Saur Sepuh: The Knight of Madangkara

Set at the end of the Majapahit era, Bre Wirabhumi, son of Hayamwuruk, but born from a concubine, demands his right to be king of Majapahit. The kingdom is then ruled by Wikramawardhana, son-in-law of Hayamwuruk. To rival Majapahit, Bre Wirabhumi creates the Pamotan kingdom and looks for allies amongst other kingdoms. This creates confusion among the kingdoms friendly with Majapahit. Brama Kumbara (Fendy Pradana) from the Madangkara kingdom tries to settle the dispute. What happens instead is a misunderstanding that leads to the death of Brama’s envoy. Even worst, the lover of the murderer, Lasmini (Murti Sari Dewi), takes revenge by kidnapping Brama’s wife. The conflict then escalates into the Paregreg war between Majapahit and Pamotan.

Directed by Imam Tantowi, Saur Sepuh: The Knight of Madangkara leans on a strong ensemble — Fendy Pradana, Anneke Putri, Elly Ermawati — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about action titles of 1988.