Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts
Description:
Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts is a stylized revenge drama from Indonesia. Marlina, a quiet newly widowed ranch hand, is assaulted by four men in a remote village. After killing one of the attackers, she sets out on a calculated, ritualized pursuit of justice, carried out across a barren island landscape. The story unfolds in four acts, blending arthouse pacing with precise violence, deadpan humor, and social critique of patriarchy. A female-led Western-meets-folk tale with universal resonance. The film uses long takes, natural lighting, and a spare soundtrack to heighten tension, borrowing from Spaghetti Western and Indonesian folklore, while its arid cinematography and non-linear beats create a hypnotic mood that invites reflection on gender, violence, and justice beyond traditional genre boundaries.Keywords:
Misogyny, Indonesian Cinema, Neo Western, Revenge Thriller, Crime Drama, Female LedWhat are the four acts in Marlina?
"Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts" is a 2017 Indonesian film that presents its narrative in four distinct acts:
1. **Act One**: Introduces Marlina, a widow living in isolation on her farm, who confronts a group of men who invade her home with intentions to rob and assault her.
2. **Act Two**: After a violent encounter, Marlina takes matters into her own hands and commits murder in self-defense.
3. **Act Three**: Marlina embarks on a journey to report the crime, facing societal judgments and the consequences of her actions.
4. **Act Four**: The story culminates in her quest for justice and personal liberation, reflecting on themes of empowerment and survival.
Is Marlina based on a true story?
"Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts" is not based on a true story; it is a fictional narrative. Directed by Mouly Surya, the film tells the story of Marlina, a widow in rural Indonesia who confronts a group of thieves. While it draws on themes of violence, gender, and empowerment, the characters and plot are created for cinematic purposes and do not depict real events. The film blends elements of traditional Indonesian culture with a modern narrative, offering a unique perspective on women's struggles in society.
Where can I watch Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts?
"Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts" is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Kanopy. You can also rent or purchase it on services like Google Play and YouTube. Availability may vary based on your location, so it's best to check your preferred streaming service or digital rental platform for the most current options.
What inspired "Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts"?
"Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts," directed by Mouly Surya, is inspired by the themes of female empowerment and revenge, set against the backdrop of Indonesian culture. The film draws from the traditional narrative of women in peril and reinterprets it through a feminist lens. It combines elements of Westerns and horror, showcasing the journey of its protagonist, Marlina, as she confronts patriarchal oppression after being assaulted. The film's unique storytelling and visual style reflect the struggles and resilience of women in a male-dominated society.
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