Vengeance Is Mine, All Others Pay Cash

Vengeance Is Mine, All Others Pay Cash, released in 2021, is a distinctive Indonesian movie directed by Edwin and written by Eka Kurniawan, who adapted it from his own novel of the same name. This feature film stars Marthino Lio, Ladya Cheryl, and Reza Rahadian was much anticipated due to the reputation of the novel that inspired it. The film has a unique, surrealistic representation of characters and storylines that develops into an engaging narrative with an underlying exploration of the theme of masculinity in modern society.

The central character of this captivating movie is Ajo Kawir (Marthino Lio), a young man caught in the throes of existential crisis. Ajo Kawir works as a local truck driver and a part-time street fighter, commonly involved in illegal brawls. Due to a traumatic childhood, he deals with a unique personal struggle – erectile dysfunction, and it is an unusual standout in the film's narrative. Throughout the movie, the persistent endeavor that Ajo Kawir makes is to overcome the aforementioned issue and restore his pride as a man. He contends with this personal issue while navigating through a world dominated by robust fighters and brazen goons.

The film uses multiple characters to present various multilayered perspectives on masculinity. Each of them brings a unique dimension to the overarching theme and helps unfold the story. Lio delivered a spectacular screen performance, perfectly encapsulating Ajo Kawir's aggressive demeanor in fights and his gentle, humble side in private.

Ladya Cheryl brilliantly portrays Iteung, an invincible female street fighter and the love interest of Ajo Kawir. Her charismatic performance presents an enriching dimension to the narrative. The unique bond she cultivates with Ajo Kawir, despite his impotence, and her role as a counterpoint for societal expectations of femininity, set her character apart.

Reza Rahadian plays the role of an intimidating gangster, a stark contrast to the generally softer roles he has undertaken in the past. His performance adds an intense and brooding spirit to the film's overall atmosphere. The movie explores his character’s masculinity in contradistinction to Ajo Kawir’s, offering different facets of manhood, and the societal norms around it, to the audience.

Vengeance Is Mine, All Others Pay Cash, is a film that plunges into the underbelly of Indonesian society, filled with hardened gangsters and violent fight clubs. The narrative is filled with action-packed sequences that are punctuated with moments of romance and wonder, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to the plotline. The balance between grim sequences and lighthearted moments testifies to the director Edwin's superb storytelling prowess that rarely misses a beat.

The movie's departure from the traditionally melodramatic narrative structure is commendable. The exploration of sexuality and masculinity, framed within a society dictated by certain norms, offers up a profound commentary. At several points in the narrative, scenes are played out in ways that challenge stereotypical gender identities and roles, adding a distinct edge to the film.

The cinematography by Gregorius Arya enhances the narrative with detailed capturing of fight sequences ensuring a pacifying visual rhythm while embarking on the character's emotional journeys. The soothing background score goes hand in hand with the visuals, camouflaging the somber undertones of the story with lively beats.

As a whole, Vengeance Is Mine, All Others Pay Cash is a ground-breaking movie that stands out for its approach on sensitive topics, its audacious portrayal of characters, and its compelling narrative style. The film never shies away from portraying violence in its raw form nor does it step back from showcasing the vulnerability of a man facing his deepest insecurities. The seamless variation from grim brutality to laughter and back to heartbreak is what captivates the audience throughout its runtime. The film is a breath of fresh air in the world cinema, a tribute to the rich and vibrant culture of Indonesia, well-crafted in a unique context of love, honor, vengeance, and the humanistic quest towards self-acceptance.