Nyanyian Bisu (A Mute Ballad)

Director : Laurent Sindhu

Language : Indonesian with English subtitle

2023 | Drama, 9 min.

Synopsis

In 1975, a decade after the harrowing events of the 1965 suppression, Rahardja, receives an unexpected visit from his nephew Guntur. The weight of the past hangs heavy in the air as Guntur confronts Rahardja about the death of his beloved brother, Kresna. Guntur, armed with the knowledge that Rahardja was one of the security officers involved in the execution, accuses him with fervor, urging Rahardja to confront his remorse and accept responsibility. However, Rahardja remains resolute in his denial, refusing to acknowledge any trace of guilt.

In the 1965 flashback, Kresna writes heartfelt lyrics on a fragile piece of paper. But Rahardja, driven by a misguided sense of duty, snatches away the piece of paper. As Kresna’s desperate cries for his uncle’s intervention reverberate through the air, Rahardja turns away, unable to witness the brutal death of his nephew. It is only later, consumed by regret and overwhelming grief, that Rahardja reads the lyrics Kresna had penned, their profound beauty now forever tainted by the knowledge of what was lost.

About Laurent Sindhu

Laurent Sindhu is an undergraduate film student at the Jakarta Institute of Arts, currently based in Tangerang Selatan. Despite his young age, he has already directed several films, including Pungkasan (2023), Surya Gemilang (2022), and Nyanyian Bisu (2023), both for his assignments and personal projects. He is also familiar with theatre, having already co-directed a theatre production with Teater Pagupon UI. He is currently working as an intern Assistant Director at Visinema Studios. With a focus on human-centric films that delve deep into the complexities of the human experience, Laurent brings a unique perspective to his work. He is deeply passionate about storytelling and approaches each project with an unwavering dedication to his craft.