Rizal Mantovani Reveals the Secret Behind the Terror of 'REGO NYOWO', Not Just Any Pocong

Kapanlagi.com - The production house Hitmaker Studios returns with a new horror work titled REGO NYOWO, adapted from a viral thread on X. This film, directed by Rizal Mantovani, promises a different horror experience, especially in the depiction of a ghost that is already very familiar in Indonesia.

Rizal Mantovani stated that he intentionally redesigned the appearance of pocong to provide a fresh horror for the audience. According to him, this is an important step for his film to have a strong identity.

"Because the depiction of pocong has been done many times, we need to have our own brand," Rizal Mantovani expressed during a press conference held at Plaza Indonesia, Central Jakarta, on Friday (25/7/2025).

1. Not an Ordinary Pocong

© KapanLagi.com/Sahal Fadhli

He added that the pocong in REGO NYOWO is made differently, one of which is by hanging it and having other unique characteristics that will become elements of surprise. Rizal wants to ensure that the terror presented feels original and leaves a mark on the audience's mind.

"Among other things, it is hung and the rope has no end, going all the way up. And its tongue also has a certain characteristic," he explained.

2. Super Wide Banana Garden

© KapanLagi.com/Sahal Fadhli

Not only about ghosts, the biggest challenge in the production of this film actually came from the search for locations. Rizal recounted how difficult it was to find a banana garden that matched his vision. Producer Rocky Soraya wanted a garden that was very wide, not just ordinary wide.

"Mr. Rocky asked for a banana garden that is really wide, not just wide, but really, really wide," said Rizal while laughing.

This location was needed for shooting with a drone to capture the scale of the horror that is massive. After a difficult search, the team finally managed to find the perfect location in Padalarang.

3. Close to Community Life

© KapanLagi.com/Sahal Fadhli

On the other hand, Rocky Soraya as the producer explained the main reason why she was interested in bringing this story to life. For her, the theme of boarding houses is very close to the lives of the Indonesian people, making it easier to connect.

"This is very relatable about boarding houses. Almost, I can say almost 50% of people in Indonesia have lived in boarding houses, at least, or know someone who lives in a boarding house," said Rocky Soraya.

With a story that resonates with the community and visuals that are crafted seriously, REGO NYOWO is ready to haunt cinemas across Indonesia starting July 31, 2025.

(kpl/aal/rsp)