🎬 𝐃𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 (𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒)

Dominion of Darkness (2024) is a chilling Indonesian supernatural horror film that follows the story of a young priest named Thomas, who is struggling with his faith after the tragic loss of his mother and sister. On the verge of leaving the priesthood, Thomas is assigned one final mission—to assist an aging and ailing priest, Father Rendra, in performing an exorcism. The possessed victim is Kayla, the best friend of his late sister, which makes the case intensely personal.

As Thomas joins the exorcism, he finds himself facing not only a demonic entity but also the emotional torment he has buried for years. Kayla’s possession is not random; it ties deeply into her family's past, especially her mother Maya, whose own hidden traumas begin to surface under the demonic influence. The evil spirit thrives on guilt and sorrow, feeding on the emotional wounds of everyone involved. The film slowly peels back the layers of each character’s past, exposing painful truths.

The atmosphere is heavy with dread, blending traditional exorcism horror with psychological tension. Dimly lit settings, eerie whispers, and slow, unsettling buildups enhance the terrifying mood. The spiritual battle becomes more than a clash between man and demon—it’s also a test of belief, forgiveness, and redemption. Thomas is forced to confront his own inner darkness, realizing that faith is not about certainty but about courage in the face of fear.

One of the film’s strengths lies in its performances, particularly the intense presence of Father Rendra, whose frailty masks deep spiritual strength. The dynamic between the two priests is central, contrasting youth and doubt with age and unwavering belief. Kayla’s portrayal swings between vulnerable and terrifying, creating a sense of unpredictability that keeps the tension high throughout the story.

Dominion of Darkness stands out with its cultural context, rooted in Southeast Asian beliefs and exorcism rituals. Rather than relying solely on jump scares, it explores themes of generational trauma, suppressed guilt, and the high cost of silence. The horror lingers not just in the demonic possessions but in the emotional scars that never healed. It’s a story that haunts beyond its final scene, leaving viewers unsettled and contemplative.