Top 10 Indonesian Horror Films On Netflix

Alright guys, let's dive into the spooky side of Indonesian cinema available right now on Netflix! If you're a horror fanatic like me, you know that Indonesian filmmakers have a unique knack for delivering chills, thrills, and jump scares that hit differently. They blend ancient folklore, societal anxieties, and genuinely terrifying visuals into a concoction that's both familiar and refreshingly unique. We're talking about films that don't just rely on gore (though there's sometimes plenty of that!), but on atmosphere, psychological dread, and a deep understanding of what truly scares us. So grab your comfort blanket, dim the lights, and let's get ready to explore some of the most terrifying Indonesian horror movies you can stream on Netflix today. This list is curated to give you a solid mix, from supernatural hauntings to creature features and straight-up psychological nightmares. Get ready to be scared, because these picks are guaranteed to leave you with the lights on!

1. Impetigore (2019)

Kicking off our list is Impetigore, a film that absolutely blew audiences away and even snagged a spot at the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival. If you're looking for Indonesian horror that's steeped in tradition and genuinely unsettling, this is your jam. The story follows Maya and her friend Dini who travel to a remote village to claim an inheritance. What they find is anything but welcoming. The villagers are hostile, and it quickly becomes clear that Maya is connected to this place in a way she never imagined. The film masterfully weaves a tale of a family curse, a vengeful spirit, and a dark secret that the villagers are desperate to keep buried. Director Joko Anwar, a true master of the genre, crafts an atmosphere thick with dread. You'll feel the isolation of the village, the weight of the curse, and the sheer terror of what the past can unleash. The practical effects and creature design are top-notch, adding to the visceral horror. It’s a slow burn that builds to a truly explosive and horrifying climax. Impetigore isn't just about jump scares; it delves into themes of greed, karma, and the consequences of past actions. The way the narrative unfolds, revealing layers of deception and ancient magic, is incredibly compelling. You’ll be thinking about this one long after the credits roll, questioning the true nature of the curse and the motivations of the villagers. It’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates horror that’s both intelligent and deeply disturbing. The visual storytelling is also superb, with cinematography that emphasizes the bleakness and isolation of the setting. So, if you're ready for a folk horror experience that's both culturally rich and spine-chillingly effective, Impetigore should be at the very top of your watch list. It truly exemplifies the power and creativity of Indonesian horror filmmaking.

2. The Queen of Black Magic (2019)

Next up, we have another gem from Joko Anwar, The Queen of Black Magic. This film is a remake of the 1981 classic and it absolutely lives up to the legacy, bringing its dark magic and terrifying rituals to a new generation. The premise is simple yet potent: a group of estranged friends reunite at an orphanage they grew up in to celebrate the birthday of the man who raised them. However, their reunion takes a horrifying turn when the old man falls gravely ill, and dark, supernatural forces begin to manifest. What follows is a descent into madness and terror as they uncover the horrifying truth about the orphanage and the woman who wields the titular Queen of Black Magic. This movie is a masterclass in building suspense and delivering truly disturbing imagery. The magic system is based on Indonesian folklore, giving it an authentic and unsettling feel. We're talking about body horror, possession, and a palpable sense of dread that permeates every scene. The film doesn't shy away from the grotesque, and the practical effects used to depict the magical curses are viscerally effective. You'll find yourself gasping at the sheer audacity of some of the scenes. It’s a film that taps into primal fears – the fear of the unknown, the fear of losing control, and the fear of ancient, malevolent forces. The performances are also strong, particularly the actress playing the Queen, who embodies a chilling and powerful evil. The Queen of Black Magic is a great example of how Indonesian horror can be both culturally specific and universally terrifying. It’s a film that respects its source material while updating it with modern filmmaking techniques and a relentless pace. If you enjoy horror that's heavy on atmosphere, folklore, and genuinely shocking moments, this is an absolute winner. Prepare yourself for a ride that’s as intense as it is horrifying, showcasing the dark, mystical heart of Indonesian horror. It’s a film that stays with you, not just because of the scares, but because of the unsettling narrative and the sheer power of the evil depicted.

3. Satan's Slaves (2017)

Let's talk about Satan's Slaves, the film that truly put Joko Anwar back on the map for horror fans worldwide. This movie is a remake of a 1980 Indonesian horror classic, but it feels entirely fresh and terrifyingly relevant. The story centers on a family living in a remote house, struggling with the recent death of their mother. However, their grief is short-lived as strange and terrifying events begin to plague them. It soon becomes apparent that their mother hasn't truly departed; she's returned, not as the loving matriarch they knew, but as a ghastly entity summoned by a dark pact. The film excels at creating a suffocating atmosphere of dread and paranoia. You feel the family's isolation and their growing terror as they realize they are trapped with something ancient and evil. The visual style is stunning, with cinematography that enhances the spooky, gothic feel of their home. The jump scares are expertly timed, and the creature effects are genuinely disturbing, especially when depicting the possessed mother. What makes Satan's Slaves so effective is its blend of supernatural horror and family drama. The grief and desperation of the children trying to understand and survive the horrific events add an emotional layer to the terror. You really connect with their plight, making the scares hit even harder. It’s a testament to Anwar’s skill that he can balance these elements so effectively. The pacing is excellent, building tension gradually before unleashing moments of pure terror. The film also taps into deep-seated Indonesian superstitions and beliefs, adding an authentic cultural layer to the horror. If you’re looking for a film that offers more than just cheap thrills, a movie that’s atmospheric, character-driven, and genuinely frightening, then Satan's Slaves is an absolute must-watch. It’s a modern classic that showcases the enduring power of well-crafted horror. You'll be haunted by the imagery and the chilling narrative long after it ends, proving why Indonesian horror is a force to be reckoned with.

4. The Wailing (2016)

Okay, so while The Wailing isn't strictly an Indonesian film (it's South Korean), it's a critically acclaimed horror masterpiece that often gets grouped with international horror gems, and its themes resonate deeply with what makes Indonesian horror so potent – the fear of the unknown, the supernatural, and the breakdown of society. Plus, it's readily available on Netflix and absolutely deserves a spot on any horror fan's radar. The story unfolds in a remote South Korean village plagued by a mysterious illness and a series of brutal murders. A local police officer finds himself drawn into a terrifying investigation as he tries to uncover the truth behind these disturbing events. What he discovers is a complex web of demonic possession, shamanistic rituals, and a malevolent force that seems intent on destroying the village from within. This film is an epic. It’s long, dense, and incredibly rewarding. The atmosphere is incredibly thick, building a sense of unease and dread that never quite dissipates. Director Na Hong-jin masterfully blends elements of folk horror, supernatural thriller, and psychological horror into a truly unique and terrifying experience. The film plays with your expectations, constantly shifting perspectives and revealing new layers of mystery. The scares are not always conventional; they are often subtle, psychological, and deeply unsettling. You'll be on the edge of your seat, trying to piece together the puzzle alongside the protagonist. The performances are outstanding, capturing the desperation and terror of the villagers. The Wailing explores themes of faith, doubt, the nature of evil, and the fragility of human understanding when confronted with the inexplicable. It’s a film that invites interpretation and discussion, making it all the more compelling. If you’re up for a challenging, atmospheric, and profoundly disturbing horror experience that showcases the darker side of humanity and the supernatural, The Wailing is an absolute must-see. Its complexity and sheer terror make it a standout, proving that great horror transcends borders. It's the kind of film that burrows into your mind and stays there, a true testament to its power and artistry.

5. May the Devil Take You (2018)

Let's talk about May the Devil Take You, a film that channels the spirit of classic Indonesian horror with a modern, adrenaline-fueled twist. This movie is a fantastic ride from start to finish, perfect for anyone who loves a good demonic possession story with plenty of scares. The plot follows a young woman named Anya who, along with her stepsister, visits their estranged father who is gravely ill. They soon discover that his illness is not natural; he made a pact with the devil years ago to secure his fortune, and now the debt is coming due. As the demonic forces come to collect, Anya and her stepsister find themselves in a desperate fight for survival against a relentless evil. Director Timo Tjahjanto, a name synonymous with intense Indonesian horror, delivers a film that’s both thrilling and genuinely terrifying. The pacing is relentless, throwing you into the thick of the action and keeping you on the edge of your seat. The demonic entity is portrayed in a genuinely creepy way, and the practical effects used to bring its wrath to life are impressive and often quite gruesome. What makes May the Devil Take You stand out is its sheer energy and commitment to delivering scares. It doesn't hold back, offering a blend of supernatural horror, intense chase sequences, and moments of pure, unadulterated terror. The film successfully taps into the fear of a deal with the devil and the devastating consequences that follow. The performances are solid, with the lead actress carrying the weight of the supernatural threat convincingly. If you're looking for a fast-paced, high-octane horror flick that doesn't shy away from the dark side, this is it. May the Devil Take You is a testament to the vibrant and often brutal landscape of modern Indonesian horror, providing a satisfyingly scary experience that’s both fun and terrifying. It’s a film that reminds you why the genre is so captivating, offering a potent mix of folklore and modern terror that will keep you looking over your shoulder.

6. May the Devil Take You Too (2020)

Picking up where the first film left off, May the Devil Take You Too continues the wild ride of demonic pacts and relentless terror. If you enjoyed the first installment, you're in for another treat. This sequel ramps up the stakes, the gore, and the supernatural mayhem. The story follows Anya and her friends as they try to escape the clutches of a demonic cult that is pursuing them. Their only hope lies in finding a way to break the curse that has plagued Anya since the events of the first film. Director Timo Tjahjanto once again delivers a film that is packed with action, jump scares, and genuinely disturbing imagery. The sequel delves deeper into the lore of the demonic pacts and introduces new, terrifying threats. The creature designs are creative and unsettling, and the practical effects are used to great effect, leading to some truly gruesome and memorable moments. The film maintains the fast-paced, relentless energy of its predecessor, ensuring that there's rarely a dull moment. It’s a film that understands what makes a good horror sequel: more of everything you loved, but bigger and badder. The narrative weaves in elements of cult horror and ancient rituals, adding layers to the already terrifying premise. The characters face increasingly dire situations, and the sense of desperation is palpable. May the Devil Take You Too is a testament to the power of Indonesian horror to deliver visceral thrills and compelling supernatural narratives. It’s a movie that doesn't just rely on shock value; it builds a terrifying world and pushes its characters to their absolute limits. For fans of demonic horror, intense action, and a healthy dose of gore, this sequel is an absolute must-watch. It solidifies the franchise as a significant player in modern horror cinema, offering a satisfyingly terrifying experience that will leave you breathless.

7. Asih (2018)

Now, let's delve into the realm of vengeful spirits with Asih. This film taps into the very potent Indonesian folklore of the kuntilanak, a spectral woman often depicted with long hair and a distinctive laugh, and it does so with chilling effectiveness. The story revolves around Amelia, a young woman who recently lost her husband and is now raising her newborn son alone. Her life takes a dark turn when she decides to take in an orphan named Asih, unaware of the terrifying entity that lurks within the child's past. Asih is not just a troubled orphan; she is a conduit for a vengeful spirit, and her presence unleashes a torrent of supernatural terror upon Amelia and her baby. Director Rizal Mantovani crafts a film that is steeped in atmosphere and psychological dread. The film expertly uses sound design and visual cues to build suspense, making you feel the encroaching danger. The kuntilanak spirit is portrayed as genuinely frightening, a force of nature driven by pain and a thirst for revenge. Asih excels at creating a sense of unease that builds gradually, punctuated by well-executed jump scares and disturbing apparitions. It explores themes of motherhood, loss, and the darkness that can lie hidden beneath the surface. The film’s strength lies in its ability to tap into deep-seated cultural fears and translate them into a universally terrifying experience. The performances are solid, with the actress playing Asih conveying a haunting vulnerability and menace. If you appreciate horror that focuses on folklore, psychological tension, and a truly terrifying antagonist, Asih is a compelling choice. It’s a strong entry into the Indonesian horror canon, delivering scares that are both culturally rooted and universally unsettling. Prepare yourself for a haunting experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

8. DreadOut (2019)

Based on the popular Indonesian video game of the same name, DreadOut brings its unique brand of supernatural horror to the screen. If you're a fan of survival horror games or just enjoy a good ghost story with a modern twist, this film is definitely worth checking out. The story follows a group of high school students who, on a dare, decide to explore an abandoned building rumored to be haunted. They soon find themselves trapped in a terrifying dimension filled with malevolent spirits and dark forces. Led by Linda, the protagonist from the game, they must use their wits and any means necessary to survive and find a way back to their own reality. The film does a commendable job of translating the game's atmosphere and jump scares into a cinematic experience. The visual design of the spirits and the eerie environments are faithfully recreated, giving fans a familiar yet thrilling experience. Director Kimo Stamboel delivers a fast-paced and action-packed horror film that doesn't shy away from its video game origins. The film is filled with suspenseful sequences, creative creature encounters, and a sense of urgency as the characters battle for their lives. DreadOut explores themes of friendship, courage, and the consequences of disturbing the spiritual realm. The practical effects and CGI are used effectively to bring the monstrous entities to life, creating some truly memorable and frightening moments. If you're looking for a fun, engaging, and scary supernatural thriller that’s rooted in Indonesian mythology and popular gaming culture, DreadOut is a solid pick. It offers a thrilling adventure into the world of the undead, proving that video game adaptations can indeed deliver effective scares. Get ready for a wild ride filled with ghosts, ghouls, and a desperate fight for survival.

9. Queen of Spades: The Dark Rite (2018)

Venturing into the realm of cursed objects and ancient rituals, Queen of Spades: The Dark Rite offers a chilling take on a classic urban legend. This Indonesian horror film is based on the infamous