Chand Parwez: Film Censorship Enlightens the Industry

Jakarta – Building a healthy, ethical, and sustainable film ecosystem is essential. The Film Censorship Institution of the Republic of Indonesia (LSF RI) plays a vital role in maintaining the balance between creativity and social responsibility.

“The real challenge lies in creating films that have meaning films that make us better human beings,” said Chand Parwez Servia, film producer and founder of Kharisma Starvision Plus, during the LSF Expert Discussion titled “The Ecosystem of Indonesia’s Film Industry” in Jakarta, Monday (October 20, 2025).

Parwez emphasized that censorship should not be viewed as a limitation on creativity but as a tool for enlightenment and quality assurance in Indonesian cinema.

“I truly appreciate LSF openness to dialogue. The idealism behind film censorship is not about restricting art, it's about making filmmaking smarter and more meaningful,” he noted.

Moderated by Hadi Artomo, Chair of LSF Censorship Sub Commission, the discussion also featured Nusantara H.K. Mulkan, Chair of LSF Publication Sub Commission, who highlighted shifting audience behavior in the digital age particularly the migration toward over-the-top (OTT) platforms. He asked Parwez about Starvision’s production direction amid this changing landscape.

Responding to the question, Parwez affirmed that theatrical releases remain Starvision’s top priority in film distribution.

“That’s where the real thrill and challenge lie for filmmakers. OTT platforms are exciting, but the direct connection with audiences in a cinema watching reactions unfold on the big screen is far more rewarding,” he explained. (Des/Nuz)