This edited volume seeks to evaluate the complex tensions between democratic renewal and regression by focusing on the activist efforts by Indonesian filmmakers to maintain and open spaces for creative experimentation, critical reflection and social diversity.

After the fall of the authoritarian New Order regime (1967–98), Indonesia embarked on a journey of renewed freedom, known as Reformasi. In recent years, however, democracy and civic freedoms have been in decline.

To critically examine the possibilities, contradictions, and impact of a broad variety of film activism, this volume engages with local debates about gender and sexual inequity, state violence, and environmental destruction The contributing authors include film scholars and critics, as well as film practitioners, directors, educators, and festival makers. This volume covers commercial feature films and producers, but also short film, documentary, web series, and video art, as well as the collaborative practices of independent film communities and festival organizers.