By: Rick Hennings
Ariel Felix’s Character: A Deeper Dive Into Bakti Santoso
Ariel Felix recently took on a noteworthy role in FBI International as Bakti Santoso, a character who embodies nuanced complexity and darkness. This episode revolves around the team’s pursuit of a man on the FBI’s most-wanted list, leading to unexpected challenges. Santoso, a manipulative preacher, targets the daughter of a desperate father, forcing the Fly Team to act outside their standard protocols to ensure her safety. Felix describes this villain as “extremely engaging,” revealing the dedication he poured into crafting a character who is both unsettling and intriguing.
The tension in the episode builds as the team navigates difficult moral dilemmas while attempting to apprehend Santoso. Felix’s portrayal adds a distinct layer to the narrative, demonstrating his ability to evoke both intensity and curiosity. Filmed in Budapest under the direction of Peter Stebbings and written by Kyle Steinbach, the episode showcases not only Felix’s talent but also a collaborative process between the cast and crew. The impact of such character-driven stories resonates with audiences, keeping them engaged in the ongoing struggles of the protagonists.
In a reflection on the episode’s performance, Felix stated, “Happy to say this episode saw a rise in the ratings and won its time slot against shows on the other networks.” This acknowledgment serves as a testament to both his performance and the overall appeal of the series, which has continued to attract attention in the competitive landscape of television programming.
As viewers watch this season, they are not just witnesses to law enforcement action but also participants in a deeper moral conversation sparked by characters like Bakti Santoso. This complexity in storytelling underscores Felix’s commitment to roles that challenge conventional narratives, making audiences reflect on the nature of good and evil.
The Journey of Ariel Felix: From Stage to Screen
Ariel Felix’s career demonstrates a versatile talent shaped by diverse experiences in various performance arenas. He began his acting journey in theater, which laid a solid foundation for his skills. Felix captivated audiences as he took on lead roles in significant theatrical productions like Miss Saigon and starred in the U.S. premiere of Paper Dolls. These performances were not just displays of his ability to sing and act; they revealed his capability to embody multidimensional characters that resonate with audiences.
Transitioning to television and film, Felix has steadily built an impressive portfolio. His appearances in major films like Mile 22, where he worked alongside Mark Wahlberg, showcased his adaptability in intense environments. In addition, his role in The Master allowed him to explore complex narratives alongside esteemed actors, such as Joaquin Phoenix. Each role reflects his commitment to growth and storytelling, pushing boundaries and venturing into darker themes, as demonstrated by his recent character in FBI International.
Felix’s ability to navigate different genres sets him apart in the entertainment landscape. This adaptability not only broadens his audience reach but also deepens his understanding of character dynamics. His dedication to authentic performances has earned him recognition not only from audiences but also critics, furthering his reputation in the industry.
As Ariel Felix continues to evolve, the gravity of his roles leaves a lasting impact. He remains passionate about storytelling, believing in the power of narratives that both entertain and challenge viewers. With each project, he embraces the opportunity to connect with audiences on a deeper level. This ambition aligns with his overarching goal to create work that resonates well beyond the screen, as he noted, “I strive to bring truth and impact to every story I help tell.”

Ariel Felix: An Emerging Voice in Independent Filmmaking
In addition to his impressive acting career, Ariel Felix is making waves as an independent filmmaker. His passion for storytelling extends behind the camera, where he co-wrote and produced the award-winning short film Get Your Story Straight. This project garnered multiple accolades, including Best Comedy Short at the Chain NYC Film Festival, showcasing his multifaceted talent in the industry. Felix’s work emphasizes a commitment to narratives that reflect authenticity and depth—values he holds dear as an artist.
The film not only received praise for its humorous take on relatable themes but also set the stage for Felix’s future projects. With plans to develop Get Your Story Straight into a feature-length film, he expresses excitement about evolving the story further. He firmly believes in the importance of independent filmmaking in providing diverse perspectives, often expressing, “I’m passionate about every part of the craft—on stage, on screen, or behind the scenes.” This dedication underlines his belief that every role holds significance in shaping cultural conversations.
As audiences witness his rise, Felix’s impact on independent cinema is becoming apparent. His understanding of character depth and emotional nuance enriches his storytelling, making it relatable and poignant. Working alongside various talented collaborators, he strives to cultivate a creative environment that fosters innovation. In doing so, Felix contributes to redefining narratives in both mainstream and independent film spheres.
In a world where storytelling can sometimes be limited to conventional formats, Felix stands as a beacon for creativity and representation. As he furthers his journey in film and acting, he remains dedicated to crafting stories that resonate on personal and societal levels. Ariel Felix is not just an actor; he is a storyteller committed to igniting thought-provoking discussions and engaging diverse audiences.
For those eager to keep up with Ariel’s work, his recent episode of FBI International is available for viewing on the CBS Television Network as well as streaming on Paramount+. You can also view the popular teaser. This accessibility allows more viewers to experience his captivating performance as Bakti Santoso and the intricate complexities of the story he was part of.
As he continues to navigate the entertainment landscape, Ariel Felix promises to be a name to watch. His unwavering passion for storytelling, both in front of and behind the camera, reinforces his position as a notable voice in the industry. Audiences can expect not only captivating performances but also fresh narratives that challenge expectations and spark engaging dialogues in the years to come.
Follow Ariel on Instagram and learn more from his IMDb.
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Published by Joseph T.