Garin is considered to be the pioneer of a new generation of the 1990s. His films have been circulating through various festivals, such as Cannes, Venice, and Berlin while winning numerous awards. Not only films, he also works in advertising, music videos, theater, and art installation, and writes for newspapers and books while also organizing JAFF (Jogja Netpac Asian Film Festival) where he is a co-founder. He also teaches at universities both in Indonesia and abroad.