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Haunting narratives: female entities and gender inequality in Indonesian horror films

Author

Listed:
  • Filzah Ramadhani Wijaya

    (Bina Nusantara University (BINUS))

  • Virienia Puspita

    (Bina Nusantara University (BINUS))

  • Kenny Kenny

    (Bina Nusantara University (BINUS))

  • Benedict Owen Sedharta

    (Bina Nusantara University (BINUS))

Abstract

This research explores gender inequality in Indonesian horror films using Fisher’s Narrative Paradigm, with a focus on Sewu Dino, Khanzab, and Waktu Maghrib. The analysis demonstrates that these films perpetuate patriarchal narratives by repeatedly depicting women in limited roles. It examines recurring themes in gender representation, revealing that female characters are often portrayed as both victims and supernatural antagonists. Entities such as Sengarturih, Wewe Gombel, and Khanzab (a possessing spirit) reinforce traditional gender roles, frequently portraying women as either malevolent beings or powerless victims. These films amplify gender-based fears and cultural anxieties, sustaining patriarchal narratives that diminish female agency. By critically assessing these portrayals, this study contributes to the discourse on gender dynamics in Indonesian horror cinema and its broader social implications.

Suggested Citation

  • Filzah Ramadhani Wijaya & Virienia Puspita & Kenny Kenny & Benedict Owen Sedharta, 2025. "Haunting narratives: female entities and gender inequality in Indonesian horror films," Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 12(1), pages 1-12, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:palcom:v:12:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1057_s41599-025-04815-x
    DOI: 10.1057/s41599-025-04815-x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Pimpatchanok Manaworapong & Neil Evan Jon Anthony Bowen, 2022. "Language, gender, and patriarchy in Mulan: a diachronic analysis of a Disney Princess movie," Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 9(1), pages 1-12, December.
    2. Douglas Guilbeault & Solène Delecourt & Tasker Hull & Bhargav Srinivasa Desikan & Mark Chu & Ethan Nadler, 2024. "Online images amplify gender bias," Nature, Nature, vol. 626(8001), pages 1049-1055, February.
    3. Tara Anglelorenza Pricilly Dea & Aliefya Rachim Maharani, 2021. "Public interaction of health workers during the Covid-19 pandemic," International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147-4478), Center for the Strategic Studies in Business and Finance, vol. 10(6), pages 268-277, September.
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