©EmoWeemhoff/LemmingFilm
In Bosnian-Dutch director Ena Sendijarević’s sophomore feature “Sweet Dreams,” an unflinching narrative unfolds, exposing just a fraction of the horrors of Dutch colonialism in Indonesia. The film, which premiered in the International Competition at the 76th Locarno Film Festival, eloquently juggles dark satire and profound tragedy. It boldly presents the evils and terror the Dutch colonizers caused, marking a radical departure from the traditional lenient portrayals in Dutch cinema.
Directed by: Ena Sendijarević
Year: 2023
Country: Netherlands, Indonesia, Sweden, Réunion
Length: 102 minutes
Set in the early 20th century at an Indonesian sugar plantation, the narrative of the film centers on the after-effects of Dutch plantation owner Jan’s death. As his wealth is set to be inherited, his family is shocked to find out the man has left his wealth to his illegitimate son Karel (Rio Kaj Den Haas). This revelation causes the status quo to be turned upside down, unraveling twisted motives and emotions, as the Dutch family members grapple to retain what they claim to be theirs.
Dutch acting veteran Renee Soutendijk’s stunning performance as Agatha, the plantation owner’s wife, won her the ‘Best Performance’ award at Locarno. However, Soutendijk’s performance, though commendable, falls into the shadow of Hayati Azis, who steals the show with her quietly emotional portrayal of Siti, the Indonesian maid of the Dutch family. Azis’s outstanding brilliance in her first leading role amongst an ensemble of praised actors who have been in the acting business for a long time only highlights the capabilities of the actress.
Siti was subjected to sexual exploitation by Jan, resulting in the birth of Karel. Her character encapsulates the struggles of Indonesian women during colonization, who were subjected to unthinkable horrors and exploitation, through abuse of power dynamics. Sendijarević’s handling of this delicate subject is both graceful and hard-hitting. Her intersectionally feminist approach ensures that the stories of these women are not just told but felt. Azis’s nuanced performance beautifully complements this intention, making her portrayal constantly haunting. Siti’s resilience and efforts to raise her son amidst the terror of colonialists become the focal point and heart of the film.
What sets “Sweet Dreams” apart from previous films on Dutch colonialism is its unapologetic stance on the wrongdoings of the Dutch. On the subject of colonialism, the Dutch are known for their works in which they either try to put blame on both sides or portray the Dutch as oblivious. In contrast, here Sendijarević refuses to justify or soften their atrocities. Instead, she exposes the capitalist greed, lack of empathy, and inherent cruelty that characterized their reign. Each Dutch colonizer in the film represents a different facet of this twisted society, showing the insidiousness of their culture and making you root for the demise of each of them.
Furthermore, the director’s ability to balance satire with tragedy without letting one overshadow the other is nothing short of remarkable. Her writing is sharp, her direction precise, with immaculate framing and lighting making each frame look like a painting, and her vision is clear. She presents a view of history that refuses to pander to comfort and demands the audience to face the harsh realities of the past. “Sweet Dreams” is not a film that panders to the masses. Its uncompromising depiction of reality and its emphasis on a part of history often glossed over may be unsettling for some. But this is precisely where its strength lies. It is a film that refuses to sugarcoat, that insists on integrity, and that acknowledges the resilience and strength of those who suffered.
In conclusion, Ena Sendijarevic’s “Sweet Dreams” is an anti-colonial cinematic gem. It breaks away from stereotypes, boldly highlighting the wrongdoings of Dutch colonialism, and provides an unforgettable portrayal of resilience through the character of Siti. Hayati Azis’s masterful portrayal leaves a great impression and one can only look forward to what she’ll do next. This Dutch-Indonesian production serves as a lesson in empathy, a historical reflection, and a call to never forget. It stands as a powerful testament to cinema’s ability to enlighten, educate, hold accountable, and evoke change.
“Sweet Dreams” premiered at the 2023 Locarno Film Festival as part of the festival’s International Competition.
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