Rumah Kentang: The Beginning is an Indonesian horror film that brings to life a well-known urban legend with a modern cinematic approach. Directed by Rizal Mantovani, the film attempts to revive the eerie tale of the "Potato House" with a compelling narrative and atmospheric horror elements. Starring Luna Maya and Christian Sugiono, the film offers a chilling experience, especially for horror fans who enjoy stories rooted in Indonesian folklore.
From the very beginning, the film successfully establishes a tense and eerie atmosphere. The use of dim lighting, unsettling background music, and detailed production design contribute to maintaining a sense of dread throughout the story. Rizal Mantovani's direction ensures that the horror elements are well-executed, even though some jump scares are predictable for seasoned horror enthusiasts.
The performances of the lead actors add significant value to the film. Luna Maya delivers a convincing portrayal of a character trapped in a terrifying situation, while Christian Sugiono complements her role with a solid performance, balancing logic and fear in the face of supernatural events. Their on-screen chemistry makes the story more engaging and helps viewers connect with their struggles.
Despite its strong technical execution, the film does have some weaknesses in its storytelling. The plot follows a typical horror formula, making it somewhat predictable. Some of the twists lack the element of surprise, which might make the experience less thrilling for viewers familiar with horror tropes. However, the film still manages to maintain suspense and deliver an entertaining horror experience.
The visual effects in Rumah Kentang: The Beginning are quite impressive for an Indonesian horror movie. The depiction of supernatural entities and the eerie ambiance of the haunted house are well-crafted and realistic. The sound design also enhances the suspense, although it sometimes feels slightly overdone in certain scenes.
Overall, Rumah Kentang: The Beginning is a solid horror film with a well-built atmosphere and commendable performances. While it lacks originality in its storyline, it still provides an engaging horror experience, particularly for those interested in Indonesian ghost stories. Considering its strengths and minor shortcomings, I give this film a 7/10 rating.
