Exploring the Depths of Fear: Indonesian Filmmaker Adriyanto Dewo's 'Evil Underground' at JAFF Future Project
Indonesian filmmaker Adriyanto Dewo's latest project, "Evil Underground," has been chosen for the JAFF Future Project, focusing on estranged sisters trapped in a mall basement. The film, directed by Dewo and produced by Perlita Desiani and Tina Arwin of Relate Films, is one of the ten Asia-Pacific selections at this year's JAFF Market in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. "Evil Underground" follows a group of teenagers who embark on a chilling adventure in an old trade center, leading to a series of eerie events in the mall's lowest basement.
The narrative revolves around sisters Dian and Mirna, who are still dealing with the aftermath of their father's passing. As they participate in a viral ritual in the mall's basement, they are confronted with a series of terrifying occurrences that challenge their perceptions of reality. The film delves into themes of guilt, grief, and the complexities of familial relationships, creating a suspenseful and psychological horror experience for the audience.
Director Dewo drew inspiration from personal experiences, including a moment of claustrophobia in a mall parking lot and observing the contrasting reactions of siblings to grief. These elements, combined with a desire to explore youth anxiety and societal pressures, culminated in the creation of "Evil Underground." The film aims to use horror as a medium to address contemporary issues faced by young people, offering a unique perspective on hidden pain and its consequences.
The producers of the film highlight its ability to merge social commentary with a captivating horror narrative, resonating with the emotional landscape of today's youth. They seek to establish partnerships at JAFF Market to enhance the project's global presence and introduce a new wave of Indonesian horror that addresses relevant social issues within a genre framework. By connecting with potential collaborators and industry professionals, the team hopes to elevate "Evil Underground" to a broader audience and solidify its impact in the international film market.
Dewo's previous works, including award-winning films like "Tabula Rasa" and "Homecoming," showcase his talent for storytelling and genre exploration. With a remake of the Indonesian horror classic "Lukisan Berlumur Darah" in the pipeline, Dewo continues to push boundaries in the horror genre and expand his creative horizons. The development of "Evil Underground" at JAFF Future Project signifies a significant step towards bringing the film to fruition and engaging with a global audience through its innovative storytelling and thematic depth.