Danur: I Can See Ghosts

Danur: I Can See Ghosts is an Indonesian horror movie released in 2017. Directed by Awi Suryadi, it features an impressive lineup of talents, with a stellar performance from Prilly Latuconsina in the lead role alongside Sandrinna Michelle and Shareefa Daanish. Based on the best-selling novel of the same name, written by Risa Saraswati, this film will grab your attention right from its opening scenes and does not let go until the very end.

The narrative unfolds around the central character named Risa. Prilly Latuconsina brilliantly portrays Risa, a young woman with extraordinary power: the ability to see and communicate with ghosts. Risa's world changes considerably when she moves to a mansion inherited from her late grandmother with her mother and younger brother.

The film delves into the exploration of Risa's relationship with her three ghost friends: Peter, William, and Janshen, who are beaconed to her since her childhood due to her unique abilities. As the plot deepens, Risa’s sense of normalcy is jostled. She finds herself conflicted as she tries to balance her mundane life with the spectral world she perceives.

Sandrinna Michelle plays Risa's younger brother, Riri, a curious, pure-hearted boy who begins to explore the ancient mansion. Shareefa Daanish as Risa's mother attempts to protect her children from the increasing spectral activity in the house admirably.

Another notable aspect of Danur: I Can See Ghosts is cinematography. The director uses contrasting warm and cold tones, showcasing the beauty of the mansion while communicating the eerie sensations that permeate its every corner. This results in some visually stunning scenes that elicit a range of emotions, from unsettling fear to intense aesthetic appreciation.

The film also indicates the emphasis on family relationships, their love, and support for one another. The performances of Prilly Latuconsina, Sandrinna Michelle, and Shareefa Daanish speak volumes about their characters' bond, showcasing the lengths they will go to protect each other while navigating through the supernatural challenges they encounter.

In terms of storytelling, the film cleverly connects the seemingly unrelated events, subtly intertwining the supernatural with the natural world that Risa inhabits. This results in a few unexpected, thrilling twists that keep viewers on edge.

Danur: I Can See Ghosts consists of elements that strike a balance between psychological horror and supernatural chills. The film supplements this with psychological elements that deal with fear and helplessness, humanizing what could have been another run-of-the-mill horror story.

While the film incorporates the traditional jump scares expected from the genre, there is a larger story being told about Risa and her relationship with her ghost friends grounded in empathy and understanding. This unique mix of childhood innocence blended with elements of the supernatural is pivotal in building the film's depth and richness that extends beyond the scope of traditional Indonesian horror cinema.

The haunting sound design is another outstanding feature, creating an immersive atmosphere that amplifies every nuance of the film's mood. From ominous whispers to bone-chilling winds, the sound design plays a vital role in insinuating the unexplainable happenings in the mansion.

Danur: I Can See Ghosts is more than just a horror film. It is an emotionally captivating tale that deftly walks the line between the supernatural and the human desire for friendship, companionship, and one's struggle with their extraordinary abilities. The horror elements play their part well but are quintessentially secondary to the emotionally-driven narrative.

In essence, this movie is a must-watch for those who enjoy a good horror flick with depth, good storytelling, and a fantastic cast. It's a film that will transfix you while it skillfully weaves its narrative around you, pulling you deeper into its world with every scene. It's certainly not for the faint-hearted, but for those who can stand its chills, it promises an enthralling ride from beginning to end.