Jakarta. The Indonesian film industry will soon launch the religious drama "Air Mata Mualaf" ('Tears of a Convert') in its theaters nationwide. However, the film is also aiming to reach the hearts of fellow ASEAN and Middle Eastern audiences.

"Air Mata Mualaf" tells the story of a woman who converts to Islam after going through a toxic relationship. The story zeroes in on her inner struggles in facing her family's opposition. Famous actress Acha Septriasa plays the protagonist Anggi, a woman who wishes to stand by her decision without hurting those closest to her. The movie is slated for release in Indonesian theaters on Nov. 27. However, there are plans to expand its release to Southeast Asia and the Middle East in early December.

Rather than preaching, the film directed by Indra Gunawan invites its audience to reflect on how guidance often comes at the most unexpected times.

"Anggie is a figure who chooses without hatred and moves forward without anger. She knows what she feels is the truth, but she also loves her family deeply. This role reminds me that choosing my own path is not an act of abandonment, but the courage to be true to oneself," Acha told a press conference in Jakarta on Wednesday.

Indra revealed that he wanted to portray people "as they are".

"Everyone has been at a point where they have to choose their own path, and that's the process we are trying to show," Indra said.

This film also symbolizes cross-cultural collaboration, involving the Indonesian, Malaysian, and Australian film industries. The international cast -- Syamim Freida, Hazman Al Idrus, and Matthew Williams -- brings new color to the creative process, emphasizing that stories about family and the search for meaning in life are universal.

Add as a preferred source on Google +