Terang Boelan
1937 · Drama
Skip it unless you're a devoted fan of classic Indonesian cinema—this 1953 melodrama about star-crossed lovers and forced marriage is historically significant but moves at a leisurely pace that'll test your patience. The plot is pure soap opera territory, and without subtitles or deep familiarity with the era's film language, you'll likely find yourself checking your phone by the halfway point.
Plot
Rohaya (Roekiah) must separate from her lover, Kasim (Rd Mochtar), so that she can marry her father's choice, the disreputable but rich Musa (Eddie T. Effendi). The night before the wedding, Kasim plays the song "Terang Boelan" for Rohaya, and they agree to elope. The following day, Rohaya and Kasim escape from Sawoba Island to Malacca, where Kasim begins work at a drydock and Rohaya keeps busy as a housewife. They discover that Kasim's old friend, Dullah (Kartolo), has lived in Malacca for some time.
Director: Albert Balink
Cast: Raden Mas Kartolo, Muhin, Tjitjih, Eddie T Effendie, R.D. Mochtar
