Movie Review: Pembantaian Dukun Santet

I always appreciate it when filmmakers try to turn real-life events into fiction. It gives a sense of realism to the story and a light touch on something that’s usually very serious. But in the case of Pembantaian Dukun Santet, I have to say, it feels a little tasteless.

The movie is said to be inspired by an actual incident that took place in Indonesia back in the 90s, where several religious leaders were mysteriously killed by so-called “ninjas.” From what I read, that event was already terrifying and deeply sensitive. But this movie decided to twist the narrative, focusing instead on the massacre of dukun (shamans). It’s a bold direction, sure but one that didn’t quite land for me.

The story felt flat, the plot was weak, and even though there were moments of good gore (which horror fans might appreciate), that was pretty much all it had going for it. I didn’t feel any emotional pull or deeper meaning behind the violence, just blood for the sake of blood.

I’m giving Pembantaian Dukun Santet a 2/10. It had potential, but the execution left much to be desired.