How a Man’s Affair with His Mother‑in‑Law Became a Viral Film in Indonesia!
Sele Media Africa
www.selemedia.org
Reported by David Joshua– Sele Media Africa Reporter
Serang, Indonesia — A shocking true story that went viral in 2022 has now been adapted into a major motion picture as Indonesians grapple with social taboos, betrayal, and the costs of exposure. The film, titled Norma: Antara Mertua dan Menantu (“Norma: Between Mother‑in‑Law and Son‑in‑Law”), is based on the experiences of a woman named Norma Risma who discovered her husband was having an affair with her mother. The fallout was scandalous — and the story captivated social media, film studios, and the public alike. [1]
🎬 Key Points
- Origins on TikTok: In late 2022, Norma published a TikTok video in which she exposed her husband, Rozy, and her own mother, Rina, confirming their affair. The video spread rapidly, generating millions of views and widespread condemnation. [2]
- – Adaptation into Film: The seriousness of the story led to its adaptation into a full‑length feature film. Norma herself collaborated with the screenwriter, Oka Aurora, ensuring the movie retained much of the emotional truth of her lived experience. The film was released theatrically in Indonesia in March 2025 and made available on Netflix on August 14, 2025. [1]
- Plot & Context: Norma’s marriage begins seemingly happy, with her husband maintaining close ties to Norma’s family. But behind the façade, his secret affair with Rina (Norma’s mother) unravels everything. The betrayal shatters Norma’s trust and family structure, creating a scandal in their community. [1]
🔍 Cultural & Societal Reactions
- Public Fascination & Outrage: In a deeply conservative society where adultery is taboo and considered a criminal offense, the story ignited strong emotions. Many were horrified by the betrayal, while others were drawn to the drama, underscoring how social media has amplified such private disputes into public spectacles. [3]
- Legal Consequences: Norma’s mother was sentenced to eight months in prison for adultery, while her ex ‑ husband Rozy got nine months. This underscores that in Indonesia, such acts can lead to legal repercussions, not just social condemnation. [2]
💡 Why It Hits Home for Many
- The film is more than entertainment — it’s viewed by many as a form of catharsis and a mirror to society’s hidden truths about marriage, loyalty, and moral rupture.
- For women especially, Norma’s courage to speak out, first through video and then through film, has become a rallying point. Many see her story as giving strength to those who’ve suffered similar betrayals in silence. [1]
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