Tarot (2015) Indonesian Movie: Full Story & Review

Hey guys! Ever been curious about Indonesian horror flicks, especially those with a spooky, mystical vibe? Well, let's dive deep into Tarot, a 2015 Indonesian horror movie that might just give you the chills. In this article, we're going to explore everything about this movie, from its plot and characters to why it might be worth a watch (or a skip!). So, grab your popcorn, turn on the lights, and let’s get started!

What is Tarot (2015) All About?

Tarot, at its core, revolves around the terrifying consequences of messing with the occult. The main plot centers on a young couple whose lives take a dark turn after they decide to use tarot cards for a bit of fun. Of course, as horror movies usually go, this innocent game unleashes something sinister, turning their world upside down. The film blends elements of traditional Indonesian folklore with modern horror tropes, creating a unique, eerie atmosphere. It's not just about jump scares; it delves into themes of fate, destiny, and the dangers of dabbling in things we don't understand. What makes it particularly interesting is its Indonesian cultural context, which adds layers of mysticism and local beliefs to the storyline. Think of it as a cautionary tale wrapped in a spooky package, designed to keep you on the edge of your seat.

The story begins with Julie and Tristan, a happy couple excited about their future. They decide to have a tarot reading, more out of curiosity than anything else. Little do they know, this seemingly harmless act will awaken a malevolent entity tied to the cards. Soon, strange and terrifying things start happening around them. They experience horrifying visions, unsettling occurrences, and realize they are being haunted by something truly evil. The tarot cards, once a source of amusement, become a harbinger of doom. As the couple delves deeper into the mystery, they uncover a dark secret from their past, revealing a connection to the supernatural forces at play. This revelation forces them to confront not only the evil spirit but also their own personal demons. The movie then becomes a race against time as Julie and Tristan try to break the curse and save themselves from the clutches of the malevolent entity. Their journey takes them through various eerie locations, encounters with mysterious characters, and a series of increasingly terrifying events. All the while, the tarot cards serve as a constant reminder of their impending doom, each card predicting a new horror that awaits them. Ultimately, the film explores the idea that some doors are best left unopened and that tampering with the supernatural can have dire consequences.

Meet the Cast and Characters

• Shandy Aulia as Julie: Shandy Aulia plays the lead role of Julie, one half of the central couple. She portrays Julie as a determined yet increasingly frightened young woman who is desperately trying to protect herself and her loved ones from the evil forces unleashed by the tarot cards. Aulia's performance captures Julie's transformation from a carefree individual to someone haunted by fear and driven by a desperate need to survive. Her portrayal adds emotional depth to the film, making the audience empathize with her plight as she confronts the supernatural horrors. Shandy Aulia, known for her roles in other Indonesian horror films, brings a level of experience and credibility to the role. Her ability to convey fear and vulnerability makes her character relatable, drawing viewers further into the story and intensifying the sense of dread.

• Boy William as Tristan: Boy William stars as Tristan, Julie's partner, who initially approaches the tarot reading with skepticism but soon becomes a believer as terrifying events unfold. William's portrayal of Tristan showcases his transition from a confident young man to someone grappling with fear and desperation. He effectively conveys Tristan's struggle to protect Julie and find a way to break the curse, adding to the tension and suspense of the film. Boy William, a popular Indonesian actor and host, brings charisma and a sense of urgency to the role. His on-screen chemistry with Shandy Aulia enhances the emotional impact of the story, making their shared ordeal all the more compelling.

• Sara Wijayanto as Mrs. Ratna: Sara Wijayanto plays Mrs. Ratna, a mysterious and enigmatic figure who possesses knowledge about the occult and the dark forces at play. Wijayanto's performance adds an element of intrigue and mystique to the film. She portrays Mrs. Ratna as someone who understands the gravity of the situation and offers cryptic advice to Julie and Tristan, guiding them on their perilous journey. Sara Wijayanto, known for her interest in paranormal phenomena, brings authenticity to the role. Her portrayal of Mrs. Ratna as a knowledgeable and somewhat foreboding character adds depth to the narrative, making her interactions with the main characters all the more compelling.

Why Watch It (or Not)?

So, should you watch Tarot? Well, it depends on what you're looking for in a horror movie! If you're a fan of Indonesian horror, which often blends cultural elements with supernatural scares, then this might be right up your alley. The movie does a decent job of creating a suspenseful atmosphere, and the use of tarot cards as a central theme is quite intriguing. However, if you're after Hollywood-level special effects and a tightly woven plot, you might be a tad disappointed. Some viewers have noted that the storyline can be a bit predictable, and the scares rely more on jump scares than psychological horror. But hey, if you're in the mood for some good old-fashioned spooky fun with a local twist, give it a shot!

Pros:

• Cultural Integration: Tarot effectively incorporates Indonesian folklore and beliefs, adding a unique flavor to the horror genre. This cultural context sets it apart from typical Western horror films, offering a fresh perspective on supernatural themes.

• Suspenseful Atmosphere: The movie excels at creating a suspenseful and eerie atmosphere, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The use of dark, shadowy settings and unsettling sound effects enhances the overall sense of dread.

• Interesting Premise: The premise of using tarot cards as a gateway to unleashing evil is intriguing and provides a solid foundation for the plot. The connection between the cards and the supernatural forces adds a layer of mystery and suspense.

Cons:

• Predictable Storyline: Some viewers may find the storyline somewhat predictable, as it follows familiar horror tropes. The plot twists and turns may not be as surprising or innovative as some might expect.

• Reliance on Jump Scares: The film relies heavily on jump scares, which can become repetitive and less effective over time. While jump scares can be momentarily startling, they may not provide the lasting sense of dread that psychological horror can offer.

• Special Effects: The special effects in Tarot may not be as polished or realistic as those in higher-budget films. This can detract from the overall immersion and impact of the horror elements.

Where to Find It?

Finding Tarot (2015) with English subtitles might require a bit of digging. Your best bet is to check online streaming platforms that specialize in Indonesian movies. Sometimes, you can find it on general streaming services, but it might not always be available due to regional restrictions. Also, keep an eye on online DVD stores that carry international films. If you're lucky, you might stumble upon a copy there. Don't forget to explore fan forums and communities dedicated to Indonesian cinema; fellow enthusiasts might be able to point you in the right direction!

Final Thoughts

Tarot (2015) is a decent Indonesian horror movie that offers a blend of cultural mysticism and spooky thrills. While it might not break new ground in the horror genre, it’s a fun watch if you're into exploring different flavors of horror from around the world. So, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to experience a taste of Indonesian supernatural cinema, give Tarot a try. Just remember to take it with a grain of salt and enjoy the ride! Happy watching, guys!