At the western tip of Flores, where fishing boats rock in the harbor and the sun sets behind the hills, lies Labuan Bajo. For most travelers, it is the gateway to Komodo National Park and home to the world’s largest lizard. For the people who live here, however, it is something more: a place of stories, rhythms, and traditions passed down through generations.
It is from this remarkable destination that “Echoes from the Land of the Dragon,” a film by Film Roxx, brings a story of Indonesia to the international stage. The film has been named the winner in the Best Ethnography category at the ART&TUR International Tourism Film Festival 2026, held in Ovar, Portugal, from October 27 to 30, 2026.
With a runtime of 8 minutes and 38 seconds, the film represented Indonesia in the festival’s official program and was screened during Film Session #7 on October 28 at the Escola de Artes e Officious in Ovar.
During that session, the film was screened alongside works from Portugal, Taiwan, Slovenia, Mexico, and any county. This recognition serves as a reminder that stories about Labuan Bajo can touch the hearts of audiences across countries and cultures.
“Echoes from the Land of the Dragon” Brings Labuan Bajo to the World Stage
Produced by Film Roxx, “Echoes from the Land of the Dragon” is a cinematic journey across Labuan Bajo, Indonesia, a land where breathtaking natural landscapes, rich marine biodiversity, and ancient traditions coexist in stunning harmony.
This film not only showcases the island’s natural beauty but also the deep connection between its people, their cultural heritage, and the world around them. From ancestral traditions to pristine waters and breathtaking landscapes, the film celebrates the richness of a place whose true value extends far beyond what meets the eye.
Originally created as an invitation to explore Indonesia, this film carries a deeper message: the beauty we witness today must not be taken for granted. This aligns with this year’s ART&TUR 2026 theme: Sustainability. Time. Community.
“My intention was to invite the world to discover Indonesia through the beauty of Labuan Bajo. But behind every breathtaking landscape and living tradition is something precious that we cannot assume will last forever. For me, this film has become more than an invitation to visit Indonesia. It is an invitation to care.” Aditya Ryanda, Director of “Echoes from the Land of the Dragon”
A Note of Thanks
“We are grateful to our entire team, to the people of Labuan Bajo who opened their doors and shared their stories, to the ART&TUR organizers and jury for their appreciation, and to everyone who supported this film from the beginning.”
– Ryanda Dwi Octhora, Executive Producer of Film Roxx
What’s Next
The recognition at ART&TUR 2026 is not the end of the journey. Film Roxx will continue to bring stories from Bali, Labuan Bajo, and across Indonesia to international film festivals, in the belief that local works can speak powerfully to the world.
