Nanyang Film Festival (NFF) is a cinematic platform based in Jakarta, Indonesia, dedicated to fostering cultural dialogue and creative exchange between China and Southeast Asia through film. Founded by Nanyang Bridge Media and supported by partners Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival (JAFF) and FLIX Cinema, NFF showcases compelling stories from across the region, bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences through screenings, discussions, and cross-cultural collaborations. NFF aims to become a bridge for emerging Asian voices and a gateway for stories that connect cultures, perspectives, and communities across borders. Beyond cinema, NFF also serves as a dynamic platform where brands, institutions, and communities can meaningfully engage with culturally curious and globally connected audiences across Asia.  

The enthusiasm surrounding the screening of Wong Kar Wai’s masterpieces during Road to JAFF 2023 demonstrated a clear reality: Indonesian audiences are eager to experience high-quality Chinese-language cinema on the big screen.  When Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival (JAFF) brought the acclaimed “World of Wong Kar Wai” program to Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Bali, the response from film lovers was overwhelmingly positive. Iconic titles such as In the Mood for Love and Chungking Express attracted significant attention both online and offline, reaffirming the enduring appeal of Chinese-language films among Indonesian cinephiles.   

More than two decades after their original release, these films continue to resonate with audiences through their distinctive visual language, emotional depth, and universal themes of love, loneliness, and nostalgia. Yet the enthusiasm surrounding Wong Kar Wai’s work is only one example of a broader and growing interest in Chinese-language cinema among Indonesian audiences.   

With a population of over 280 million people and a median age of just 30, Indonesia represents one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic audience markets and largest film market, where demand for diverse international content continues to grow. Festivals such as JAFF and Nanyang Film Festival play a crucial role in cultivating film appreciation and introducing audiences to outstanding works from across Asia.   

In recent years, a diverse range of Chinese-language films have found enthusiastic viewers in Indonesia. The Taiwanese hit Sunshine Women’s Choir (2025), which enjoyed major success in its home market, was warmly welcomed by Indonesian audiences upon its theatrical release in May 2026. Meanwhile, the enduring popularity of the Ip Man franchise continues to demonstrate Indonesian audiences’ appreciation for Chinese action cinema, with anticipation already building for upcoming release of Ip Man Kung Fu Legend this month.   

Viewed collectively, these examples reveal a growing appetite for Chinese-language cinema in Indonesia, one that extends across audience segments, genres, and viewing preferences.   

Building on this momentum, the Nanyang Film Festival (NFF) and JAFF are joining forces through NFF × JAFF: Road to JAFF 2026, bringing a special showcase of selected premium Chinese-language films to Indonesia.   

Taking place over three days, the program will showcase a curated selection of premium Chinese-language films, bringing exceptional stories that deserve greater international recognition to Indonesian audiences. By connecting filmmakers with one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant film communities, the initiative seeks to foster cultural exchange and help outstanding works travel to new audiences across the region.   

Call for Submissions Now!   

Filmmakers are now invited to submit their works to our official website / Filmfreeway.  

Whether you are an emerging filmmaker or an established voice, this is an opportunity to bring your story to Southeast Asia and beyond.   

Submit your film today and become part of the next chapter of cultural exchange between China and Southeast Asia.