Joko Anwar’s Nightmares and Daydreams is like an Asian version of Cabinets of Curiosities, but it’s much more. I’ve just finished watching the series on Netflix, and I must say, I loved it! Nightmares and Daydreams Netflix tells seven mind-bending stories, each a deep dive into 40 years of Indonesian history.
Though the graphics felt a bit old-school, the storytelling and integration of each episode into a complete narrative were brilliantly executed. By the end of the series, all the stories connect beautifully in the final episode. Currently, it ranks No. 6 on Netflix’s Singapore list, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it climbs higher.
The series carries a strong Black Mirror vibe, with elements reminiscent of The Twilight Zone, blending horror and the supernatural into a binge-worthy package.
Review of Joko Anwar’s Nightmares and Daydreams on Netflix
The saga begins with “Old House,” the first and longest episode. It centres on Banji, a poor taxi driver who regrets his decision to place his elderly mother in a nursing home—a decision spurred by the nursing home’s offer to sponsor her to stay. This episode sets the tone with its eerie atmosphere, although the visual effects were slightly underwhelming. Fans of “Satan’s Slaves” will find the premiere satisfying despite its predictability.
“The Orphan” shows a poor couple adopting a child with supernatural abilities to try to improve their luck. This episode looks at greed and the gap between rich and poor in a new way. It provides an interesting view of characters wanting to change their futures.
“Poems and Pains,” the third episode, might just be the most intriguing of the series. It features a writer who feels the physical pains of a character in her latest novel, leading her to a shocking discovery that ties back to Indonesia’s political and economic climates.
The fourth episode, “Encounter,” slows down the pace as a fishing village is filled with paranoia and conflict over who owns a miraculous photograph. This episode focuses less on excitement and more on slowly building suspense.
“The Other Side,” the fifth episode, pulls at the heartstrings with a narrative set during the ‘90s recession, involving time travel and a nostalgic nod to old cinema posters—an era before the advent of large format printing.
“Hypnotized,” the sixth episode, channels The Twilight Zone with its story of a father facing bizarre repercussions from a past mistake. This episode cleverly advances the overarching narrative, setting the stage for a dramatic finale.
The series concludes with “P.O. Box,” where a diamond appraiser’s search for her missing sister leads to a startling revelation that combines all the previous episodes, showcasing the series’ scope and ambition.
Final Thoughts: Why Nightmares and Daydreams is a Must-Watch
Joko Anwar’s Nightmares and Daydreams on Netflix is more than just a horror or supernatural show; it’s a powerful commentary on social issues like poverty, domestic violence, and child abuse, wrapped in the engaging format of genre storytelling. Each episode, while unique, is intricately linked to the others, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected stories.
This was my first Indonesian series, and it completely blew me away. Joko Anwar’s Nightmares and Daydreams combines social commentary with horror and science fiction elements, creating an emotionally impactful narrative that’s hard to stop watching. It may remind you of Black Mirror, but it stands out with its unique approach.
Spoiler alert: By the series’ end, the interconnectedness of the stories is fully revealed, adding another layer of appreciation for the intricate storytelling. It’s a beautifully crafted series, and I absolutely loved it.
