The Shadow Strays (2024) is an upcoming Indonesian action crime thriller film directed and written by Timo Tjahjanto. Set to be released on Netflix on October 17, 2024, the film stars Aurora Ribero as Codename 13, a skilled 17-year-old assassin who finds herself suspended after a failed mission in Japan. During her downtime, she encounters an 11-year-old boy named Monji, who has just lost his mother to a ruthless crime syndicate. When Monji is subsequently captured, Codename 13 embarks on a relentless quest to rescue him, defying her mentor and the shadowy organization that trained her.
The narrative explores themes of loyalty, morality, and the consequences of violence as Codename 13 battles not only the criminals who threaten Monji but also her own organization, known as The Shadow. The film is characterized by its intense action sequences and emotional depth, showcasing Tjahjanto's ability to blend martial arts with poignant storytelling. Critics have noted that while the film delivers on action and carnage, it also takes time to explore character development and the emotional stakes involved in Codename 13's mission.
The Shadow Strays had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 10, 2024, where it was featured in the Midnight Madness section. Early reviews have been positive, with an approval rating of 86% on Rotten Tomatoes based on initial critic feedback. The film's runtime is approximately 143 minutes and is presented in Indonesian.
Overall, The Shadow Strays promises to be an engaging addition to the action genre, combining thrilling fight scenes with a compelling narrative about redemption and the fight against systemic evil. As anticipation builds for its Netflix release, audiences are eager to see how Tjahjanto's vision unfolds on screen.