Notes
My quick rating - 5,4/10. If you haven't noticed, Indonesia turns out some scary ass horror flicks so when one makes its way in front of me, I am all over checking it out. I am aware this is a remake and I have never seen the original from 1982 so I won't be making any comparison. This flick delivers a hair-raising tale of horror rooted in Indonesian folklore, seamlessly blending traditional elements with modern scares. The film opens with an eerie premise: a child, possessed by a malevolent spirit since infancy, becomes a pawn in the pursuit of dark power. This demonic force, once a mere whisper in the shadows, transforms the life of Kosim (Vino G. Bastian), a man who unexpectedly strikes gold in the village of Hirupbagja. With newfound wealth, he marries Sumi (Sara Fajira), and together, they embark on a life of prosperity. However, their idyllic existence takes a terrifying turn as the supernatural forces at play threaten to consume them entirely. What sets this film apart is its unapologetic embrace of classic horror tropes. Director Rako Prijanto unearths inspiration from iconic horror films such as The Exorcist and Evil Dead, creating a chilling atmosphere that seeps into every frame, especially towards the finale. The imagery, borrowed from these classics, is utilized with finesse, adding layers of terror that will haunt your dreams. One of the film's strongest suits is its portrayal of Indonesian culture and mythology. The filmmakers skillfully incorporate local folklore, enriching the narrative with authenticity and depth. The village of Hirupbagja comes alive with its traditions and superstitions, providing a vibrant backdrop for the supernatural horrors to unfold. This cultural richness not only adds depth to the story but also introduces international audiences to the captivating world of Indonesian folklore. The performances are commendable, especially considering the challenging nature of the material. Their fear feels genuine, drawing viewers deeper into the nightmare they face. I have to trust in those that created the subtitles to help tell the narrative and at no point did I feel lost or laugh. Often poorly translated subtitles will illicit one of those two. While the film pays homage to horror classics, it also dares to explore new territory, infusing the narrative with unexpected twists and turns. The pacing keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, building suspense and anticipation as the story hurtles towards its rather timid climax. Even with all of the good this movie brought, it still left much to be desired in my opinion. The scares were a bit few and far between and the story did meander off for a while that may end up boring some fans. Overall it does show Indonesia's prowess in the horror genre. If you're a fan of horror which I assume you are if you have read this far, this may be deserving of a spot on your list. Just be prepared to sleep with the lights on after witnessing the horrors that unfold on screen.
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