Writer: Maya Olivia, Wandering Journalist*)
It was a serene Sunday noon in the spiritual heart of Ubud, Bali, I found myself on a journey that would intertwine my roots with the enchanting world of cinema. As a journalist from Tamiang, Central Kalimantan, I had the rare opportunity to interview Julio Rionaldo, a filmmaker whose name resonates with magic and independence. Our encounter took place in a quaint venue overlooking Ubud’s rice terraces, near his private villa where he resides with his Norwegian partner. The setting was nothing short of idyllic, a perfect backdrop for the unfolding narrative of a storyteller whose works have touched hearts globally.
My initial brush with Julio happened at the Kinosuite International Film Festival in Jakarta. As a previous guest, I had been swept away by the eclectic array of independent films and the palpable creative energy that permeated the event. The festival was a melting pot of cultural expressions, where filmmakers from various backgrounds came together to share their stories. Little did I know, that magical evening would be the precursor to a deeper connection with one of the most intriguing storytellers of our time. Julio’s work stood out to me, not just for its aesthetic beauty but for its profound ability to touch on universal human experiences
As I meandered through the vibrant streets of Ubud, I was captivated by the cultural tapestry that surrounded me. The scent of incense mingled with the sounds of traditional gamelan music, creating an atmosphere that was both mystical and invigorating. My anticipation grew as I approached Julio’s villa, a hidden gem amidst the lush greenery of Bali. The tranquility of the surroundings seemed to mirror the calm yet intense energy I was about to encounter in Julio Rionaldo.
Julio greeted me with a warm smile that immediately put me at ease. His presence exuded a calm confidence that was both welcoming and slightly enigmatic. His delicate features, framed by flowing hair, gave him an almost ethereal look, a reflection of his diverse Dutch-Chinese-Indonesian ancestry. We settled into a cozy nook within the venue, sipping on fragrant tea as the afternoon sun cast a golden glow over the terraces. The ambiance was perfect for an intimate conversation that would delve deep into the life and mind of this remarkable filmmaker.
“Growing up in the suburbs of Jakarta and Anaheim was a bit of a whirlwind,” Julio began, his voice carrying the weight of his experiences. “I traveled a lot, which meant I didn’t have many friends. But the few I had are friends forever.” His eyes twinkled with a mixture of nostalgia and amusement as he recounted his childhood.
Before delving deeper into his story, Julio turned the conversation towards me, expressing genuine curiosity about my life in the village of Central Kalimantan. His interest wasn’t merely polite; it was rooted in a shared sense of heritage. I shared stories of my childhood, the vibrant community, and the deep connection to our tribal roots. With this shared understanding, our bond felt stronger. Julio’s multicultural roots were evident in his storytelling, each anecdote layered with the richness of his heritage. His journey into filmmaking was anything but conventional, shaped by a tapestry of experiences that spanned continents and cultures.
As we continued, Julio recounted a pivotal moment in his life. “During an internship at a public radio station in Santa Monica, I had the chance to bump into Mads Mikkelsen,” he said, a hint of excitement in his voice. “That encounter led me to the Sundance Institute’s Screenwriter’s Lab a decade ago. It was there that I met Benh Zeitlin and Sean Baker.”
He paused, reflecting on the impact these encounters had on him. “Benh and Sean were my mentors back in the day,” he explained. “Their passion and dedication to storytelling were incredibly inspiring. They weren’t just creating films; they were crafting experiences that resonated deeply with audiences. Seeing their commitment and the raw authenticity in their work made me realize the kind of storyteller I wanted to be.”
Julio described how Benh Zeitlin’s “Beasts of the Southern Wild” and Sean Baker’s “The Florida Project” profoundly influenced his approach to filmmaking. “Benh’s ability to blend fantasy with raw human emotion and Sean’s knack for capturing the essence of life on the fringes of society opened my eyes to new possibilities,” he said. “They taught me that it’s okay to be different, to embrace the unique aspects of your background and let them shine through your work.” It was clear that these chance encounters and the relationships forged therein had profoundly influenced Julio’s artistic journey, steering him towards a path that was uniquely his own.
His path to the film industry was unorthodox, to say the least. With a background in law and a stint as a Deloitte associate, filmmaking had initially been a creative outlet, a hobby that provided respite from the rigidity of his corporate life. “I used to write stories and make short films in my spare time,” he explained, his passion evident in every word. “It was a way to escape the rigidity of my corporate life, to channel my creativity into something tangible.” This phase of his life, marked by a dual existence of corporate stability and creative exploration, laid the foundation for his eventual transition to full-time filmmaker.
Julio’s breakthrough came when his unique visual style, dubbed “magical neorealism,” caught the attention of critics and audiences alike. “I see the world through the eyes of an 8-year-old,” Julio said, his eyes twinkling with childlike wonder. “Every frame in my films is designed to evoke that sense of curiosity and imagination.” This whimsical yet profound perspective is what sets Julio’s work apart, infusing his narratives with a sense of wonder that resonates deeply with viewers. His films are a celebration of the extraordinary within the ordinary, a visual feast that invites audiences to see the world through a different lens.
As we delved deeper into his journey, Julio shared the milestones that had shaped his career. His rise from indie roots to global prominence is a testament to his relentless passion and unwavering dedication. His presence graced the carpets at prestigious festivals such as the Toronto International Film Festival and the Marche du Film at Cannes Film Festival. “Kinosuite is my way of giving back,” he said earnestly, his eyes reflecting a deep sense of purpose. “I hope it grows to be like the Sundance Institute, nurturing storytellers who have the talent but lack the opportunity.” Julio’s hope and vision for Kinosuite is one of inclusivity and empowerment, a platform where diverse voices can find a home.
Julio’s cinematic influences extend beyond his personal experiences. He spoke with admiration about the styles of Terrence Malick and Hirokazu Kore-eda. “Malick’s thought-provoking existentialism and Kore-eda’s subtle, humanistic storytelling have always fascinated me,” he said. “Their ability to capture the beauty and complexity of life in such distinct ways has been a guiding light in my own work.”
A significant turning point in Julio’s journey came during his teenage years in the US, when he watched a Soviet short film titled “Steamroller and The Violin.” “That film changed everything for me,” he recalled. “It was the first time I saw how powerful and transformative cinema could be. The simplicity of the story, combined with its profound emotional depth, made me realize that I wanted to make films that could touch people in the same way.”
Julio’s fascination with these cinematic masters and his transformative experience with “Steamroller and The Violin” shaped his aspirations to create films that blend the extraordinary with the mundane, offering viewers a fresh perspective on life. His work, steeped in magical neorealism, is a testament to his belief that great stories have the power to change lives. “Through our films, we aim to reflect the complexities of the human spirit and the beauty of our cultural heritage,” he said. “By doing so, we hope to inspire, provoke thought, and foster a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.”
Our conversation naturally flowed into the future, with Julio sharing his excitement about his upcoming projects. “Our debut feature film, ‘Bestiary,’ is set to premiere soon,” he revealed, a hint of pride in his voice. “I’m also working on our following feature titled ‘A Figment of Your Imagination,’ and our next film set in Bali currently in development. Living here allows me to research and write in an environment that inspires me.” His choice to reside in Bali is not just about the serene beauty of the island but also about the rich cultural serenity that fuels his creativity. Julio’s connection to Bali is deeply personal, a source of inspiration that continually shapes his work.
Reflecting on his journey, Julio’s humble nature and deep connection to his roots stood out. Despite his global achievements, he remained grounded, always returning to the core of what makes his storytelling unique. “It’s about the people, the experiences, and the emotions that shape us,” he said. “That’s what I want to capture in my stories.” Julio’s passion for storytelling was palpable, and it was clear that his journey was far from over. “We’re just getting started,” he said with a smile. “There’s so much more to explore, so many stories yet to be told.”
As our interview came to an end, Julio’s Norwegian partner appeared, her sharp ocean eyes signalling it was time for him to leave. They rode off into the sunset, a picture of serenity and contentment. I was left with a sense of awe and inspiration, grateful for the opportunity to glimpse into the world of such a remarkable storyteller.
As I watched them disappear into the horizon, I couldn’t help but feel a renewed sense of purpose. Julio’s journey was a reminder that great stories come from the heart, and that the power of cinema lies in its ability to connect us all, transcending boundaries and bringing us closer together.
Julio Rionaldo’s cinematic garden is a testament to the magic of filmmaking. From the fringes of Hollywood, to the bustling streets of Jakarta, to the serene landscapes of Bali, his journey is a beacon of creativity and resilience. Through his work, he fosters a deeper understanding of our shared humanity, one story at a time. I realized that his story is a beacon of hope for aspiring filmmakers everywhere, a reminder that great stories can change lives and bridge cultures.
Julio’s upcoming projects, including his debut feature film ‘Bestiary,’ are a testament to his boundless creativity and ambition. As he continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, he remains committed to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers through Kinosuite International. His vision for the future is one of inclusivity and empowerment, a platform where diverse voices can find a home.
As I concluded my interview with Julio, I felt a profound sense of hope and inspiration. His journey from Hollywood to Bali is a testament to the power of storytelling, a reminder that great stories have the ability to change lives and bridge cultures. Cinema is a celebration of the human spirit, a beacon of creativity and resilience that continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
I often reflect on my encounter with Julio. His ability to blend the extraordinary with the mundane, to create narratives that resonate with universal truths, is a gift that transcends boundaries. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering belief in the power of storytelling are lessons that I carry with me. And as I navigate the vibrant streets of my own village, I am reminded that great stories can change lives, bridge cultures, and connect us all.
As a journalist, I am honored to have shared an afternoon with Julio Rionaldo, a kindred spirit whose vision continues to inspire. His ability to infuse his narratives with a sense of wonder and magic is a testament to his unique perspective on life. Julio’s work is a celebration of the human spirit, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is beauty to be found in our shared experiences.
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Maya Olivia, a spirited journalist from a small village in Kalimantan, is on a quest to explore and capture the world’s most captivating experiences. Driven by curiosity and a love for storytelling, she seeks to uncover hidden gems and share them with the world.
**) Tulisan Opini ini sepenuhnya adalah tanggung jawab penulis, tidak menjadi bagian tanggung jawab redaksi kopinspirasi.com
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