Cast
View All
Crew
Director
- Ali Shahab
Producer
- Leonita Sutopo
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Drama/Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Mystery of the Old Well presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Ali Shahab brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1987, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Mystery of the Old Well took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 151 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1593 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 80 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1987, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Mystery of the Old Well shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Cell 2, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Mystery of the Old Well offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like American Psycho and Strangled explore similar territory, Mystery of the Old Well stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 1, 1987
- Runtime: 1h 35m
