Year: 2014
Runtime: 81 min
Language: Indonesian
Director: Robert Lemelson
Set in the beautiful landscapes of Bali, this film explores the complex and often hidden reality of polygamous relationships. Over seven years, it documents the lives of three families, revealing the challenges faced by women within these unions. The story sheds light on the struggles for empowerment and equal rights, highlighting instances of coercion, betrayal, and domestic violence as women navigate a system where their voices are often silenced.
Warning: spoilers below!
Haven’t seen Bitter Honey yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!
Read the complete plot breakdown of Bitter Honey (2014), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.
Bali is famously regarded as a tourist paradise, yet the reality for many Balinese women tells a more complex and troubling tale. Approximately 10% of Balinese families engage in polygamous relationships, with men often adding multiple brides without obtaining consent from their current spouses.
Documented over seven years, Bitter Honey serves as a groundbreaking examination of the lives within these families. Women from various polygamous unions candidly share their experiences of coercion, betrayal, and domestic violence, as well as their courageous quests for empowerment and equal rights.
In a society that heavily favors male authority, these women frequently find themselves with a limited voice to influence or challenge the circumstances of their domestic lives. Despite Bali’s reputation as a vibrant tropical getaway, local, national, and international observers often choose to ignore these pressing issues.
Bitter Honey not only brings to light the struggles faced by Balinese co-wives but also highlights the efforts of those working diligently to protect and empower them. The film aspires to ignite a broader dialogue regarding contemporary polygamy and women’s rights in Indonesia. Through these stories, it hopes to shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of a society that many view through a romanticized lens.
Last Updated: October 25, 2024 at 10:36
Don't stop at just watching — explore Bitter Honey in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Bitter Honey is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.
Track the full timeline of Bitter Honey with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
Discover movies like Bitter Honey that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.
Bitter Honey (2014) Scene-by-Scene Movie Timeline
Bitter Honey (2014) Movie Characters, Themes & Settings
Movies Like Bitter Honey – Similar Titles You’ll Enjoy
Honeyland (2019) Ending Explained & Film Insights
Bitter Melon (2018) Ending Explained & Film Insights
Overseas (2020) Movie Recap & Themes
Honeyglue (2016) Full Summary & Key Details
Hive (2021) Film Overview & Timeline
Domestic Violence (2002) Complete Plot Breakdown
Bitterbrush (2022) Detailed Story Recap
Bitter Money (2018) Full Movie Breakdown
Bubot Niyar (2006) Complete Plot Breakdown
Darlings (2022) Story Summary & Characters
Honey (2003) Full Summary & Key Details
Blossoms of Fire (2006) Story Summary & Characters
The Hidden Half (2001) Ending Explained & Film Insights
Sand Storm (2016) Full Movie Breakdown
Children of Love (2003) Film Overview & Timeline