Indonesian Horror Films Find Box Office Success by Blending Islamic Faith and Local Folklore
PONTINAK, INDONESIA – Indonesian horror films are experiencing a surge in popularity, drawing millions to cinemas with a unique blend of Islamic faith, local folklore, and increasingly complex production values.Films like “Haunting of Mount Gede” are resonating with audiences by eschewing Western horror tropes in favor of narratives deeply rooted in Indonesian culture and religious beliefs.
The appeal lies in a departure from typical scares. Rather of characters investigating unsettling noises, protagonists frequently enough turn to Islam for protection and healing when confronted with the supernatural. When a character in “Haunting of Mount Gede” returns possessed, her family promptly seeks the help of an ustad, or Islamic scholar. This cultural specificity, combined with rising production quality fueled by international investment from streaming platforms like Netflix and HBO, is proving a winning formula.
“I don’t do that,” says dr. Imanjaya, a film expert, pantomiming a character cautiously investigating a disturbance. “If I got scared, I’d pray with something from the Holy Quran.”
This reflects a common reaction within the films themselves, where the existence of ghosts is rarely questioned and faith serves as a primary defense. the films tap into a rich vein of Indonesian folklore, featuring creatures like the danyang, an evil jinni, alongside real-life locations like Mount Gede, adding another layer of authenticity.
Moviegoer Rifki Yusuf, after seeing “Haunting on Mount Gede,” noted the advancement in Indonesian cinema. “Indonesian horror movies are gradually becoming a lot better,” he said, appreciating the film’s cinematography and its connection to his own experiences hiking Mount Gede.”I know they are there,” he added, referencing the creatures depicted in the film.
The success of Indonesian horror isn’t limited to domestic audiences. As streaming platforms expand their reach, these films are gaining international recognition, attracting a wider fanbase and further investment in the industry.Ismira Lutfia Tisnadibrata supported reporting for this story.
