Do You See What I See (2024)
Story overview
In this 2024 Indonesian horror-thriller, Mawar experiences her first romantic relationship, but her friends grow increasingly suspicious of her boyfriend's true nature, leading to tension and fear as they uncover unsettling truths.
Parent Guide
A psychological horror-thriller focusing on relationship deception and growing suspicion among friends. Contains atmospheric tension and emotional intensity rather than graphic content.
Content breakdown
Psychological peril and tension rather than physical violence. Characters may be in threatening situations, but no graphic violence depicted.
Atmospheric horror elements, suspenseful sequences, and psychological tension. May include jump scares or unsettling revelations about characters.
No strong language expected in Indonesian horror-drama, but English subtitles may contain mild expressions.
May contain romantic themes but no explicit sexual content or nudity based on typical Indonesian horror genre conventions.
No substance use depicted or implied.
High emotional tension from relationship deception, friend conflicts, and suspenseful situations. Characters experience fear, suspicion, and betrayal.
Parent tips
This film contains suspenseful elements typical of horror-thrillers, including psychological tension and potentially frightening scenes. Parents should be aware of themes involving deception and danger in relationships. The movie may be too intense for younger children due to its atmospheric horror elements and emotional intensity.
Parent chat guide
Parent follow-up questions
—
- What did Mawar's friends do to help her?
- What made the friends worried about the boyfriend?
- Why do you think Mawar didn't see the warning signs her friends noticed?
- How did the movie build suspense without showing graphic violence?
- How does this film explore themes of trust versus suspicion in relationships?
- What cinematic techniques did the director use to create psychological tension?
🎭 Story Kernel
Do You See What I See explores the dangerous intersection of youthful romanticism and supernatural exploitation. At its core, the film delves into the psychological vulnerability of Mawar, a young woman whose longing for companionship blinds her to the literal stench of death. By adapting a popular podcast episode, the narrative examines how grief and loneliness can distort perception, allowing a malevolent entity to infiltrate the sanctuary of a student boarding house. It is less about the jump scares and more about the tragic realization that Mawar’s 'perfect' boyfriend is a parasitic spirit. The film serves as a grim metaphor for toxic relationships, where the red flags are ignored until the rot becomes impossible to hide, ultimately questioning the price one pays for seeking comfort in the arms of the deceased.
🎬 Visual Aesthetics
Awi Suryadi employs a claustrophobic visual language, utilizing the cramped quarters of the boarding house to heighten the sense of impending doom. The cinematography contrasts the warm, soft-lit moments of Mawar’s perceived romance with the cold, sickly palettes associated with the supernatural presence of Restu. Symbolism is found in the recurring imagery of barriers—walls, doors, and mirrors—that separate the characters from the truth. The use of practical effects for the pocong entity adds a visceral, tactile quality to the horror, grounding the supernatural elements in a gritty reality. The lighting often leaves the corners of the frame in deep shadow, forcing the audience to scan the background, mirroring the title's invitation to look closer at what is hidden in plain sight, effectively building a pervasive sense of dread.
🔍 Details & Easter Eggs
💡 Behind the Scenes
Director Awi Suryadi, who previously helmed the record-breaking KKN di Desa Penari, took on this project to further explore the Cerita Horor universe. The film stars Shenina Cinnamon and Diandra Agatha, who underwent rigorous preparation to portray the strained friendship at the heart of the story. Interestingly, the production team worked closely with Mizter Popo to ensure the atmospheric tension of the original podcast was preserved. The film's release in May 2024 marked a significant moment for Indonesian horror, as it capitalized on the trend of adapting digital-native urban legends into high-budget cinematic experiences.
Where to watch
Choose region:
- Netflix
- Netflix Standard with Ads
Trailer
Trailer playback is unavailable in your region.
