Movie Review: Sakaratul Maut (2024) – A Terrifying Descent Into Darkness

In Sakaratul Maut (2024), director Ahmad F. Rahman crafts a chilling meditation on death, sin, and the supernatural that will linger with you long after the credits roll. The title, meaning “the agony of death,” is no exaggeration—this film doesn’t just scare you; it haunts you.

The story follows Aisha, a young nurse working in a rural hospital, who begins witnessing terrifying visions after the mysterious death of an elderly patient. As her world unravels, she discovers a horrifying truth: the veil between life and death is thinning, and something ancient is trying to cross over.

From its slow-burning opening to its harrowing final act, Sakaratul Maut excels in building dread. The sound design alone is a masterclass in horror—whispers in the dark, distant cries, and sudden silences that make your skin crawl. Add to that dimly lit hospital corridors, shadowy figures in prayer rooms, and chilling dream sequences, and you’ve got a deeply atmospheric experience.

The film is as much psychological as it is supernatural. It explores themes of guilt, spiritual decay, and the consequences of ignoring the unseen. Lead actress Putri Ayu delivers a gripping performance as a woman pushed to the brink of sanity.

If there’s a downside, it’s that the pacing may feel slow for fans of more jump-scare-heavy horror. But for those who love dread-driven storytelling and philosophical horror, Sakaratul Maut is a must-watch.

Final Verdict:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (4.5/5)
Terrifying, thought-provoking, and beautifully shot – Sakaratul Maut is a standout in modern Southeast Asian horror cinema.