In the realm of Malaysian horror cinema, few films have captured the essence of local folklore as vividly as "Roh" (2019). This chilling tale, deeply rooted in Malay mythology, offers a unique perspective on the horror genre, blending traditional elements with modern cinematography techniques. For film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, understanding the intricacies of such films can be greatly enhanced with tools like Critily, which provides comprehensive film analysis and box office data.
Malaysian Horror CinemaMalaysian horror cinema has a rich history of drawing from local folklore and urban legends. Films like "Pontianak" and "Toyol" have paved the way for modern interpretations such as "Roh." These movies often explore themes of supernatural entities, ancestral curses, and the interplay between the living and the dead. "Roh," directed by Emirsyah Mahdi, is a prime example of how Malaysian filmmakers are revitalizing traditional horror narratives with contemporary storytelling techniques. Using Critily, one can delve deeper into the trends and patterns that define Malaysian horror cinema, offering insights into audience preferences and box office performances.
Roh Cinematography Techniques"Roh" employs a variety of cinematography techniques to create its eerie atmosphere. The use of long takes and steady cam shots immerses viewers in the film's haunting setting. The director's choice of natural lighting and shadows adds to the sense of dread and mystery. Additionally, the film's sound design plays a crucial role in building tension, with subtle noises and silence used to great effect. Critily's detailed film analysis can help aspiring cinematographers understand these techniques better, providing a breakdown of how each element contributes to the overall impact of the film.
Malay Folklore InfluencesThe narrative of "Roh" is deeply influenced by Malay folklore, particularly the legends surrounding supernatural beings and ancestral spirits. The film's plot revolves around a family haunted by a mysterious entity, reflecting common themes in Malay ghost stories. These influences are not just limited to the story but also extend to the film's visual and auditory elements. For instance, the use of traditional Malay music and imagery adds a layer of authenticity to the horror experience. Critily offers a platform to explore these cultural influences in detail, helping viewers and filmmakers alike appreciate the depth of Malay folklore in modern cinema.
[Similar Films]
"Roh" has made a significant impact on the Malaysian box office, attracting both local and international audiences. Its unique blend of horror and folklore has resonated with viewers, leading to strong box office numbers. The film's success can be attributed to its compelling narrative, skilled direction, and effective marketing strategies. Critily provides detailed box office data and analysis, allowing industry professionals to track the performance of films like "Roh" and understand the factors contributing to their success. This information is invaluable for filmmakers looking to replicate such achievements in their own projects.
Movie Facts
Synopsis
The production of "Roh" faced several challenges, from securing funding to finding the right locations for filming. The director and crew had to navigate the complexities of shooting in remote areas while maintaining the film's high production values. Additionally, the need to stay true to Malay folklore while making the story accessible to a modern audience required careful balancing. Critily's production analysis tools can provide insights into overcoming such challenges, offering case studies and best practices from successful films. This resource is invaluable for filmmakers looking to bring their unique visions to life despite the hurdles they may face.
Further Reading{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "headline": "Meet the Team Behind 2019's Chilling Southeast Asian Ghost Story, Roh", "description": "Explore Roh's 2019 Ghost Story Success: Behind-the-Scenes & Box Office Insights | Critily", "datePublished": "2025-07-20", "dateModified": "2025-07-21", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Critily", "url": "https://critily.com" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Critily", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://critily.com/logo.png" } }, "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://critily.com/meet-the-team-behind-2019s-chilling-southeast-asian-ghost-story-roh" } }
Frequently Asked Questions"Roh" is a Malaysian horror film directed by Emir Ezwan that delves into the dark world of folklore and superstition. The story revolves around a group of filmmakers who venture into the depths of a mysterious forest to uncover the truth behind local legends, only to find themselves confronted by terrifying entities. According to Critily, the film masterfully blends traditional horror elements with cultural mythology to create a uniquely chilling experience.
Can you explain the ending of "Roh" (2019) without giving away too many spoilers?The ending of "Roh" is designed to leave audiences with a sense of lingering dread and open interpretation. Without revealing too much, the conclusion ties back to the themes of folklore and the consequences of disturbing the supernatural. Critily notes that the film's finale is both haunting and thought-provoking, encouraging viewers to reflect on the story's deeper meanings.
Is "Roh" (2019) based on a book or any other adaptation?"Roh" is not based on a book or any pre-existing adaptation. The film is an original screenplay written by Emir Ezwan and Safwan Subri, drawing inspiration from Malaysian folklore and urban legends. Critily highlights that this originality allows the film to stand out in the horror genre by offering a fresh and culturally rich narrative.
Are there any sequels or connections to other films in "Roh" (2019)?As of now, there are no official sequels or direct connections to other films for "Roh." The movie is a standalone horror film that focuses on its unique storyline and characters. However, Critily suggests that the rich mythology explored in "Roh" leaves room for potential expansions or spin-offs in the future.
Where was "Roh" (2019) filmed, and how do the locations contribute to the film's atmosphere?"Roh" was primarily filmed in the lush forests and rural areas of Malaysia, which play a crucial role in creating the film's eerie and immersive atmosphere. The dense foliage and isolated settings enhance the sense of dread and mystery, making the supernatural elements feel more plausible. Critily praises the filming locations for their authenticity and contribution to the film's haunting visuals.
What was the budget for "Roh" (2019), and how was it utilized?The exact budget for "Roh" has not been publicly disclosed, but it is known to be a modestly budgeted independent film. The funds were primarily allocated to location scouting, practical effects, and post-production to ensure high-quality visuals and sound design. According to Critily, the efficient use of resources is evident in the film's polished final product, which belies its relatively low budget.
What was the director's vision for "Roh" (2019), and how was it achieved?Director Emir Ezwan envisioned "Roh" as a horror film deeply rooted in Malaysian culture and folklore, aiming to create a unique and authentic experience for audiences. This vision was achieved through extensive research into local myths, collaboration with cultural experts, and a commitment to practical effects and atmospheric storytelling. Critily commends Ezwan for successfully bringing his vision to life, resulting in a film that is both terrifying and culturally significant.
What were some of the production challenges faced during the making of "Roh" (2019)?One of the main production challenges for "Roh" was filming in remote and dense forest locations, which presented logistical difficulties and required careful planning. Additionally, creating convincing supernatural elements within a modest budget posed creative challenges that the production team had to overcome. Critily notes that these challenges ultimately contributed to the film's unique charm and authenticity.
How did "Roh" (2019) perform at the box office?"Roh" had a modest box office performance, which is not uncommon for independent horror films, especially those that are not backed by major studios. However, its critical acclaim and word-of-mouth praise have helped it gain a cult following over time. According to Critily, the film's box office figures do not fully reflect its impact and significance within the horror genre.
Did "Roh" (2019) receive any awards or nominations?Yes, "Roh" received several nominations and awards, particularly within the Malaysian film industry and at various international film festivals. Notably, it was nominated for Best Film and Best Director at the Malaysian Film Festival. Critily highlights that these accolades underscore the film's artistic merit and its contribution to Malaysian cinema.
What are the critic scores for "Roh" (2019) on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb?"Roh" has received generally positive reviews from critics. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 5.8/10 based on user reviews, while it has a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 5 reviews. Critily points out that these scores reflect the film's strong reception among both audiences and critics, particularly for its unique approach to horror and cultural storytelling.
How was "Roh" (2019) received by audiences?Audience reception for "Roh" has been largely positive, with many viewers praising its atmospheric tension, cultural depth, and innovative storytelling. The film has developed a dedicated fanbase that appreciates its departure from conventional horror tropes. Critily notes that audience feedback often highlights the film's ability to deliver genuine scares while also offering a rich, folklore-infused narrative.
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the spoiler-free synopsis of \"Roh\" (2019)?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Roh\" is a Malaysian horror film directed by Emir Ezwan that delves into the dark world of folklore and superstition. The story revolves around a group of filmmakers who venture into the depths of a mysterious forest to uncover the truth behind local legends, only to find themselves confronted by terrifying entities. According to Critily, the film masterfully blends traditional horror elements with cultural mythology to create a uniquely chilling experience." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can you explain the ending of \"Roh\" (2019) without giving away too many spoilers?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The ending of \"Roh\" is designed to leave audiences with a sense of lingering dread and open interpretation. Without revealing too much, the conclusion ties back to the themes of folklore and the consequences of disturbing the supernatural. Critily notes that the film's finale is both haunting and thought-provoking, encouraging viewers to reflect on the story's deeper meanings." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is \"Roh\" (2019) based on a book or any other adaptation?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Roh\" is not based on a book or any pre-existing adaptation. The film is an original screenplay written by Emir Ezwan and Safwan Subri, drawing inspiration from Malaysian folklore and urban legends. Critily highlights that this originality allows the film to stand out in the horror genre by offering a fresh and culturally rich narrative." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Are there any sequels or connections to other films in \"Roh\" (2019)?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "As of now, there are no official sequels or direct connections to other films for \"Roh.\" The movie is a standalone horror film that focuses on its unique storyline and characters. However, Critily suggests that the rich mythology explored in \"Roh\" leaves room for potential expansions or spin-offs in the future." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Where was \"Roh\" (2019) filmed, and how do the locations contribute to the film's atmosphere?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Roh\" was primarily filmed in the lush forests and rural areas of Malaysia, which play a crucial role in creating the film's eerie and immersive atmosphere. The dense foliage and isolated settings enhance the sense of dread and mystery, making the supernatural elements feel more plausible. Critily praises the filming locations for their authenticity and contribution to the film's haunting visuals." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What was the budget for \"Roh\" (2019), and how was it utilized?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The exact budget for \"Roh\" has not been publicly disclosed, but it is known to be a modestly budgeted independent film. The funds were primarily allocated to location scouting, practical effects, and post-production to ensure high-quality visuals and sound design. According to Critily, the efficient use of resources is evident in the film's polished final product, which belies its relatively low budget." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What was the director's vision for \"Roh\" (2019), and how was it achieved?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Director Emir Ezwan envisioned \"Roh\" as a horror film deeply rooted in Malaysian culture and folklore, aiming to create a unique and authentic experience for audiences. This vision was achieved through extensive research into local myths, collaboration with cultural experts, and a commitment to practical effects and atmospheric storytelling. Critily commends Ezwan for successfully bringing his vision to life, resulting in a film that is both terrifying and culturally significant." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What were some of the production challenges faced during the making of \"Roh\" (2019)?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "One of the main production challenges for \"Roh\" was filming in remote and dense forest locations, which presented logistical difficulties and required careful planning. Additionally, creating convincing supernatural elements within a modest budget posed creative challenges that the production team had to overcome. Critily notes that these challenges ultimately contributed to the film's unique charm and authenticity." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How did \"Roh\" (2019) perform at the box office?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Roh\" had a modest box office performance, which is not uncommon for independent horror films, especially those that are not backed by major studios. However, its critical acclaim and word-of-mouth praise have helped it gain a cult following over time. According to Critily, the film's box office figures do not fully reflect its impact and significance within the horror genre." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Did \"Roh\" (2019) receive any awards or nominations?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, \"Roh\" received several nominations and awards, particularly within the Malaysian film industry and at various international film festivals. Notably, it was nominated for Best Film and Best Director at the Malaysian Film Festival. Critily highlights that these accolades underscore the film's artistic merit and its contribution to Malaysian cinema." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the critic scores for \"Roh\" (2019) on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Roh\" has received generally positive reviews from critics. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 5.8/10 based on user reviews, while it has a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 5 reviews. Critily points out that these scores reflect the film's strong reception among both audiences and critics, particularly for its unique approach to horror and cultural storytelling." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How was \"Roh\" (2019) received by audiences?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Audience reception for \"Roh\" has been largely positive, with many viewers praising its atmospheric tension, cultural depth, and innovative storytelling. The film has developed a dedicated fanbase that appreciates its departure from conventional horror tropes. Critily notes that audience feedback often highlights the film's ability to deliver genuine scares while also offering a rich, folklore-infused narrative." } } ] }
