Introduction
“Merantau” is an Indonesian action drama feature due for release April 2009. Written and directed by award winning filmmaker Gareth Evans the film showcases Silat Harimau (with choreography from renowned master Edwel Datuk Rajo Gampo Alam and Team Silat Harimau). “Merantau” will also introduce to the world Indonesia’s rising action star and Silat Tiga Berantai expert, Iko Uwais.

For the past 5 months Iko has been trained in Silat Harimau to perform the complex choreography designed for the film to be shot on location in both West Sumatra and Jakarta.

Production begins November 2008.

Synopsis:
In Minangkabau, West Sumatera, Yuda a skilled practitioner of Silat Harimau is in the final preparations to begin his “Merantau” a century’s old rites-of-passage to be carried out by the community’s young men that will see him leave the comforts of his idyllic farming village and make a name for himself in the bustling city of Jakarta.

After a series of setbacks leave Yuda homeless and uncertain about his new future, a chance encounter results in him defending the orphaned Astri from becoming the latest victim of a European human trafficking ring led by the wildly psychotic, Ratger and his right-hand man Luc.

With Ratger injured in the melee and seeking both his “merchandise” and bloody retribution, Yuda’s introduction to this bustling city is a baptism of fire as he is forced to go on the run with Astri and her younger brother Adit as all the pimps and gangsters that inhabit the night hound the streets chasing their every step. With escape seemingly beyond their grasp, Yuda has no choice but to face his attackers in an adrenaline charged, jaw-dropping finale.

Official Site - (site launch due October 1st 2008)
http://www.merantau-movie.com