Breathtaking drama and raw emotion: ‘Cubs’ redefines coming-of-age storytelling

Unearthing a tale in a mining town

Indonesian cinema takes a bold step with the upcoming coming-of-age drama “Cubs,” set against the complex backdrop of a gold mining town. This ambitious project, presented at the Taiwan Creative Content Fest (TCCF), explores the convoluted interplay of love, growth, and turbulent societal conflict.

An intimate look at Gul’s journey

The heart of “Cubs” lies in the character of Gul, a teenager navigating his journey through maturity in a community entangled in stark conflict over land and resources. Writer-director Riza reflects on the origins of the film, stating, “I conceived the initial idea for ‘Cubs’ back in 2007. Nearly two decades later, the growing economy has reignited land and environmental disputes in various regions, often marked by military repression.”

Crafting the narrative: from cub to tiger

The narrative arc of Gul’s transformation symbolizes much more than a simple coming-of-age tale. “‘Cubs’ traces Gul’s evolution from a cub to a tiger,” Riza elaborates. The film meticulously builds on traditional themes of a boy confronting overwhelming challenges, reminiscent of the David versus Goliath story. “Violence is integral to the characters, propelling inevitable and intense climactic confrontations,” he says. Aiming for realism, Riza plans to blend performances from both professional and non-professional actors, with shooting set in a genuine gold mining town in Java.

Breathing life into a vision: technical and creative prowess

Executive producer Lesmana’s collaboration with Riza has been pivotal in shaping “Cubs.” Partnering with producer Ifa Isfansyah and Forka Films, the team aims to bring forth a raw, contemporary narrative that remains highly accessible to its audience. Lesmana articulates this vision, describing the project as “an authentic yet modern form,” which stands to resonate deeply with viewers.

The journey ahead: development and aspirations

Currently in development and financing stages, “Cubs” aims to commence production in Q1 2026, with an anticipated release in Q1 or Q2 2027. The TCCF serves as a platform for the team to seek investment, co-production opportunities, sales partnerships, and post-production support. Isfansyah highlights their interest in exploring 16mm film processing capabilities in Taiwan, given the lack of film laboratory facilities in Indonesia.

The minds behind the magic: a wealth of experience

The creative force behind “Cubs” brings unparalleled experience and a storied legacy in Indonesian cinema. Lesmana is credited with revitalizing the local film industry with the iconic “Sherina’s Adventure” in 2000. Isfansyah, the founder of Forka Films and the Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival, recently enjoyed success with the Netflix series “Cigarette Girl.” Riza’s films have graced the screens of major festivals including Berlinale, Tokyo, Busan, and Rotterdam, with “Sherina’s Adventure 2” recently becoming a smash hit at the Indonesian box office.

Forka Films’ festival success

Forka Films, known for its critically acclaimed productions, continues to build on its legacy of festival success. Notable works include “The Seen and Unseen” (Toronto 2017), “Memories of My Body” (Venice Orizzonti 2018), and “Yuni” (Toronto Platform Prize). These selections affirm their commitment to creating profound and impactful cinema.

Reflecting on the broader impact

The sustained acclaim and the intricate storytelling of Forka Films’ productions highlight a consistent effort to mirror societal issues and the complex human experience within their narratives. “Cubs” is poised to continue this tradition, offering a rich tapestry that intertwines personal growth with broader social themes.

By merging technical brilliance and emotional depth, “Cubs” exemplifies a new era of filmmaking in Indonesian cinema. It invites audiences to delve into the raw and poignant story of Gul, encouraging reflection on larger societal conflicts through the eyes of a young boy.

Share this fascinating glimpse into Indonesia’s evolving cinema landscape on social media and stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking film.