Name: Photocopier
Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Released: 2021-10-08T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Shenina Cinnamon, Lutesha, Chicco Kurniawan, Jerome Kurnia, Dea Panendra

The opening scene of Wregas Bhanuteja’s Photocopier lingers on a photocopy machine humming in the background, its rhythmic clatter mirroring the frantic pulse of Sur’s life unraveling. When photos from a party cost her a scholarship, she teams up with a photocopy worker to uncover what really happened that night. This Indonesian crime mystery drama, co-written and directed by Bhanuteja in his feature-length debut, isn’t content to be just another thriller; it wants to be a social commentary wrapped in suspense.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to capture the gritty, everyday life of Indonesia from a foreigner’s perspective. The cinematography, though not groundbreaking, effectively immerses viewers in Sur’s world. The use of natural light and candid shots of Jakarta’s streets adds authenticity, grounding the mystery in a tangible setting. The slow-burn suspense is skillfully built through clever editing and strategic pacing, keeping viewers engaged even when the plot meanders.

Shenina Cinnamon delivers a compelling performance as Sur, embodying the character’s desperation and resilience with subtlety. Lutesha, playing Farah, provides a strong emotional anchor, while Chicco Kurniawan as Amin brings a quiet intensity to his role. The supporting cast, including Jerome Kurnia, Dea Panendra, Giulio Parengkuan, Ruth Marini, and Lukman Sardi, all contribute to the film’s authentic atmosphere.

However, Photocopier stumbles in its execution of the mystery itself. The plot twist that occurs within the first ten minutes feels abrupt and unearned, potentially alienating viewers who prefer a more gradual reveal. While the film’s exploration of social issues is commendable, it sometimes overshadows the central mystery, leading to a lack of focus. Additionally, the resolution of the story feels rushed, leaving some loose ends that could have been tied up with more careful plotting.

The originality of Photocopier lies in its unique blend of genres and its fresh perspective on Indonesian society. However, this ambition also leads to some unevenness in tone and pacing. The film’s genre fit is solid, as it successfully merges drama, mystery, and thriller elements into a cohesive whole.

In the end, Photocopier is a promising debut that showcases Wregas Bhanuteja’s potential as a director.