Gowok: Kamasutra Javanese, revealing hidden traditions in the drama full of emotions

About Semarang – One of the most awaited Indonesian films this year, Gowok: Kamasutra Jawa, the latest work from director Hanung Bramantyo, will air in theaters throughout Indonesia starting June 5, 2025.

This film lifts the story of Javanese tradition that is rarely discussed, packaged in drama that is aroused and full of meaning.

In the producer of Raam Punjabi, in the film Gowok: Kamasutra Jawa Hanung Bramantyo also cooperates with Aci as a script writer in the film that carries the issues of sexuality, and the deconstruction of patriaki values ​​in Javanese society.

Synopsis

The story of Ratri (Raihaanun), a woman who was raised by Nyai Santi (Lola Amaria), was a legendary gowok. Ratri grew up to become the successor to Nyai Santi, mastering the science of Gowok perfectly.

However, the dark past haunted Ratri when Kamanjaya (Reza Rahadian), a former lover who had denied the marriage promise, returned to his life.

Kamanjaya brought his son, Bagas (Ali Fikry), to learn from Nyai Santi, without realizing that Ratri was his ex -lover.

The situation becomes complicated when Bagas falls in love with Ratri, triggering inner conflict and revenge plans that shake their lives.

In Javanese culture, “Gowok” is an adult woman whose job is to educate the bride and groom about the art of loving and understanding her partner before marriage.

This tradition aims to create harmony in the household. However, over time, this practice fades and is often misunderstood.

Through this film, Hanung Bramantyo tries to revive this tradition through a modern lens, highlighting the educational and philosophical values ​​contained in it.

This film not only discusses sexuality, but also the role of women in patriarchal culture and the importance of healthy sexual education.

Reza Rahadian’s appearance as an adult kamanjaya stole the attention, with the transformation of appearance that reflected the 1960s.

Meanwhile, the return of Lola Amaria to the big screen after 11 years of giving a strong nuance of nostalgia.

Besides Reza Rahadian and Lola Amaria, the film Gowok: Kamasutra Jawa also stars Ali Fikry, Devano Danendra, and Alika Jantinia.

For information before airing in Indonesia, Gowok: Kamasutra Jawa has been first played in the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) 2025.

It shows international recognition of the quality and courage of this film in raising sensitive but important themes.

Gowok: Kamasutra Javanese is not just a drama film; This is an emotional journey that invites the audience to understand and appreciate the traditions and roles of women in society.

Watch in theaters starting June 5, 2025 and feel the strength of the story offered yourself. ***