Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts

Directed by Mouly Surya

93 minutes / Color
Indonesian / English subtitles
Release: 2017
Copyright: 2017

In the deserted hills of an Indonesian island, Marlina (Marsha Timothy), a young widow, is attacked and robbed of all her livestock by a gang of seven bandits. She then defends herself, setting out on a journey to find justice, empowerment, retribution and redemption. But the road is long, especially when she begins to be haunted by the ghost of her victim. A stunning Scope western set to a Morricone-inspired score, this unique tale of female cinematic revenge takes no prisoners.

"An unwavering slow burn… Ms. Surya gives Marlina a stark, steady, captivating look that keeps you engaged." —Manohla Dargis, The New York Times

"At once tightly controlled and simmering with righteous fury…  [MARLINA THE MURDERER] is a gorgeously lensed, atmospherically scored and moves inexorably toward a gratifying payoff… A revenge fantasy rooted in Indonesia’s gender conditions, complex regional culture and the stark beauty of its landscapes." —Maggie Lee, Variety

"Visually striking and then some…  As for [actress] Marsha Timothy, the film could hardly go further in making her an iconic figure." —Jonathan Romney, Film Comment

"Utterly bonkers in the best possible way, this stylish hybrid Indonesian spaghetti western is anchored around a powerhouse performance from Marsha Timothy as the young eponymous widow." —Kevin Maher, The London Times

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Select Accolades

  • Best Film, Cintra Awards at the Indonesian Film Festival
  • Best Cinematography and Best Sound, Asian Academy Creative Awards
  • Cannes International Film Festival 2017
  • Toronto International Film Festival 2017
  • San Diego Asian Film Festival 2017

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