Jakarta, October 1, 2026 — Indonesian filmmaker Garin Nugroho is set to return to the international festival circuit with his latest feature film, Merah Sebelum Fajar (Red Before Dawn), which has been selected for the Main Competition at the Tokyo International Film Festival 2026.

Running from October 26 to November 4, 2026, the festival will feature Merah Sebelum Fajar as the only Indonesian film competing in the Main Competition, alongside 14 other films from around the world. Its screening in Tokyo will also mark the film’s world premiere.

A Journey Through Indonesia’s Early Years of Independence

Set in Indonesia in 1946, one year after the proclamation of independence, Merah Sebelum Fajar follows FRANS, played by Nicholas Saputra, alongside four other characters from different backgrounds.

Together, they embark on a journey across the country carrying an important document. Along the way, however, their mission becomes increasingly complicated as they encounter suspicion from people who are seemingly meant to be part of the same struggle.

The film explores a turbulent period in Indonesia’s history through the experiences of its characters, offering a glimpse into the human stories behind the early years of the newly independent nation.

“I was drawn to the early years of independence because there are still many human experiences from that period that have yet to be seen on screen. In Merah Sebelum Fajar, we built a journey to look at Indonesia during a time of profound change. I’m happy that the film will meet audiences for the first time in Tokyo,” said writer and director Garin Nugroho.

Star-Studded Cast

Merah Sebelum Fajar features an ensemble cast of some of Indonesia’s most prominent actors, including Nicholas Saputra, Laura Basuki, Bront Palarae, Tissa Biani, and Nagra Pakusadewo.

Garin Nugroho co-wrote the screenplay with Dirmawan Hatta. The film is produced by Atarui Films, in collaboration with JAGARTHA, Springboard, Trinity Optima Production, and IMAJINARI, with support from Laspro.

First Look Ahead of Its Tokyo Premiere

The film first introduced its cast and story world through a series of first-look images released on September 22.

Now, with the release of its teaser poster, Merah Sebelum Fajar is taking another step toward its highly anticipated debut at the Tokyo International Film Festival 2026.

As the film heads to Tokyo for its world premiere, audiences will soon get their first opportunity to experience Garin Nugroho’s latest cinematic take on Indonesia’s early years of independence.