Garin Nugroho — Director | Biography, Movies & Career

Biography

Garin Nugroho Riyanto (born June 6, 1961, in Yogyakarta) is a renowned Indonesian film director, screenwriter, and producer. He first gained widespread recognition after releasing his film Cinta dalam Sepotong Roti (A Slice of Love) in 1990. His works have often transcended national boundaries and earned international acclaim.

One of his most notable films is Surat untuk Bidadari (Letter to an Angel) (1992), which brought him to the international film stage. Additionally, his film Daun di Atas Bantal (Leaf on a Pillow) (1998) became the first Indonesian film to be screened at the Cannes Film Festival. Garin is also well-known for other works such as Opera Jawa (2006) and Kucumbu Tubuh Indahku (Memories of My Body) (2018).

His recent film, Whispers in the Dabbas (Nyanyi Sunyi dalam Rantang), premiered at the 54th International Film Festival Rotterdam in 2025.

Throughout his career, Garin Nugroho has received numerous awards, including the Tempo Best Director Award in 2024 for his film Samsara. He is also recognized as a driving force behind various important cultural activities in Indonesia.

With his dedication and innovation, Garin Nugroho continues to make significant contributions to the development of Indonesian cinema and culture.