“Jumbo,” an Indonesian animated film about a spirited orphan named Don, has taken the country by storm, becoming the highest-grossing animated movie in Indonesia’s history and overtaking Disney’s “Frozen 2.” As of mid-May, more than 9.6 million people had watched the film, generating over $20 million in revenue. The movie, released on March 31 by Visinema Pictures, tells the story of a bullied village boy who attempts to stage a talent show, and has also become the most-watched animated feature in Southeast Asia.
The film’s success is being seen as a major milestone for Indonesia’s animation industry, long overshadowed by live-action genres such as horror. The achievement is not only about box office numbers but is viewed as a cultural victory, showcasing that Indonesian audiences are eager for stories that reflect their own experiences and heritage.
“Jumbo” has drawn comparisons to the breakout success of China’s “Ne Zha 2,” which recently surpassed Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” globally. Unlike live-action films, animation in Indonesia is still considered a risk by many investors due to the high costs and longer production timelines. However, the unexpected triumph of “Jumbo” could help shift that perception. The film’s 420-member crew spent five years creating it, and its release during the Eid school holidays helped attract a wide audience of all ages.
With plans to launch in 17 countries beginning in June, the movie’s impact is poised to grow further. Local cinema operator Cinema XXI recorded over 14 million moviegoers in April—its highest ever—with “Jumbo” playing a key role in that success. The rise in demand for animated content in the Asia-Pacific region, fueled by streaming platforms and the affordability of skilled labor, is contributing to a broader animation boom.
Despite the momentum, Indonesia’s animation sector still earns most of its income through outsourced services rather than original intellectual property. However, Visinema Pictures is aiming to change that by investing $10 million into its animation slate, including two additional films. A potential sequel or musical featuring Don and his friends is already being discussed.
The emotional resonance of “Jumbo,” especially Don’s journey from self-doubt to empowerment, has struck a chord with audiences. Its success marks a turning point for local animation and offers hope for more original Indonesian stories to reach global screens.
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