WEI 2016
In WEI (2016), short but impactful director Samuel Rustandi crafts a tender drama that unfolds during Eid Mubarak, where Mei—a Chinese-Indonesian woman who embraced Islam—steps into her father's world with a gesture meant to bridge decades of difference.
Director: Samuel Rustandi
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is WEI (2016) about?
WEI follows Mei, a Chinese-Indonesian Muslim woman, who tries to reconnect with her father—a traditional pork rib soup restaurateur—by cooking him a chicken dish for Eid Mubarak. The film captures a tender, generational clash softened by the universal language of food and shared heritage.
Who directed WEI?
WEI was directed by Samuel Rustandi, known for his ability to blend cultural depth with intimate storytelling in short films.
Who stars in WEI?
The cast of WEI includes Henky Solaiman, Dayu Wijanto, Franky Chandra, Ronny P. Tjandra, and Kevin Reynard, alongside Marlinda Liang.
Is WEI (2016) worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, WEI's thoughtful exploration of family reconciliation and cultural identity makes it a compelling watch for fans of drama. Its concise runtime and emotional resonance are its strongest assets, offering both warmth and subtle tension.
How long is WEI?
WEI has a runtime of 22 minutes.
WEI (2016): A Heartfelt Drama About Family and Forgiveness
In WEI (2016), short but impactful director Samuel Rustandi crafts a tender drama that unfolds during Eid Mubarak, where Mei—a Chinese-Indonesian woman who embraced Islam—steps into her father's world with a gesture meant to bridge decades of difference. Her father, a proud owner of a legendary Bak Kut Teh restaurant, has built a life on tradition, flavored by pork and the unspoken weight of heritage. When Mei prepares a chicken dish (opor ayam) and presents it on the holy day, she's not just sharing a meal—she's offering a fragile olive branch across cultural and religious divides, testing whether love can soften years of distance. Set against the bustling backdrop of Indonesian family life, the film captures a quiet but powerful moment of connection, where food becomes both barrier and bridge.
Directed with warmth and restraint, WEI explores themes of identity, belonging, and the universal language of food as a tool for reconciliation. With a runtime of just 22 minutes, Rustandi delivers a story that lingers, blending cultural specificity with emotional universality. The atmosphere is intimate and observant, allowing the nuances of family dynamics to breathe while celebrating the small acts that can reignite lost bonds.