Levitating
The brief
Wregas Bhanuteja turns Indonesian trance culture into something that feels part spiritual awakening, part economic anxiety nightmare. The film moves with the hypnotic rhythm of its ritual scenes, but Angga Yunanda's desperate energy as Bayu keeps you tethered to the very real stakes of his financial crisis. It's surprisingly funny in dark moments, especially when mystical possession meets the mundane reality of rent collection. Perfect for anyone who loved the cultural specificity of Minari or the way The Wailing made folklore feel immediate and personal.
The verdict
If you're drawn to culturally specific films that blend spiritual folklore with contemporary economic struggles, this hypnotic Indonesian drama delivers both mystical rituals and surprisingly dark humor. If you prefer faster-paced narratives or aren't interested in exploring unfamiliar cultural practices, the nearly two-hour runtime and trance-like rhythm will test your patience.
Watch with
- 👤 Solo viewers who appreciate cultural cinema
- 👥 Friends interested in Indonesian spirituality
- ⚠️ Those uncomfortable with possession themes
Heads up
- Spiritual possession and trance sequences (frequent)
- Economic anxiety and eviction themes (moderate)
- Ritualistic spiritual practices (moderate)
Credits
- Director
- Wregas Bhanuteja
- Cast
- Angga Yunanda, Maudy Ayunda, Anggun, Chicco Kurniawan, Bryan Domani, Indra Birowo, Ganindra Bimo
Official synopsis
In a town where pleasure equals being possessed by spiritual beings, Bayu aspires to be the shaman of a trance party so he can fundraise enough money to prevent an impending eviction.
The Double
Make a night of it
Pair this with Tumbal Proyek (2026)
Both Indonesian films explore supernatural possession within community financial pressures.
