Project Link
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1307K86SlhRb_zNCTrionOrocdabcDVGL/view

A Mute Ballad

In 1975, a decade after the harrowing events of the 1965 suppression, Rahardja, receives an unexpected visit from his nephew Guntur. The weight of the past hangs heavy in the air as Guntur confronts Rahardja about the death of his beloved brother, Kresna. Guntur, armed with the knowledge that Rahardja was one of the security officers involved in the execution, accuses him with fervor, urging Rahardja to confront his remorse and accept responsibility. However, Rahardja remains resolute in his denial, refusing to acknowledge any trace of guilt.

In the 1965 flashback, Kresna writes heartfelt lyrics on a fragile piece of paper. But Rahardja, driven by a misguided sense of duty, snatches away the piece of papaer. As Kresna's desperate cries for his uncle's intervention reverberate through the air, Rahardja turns away, unable to witness the brutal death of his nephew. It is only later, consumed by regret and overwhelming grief, that Rahardja reads the lyrics Kresna had penned, their profound beauty now forever tainted by the knowledge of what was lost.

  • Laurent Sindhu
    Director
    Memoriam (2023) Pungkasan (2022)
  • Gabriella Alma Titaningrum
    Writer
  • Mardatila Dwinta Riandari
    Producer
  • Endang Rumeksa
    Key Cast
    "Raharja"
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Genres:
    Drama
  • Runtime:
    10 minutes 1 second
  • Completion Date:
    July 26, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    1,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Indonesia
  • Country of Filming:
    Indonesia
  • Language:
    Indonesian
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    4:3
  • Film Color:
    Black & White
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Jakarta Institute of Arts
  • Brawijaya Film Festival
    Malang, East Java
    Indonesia
    October 30, 2024
    Best Picture: Fiction & Best Director: Fiction
  • Festival Film Bogor
    Bogor, West Java
    Indonesia
    November 30, 2023
    Best Art: Fiction & Best Cinematography
  • Universitas Indonesia Film Festival
    Depok, West Java
    Indonesia
    October 10, 2023
    Best Directing
Director Biography - Laurent Sindhu

Laurent Sindhu is an undergraduate film student at the Jakarta Institute of Arts, currently based in Tangerang Selatan. Despite his young age, he has already directed several films, including Pungkasan (2023), Surya Gemilang (2022), and Nyanyian Bisu (2023), both for his assignments and personal projects. He is also familiar with theatre, having already co-directed a theatre production with Teater Pagupon UI. He is currently working as an intern Assistant Director at Visinema Studios. With a focus on human-centric films that delve deep into the complexities of the human experience, Laurent brings a unique perspective to his work. He is deeply passionate about storytelling and approaches
each project with an unwavering dedication to his craft.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

In "A Mute Ballad," my aim is to delve into the intricate dynamics between guilt, the relentless passage of time, and the transformative power of embracing one's fate. The film serves as a contemplative exploration of these themes, inviting audiences to reflect on their own experiences and perspectives.

Guilt, as a central thread, evolves and shifts over time, molding the characters' lives and influencing their choices. We witness the weight of guilt carried by the protagonists, their internal struggles, and the impact it has on their relationships and sense of self.

The concept of time plays a vital role, acting as both a healer and a revealer. It gradually unfolds the consequences of past actions, exposing the true nature of guilt and its effect on the human psyche. As the characters confront their past, they are confronted with the choice of either denying or embracing their fate.

The film aims to inspire introspection and empathy, prompting viewers to question their own relationship with guilt and the wisdom that can emerge from accepting one's destiny. By immersing audiences in the characters' emotional journeys, we hope to ignite a deeper understanding of the complexities of guilt and the potential for growth and redemption that lies within embracing one's fate.

Through "A Mute Ballad," I aspire to create an experience that resonates with audiences, leaving them with a greater appreciation for the Interconnectedness of guilt, time, and the profound significance of embracing one's fate.