Pemandi Jenazah

The problem with Indonesian and Hollywood horror is their over-dependence on ineffective, predictable jump scares. Atmospheric horror is something the Indonesian have always failed to execute, despite the country's rich cultural tradition and beautiful landscapes.

The lazy use of conventional camera angles is almost as disappointing as the wheat flour on the ghosts. It is almost as if the film-makers aren't horror fans at all.

Story-wise, from the get go it was a bit too obvious, with the nosey ladies bickering over widowhood. Lela being tasked with cleaning the corpse completely unaided also does not reflect the reality of a typical Southeast Asian village-what happened to fardhu kifayah and gotong-royong? There's always that one monosyllabic, antisocial guy/gal to inject a feeling of mystery, and I'm really really tired of seeing this.

The only fresh element is how the evil spirits were portrayed to seem unfazed by the quranic verses and loud chanting of the mourners; a trope more commonly seen in western horror films. I imagine this would create some form of controversy among the more conservative audiences in places like Malaysia.

At least Indonesia is moving away from softcore porno in their horror films.

Another disappointment, unfortunately.

Its predictable plot and clichéd elements. While lacking originality, it is also comes with typical jump scares, try to creating an eerie atmosphere. Performances are decent, but the dialogue feels unnatural. Despite its flaws, it delivers passable horror entertainment for those seeking straightforward thrills.

The cinematography enhances the ominous atmosphere, though the characters and dialogue fall into familiar territory. Overall, it's an okay choice for a movie night at home.

It you are looking for mind bended or unique storyline, then this is not the movie you are looking for. The lack of suspense is quite disappointing.

The Corpse Washer follows familiar tropes and ideas but introduces some unique elements and social commentary. Lela, a young mortician, is unhappy with her life and the work she inherited from her family, especially since her mother insists on keeping it as a tradition. After her mother suddenly dies, Lela notices something odd about her body while washing it, unraveling secrets from the past with dire consequences.

The premise is simple yet intriguing, featuring some interesting elements. Lela and the other characters are mostly likable, and the actors deliver commendable performances. The acting is a bit uneven at times, especially from minor characters, but it's not too distracting.

The film heavily relies on jump scares and rarely takes the time to build a tense atmosphere. Instead, it bombards viewers with scary faces and loud noises. To its credit, the makeup and effects are well done, preventing it from feeling like a low-budget jumpscare fest. However, the movie doesn't fully reach its potential and could have been more engaging.

It's a decent watch, with a reasonable 107-minute runtime, so you won't feel like you've wasted over two hours if it doesn't fully click for you. If you enjoy Indonesian cinema, especially horror, you might want to give it a try, though it's unlikely to leave a lasting impression. [5,6/10]

There's a noticeable void in quality horror films these days, but this movie stands out as an exception. While the plot might become predictable within the first 40 minutes, the real thrill doesn't lie in the storyline but in the timing and unconventional camera angles that create genuine fear. What I crave in a horror movie is the feeling of being truly afraid, yet so many modern films are far too predictable in how and when they attempt to scare the audience. However, this director masterfully crafts each moment, delivering fear with precision and meticulous attention to detail. That's All!!

"Pemandi Jenazah" (The Corpse Washer) is a deeply emotional and contemplative film that tackles themes of death, tradition, and the human condition. Set in a small Indonesian village, it explores the life of a young man who works as a body washer, preparing the dead for their final rites. Through his work, the film delves into the rituals and complexities of Indonesian Muslim culture, touching on personal grief, spiritual connection, and societal expectations.

The cinematography is beautiful, capturing the simplicity of rural life while juxtaposing it with the profound and often heavy subject matter. The performances are nuanced, particularly the lead actor, who brings a raw and authentic portrayal of a man struggling with his role in life and his personal loss.

While the film is slow-paced and reflective, it may not be for everyone due to its heavy, introspective nature. However, for viewers who appreciate films that explore life's deeper questions, "Pemandi Jenazah" offers a rewarding, thought-provoking experience.