Falcon Pictures has announced a star-studded soundtrack for the highly anticipated cinematic adaptation of Pramoedya Ananta Noer’s historical epic Bumi Manusia (This Earth of Mankind).

The film production company has tapped renowned local musicians Iwan Fals, Once Mekel and Fiersa Besari to perform renditions of Ismail Marzuki’s “Ibu Pertiwi” (The Motherland). 

Frederica, a film producer from Falcon Pictures, said the three artists had been selected to represent the voice of their respective generations. 

“An exceptional literary work deserves the greatest artists. We came up with this concept where three popular musicians would each represent their generation,” Frederica said during a press conference on Friday as quoted by tempo.co, adding that seasoned composer Purwacaraka would score the film.

Read also: Official trailer for 'Bumi Manusia' released

The idea of using “Ibu Pertiwi” as the film’s recurring theme song was first suggested by director Hanung Bramantyo, who said the lyrics aligned with Pramoedya’s portrayal of Indonesia’s colonial past. 

“At its core, Bumi Manusia is really about how the motherland struggled to persevere under oppressive colonial rule. The song perfectly matches [the film’s narrative],” Hanung said. 

Bumi Manusia is set during the Dutch occupation of Indonesia and follows the story of Minke, the first Indonesian national to receive Dutch secondary education in Hoogere Burgerschool.

The titular main character is portrayed by Iqbaal Ramadhan, while other cast members include Syah Ine Febriyanti, Mawar De Jongh, Donny Damara and Ayu Laksmi. 

Bumi Manusia is set to hit theaters on Aug. 15. (rfa/asw)