Impetigore

Impetigore is a haunting Indonesian folklore horror film released in 2019. This thrilling psychological horror flick is directed by the prominent Indonesian filmmaker Joko Anwar, whose unique vision and craft are known to create a blend of deep-seated creepiness and unnerving terror. Anwar continues his love affair with horror by painting a chilling tapestry hinged on cultural superstitions, belief in black magic, and the raw power of fear. The movie stars the award-winning Indonesian actress Tara Basro, along with Ario Bayu and Marissa Anita, delivering impeccable performances that enhance the movie's eerie undertones.

Impetigore commences in a city setting where we see Maya (Tara Basro), a toll booth operator and her best friend, Dini (Marissa Anita), eke out a living. Maya, initially seen as an ordinary woman with a regular job, is haunted by her strange past without her realizing it. Despite an unfavorable encounter with a deranged man who believes Maya to be a person she isn’t, she gains information concerning her past and the truth of her controversial family background tied to a secluded village, Harjosari. This villagers believe Maya has inherited the curse upon them, and they believe this curse will only go away if they kill Maya. Plagued by her disturbing dreams and yearning to change her miserable financial state, she ventures convincingly enough to investigate the village, which she believes holds answers to her past and a possible inheritance. Dini, out of loyalty, accompanies Maya on her treacherous journey.

Upon arriving, the duo is met with an ominous vibe, that surpasses the normal discomfort of a stranger being in an isolated village. The village and its residents are cloaked in an aura of estrangement, superstition, and mistrust, something quite common in small remote communities with an undiluted faith in distinctive local folklore. This dark and culturally entwined veil doesn't deter Maya. She takes these village peculiarities as challenges and navigates her way through to unveil the cryptic veracities of her past. Ario Bayu’s character, Ki Saptadi, a puppeteer and community influencer, adds an important touch to the story with his intriguing character arc building up the suspense and mystery in the horror.

Impetigore is not your standard horror flick. It delves deep into the Indonesian Javanese culture, specifically shadow puppetry, a traditional form of storytelling, and plays up the esoteric elements of this folklore to a bone-chilling effect. The film emphasizes the contrast between modern Jakarta's urban life and the secluded village life of Harjosari, highlighting the clash between tradition and modernity, rural superstition and urban skepticism, in a subtle and thought-provoking way.

The film's terror runs deeper than jump scares and gratuitous violence; its strength lies in its unnerving tension and slow-burn suspense. The director takes a psychological approach to fear, where terror is implied rather than explicitly depicted. Unsettling scenes are married with the beautiful cinematography of dimly lit sets, shadowy landscapes, and traditional puppet imagery that creates an atmosphere of perpetual tension.

The performances of the players, particularly Basro's portrayal of Maya, deserve special mention. She exhibits an astounding range of emotion from fear to determination, resilience, and vulnerability that keeps the audience emotionally invested in her character's journey.

Impetigore delivers a remarkable blend of traditional folklore and modern horror that leaves you at the edge of your seat. The film uses strategic pacing, varied horror elements, and an intelligent script to construct a gripping narrative that descends into a disturbing nightmare. Its potency not only lies in its horror elements but also its depth of narrative and solid character development that provides a wholesome cinematic experience.

In the end, Impetigore is more than a horror offering – it's a profound exploration of culture, heritage, and the terrifying power of belief. For fans of the genre looking for deep, haunting storytelling, this film is bound to be a memorable addition.