Horror cinema has long been a gateway into the supernatural and the unknown, with each culture contributing its own unique tales of terror. Dancing Village: The Curse Begins (2024) is Indonesia’s latest addition to its horror legacy, drawing inspiration from deep-rooted folklore and traditional superstitions. Directed by Kimo Stamboel, the film delves into a world where myths and reality blur, creating an unsettling cinematic experience. This editorial explores the film’s storyline, strengths, weaknesses, and its place in the global horror landscape.
In This Article:
Plot Overview: A Journey into Darkness
At the heart of Dancing Village: The Curse Begins is the character of Mila (played by Maudy Effrosina), a young woman returning to her ancestral village with the intent of returning a mystical bracelet. However, her visit takes a dark turn when she encounters Badarawuhi (Aulia Sarah), a mythical entity tied to the village’s supernatural history. As Mila uncovers layers of hidden secrets, she realizes that the village is plagued by an ancient curse—one that has haunted generations. The film gradually unveils the mystery, keeping the audience engaged with an eerie atmosphere, unsettling visuals, and slow-burning suspense.
Cultural Significance: Indonesian Folklore in Cinema
Indonesia’s horror genre has often drawn from its rich folklore, much like Japan’s Ringu (1998) or Thailand’s Shutter (2004). The legend of Badarawuhi, a mystical and dangerous spirit, has been passed down through generations, and this film brings it to life in a contemporary setting. The use of dance—a traditional Indonesian art form—adds a unique cultural touch to the horror, making it stand out from Western supernatural thrillers.
Films like Satan’s Slaves (2017) and Impetigore (2019) have previously showcased the eerie beauty of Indonesian horror, and Dancing Village: The Curse Begins follows suit by weaving ancient beliefs into a modern narrative. By doing so, the movie introduces global audiences to Indonesia’s lesser-known myths while staying true to its roots.
Performances: Strengths and Shortcomings
One of the highlights of the film is Aulia Sarah’s portrayal of Badarawuhi. She embodies the character with an unsettling presence, her expressions and body language adding layers of terror to the supernatural entity. Maudy Effrosina as Mila delivers a commendable performance, capturing the fear and confusion of a woman trapped in a village where reality and the paranormal collide.
However, some critics argue that the supporting cast, including Jourdy Pranata as Yuda, could have been developed further. While the performances are largely competent, a deeper emotional connection between the characters would have enhanced the film’s impact.
Cinematography and Sound Design: Crafting Fear through Visuals
A horror film’s success often hinges on its ability to create an immersive atmosphere, and Dancing Village: The Curse Begins excels in this regard. The cinematography, handled by Batara Goempar, makes excellent use of shadow and light to heighten suspense. The village’s misty landscapes, dimly lit interiors, and sudden shifts between vibrant dance sequences and eerie stillness contribute to a feeling of unease.
The sound design plays an equally crucial role in amplifying fear. Traditional Indonesian instruments create a haunting background score, blending seamlessly with eerie whispers and distant chants. The film does not rely on excessive jump scares; instead, it builds tension through lingering silences and an ominous soundtrack, ensuring that the horror lingers even after the screen fades to black.
Strengths of the Film
- Deep-rooted Folklore: The story is based on traditional Indonesian myths, making it culturally rich and unique.
- Strong Atmosphere: The use of cinematography and sound creates an immersive, spine-chilling experience.
- Aulia Sarah’s Performance: The portrayal of Badarawuhi is both terrifying and mesmerizing.
- Blend of Dance and Horror: The incorporation of traditional dance into the horror narrative adds a fresh element to the genre.
Weaknesses of the Film
- Slow Pacing: Some viewers may find the buildup too slow, especially in the first half.
- Underdeveloped Characters: The supporting cast could have been given more depth to enhance emotional engagement.
- Predictable Tropes: While rooted in folklore, certain horror elements feel familiar and overused.
Comparisons with Other Horror Films
When compared to Satan’s Slaves (2017), which is often regarded as one of the best Indonesian horror films, Dancing Village: The Curse Begins takes a more folklore-driven approach. Where Satan’s Slaves focused on family horror and atmospheric dread, Dancing Village leans more into supernatural mythology and ritualistic terror.
Internationally, it can be compared to The Wailing (2016), a South Korean horror film that also explores curses and supernatural entities deeply embedded in cultural history. While The Wailing offers a more complex and layered narrative, Dancing Village captures a similar sense of isolation and inevitable doom.
Critical Reception: A Mixed Bag
Positive Reviews:
- “A chilling and atmospheric horror film that keeps you on edge.” – HorrorScreams (4/5 stars)
- “Exceptional cinematography and sound design make it an immersive experience.” – CinemaDaily (4/5 stars)
- “Aulia Sarah shines as the sinister Badarawuhi.” – FilmFrenzy (4/5 stars)
Negative Reviews:
- “Slow pacing and predictable story weaken the overall impact.” – TheCinemaSnob (2/5 stars)
- “Some performances lack depth, making it hard to stay invested.” – FilmCritic (2/5 stars)
- “Relies too heavily on horror clichés without offering something new.” – HorrorHound (2/5 stars)
Final Verdict: Is It Worth Watching?
Dancing Village: The Curse Begins offers a unique blend of folklore and horror, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of supernatural cinema. While it has its flaws—primarily in pacing and character development—it succeeds in crafting an eerie atmosphere that stays with the viewer. The film is a testament to Indonesia’s growing influence in the global horror scene, proving that traditional myths can be as terrifying as any Hollywood blockbuster.
If you’re a fan of slow-burn horror films that emphasize atmosphere over gore, this film deserves a spot on your watchlist.
Where to Watch
- IMDb: Dancing Village: The Curse Begins
- Rotten Tomatoes: Dancing Village: The Curse Begins
- Prime Video: Dancing Village: The Curse Begins
- Wikipedia: Dancing Village: The Curse Begins
- BookMyShow: Dancing Village: The Curse Begins
Moving Forward
Indonesia continues to make waves in the horror genre, and Dancing Village: The Curse Begins is another step forward. While it may not reach the heights of some of its predecessors, its deep cultural roots and immersive atmosphere make it a noteworthy entry. For those who appreciate folklore-based horror, this film is a must-watch.
By – Nikita
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