Sur (Shenina Syawalita Cinnamon) is a first-year computer student who joins a college theatrical club, headed by Anggun (Dea Panendra). Even though she’s timid and shy, Sur built a strong bond with each and every one of the group members, including the playwright Rama (Giulio Parengkuan) and production designer Tariq (Jerome Kurnia).
After winning the top award in a prestigious competition, the club had a rave party at Rama's place. Sur passed out from being overly intoxicated, and the following morning, he awoke at home with no recollection of what had happened. She then realized she was late for her scholarship report, which was her one and only ticket to pursuing her dream of becoming a website developer.
It was during her presentation that she learned she had been disqualified for a scholarship grant because of her behavior at the party, which had been mysteriously posted on her social media.
Sur believes she is not reckless enough to share such images on the internet. So she asked the assistance of his childhood friend, Amin (Chicco Kurniawan), to figure out what happened. Even though it’s illegal, the two worked together to hack into the phones of every member of the college theatrical club. During their investigation, they discovered that there were even more nefarious things going on besides Sur's case.
The world should pay greater attention to ASEAN films because most of them are unwavering in their message on social injustices. Take, for example, Wregas Bhanuteja's debut feature film "Photocopier," an Indonesian film that takes a stand against women's mistreatment, sexual abuse, toxic family culture, and government incompetence.
In this film, there is so much weight and tragedy in the narrative that, despite its relative stillness, there is a hook that will not allow you to forget about it.
The concept is straightforward and simple. A young woman found herself at her home with an upside-down shirt after a rave party with no recollection of what happened. That scene alone taps directly into the fears and anxieties of most people about being taken advantage of, which is especially frightening in Asian countries, where culture is extremely conservative and morals are upheld to the highest standard.
The only issue with "Photocopier" is the set up; it’s too long and meandering. A good chunk of the run time was spent on unnecessary subplots. However, it's a rollercoaster ride to the finish line once everything has been laid down.
Sur becomes increasingly aware of the horrifying events unfolding beneath her current predicament. What's even scarier is that she's not the only one who's been caught up in all these shenanigans. And instead of being heard, she is humiliated by the same people who she is pleading with for help. Even her own parents dismissed her.
It soon becomes significantly more intriguing. The larger image becomes clearer as the narrative continues to grow and dig deeper into other issues like victim shaming and the power imbalance between class and gender.
If it weren't for Shenina Cinnamon's committed performance, "Photocopier" wouldn't be nearly as engaging as it is. She bursts with emotions as she plays every confrontation moment with the utmost intensity. She’s normally cast in supporting roles, but with this film, she makes a name for herself as an actress who deserves to be recognized by many. Lukman Sardi, who plays Sur’s father, delivers yet another outstanding performance in this film as well. He has been part of excellent Indonesian movies such as "27 Steps of May" and "Gundala" but in "Photocopier" he plays a supporting role with minimal screen time. Even if his appearances are brief, he steals every scene he appears in.
Overall, "Photocopier" is q hard-hitting case study on a variety of important themes and issues that society is currently grappling with. Despite the fact that it’s slow at times, it is a realistic and pressing watch.
4.5/5
