15 Indonesian Films 2026, There's a New Horror by Joko Anwar That Will Make You Curious

Kapanlagi.com - The year 2026 is predicted to be a festive year for the Indonesian film industry, with various genres ready to entertain viewers. From chilling horror to touching dramas, the film options are very diverse. One of the most anticipated is the latest work by Joko Anwar, a director known for his distinctive horror touch.

Filmmakers from the homeland have prepared a series of interesting films that will be released throughout the year, with some already having confirmed release dates in early January. Viewers will be presented with original stories and adaptations rich in local culture. Get ready to welcome a wave of quality entertainment from the nation's best talents.

Here is a summary of 15 Indonesian films scheduled for release in 2026, complete with brief synopses and their release dates.

1. Joy and Sorrow of Laughter: A Comedy that Drains Emotions

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This comedy-drama film tells the story of a young comedian named Tawa (Rachel Amanda) who gains fame by turning her childhood wounds and her father's shame into stand-up comedy material. As her career skyrockets, her father sinks deeper into despair, and their reunion opens up a space for reconciliation that is not easy. The film is scheduled to be released on January 8, 2026.

2. Children of Heaven: A Touching Classic Adaptation

This film is an adaptation of the classic Iranian film by Majid Majidi, directed by Hanung Bramantyo and produced by Manoj Punjabi under MD Pictures. The story centers on two siblings, Ali and Zahra, who live in poverty on the outskirts of Semarang. They struggle to get through their daily lives, and one day Zahra's shoes go missing, forcing them to take turns wearing one pair of shoes.

3. Carrying Clown: Spin-off of the Qodrat Cinematic Universe

Carrying Clown will be the result of the expansion of the Qodrat Cinematic Universe, a horror film that is a spin-off of Qodrat. Directed by Charles Gozali, the story takes the perspective of the antagonist, following the tale of two street artists who experience a brutal tragedy. This tragedy awakens an evil force rooted in rituals, folklore, and revenge.

4. Na Willa: The Colorful Tale of a Little Girl

instagram.com/nawillaofficial

This film is an adaptation of a novel of the same name by Reda Gaudiamo, becoming the latest project of Ryan Adriandhy as director and screenwriter. Set in Surabaya during the 1960s to 1970s, this film tells the everyday life of a colorful little girl named Na Willa, filled with family, curiosity, and wonder. Na Willa is scheduled to be released on Eid 2026.

5. Night of 3 Yasinan: Religious Horror Full of Mystery

This religious horror film tells the story of the Djoyodiredjo family, owners of a sugar factory in the 1980s, who are struck by tragedy. The mysterious death of one of the twin daughters, Sara, triggers a series of strange events as her twin sister, Samira, returns home to attend the yasinan. The ritual uncovers the dark secrets of the family. This film is scheduled to be released on January 8, 2026.

6. Alas Roban: Terror on the Legendary Route

The mystical terror on the legendary Alas Roban route is the focus of this horror film, following the story of a single mother named Sita and her daughter, Gendis. They experience a series of strange events while crossing the haunted route, and it is revealed that Gendis has become the target of Dewi Raras due to an ancient, forgotten ritual. Sita must confront the myths of Alas Roban to save her child's life. This film is scheduled to be released on January 15, 2026.

7. The Enemy in the Blanket: A Household Conflict Drama

This drama film tells the story of the household of Gadis and Dika, which was initially harmonious but turned full of conflict after Dika began an affair with Suzy, their neighbor. Suzy's kindness seems too perfect and her attention too excessive, making Gadis suspicious. This film highlights the dynamics of a fragile relationship, jealousy, and tested trust. The film is set to premiere on January 8, 2026.

8. Heavenly Fairy: An Inspiring Religious Romance

Produced by Max Pictures, this romantic comedy film features Rey Mbayang and Dinda Hauw. The story centers on Taufan, a controversial YouTuber, who falls in love with Nadia, the daughter of a cleric. Despite coming from very different worlds, Taufan works hard to gain approval and win Nadia's heart. The film is scheduled to be released on January 15, 2026.

9. Tomorrow Without Mother: AI Innovation in Family Drama

This drama film tells the story of Rama, who is not very close to his Father, and the situation becomes increasingly difficult when his Mother falls ill. In the midst of emotional emptiness, an innovation named i-BU appears, an AI designed to resemble his mother, bringing back the comfort that Rama longs for. The film is scheduled to be released on January 22, 2026.

10. Ghost in the Cell: A Joko Anwar Style Horror Comedy

This horror comedy film is the latest project from Come and See Pictures, directed by Joko Anwar and Tina Hasibuan. An intensive research process lasting six years, from 2018 to 2024, has been conducted for this film. Ghost in the Cell tells the story of four inmates who face mystical events in Labuan Angsana Prison. In a terrifying situation, they are forced to work together to uncover the truth behind the supernatural phenomena haunting their cell.

11. God, Do You Really Hear Me?: A Journey of Spiritual Resilience

This film directed by Jay Sukmo raises an inspiring story about a woman who finds strength and independence. The film tells the journey of Sarah as she strives to be resilient and rediscover the meaning of independence and peace in life after going through a tough phase. Emotional trials arise when she encounters her ex-husband and his new wife who are facing problems. The film is scheduled to be released on January 29, 2026.

12. The Housekeeper: Buto Ijo: Adaptation of a Modern Horror Tale

This horror film adapts the folktale of Timun Mas into a modern horror setting, focusing on Srini and her daughter who are terrorized as her sixth birthday approaches. The terror becomes more real when the figure of Buto Ijo begins to appear, not just to scare, but to claim an old promise. The film is scheduled to be released on January 15, 2026.

13. Sengkolo: The Disaster of One Suro: Mysterious Terror on the Sacred Night

instagram.com/sengkolo_film

This film tells the story of a village plagued by terror as the night of one Suro approaches, with strange occurrences affecting the residents, especially pregnant women. Ghostly apparitions and mysterious deaths provoke the anger of the villagers who feel their village is cursed. The film is scheduled to be released on January 22, 2026.

14. Kafir, Gerbang Sukma: Secrets of the Past that Haunt

Eight years after the tragic death of Herman due to black magic, Sri tries to rebuild her life with her daughter, Dina. However, their visit to Sri's parents' house becomes the beginning of disaster, as Sri's hidden past secrets now threaten her family. This film is scheduled to be released on January 29, 2026.

15. The Last Flight: A Scandal-Filled Drama

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This film tells the story of Captain Deva Angkasa, a handsome and charismatic pilot who often makes sweet promises to many flight attendants, including Tiara. Behind the luxury of the aviation world lies a scandal ready to destroy many lives. The film is scheduled to be released on January 15, 2026.

(kpl/ums)