The Rainmaker

A very idiosyncratic and rare film within the Indonesian context or indeed within any context. A surrealistic tale that does not give up its secret very easily. The acting is stylised and captured in equally stylised shots and camera movements. The action takes place in an inhospitable and drought-ridden village on a remote island. The story only needs three characters. Firstly there is Johan, who is trying to use new scientific techniques to lure rain to the village (he is the rainmaker of the title). Johan seems to have been sent by the central government, but he would also appear to have been left to his own devices by that same central government. The plane he needs to influence the weather doesn’t arrive, in any case. Then there is Asih, the charismatic traditional singer, who becomes Johan’s object of obsession. Finally there is the housekeeper of the singer, who forms a great contrast with the meteorologist. In the face of Johan’s rational attempts to influence the situation, there is Aish’s observing and long-suffering anticipation. She asks no questions and has no expectations. Johan’s interest in Asih is not appreciated by the villagers. She is the village diva and people don’t want to share her with a stranger. For the film maker, this is primarily a film about mood and atmosphere, in which the spectator is offered the freedom to feel and experience the illusion of the film. (GjZ)