“Mothernet” Blends AI and Heartfelt Storytelling – A Must-Watch for 2025

“Mothernet” Explores the Intersection of Humanity and Technology

“Mothernet,” a highly anticipated drama film, delves into the evolving bond between humans and technology, with Ho Wi Ding at the helm as director.

Known for his critically acclaimed works, including “Pinoy Sunday” and “Cities of Last Things,” Ho Wi Ding brings his storytelling prowess to this poignant family drama set in Indonesia's near future.

The narrative centres on 16-year-old Rama, whose life is upended after a tragic accident leaves his mother in a coma.

Utilising an artificial intelligence (AI) program, Rama and his father embark on a transformative journey of reconnection and healing.

Stellar Cast and Multinational Production

The film stars prominent Indonesian actors Dian Sastrowardoyo, recognised for her role in Netflix’s “Cigarette Girl,” and Ringgo Agus Rahman, known for “Falling in Love Like in Movies.”

Dian Sastrowardoyo, as the mother

Rising star Ali Fikri, who appeared in “24 Hours with Gaspar,” plays the role of the young Rama.

Ali Fikri, as the main character and the son

Principal photography is underway in Indonesia, with virtual scenes being filmed in Singapore at X3D Studio, a leading virtual production facility managed by Refinery Media, reputed to be the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia.

Inside X3D Studio (Source: X3D Studio)

The production is set to continue through the third quarter of 2024, with an expected release in 2025.

Collaborative Efforts and Production Partners

“Mothernet” is a joint venture among Indonesia’s BASE Entertainment, Beacon Film, and Singapore-based Refinery Media.

BASE Entertainment, renowned for the success of “Impetigore” and “Cigarette Girl,” teams up with Beacon Film, founded by actor Dian Sastrowardoyo.

The project also benefits from the expertise of Vietnamese producer Winnie Lau, who is behind notable productions such as “Thai Cave Rescue” and “Impetigore.”

Shanty Harmayn, BASE’s founder and co-CEO, emphasised, “This film [places an] emphasis on love, life and real human connections in an age of ever-growing digital relations between humans.”

Who is Ho Wi Ding

Ho Wi Ding, the director of “Mothernet,” is a prominent figure in Asian cinema.

Born and raised in Malaysia, he studied film at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts and now resides in Taipei.

His 2010 film “Pinoy Sunday” won him the Best New Director Award at the 47th Golden Horse Awards, while “Cities of Last Things” garnered the Platform Prize at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival.

His short films, “Respire” and “Summer Afternoon,” have also received accolades, including the Kodak Discovery Award and Best Fantasy Short Film Award at various international festivals.

Innovative Filmmaking and Industry Impact

Karen Seah, founder of Refinery Media and X3D Studio, lauded the project, stating,

“The film represents a new era in Southeast Asian filmmaking… by combining our strengths, we are committed to producing a film that sets new industry benchmarks.”

Wi Ding, reflecting on his directorial role, noted,

“[I] loved the script because not only is it an exceptional cautionary tale about humans’ attachment to technology, but it also touches on a family dynamic that [I’m] already well-experienced with.”

He further commented,

“People grieve differently. There are different ways of grieving. No right or wrong. The only wrong approach is to be stuck in the past.”

Production Status and Sales

BASE Entertainment is currently managing the international rights to “Mothernet,” as no sales agent is presently attached to the project.

The film promises to be a profound exploration of digital and human connections, reflecting a new direction in Southeast Asian cinema.