Bored of the same old Hollywood blockbuster? We hear you – we’ll take an award-winning indie over Captain America any day. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best independent movie theatres in Jakarta that will show you the films you really want to watch. Trust us, nothing mainstream over here.
Kinosaurus
A cozy micro-cinema situated at the back of Kemang’s longest standing bookstore, Kinosaurus offers screenings of independent movies that range from thrillers to family-friendly dramas. Expect films like Lars Von Trier’s Melancholia, Oscar-winning documentaries, and foreign films to be on the theatre’s eclectic line-up. Arrive early to grab a coffee and doughnut from next door’s Ruang Seduh, and sink back into one of their plushy chairs to enjoy the show.
Kinosaurus, Aksara, Jl. Kemang Raya 8B, South Jakarta. e. [email protected].
Arthouse Cinema at Goethe Institut
Cinephiles on a budget will really love this one: independent movies are screened for free at the Goethe Institut’s Arthouse Cinema program. Make your way over on every second and fourth Tuesday of the month to catch avant-garde, experimental films and documentaries that hail from all over Europe and Indonesia. Popcorn not included.
Goethe Institut, Jl. Sam Ratulangi 9-15, Central Jakarta, p. +62 21 23550208.
Cinema at Institut Francais Indonesia
Hate getting stuck in traffic after work? Just pop into the IFI’s Auditorium on Thamrin. Get your French cinema fix and catch promising Indonesian indie flicks with the Institut Francais’s curated selection that shows for free every Tuesday and Saturday.
Institut Francais Indonesia, Jl. MH Thamrin No. 20, Central Jakarta. p. +62 21 2355 7900.
Ruang Nonton at Ruang Artspace
Ruang Artspace, an alternative gallery space up North, hosts regular film screenings called Ruang Nonton. The program showcases a slew of local talents, from award-winning documentaries to riveting independents. Tickets are IDR 50,000, and visitors are encouraged to book ahead via the email below.
Ruang Artspace. Ruko Gold Coast Blok A No. 5, Pantai Indah Kapuk, North Jakarta. p. +62 81 289 552 250. e. [email protected].