Horror continues to reign supreme at the box office, including across the globe in Indonesia. The newly released horror-comedy Agak Laen has just become the second-highest-grossing Indonesian film of all time. Deadline is reporting that the film has seen a whopping “7.35 million admissions” since its February 1st debut. The film follows 2022’s KKN di Desa Penari, which is currently in the number-one spot with an impressive 10.62 million “admissions.” With it just being released, Agak Lean may very well take the number-one spot soon.
A Major Hit:
Agak Laen, directed by Muhadkly Acho, stars Bene Dion Rajagukguk, Oki Rengga, Indra Jegel, Boris Bokir, and Tissa Biani Azzahra. It follows a group of individuals dealing with the aftermath of an old man’s death at a failing haunted house ride. The operators, in a bizarre twist, bury the body on-site, unknowingly transforming it into a popular attraction.
Standing Out from the Crowd:
While horror films often perform well in Indonesia, producer Ernest Prakasa attributes Agak Laen‘s success to its unique blend of genres. “We offered something quite different to the audience,” he explained to Deadline. “Laughter releases tension, and when you can enjoy a theater full of people laughing together, that’s a very relieving cinematic experience.”
A Reflection of the Times:
Prakasa also suggests that the film’s timing played a role in its popularity. “Because of current political tension,” he says, “it has created a demand for something that is entertaining.” Agak Laen‘s comedic elements may provide a welcome escape for audiences seeking a break from the seriousness of current events.
Horror’s Continued Dominance:
Agak Laen’s impressive box office performance adds to the growing evidence of horror’s continued dominance in the global film industry. Its success demonstrates the genre’s ability to not only terrify audiences but also offer moments of humor and release, solidifying its position as a box office powerhouse.
A US release date has yet to be announced, but don’t be surprised if it will be soon. We’ll keep you posted.
