Who has never heard of Laskar Pelangi? It doesn't feel like it's been 17 years since this movie was released. The movie that once rocked Indonesia is adapted from a best-selling novel written by Andrea Hirata.
Laskar Pelangi, which was directed by Riri Riza, successfully shows the story of the struggle of children from remote areas of Belitung in achieving education. Raising deep social issues, the movie emphasizes the importance of spirit, togetherness, and education in facing various obstacles in life.
Laskar Pelangi can be said to have been a huge success with a record audience of 4.6 million in theaters and positive feedback from its audience. Surprisingly, it turns out that this novel is an autobiographical novel from Andrea Hirata himself.
Laskar Pelangi's Storyline
Laskar Pelangi (2008) | IMDb
Laskar Pelangi tells the story of the struggle of children in Gantong village, Belitung, who attend Muhammadiyah Gantong Elementary School even though the school conditions and number of students are very limited. Initially there were only nine students, but thanks to the enthusiasm of Mrs. Muslimah and the arrival of two new students, Harun and Lintang, the school was able to remain open and start operating.
That's where the journey of Laskar Pelangi begins, a group of 11 students with different backgrounds and abilities who complement each other in their struggle to seek knowledge. Mrs. Muslimah, a dedicated teacher, continues to instill life values such as the importance of giving selflessly. Although initially underestimated, these children managed to achieve various achievements until they received recognition from the community, although in the middle of the road Lintang had to stop school to support his family after his father passed away.
Differences between Laskar Pelangi's Movie and Novel Version
Laskar Pelangi (2008) | IMDb
Although Laskar Pelangi successfully touched many viewers, there were several striking differences compared to the novel, especially in several scenes such as the carnival, quiz competition, SD Muhammadiyah dance performance, and Mahar and Flo's journey to Lanun Island which were considered less successful.
In the novel, Andrea Hirata wrote it in great detail and interestingly, but the movie was considered unable to translate the nuances optimally, thus reducing the strength of the story. Shinta Dewi, one of the viewers and readers, expressed criticism through her blog that although the reason for limited funds was understandable, there were simple scenes such as the August 17 dances that could actually be presented optimally without requiring large costs.
The novel version also depicts Lintang's future as tragic and touching, where he lives alone, is poor, thin, and works as a truck driver. Through this story, readers are invited to understand the bitter reality that many high-achieving children in Indonesia have to bury their dreams because of economic problems. Unlike the movie, Lintang still seems to have hope, depicted wearing a shabby white shirt and having a child, as if his life can still continue to develop.
However, some readers and viewers have different views on this matter. Some argue that the movie is better than the novel because it presents a more positive side and does not highlight the shortcomings in the story too much.
The cinematography in Laskar Pelangi successfully captures the natural charm of Belitung with visuals that are pleasing to the eye and blend with a touching storyline. The presence of music from Nidji band also deepens the emotions felt by the audience throughout the movie. Laskar Pelangi is a symbol of steadfastness and hope amidst limitations, so that it can inspire many people, both domestically and internationally.
Laskar Pelangi can be watched on various streaming platforms which present various popular Indonesian films. Carrying a universal theme and a deep message about the importance of education, this 2 hour 5 minute movie remains relevant and touches the hearts of its audiences to this day.
Sources:
Universitas Ciputra. (2021). Laskar Pelangi: Versi Film dan Versi Buku. https://www.ciputra.ac.id/library/laskar-pelangi-versi-film-dan-versi-buku/
Brilio. (2024). Ulasan film Laskar Pelangi, kisah inspiratif perjuangan anak-anak Belitung meraih mimpi. https://www.brilio.net/film/ulasan-film-laskar-pelangi-kisah-inspiratif-perjuangan-anak-anak-belitung-meraih-mimpi-241017c.html
