Horror films consistently secure a spot as one of Indonesia’s top movie genres. Their gripping storytelling and eerie local myths draw millions of viewers to cinemas every year. For Indonesian audiences, horror movies are not just entertainment but also a unique way to experience and process superstitious beliefs that thrive in many regions.
The success of Indonesia’s top horror titles is a testament to their strong hold over the public imagination. Over the years, many have broken records and set new benchmarks in the local film industry. Here is a detailed look at the seven best-selling Indonesian horror films, each breaking box office records and achieving historical milestones.
1. KKN di Desa Penari
This film stands as Indonesia’s best-selling horror movie of all time. “KKN di Desa Penari” has captivated over 10 million viewers in theaters, a record that no other local film has achieved in the genre. Its plot centers on a group of university students engaged in community service at a remote village, only to be caught in a web of supernatural terror.
The cast is led by Tissa Biani, Adinda Thomas, and Aghniny Haque, and their performances contributed significantly to the film’s popularity. The movie’s massive success also led to a prequel, demonstrating its cultural impact and audience demand.
2. Pengabdi Setan 2: Communion
“Pengabdi Setan 2: Communion” follows the acclaimed 2017 film and maintains director Joko Anwar’s reputation for high-quality horror. It attracted over 6.3 million viewers, making it one of the strongest sequels in Indonesian cinema history.
The story delves into a series of horrific events inside a government-owned housing complex. With Tara Basro taking a key role, the sequel succeeded in amplifying the terror and suspense, building on the eerie foundation of the original film.
3. Vina: Sebelum 7 Hari
“Vina: Sebelum 7 Hari” stands out not just for its horror elements but also for the real-life controversy inspiring its story. The movie surpassed 5.8 million viewers, quickly cementing its place among Indonesia’s top horror successes.
Directed by Anggy Umbara, the plot follows the story of Vina (played by Nayla D. Purnama) whose tragic death turns into a ghostly mystery. It was initially ruled an accident, but as the film progresses, Vina’s spirit reveals a more sinister truth involving a violent motorcycle gang, which shocked audiences and contributed to its high public interest.
4. Sewu Dino
Directed by Kimo Stamboel, “Sewu Dino” brings a supernatural tale that achieved over 4.8 million viewers. The narrative focuses on Sri Rahayu (Mikha Tambayong), a woman recruited to perform a traditional ritual at the Atmodjo family estate.
As the story unravels, Sri encounters increasingly harrowing supernatural events, combining folklore with gripping suspense. The film’s portrayal of Javanese mystical rituals gives it a cultural depth that sets it apart from conventional horror offerings.
5. Kang Mak from Pee Mak
This entry is a local adaptation of the famed Thai horror comedy “Pee Mak.” The Indonesian version, starring Vino G. Bastian and Marsha Timothy, resonated strongly with audiences, garnering more than 4.8 million viewers.
Kang Mak centers on Makmur, a soldier returning home to find his wife Sari, who suffered tragedy during his absence. Unlike other straight-laced horror films, “Kang Mak from Pee Mak” blends elements of comedy and romance with chilling moments, appealing to a broad spectrum of moviegoers.
6. Pabrik Gula
With more than 4.7 million ticket sales, “Pabrik Gula” confirms the enduring appeal of Indonesian horror films inspired by local urban legends and haunted workplaces.
Set in a sugar factory, the story follows a group of workers who unwittingly disrupt a forbidden area, unleashing a cascade of terrifying supernatural events. The film’s blend of real-life industrial settings and horror mythology creates a uniquely unsettling atmosphere that resonates well with viewers familiar with both modern and traditional Indonesia.
7. Pengabdi Setan
This film reboots the classic Indonesian title from the early eighties. “Pengabdi Setan” was embraced by a new generation, attracting more than 4.2 million viewers upon release.
Written and directed by Joko Anwar, the story revolves around a family haunted by the secrets of their ailing mother. The film’s cast, including Tara Basro and Bront Palarae, elevates its chilling portrayal of generational trauma and occult terror. As noted by reputable film data, its success also laid the groundwork for the record-breaking sequel.
Overview Table: Top-Selling Indonesian Horror Films
| Rank | Title | Director | Number of Viewers |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | KKN di Desa Penari | — | 10 million+ |
| 2 | Pengabdi Setan 2: Communion | Joko Anwar | 6.3 million+ |
| 3 | Vina: Sebelum 7 Hari | Anggy Umbara | 5.8 million+ |
| 4 | Sewu Dino | Kimo Stamboel | 4.8 million+ |
| 5 | Kang Mak from Pee Mak | — | 4.8 million+ |
| 6 | Pabrik Gula | — | 4.7 million+ |
| 7 | Pengabdi Setan | Joko Anwar | 4.2 million+ |
Trends and Impact in the Indonesian Horror Box Office
Box office data shows a clear trend: horror films achieve both critical acclaim and commercial success in Indonesia. Their storylines, often rooted in urban legends and supernatural folklore, provide solid hooks for audience engagement.
Moreover, the large audiences are not limited to horror fans alone, but also include many casual moviegoers intrigued by the unique mix of fear, local culture, and often, social commentary.
Directors like Joko Anwar and Kimo Stamboel continue to elevate Indonesian horror through their distinctive styles and storytelling choices. The industry’s growing investment in production values and marketing has also played a key role, helping these films break past old records and reach wider audiences.
The lasting popularity of these movies points to an ever-increasing demand for horror content in Indonesian entertainment. This genre’s box office dominance highlights a strong connection between local mythology and modern storytelling, marking Indonesia as one of the leading horror markets in Asia. For anyone exploring Indonesian cinema, these best-selling titles are a definitive entry point for understanding both contemporary trends and cultural narratives in the nation’s film industry.
