Bayi Ajaib (2023)
Bayi Ajaib (2023), directed by Rako Prijanto, is a horror film that reimagines the 1982 Indonesian cult classic of the same name. Released on January 19, 2023, in Indonesia and later available on Netflix as of May 19, 2023, this remake blends traditional folklore with modern horror sensibilities, delivering a campy yet gory tale of a possessed infant wreaking havoc in a rural village. Starring Vino G. Bastian, Adipati Dolken, Desy Ratnasari, and T. Rifnu Wikana, the film dives into themes of greed, revenge, and the consequences of tampering with dark forces—all set against the backdrop of Indonesia’s lush countryside.
The Plot: From Riches to Ruin
The story centers on Kosim (Vino G. Bastian), a man who strikes it rich overnight after discovering gold in a river near the village of Hirupbagja. With his newfound wealth, Kosim marries his love, Sumi (Sara Fajira), and quickly establishes himself as a prosperous landlord. However, his greed and exploitative behavior toward the villagers set the stage for a dark turn of events. As Kosim basks in his comfortable life, his wife becomes pregnant, and he eagerly anticipates the birth of a son to carry on his legacy.
The narrative takes a sinister twist during a solar eclipse, a time steeped in ominous superstition. Sumi, now heavily pregnant, wanders into the forest and encounters a terrifying fate orchestrated by Dorman (Adipati Dolken), a poverty-stricken villager with a grudge against Kosim. Driven by his own greed, Dorman has been plotting to resurrect the spirit of his Portuguese grandfather, Alberto Dominique, a malevolent figure buried long ago. To achieve this, Dorman performs a dark ritual, using Sumi’s unborn child as a vessel for the unholy spirit. Sumi falls into a grave during the ritual, and though she survives, the child she carries is no longer entirely her own.
When Sumi gives birth to a boy named Didi (Rayhan Cornelis), the couple initially rejoices. But it soon becomes clear that something is horribly wrong. The infant exhibits disturbing behavior—unnatural strength, eerie cackling, and a grotesque appearance that includes an old man’s face, complete with white hair and a beard. Didi is possessed by Alberto’s vengeful spirit, and the baby begins terrorizing the village, killing villagers in gruesome ways and spreading chaos. Kosim’s once-idyllic life crumbles as he grapples with the realization that his son is a monster.
The Horror Unfolds: Possession and Mayhem
As Didi’s rampage escalates, the film leans into its horror roots with a mix of practical effects and CGI, showcasing blood-soaked kills and jump scares. One standout scene involves a bathroom murder that’s both shocking and absurdly over-the-top, embodying the film’s campy tone. The possessed infant becomes a symbol of retribution, targeting those connected to Kosim’s greed and the village’s unrest. Meanwhile, Dorman lurks in the background, manipulating events to seize power through the chaos he’s unleashed.
Kosim, desperate to save his family and reclaim his son, turns to religion for salvation. The film swerves into Exorcist-like territory as he enlists the help of spiritual figures to battle the demon within Didi. The clash between good and evil unfolds with dramatic flair, complete with cackling villains and a frantic struggle to exorcise the spirit. The stakes rise as the village descends into panic, and Kosim faces the consequences of his own ambition.
The Climax and Open-Ended Legacy
The movie builds to a chaotic showdown where Kosim confronts both the possessed Didi and Dorman’s machinations. While the spirit of Alberto is temporarily subdued, the resolution leaves room for ambiguity—hinting that the evil may not be fully vanquished. The final moments suggest a foot in the door for potential sequels, a nod to the film’s popularity in Indonesia and its cult potential abroad. Kosim’s journey from riches to ruin serves as a cautionary tale, while the film’s blend of horror and unintentional comedy leaves viewers with a polarizing experience.
Themes and Style
Bayi Ajaib explores greed and its repercussions, weaving in elements of Indonesian folklore and religious undertones. The rural setting of Hirupbagja adds authenticity, offering glimpses of village life that contrast with the supernatural terror. Director Rako Prijanto modernizes the original’s lo-fi aesthetic with vibrant visuals, though the CGI and practical effects sometimes feel dated or exaggerated, contributing to the film’s campy charm. The score, while occasionally out of place, enhances the vintage horror vibe, reminiscent of classic B-movies.
Reception and Final Thoughts
The film has divided audiences. Some praise its bold gore, jump scares, and absurd humor, calling it a standout in Indonesia’s horror scene—evidenced by reviews dubbing it an “instant classic” for its entertainment value. Others criticize its reliance on predictable tropes, lackluster CGI, and failure to sustain genuine dread, with outlets like Film Fugitives noting it falls short compared to modern horror benchmarks like M3GAN or Evil Dead Rise. At 97 minutes, it’s a quick watch that doesn’t overstay its welcome, making it ideal for horror fans seeking something quirky and unconventional.
Where to Watch Bayi Ajaib (2023)
As of May 18, 2025, Bayi Ajaib (2023), the Indonesian horror film directed by Rako Prijanto and starring Vino G. Bastian, is available on the following platforms, based on verified web sources:
- Netflix: Stream with a subscription, available in India and globally. The film is listed with English and Indonesian subtitles, accessible in HD under the horror category. This is the most reliable and widely confirmed platform.
- bilibili.tv: Stream for free with a premium account on this Southeast Asian anime, comics, and games platform. The full movie is available in HD, primarily targeting Indonesian audiences but accessible in India with English subtitles. Verify regional availability, as some content may be geo-restricted.
- YouTube: Limited availability for rent or purchase, though not explicitly listed as a primary option. Search “Bayi Ajaib 2023 full movie” to check for official uploads or paid streaming, but beware of unofficial uploads that may violate copyright.
