An Indonesian version of "Stand by Me."
The "haves" versus the "have-nots." The have-nots showcased here are a group of students from low income families who attend a Muslim school struggling to keep its doors open. The haves are the students at a neighboring school whose parents are much better off economically due to being employed at the tin mining company that sponsors their school.
The have-nots, despite their lack of resources, come together to achieve both artistic and scholastic success in their competitions with the haves.
This film, a bit overly sentimental (and long), could use some focused editing. You do leave the theater with an uplifted spirit. However, this film is ineligible for our award as it has apparently already won a special mention from SIGNIS at the recent Hong Kong film festival.
This was my first viewing at this year's festival. A bit uncomfortable as it was shown in the black tent at 3 p.m. and the portable air-conditioners weren't up to the heat. The temperature inside the tent was 33 degrees Centigrade...
