Raminten Universe (Jagad'e Raminten)

About this movie

Nestled among the Islamic mosques and Catholic churches of Yogyakarta-a special region in Indonesia renowned for its traditional Javanese aristocratic culture-emerges a wild-card establishment embracing diversity: the vibrant and beloved Raminten. Raminten, a Javanese Queer Mother, not only upholds and embraces Javanese traditional culture but also nurtures the people of Yogyakarta, much like a mother would- through their own unique modern approach, the Raminten way. Created by Mr. Hamzah during an appearance on a local TV station, Raminten is depicted as a mature Javanese woman dressed in traditional kebaya attire, complete with a batik sarong, a bun (konde) hairstyle, and her signature glasses. This image of a Javanese mother has become iconic and popular, especially in Yogyakarta, where the character now serves as the trademark of Mr. Hamzah's establishments: the one-stop souvenir store Hamzah Batik, the House of Raminten restaurant, and the renowned Raminten Cabaret, and many more. The Raminten Cabaret, held every Friday and Saturday evening, is a highly sought-after drag performance show and a must-see tourist attraction. Though it is a drag show, many assume it serves as a space exclusively for trans and queer individuals to express their gender and sexuality. However, this is not entirely accurate, as most of the performers are cisgender, with some even identifying as heterosexual. Above all, Raminten Cabaret is a safe space for everyone. The show is a serious production and a work of performance art, featuring professional artists, some of whom hold degrees from prestigious art institutions. While it has garnered widespread praise and numerous accolades, including recognition from the Yogyakarta Sultanate, the show has also encountered its share of challenges. Mr. Hamzah, the founder and visionaire behind Raminten, is now past his prime. With Raminten's success and its profound cultural and personal impact on Yogyakarta, its people, and especially their chosen family, what does the future hold for this beloved institution? And what will be the legacy of such an iconic figure in Yogyakarta?

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