“Levitating” Ascends at Sundance: A Mystical Indonesian Drama Blending Spirituality and Social Commentary
Indonesia’s burgeoning film scene continues to captivate international audiences, and the latest offering, “Levitating,” promises to be a standout title. Premiering in Sundance’s World Cinema Dramatic competition, the film, directed by Wregas Bhanuteja, is already generating significant buzz for its unique blend of indigenous spirituality, social critique, and captivating visuals.
“Levitating” centers around Bayu, an aspiring animal spirit channeller in a small Indonesian village, who attempts to facilitate possession at a local trance party – not one fueled by house or EDM, but by customary music. The film explores how this practice offers joy to the villagers, while simultaneously grappling with themes of tradition, progress, and the encroaching pressures of late-stage capitalism.
The film’s narrative unfolds against a backdrop of potential upheaval.Bayu’s father is contemplating selling their family home to a land developer eager to exploit the village’s sacred water source and build a hotel, a decision that threatens the community’s way of life. This conflict adds a layer of tension to Bayu’s journey as he strives to master his craft and resist the forces of modernization.
Bhanuteja’s ambitious vision is brought to life through fluid cinematography by Gunnar Nimpuno and a compelling performance by singer-actor Anggun, who portrays Asri, a shaman vocalist. According to industry observers, the film’s high production values position it for potential theatrical release in markets receptive to films like Jang jae-hyun’s “Connecting.”
“Levitating” arrives as part of a growing wave of Southeast Asian horror and supernatural films that are gaining international recognition. Titles like “Horoscope” (2023) and “the Book of Sijjin and Illiyyin” have demonstrated a keen ability to tap into local folklore and superstition,offering a distinct voice within the genre. Bhanuteja, having previously explored similar themes in “Andragogy” (2023) and “Photocopier” (2021), continues to push boundaries with his latest work.
The narrative gains momentum when Bayu encounters Laksmi (Maudy Ayunda), who offers to mentor him on his path to becoming Latas’s official spirit channeller. This mentorship,coupled with guidance from Asri,forms the core of bayu’s development as a musician and a spiritual guide.
While the third act may feel somewhat unwieldy, the film’s exploration of pleasure and community remains consistently engaging. Bhanuteja and co-writers Defi Mahendra and Alicia Angelina skillfully integrate theatrical staging, gravity-defying sequences, and even a stylized depiction of bed bugs to visualize the interior experiences of the “spirit addicts” – the trance party attendees. These formal choices, rather than being jarring, enhance the story’s emotional resonance.
Central to the film’s success are the performances of Angga Yunanda as Bayu, Maudy Ayunda as Laksmi, and Anggun as Asri. Yunanda portrays Bayu’s internal struggle with nuance, while Ayunda balances confidence with a subtle undercurrent of guilt. However, it is Anggun who truly shines, delivering a powerhouse performance that culminates in a dramatic confrontation with the developers.
“Levitating” is a production of Rekata Studio and Still Learning Pictures, with international sales handled by Rekata Studio ([email protected]). The film’s producers include Amalia Fitriani, Iman Usman, and Siera Tamihardja, and the creative team features production designers Ong Hari Wahyu and Edy Wibowo, editor Ahmad Yuniardi, and composer Yennu Ariendra. The main cast also includes Chicco Kurniawan,Bryan Domani,and Indra Birowo.
As Southeast Asian cinema continues to gain prominence on the global stage, “Levitating” stands as a compelling example of the region’s creative vitality and its ability to tell stories that are both deeply rooted in local culture and universally resonant.
