Imperfect

Imperfect is a heartfelt Indonesian drama that explores beauty standards, self-worth, and the pressure to conform in modern society. The film follows Rara, a smart and capable woman who is constantly overlooked at work and in her personal life because she does not fit society’s narrow definition of beauty. As she transforms herself to gain acceptance, Rara is forced to confront what success, confidence, and happiness truly mean.

With humour and emotional depth, Imperfect offers a powerful commentary on body image, gender expectations, and social bias in contemporary Indonesia. The film encourages viewers to reflect on how societal norms shape identity and how embracing differences can lead to genuine self-acceptance.

Both entertaining and thought-provoking, Imperfect provides an accessible entry point for discussions about diversity, mental wellbeing, and social pressure among young people.

Find the Imperfect learning resource to support use of the film in your classroom.

Note to teachers: The film addresses themes of body shaming and social discrimination, which may prompt meaningful classroom discussion but could be sensitive for some viewers.

The screening of this Indonesian film includes a pre-screening dance performance, and a post-screening interactive ketupat weaving workshop for students.

The Indonesian Film Festival (IFF) is an annual event organised by the Melbourne University Indonesian Student Association (MUISA) to celebrate Indonesian cinema.

The education screening encourages understanding of how language and culture shape identity in Indonesia. The education screening features an Indonesian film and an interactive cultural workshop, where students can take part and learn directly about Indonesian culture, which has been designed to align with the Victorian Curriculum.

Imperfect learning resource