AT the beginning of Malam Para Jahanam (Night of Hell), viewers are treated to a tantalising mix of eerie atmospheres, unsettling flashbacks and a promise of supernatural terror. Directed by Indra Gunawan, this horror flick stars Harris Illano Vriza and Aghniny Haque, who lead an ensemble cast through a spooky journey in the remote village of Winongo.
The setup is classic. Rendi, accompanied by his friends Martin and Siska, travels to the secluded Winongo village to properly observe his grandfather’s last rites. The opening sequences are steeped in tension and mystery, with the trio soon discovering that Winongo is haunted by vengeful spirits. The audience is hooked as they watch the characters navigate a series of chilling incidents linked to a bloody historical conflict from 1965.
Creeps and quirks
As the story unfolds, the film expertly balances moments of genuine horror with unexpected bursts of dark humour. The scene where the hearse breaks down and the group encounters hostile spirits is executed with a blend of suspense and absurdity, making viewers jump and chuckle in equal measure.
Indra’s direction keeps the pace brisk, and the performances from the lead actors are engaging enough to maintain interest. The film builds on the lore of Winongo’s tragic past, incorporating elements of Indonesian history with the supernatural. The narrative suggests that the spirits are avenging a historical injustice, which adds a layer of depth to the typical haunted village trope.
