Watch Children of Srikandi

Children of Srikandi is a documentary film released in 2012 that explores the lives of eight Indonesian women who identify as lesbians. The film takes its name from a legendary female warrior in Indonesian folklore who fought against injustice and oppression. Throughout the course of the film, the women share their personal stories of struggle and triumph, discussing the unique challenges they face as members of both the LGBTQ+ community and a predominantly Muslim society. They also speak candidly about their experiences of coming out to their families and communities, and the various forms of discrimination they have encountered over the years.

The film is a collaborative effort between eight Indonesian directors: Oji Ijo, Amerta Kusuma, Dian Eggie, Hera Mary, Lucky Kuswandi, Edo Wulia, Intan Paramaditha, and Afank Mariani. Each director focuses on a different aspect of the lives of the women featured in the film, crafting a diverse and nuanced portrait of the LGBTQ+ community in Indonesia.

While the women in the film face many challenges and forms of discrimination, the documentary is also filled with moments of joy and celebration. The women are shown participating in various cultural and artistic traditions, such as singing, dancing, and performing in drag shows. They also discuss the importance of creating safe and inclusive spaces for the LGBTQ+ community, and the role that activism and education can play in promoting acceptance and understanding.

The film is shot in a documentary style, with stunning visuals and intimate interviews that give viewers an inside look at the lives of these incredible women. The directors make use of a variety of cinematic techniques, including archival footage, animation, and reenactments, to bring the women's stories to life.

Overall, Children of Srikandi is a powerful and moving exploration of the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in Indonesia. The film is both a celebration of the strength and resilience of the human spirit, and a call to action for greater acceptance and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community in Indonesia and around the world.