Inspired by a True Story, 'PETAKA GUNUNG WELIRANG' Raises Mystical Terror in Alas Lali Jiwo

Kapanlagi.com - The film PETAKA GUNUNG WELIRANG will be showing in Indonesian cinemas starting July 2, 2026, featuring a horror story of a climbing experience inspired by real events on Mount Welirang, East Java. This film, directed by Indra Gunawan, is produced by Chand Parwez Servia, with the script written by Upi based on the story experienced by Maya Azka. The story follows five friends who experience supernatural terror while climbing on the eve of Malam 1 Suro.

The idea for the story originated from Maya Azka's experience as an avid mountain climber and researcher in the Alas Lali Jiwo area of Mount Welirang. After conducting research, she claimed to have experienced a series of dreams that she felt were beyond reason. This experience was then transformed into a story that eventually caught the attention of Chand Parwez Servia, leading to its development into a film. Maya also refers to this work as a tribute to climbers who never returned, as well as a prayer and remembrance for their families.

1. The Haunting Terror at Alas Lali Jiwo

The Story of Five Friends Climbing Gunung Welirang (Credit: KapanLagi/Aulia Wardah)

THE DISASTER OF GUNUNG WELIRANG tells the story of five friends, Satria, Naya, Arga, Noval, and Tita, who climb Gunung Welirang coinciding with the Night of 1 Suro. The climb, which initially went smoothly, turns into a chilling experience when they enter Alas Lali Jiwo and encounter various supernatural events.

This film presents various mystical elements, such as the appearance of the guardian entity of the mystical palace of Gunung Welirang along with its dancers, mysterious gamelan sounds, and the difference in dimensions that makes it difficult for the climbers to find their way home. In addition to showcasing horror terror, the story also depicts the struggle of the characters to help each other and survive amidst the threatening situation.

2. Uplifting the Values of Friendship and Belief

'DISASTER OF MOUNT WELIRANG' Highlights the Value of Friendship (Credit: KapanLagi/Aulia Wardah)

Producer Chand Parwez Servia stated that this film not only offers a horror story but also presents a touching tale of friendship. According to him, the struggles of Arga, Satria, and Naya to escape from Alas Lali Jiwo, as well as Noval and Tita's efforts to find their three friends, illustrate the importance of belief and solidarity.

Director Indra Gunawan also revealed that the shooting process took place at several iconic locations along the Mount Welirang hiking trail, including an area with waterfalls that features natural beauty and is believed to hold magical energy. The challenging terrain conditions became part of the experience during the film's production process.

3. The Cast Picks Positive Messages from the Film

Cast of the film 'PETAKA GUNUNG WELIRANG' (Credit: KapanLagi/Aulia Wardah)

Antonio Blanco Jr, who plays Satria, admitted that the shooting process was his first experience in film production on a hiking trail. He believes this film teaches the importance of respecting local belief values while also conveying messages about friendship and the ability to control ego when facing various situations.

Additionally, Giulio Parengkuan and Alika Jantinia believe that Disaster of Mount Welirang carries a message about the importance of mutual trust, not prioritizing personal interests, and maintaining honesty during the climb. Through a horror story based on real experiences, this film not only presents mystical terror but also conveys values that can serve as lessons for its viewers.

(kpl/awk)