On October 3, 2026, PERWIRA will host the Indonesian Horror Film Festival, featuring screenings of five Indonesian horror films at the RMIT Capitol in Melbourne. What is the purpose of this festival, and how did the curator select the films to be screened?
Intan Kieflie is an Indonesian film producer, filmmaker, distributor, and former actress currently based in Melbourne.
Her new film, The Black Ritual: The Widow Demon ( Ritual Gaib Nyai Randsura)—co-directed with her husband, Stuart Simpson is one of the five films selected for the festival.
In her interview with SBS Indonesian, Intan who serves as the distributor and curator for the films being screened, The 3rd Night of The Death (Malam 3 Yasinan); Kuyank; The Lost Soul (Sukma); and The Raid – Remastered in 4K noted the enthusiasm international film lovers have for Indonesian horror movies. She believes that Indonesian horror films possess a distinctive character.
The five horror films featured in this Melbourne festival reflect this, as each offers a unique perspective infused with elements of Indonesian history, tradition, and culture, alongside the country's inherent beauty. Furthermore, the films showcase talented actors who have gained international recognition, such as the cast of The Raid. Intan discussed these aspects and more during her interview.
Her own film, The Black Ritual held its gala premiere in Indonesia on September 17, followed by its Australian gala premiere on October 3 at RMIT Capitol, Melbourne.
