Derby Romero's New Film Features Samosir and Lake Toba Priority Destinations

The film "Legacy Will" is set to premiere on December 4, 2025. This film not only offers family drama and light comedy but also serves as a new window to appreciate the beauty of Samosir Island. 

Featuring popular actors like Derby Romero and Jenda Munthe, the film makes Samosir not just a location, but a vital character that brings the story to life.

Samosir Chosen to Highlight Batak Nature and Culture

Director and producer Agustinus Sitorus explained that the decision to choose Samosir was deliberate. He wanted the natural beauty and rich Batak culture to share the spotlight equally with the cast.

"The Regent, Mr. Vandiko Timotius Gultom, supported us. This means we were granted the privilege to film at the newly designated super-priority destinations in Pangururan, Samosir," stated Agustinus in Jakarta.

With full support from the Samosir Regency Government, the film was able to explore various iconic locations that strengthened the story's atmosphere.

Waterfront City Pangururan: Samosir's New Tourism Icon

One featured location is Waterfront City Pangururan, a super-priority destination combining culture with views of Lake Toba.

This site is known for its dancing fountain attraction, a new tourism magnet for visitors.

Agustinus mentioned the production team not only captured footage of open locations but also highlighted symbols of Batak culture.

The team was permitted to feature Solu Bolon art installations, totem carvings, and storytelling signages that help audiences understand local history.

The presence of these cultural elements makes "Legacy Will" feel deeply connected to Batak identity.

Samosir Regent Makes Brief Appearance

Support from the Samosir Regent went beyond permits and facilitation.

"Besides supporting us, the Regent also made a brief appearance in-frame. He was present during our initial filming last year (2024)," said Agustinus.

This local figure's presence adds authentic Samosir nuance to the film.

Two Weeks of Shooting: Samosir as Main Setting

Filming took place over two weeks at various points on Samosir Island. Additionally, scenes were shot at several locations around Lake Toba deemed too beautiful to miss.

This makes the film a cinematic postcard showcasing Toba's charm from multiple angles.

70% Drama, 30% Comedy

Despite rich tourism elements, the film remains focused on its story.

"The high proportion of drama is evident from the official film poster, which features a dramatic theme, unlike the comedic poster used for the teaser," explained Agustinus.

The script was written with a 70% drama and 30% comedy composition, aided by comedy consultant Ridho Brado from Stand Up Comedy Indonesia 5.

Dialogues are primarily in Indonesian, with some Batak phrases interspersed to strengthen cultural setting without hindering audience comprehension.

Cast with Batak Clan Names Strengthens Identity

Casting was meticulous to ensure characters' cultural backgrounds felt natural.

Both Derby Romero and Astrid Tiar have Batak clan names (margas), while Jemimah Cita has Batak Toba heritage from her mother. Their presence reinforces Batak cultural representation on screen.

Samosir: A Captivating Tourist Destination

With visuals of Lake Toba, rich Batak culture, and direct support from local government, "Legacy Will" has the potential to become one of the most effective tourism promotions for Samosir Island.

The film is not just entertainment; it's an invitation for audiences to visit themselves—to greet the ocean-sized lake, feel the warmth of Batak culture, and witness firsthand the beauty previously seen only on the big screen. (Antara)