Arisan! (2003) Review: An Indonesian Classic

Is Arisan! worth watching?

Yes — Arisan! remains one of the most celebrated films from Indonesia, with a 100/100 Celluloid Editorial Rating and enduring audience appeal. On Celluloid it holds a 100/100 Celluloid Editorial Rating, 88% Audience Snapshot, 52 Metascore, 4 on Letterboxd, and 7.4 on IMDb — numbers that explain why it still surfaces on every “best of Indonesia” list.

What is Arisan! about?

Wealthy Jakarta friends gather for arisan lottery nights where secrets, sexuality, and social climbing collide in sharp ensemble comedy. Directed by Nia Dinata, the film stars Tora Sudiro, Cut Mini, Indra Birow, and remains a reference point for Comedy and Drama filmmaking from Indonesia.

Should you watch Arisan!?

Yes, without hesitation — Arisan! rewards viewers who want more than algorithm-friendly new releases. At 90 minutes, it more than earns its running time — and the critics’ consensus still resonates today: Dinata’s groundbreaking comedy opened Indonesian cinema to LGBTQ stories with wit and warmth.

Where can I watch Arisan!?

Streaming availability varies by region — check major platforms in your country or local cinemas for revival screenings. Arisan! (2003) is widely indexed on IMDb (tt0386167) and remains one of the most searched classic titles from Indonesia on CelluloidScore.com.