Ateng Makes You Dizzy

Ateng is spoiled by his grandmother and this troubles his parents since Ateng is a little mentally challenged and needs special education from a teacher. The presence of Iskak, a village kid who is adopted and brought there to accompany Ateng is also a worry as Iskak always has ideas for his own profit. Ateng becomes very dependent on Iskak, so when Iskak is told to leave after he is accused of stealing a neighbor’s watch (though unproven), Ateng is very upset. Then he climbs up a water tower and refuses to come down until Iskak returns.

Directed by Hasmanan, Ateng Makes You Dizzy leans on a strong ensemble — Ateng, Wolly Sutinah, Iskak — 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 comedy titles of 1977.