Makmum is a 2019 Indonesian supernatural horror film about a mysterious figure that haunts a students’ dormitory.
Directed by Hadrah Daeng Ratu from a screenplay written by Alim Sudio and Vidya Talisa Ariestya, based on Riza Pahlevi’s storyline, the Dee Company-Blue Water Films production stars Titi Kamal, Ali Syakieb, Tissa Biani Azzahra, Adilla Fitri and Bianca Hello.
Plot:
A mysterious figure referred to as Makmum (follower) by the residents of a students’ dormitory is causing an increased amount of paranormal disturbances. At the same time, Rini settles back in the dormitory to fulfil the request of Mrs Kinanti whose health continues to decline.
Rosa, the new leader of the dormitory, does not respond to the fears of three students: Nurul, Nisa, and Putri who are allowed to live in the dormitory during the holidays, because of their poor grades. Meanwhile, Putri becomes possessed.
Rini knows that something is wrong in the dormitory. She tries to help the students and uncover the mystery. She does not realise that her life is in danger…
Reviews:
“With characters that fail to be well developed, there is not much that the cast of this film can do to liven up their roles […] Biani, Hello, and Fitri steal attention more often thanks to the trio’s ability to develop the supporting characters given to them. Makmum is not a horror that is worth remembering its existence for a long time. It should probably be forgotten as soon as the film is over.” Amir at the Movies [translated from Indonesian]
“Makmum, which had a great chance of success, actually stumbles when it enters the middle and even gets worse when it reaches the climax. If only the narrative had stuck to the “mammum ghost” mythology and then chosen to discuss the issue of steadfast faith in worshipping God – which is relevant to the situation of today’s society – then it is not impossible that the film would have ended more beautifully. Too bad.” 2.5 out of 5, Cine Tariz [translated from Indonesian]
“The character of Rini played by Titi Kamal doesn’t feel right, considering that Titi often acts in comedy films and has a cheerful character. Rini’s background in having the ability to communicate with invisible creatures is not explained enough, so it is a bit strange, since when did she have this ability? Despite its shortcomings, this film could be a model for short-to-length film adaptations.” 60% Montase Film
“In development, it could have been one of three; tragic friendship drama, fun horror gore, or social commentary on the position of women as leaders (in Islam, women are not allowed to be imams except for female congregations). But instead, it is directed to be a generic horror that sells tropes. This film has absolutely no idea.” My Dirt Sheet [translated from Indonesian]
YouTube reviews:
Trailer:
Cast and characters:
Titi Kamal … Rini
Ali Syakieb … Ustaz Ganda
Tissa Biani Azzahra … Nurul
Adilla Fitri … Putri
Bianca Hello … Nisa
Jajang C. Noer … Kinanti
Reni Yuliana … Rosa
Arief Didu … Slamet
Misha Jeter … Ningsih
Technical details:
1 hour 35 minutes
