Film 'Desember Jani' Entirely Made by Women

Indonesian production house Palari Films is set to release its latest drama, "Desember Jani," a film distinguished by its entirely female creative team, from front to back. Known for its bold and experimental portfolio, Palari Films aims to deliver a story that delves into the complexities of family relationships with its characteristic depth.

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It wasn't a concept, not at all. If you ask that, it's immediately no. It wasn't a concept, not at all.

The narrative of "Desember Jani" promises to immerse viewers in the emotional journeys and conflicts experienced by women across four generations. The domestic drama is slated for release in cinemas this December. This unique production has sparked discussion, with many speculating it was a deliberate strategy to feature an all-female crew.

However, Palari Films producer Meiske Taurisia clarified that the formation of the crew was organic. "It wasn't a concept, not at all," she stated in South Jakarta on Thursday, May 21, 2026. Taurisia explained that the project was never designed with a specific gender focus. "We never designed from the beginning that we had to make a film about women. It never crossed my mind to design something based on gender," she added.

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We never designed from the beginning that we had to make a film about women. It never crossed my mind to design something based on gender.

Despite the organic development, Taurisia acknowledged the project as a significant milestone for Palari Films. "Personally, during my time at Palari, I've never worked with this many female colleagues. Literally, the director, writers, cast, and everyone are women, so this is something new for me and Palari Films," she said. The collaboration reportedly stemmed from admiration for director Ariani Darmawan's previous work, leading to a shared vision for a character-driven film requiring creators with a keen sense for complex emotional relationships.

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Personally, during my time at Palari, I've never worked with this many female colleagues. Literally, the director, writers, cast, and everyone are women, so this is something new for me and Palari Films.

For Ariani Darmawan, "Desember Jani" marks her feature film debut. "I am married, I have children, and when I had the opportunity to make a feature film, what was certainly on my mind was something close to me. How to be a mother, while still having parents who need attention," she shared. The search for a suitable screenwriter led them to Cyntha Hariadi, recognized for her ability to craft vibrant and layered narratives. This project also signifies Hariadi's feature screenplay debut.

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I am married, I have children, and when I had the opportunity to make a feature film, what was certainly on my mind was something close to me. How to be a mother, while still having parents who need attention.