Container Port Development Projects on The Java Sea, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Horror films are closely related toh spooky, scary atmospheres. Yet, on occassions, comedic and sensual touches accompany the presentation of films of this genre. The presence of sensuality and comedy is considered as disturbing the narrative stability of the horror films. Purpose: This research aims at performing a deconstructive reading of two Indonesian contemporary horror films by reviewing how post-modernism values exert influence on horror films. Method: This research uses a qualitative approach and textual analysis method with deconstructive reading. Observation is performed on two Indonesian horror films entitled Pocong Mandi Goyang Pinggul and Kuntilanak Kesurupan. The analysis units of this research are the scenes, dialogs, and metaphysical hierarchy or two fundamental, contrasting values of the two paradoxical Indonesian films that come with contemporary horror film narratives. Results: The results of the reading of the two films indicate narrative instability of the films, hinting a post-modernist influence on the horror films' texts such as parody, pastiche, nostalgia, the melting-down of boundaries and social norms pertaining to taboos, and variability of grand narratives. Conclusion: There is a post-modernist influence on the contemporary horror film texts in Indonesia.