Indonesia’s horror film “Abadi Nan Jaya” has reached the top position on Netflix’s Global Top 10 Non-English Film list. Over eleven million viewers have watched this zombie-themed original film just days after its global release.
Directed by Kimo Stamboel, the movie led the Top 10 films in five countries while appearing in the Top 10 in seventy-five countries. The film also ranked highly in leading markets such as Japan, South Korea, Germany, France, and Brazil. According to the Netflix weekly data, its quick rise demonstrates growing international interest in local Indonesian storytelling.
A New Kind of Zombie Story
Kimo Stamboel explained that his intention was to present a zombie thriller deeply rooted in Indonesian culture. “From jamu, Javanese villages, to family dynamics, I wanted to create a zombie film that feels truly Indonesian,” said Kimo in a press release. The project successfully showcases a fresh horror experience by integrating unique local elements.
The storyline centers on a family running a famous herbal medicine business in a remote village near Yogyakarta. The father’s ambition to remain powerful and stay young actually triggers a family conflict and a sudden zombie outbreak. Original scriptwriting from Kimo, Khalid Kashogi, and Agasyah Karim, and the production led by Edwin Nazir, reinforced the authenticity of the film’s narrative.
Cultural Identity and International Recognition
The film is praised internationally for blending traditional Indonesian culture with intense horror. Audiences commended the unique design of its zombies, which took inspiration from the tropical pitcher plant, a carnivorous species native to Indonesia. With these details, the zombies are not merely walking corpses, but terrifying creatures emerging from local folklore and nature.
Eva Celia, who played Karina, received acclaim for her performance especially during the tense family conflicts and survival scenes. “It was a memorable experience bringing a story rooted in Indonesian culture to a global audience,” Eva stated in interviews. The response from international viewers has proven that local stories can resonate on a worldwide scale.
Key Information about “Abadi Nan Jaya”
- Achieved No. 1 on Netflix Global Top 10 Non-English Films
- Seen by more than 11 million viewers globally
- Featured in Top 10 lists in 75 countries
- Cast includes Mikha Tambayong, Eva Celia, Marthino Lio, Dimas Anggara, and Donny Damara
- Developed by director Kimo Stamboel, writers Khalid Kashogi and Agasyah Karim, and producer Edwin Nazir
The cast and crew’s creative approach, including on-set risk-taking and detailed choreography for zombie scenes, added depth to the film’s realism. Industry feedback highlights the film’s ability to blend universal horror with distinctively Indonesian visuals and themes.
“Abadi Nan Jaya” is streaming globally on Netflix. The film’s international success signals a growing recognition for Indonesian stories in world cinema.
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