Indonesian horror cinema has been gaining international recognition in recent years, captivating audiences with its unique blend of cultural folklore, supernatural elements, and spine-chilling storytelling. As we step into 2024, the Indonesian film industry continues to push the boundaries of horror, delivering bone-chilling experiences that leave viewers sleeping with the lights on.
In this article, we’ll explore the ten scariest Indonesian horror movies that should be on every horror enthusiast’s watch list for 2024. These films not only showcase the rich tapestry of Indonesian mythology and urban legends but also demonstrate the country’s growing prowess in filmmaking techniques and narrative storytelling.
From ancient curses to modern urban horrors, these movies offer a diverse range of frights that cater to various tastes within the horror genre.
Whether you’re a seasoned horror fan or a curious newcomer to Indonesian cinema, these films promise to deliver unforgettable scares and a deeper appreciation for the country’s unique contribution to the world of horror.
1. “Perempuan Tanah Jahanam” (Impetigore) (2019)
While released in 2019, “Perempuan Tanah Jahanam,” internationally known as “Impetigore,” continues to be a must-watch for horror fans in 2024. Directed by Joko Anwar, one of Indonesia’s most prominent filmmakers, this movie showcases the best of Indonesian horror storytelling.
Plot Summary
The story follows Maya, a young woman who learns she may have inherited a house in her ancestral village. Hoping to sell the property and solve her financial problems, Maya travels to the remote village with her best friend, Dini. However, upon arrival, they discover a dark secret involving a curse, missing children, and a sinister puppet master.
What Makes It Scary
“Impetigore” stands out for its masterful blend of traditional Indonesian folklore with modern horror elements. The movie’s atmosphere is thick with dread, enhanced by its isolated rural setting and the unsettling use of traditional Javanese puppetry. Anwar’s direction creates a sense of constant unease, with sudden bursts of graphic violence that will make even seasoned horror fans jump.
The film delves deep into themes of generational curses and the weight of ancestral sins, adding psychological depth to its supernatural horrors. The use of traditional Indonesian music and cultural elements adds an extra layer of authenticity and eeriness to the experience.
Critical Reception
“Impetigore” received widespread critical acclaim, both domestically and internationally. It was selected as Indonesia’s entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 93rd Academy Awards. Critics praised its atmospheric storytelling, strong performances, and its ability to blend social commentary with genuine scares.
Why Watch It in 2024
Despite being a few years old, “Impetigore” remains a benchmark for Indonesian horror. Its themes of cultural identity and the clash between tradition and modernity continue to resonate. For those new to Indonesian horror, it serves as an excellent introduction to the genre’s unique flavors and storytelling styles.
2. “Ratu Ilmu Hitam” (The Queen of Black Magic) (2019)
Another gem from 2019 that continues to haunt viewers in 2024 is “Ratu Ilmu Hitam,” or “The Queen of Black Magic.” This film is a remake of the 1981 Indonesian horror classic of the same name, reimagined for a modern audience by director Kimo Stamboel.
Plot Summary
The movie centers around Hanif, who takes his wife and three children to the rural orphanage where he was raised. They’re there to visit the man who raised him, who is now elderly and ill. However, what starts as a heartwarming family reunion turns into a nightmare as dark secrets from the past resurface, unleashing a terrifying force of black magic.
What Makes It Scary
“Ratu Ilmu Hitam” is a relentless assault on the senses, combining visceral body horror with psychological terror. The film’s scares are amplified by its isolated setting and the gradual reveal of the orphanage’s dark history. Stamboel’s direction creates a claustrophobic atmosphere where danger lurks around every corner.
The movie excels in its practical effects, delivering gruesome and memorable scenes that will stick with viewers long after the credits roll. It also touches on themes of abuse, trauma, and revenge, adding emotional weight to its supernatural horrors.
Critical Reception
The film received positive reviews for its intense scares and well-crafted tension. Critics particularly praised its ability to honor the spirit of the original while updating the story and effects for a modern audience. The performances of the cast, especially the child actors, were also highly commended.
Why Watch It in 2024
“Ratu Ilmu Hitam” represents the evolution of Indonesian horror, showing how classic stories can be reimagined for new generations. Its blend of traditional black magic lore with contemporary filmmaking techniques makes it a standout in the genre. For horror fans looking for intense, graphic scares rooted in cultural mythology, this film delivers in spades.
3. “Pengabdi Setan 2: Communion” (Satan’s Slaves 2: Communion) (2022)
The sequel to the highly successful “Pengabdi Setan” (Satan’s Slaves) from 2017, this 2022 release continues to be a major talking point in Indonesian horror circles in 2024. Directed once again by Joko Anwar, this film expands on the terrifying world established in the first movie.
Plot Summary
Set three years after the events of the first film, “Pengabdi Setan 2: Communion” follows the surviving members of the Suwono family, who have moved to a low-cost apartment building in the city. However, their attempt to escape their haunted past proves futile as dark forces follow them, threatening not just their family but all the residents of the apartment complex.
What Makes It Scary
Anwar builds on the atmospheric dread of the first film, but ramps up the tension by confining much of the action to a claustrophobic apartment building. The movie plays with themes of community and isolation, creating a sense that nowhere is truly safe. The scares are more intense and frequent than in the first film, with some truly shocking moments that will have viewers on the edge of their seats.
The film also delves deeper into the cult mythology established in the original, expanding the lore in intriguing and terrifying ways. The use of practical effects combined with subtle CGI creates some truly memorable and horrifying sequences.
Critical Reception
“Pengabdi Setan 2: Communion” was widely praised for successfully building on its predecessor while standing as a strong film in its own right. Critics noted the increased scale and ambition of the sequel, appreciating how it expanded the mythology while maintaining the core family drama that made the first film so effective.
Why Watch It in 2024
As a sequel that many consider to be even better than the original, “Pengabdi Setan 2: Communion” is a must-watch for anyone interested in the evolution of Indonesian horror. It showcases the growing confidence and skill of the Indonesian film industry in creating horror that can compete on a global stage. The film’s exploration of social issues within its horror framework also gives it a depth that resonates beyond simple scares.
4. “Makmum” (2019)
While “Makmum” was released in 2019, its impact on Indonesian horror cinema continues to be felt in 2024. Directed by Hadrah Daeng Ratu, this film taps into the rich vein of Islamic mythology and religious horror.
Plot Summary
The story revolves around Rini, a young woman who returns to her old Islamic boarding school to become a teacher. However, she soon discovers that the school is haunted by a malevolent spirit known as Makmum. As Rini investigates the origins of this entity, she uncovers dark secrets about the school’s past and finds herself in a battle to save not just herself, but the students as well.
What Makes It Scary
“Makmum” stands out for its unique blend of Islamic elements with traditional horror tropes. The film creates a deeply unsettling atmosphere by playing on the sanctity of religious spaces and the vulnerability of faith. The entity Makmum, often seen during prayer times, subverts the usual comfort and safety associated with religious practices, making the scares all the more effective.
The movie also excels in its use of sound design, with the call to prayer and religious chants often serving as an ominous backdrop to the unfolding horror. The confined setting of the boarding school adds to the claustrophobic feel, creating a sense that there’s no escape from the malevolent presence.
Critical Reception
“Makmum” received positive reviews for its fresh take on religious horror and its ability to create scares that feel culturally specific yet universally terrifying. Critics praised the film’s atmosphere and tension-building, as well as its exploration of themes like faith, doubt, and the corruption of religious institutions.
Why Watch It in 2024
Even years after its release, “Makmum” remains a unique entry in the Indonesian horror genre. Its focus on Islamic mythology offers a different perspective from the more commonly seen Javanese or Sundanese folklore in Indonesian horror. For viewers in 2024, it provides an opportunity to explore how different cultural and religious backgrounds can inform and shape horror storytelling.
5. “Sebelum Iblis Menjemput” (May the Devil Take You) (2018)
Directed by Timo Tjahjanto, “Sebelum Iblis Menjemput” (internationally known as “May the Devil Take You”) continues to be a benchmark for Indonesian horror in 2024. This film blends elements of American-style horror with distinctly Indonesian themes and mythology.
Plot Summary
The movie follows Alfie, a young woman who, along with her estranged family, visits her comatose father’s villa after he falls ill. There, they discover that years ago, her father made a deal with a demon for wealth and success. Now, as the demon comes to collect its due, Alfie and her family must fight for survival against the unleashed evil.
What Makes It Scary
Tjahjanto is known for his no-holds-barred approach to horror, and “Sebelum Iblis Menjemput” is no exception. The film is relentless in its scares, combining jump scares with genuinely disturbing imagery and intense violence. The demon’s manifestations are particularly terrifying, with practical effects that create some truly nightmarish visuals.
The movie also excels in its sound design, using silence and sudden bursts of noise to keep viewers constantly on edge. The claustrophobic setting of the villa, with its dark corners and hidden rooms, adds to the oppressive atmosphere of dread.
Critical Reception
Sebelum Iblis Menjemput” received praise for its high-energy scares and impressive visual effects. Critics noted its similarities to American horror classics like “Evil Dead,” while appreciating how it incorporated Indonesian elements to create something unique. The film’s frenetic pacing and intense set pieces were particularly highlighted.
Why Watch It in 2024
This film represents a more globalized approach to Indonesian horror, blending international influences with local folklore. For viewers in 2024, it offers a glimpse into how Indonesian cinema is evolving to compete on the world stage while maintaining its cultural identity. The movie’s themes of family secrets and the consequences of greed also continue to resonate, making it as relevant now as it was upon release.
6. “Kuntilanak” (2018)
“Kuntilanak,” directed by Rizal Mantovani, is a modern take on one of Indonesia’s most famous supernatural entities. While released in 2018, its impact on Indonesian horror and its exploration of local folklore make it a must-watch even in 2024.
Plot Summary
The story follows Dinda, a young orphan girl who moves into a new home with her adoptive family. In the house, she discovers an antique mirror that harbors the spirit of a Kuntilanak – a female vampiric ghost from Indonesian mythology. As Dinda and her new siblings become entangled with the mirror’s dark power, they must uncover its history to survive the Kuntilanak’s wrath.
What Makes It Scary
“Kuntilanak” excels in creating an atmosphere of creeping dread. The movie plays with the concept of reflections and mirrors, using them to create unsettling visuals and scares. The Kuntilanak itself is a terrifying creation, with its distinctive long hair and ghostly appearance tapping into deep-seated cultural fears.
The film also explores themes of adoption, belonging, and family secrets, adding emotional depth to its supernatural horror. The use of traditional Indonesian music and cultural elements enhances the authenticity of the scares, grounding them in local folklore.
Critical Reception
Critics praised “Kuntilanak” for its fresh take on a classic Indonesian ghost story. The film’s ability to balance jump scares with a more subtle, creeping horror was particularly noted. Many also appreciated how the movie incorporated themes relevant to modern Indonesian society while staying true to the essence of the Kuntilanak legend.
Why Watch It in 2024
Even years after its release, “Kuntilanak” remains a excellent entry point for those interested in Indonesian supernatural folklore. Its exploration of the Kuntilanak myth offers insights into Indonesian cultural fears and beliefs. For horror fans in 2024, it provides a chance to see how traditional ghost stories can be updated for a modern audience without losing their cultural significance.
7. “Danur: I Can See Ghosts” (2017)
Though released in 2017, “Danur: I Can See Ghosts,” directed by Awi Suryadi, continues to be a significant film in the Indonesian horror landscape in 2024. Based on a novel by Risa Saraswati, which claims to be inspired by true events, this movie offers a unique perspective on the supernatural.
Plot Summary
The film tells the story of Risa, a young girl who has the ability to see ghosts. On her 8th birthday, feeling lonely, she wishes for friends. Her wish is granted, but in an unexpected way – she befriends three young ghosts. The story then jumps forward to when Risa is a teenager, as she must protect her sister from a malevolent spirit while coming to terms with her supernatural gift.
What Makes It Scary
“Danur” stands out for its blend of horror and drama. While it has its share of jump scares and creepy moments, much of the horror comes from the emotional weight of Risa’s situation. The idea of a child befriending ghosts is both endearing and unsettling, creating a unique tone that sets the film apart.
The movie excels in its visual representation of the spirit world, with pale, unsettling ghosts that are all the more terrifying for their human-like appearance. The contrast between the innocence of childhood and the darkness of the supernatural world creates a pervasive sense of unease.
Critical Reception
“Danur” was praised for its fresh take on the ghost story genre. Critics appreciated its emotional depth and the performance of the lead actress, both as a child and a teenager. The film’s ability to balance scares with a touching story about loneliness and acceptance was particularly noted.
Why Watch It in 2024
Even years after its release, “Danur” offers a unique perspective on supernatural horror. Its exploration of the thin line between the world of the living and the dead continues to resonate. For viewers in 2024, it provides an opportunity to see how Indonesian cinema blends personal, emotionally driven narratives with traditional horror elements.
8. “Mata Batin” (The Third Eye) (2017)
“Mata Batin,” also known internationally as “The Third Eye,” is a 2017 film directed by Rocky Soraya that continues to be influential in Indonesian horror cinema in 2024. Its unique premise and effective scares make it a standout in the genre.
Plot Summary
The movie follows Alia, who returns to her childhood home with her sister Abel after the death of their father. Alia begins to see strange and terrifying things in the house, leading her to seek help from a medium. The medium opens Alia’s “third eye,” allowing her to see the spirit world more clearly. However, this gift turns out to be a curse as Alia is now constantly haunted by spirits, some of whom have sinister intentions.
What Makes It Scary
“Mata Batin” creates horror through its exploration of the unseen world that exists alongside our own. The concept of the “third eye” plays into cultural beliefs about spiritual sight, making the scares feel grounded in reality for many Indonesian viewers. The film excels in creating a constant sense of unease, as the audience, like Alia, never knows when or where a spirit might appear.
The visual effects in “Mata Batin” are particularly noteworthy. The spirits are designed to be both familiar and grotesque, often appearing as distorted versions of human beings. This uncanny valley effect makes them all the more terrifying. The movie also makes effective use of sound design, with sudden silences and whispers creating a tense atmosphere even in seemingly calm moments.
Another aspect that adds to the horror is the film’s exploration of family secrets and hidden truths. As Alia delves deeper into the spirit world, she uncovers dark aspects of her family’s past, adding a layer of psychological horror to the supernatural scares.
Critical Reception
“Mata Batin” received positive reviews for its innovative approach to ghost stories and its high production values. Critics praised the film’s ability to create sustained tension and deliver effective scares without relying too heavily on jump scares. The performance of Jessica Mila as Alia was particularly commended, with her portrayal of fear and determination driving much of the film’s emotional impact.
Some reviewers noted similarities to other Asian horror films, particularly those from Japan and Korea, but appreciated how “Mata Batin” incorporated distinctly Indonesian elements. The film’s exploration of family dynamics and the weight of secrets was seen as adding depth to what could have been a straightforward ghost story.
Why Watch It in 2024
Even several years after its release, “Mata Batin” remains a significant film in Indonesian horror cinema. Its blend of supernatural horror with psychological themes continues to resonate with audiences. For viewers in 2024, the film offers a glimpse into Indonesian spiritual beliefs and the concept of the “third eye,” which remains a fascinating aspect of local culture.
Moreover, “Mata Batin” spawned a successful franchise, with sequels that further expanded its mythology. Watching the original film in 2024 provides context for understanding how Indonesian horror franchises have evolved and grown in complexity over the years.
The film’s technical achievements, particularly in visual effects and sound design, also make it a benchmark for comparing the progress of Indonesian cinema’s production values. It serves as a reference point for how far the industry has come and how it continues to push boundaries in creating immersive horror experiences.
9. “Rumah Dara” (Macabre) (2009)
Although “Rumah Dara,” internationally known as “Macabre,” was released in 2009, its impact on Indonesian horror cinema is still felt in 2024. Directed by the Mo Brothers (Timo Tjahjanto and Kimo Stamboel), this film marked a turning point in Indonesian horror, pushing the boundaries of violence and intensity in the genre.
Plot Summary
The story follows a group of friends who offer a ride to a stranded young woman named Dara. She invites them to her isolated mansion for dinner as a thank you. However, the night takes a horrifying turn when the group discovers that Dara and her family are cannibals. What follows is a brutal fight for survival as the friends try to escape the house of horrors.
What Makes It Scary
“Rumah Dara” stands out for its unrelenting intensity and graphic violence. Unlike many Indonesian horror films that rely on supernatural elements, this movie presents a more grounded, yet equally terrifying scenario of human monsters. The film’s confined setting creates a claustrophobic atmosphere, with the characters (and viewers) feeling increasingly trapped as the night progresses.
The Mo Brothers’ direction is kinetic and visceral, with expertly crafted tension and shock moments. The violence is graphic and unflinching, pushing the boundaries of what was typically seen in Indonesian cinema at the time. This approach creates a sense of real danger and unpredictability that keeps viewers on edge throughout the film.
Another aspect that adds to the horror is the film’s exploration of family dynamics, albeit in a twisted form. The cannibalistic family’s warped sense of love and loyalty creates an unsettling contrast to their brutal actions.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, “Rumah Dara” received widespread acclaim for its bold approach to horror. Critics praised its technical prowess, particularly the cinematography and practical effects. The film’s intensity and willingness to push boundaries were seen as a breath of fresh air in the Indonesian horror scene.
Internationally, the film drew comparisons to Western horror classics like “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre,” while being recognized for its distinctly Indonesian elements. Some critics noted that while the violence might be too extreme for some viewers, it served the story’s themes of survival and the dark side of family bonds.
Why Watch It in 2024
Even 15 years after its release, “Rumah Dara” remains a pivotal film in Indonesian horror cinema. It marked a shift towards more intense, graphic horror that paved the way for many films that followed. For viewers in 2024, it offers a chance to see the roots of Indonesia’s current horror renaissance.
The film’s themes of family, survival, and the potential for human cruelty continue to resonate. In an era where horror increasingly blends with other genres, “Rumah Dara” stands as a pure, unadulterated horror experience that still has the power to shock and unsettle audiences.
Moreover, watching “Rumah Dara” provides context for understanding the careers of the Mo Brothers, who have since become significant figures in Indonesian cinema. Timo Tjahjanto, in particular, has gone on to direct several notable horror and action films, and seeing where his style began offers valuable insight into his evolution as a filmmaker.
10. “Folklore: A Mother’s Love” (2018)
While technically an episode of the HBO Asia horror anthology series “Folklore,” “A Mother’s Love” directed by Joko Anwar stands as a powerful piece of Indonesian horror cinema in its own right. Its impact continues to be felt in 2024, showcasing the potential for Indonesian horror stories on international platforms.
Plot Summary
Set in Jakarta, the story follows Murni, a single mother struggling to care for her son Jodi. They move into a cheap apartment, but strange occurrences begin to plague them. Murni discovers a group of dirty, abandoned children in a hidden room and decides to help them. However, this act of kindness unleashes a terrifying supernatural force tied to a local myth about a weeping woman who lost her children.
What Makes It Scary
“A Mother’s Love” excels in creating a pervasive atmosphere of dread. Joko Anwar’s direction makes excellent use of the cramped, rundown apartment setting to create a sense of claustrophobia and decay. The scares are a mix of jump scares and slower, more psychological horror, with the titular mother’s love becoming something terrifying and possessive.
The film draws heavily on the Indonesian folklore figure of the Wewe Gombel, a ghost who kidnaps children she believes are being abused or neglected. This cultural context adds depth to the horror, tapping into deeply rooted fears and beliefs.
What sets “A Mother’s Love” apart is its exploration of social issues within the horror framework. The struggles of single motherhood, poverty, and child neglect are woven seamlessly into the supernatural narrative, making the human elements just as haunting as the ghostly ones.
Critical Reception
“A Mother’s Love” received widespread acclaim both as part of the “Folklore” series and as a standalone piece of horror cinema. Critics praised Joko Anwar’s direction, noting his ability to create scares that feel both universal and culturally specific. The performance of Marissa Anita as Murni was particularly highlighted, with her portrayal of a mother’s desperation and love driving much of the film’s emotional impact.
Many reviewers appreciated the blend of social commentary with supernatural horror, seeing it as a mature and nuanced approach to the genre. The film’s ability to be genuinely frightening while also thought-provoking was seen as a standout quality.
Why Watch It in 2024
Even years after its release, “A Mother’s Love” remains a powerful example of how Indonesian horror can succeed on international platforms. For viewers in 2024, it offers a chance to see how local myths and social issues can be translated into horror that resonates globally.
The film’s themes of motherhood, poverty, and the sometimes thin line between love and possession continue to be relevant. In an era where horror is increasingly used as a vehicle for social commentary, “A Mother’s Love” stands as an early and effective example of this approach in Indonesian cinema.
Moreover, as part of the larger “Folklore” series, watching “A Mother’s Love” provides context for understanding how Indonesian horror stories can be part of larger, pan-Asian narratives. It showcases the potential for collaboration and cross-cultural storytelling in the horror genre.
Takeaway
Indonesian horror cinema has carved a niche for itself on the global stage with its rich cultural narratives, innovative storytelling, and spine-chilling scares.
The ten movies highlighted here, from the unsettling “Perempuan Tanah Jahanam” to the visceral “Rumah Dara,” showcase the diverse ways in which Indonesian filmmakers blend folklore, psychological depth, and supernatural elements to create unforgettable horror experiences.
As you explore these films in 2024, you’ll gain insight into Indonesia’s unique cultural heritage and its growing influence in the world of horror. Each movie offers a different facet of fear, whether it’s through ancient curses, modern urban legends, or intense psychological terror, proving that Indonesian horror is a treasure trove of scares waiting to be discovered.
