Last year, in 2022, the film industry was slowly recovering. As the economic was started to get better after the pandemic effect, cinema businesses were starting back to get into normal situation and delayed films also started to get their slot.
After the dark tunnel across 2020 and 2021 for cinema industry due to the pandemic COVID-19, it’s fair to say that 2022 was far better for movie goers especially for those who like to go to the cinema. Health protocol was still applied but here we are anyway in a better situation to enjoy our favourite films with our loved ones.
This time we want to list our favourite films from the second half of 2022. The films listed below are those which aired in cinemas and streaming services in Indonesia. We do not list the films that were not airing in Indonesia.
Decision to Leave
The film tells the story about Hae-Joon, a seasoned detective, investigates the suspicious death of a man on a top of a mountain. During his investigation, he begins to suspect Seo-rae, the deceased’s wife, while being unsettled by his attraction to her.
There are trademarks of Park Chan-wook’s films that make his film unique and captivating. Most of Park’s films are shockingly violence, have the element of eccentric portrayal of love, and complex narratives that employ surprising twists. Decision to Leave is is another Park’s dedication for his trademark that certainly would entertain his fans.
Broker
The film follows two brokers who sell orphaned infants, circumventing the bureaucracy of legal adoption, to affluent couples who can’t have children of their own. After an infant’s mother surprises the duo by returning to ensure her child finds a good home, the three embark on a journey to find the right couple, building an unlikely family of their own.
Following the success of Shoplifters by the same director, the film is highlighting the same strength as Shoplifters. The ability to unveil sentimental plot without being overly dramatic. The film presents great plot with quirky humour and dramatic elements mixed in a perfect balance.
Cek Toko Sebelah 2
Cek Toko Sebelah 2 is taking place years after when the first Cek Toko Sebelah end. Yohan is inheriting his father’s store to become a photo studio. Ayu is a full-time baker with her own store. Erwin is still a corporate worker, and Koh Afuk is now enjoying his hobbies and life after his store no longer operating.
Cek Toko Sebelah 2 was meticulously crafted in the story-crafting and also problem details. The comedy is always on-point and the drama is not just melancholic but also meaningful. It is fair to say that Cek Toko Sebelah 2 is a perfect lowkey romance that is more intimate than the previous film.
Putu Radar Bahurekso
p.radar@monsterjournal.com
