Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival (JAFF) is a premier Asian film festival in Indonesia focusing on the development of Asian cinema. This festival not only contributes to introducing Asian cinema to a wider public in Indonesia, but it also provides a space for the intersection of many sectors such as arts, culture, and tourism. JAFF started after the 5.9 on the Richter scale earthquake that devastated the city of Jogja in 2006. In the midst of a crisis, the emergence of JAFF was one of the motors of the JOGJA BANGKIT movement. Adapting to crises is one of the keys to JAFF's consistency. Thus, when the Covid-19 pandemic began to attack, JAFF was still present and found new forms, as a response to the crisis that was hit. Due to its existence and consistency, in 2015 JAFF was recognized as a movement that focuses on the advancement of Asian and Indonesian cinema by various parties and was selected by Moviemaker.com as one of “the 25 Coolest Film Festivals in The World”.

This year, in the 18th edition, JAFF chooses “Luminescence” as its theme. This theme underscores the importance of having a more inclusive perspective in looking at Asian cinema from different origins. The distinctive light of Asian cinema arises from its own characteristics, rather than by being constructed by an external force.  As such, many accolades received by Asian cinemas in various international film festivals should be understood as a sincere recognition of distinctive nature of Asian cinema.  Furthermore, the luminescence of Asian cinema can perhaps be perceived as a source of meaningful value which resonates with the cultural wisdoms for people in the region and beyond. Overall, the new hope of Asian cinema might not come from the dominant centers which we are familiar with, but not necessarily offering a fresh and authentic perspective. Instead, it comes from unexpected places where distinctiveness is preserved and valued. More than the hidden gems, Asian cinemas continue to shine by their own characters and beauty throughout the world.

For more information, log on to https://jaff-filmfest.org/