The Night of Kliwon Friday
The Night of Kliwon Friday

Movie spotlight

The Night of Kliwon Friday

1986
Movie
88 min
Indonesian

Ayu Sutrisna, a novelist, is suffering from a specific phobia that makes her hands shake and cold sweat to break out. Her boyfriend, Anton, suggests a more laid-back atmosphere. So she takes a retreat in an old house owned by Anton’s father. Then two guards of the house die in a horrible way when they try to rape her, seemingly killed by demons. Finally, Anton’s father admits that in the past, his wife gave birth to a baby one Friday night, and was killed.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Director: Imam TantowiGenres: Horror, Mystery

Plot Summary

A young woman named Nyi Ronggeng is haunted by a vengeful spirit after she is forced into a life of prostitution. The spirit, linked to a curse from a past tragedy, targets those involved in her exploitation. As the terrifying events escalate, a detective attempts to uncover the truth behind the supernatural occurrences and break the cycle of violence.

Critical Reception

This Indonesian horror film is considered a cult classic, praised for its atmospheric tension and the iconic performance of its lead actress, Suzzanna. While not widely reviewed by major international critics, it holds a significant place in Southeast Asian genre cinema for its blend of traditional horror elements and social commentary.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its effective jump scares and creepy atmosphere.

  • Suzzanna's performance is a standout, embodying the horror and tragedy of her character.

  • The film's blend of supernatural elements and social commentary is thought-provoking.

Google audience: Audience reception is primarily positive, with viewers appreciating the film's suspenseful narrative and its vintage horror aesthetic. Many fans highlight Suzzanna's captivating portrayal as a key reason for the film's enduring appeal.

Fun Fact

The film is part of a subgenre of Indonesian horror that often incorporated supernatural elements tied to local folklore and mysticism, with Suzzanna becoming the undisputed 'Queen of Indonesian Horror' for her numerous roles in such films.

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