“Pusaka beckons you into a world where ancient curses breathe through bloodlines and secrets are written in shadows.”
Pusaka (2025) emerges as a chilling new chapter in Southeast Asian horror cinema, weaving supernatural terror with a powerful tale of heritage and hidden secrets. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Rizal Kamal, the film explores how the past refuses to stay buried—and how ancestral treasures can become deadly traps.
The story follows Arif, a young man who inherits an ancient heirloom after the death of his estranged father. The object, believed to be a powerful pusaka passed through generations, soon reveals a sinister side as mysterious deaths and eerie occurrences plague Arif’s life. What begins as curiosity becomes a fight for survival, as the artifact’s curse threatens everyone he loves.
Visually, Pusaka captivates with haunting cinematography, drenched in shadowy colors and atmospheric lighting that heighten the sense of dread. The film draws deeply from Malay folklore and spiritual beliefs, introducing spirits, forbidden rituals, and symbols that are both fascinating and frightening for audiences unfamiliar with Southeast Asian mysticism.
Beyond the scares, the film delves into themes of family loyalty, guilt, and the weight of cultural expectations. As Arif pieces together the truth behind his family’s secrets, he’s forced to confront his own fears and decide whether to keep the pusaka—or destroy it once and for all.
With a gripping narrative, authentic cultural touches, and spine-chilling moments, Pusaka (2025) stands poised to leave an indelible mark on the horror genre, proving that some treasures should remain hidden.
