Controversies over film, flag could dent Indonesia's global image

Analysts warn the cases could overshadow nation's 80th independence day milestone

- Hariz Baharudin

Just days before Indonesia's 80th independence day on Aug 17, a much-hyped patriotic animated film ridiculed for its poor quality has become the latest flashpoint in a debate over national identity and pride.

The criticism of Merah Putih: One For All comes on top of a separate recent row over the use of a popular Japanese anime series' pirate flag alongside the national flag in various protests across the country.

Analysts warn that the two controversies threaten to overshadow the eight-decade milestone and dent Indonesia's image at a moment meant to project national pride. They also reflect how a more centralised political climate is influencing the way national symbols are created, used and policed.

The film, whose title refers to the red-and-white national flag, was billed as an animated feature with a national theme. It was produced by local production house Perfiki Kreasindo and directed by filmmaker Endiarto, who like many Indonesians goes by one name. Released in cinemas on Aug 14, it tells the story of eight children on a mission to retrieve the national flag before independence day.

Its creators said it is meant to inspire national unity. Instead, it united critics of the work, who swiftly panned it after its trailer was launched in early August. Viewers mocked the stiff animation, a parrot that sounded like a monkey, and likened the movie poster to pirated DVD covers.

Allegations that low-cost online 3D models were used cast doubt on the film's reported 6.7 billion rupiah (S$530,000) budget, prompting Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar to clarify that no ministry funding or promotional support was provided to make the movie.