Indonesian horror films have seen tremendous growth in recent years. From being a mere sideshow to the film industry, the horror genre has now become a mainstay, eagerly awaited by audiences. In this article, we’ll discuss Indonesian horror films that have not only captured audiences’ attention but also attracted the largest audiences in theaters. Let’s explore what makes these films so appealing to Indonesian audiences.

1. The Rise of Indonesian Horror Films

Before we discuss specific films, it’s important to understand how the rise of Indonesian horror films began. In the early 2000s, horror films were often filled with clichéd storylines and inadequate visual effects. However, over time, Indonesian filmmakers began exploring new elements, both in terms of storytelling, cinematography, and visual effects. This has led to a rise in the quality of Indonesian horror films and a growing audience following.

2. The Key to the Success of Horror Films in Indonesia

Several factors contribute to Indonesian horror films’ high viewership in theaters. First, stories are closely tied to local culture and beliefs. Many Indonesian horror films draw on elements of local myths and legends, allowing viewers to feel more connected to the stories. Second, increasingly sophisticated technology allows for more realistic and suspenseful visual effects. Third, effective marketing and the right release timing also play a significant role in attracting audiences.

3. Indonesian Horror Films That Were a Huge Success in Cinemas

The Indonesian horror film industry has produced numerous works that are not only entertaining but also have attracted millions of moviegoers. Here are some Indonesian horror films that have achieved significant success and become favorites among audiences:

a. Satan’s Slave (2017)

“Pengabdi Setan” is one of the films that marked the revival of horror films in Indonesia. It was directed by Joko Anwar, a filmmaker known for his high-quality work. “Pengabdi Setan” is a remake of the 1980 classic, but Anwar successfully adds a modern touch that makes it relevant to today’s audiences.

The story centers on a family living in a remote house who experiences terror from evil spirits after their mother’s death. The film stands out for its gripping atmosphere, built through stunning cinematography and a haunting soundtrack. “Pengabdi Setan” (Satan’s Slave) was not only a success in Indonesia, with over 4 million viewers, but also garnered international attention, screening at various film festivals worldwide and receiving critical acclaim.

b. Danur: I Can See Ghosts (2017)

Based on the best-selling novel by Risa Saraswati, “Danur: I Can See Ghosts” tells the true story of the author’s experience with the ability to see spirits. The film was directed by Awi Suryadi and stars Prilly Latuconsina as the main character, Risa.

The film’s uniqueness lies in its story, drawn from Risa Saraswati’s personal experiences, making it feel more authentic and suspenseful. Viewers are invited to delve into a world where spirits are a part of everyday life. With over 2.7 million viewers, “Danur” became one of the highest-grossing horror films and started a franchise that spawned several successful sequels.

c. Community Service Program in Penari Village (2022)

“KKN di Desa Penari” (Community Service Program in Dancer Village) is a unique phenomenon in the Indonesian film industry. Adapted from a viral story that first appeared on social media, the film follows a group of students who encounter mystical events during their KKN program in a remote village. Its story, full of mystery and local mystical elements, captivated audiences.

The film was directed by Awi Suryadi, who cleverly blended horror and drama elements into the storyline. “KKN di Desa Penari” (Community Service in Dancer Village) reached over 9 million viewers, making it the highest-grossing Indonesian film of all time. This success demonstrates the powerful appeal of folklore and myth in horror films in Indonesia.

d. Before the Devil Takes You (2018)

“Before the Devil Picks You Up” offers a unique horror experience with an intense and suspenseful storytelling style. Directed by Timo Tjahjanto, the film tells the story of a young woman who must confront her family’s dark past, filled with curses and mystical rituals.

Known for his energetic and action-packed directing style, Timo Tjahjanto successfully creates a gripping horror atmosphere with captivating cinematography and effective use of practical effects. The film has garnered over 1 million viewers, proving that Indonesian audiences truly appreciate horror films that offer something different from what they’re used to.

e. Makmum (2019)

“Makmum” is another example of an Indonesian horror film that was a huge success in theaters. Adapted from a short film of the same name, “Makmum” tells the story of a woman who is haunted by a supernatural being while praying. The film creates a unique suspense by utilizing religious moments as a backdrop.

With over 1 million viewers, “Makmum” demonstrated that horror films with themes relevant to everyday Indonesian life can attract large audiences. This success also marked a new trend in Indonesian horror films that explore religious and spiritual themes.

f. Queen of Black Magic (2019)

“Ratu Ilmu Hitam” is a remake of the 1981 Indonesian horror classic of the same name. Directed by Kimo Stamboel and written by Joko Anwar, the film follows a group of people who experience supernatural terror while visiting the orphanage where they grew up.

The film combines traditional horror elements with a modern approach, resulting in an intense and suspenseful viewing experience. With stunning visuals and a thrilling storyline, “Ratu Ilmu Hitam” attracted over 1 million moviegoers, demonstrating that remakes of classic horror films still hold strong appeal among Indonesian audiences.

These films were not only commercially successful but also received praise from critics and audiences, proving that Indonesian horror films have great potential for continued growth and innovation in the future. With compelling stories, meticulous execution, and a deep understanding of local culture, Indonesian horror films offer a unique and unforgettable viewing experience.

4. Why Are Horror Movies So Popular?

Horror films have a unique appeal to audiences. The fear they evoke is often accompanied by an adrenaline rush that makes viewers feel drawn to the story. Furthermore, horror films often tackle themes related to everyday life, such as family conflict, friendship, and love, all wrapped in a mystical atmosphere.

In Indonesia, a culture rich in mystical stories and urban legends also contributes to the popularity of horror films. The abundance of myths and folklore spread across various regions provides an endless source of inspiration for filmmakers.

5. Challenges in Horror Film Production

Although horror films have a large fan base, producing them is no easy feat. The biggest challenge is creating realistic and frightening horror effects without being over-the-top. Furthermore, a strong storyline and relatable characters are also key to a successful horror film.

Filmmakers must be able to craft a story meticulously and pay attention to every detail, from the choice of filming locations and the soundtrack to the actors’ performances. All of these elements must work together to create a thrilling and satisfying viewing experience.

6. The Future of Indonesian Horror Films

With technological advancements and the creativity of filmmakers, the future of Indonesian horror films looks bright. More and more quality horror films are being produced, both for local and international markets. Filmmakers are also becoming more daring in exploring new themes and presenting fresher and more challenging stories.

Collaborations with international filmmakers and participation in international film festivals also open up greater opportunities for Indonesian horror films to gain recognition on the global stage. Thus, Indonesian horror films are not only thrilling spectacles but also a vital part of the nation’s proud film industry.

Closing

Indonesian horror films that attract the highest audiences in cinemas are not just entertainment, but also reflect the creativity and innovation of filmmakers in presenting quality stories. By combining local elements with modern cinematography techniques, these films have captivated audiences and proven that the horror genre holds a special place in the Indonesian film industry. We should be proud of this achievement and look forward to future works that will be just as thrilling.