Is Riba Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2025)

🎬 The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Horror, Thriller cinema, the 2025 release of Riba stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into A young father, Sugi, once lived a peaceful life with his loving wife Rohmah, their two children Dimas and Bening, and his mother-in-law Lastri. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Horror, Thriller are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "A young father, Sugi, once lived a peaceful life with his loving wife Rohmah, their two children Dimas and Bening, and his mother-in-law Lastri. Everything falls apart when Sugi gets trapped in a high-interest debt to a ruthless loan shark. Under pressure and threats, Sugi gets involved in a dark ritual called “Getih Anak,” introduced by his old friend Muji. The ritual promises instant wealth, but every drop of blood spilled invites a real and binding curse. Soon, terrifying events begin to happen inside the house, haunting the whole family. Not everything that looks easy brings blessing, and even a simple choice can have a heavy price. Now Sugi must face the consequences of his own fatal decision."

🎭 Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The ensemble, led by Ibrahim Risyad, delivers a professional and engaging performance that satisfies the requirements of the Horror, Thriller genre. While it may not reinvent the wheel, the commitment to the material is evident in every frame.

The direction by Adhe Dharmastriya is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 95 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

🤔 Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Riba truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Horror, Thriller, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 5.5/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

⚖️ Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Riba explores the dichotomy of fear and discovery. The 2025 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Adhe Dharmastriya respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

🏆 Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Riba serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Ibrahim Risyad or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Riba is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.