Indonesian Horror Film ‘Munafik: Melawan Iblis’ Set for September 3 Release

JAKARTA — Indonesian horror film Munafik: Melawan Iblis is scheduled to open in cinemas across Indonesia on Sept. 3, combining supernatural horror with a story about grief, trauma and coming to terms with loss.

Produced by Unlimited Production and Skop Productions, the film is directed by Guntur Soeharjanto and produced by Oswin Bonifanz. Actor Arya Saloka plays Ustaz Adam, a religious healer whose life changes after a car accident kills his wife, Aini, played by Widi Dwinanda.

The accident occurs as Adam is returning home after helping a family deal with a demonic disturbance. Deeply affected by his wife's death, Adam stops performing rukiah, an Islamic spiritual healing practice, and withdraws into a life marked by grief.

His decision is challenged when Anwar, played by Dimas Aditya, asks him to help Fitri, a nurse played by Acha Septriasa. Fitri is the daughter of Haji Mansur, played by Donny Damara, a respected figure in the village where Adam lives.

Adam initially refuses but eventually agrees after recalling a message from his late wife. His attempt to help Fitri, however, leads him to a dark secret behind the disturbances surrounding her.

The film uses possession and rukiah as elements of its horror narrative while placing greater emphasis on the psychological experiences of its characters, including grief and unresolved trauma.

Producer Oswin Bonifanz said the film seeks to combine a supernatural horror story with a drama about loss and the process of dealing with bereavement.

The film has also held a pre-release roadshow, with organizers reporting sold-out screenings ahead of its nationwide theatrical release.

For Saloka, playing Adam also provided an opportunity to improve his recitation of Quranic verses, which are part of the character's role as a religious healer.

Septriasa described Fitri as a physically and emotionally demanding character. Fitri is portrayed as a woman struggling with grief and unable to fully accept the circumstances surrounding her loss.

The role marks another challenging performance for Septriasa, who has spent two decades working in Indonesia's film industry.

Munafik: Melawan Iblis is due to begin its nationwide theatrical run in Indonesia on Sept. 3, 2026. (Aiko)