Directed by Adhe Dharmastriya, the Indonesian thriller Bangsal Isolasi struggles to deliver a truly gripping experience. The prison setting fails to evoke the oppressive atmosphere vital to such a narrative. Instead, the vibrant makeup of the actors and the overly relaxed environment give the film an unintended air of leisure, making the setting feel more like a retreat than a penitentiary, which undermines the tension and grit the story demands.

Despite these flaws, the film explores the compelling journey of two sisters. Weni, the elder sibling, infiltrates the prison where her younger sister, Ratna, mysteriously died. Determined to uncover the truth, Weni leverages her skills as a journalist to piece together the events leading to Ratna’s untimely demise. What dark secrets does Weni unveil? Let’s unravel the layers of this suspenseful tale.

Spoilers Ahead.

Bangsal Isolasi (2024) Plot Summary and Movie Synopsis: Why does Weni Arrive at the Jail?...