When it comes to the film industry, the horror genre certainly offers one of the biggest opportunities for success. Indonesian audiences seem to have an insatiable appetite for horror stories. Their curiosity always seems to spark an intense desire to uncover a mystery, no matter how eerie or unsettling it may be. This fascination with the supernatural isn't limited to just films-short, often dubious horror stories circulating on social media, sprinkled with elements of the mystical, can easily attract a large readership.
Honestly, I wasn't particularly eager to watch this film. For some reason, I wasn't willing to build up any high expectations. I know I shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but that's how I felt going into it. What eventually led me to watch the film was simply accompanying a friend. And, as it turned out, going in with low expectations was the right approach.
Overall, the film does succeed in creating an ominous atmosphere right from the opening scene. The dim lighting and eerie sound design immediately set the tone, making the audience feel uneasy. However, for those with a weaker constitution, fear not-this film doesn't go overboard with its horror elements. The jump scares, though present, are balanced and not overly intense, making it accessible even for viewers who might not be the most comfortable with extreme horror.
Blood and gore are staples in any horror movie, and Rambut Kafan is no exception. Yet, the film manages to keep the bloody scenes relatively tame, making it suitable for a broader audience who may find excessive violence off-putting. The film doesn't rely on shock value to scare its viewers, which might be a relief for some.
A standout in this film is Bulan Sutena, a fresh face in the industry who plays a pivotal role. Sutena delivers a solid performance, showing promise as an actress. She proves the critics wrong, who had previously dismissed her as someone relying only on her looks to get by. Her performance is a refreshing change, offering a glimpse into the potential of new talent in Indonesian cinema.
The film's biggest flaw, however, lies in its predictable storyline. The plot is very straightforward and offers little in terms of surprise. The premise, which revolves around the supernatural consequences of greed, has been explored in countless horror films from the 2000s. The use of pesugihan (a form of dark magic or witchcraft) as the source of the horror events is a well-worn trope, one that will feel familiar to anyone who has seen even a handful of local horror movies. For those of us who've watched hundreds of Indonesian horror films, this theme feels repetitive and uninspired.
This sense of déjà vu becomes even more apparent when you compare it to the quality and creativity of modern horror films, which have grown more sophisticated and innovative. In contrast, this film feels like it's stuck in the past, unable to keep up with the evolving genre. Many recent horror films have introduced fresh, unique concepts that stray far from the clichés of old. Sadly, Rambut Kafan doesn't offer much in terms of new ideas or inventive storytelling, making it seem outdated in comparison.
In the end, Rambut Kafan isn't a terrible film, but it certainly doesn't stand out in a crowded genre. It's a film that delivers the basic thrills and chills of a horror movie without pushing boundaries or offering much in terms of originality. If you're a fan of classic Indonesian horror tropes, it may entertain you. But for those seeking something more inventive or groundbreaking, it might feel like a missed opportunity.
