My stepmother has always had an uncanny talent for indulging in horror films. Every time I visit, there’s a spine-chilling flick flickering on the screen, filling the house with an eerie glow. Last weekend, curiosity got the better of me and I finally sank into the sofa beside her, ready to experience the thrills and bond over a few screams.
I know I’ve said this before, but it’s worth highlighting again. Indonesia’s horror scene has truly gained traction in recent years, and Do You See What I See, now available on Netflix, is yet another spine-tingling addition to the genre.
Set against the backdrop of 1996, this film brilliantly interlaces traditional horror elements with psychological undertones, producing a truly eerie cinematic experience. From its unsettling practical effects to the solid performances by its cast, this Indonesian horror offers a fresh take on the supernatural.
Yet, beyond the jump scares, it explores into the psychological torment of a young woman, all while maintaining a creeping sense of dread.
A HAUNTING SETTING
The film follows Mawar (played by Diandra Agatha), a student living in a boarding house.
Although the location is deliberately left vague, it’s clear that this house is far from the hustle and bustle of Jakarta, giving it an isolated and eerie atmosphere. The year is 1996, and the limitations of that era – no smartphones, no modern distractions – allow for the tension to build slowly and ominously.
Mawar’s isolation had been palpable. Often lost in her thoughts, she would confide in her housemate and closest friend, Vey (played by Shenina Cinnamon), pouring out her heart about the aching solitude she felt. On her birthday, she wished for someone to share her life with, someone who could bring light to the darker corners of her world.
That wish seemed to come true when Restu entered her life. Vey, delighted to see her friend so happy, shared in Mawar’s joy, eagerly listening to stories about this mysterious new boyfriend.
Yet, as Restu’s “presence” grew, so did a creeping sense of dread. Strange things began happening within the walls of their boarding house – unexplainable, eerie events that filled the air with a sense of unease. Lights flickered, unsettling noises echoed in the night, prank calls and an overwhelming sense of something sinister loomed over them all.
We are drawn into the story when Mawar’s housemates start to notice something strange: she’s frequently absent, disappearing without explanation. It wasn’t long before Vey’s initial excitement gave way to suspicion. The disturbing occurrences became impossible to ignore, and every sign seemed to point towards Restu. Vey dug deeper into the mystery, uncovering the chilling truth: Mawar’s dream partner was far from human.
Determined to uncover the truth, Vey seeks the help of a psychic named Lina (portrayed by Sarah Felicia). This eventually prompts Vey to suggest that Mawar introduce Restu to the group. This is where the film truly plunges into supernatural horror territory and the mystery behind Restu is further uncovered.
MUNDANE MEETS MACABRE
The cinematography in this film masterfully enhances its chilling atmosphere, blending eerie lighting with unsettling angles that keep viewers on edge.
The use of dim, flickering lights and shadowy corners creates a claustrophobic sense of dread, making the boarding house feel like a character in its own right.
Each shot lingers with precise timing, expertly building suspense, while the camera captures scenes from unexpected angles, intensifying the psychological tension.
The film’s colour grading lends it a distinct vintage aesthetic, adding to its eerie atmosphere and making it surprisingly easy on the eyes. The contrast between the mundane and the supernatural is starkly drawn, with clever use of muted colours, which adds to the haunting, dreamlike quality of the film. Diandra’s performance was nothing short of flawless. Her striking facial features perfectly conveyed the descent into madness, with her sharp, expressive eyes capturing the torment of a woman unravelling. A new horror queen in the making? I can absolutely see her rising to that title.
Each actor brings a depth and authenticity to their roles that resonates long after the credits roll. The supporting cast enhances the eerie atmosphere, their nuanced portrayals crafting a chilling mosaic of fear and suspense that grips viewers tightly.
Together, they create a chilling synergy that immerses the audience in the film’s supernatural world, making it a standout entry in Indonesia’s burgeoning horror genre.
A CHILLING CONCLUSION
Do You See What I See may be a horror film on the surface, but it offers much more beneath. The tale of Mawar is one of tragedy, mental illness, and the perils of dark magic.
Its haunting conclusion serves as a stark reminder that some doors, once opened, can never be closed.
The film’s slow build and eerie atmosphere keep the audience on edge, while its psychological depth gives it a lasting impact.
For fans of horror, especially those intrigued by Southeast Asian folklore, Do You See What I See is a must-watch. The combination of practical effects, suspenseful storytelling, and haunting performances makes it stand out as one of the better horror offerings from Indonesia in recent years.
Admittedly, while my stepmother was cowering behind cushions and shrieking at every jump scare, my eyes remained glued to the screen, absorbing every moment of the horror cinematic magic. I’d give the show a solid seven out of 10 for its scare factor though. – Izah Azahari
