In Jakarta in 1946, following the Proclamation of Independence, the city is engulfed in turmoil. The Dutch return alongside the Allied Forces (British), reinforced by Gurkha troops (India). Amid these difficult circumstances, Isa (Chicco Jerikho), a teacher and war veteran, struggles to earn a living. Determined to defend his country and provide for his wife, Fatimah (Ariel Tatum), and their child, Isa joins a resistance mission with his fellow fighter, Hazil (Jerome Kurnia). As time passes, Isa, Hazil, and Fatimah must confront dilemmas involving love and friendship in their lives.

Perang Kota (This City Is a Battlefield) is loosely adapted from the acclaimed 1952 novel Jalan Tak Ada Ujung by journalist and literary figure Mochtar Lubis. Director Mouly Surya previously made Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts (2017), which won Citra Awards for Best Feature Film, Best Director, and Best Actress at the 2018 Indonesian Film Festival (FFI). Screened as the closing film at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (2025), the film contains scenes of violence and adult content and has been classified by the Indonesian Film Censorship Institution (LSF) for audiences aged 17 and above. Be discerning in selecting content suitable for your age. (anq)