Ancient Soul is a thought-provoking film by Indonesian filmmaker Dwi Sujanti Nugraheni. The movie revolves around a Kawa Ijen sulfur miner named Bakti, who lives in a remote Indonesian village with his wife and son. He leads a simple life, following the animistic beliefs of his ancestors while working hard to provide for his family.
However, his routine is shattered when his wife leaves him to work in the city, leaving him to take care of their son. His son soon falls ill, and Bakti finds himself entering a time loop where he relives the same day repeatedly. During this time, his beliefs and values are challenged as he encounters people from different walks of life and begins to question the essence and purpose of life.
Throughout the film, Bakti's journey is depicted through a mixture of ethnofiction and documentary-style shots, creating a unique cinematic experience. Nugraheni uses the film to explore complex topics like religion, capitalism, and neocolonialism, offering a thoughtful and nuanced perspective on these issues.
Ancient Soul is a visually stunning and emotionally poignant film that reminds viewers of the importance of being mindful of our values and beliefs, especially in a rapidly changing world. The film is a testament to Nugraheni's skill as a filmmaker and storyteller, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in the intersection between culture, spirituality, and modernity.
