Netflix's latest hit The Shadow Strays, trending in 85 countries, blending action and emotional depth with captivating characters.

The Shadow Strays: A Global Netflix Sensation in 85 Countries


Explore Netflix’s latest hit The Shadow Strays, trending in 85 countries, blending action and emotional depth with captivating characters.


Inside Netflix’s Blockbuster: The Shadow Strays

In just six days, The Shadow Strays, Netflix’s newest Indonesian original film, has stormed the Global Top 10 list for non-English films, captivating audiences worldwide. Directed by Timo Tjahjanto, the action-packed film has secured spots in the Top 10 in 85 countries, including the U.S., U.K., Japan, and Indonesia. Timo, who has previously collaborated with martial arts legends like Iko Uwais in The Night Comes for Us and worked on the action-comedy The Big 4, has delivered his most ambitious project yet.

A Deeper Dive into Characters’ Emotional Journeys

While The Shadow Strays is loaded with high-octane action scenes, the film also takes viewers on a journey through the layered emotional experiences of its characters. The storyline revolves around the lead character, 13, who grapples with unhealed trauma from her childhood. Timo described the film as more than just an action thriller—it’s a story about love and the human need for connection. As 13 navigates her past, she forms a bond with a young boy, Monji, and simultaneously deals with the complex relationship she shares with her mentor, Umbra.
Timo explains that 13’s relationship with Umbra goes beyond the typical mentor-student dynamic. Umbra taught 13 how to be a ruthless killer, but 13 yearns for her approval and affection, making their bond fraught with emotional tension.

Casting the Perfect Lead Actresses

Timo trusted his instincts when casting Aurora Ribero and Hana Malasan for the roles of 13 and Umbra, respectively, even though neither had previously taken on action roles. Aurora portrays 13 as someone who seems tough on the outside but harbors a deep need for love. In her own words, “13 is going through an existential crisis, trying to find meaning in her life. Although she sees Umbra as a mother figure, their relationship is extremely complicated.”
Hana further explained that while Umbra may seem cold, she too hides a softer, more maternal side. This blend of fierce action with emotionally-driven character development makes their relationship stand out in the film.

Complexity in the Villain: Prasetyo’s Character

The film doesn’t fall into the trap of making its villains one-dimensional. Adipati Dolken’s portrayal of Prasetyo, a corrupt cop, adds depth to the story. His character is driven by a strong sense of loyalty to his friends, whom he views as family. According to Adipati, Prasetyo’s protective instincts come from a place of love, though his actions may appear misguided at times.
Prasetyo’s motivations are clear—he’s willing to go to extreme lengths to protect the ones he cares about. This complexity gives audiences a layered villain who isn’t simply evil for the sake of it but is acting out of a deeply human desire to shield his loved ones from harm.

Weapons Reflect Character Depth

Timo masterfully aligns each character’s weapon with their personality. Prasetyo, for instance, isn’t a physically intimidating antagonist but uses his influence and squad to exert control. Meanwhile, 13 wields smaller, more precise weapons, fitting for an assassin in training. In contrast, Umbra, a seasoned killer, uses a more violent black katana, underscoring her lethal expertise.

Action-Packed Sequences and Martial Arts Fusion

The film’s fight scenes are nothing short of breathtaking. From chaotic nightclub brawls to intense car stunts, The Shadow Strays leaves no stone unturned in delivering thrilling action. Stunt coordinators Muhammad Irfan and Trisna Irawan expertly choreographed the combat scenes, incorporating various martial arts styles, including silat and kickboxing.
For cast members familiar with martial arts, Irfan allowed them to infuse their own techniques into the choreography. This creative freedom added a layer of authenticity to the action, making each fight feel uniquely suited to the characters.

Behind the Scenes of the Epic Action

Preparing for the physically demanding roles wasn’t easy for the cast. Aurora, who had no prior action experience, underwent four months of rigorous training. Her resilience, despite the difficulties, impressed the entire crew. Irfan recalled how Aurora would often retreat to the shower room during training sessions to cry, only to return and push herself harder.
One of the most challenging scenes to shoot was an epic warehouse fight that included car stunts and hand-to-hand combat. Filmed over 12 grueling nights, Timo described the shoot as the hardest of his career. “The warehouse was filled with mosquitoes and dust, and working through the night made it even tougher,” he shared.
The Shadow Strays is now streaming exclusively on Netflix, offering viewers a mix of intense action and deeply human storytelling that transcends typical genre boundaries.

Source: Netflix

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