Film Indonesia`s Wedding Agreement: A Romantic Entanglement with Cultural Intricacies
Wedding Agreement is a 2019 Indonesian romantic drama film starring Indah Permatasari and Refal Hady. The film tells the story of Tari, a young woman who is forced to marry a man named Bian as part of a family agreement. While initially hesitant, Tari soon finds herself falling in love with Bian, despite the challenges that come with their arranged union.
At its core, Wedding Agreement is a heartwarming love story filled with the kinds of obstacles and challenges that any budding romance must overcome. Yet, beyond the surface of its plot, the film also delves deep into the intricacies of Indonesian culture, particularly with regard to marriage and relationships.
In Indonesia, arranged marriages are still fairly common, particularly in rural areas or among traditional families. The film accurately captures some of the nuances of this cultural practice, such as the importance of family honor and reputation, the role of religion in marriage, and the way that arranged unions can help to cement business relationships between families.
However, the film also challenges some of the assumptions and stereotypes that Western audiences might have about arranged marriages. For example, Tari and Bian`s arrangement is not forced upon them – rather, they are given the option to choose whether or not to enter into the marriage. Additionally, the film portrays both Tari and Bian as fully-realized characters with their own agency and personalities, rather than as passive participants in an outdated cultural practice.
Indeed, one of the strengths of Wedding Agreement is the way that it uses its story of love and marriage as a vehicle for exploring broader themes related to Indonesian culture and society. For example, the film touches on issues around class and privilege, as Bian comes from a wealthy family while Tari is more working-class. Similarly, the film highlights the challenges faced by women in Indonesian society, particularly around the expectations placed upon them to marry and have children.
Overall, Wedding Agreement is a touching and well-crafted film that offers audiences a glimpse into the complex realities of Indonesian culture and relationships. As a professional, I can attest to the fact that the film has gained a significant following online, particularly among fans of romantic dramas and international cinema. Its success points to the growing global interest in Indonesian film and culture, as well as to the enduring appeal of timeless love stories that transcend cultural boundaries.