Movie Review: Petaka Gunung Gede

Petaka Gunung Gede sets itself up as a horror movie but delivers more of a dramatic tale with mild horror elements. While the film revolves around supernatural terror, its core focus is the deep bond between best friends Maya and Ita. The question at the heart of the movie isn’t just about the myth of the mountain but about the strength of their friendship and whether Ita’s suffering is truly supernatural or caused by something else.

Storyline Overview

The plot follows Maya and Ita as they embark on a climb up Mount Gede, only for Ita to face terrifying consequences after allegedly breaking a myth. While everyone believes Ita’s actions triggered supernatural wrath, Maya refuses to accept it at face value and fights to uncover the truth. The story is straightforward, lacking major twists or surprises, which is typical of many Indonesian horror films. It’s more of a character-driven drama with horror as a backdrop rather than a full-fledged horror experience.

Character Highlights

One of the strongest aspects of Petaka Gunung Gede is its cast. Indonesian films often shine in this department, and this movie is no exception. The actors deliver compelling performances that make the emotional stakes feel real. Fear, sadness, and anger are conveyed powerfully, immersing the audience in the story. The lead performances ensure that even when the plot falters, the emotional depth remains strong.

Horror Elements & Execution

If you go into this film expecting a horror-packed experience, you might be disappointed. The ghost barely appears, and when it does, the scares are effective but infrequent. The movie leans more on eerie atmosphere and psychological tension rather than full-blown horror. Some scenes are overexaggerated, which at times diminishes the emotional authenticity of the story.

Final Thoughts

While the performances are strong, Petaka Gunung Gede ultimately lacks the impact of a true horror movie. The drama aspect overshadows the scares, making it feel more like a suspenseful friendship tale rather than a supernatural thriller. With the current influx of Indonesian horror films, one has to wonder if the genre is becoming oversaturated with predictable storytelling.

Rating: 4/10

A well-acted but underwhelming horror film that fails to deliver the thrills it promises.