Makmum

Makmum is a 2016 Malaysian horror film directed by Faisal Benjaras and starring Zul Ariffin, Siti Saleha, and Fizz Fairuz. The movie takes place in a dormitory at a prestigious Islamic university, where a group of students live and study together. Among them is Adi (played by Zul Ariffin), a devoted student who is known for his dedication to his faith. The story begins with Adi feeling uneasy about his life in the dormitory. He senses that something is off, and his friends are initially dismissive of his concerns. However, strange things start to happen, and Adi becomes convinced that they are being terrorized by a supernatural creature known as a "Makmum." In Islam, a Makmum is a type of jinn (or genie) that is believed to be a follower of a person's prayer. This creature is said to follow a person during prayer and feed on their emotions, particularly their fear and anxiety. According to Malay tradition, if a Makmum is encountered, it can be extremely terrifying and can even lead to physical harm. As the events escalate, Adi and his friends try to uncover the source of the mysterious creature. They turn to various Islamic books and texts, seeking guidance on how to ward off the Makmum. Adi becomes increasingly obsessed with understanding the creature and its true nature, convinced that it is a harbinger of doom for those living in the dormitory. One of Adi's friends, a beautiful girl named Iman (played by Siti Saleha), is drawn to Adi's conviction about the Makmum. She begins to investigate alongside Adi and soon becomes convinced that there is indeed a supernatural presence lurking in the shadows. As they delve deeper into the mystery, they discover that one of their fellow students has been researching the Makmum and has uncovered some disturbing secrets about the creature. The more they learn, the more terrified they become, and the lines between reality and myth begin to blur. The tension builds as Adi and Iman realize that the Makmum is not just a figment of their imagination but is, in fact, very real. They begin to experience terrifying and unexplained phenomena, which seem to be linked to their prayers and recitations of the Quran. The performances of Zul Ariffin and Siti Saleha are impressive, bringing a sense of authenticity to the story. Their on-screen chemistry adds depth to the characters, making their interactions believable and heartfelt. The cinematography is well-executed, capturing the eerie atmosphere and fear that permeates every scene. Faisal Benjaras's direction is clever and suspenseful, drawing the viewer into the mystery of the Makmum. He uses a range of techniques, from jump scares to slow-burning tension, to create an atmosphere of unease that keeps the viewer on edge. Ultimately, Makmum is a thought-provoking exploration of faith, fear, and the supernatural. The movie raises questions about the nature of reality and the impact that our perceptions can have on our experiences. By delving into Malay folklore and the world of Islamic mysticism, the film creates a unique and captivating narrative that keeps viewers engaged and invested in the story. Makmum is a must-see for horror fans and those interested in exploring different cultural traditions. While the movie may be intense and disturbing at times, it is ultimately a cautionary tale that reminds us of the power of faith and the importance of understanding the world around us.