Indonesia's animation scene is at a pivotal moment, and Visinema, the studio behind the record-breaking animated film "Jumbo," is leading the charge. They're not just aiming for another box-office hit; they're advocating for a fundamental shift in how the industry operates. At the JAFF Market, Visinema's CEO, Herry B. Salim, passionately urged the Indonesian entertainment sector to prioritize long-term intellectual property (IP) creation. He believes it's time to move beyond one-off projects and embrace a sustainable creative ecosystem. But here's where it gets interesting... Salim is calling for stronger government support to help local players compete on a global scale.
Salim explained that creating evergreen IPs is about more than just selling a product; it's about crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. He envisions a future where the industry focuses on developing intellectual property, rather than simply producing individual films.
During a mini talk show at the JAFF Market, Salim discussed how mainstream film products are becoming, even comparing them to Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG). He anticipates that the way people consume these film products will continue to evolve.
And this is the part most people miss... Salim emphasized the importance of not just consuming foreign films but also daring to compete globally. He questioned the benefits of solely consuming international content, highlighting the need for Indonesian creators to showcase their own stories on the world stage.
Salim strongly believes in the power of IP creation and is seeking government support to make it happen. He pointed to Malaysia's animation industry as a successful example, where the Digital Economy Corporation offers grant programs for digital content creation, including animated films. He questioned how Indonesia can flourish and compete without similar support systems. This raises a crucial question: Is government funding essential for the growth of a local animation industry?
Adding to the excitement, Visinema revealed a teaser for their upcoming film, "Na Willa (2026)," at the JAFF Market. The team behind "Jumbo" is reuniting for this project, promising to deliver another heartwarming story. The film's tagline, "For us, our children, and the inner child within us," reflects Visinema's core values. According to Salim, it's all about storytelling that truly matters. What do you think? Is Visinema on the right track with its focus on IP and storytelling? Do you agree with Salim's call for government support? Share your thoughts in the comments!
