Starring Dian Sastrowardoyo, Ringgo Agus Rahman, and Ali Fikry
Jakarta, August 26, 2025 — The Indonesian feature film Esok Tanpa Ibu, internationally titled Mothernet, has officially been selected to compete in the prestigious Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) 2025, under the Vision program. A collaborative production by BASE Entertainment and Beacon Film, the film stars acclaimed actors Dian Sastrowardoyo, Ringgo Agus Rahman, and rising young star Ali Fikry.
The Vision program at BIFF spotlights bold and original voices from independent cinema across Korea and Asia. Formerly part of Korean Cinema Today – Vision, the newly restructured program now stands on its own, reflecting the growing importance of showcasing emerging Asian filmmakers.
In 2025, a total of 23 titles have been selected for the Vision section, with Mothernet being one of the 11 films in the Vision Asia category. The expanded scope of this program also includes new awards aimed at empowering filmmakers across the region.
Marking its 30th anniversary, the Busan International Film Festival continues to serve as Asia’s largest and most influential film festival—a global stage for cinematic excellence and innovation.
About the Film: Mothernet
Mothernet tells the poignant story of Rama (played by Ali Fikry), a headstrong teenager who believes no one in the world truly understands him—except for his mother, his greatest ally during the turbulent years of adolescence. But when tragedy strikes and he loses her, Rama is left to navigate life on his own.
Just as he begins to spiral into isolation, an unexpected presence enters his life: I-BU, an AI program designed by a friend to replicate the warmth and care of a mother. As Rama struggles with the tension between grief, growing up, and a complicated relationship with his strict father, he must learn what it means to let go, and to heal.
Directed by Ho Wi-ding, the award-winning Malaysian filmmaker behind the Platform Prize winner at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival and Best New Director at the 2010 Golden Horse Awards, Mothernet explores universal themes of family, technology, and emotional resilience.
The screenplay was co-written by Gina S. Noer, Diva Apresya, and Melarissa Sjarief. The film is produced by Shanty Harmayn, Dian Sastrowardoyo, Tanya Yuson, Aoura Lovenson, and Winnie Lau, representing a cross-national collaboration that brings together diverse creative perspectives from across Asia.
Producer Statements“Busan International Film Festival is the perfect platform for Mothernet’s world premiere. It’s a celebration of Asian cinema, and a collaborative effort among filmmakers who share a vision to push creative boundaries while telling heartfelt stories about parent-child relationships.”
— Shanty Harmayn, Producer
“I’m incredibly grateful to BIFF for recognizing Mothernet. As a producer and actor in the film, this project holds deep personal meaning. It’s not just the next chapter for Beacon Film, but also a gateway for international audiences to discover both acclaimed and emerging talents—especially the brilliant performance by Ali Fikry.” — Dian Sastrowardoyo, Producer & Cast
Stay Connected
Follow the journey of Mothernet (Esok Tanpa Ibu) through its official updates on Instagram: @base.id
Leave a Reply