Film Tjoet Nyak Dien

Film Tjoet Nyak Dien is a 1988 Indonesian historical drama film directed by Eros Djarot. It tells the story of Cut Nyak Dien, a female leader and hero of the Acehnese resistance against the Dutch colonialism in the late 19th century. The film won several awards at the 1988 Indonesian Film Festival, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress, and Best Screenplay1. It was also the first Indonesian film to be screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 19892.

The film begins with the death of Teuku Umar, the husband of Cut Nyak Dien and a prominent rebel leader, in an ambush by the Dutch forces. Cut Nyak Dien, played by Christine Hakim, assumes the leadership of the resistance and inspires the people of Aceh to continue the fight for their independence. She is aided by Pang Laot, a loyal commander and friend, played by Piet Burnama. The film depicts the struggles and sacrifices of the Acehnese rebels, as well as the dilemmas and conflicts of the Dutch soldiers, who are led by Captain Veltman, played by Rudy Wowor. The film ends with the betrayal of Pang Laot, who surrenders Cut Nyak Dien to the Dutch out of pity for her poor health and the suffering of the Acehnese people.

The film explores several themes, such as nationalism, heroism, feminism, colonialism, and war. The film portrays Cut Nyak Dien as a strong and courageous woman, who defies the traditional gender roles and leads the men in the battlefield. She is also a devout Muslim, who relies on her faith and values to guide her actions. The film shows the contrast between the Acehnese culture and the Dutch culture, and how they clash and influence each other. The film also depicts the brutality and futility of war, and how it affects both sides of the conflict.

The film focuses on the character development of Cut Nyak Dien, who undergoes several changes throughout the film. She starts as a loving wife and mother, who supports her husband’s cause. She then becomes a fierce and charismatic leader, who rallies the people of Aceh to resist the Dutch occupation. She faces many challenges and losses, such as the death of her husband, her son, and her comrades. She also suffers from blindness and arthritis, which impair her mobility and vision. She eventually becomes isolated and disillusioned, as she refuses to compromise or surrender. She is betrayed by her closest ally, Pang Laot, who believes that she is too stubborn and unrealistic.

The film also develops the character of Pang Laot, who is loyal and devoted to Cut Nyak Dien. He respects and admires her as a leader and a friend. He follows her orders and protects her from harm. He also tries to persuade her to negotiate with the Dutch, or at least to retreat and rest. He becomes conflicted and torn, as he sees the suffering and despair of the Acehnese people, and the futility of their resistance. He ultimately decides to betray Cut Nyak Dien, hoping to end the war and save her life.

The film has a strong and lasting impact on the audience, as it portrays a historical figure and a national hero in a realistic and human way. The film does not glorify or romanticize the war, but rather shows the harsh and tragic realities of it. The film also challenges the stereotypes and prejudices about women, Muslims, and Indonesians, and presents them as complex and diverse individuals. The film is a powerful and moving tribute to the spirit and legacy of Cut Nyak Dien and the Acehnese people.

The film is well-directed by Eros Djarot, who uses various cinematic techniques to create an engaging and immersive experience for the audience. The film has a rich and authentic production design, which recreates the historical setting and atmosphere of Aceh in the late 19th century. The film also has a beautiful and haunting soundtrack, composed by Idris Sardi, which enhances the mood and emotion of the film. The film has a solid and compelling screenplay, written by Eros Djarot, which balances the historical facts and the artistic vision of the film. The film has a remarkable and memorable performance by Christine Hakim, who portrays Cut Nyak Dien with grace and intensity. She captures the nuances and emotions of her character, and conveys her strength and vulnerability. The film also has a strong and convincing performance by Piet Burnama, who plays Pang Laot with sincerity and complexity. He expresses his loyalty and conflict, and his eventual betrayal. The film also has a good and credible performance by Rudy Wowor, who plays Captain Veltman with professionalism and humanity. He shows his duty and dilemma, and his respect and admiration for Cut Nyak Dien.

The film has many strengths, such as its historical accuracy, its artistic quality, its social relevance, and its emotional impact. The film is based on extensive research and documentation, and it follows the historical events and characters closely. The film is also a masterpiece of Indonesian cinema, and it showcases the talent and creativity of the Indonesian filmmakers and actors. The film is also a significant and influential work of art, and it raises awareness and appreciation of the Indonesian history and culture. The film is also a touching and inspiring story, and it evokes various feelings and thoughts in the audience.

The film has few weaknesses, such as its length, its pace, and its accessibility. The film is quite long, running for 150 minutes, and it may be tedious or boring for some viewers. The film is also slow-paced, and it may lack action or excitement for some viewers. The film is also not very accessible, and it may be difficult or confusing for some viewers. The film uses the Indonesian language and the Acehnese dialect, and it may require subtitles or translations for some viewers. The film also assumes some prior knowledge and interest in the Indonesian history and culture, and it may not appeal or relate to some viewers.

The film is highly recommended for anyone who is interested in the Indonesian history and culture, or who is interested in the themes and issues of the film. The film is a valuable and educational source of information and insight, and it offers a different and unique perspective on the colonial history and the national identity of Indonesia. The film is also a captivating and rewarding work of art, and it offers a high-quality and enjoyable cinematic experience. The film is also a meaningful and motivational story, and it offers a positive and powerful message of courage and resilience. The film is a must-see for anyone who appreciates and respects the life and legacy of Cut Nyak Dien and the Acehnese people.