Jakarta, IDN Times - Dendam Malam Kelam (2025), a remake of the Spanish film El Cuerpo (2012), presents a mystery story that is far from just an affair drama. Directed by Danial Rifki, this Falcon Pictures production film successfully captivates with the strong acting of its players and a plot that invites the audience to keep guessing until the last minute.

However, is this remake able to match the horror atmosphere and plot twists of the original version? Here is a review of the advantages and disadvantages of Dendam Malam Kelam. Let's take a look!

1. Solid acting from the four main actors

Arya Saloka, Marissa Anita, Davina Karamoy, and Bront Palarae present stunning performances. The four of them managed to bring to life morally grey characters that leave the audience confused, who will we side with?

Arya Saloka as Jefri, a grieving widower, but full of manipulation, makes him unworthy of empathy. On the other hand, his wife, Sofia (Marissa Anita), appears as a dominant but unstable figure, capturing the nuances of loneliness behind the luxury.

Sarah, played by Davina Karamoy, successfully becomes a seductress who seems innocent, but deserves to be watched out for. Last but not least, Bront Palarae as a detective with hidden motives behind it. The four of them make every scene feel like a psychological duel.

2. Mystery plot packaged like a puzzle

Different from conventional horror that relies on jumpscares, this film is a psychological thriller that invites the audience to solve the puzzles in it. Danial Rifki designs a plot like a puzzle with hidden clues in the dialogue and visuals.

The story of Sofia's body disappearing from the morgue, which triggers Detective Arya's investigation, feels intense thanks to the fast rhythm and twists that are revealed gradually. Although the tempo is quite slow at the beginning, the tension that is built keeps us glued until the end.

3. Faithful to the original version, El Cuerpo (2012)

Dendam Malam Kelam remains faithful to El Cuerpo with a few adjustments, making it feel local without losing the core story of the original version. Even so, some of the emotional layers are less deep when compared to the Spanish version.

In conclusion, the acting of the actors is the main advantage of this film. The plot is clever, perfect for fans of thrillers who like to think. Unfortunately, the pace is slow at the beginning of the film, and some of the twists are less surprising for those who have seen the original.