Backdrop preview Indonesia Calling backdrop
Indonesia Calling

Indonesia Calling (1946)

Aug 09, 1946 23m Documentary

Two weeks after the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, in August 1945, Indonesian Independence leaders proclaimed “Indonesia Merdeka!” ‘Freedom for Indonesia’ and an end to Dutch colonial rule over the Netherlands East Indies. Internationally renowned Dutch filmmaker Joris Ivens, in Australia as Film Commissioner for the Netherlands East Indies government in exile, resigned his position in protest against Dutch policy, which sought to re-impose its colonial rule. In collaboration with Indonesian activists, Chinese, Indian and Australian trade unionists, and local artists and filmmakers, Ivens made Indonesia Calling, a film documenting the crucial role of Australian trade union support in the establishment of the new Republic of Indonesia. Ivens’ film was an activist documentary; it actively contributed to the events it depicted. All those who worked on it became ‘adversely known’ to the security services.

Directed by Joris Ivens

Cast

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Peter Finch
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Peter Finch

as

Crew

Director
  • Joris Ivens
Writer
  • Catherine Duncan
  • Joris Ivens

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Thematic Analysis

Indonesia Calling represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Joris Ivens brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1946, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Indonesia Calling took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 23 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 74 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The costume department created over 493 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1946, when this film was released:
  • The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
  • Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Indonesia Calling shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Wild Window: Bejeweled Fishes, which focuses more on action than character development, Indonesia Calling subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Wet Earth and Warm People and Coach Zoran and His African Tigers explore similar territory, Indonesia Calling stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: August 9, 1946
  • Runtime: 23m

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