Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — A group of 265 students from Raden Umar Said Vocational High School in Kudus, Central Java, has successfully produced an animated short film titled Nyla. Spearheaded by RUS Animation Studio, the largest animation studio in Central Java, the project was created over the course of more than a year.
The rapid growth of Indonesia’s local animation industry has brought numerous creative works to the forefront. Among the latest to capture public attention is Nyla, which premiered at the 2024 Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival (JAFF) before being officially released on January 15, 2025, via the RUS Animation Studio YouTube channel, according to Good News from Indonesia, .
A Story of Dreams and Resilience
Nyla follows the journey of a young girl from Sumba who dreams of becoming a professional soccer player like her late father. However, her path is riddled with challenges. She faces societal stigma against women in sports and her mother’s disapproval, driven by the pain of losing her husband.
As part of a family rooted in strong traditional values, Nyla’s ambitions pose a significant challenge. Her story is one of determination, hard work, and the belief that dreams can be achieved despite societal and personal obstacles.
Adding to the film’s emotional depth is its original soundtrack, Menggapai Puncak Dunia (Reaching the Peak of the World), performed by Indonesian idol group JKT48 and composed by the celebrated trio Laleilmanino. The song captures Nyla’s resilience and optimism, enhancing the film’s inspirational message.
Effort on Portraying Sumba Culture
The production of Nyla was a monumental effort involving 265 students from two cohorts at vocational highschool. Directed by Sigit Hermawan, the project required extensive research and dedication to ensure authenticity in its portrayal of Sumba’s culture.
The team conducted on-site visits to Sumba, studying the region’s traditions, accents, gestures, and daily interactions to create authentic characters and settings. To further enhance accuracy, the studio collaborated with native Sumbanese individuals who participated in the creative process, helping to capture the nuances of the region’s cultural identity.
Overcoming Production Challenges
Creating an animated film with a team of over 200 students presented significant challenges, particularly in maintaining consistent animation quality across scenes. From character expressions to background elements, every detail required meticulous attention to ensure a cohesive final product.
Teamwork and collaboration were crucial in overcoming these hurdles. By fostering strong communication and coordination across various departments, the production team successfully delivered a high-quality film that reflects their dedication and creativity.
Recognition at a Prestigious Film Festival
The animated short film Nyla earned a spot among the featured films at the Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival (JAFF) 2024, one of Indonesia’s largest and most renowned film festivals. This accomplishment stands as a proud milestone and serves as an inspiration for animators across the country.
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Nyla is not just a testament to the talent of Indonesian animators but also a celebration of the country’s cultural richness and the perseverance of its people. As it continues to captivate audiences, Nyla sets a new standard for local animation as it made a positive impact on society and Indonesia’s film industry.
(Raidi/Agung)
