In celebration of World Philosophy Day, the Faculty of Philosophy at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) hosted two film screenings and discussions: Setan Jawa directed by Garin Nugroho on Monday, November 25, and Sejarah Kisah-Kisah yang Musnah by B.W. Purbanegara on Tuesday, November 26. Both events took place at the Faculty of Philosophy, drawing participants from UGM students as well as the general public.
Setan Jawa, a silent film set in colonial Java, tells a story of love, rage, and betrayal, filled with symbolism and visual allure. The screening was attended by Garin Nugroho, the director, and Herlambang Yudho, an alumni of UGM’s Faculty of Philosophy, who joined the discussion as a speaker. The discussion, moderated by Christopher Andrew Haryadi, a UGM Philosophy student, focused on the philosophical and artistic dimensions of the film.
During the discussion, Garin shared his creative process, explaining how the film serves as a reflection on traditional values and modernity. Herlambang highlighted the deep philosophical messages embedded in Setan Jawa, encouraging the audience to reflect on the complexities of love, sacrifice, and the relationship between humans and tradition.
The following day, the Faculty of Philosophy hosted a similar event with the screening of Sejarah Kisah-Kisah yang Musnah by B.W. Purbanegara. This film explores untold stories, presenting narratives without clear names or characters, inviting the audience to piece together a story from fragments.
The post-screening discussion featured B.W. Purbanegara, the director of Sejarah Kisah-Kisah yang Musnah, and Suluh Pamuji from KDM Cinema as speakers. Together, they explored how film can serve as a philosophical medium for reflecting on erased histories and forgotten figures.
Both events received enthusiastic responses from students, faculty, and the general public. “Setan Jawa and Sejarah Kisah-Kisah yang Musnah are two artistic works that not only captivate visually but also offer profound philosophical depth,” said one of the participants.
Through these film screenings and discussions, UGM’s Faculty of Philosophy reaffirmed its commitment to bringing philosophy closer to the public. The events provided a platform for reflection, raising awareness of the importance of philosophy in understanding art, history, and the human experience.