Get ready to be whisked back to the enchanting 1960s Surabaya, Indonesia, where a young girl’s imagination knows no bounds. But here’s where it gets exciting: the mastermind team behind Jumbo, Indonesia’s highest-grossing film of all time, is reuniting for a live-action adaptation of Na Willa, a beloved children’s novel by Reda Gaudiamo. This isn’t just another movie—it’s a celebration of childhood, family, and the magic of storytelling. And this is the part most people miss: Na Willa isn’t just a story; it’s a visual and emotional journey that promises to captivate audiences from start to finish.
Visinema Studios, the powerhouse behind Jumbo, is steering this project, marking the second collaboration between director-writer Ryan Adriandhy, producer Anggia Kharisma, and producer Novia Puspa Sari. Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1960s Indonesia, the film follows an imaginative young girl as she navigates the joys and challenges of everyday life. The studio describes it as a heartfelt tribute to childhood and the richness of Indonesian family life.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While Jumbo broke records as the highest-grossing Southeast Asian animated film, Na Willa is Adriandhy’s live-action debut. Can he replicate the same magic in a new medium? Newcomer Luisa Adreena takes on the titular role, joined by seasoned actors Irma Rihi (Women from Rote Island) and Junior Liem. The pressure is on, but Herry Salim, group president of Visinema, is confident: ‘Na Willa carries forward the spirit that made Jumbo so special. Our goal is to deliver a film that not only moves people but also offers a rich visual and emotional experience.’
Adriandhy himself admits, ‘I fell in love with Na Willa the moment I read the novel. Its honesty and simplicity were extraordinary. For years, I’ve imagined how this world could come alive on screen.’ And author Reda Gaudiamo? She’s equally thrilled: ‘I know Na Willa is in the right hands of those who truly love her, and I can feel that warmth in every detail.’
Currently in production, Na Willa is slated for a 2026 release in Indonesia. But with Visinema’s recent success—including international co-productions like Panggil Aku Ayah (Call Me Dad) with CJ ENM and a collaboration with Pinkfong on the puppet series Domikado—expect this film to make waves far beyond its borders.
Here’s the thought-provoking question: Can Na Willa surpass the cultural impact of Jumbo, or will it carve out its own unique legacy? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
