'%20x='0'%20y='0'%20height='100%25'%20width='100%25'%20%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20xlink%3Ahref='data:image/jpg;base64,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'%3E%3C/image%3E%3C/svg%3E)
The Shadow Strays, released on Netflix on 17 October 2024, takes viewers deep into Jakarta's dark and dangerous underworld. The fast-paced action film is shot across several gritty and atmospheric locations, adding intensity to the storyline. The choice of settings plays a crucial role in enhancing the film’s thrilling plot and stunning martial arts sequences.
The Shadow Strays follows the life of a young assassin known as 13, whose existence transforms upon encountering a vulnerable boy. The film adeptly illustrates the culture and scenery of Jakarta. Jakarta's diverse locales, ranging from vibrant streets to serene retreats, offer an ideal backdrop for the film's dynamic sequences.
Directed by Timo Tjahjanto, The Shadow Strays presents an intriguing story replete with swordplay, martial arts, and exhilarating action. Shortly after its release, the film achieved recognition in Netflix’s Global Top 10 non-English films, receiving a substantial audience across various countries.
Trending
The Shadow Strays filming locations
The Shadow Strays was predominantly filmed in Jakarta, Indonesia. The city's congested thoroughfares, imposing structures, and urban deterioration create an ideal setting for the intense drama. The film vividly depicts Jakarta's underworld, with its obscure corners and concealed locales intensifying the film's dark theme.
Jakarta's setting is important in creating tension throughout the film. The diverse combat sequences occur in alleys, deserted warehouses, and rooftops, establishing a vivid sense of location that engrosses the viewer in the action. Incorporating actual locations enhances the film's authenticity and intensity, allowing the audience to experience each punch and sword strike viscerally.
Additionally, Jakarta's sprawling urban environment mirrors the chaotic life of assassin 13. As she fights through gangs and corrupt forces, the city's labyrinth-like streets reflect the twists and turns in her journey. This visual storytelling through location elevates the film, making the setting as much a character as the actors.
The movie is a unique mix of action and story because it has intense martial arts scenes and an emotional core. The movie has more than just high-speed battles because of the relationship between 13 and the young boy Monji.
The fight choreography is what makes The Shadow Strays shine. Scenes with swords are exceptionally well done, showing off the skills of both the actors and the stunt team. People watching each fight are on the edge of their seats because the punches land hard, and the swords clash in a way that seems real.
Aokigahara, Japan - The Sea of Trees
Aokigahara Forest, commonly referred to as the "Sea of Trees" (Jukai), is located on the northwestern flank of Mount Fuji, Japan. This dense, mysterious forest covers 30 square kilometers of land formed by lava from Mount Fuji’s last eruption in 864 CE. Known for its quiet and eerie atmosphere, the forest is ideal for the darker, more introspective moments of The Shadow Strays.
The film uses Aokigahara to emphasize isolation and the internal struggles of the characters, especially the lead assassin, 13. The thick forests, tall trees, and rocky ground make for an almost otherworldly setting that raises the tension and gives the scenes a creepy, strange feel. The forest is tranquil compared to the fights and action scenes, which makes it a unique and memorable place to film.
Plot of The Shadow Strays
The film's story is about a young killer named 13 who is part of a dangerous group called the Shadow. 13 is sent to Jakarta to live alone when a mission goes wrong. While staying in a safe house, she meets a young boy named Monji, and the two become close. But 13 sets out to save Monji when a crime group takes him.
The movie is full of action scenes as 13 fights her way through different bad guys. With the help of her mentor, Umbra, she fights vicious gangs and dishonest government officials because she is determined to save Monji. The story is also driven by 13's feelings for Monji.
The cast and crew of The Shadow Strays
The Shadow Strays' cast is led by Aurora Ribero, who portrays the young assassin 13. Her performance is intense, capturing the physical and emotional depth required for the role. Hana Malasan stars as Umbra, 13’s mentor, while Ali Fikry plays Monji, the vulnerable boy who changes 13’s path.
The film’s director, Timo Tjahjanto, is known for his work in action cinema. He previously collaborated with top martial artists like Iko Uwais and Joe Taslim in The Night Comes for Us in 2019. In the film, Timo once again demonstrates his skill in choreographing action sequences, using the setting of Jakarta to enhance the film’s brutal and fast-paced style.
Other notable cast members include Andri Mashadi as Ariel, a crime boss, and Kristo Immanuel as Jeki, a henchman. The supporting roles, played by actors like Adipati Dolken and Agra Piliang, add layers to the film’s storyline.
The Shadow Strays is streaming on Netflix.
