One of the most-watched series on Netflix globally is “Joko Anwar’s Nightmares and Daydreams,” an anthology from one of Indonesia’s most interesting new directors. According to FlixPatrol, the series is currently the eighth spot of the most-watched list.
Anwar is regarded as one of the most interesting Indonesian filmmakers, exploring different genres from romantic comedies (Joni’s Promise), as well as thrillers and horror films such as “Dead Time: Kala” and “The Forbidden Door.” He even has been compared with directors such as Jordan Peele and Guillermo del Toro.
However, according to critics, “Nightmares and Daydreams” is one of his best works. Here’s everything to know about this horror anthology series which will appeal to fans of the genre, as well as those interested in science fiction.
‘Nightmares and Daydreams,’ a thrilling horror series you can’t miss
As we said, ‘Nightmares and Daydreams’ is an anthology series, with every chapter seemingly not having a connection with one another. However, the narrative thread across the series is Indonesian history, and a strange phenomenon that will make sense in the series’ climax.
Each episode blends elements of horror and sci-fi with grounded stories about the country’s working class, and inequity. Also, all episodes are set in Jakarta as a location, but they follow different characters and are set in different time periods.
According to Click The City, Anwar said that “Indonesia is so full of unique and extraordinary stories,” and that he is “always excited to have the chance to bring these stories to a wider audience, especially those that relate to the origins of our world.”
In general, the series has received positive reviews. James Marsh of South China Morning Post writes that the series in its entirety “reaches its audacious climax” thanks to the “vast tapestry of converging ideas and influences.”
Nirina Zubir as Ipah in a still from “The Orphan” (Netflix)
A similar sentiment is shared by Paul Lé of Bloody Disgusting, “On their own though, not every episode is as successful as the next — a rule of thumb for all anthologies — but together they make up pieces of a mighty journey into the headspace of Indonesia’s most innovative filmmaker.”
“Joko Anwar’s Nightmares and Daydreams” is available to stream now.
