The future of Indonesian comedy films was the focus of a discussion titled “Comedy from Warkop to Agak Laen,” held as part of the Kreatif Merdeka Carnival 2026 series at PFN Heritage, Jakarta, on Wednesday (26/8/2026).

The discussion, organized by Pusat Produksi Film Negara (PFN), featured critic, director and film academic Joko Nugroho; director and actor Harry De Fretes; and senior comedian Didin Bonito of the Bagito group. The forum was attended by hundreds of students and teachers from film schools and secondary education institutions across Jabodetabek.

The three speakers discussed the development of Indonesian comedy from the Warkop era to the film Agak Laen, while also highlighting the regeneration of industry players, changing audience tastes, creative freedom, and the challenges young filmmakers face in film production and distribution.

Photo: Jakartakita.com/Edi Triyono

Didin Bonito encouraged the younger generation to start creating at an early age. In his view, comedy films are not only intended to make audiences laugh, but can also convey messages and inspire society. The growth of YouTube and TikTok was also seen as opening wider opportunities for young creators to explore various social issues through comedy stories.

Meanwhile, Harry De Fretes emphasized the importance of having the courage to raise stories that are close to the character and reality of Indonesian society. In his view, comedy continues to have an important place in society, especially as entertainment when social pressures increase.

Harry also viewed the success of Agak Laen as proof that comedy still has great strength in the national film market. He hoped PFN would not merely serve as a space or building, but would also actively produce quality comedy films.

Joko Nugroho highlighted changes in humor preferences across generations. According to him, Warkop and Agak Laen share similarities in their strength, but emerged in different eras. Therefore, dialogue between senior industry players and young creators is needed so that past experience can meet new perspectives.

Photo: Jakartakita.com/Edi Triyono

He also mentioned opportunities to develop family comedy and action comedy to reach audiences across generations. In the future, comedy films are expected to make increasing use of visual strength and action elements as audience characteristics change.

The discussion also revealed various obstacles faced by young filmmakers, ranging from script rejections and limited production costs and facilities to access to distribution and cinema screens. Participants hoped that activities such as Kreatif Merdeka Carnival could continue with more concrete support in the form of funding, production facilities, mentoring, and distribution access.

The discussion affirmed that the future of Indonesian comedy depends not only on the ability to make audiences laugh, but also on the courage to present relevant stories, create space for regeneration, and bring together creativity across generations. (Edi Triyono)