“Thaghut” is a 2024 Indonesian horror film directed by Bobby Prasetyo, featuring a cast that includes Yasmin Napper, Arbani Yasiz, and Ria Ricis. The narrative centers on Ainun, a young woman who uncovers that her biological father, Abah Mulya, was a spiritual teacher propagating heretical teachings that deviate from traditional religious practices. This revelation propels Ainun into a journey fraught with spiritual and moral dilemmas, as she grapples with the challenge of steering her father’s followers back to the righteous path.

Plot Overview

The film introduces Ainun, portrayed by Yasmin Napper, a devout student deeply rooted in her faith. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers that Abah Mulya, a renowned spiritual healer in the village of Bumi Suwung, is her biological father. Abah Mulya, depicted by Whani Darmawan, is celebrated for his supernatural abilities and has amassed a significant following. However, his teachings are unorthodox, leading his disciples away from traditional religious practices.

Upon Abah Mulya’s sudden and mysterious death, Ainun, accompanied by her friends Bagas (Arbani Yasiz) and Rini (Ria Ricis), travels to Bumi Suwung to attend his funeral. There, she is confronted with her father’s controversial legacy and is unexpectedly named as his successor, tasked with perpetuating his heterodox teachings. This position places Ainun at a crossroads, as she must choose between honoring her father’s last wish and adhering to her own religious convictions.

Themes and Symbolism

“Thaghut” delves into themes of faith, heresy, and the internal conflict between familial loyalty and personal beliefs. The term “Thaghut” itself refers to entities that transgress the bounds of righteousness, symbolizing the deviation from the true path that Ainun perceives in her father’s teachings. The film explores the tension between traditional religious practices and syncretic spiritual movements, highlighting the challenges individuals face when confronting divergent belief systems within their own families.

Controversies and Reception

Prior to its release, “Thaghut” sparked significant controversy. Initially titled “Kiblat,” the film faced backlash for allegedly disrespecting Islamic symbols, leading to a title change. Despite these adjustments, the film continued to attract criticism, notably from a group known as the White Shamans. They issued a summons to the production house, objecting to the film’s portrayal of shamans and spiritual healers in a negative light. Dwi Lestari, representing the group, argued that the film unjustly generalized all shamanic practices as malevolent, disregarding the positive roles that many shamans play in their communities.

Brilio

Despite the controversies, “Thaghut” garnered attention upon its release. The film holds an IMDb rating of 6.0/10, based on 184 user ratings, reflecting a mixed reception from audiences.

IMDb Critics have noted the film’s atmospheric tension and effective use of horror elements, though some have pointed out areas where the narrative could have been more cohesive.

Cinematography and Direction

Director Bobby Prasetyo employs a visual style that accentuates the film’s eerie and suspenseful atmosphere. The cinematography captures the mystique of Bumi Suwung, with its dense forests and secluded settings, enhancing the sense of isolation and foreboding that permeates the narrative. The use of dim lighting and tight framing intensifies the claustrophobic feel, mirroring Ainun’s internal turmoil as she navigates her father’s enigmatic world.

Performances

Yasmin Napper delivers a compelling performance as Ainun, effectively portraying her character’s vulnerability and determination. Arbani Yasiz and Ria Ricis provide strong support as Bagas and Rini, respectively, with Ricis injecting moments of levity that balance the film’s darker themes. Whani Darmawan’s portrayal of Abah Mulya exudes a charismatic yet unsettling presence, embodying the duality of a revered spiritual leader whose practices are shrouded in controversy.

Cultural Context

“Thaghut” offers a commentary on the complex landscape of spiritual practices in Indonesia, a nation characterized by its rich tapestry of religious and cultural traditions. The film sheds light on the friction between orthodox religious institutions and local spiritual customs, prompting discussions about the nature of faith, authority, and the interpretation of religious teachings. By presenting a protagonist caught between these conflicting worlds, the film encourages viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and the societal structures that influence them.

Conclusion

“Thaghut” stands as a provocative addition to Indonesian horror cinema, intertwining elements of supernatural suspense with profound questions about faith and morality. Through its exploration of personal and communal conflicts, the film challenges audiences to consider the boundaries of religious adherence and the complexities inherent in spiritual leadership. While it has incited debate and faced criticism, “Thaghut” succeeds in sparking meaningful conversations about the interplay between tradition and modernity in contemporary society.