In a surprising yet inspiring cross-cultural encounter, a Thai Catholic priest has commended Kuasa Gelap (Dominion of Darkness), an Indonesian horror film centered on Christian exorcism, for its respectful and faith-filled portrayal of the Catholic Church in the heart of the world’s largest Muslim nation.
Fr. Joseph Anucha Chaiyadej, Executive Director of Catholic Social Communication of Thailand (CSCT), shared his thoughtful review on social media and in a personal interview on July 4, inviting fellow Catholics to approach the film not just as entertainment but as an opportunity to reflect on faith, doubt, and the power of God at work—even in secular media.
“As a media person and a Catholic priest, I was intrigued,” Fr. Anucha told LiCAS News. “I wondered how a story about Christian exorcism would be presented in Indonesia, where Christianity is not the majority faith. Would it honor the sacredness of our Church and our rites? I am pleased to say the film handles these with surprising reverence.”
Released in 2024, Kuasa Gelap tells the story of Father Thomas, a priest on the brink of abandoning his vocation after enduring personal tragedy and a profound crisis of faith.
His path is redirected when he encounters a case of demonic possession at a local school, leading him to collaborate with Father Rendra, an experienced exorcist. Together, they confront the forces of darkness—both external and within.
Fr. Anucha noted a providential detail: the film’s main character bears the name Thomas — a name synonymous in Christian tradition with the Apostle who doubted but ultimately made the resounding confession, “My Lord and my God.”
Remarkably, Fr. Anucha shared his reflection the day after the Catholic Church celebrated the Feast of St. Thomas the Apostle. “The character’s struggle with doubt, faith, and his priestly identity mirrors the journey of the Apostle Thomas. It feels like a gentle reminder that the journey from doubt to faith is sacred and universal,” he reflected.
While acknowledging that the film, as a horror genre, has some logical gaps — “but what ghost story doesn’t?” — Fr. Anucha emphasized that Kuasa Gelap offers something valuable: a careful representation of Catholic rites, proper priestly attire, respectful use of sacred spaces, and a storyline that touches deeply on faith and perseverance.
“I believe the filmmakers did their homework. They must have consulted with those who understand the Church. They respected the details,” he said.
Indonesian Catholic viewers have warmly embraced the film, expressing joy at seeing their faith portrayed meaningfully in local cinema. One reviewer wrote:
“For me, this is the best Indonesian horror movie because it is so rare to see Christian themes handled this well. It gave me hope and strengthened my faith.”
Another viewer shared, “Even though it’s a simple production, it carries deep meaning. It’s more than just horror — it’s a story of faith and courage.”
Fr. Anucha encouraged Thai Catholics to watch Kuasa Gelap on Netflix, especially as Thailand prepares to release its own Catholic exorcist film, Tha Rae, next month.
“When the Thai film comes, we can watch with a discerning heart. We can compare, critique, and continue learning together,” he said.
His review is more than a film commentary — it is a call to appreciate how the Spirit can work through unexpected channels, even in the realm of popular culture, and how faith stories can bridge cultures and invite dialogue in surprising ways.
