Culture 2 min read By Trevor Kendall
Palme d’Or winner Fjord opens Jakarta World Cinema festival
Cristian Mungiu’s Palme d’Or-winning film Fjord opened the fifth edition of Jakarta World Cinema, while Romanian cinematographer Tudor Vladimir Panduru led a masterclass during the festival.
Cristian Mungiu’s Palme d’Or winner «Fjord» opened the fifth edition of Jakarta World Cinema at CGV Grand Indonesia, giving the Indonesian festival one of the most prestigious titles on the international circuit as its launch film.
Dan Adrian Bălănescu, Romania’s ambassador to Indonesia, said he was proud of the film. He noted that «Fjord» is Romania’s submission for the international feature Oscar at the 2027 Academy Awards, and he expressed hope that the picture would speak to local audiences in Jakarta.
Alongside the screening, cinematographer Tudor Vladimir Panduru led a masterclass as part of the festival programme. Panduru, whose work is closely associated with the Romanian New Wave, shared his approach to camera work and visual storytelling with attendees interested in filmmaking craft.
The presence of a Romanian opening film and a Romanian-led masterclass underlines the growing cultural exchange between Romania and Indonesia. Diplomatic representation at the opening signalled official backing for the cinematic dialogue between the two countries.
Jakarta World Cinema has positioned itself as a platform for international arthouse and festival titles, bringing acclaimed productions from around the world to Indonesian audiences. Opening the fifth edition with a Palme d’Or winner places the festival among the leading venues for global independent cinema in Southeast Asia.
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