Indonesian Film “Norma” Explores Scandal of Affair With Mother-in-Law

In Indonesia, a film titled Norma has captured national attention by dramatizing a real-life scandal involving a man’s affair with his mother-in-law. The film, which premiered in cinemas in March 2023 and later on Netflix in August, is based on the true story of Norma Risma from Serang City, Java. In 2022, she exposed her husband’s infidelity through a viral TikTok video, amassing millions of views and leading to a film adaptation that resonates with audiences across Southeast Asia.

The popularity of Norma reflects a growing trend in Indonesian cinema where filmmakers adapt viral social media stories. The film quickly became one of the most-watched titles not only in Indonesia but also in countries like Malaysia and Singapore, which have substantial Malay-Muslim populations. This phenomenon follows the success of other films like KKN di Desa Penari, a horror film that was previously Indonesia’s highest-grossing movie, and Sewu Dino, both based on popular online narratives.

Viral Scandals and Cultural Curiosity

The themes presented in Norma tap into a voyeuristic fascination with domestic scandals in a country where such issues are often shrouded in taboo. Adultery is illegal in Indonesia, and under the new criminal code set to take effect in 2024, extramarital sex will be outlawed. Yet, the film’s release coincides with a cultural trend where stories of infidelity and betrayal have become fodder for public entertainment.

According to SM Gietty Tambunan, a member of the Jakarta Arts Council Film Committee, these films provide a glimpse into others’ private lives, appealing to audiences intrigued by the conflicts that arise within traditional family structures. “With films about these scandals, people are given a space to peek into someone else’s household problems,” she explains.

The narrative follows Norma as she navigates the emotional turmoil of discovering her mother, Rihanah, in an affair with her husband, Rozy. Viewers have expressed strong reactions to the film, with many empathizing with Norma’s plight. Vero, a housewife from Jakarta, described feeling “furious” at the betrayal, stating that she wanted to witness the cruelty faced by Norma in the film.

Empowerment Through Storytelling

What distinguishes Norma from other adaptations is the active involvement of its protagonist in the creative process. Screenwriter Oka Aurora collaborated closely with Norma, shaping the narrative while ensuring it remained true to her lived experiences. “After intense discussions about her feelings and her mother’s backstory, the film’s core story remains broadly consistent,” Oka said, acknowledging that some parts were dramatized to enhance emotional impact.

The film has sparked discussions around infidelity and the societal pressures women face. Gietty cautions that narratives like Norma often place disproportionate blame on women, with the men involved facing little consequence. Nonetheless, the film has been described as a “small step for women to speak out about the infidelity and violence they face,” according to Oka.

In her public statements, Norma has expressed gratitude for the support she has received, stating that sharing her story has resonated with many who have experienced similar betrayals. “When I spoke up, many people had experienced the same thing,” she reflected during a press appearance.

As the film continues to perform well, it remains to be seen how it will influence conversations about infidelity and women’s rights in Indonesia. Norma’s journey, both on-screen and in real life, serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities surrounding love, trust, and betrayal in a society grappling with traditional values and modern realities.