Movie Review Rumah Tanpa Jendela (2011)

 

Rumah Tanpa Jendela (The House Without a Window) | 2011 | 1h 40m
Genre: Drama/Family/Fantasy/Musical | Country: Indonesia
Director: Aditya Gumay | Writers: Adenin Adlan, Aditya Gumay, Asma Nadia
Cast: Emir Mahira, Dwi Tasya, Raffi Ahmad
IMDB: 7.3
My Rate: 9/10

Rara, who dreams of having a house with windows, unexpectedly befriends Aldo, a wealthy but kind child with special needs.  This friendship opens up new experiences for Rara, but their happiness is short-lived when a fire destroys Rara's home and Aldo is hurt because he's considered a shame to his family.

Warnings:

Contains strong language.

 

Synopsis:

Rara (Dwi Tasya) lives in a slum with her father (Raffi Ahmad) and Mbok (Inggrid Widjanarko) in a cardboard house. Their limited economic conditions don't dampen Rara's spirits. She diligently attends school with her friends and has dreams she wants to achieve.

Rara desperately wants a house with windows.  Mbok's ill health makes Rara believe windows will solve the problem, believing they will improve air circulation and let sunlight into the house. However, this dream is difficult to achieve due to their economic situation.

One day, Rara meets Aldo (Emir Mahira), a child with special needs who comes from a wealthy family. Rara is impressed by Aldo's painting of a house with many windows. They become close friends after Aldo and his grandmother rescue Rara from being injured after being accidentally hit by their car.

Aldo is kind and generous. He donates some of his and his family's books to Rara's school. Aldo also doesn't hesitate to invite Rara's friends to swim and play at his house.  However, his mother and older sister dislike this.

Aldo's special needs embarrass his older sister (Maudy Ayunda), who hides him from her friends. Aldo's fondness for playing with children from the slums further increases her shame. His mother also objects to Aldo's actions, though he receives support from his grandmother and older brother.

Trouble arises when a fire engulfs Rara's house, with Mbok inside, unconscious. Rara's father, trying to save Mbok, is severely injured. Meanwhile, Aldo and Rara face problems after being blamed for disrupting his sister's birthday party.

Will Rara and Aldo overcome their problems?

 

Review:

Rumah Tanpa Jendela is a musical film adapted from Asma Nadia's short story, "Jendela Rara."  It has a simple story but is presented very engagingly. The musical elements blend seamlessly with the narrative.

The story conveys a profound message, presented systematically and easily understood. It shows two contrasting worlds: Rara's poverty and Aldo's wealth. Yet, they become friends despite their respective challenges.

The development of the story's background and characters is well-done. Viewers clearly understand each character's story. The conflict arises skillfully, with clues revealed throughout its development.  Although there are two conflicts, they don't overlap. The resolution is also well-handled and not rushed.

The cinematography, color composition, and camera movement are good. However, some transitions using "dip to black" make the transitions appear less smooth.  Despite this, the film is overall enjoyable.

The soundtrack selection is excellent. Each song has good musicality and meaningful lyrics, fitting the story and enhancing the scenes.

The acting is superb. Emir's portrayal of Aldo is particularly convincing, especially considering his young age. His captivating performance is deserving of the awards he received.

The other actors are equally good. The choice of new actors from a theater group was an excellent decision, ensuring they possess acting skills.  Their experience and training are evident in their natural performances.

Overall, this is a lighthearted family film. The profound message conveyed makes it suitable for teaching children valuable lessons.

 

Memorable Scene:

Rara and Aldo take shelter in an empty house. While eating together, Aldo expresses his gratitude that Rara is still friends with him despite his differences. He feels ashamed because his family is embarrassed by him and his disability.

This scene highlights how our treatment of others impacts their emotions. We can inflict wounds through unkindness and discrimination, especially towards those with special needs. They are human beings just like everyone else.

 
Memorable Dialogue:

"It's okay to have big dreams."

 

Ending:

Happy Ending

 
Recommendation:

Must Watch

 

(Aluna)