Bung Karno Month Celebrated with 'Ghost in the Cell' Screening; Once Emphasizes Art's Critical Role

Once Mekel, a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives and head of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle's (PDIP) National Culture Agency (BKN), emphasized the significance of expressive and critical spaces within cinematic works. He spoke at a screening of Joko Anwar's film 'Ghost in the Cell' at Metropole XXI in Jakarta on Sunday, June 7, 2026. The event was organized by Kulturanesia as part of the commemoration of Bung Karno Month.

Mekel explained the choice of Anwar's film, citing two primary messages. Firstly, he stated that BKN, through Kulturanesia, aims to champion and provide tangible support for Indonesian filmmaking. Secondly, the event underscored the importance of freedom of expression, recognizing such spaces as vital for artists.

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This film has strength beyond its good cinematography, good script, and good acting from the cast; it also contains critical spaces that we can observe.

"This film has strength beyond its good cinematography, good script, and good acting from the cast; it also contains critical spaces that we can observe," Mekel remarked. He expressed hope that the screening would ignite the creative spirit of the younger generation, enabling them to understand and carry forward the legacy of artistic movements.

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Honestly, I really, really appreciate it.

Aming, an actor in 'Ghost in the Cell,' praised the film's selection for the celebration, viewing it as concrete support for national creative works. "Honestly, I really, really appreciate it," he said.

Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno also attended and commended the film's success, noting its international reach. "Based on data since its release on April 16, the film has garnered nearly 4 million viewers. What's extraordinary is its international achievement, with distribution rights sold in 148 countries. This is an incredible accomplishment. This is what makes Indonesia an anomaly," Karno stated. He connected Bung Karno's views on art and film, explaining that Bung Karno saw them as more than mere entertainment, referencing his creation of theatrical plays during his exile.

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Based on data since its release on April 16, the film has garnered nearly 4 million viewers. What's extraordinary is its international achievement, with distribution rights sold in 148 countries. This is an incredible accomplishment. This is what makes Indonesia an anomaly.