Ngeri-Ngeri Sedap

Ngeri-Ngeri Sedap (2022) takes you straight into the heart of a Batak family reunion with warmth, humor, and just the right pinch of tension. From the moment the Domu parents' elaborate "divorce" ruse kicks off, you're hooked by the playful banter and the authentic Batak backdrop-Lake Toba never looked so inviting. The chemistry between the family members feels genuine, and their squabbles land with enough levity to keep you smiling without ever sliding into slapstick territory.

What really sells this one is how it balances hearty laughs with moments that tug at your heartstrings. Bene Dion Rajagukguk's direction ensures the pacing doesn't drag, weaving in cultural touches-like the pulsing soundtrack and traditional rituals-without ever feeling like a museum exhibit. The leads bring a natural warmth to their roles, and you'll find yourself rooting for everyone, even the grumpiest dad, as they learn to bend traditions to make room for modern lives.

Sure, the "fake divorce" setup is a familiar hook, and a few of the plot beats follow predictable family-drama patterns. But the film's genuine affection for its characters and its willingness to poke at patriarchal stubbornness keep things fresh. By the final scene, you'll be grinning-and maybe misty-eyed-appreciating just how "ngeri" and "sedap" family life can be.

Everything is perfect. The story is very strong. The flow from beginning to the end is very smooth. Tika's acting wonderfull. Colouring with relevant and beautiful Batak' song. Indonesian movie is really advancing. Endorsing you and all family, if possible with your dad and mom, watching the movie together...

This movie is able to create a perfect example of how a "comedy based actor/actress movie" should be done. There's no need to excessive gimmick or trying to make every actor/actress stand out for their own known persona.

The story itself contains emotional rollercoaster and success to raise the common family problems based on culture and all the transitions happening on current parent-child generation gap.

Kudos to everyone that involved in this movie, there's no flop moment on acting or scenes. Would love to see your next project.

Every detail and storyline made for this film is based on the true story of most Indonesian families, especially Batak families.

In this film, bene dion turns some comedians into actors and turns actors into comedians. As a film connoisseur, this film proves that Bene Dion is a genius director and writer.

Congratulations to all the crew of Ngeri-Ngeri Sedap!

Horas!

There's a lot of hype about this movie in social media so I give it a go once it's on Netflix. I am not a Bataknese but I can understand the jokes and even learn alot about Batak culture. I really enjoy and feel immersed with the culture and watching as the story unfolds around it. The director did a very good job telling the story while showing the beautiful scenery around the characters hometown and the family customs. It surely is a homage to Indonesia's rich nature and culture.

The strong message about parenting, growth, and patriarchal society that inflicts to the damage for both women and men are all well delivered. You might cry at some heated and difficult dialogues, like me.