Released in 2014, Selamat Pagi, Malam is a film that offers an insightful look into the harsh reality of Jakarta, Indonesia. As the capital city, Jakarta is often associated with its bustling metropolitan life, traffic congestion, and vibrant nightlife. The movie explores the lives of three women who are struggling with their own set of problems, despite coming from different backgrounds.
Sinopsis
Gia, played by Adinia Wirasti, is a 32-year-old woman who has just returned from New York. She contacts her old friend, Naomi, and they meet up at a posh bar called Lilo. Despite feeling awkward at first, they start to catch up on old times, and Gia insists that Naomi accompanies her on a walk to explore Jakarta. They wander around the city, indulging in street food and reminiscing about their past.
Meanwhile, Indri (Ina Panggabean) is a 24-year-old gym attendant who is yearning to live the life of an upper-class woman. She meets up with a rich man named David through an online dating app and decides to dress seductively in a cheap dress and high heels to meet him. David turns out to be very different from what she expected – he’s middle-aged, sleazy, and arrogant. After a disagreement, David leaves Indri stranded at Lilo without paying for her food. Feeling helpless and alone, she meets Faisal, a server at the bar, who comforts her. They end up spending the night at Hotel Lone Star, a room David had booked for them.
Ci Surya (Dayu Wijanto), the third woman, is a middle-aged aunt who is grieving over the death of her husband. She comes across a note with a phone number left in Hotel Lone Star and decides to investigate. There, she finds out that her husband had an affair with a singer who goes by the name of Sofia. She hires the gigolo who works there to sleep with her as an act of revenge.
Review
The movie effectively highlights the common problems that many people face in Jakarta every day. Each character has her distinct dilemmas, all of which come to a head on the same night. Gia, for instance, experiences reverse culture shock, realizing how much Jakarta has changed while she was away. As for Indri, she feels inadequate and tries to prove herself by living a life of luxury. It’s easy to relate to Ci Surya’s grief and rage upon discovering her husband’s infidelity.
Selamat Pagi, Malam realistically portrays the daily life of Jakarta with all its challenges. In doing so, it delivers an honest and impactful message. The movie also showcases the city’s visual appeal through its stunning cinematography.
Conclusion
Selamat Pagi, Malam is a well-crafted movie that sheds light on the struggles of everyday people in Jakarta. The three women’s stories are intertwined, yet each one has her unique interpretation of the city. The film offers a relatable narrative that’s easy to follow, and the characters’ struggles accurately portray the harsh reality of living in a big city. It’s a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand the complexities of Jakarta’s urban life.
