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Labinak: They Are Amongst Us

Name: Labinak: They Are Amongst Us
Director: Azhar Kinoi Lubis
Released: 2025
Duration: 100 min

Representation Score

6.3/10

Good

2025

Director

Azhar Kinoi Lubis

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Labinak: They Are Amongst Us uses folk horror to address systemic injustice and ancestral trauma. By focusing on a mother's struggle against a corrupt institution, the film avoids common horror clichés. The strength of the film lies in its subversion of traditional gender roles and its critique of institutional authority. It highlights women's ability to drive the story and intellect, moving away from the typical male-dominated narratives. However, the film does not include representation for LGBTQ+ identities or characters with disabilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does Labinak: They Are Amongst Us have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The story centers on the relationship between Najwa and Yanti, with no explicit depiction of LGBTQ+ identities or dynamics outside of heterosexual relationships.

How does Labinak: They Are Amongst Us portray gender?

Good

Najwa is portrayed as an active and intelligent protagonist who drives the survival narrative with her maternal resilience.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Labinak: They Are Amongst Us?

Good

The film explores indigenous cultural practices and ancestral trauma through folk horror elements. A diverse cast of Indonesian actors enhances the authenticity of the local setting.

How does Labinak: They Are Amongst Us represent religion and culture?

Good

It critiques institutional power by depicting an elite foundation as a force of systemic violence. Vengeful spirits are shown as victims of historical wrongs.

Does Labinak: They Are Amongst Us include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no indication of the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities among the characters.

Present on Screen

Highlights women's ability to drive the story and intellect through an active protagonist.
Critiques institutional power and systemic corruption effectively.
Explores indigenous cultural practices and post-colonial themes.

Limited or Absent

No explicit LGBTQ+ representation or queer subtext.
No characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Najwa, a teacher from a small town, moves to Jakarta for the sake of her daughter Yanti’s future after accepting a teaching position at an elite school run by a foundation. However, their new home harbors both terror and clues from vengeful spirits—victims of an ancient cannibalistic practice carried out by the foundation's founders. As a deadly ritual draws near, Najwa must confront dark forces to save herself and her daughter from becoming the next sacrifices in the cannibalistic rite.

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