Program Talk: Facing Emotional Challenges in the Dynamics of the Film Industry

Jakarta, 10/25/2024 – Managing emotions in the film industry is essential, given that the production process involves many parties with different backgrounds, personalities, and interests. This requires creative industry workers to create a harmonious work environment, facilitating communication and collaboration while preventing bullying and violence in the workplace. The question is, how can we maintain emotional stability to stay professional?

This topic was discussed in the Program Talk titled “From Heart to Heart: Emotional Labor in the Film Industry” with experienced speakers such as April Priscilla (Line Producer), Putri Ayudya (Head of Actinglab at Mondiblanc Film Workshop), and Rain Cuaca (Project Officer for Indonesiana Film and Co-Founder of the 100% Manusia Film Festival). They shared their experiences with emotional challenges during film production and emphasized the importance of mental health amidst a work dynamic that is often filled with pressure.

In a fast-paced and ever-changing creative work environment, April noted that the first step in dealing with unstable emotions is identifying the root of the issue. “We need to identify the problem first because not every instability can be resolved by resting. Sometimes, just talking, crying, or exercising is enough,” she explained. According to her, understanding the source of emotional instability helps in choosing the right strategy to cope.

Rain Cuaca shared his experience from the perspective of a festival industry professional. Facing numerous parties, both domestic and international, requires strong diplomatic skills. “I often interact with people from various backgrounds. We need to maintain harmony and avoid confrontation. For that, communication and long-term preparation are essential,” he said.

In the acting world, where emotions play a central role, Putri Ayudya highlighted the particular challenges of intimate scenes, which are often crucial in storytelling but can be challenging for actors. To ensure the actors’ comfort, Mondiblanc Film Workshop has developed a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to manage sensitive scenes. “We want to make sure every actor feels safe and respected so they can perform at their best without feeling pressured,” Putri explained.

This Program Talk conveyed the message that emotions are an inseparable part of any job, especially in the film industry. To create a healthy work dynamic and maintain mental well-being, each individual needs to manage emotions wisely. Good emotional health not only supports individual well-being but also strengthens team collaboration and overall production quality.

For more information about Jakarta Film Week 2024, visit www.jakartafilmweek.com and follow us on social media @jakartafilmweek. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this international cinema celebration in Jakarta this year!

Asia Khairunnisa Luthan | Nanda Hadiyanti