TheJakartaPost
Please Update your browser
Your browser is out of date, and may not be compatible with our website. A list of the most popular web browsers can be found below.
Just click on the icons to get to the download page.
Film adaptation of Eka Kurniawan’s novel sets sights on global market
The production of a film adaptation of novel Vengeance is Mine, All Others Pay Cash by award-winning author Eka Kurniawan has begun with an eye on the international audience.
Change Size
First look: Award-winning writer Eka Kurniawan (left) poses for a photo as he takes part in the production of his novel's film adaptation by Palari Films, alongside director Edwin (center), producers Muhammad Zaidy (second left) and Meiske Taurisia (right), and actress Ladya Cheryl, on Feb. 18. (Courtesy of Palari Films/-)
T
he third novel by award-winning author Eka Kurniawan, Seperti Dendam, Rindu Harus Dibayar Tuntas, peculiarly given the international title Vengeance is Mine, All Others Pay Cash, has its cards lined up to become the next most-awaited movie.
There is still another year to go before the movie hits theaters, but it has already shown strength with its film production and potential international appeal.
The novel has a vivid, cinematic storytelling style as it explores the love story of Ajo Kawir, a fighter who keeps his sexual impotency a secret, and Iteung, a female bodyguard of the local mafia.
Translated into six languages with good reviews worldwide, the novel, which is set in Indonesia in the 1980s and 90s, takes a look at gender equality issues and power relationships, all wrapped up nicely in a romantic story peppered with fights and a car chase.
The movie adaptation, helmed by award-winner Edwin, is said to be something else, as it will not entirely be tied to the original story.
“It would be full of excitement,” said Edwin, who co-wrote the script together with Eka, on the sidelines of a media briefing in Kinosaurus, South Jakarta, on Feb. 18.
He hinted that, in the film, there would be a string of coming-of-age moments for the protagonist as he tries to strengthen his virility.
