The latest film by Joko Anwar, The Siege at Thorn High (Pengepungan di Bukit Duri), is one of the most anticipated releases of 2025.

It’s not just the director’s stellar reputation—known for Satan’s Slaves and Gundala—that draws attention, but also the film’s powerful commentary on pressing social issues that remain painfully relevant.

Blending drama and thriller genres, this film packs tension, social critique, and deep character emotions into a compelling narrative. Here are three reasons why The Siege at Thorn High deserves a spot on your watchlist:

1. Deeply Relevant and Powerful Social Themes

One of the film’s biggest strengths is its fearless exploration of ongoing social issues in Indonesia. The screenplay, written in 2007, was Joko Anwar’s response to concerns like violence, corruption, and above all, the failure of the education system.

Even though the script was finished years ago, Joko only brought it to life now because those same issues persist. In a recent press conference, he shared how, after 17 years, little has changed. Violence in schools, discrimination, and educational inequality still plague the country, and this film serves as a sobering reflection of that reality.

Through the character of Edwin (played by Morgan Oey), a Chinese-Indonesian man haunted by the 2009 riots, the audience is taken into the dark corners of a dysfunctional society. The tension in the film isn’t just for thrills—it stems from a place of painful familiarity. This film doesn’t hand out solutions; instead, it presents an unflinching mirror that prompts viewers to reflect on the nation’s direction.

2. A Solid Genre Blend: Drama, Thriller, and Meaningful Action

Though rooted in the drama-thriller genre, The Siege at Thorn High skillfully weaves in other elements in just the right measure.

Action isn’t the film’s primary focus, but its presence feels organic and crucial to the story’s development. Riot scenes, bullying, and survival fights aren’t just intense—they’re emotionally charged, thanks to strong character dynamics.

Each moment of suspense is carefully built—not rushed—and grounded in the characters’ personal and social conflicts. This is what sets Joko Anwar’s thrillers apart from your typical tension-filled flick: they provoke emotion, not just adrenaline.

While drama and thriller dominate, the film also gives audiences moments to breathe through a dash of dark humor. These funny moments arise from the characters’ desperation or the absurdity of their situations—not from forced jokes. The "social dystopia" setting feels even more real through this subtle, ironic humor.

3. Large-Scale Collaboration and Talented Young Cast

Another reason to watch the film is the groundbreaking collaboration between Indonesia’s Come and See Pictures and the legendary Amazon MGM Studios—marking a major partnership between a local production house and a global studio. This is not just a production milestone but a big step in introducing Indonesian cinema to international audiences.

On the acting front, the film showcases a lineup of talented young actors who breathe life into this intense narrative. Morgan Oey as Edwin leads a cast that includes Omara Esteghlal, Hana Malasan, Endy Arfian, Fatih Unru, and Satine Zaneta.

They’re not just fresh faces but powerful representations of a younger generation growing up amid systemic chaos.

Their performances are made even stronger by the script’s vivid dialogue and emotionally charged interactions—capturing tension, despair, hope, and resistance in one gripping emotional journey. The chemistry among the cast feels natural, making it easy for the audience to connect with their struggles.

The Siege at Thorn High isn’t just another thrilling spectacle. It’s a work born from sharp observation, deep unrest, and masterful storytelling. Through its relevant themes, tightly-woven genre elements, and bold collaboration with rising Indonesian talent, this film is one to watch.

Set to hit theaters across Indonesia on April 17, 2025, this film promises to stir both your heart and your thoughts. If you’re looking for a movie that will keep you on edge while also prompting critical reflection, The Siege at Thorn High is not to be missed.

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