Pengabdi Setan

A SICK woman (Ayu) is confined to her bed, deathly ill. Whenever she needs help, she can only ring a bell for attention. Her husband (Bront) and their four children dedicate themselves to her care, but eventually, Ayu passes away.

After the funeral, the newly-widowed father has to go into town for a few days to settle the debts incurred during his late wife’s illness. The eldest child, Rini (Tara), is then tasked with looking after her three siblings.

But soon, all the children begin to notice that eerie events are taking place in their house. And late at night, they can hear a bell ringing from their late mother’s room. They suspect it may be her spirit, but why would a mother haunt her own children?

This film is a remake of an iconic Indonesian film from 1980. Interestingly, director Joko has decided to tell the story differently from the original version, maintaining only the basic plot revolving around a grieving widower and his children. Fortunately, his gamble paid off handsomely.

Ayu Laksmi, Bront Palarae, Tara Basro, and Dimas Aditya Director: Joko Anwar E-Value: 8 Acting: 8 Plot: 8

I have seen both versions and I must say both are scary and have their own strengths.

But if I have to make a choice, I will go for the newer version as it is less preachy, has more impactful performances from the cast, and has a higher production value.

Everyone in the cast shines, but the true standout is Tara. The film lies squarely on her shoulders, and she delivers an amazing performance. She brilliantly uses body language to express her fear, instead of resorting to tired clichés like screaming her head off.

Another outstanding performance is by Ayu. Even though she does not have any lines, her mere presence brings fear.

Joko always knows how to bring out the best from his cast. He has also successfully created a fearful atmosphere with the right soundtrack and location. Each time the bell rings, your heart rate will go up.

This film has been getting a lot of rave reviews, with some saying Pengabdi Setan is the scariest film that they have ever seen.

I confess that I enjoy watching it very much, and there were a few moments where I jumped from my seat. But to be frank, I find Joko’s previous film Pintu Terlarang to be more creepy than this one.

There are imperfections in Pengabdi Setan. But these imperfections can be easily overlooked. If you are thirsty for a taste of fear, then this film will quench that thirst.