Bitter Honey (2014) is a poignant and mesmerizing Indonesian film that takes its audience on a deeply emotive and visually stunning journey into the mystical world of Balinese dance and spiritual rites. Directed by Robert Lemelson, this documentary-style movie captures the beauty, passion, and complexities of Balinese culture through the eyes of three remarkable protagonists: Luh Putu Anggreni, Suci Ati, and Darma.
At the heart of the film is Luh Putu Anggreni, an 11-year-old girl who possesses an incredible talent as a traditional Balinese dancer. Luh Putu comes from a humble background, raised by her single mother and siblings in a remote village. Despite their meager circumstances, her mother recognizes Luh Putu's potential and enrolls her in a local dance school. The camera follows Luh Putu through intense training sessions where she learns the intricate movements and symbolic gestures that define Balinese dance.
Luh Putu's story intertwines with that of Suci Ati, a middle-aged widow who is also a respected dance teacher. Suci Ati is an intriguing character who remains strongly rooted in her culture's traditions yet yearns for a more modern and independent life. As she navigates her own personal journey of self-discovery, Suci Ati becomes a mentor figure for Luh Putu.
Darma, a renowned Balinese dancer, completes the trio of protagonists. At the height of his career, Darma is adored by his fans and respected by his peers. However, his success comes at a personal cost as he increasingly becomes a victim of his own fame. The film delves into his struggles with drug addiction, exploring the darker side of a seemingly idyllic world.
Bitter Honey provides a unique insight into the customs and spirituality that underpin Balinese society. The film showcases mesmerizing dance sequences that fuse breathtaking choreography, colorful costumes, traditional music, and profound storytelling. The enchanting performances act as a thread connecting the characters, their dreams, and their inevitable confrontations with life's challenges.
While Balinese dance serves as the film's main focus, Bitter Honey also touches upon important social issues in Bali, including gender inequality and economic disparities. It highlights the hierarchies and inequalities that persist within the Balinese dance community, as well as the power dynamics between dancers, teachers, and the communities they belong to. The film prompts the audience to reflect on the delicate balance between preserving cultural heritage and evolving traditions.
Visually, Bitter Honey is a feast for the eyes. The vibrant landscapes of Bali, with its lush rice fields and misty forests, juxtapose against the gritty reality of the characters' lives. The cinematography captures the energy and grace of the dancers, often using slow-motion sequences to accentuate their movements. These artistic choices lend a dreamlike quality to the film and emphasize the profound emotional journeys experienced by the protagonists.
Emotionally compelling and beautifully crafted, Bitter Honey is a thought-provoking exploration of self-discovery, resilience, and the timeless power of art. The film immerses its viewers in the rich tapestry of Balinese culture and invites them to contemplate the universal themes of dreams, sacrifice, and the pursuit of happiness. Through the intimate stories of Luh Putu Anggreni, Suci Ati, and Darma, Bitter Honey leaves a lasting impression, reminding us of the transformative power of dedication, passion, and the bittersweet nature of life itself.
Bitter Honey is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4 and a MetaScore of 62.
