10+ Indonesian Horror Movies On Netflix To Watch Now!
Hey guys! Looking for a good scare? You've come to the right place! Indonesian horror movies are known for being seriously spooky, and Netflix has a bunch of them ready to stream. So, grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and let's dive into some seriously creepy recommendations. Here are 10+ Indonesian horror films you can watch on Netflix right now, that will keep you up all night!
Why Indonesian Horror Movies are So Scary
Before we jump into the recommendations, let's talk about why Indonesian horror movies are so effective. These movies often tap into deep-seated cultural beliefs and folklore, making the scares feel more real and relatable. You'll often see elements of traditional mythology, black magic (santet), and vengeful spirits (kuntilanak, pocong) that are ingrained in the local psyche. This cultural connection adds layers of authenticity and dread that you might not find in Western horror films.
Indonesian horror movies also excel at creating a chilling atmosphere. They often use slow burns, building suspense with eerie sounds, unsettling visuals, and a sense of impending doom. Jump scares are definitely part of the package, but they're usually well-timed and genuinely startling, rather than relying on cheap thrills. The use of traditional Indonesian settings, like old houses, dark forests, and remote villages, adds to the overall sense of unease and isolation. The directors often take their time to establish the mood, letting the tension simmer before unleashing the full force of the horror.
Another reason why Indonesian horror films are so scary is their focus on the supernatural and the afterlife. Many of these movies explore the consequences of breaking taboos, disturbing ancestral spirits, or dabbling in dark magic. The ghosts and demons in these films aren't just random monsters; they often have specific motives and backstories, making them more compelling and terrifying. The themes of revenge, guilt, and unresolved trauma are common, adding a psychological dimension to the scares. You'll find yourself not just jumping at the scary moments, but also thinking about the deeper meanings behind the horror. Plus, the acting in these movies is often top-notch, with the actors fully committing to their roles and conveying the fear and desperation of their characters. This realism makes the scares even more impactful.
Top 10+ Indonesian Horror Movie Recommendations on Netflix
Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some must-watch Indonesian horror movies available on Netflix right now:
1. May the Devil Take You (2018) & May the Devil Take You Too (2020)
Okay, guys, if you're looking for something seriously intense, you HAVE to watch May the Devil Take You and its sequel, May the Devil Take You Too. These movies are not for the faint of heart! The story revolves around a family haunted by dark forces after their father makes a deal with the devil for wealth and success. What follows is a rollercoaster of demonic possession, gruesome violence, and psychological terror that will leave you breathless.
Timo Tjahjanto, the director, is a master of creating a truly terrifying atmosphere. He doesn't hold back on the gore and the scares, but he also knows how to build suspense and create a sense of dread that permeates every scene. The performances are incredible, with Chelsea Islan delivering a standout performance as Alfie, the main character who must confront the demonic forces to save her family. The visual effects are also top-notch, adding to the overall sense of horror and realism. The first movie sets the stage, introducing the characters and the dark secrets that haunt them. As Alfie and her step-siblings investigate their father's past, they uncover a horrifying truth that puts them all in danger. The sequel takes things to an even more extreme level, with more intense scares, more gruesome violence, and a more complex storyline. Alfie must team up with a group of orphaned children to fight against a powerful demonic cult that threatens to consume them all.
If you're a fan of demonic possession movies like Evil Dead or The Exorcist, you'll definitely appreciate these films. They're not just cheap rip-offs, though. They bring their own unique Indonesian flavor to the genre, incorporating elements of local mythology and folklore. Just be warned: these movies are not for the squeamish! They're packed with graphic violence, disturbing imagery, and plenty of jump scares. But if you're looking for a truly terrifying experience, May the Devil Take You and May the Devil Take You Too are definitely worth watching.
2. Queen of Black Magic (2019)
Get ready for some seriously dark magic! Queen of Black Magic is a remake of the 1981 classic, and it definitely lives up to its terrifying reputation. The story follows a group of friends who return to the orphanage where they grew up, only to find themselves targeted by a vengeful spirit using black magic. This movie is a masterclass in building suspense and creating a sense of unease.
The atmosphere is thick with dread, and the scares are both psychological and physical. Director Kimo Stamboel knows how to get under your skin, using disturbing imagery and unsettling sound design to create a truly nightmarish experience. The performances are excellent, with each actor fully committing to their role and conveying the fear and desperation of their characters. The story is well-crafted, slowly revealing the dark secrets of the orphanage and the motivations of the vengeful spirit. You'll find yourself on the edge of your seat, trying to piece together the mystery and figure out who will survive. One of the things that makes Queen of Black Magic so effective is its use of practical effects. The gore and violence are realistic and visceral, adding to the overall sense of horror. There are also some truly disturbing scenes that will stay with you long after the movie is over.
This isn't just a simple horror movie; it's a story about revenge, trauma, and the consequences of past actions. The characters are complex and flawed, and you'll find yourself invested in their fate, even as they face unimaginable horrors. If you're a fan of movies like The Witch or Hereditary, you'll definitely appreciate the slow-burn atmosphere and the focus on psychological terror. Just be prepared for some seriously disturbing content! Queen of Black Magic is not for the faint of heart, but it's a must-watch for any horror fan.
3. Impetigore (2019)
Impetigore, also known as Perempuan Tanah Jahanam, is a visually stunning and incredibly creepy horror film that blends elements of Indonesian folklore with a modern ghost story. The film follows Maya, a woman who returns to her ancestral village after learning that she may inherit property there. However, she soon discovers that the village is cursed and that the villagers are desperate to kill her to lift the curse.
Joko Anwar, the director, is a master of creating a sense of dread and unease. He uses beautiful cinematography to contrast with the gruesome violence and disturbing imagery, creating a film that is both visually appealing and deeply unsettling. The story is complex and well-developed, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. You'll find yourself drawn into the mystery of the village and the curse, as Maya uncovers the dark secrets of her family's past. The performances are excellent, with Tara Basro delivering a standout performance as Maya. She perfectly captures the character's vulnerability and determination as she fights to survive against the odds. The supporting cast is also strong, with each actor bringing their own unique flavor to their role.
One of the things that makes Impetigore so effective is its use of Indonesian folklore. The film incorporates elements of traditional mythology and beliefs, adding a layer of authenticity and cultural richness to the story. You'll learn about the javanese traditions and the beliefs surrounding the afterlife, which adds to the overall sense of dread and unease. If you're a fan of movies like The Babadook or It Follows, you'll definitely appreciate the slow-burn atmosphere and the focus on psychological terror. Impetigore is a must-watch for any horror fan looking for something unique and unsettling.
4. The 3rd Eye (2017) & The 3rd Eye 2 (2019)
Ever wonder what it's like to see ghosts? The 3rd Eye movies explore just that! The story revolves around two sisters, Alia and Abel, who have different experiences with the supernatural. After the death of their parents, Alia decides to open her third eye, allowing her to see spirits. However, she soon discovers that not all spirits are friendly, and she must learn to control her newfound ability to protect herself and her sister.
These movies are a great mix of suspense, jump scares, and supernatural elements. They delve into the complexities of family relationships and the challenges of dealing with the unknown. The performances are solid, with the actresses portraying the sisters convincingly. The special effects are well-done, bringing the ghostly apparitions to life in a way that is both creepy and believable. In the second movie, the story expands, introducing new characters and exploring new aspects of the supernatural world. Alia and Abel must face even greater dangers as they confront a powerful entity that threatens to destroy everything they hold dear.
What makes The 3rd Eye movies appealing is their focus on the emotional connection between the characters. The sisters' bond is tested as they navigate the terrifying world of ghosts and demons, and their love for each other is ultimately what helps them to survive. If you enjoy movies like The Sixth Sense or Insidious, you'll likely find The 3rd Eye movies to be entertaining and engaging.
5. Sebelum Iblis Menjemput Ayat 2 / May the Devil Take You Too (2020)
As a continuation of the first movie, Sebelum Iblis Menjemput Ayat 2 presents a more thrilling and terrifying story. Still directed by Timo Tjahjanto, this film tells about Alfie's struggle to escape from demonic pursuits after her encounter with the devil. This film is full of intense scenes and unexpected twists.
Alfie, played by Chelsea Islan, still becomes the main character who struggles to protect herself and her friends from the devil's terror. The horror atmosphere is built very well, with visual effects and sound that support every scene. The story becomes more complex with the emergence of new characters and increasingly dangerous challenges. This movie is perfect for those of you who like fast-paced horror with lots of surprises.
6. Ivanna (2022)
Ivanna tells the story of Ambar, a young woman with special abilities, who is caught in a conflict with the spirit of a Dutch woman named Ivanna during the Japanese colonial period. This film combines elements of history and horror, creating a unique and gripping story.
Directed by Kimo Stamboel, Ivanna offers stunning visuals and a gripping storyline. The characters are well-developed, and the atmosphere is filled with suspense from beginning to end. This film explores themes of trauma, revenge, and the dark side of history. For fans of historical horror with deep emotional elements, Ivanna is a must-watch.
7. Ratu Ilmu Hitam / The Queen of Black Magic (2019)
As a remake of the classic film, Ratu Ilmu Hitam (2019) tells the story of a family visiting an orphanage where terrifying events begin to occur. This film is full of black magic elements and terrifying scenes that will make you hold your breath.
Directed by Kimo Stamboel, this film features strong performances from the cast and stunning visual effects. The story is dark and full of twists, exploring themes of revenge and the consequences of past actions. Ratu Ilmu Hitam is perfect for those of you who like horror films with complex stories and lots of surprises.
8. Pengabdi Setan 2: Communion / Satan's Slaves 2: Communion (2022)
Continuing the success of the first film, Pengabdi Setan 2: Communion tells the story of a family trapped in an old apartment after their mother's death. Mysterious and terrifying events begin to haunt them, revealing dark secrets from the past.
Directed by Joko Anwar, this film offers a horror atmosphere that is even more intense and terrifying. The visual effects and sound design are very well done, creating an immersive and spine-chilling experience. The story is full of suspense and will keep you on the edge of your seat. This film is a must-watch for fans of the Pengabdi Setan series and those who love intense horror films.
9. Munafik 2 (2018)
Although technically a Malaysian film, Munafik 2 has gained immense popularity in Indonesia. This film tells the story of a religious healer who faces increasingly dangerous and terrifying challenges in battling evil spirits.
Directed by Syamsul Yusof, Munafik 2 offers a thrilling and intense horror experience. The film explores themes of faith, inner conflict, and the struggle against evil. With strong performances and stunning visual effects, this film will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. For fans of religious horror and supernatural thrillers, Munafik 2 is a great choice.
10. Perempuan Bergaun Merah / The Woman in Red (2022)
Perempuan Bergaun Merah tells the story of Dinda, a college student whose life turns into a nightmare after she is haunted by a ghost in a red dress. Mysterious and terrifying events begin to terrorize her, revealing dark secrets about her past.
Directed by William Chandra, this film offers a suspenseful and terrifying horror experience. The story is full of twists and will keep you guessing until the very end. With strong performances from the cast and stunning visual effects, Perempuan Bergaun Merah is a must-watch for fans of supernatural horror and ghost stories.
Get Ready to Scream!
So there you have it, guys! More than 10 Indonesian horror movies on Netflix that are guaranteed to give you a good scare. Whether you're into demonic possessions, black magic, or vengeful spirits, there's something on this list for everyone. Just remember to watch with the lights off for the full effect! Sweet dreams... or maybe nightmares!
