Bolehkah Sekali Saja Kumenangis is a poignant exploration of pain, resilience, and human complexity, anchored by a compelling performance from Prilly Latuconsina as Tari. Directed with sensitivity and emotional depth, the film delves into the lives of individuals seeking solace in a support group, where personal struggles intertwine in ways both heartbreaking and cathartic. Under the guidance of Nina (Widi Mulia), the group members come together to share their burdens, creating a space where vulnerability is met with understanding.
Among these individuals is Agoy (Kristo Immanuel), haunted by regret over dismissing his late father's final wishes, and Ica (Ummi Quary), a comedian forced by societal expectations to maintain a cheerful facade despite her inner turmoil. While these subplots do not demand deep exploration, their presence serves as a mirror for viewers who may see reflections of their own struggles. The film acknowledges these everyday battles, reinforcing the idea that no one is truly alone in their pain.
At the heart of the story is Tari, who endures a harrowing domestic life. She lives with her parents, Devi (Dominique Sanda) and Pras (Surya Saputra). Pras is an abusive figure, whose menacing presence is amplified by Surya Saputra’s chilling portrayal. His heavy breathing and stammering rage paint a picture of a man battling inner demons, yet his actions remain reprehensible. Devi, on the other hand, is trapped in a cycle of denial, clinging to the hope that her husband will change despite Tari's repeated pleas for her to leave. This dynamic raises profound questions about agency, culpability, and the psychological shackles of abusive relationships. Is Devi at fault for Tari’s suffering? Is her inability to leave a sign of weakness, or does it speak to something far more intricate? The film does not offer easy answers, instead encouraging the audience to engage in introspection and discussion.
Parallel to Tari’s journey is Baskara (Pradikta Wicaksono), a new employee at her office. Once a promising basketball star with a bright future, his career was derailed by a fateful mistake. The script, penned by Junisya Aurelita, Santy Diliana, Rezy Junio, and Alim Sudio, masterfully weaves his story into the larger narrative, demonstrating how past wounds shape present realities. His interactions with Tari are tender yet restrained, refusing to succumb to melodramatic romance. Instead, their relationship is built on mutual understanding and quiet support, allowing their arcs to remain central rather than being overshadowed by an overt love story.
What elevates Bolehkah Sekali Saja Kumenangis beyond standard drama fare is its articulate and thought-provoking script. The dialogues are not just poetic or quotable but serve as windows into the characters' psyches. The film embraces the messiness of human emotions, never reducing its characters to mere victims or heroes. Instead, it presents them as fully realized individuals navigating a world that often lacks easy solutions.
With powerful performances, a nuanced screenplay, and a deeply empathetic approach to its subject matter, Bolehkah Sekali Saja Kumenangis is a film that lingers long after the credits roll. It does not merely depict pain—it humanizes it, offering a poignant reminder that healing, while complex, is never a solitary journey.
Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times