Top Indonesian Horror Films Of 2017: A Spine-Chilling Review

Hey guys, horror movie aficionados! Get ready to dive deep into the eerie world of Indonesian cinema. Today, we’re taking a thrilling trip back to 2017 to explore the creepiest, scariest, and most unforgettable Indonesian horror films that year. So, dim the lights, grab your popcorn, and let's get started!

"Pengabdi Setan" (Satan's Slaves)

When discussing Indonesian horror films of 2017, you simply cannot skip "Pengabdi Setan" (Satan's Slaves). Directed by Joko Anwar, this movie is a remake of the 1980s classic and it completely redefined modern Indonesian horror. "Pengabdi Setan" follows a family grappling with financial troubles and the mysterious illness of their mother. After she passes away, terrifying events begin to plague their home, leading them to uncover dark secrets about their mother’s past and a sinister pact she made. Joko Anwar masterfully blends classic horror tropes with Indonesian cultural elements, creating a film that's both terrifying and deeply unsettling.

What makes "Pengabdi Setan" stand out is its incredible attention to detail. The cinematography is stunning, using shadows and camera angles to build suspense. The sound design is equally impressive, with eerie whispers and unsettling creaks that will keep you on the edge of your seat. But beyond the technical aspects, the film's strength lies in its ability to tap into primal fears – the fear of the unknown, the fear of loss, and the fear of dark family secrets. The characters are well-developed, and their emotional journey adds depth to the horror, making it more than just cheap scares. The success of "Pengabdi Setan" isn't just local; it garnered international acclaim, proving that Indonesian horror can resonate with audiences worldwide. If you haven't seen it yet, add it to your watchlist immediately! The film's impact on Indonesian cinema is undeniable, paving the way for a new wave of high-quality horror productions. Seriously, guys, this one is a must-watch. The atmosphere, the story, the scares – everything is top-notch.

"Danur: I Can See Ghosts"

Next up, we have "Danur: I Can See Ghosts," directed by Awi Suryadi. This film is based on a novel by Risa Saraswati, and it’s all about a young girl named Risa who has the ability to see ghosts. As a lonely child, Risa befriends three ghostly figures, but as she grows older, she realizes that these friendships come with a dark side. "Danur" explores themes of loneliness, childhood imagination, and the consequences of opening doors to the supernatural. Awi Suryadi does a great job of creating a spooky atmosphere and building tension throughout the film.

"Danur" differentiates itself from other horror films through its focus on the emotional connection between Risa and her ghostly friends. The film delves into the idea of childhood innocence and the potential dangers of the unseen world. Prilly Latuconsina delivers a strong performance as Risa, portraying both the vulnerability and the strength of her character. The visual effects are well-executed, bringing the ghostly figures to life in a way that's both creepy and captivating. While "Danur" relies on jump scares, it also incorporates elements of psychological horror, making it a more nuanced and engaging experience. The success of "Danur" led to several sequels, solidifying its place as a prominent franchise in Indonesian horror cinema. If you're into ghost stories with a touch of emotional depth, "Danur: I Can See Ghosts" is definitely worth checking out. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, making you question the boundaries between the living and the dead. Plus, the story is based on real experiences, which adds an extra layer of creepiness!

"Jailangkung"

"Jailangkung," directed by Jose Poernomo and Rizal Mantovani, is another notable horror film from 2017. This movie revolves around three sisters who try to uncover the mysterious circumstances surrounding their father’s comatose state. They use a Jailangkung – a traditional Indonesian spirit board – to communicate with the supernatural and find answers. However, they soon realize that they’ve opened a door to something far more sinister than they could have imagined. "Jailangkung" is a mix of supernatural thriller and family drama, with plenty of scares along the way. Jose Poernomo and Rizal Mantovani, known for their expertise in the horror genre, deliver a film that is both visually appealing and suspenseful.

"Jailangkung" stands out due to its blend of traditional Indonesian folklore and modern horror elements. The use of the Jailangkung board adds a cultural dimension to the film, making it uniquely Indonesian. The movie is filled with twists and turns, keeping the audience guessing until the very end. The directors skillfully create an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using sound and visual effects to amplify the scares. While the plot may seem familiar, the execution is what makes "Jailangkung" a memorable horror experience. The film also explores themes of family loyalty and the lengths to which people will go to protect their loved ones. If you're a fan of supernatural thrillers with a touch of Indonesian culture, "Jailangkung" is a great choice. Just be prepared for some serious jump scares and a story that will keep you up at night. Trust me, guys, you'll be checking under your bed after watching this one!

"Ruqyah: The Exorcism"

Directed by Jose Poernomo, "Ruqyah: The Exorcism" offers a different take on the horror genre, focusing on Islamic exorcism practices. The film tells the story of Aisha, a famous actress who is tormented by supernatural forces. She seeks the help of a religious scholar to perform a ruqyah – an Islamic exorcism – to rid herself of the evil spirits. "Ruqyah" delves into the spiritual realm and explores themes of faith, possession, and the battle between good and evil. Jose Poernomo brings a sense of realism to the film, making the exorcism scenes feel authentic and terrifying.

What makes "Ruqyah: The Exorcism" unique is its exploration of Islamic exorcism rituals, providing viewers with a glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of Indonesian culture. The film is not just about scares; it also raises questions about faith and the power of belief. In addition, the movie also explores the psychological toll that possession can take on a person, adding depth to the horror elements. The lead actress delivers a convincing performance, portraying the fear and desperation of someone being tormented by evil spirits. If you're interested in horror films that explore religious themes and cultural practices, "Ruqyah" is a must-see. It's a film that will make you think as well as jump, leaving you with a lasting impression. Seriously, guys, this one is intense!

"The 3rd Eye"

"The 3rd Eye," directed by Rocky Soraya, tells the story of two sisters, Alia and Abel, who move back to their childhood home after the death of their parents. Alia discovers that Abel has the ability to see ghosts, thanks to her “third eye” being opened. As they investigate the mysterious occurrences in their house, they uncover a dark secret that puts them in grave danger. "The 3rd Eye" is a supernatural thriller that combines elements of family drama and horror. Rocky Soraya is known for his stylish and suspenseful direction, and he doesn’t disappoint with this film.

"The 3rd Eye" stands out for its focus on the relationship between the two sisters and how they cope with their supernatural experiences. The film explores themes of family, loss, and the power of belief. The visual effects are well-done, creating a creepy and believable ghostly atmosphere. Rocky Soraya skillfully builds suspense throughout the film, keeping the audience on edge. While "The 3rd Eye" relies on some familiar horror tropes, it also offers a fresh perspective on the genre. The movie is a thrilling ride from start to finish, with plenty of scares and twists along the way. If you enjoy supernatural thrillers with a strong emotional core, "The 3rd Eye" is a great choice. Plus, the story is genuinely creepy, making it a perfect watch for a spooky night in. Trust me, guys, you won't be disappointed!

So there you have it – a look back at some of the top Indonesian horror films of 2017. From demonic possessions to ghostly encounters, these films offer a diverse range of scares and thrills. If you're a horror fan, be sure to check them out and experience the unique and terrifying world of Indonesian cinema. Happy watching, and don't forget to leave the lights on!