The Indonesian horror film ‘Sijjin’ debuted in Karachi theaters on January 19. The theaters were filled on the first day.
As everyone knows, horror films aren’t exactly the biggest draws in Pakistan. However, “Sijjin” appears to be defying the norm. People have been coming for more than a week now, only seeking more scares.
People in Pakistan typically reserve their moviegoing excursions for Hollywood horror films like “Insidious” or “Conjuring.” However, this movie is drawing interest from a wide audience, not just devoted horror enthusiasts.
Despite its Indonesian dialogue, an Indonesian picture experienced an unexpected spike in attendance, providing an intriguing narrative twist for Karachi’s film industry.
The addition of English subtitles made this movie experience a unique draw for viewers.
The team at Geo Digital found themselves immersed in social media rumors when they chose to attend the Sijjin viewing party. There were rumors circulating that the movie might not be your typical cinematic experience. The rumor was that the plot included whispers of black magic spells that would have an impact on the gullible audience.
So, intrigued, the Geo Digital team went inside the theater, not just anticipating a fun night out but also wondering if the rumors of mystical effects were true.
Equipped with inquisitiveness, we engaged in dialogue with our fellow cinemagoers. Discussions in the film’s aftermath revealed that the film had become a phenomenon, attracting viewers with its distinct fusion of Indonesian horror expertise and a gripping plot rooted in the world of black magic.
A movie enthusiast revealed that Sijjin’s appeal extended beyond a relaxing evening of viewing. Audiences were drawn to the buzz generated by the circulating rumors, much like moths to a flame. But as one moviegoer put it, “It wasn’t exactly dealing in truths on social media.”
The unforeseen attendance
As the layers of mystery are revealed, it becomes clear that the movie is not new to the world of film.
It is the six-part Indonesian adaptation of a Turkish horror story that has developed a unique storyline.
This Indonesian version, which is based on a particular 2014 episode, has made its way to Pakistan.
The general manager of the theater that is handling the film’s distribution, Mirza Saad Baig, shared details on the film’s box office run, telling us that in its first week alone, it had already brought in over Rs20 million nationwide.
“Earlier, we screened musical concert films and animated Japanese films. We’re going to show three Thai films in Pakistan the following month, including rom-coms, horror, and action flicks.
Talks are under way with foreign nations to introduce additional motion pictures to Pakistan.Pakistani filmmakers should take note of this: Sijjin’s screening has brought life to the dead silence of Pakistani cinemas, demonstrating that a strong narrative and high production values can cut through language boundaries and entice audiences to the cinematic experience.
