Embark on a cinematic journey through the lush landscapes and mysterious islands of Indonesia. This curated list of films not only showcases the breathtaking beauty of this archipelago but also delves into the thrilling narratives that unfold amidst its exotic locales. From action-packed adventures to chilling horror tales, these films offer a unique blend of cultural richness and cinematic excitement, making them a must-watch for any film enthusiast looking for something beyond the ordinary.

Merantau (2009)
Description: A young martial artist from West Sumatra travels to Jakarta for his "merantau" (rite of passage), where he encounters danger and must use his skills to protect a young woman from human traffickers.
Fact: This film marks the directorial debut of Gareth Evans, who later directed "The Raid."


The Raid (2011)
Description: Set in the slums of Jakarta, this film follows an elite SWAT team as they raid a building controlled by a ruthless drug lord. While not directly on an island, the urban jungle setting captures the intensity of Indonesian locales.
Fact: The film was shot in just 25 days with a budget of only $


The Act of Killing (2012)
Description: This documentary explores the Indonesian genocide of 1965-66 through the eyes of the perpetrators, who reenact their killings in various cinematic styles, including on an island setting.
Fact: It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and has been praised for its unique approach to historical documentation.


Killers (2014)
Description: A group of strangers are forced to participate in a deadly game on an isolated island, where they must kill each other to survive.
Fact: The film uses the backdrop of an Indonesian island to create a tense, survivalist atmosphere.


Headshot (2016)
Description: An amnesiac man with extraordinary fighting skills washes up on an Indonesian island and must piece together his past while facing off against a criminal syndicate.
Fact: The film features Iko Uwais, who also starred in "The Raid," showcasing his martial arts prowess.


Satan's Slaves (2017)
Description: A family moves into an old house on an island, where they are haunted by supernatural forces, leading to a chilling tale of horror and survival.
Fact: This is a remake of a 1980 Indonesian horror classic, updated with modern special effects.


The Seen and Unseen (2017)
Description: While not a thriller, this film explores the mystical and unseen aspects of life on Bali, providing a unique cultural insight into Indonesian island life.
Fact: It won the Grand Prix at the 2018 Berlin International Film Festival's Generation Kplus section.


The Night Comes for Us (2018)
Description: A former Triad enforcer on the run takes refuge on an Indonesian island, leading to a brutal showdown with his former gang.
Fact: This film is known for its intense action sequences and has been compared to "John Wick" for its style and violence.


The Jungle (2013)
Description: A group of friends venture into the jungles of Sumatra for an adventure, only to find themselves in a fight for survival against nature and local dangers.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life stories of travelers getting lost in Indonesian jungles.


Macabre (2009)
Description: A group of friends visit a secluded island home, where they encounter a family with dark secrets, leading to a night of terror.
Fact: It was Indonesia's first modern horror film to receive international distribution.
