Jakarta, February 24, 2026 – Indonesian production house Pal8 Pictures has officially unveiled the full cast of its upcoming feature film “Laut Bercerita” (The Sea Speaks His Name), adapted from the bestselling novel by Leila S. Chudori.
After previously announcing the main cast at last year’s JAFF Market, the studio now introduces the complete ensemble who will bring this powerful story to life on the big screen.
Previously revealed cast members include Reza Rahadian as Biru Laut, Yunita Siregar as Asmara Jati, Christine Hakim as the mother, Arswendi Bening Swara as the father, Dian Sastrowardoyo as Kasih Kinanti, and Eva Celia as Ratih Anjani.
Joining them are Kevin Julio as Daniel Tumbuan, Ben Nugroho as Alex Perazon, Dewa Dayana as Sunu Dyantoro, Yoga Pratama as Arifin Bramantyo, Nagra Kautsar as Naratama, Natalius Chendana as Julius, and Afrian Arisandy as Gala Pranaya. These actors portray key members of Winatra, the student discussion group that plays a pivotal role in Biru Laut’s journey.
A Story of Resistance, Loss, and Hope
Directed by Yosep Anggi Noen and written by Leila S. Chudori alongside the director, the film is produced by Gita Fara, Budi Setyarso, and Leila S. Chudori. Pal8 Pictures collaborates with VMS Studio, Jagartha, Lynx Films, and Brandlink on the production.
Set in 1991, the story follows Biru Laut, an English literature student who becomes involved with Winatra after meeting its leader, Kasih Kinanti. Together with Daniel, Alex, and Sunu, Laut comes to believe that reading and writing are acts of resistance. But eventually, action becomes inevitable in the face of injustice.
Behind the intellectual spirit and youthful idealism lies immense risk—and consequences that change lives forever.
An Emotional Journey for the Cast
For Reza Rahadian, portraying Biru Laut has been emotionally demanding. He hopes the film will open space for reflection on social issues that remain relevant today. Off-screen, the camaraderie among the Winatra cast members has grown into genuine friendship.
Ben Nugroho describes Alex Perazon as a strong and complex character, calling the role both challenging and rewarding. Meanwhile, Kevin Julio shared that working with Yosep Anggi Noen had long been a personal dream. “When I was cast as Daniel Tumbuan, I was deeply moved—almost in tears,” he said. Jokingly, he added that one of the most memorable moments on set was filming the Blangguan scene: “When else do you get to see Dian Sastro and Reza drenched in rain and covered in mud?”
Eva Celia revealed that when she first read the novel years ago, Anjani was her favorite character. “I once imagined that if this novel were ever adapted into a feature film, I would want to play Anjani. That dream has now come true,” she said.
Dian Sastrowardoyo, who has long admired the character Kinan, expressed her happiness at being entrusted with the role.
Yunita Siregar immersed herself in the emotional depth of Asmara Jati, Biru Laut’s younger sister and the emotional pillar of the family. While their parents refuse to believe that Laut has disappeared, Asmara quietly confronts the painful possibility that her brother may never return.
37 Days Across Four Cities
Filming took place over 37 days in Semarang, Salatiga, Jakarta, and Sukabumi. Yosep Anggi Noen acknowledged that adapting such a beloved novel posed significant challenges. The film must honor readers’ expectations while remaining accessible to broader audiences unfamiliar with the book.
Budi Setyarso, Director of Pal8 Pictures, expressed gratitude for the talented cast supporting the company’s first feature-length production. He hopes the spirit of friendship and solidarity embodied by Winatra will resonate with audiences.
Producer Gita Fara added that this feature-length adaptation offers a more comprehensive portrayal of Biru Laut’s journey, emphasizing themes of family, loss, and enduring hope.
Expanding to the International Stage
“Laut Bercerita” has been selected for the Work-in-Progress (WIP) program at the Hong Kong – Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF) 2026 and will participate in Hong Kong Filmart from March 17–19, 2026, seeking international collaboration opportunities.
The film is scheduled for nationwide theatrical release across Indonesia in 2026.
A story of youthful courage, families waiting without certainty, and love that refuses to disappear—“Laut Bercerita” aims to be more than a film. It is an invitation to remember, to reflect, and to feel.
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