Joko Anwar Horror Comedy ‘Ghost in the Cell’ Selected for Berlin Festival Forum

Acclaimed Indonesian filmmaker Joko Anwar is set to bring his unique brand of genre cinema to the 2026 Berlin International Film Festival. The festival organizers recently announced that his latest feature titled ‘Ghost in the Cell’ has been officially selected for the prestigious Forum section. This program is widely recognized for showcasing films that push aesthetic boundaries and offer fresh perspectives on social and political issues. The inclusion of this horror comedy highlights the growing international appreciation for Southeast Asian storytelling and genre filmmaking.

The narrative of the film takes place entirely within the claustrophobic walls of a high-security prison in Indonesia. The plot follows a volatile group of inmates and guards who are forced to put aside their bitter rivalries to survive a night of terror. A mysterious and lethal supernatural entity begins stalking the facility and transforms its victims into grotesque art installations. Anwar uses this confined setting to blend visceral scares with sharp satirical humor that critiques systemic corruption and the abuse of power.

The production features a massive ensemble cast that brings together some of the biggest names in the Indonesian film industry. Abimana Aryasatya leads the group alongside veteran actors Lukman Sardi and Tora Sudiro who return to work with the director. The lineup also includes Bront Palarae, Rio Dewanto, and Morgan Oey who play key roles in the chaotic prison dynamic. This extensive cast list serves as a reunion for many performers who have appeared in Anwar’s previous box office hits and critically acclaimed projects.

The project is produced by Anwar’s own company Come and See Pictures in collaboration with major studios RAPI Films and Legacy Pictures. Producer Tia Hasibuan expressed immense pride in the selection and noted that the film offers a distinct mix of entertainment and artistic merit. International sales for the movie are being handled by the South Korean studio Barunson E&A which is best known for producing the Oscar-winning film ‘Parasite’. This partnership aims to secure a wide global release following the festival premiere.

Joko Anwar has built a formidable reputation over the last decade with successful horror titles like ‘Satan’s Slaves’ and ‘Impetigore’. While he is celebrated for his mastery of tension and atmospheric dread, this new film marks a return to the comedic elements seen in his earlier career. The movie promises to balance the intensity of a prison riot with the absurdity of a ghost story to create a wild cinematic experience. It stands out as one of the most anticipated entries in the Berlinale Forum lineup this year.

A teaser released ahead of the festival debut provides a glimpse into the bloody and chaotic world of the film. The footage showcases the stylized violence and dark humor that defines the tone of the movie. Audiences at the Berlin festival will be the first to witness the madness when the film screens at the historic Delphi Filmpalast am Zoo in February. The premiere is expected to draw attention from genre fans and international critics alike who are eager to see Anwar’s latest vision.

We would love to hear if you are excited about this new blend of horror and comedy so please leave your thoughts in the comments.