Indonesia has burst onto the global AI‑film scene with the short documentary Nusantara, which clinched the Best AI Documentary award at the 2025 AI Film Awards in Cannes. Produced by Jakarta‑based Neyra Vision in collaboration with Russian AI specialists, the film leverages cutting‑edge artificial intelligence to recreate the epic saga of Gajah Mada, the legendary prime minister of the Majapahit Empire, with ultra‑dense resolution and historically accurate visuals. This triumph marks the first time an Indonesian production has earned recognition at a dedicated AI‑film festival, signaling a bold entry into the international arena of AI‑driven storytelling .
The success of Nusantara underscores how AI is reshaping Indonesian filmmaking by democratizing high‑budget production tools. Creative producer Roma Nebo emphasizes that AI allows creators to own the workflow and intellectual property, turning local narratives into globally resonant content. By harnessing AI for tasks such as visual effects, character animation, and scene reconstruction, Indonesian filmmakers can produce large‑scale, historically rich scenes at a fraction of the cost traditionally required, opening doors for independent creators and regional stories to reach worldwide audiences .
Beyond the award, the impact ripples through Southeast Asian cinema, inspiring a wave of AI‑integrated projects and sparking debate about the role of technology in artistic expression. Industry voices, from director Fajar Bustomi to critic Hikmat Darmawan, acknowledge AI’s utility in pre‑production and visual enhancement while stressing that human creativity remains irreplaceable. They caution against over‑reliance on AI, urging a balanced approach that preserves the emotional depth and originality essential to compelling storytelling .
Looking ahead, Indonesia’s foray into AI cinema positions the nation as a potential hub for innovative, low‑budget yet visually stunning productions. As AI tools become more accessible, Indonesian filmmakers are poised to experiment with personalized narratives, AI‑generated scripts, and immersive visual experiences, potentially reshaping the future of global cinema and offering fresh pathways for cultural exchange .
