*SPOILER ALERT—“History is always written by the victors,” a phrase that means more than just words when it comes to Indonesian history. Eksil (2022) is a documentary film that explores how historical narratives can be manipulated and how our education system has been shaped to hate the PKI through extreme propaganda. This film unveils bitter truths that have long been concealed—those who lost, were exiled, and deliberately erased from our collective memory. A film that can be considered a success, as it holds an 8.6/10 rating on IMDb.
A Documentary That Unveils Old Wounds
Directed by Lola Amaria, Eksil stands as one of the most important documentaries of the 21st century. The film presents interviews, archives, and firsthand accounts from those who directly experienced the 1965 tragedy. Beyond being a historical record, Eksil illustrates how the wounds of 1965 still linger in the lives of the exiles and their families. The film carries an emotional weight comparable to Citizenfour (2014), the Oscar-winning documentary about Edward Snowden. Citizenfour revealed how Snowden leaked classified NSA documents proving mass surveillance on American citizens and the world. The film not only shook the globe but also turned Snowden into a fugitive forced to leave his country and live in exile in Russia.
The production team of Citizenfour also faced immense threats and pressure, which underscores how documentary films can have significant impacts and serious consequences for their creators. Similarly, Eksil carries considerable risks for its filmmakers and interviewees, as it touches on an extremely sensitive topic in Indonesian politics and history. Unfortunately, while Eksil premiered on November 27, 2022, at the Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival (JAFF), it was never widely released to the public. Security concerns were a major reason, especially after the filmmakers received direct requests from the exiles, fearing they might relive their past traumas.
Alternative Screenings and Disappointing Censorship
In recent years, Eksil has been screened in independent cinemas by special request from promoters who view the film as an essential historical document for the public. As a result, its screenings have remained limited to select circles. Moreover, the 2025 re-release of the film was met with disappointment due to the removal of several key scenes, particularly those depicting the involvement of Prabowo Subianto, the current President of Indonesia. One audience member from the film’s 2022 JAFF premiere expressed frustration upon rewatching the censored version, which had omitted Prabowo’s significant role in the political landscape of that era.
Documentaries, Censorship, and the Importance of Truth
As a documentary, Eksil should be able to present facts as they are. Unfortunately, the 2025 version underwent heavy cuts, significantly distorting its essence. While it is undeniable that screening the full version would carry substantial risks, the censorship has blurred the film’s message for its audience. This cycle of selective historical narratives must not continue—if history is constantly curated for public consumption, we are doomed to repeat past mistakes due to limited access to information.
For this reason, consistent alternative screenings and distribution through streaming platforms could be the best way to preserve the integrity and message of a film as crucial as Eksil. As the saying goes, “A nation that forgets its history is doomed to repeat it.”
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