Yuni

Yuni is a tale as old as time; a strong-minded woman must subdue her will before the altar of patriarchy.

What seems like a simple story about a teenage girl in her daily life, film gradually evolves into a multi-layered commentary with a very resonance depth.

Kamila Andini's naturalistic and sensitive approach not only brings authenticity to the film's sometimes heartbreaking revelation but also delivers some genuine and heartfelt moments.

Obsessed with the color purple and confident in her dreams, Yuni is close to graduating from high school. Her grades are good, her parents supportive, and her future bright. This is until the unexpected and unwanted marriage proposals begin. Some are from total strangers and much older men. Marriage is a "blessing" people insist. Maybe so, but there seems to be no other path for women to choose, or a way for them to choose who they want to walk with. "I used to think I can do anything in life," Yuni says "now I don't anymore." She doesn't know what she wants, but it doesn't make her future dark. Together with a sympathetic boyfriend and a strong female mentor, Yuni plots her path in life. But it may not be up to her.

In Indonesia there are few options for women other than marriage and it is lucky if she has any say in the matter at all. This personal, intimate, and enthralling portrait of a young woman's emotional life reveals these constraints. The camera work is playful, moody, and colorful, like Yuni herself. Sounds and scenes reveal her emotional state. When Yuni is frustrated there is constant construction noise in the background or rainfall. When she is happy and feeling free she is at the seashore or riding her purple moped. Yuni's vital message is that girls are not allowed to participate fully in the world, but they need to.

World premiere seen at the Toronto international film festival. Winner of the platform prize.

Found myself captivated by the sheer brilliance since the beginning. Yuni isn't just a film; it's a journey into the depths of human experience, a visual and emotional feast that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.

The storytelling is nothing short of poetic, weaving a tapestry of emotions that resonated with every fiber of my being. The characters felt like old friends, their struggles and triumphs becoming my own. The script is a work of art, seamlessly blending moments of laughter, heartache, and profound introspection.

The cinematography is breathtaking, each frame a carefully crafted tableau that captures the essence of the narrative. The play of light and shadow, coupled with stunning visuals, elevates Yuni to a level of visual poetry rarely seen in contemporary cinema. Every scene is a visual symphony that transports you into a world where reality and fantasy dance in perfect harmony.

The performances by the cast are nothing short of extraordinary. The actors breathe life into their characters, delivering performances that are both nuanced and deeply moving. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, creating a cinematic alchemy that transcends the screen.

What sets Yuni apart is its ability to provoke introspection and leave a lasting impact. Long after the credits rolled, the film lingered in my thoughts, prompting me to reflect on the complexities of life, love, and the human condition. It's a rare gem that not only entertains but also leaves you with a profound sense of connection to the world around you.

In the grand tapestry of cinema, Yuni stands as a shining star. It's a testament to the power of storytelling, a visual and emotional odyssey that will resonate with audiences for years to come. This is not just a movie; it's an experience that transcends the boundaries of the silver screen. Yuni is a masterpiece that deserves every accolade it receives-an unforgettable journey into the heart and soul of storytelling.

What I like about Yuni, it feels honest with the dialogues, dynamics, and the characters. It doesn't shy away from the fact that they are not knowing technology, the contradiction between religious and cultural values, the merit of education in the coastline society. Rather than preaching, Yuni ask us to just follow and feel what she feels.

The honesty allows Yuni to build itself by putting little piece of sequences (e.g. Marriage proposals, friend's weddings, inclusion of side characters), which resembles life in its organic fashion. This type of narration risks to be dragging and boring, but Yuni with its simplicity manage us not only to engage until the end, but to care for the characters.

The ending is a little letdown since it's turning different than the whole vibe of the movie (hence 9/10), but I feel like it's an honor to the girls who already endure the reality. I recommend Yuni for those who enjoy movies like Siti, Perempuan Punya Cerita, Berbagi Suami, and Dua Garis Biru.

Indonesia's official entry to 2022's Oscars is a very good coming-of-age. It's simple yet powerful and sensational. It tackles interesting important topics like sexual awakening, virginity, early marriages, girls' dreams and access to education in a conservative traditional society. But it feels incoherent and distant sometimes due to having too many subjects to portray, it doesn't take one clear path to follow.