Warkop DKI Gets Horror-Comedy Makeover as Falcon Pictures Taps Thai Master Banjong Pisanthanakun (EXCLUSIVE)

Falcon Pictures is betting big on genre-bending with its latest Warkop DKI project, tapping acclaimed Thai filmmaker Banjong Pisanthanakun to write what promises to be the most unconventional entry yet in the beloved Indonesian comedy franchise.

The production house has revealed that Pisanthanakun, the creative force behind international horror hits “Shutter” and “Pee Mak,” will bring his distinctive horror-comedy sensibilities to the untitled fourth film inspired by the legendary trio of Dono, Kasino, and Indro.

“After the success of Pee Mak, I’ve long wanted to return to the horror-comedy genre – a space where fear and laughter collide in such a unique and challenging way,” Pisanthanakun said. “This film gave me the perfect opportunity to do just that.”

Falcon Pictures has found consistent box office success with its previous Warkop DKI films under the “Reborn” banner. Founded in 2010, the Jakarta-based company has emerged as a powerhouse in Indonesian cinema, producing everything from the romantic drama “Dilan 1990” to the local adaptation “Kang Mak” — itself a remake of Pisanthanakun’s own “Pee Mak.”

For Pisanthanakun, the project represents both a homecoming to horror-comedy and an opportunity to work within Indonesian cinema’s cultural landscape. “I’ve admired Indonesian cinema for years – not only for its storytelling boldness but also for the strong sense of cultural identity it brings to the screen,” he noted.

Producer Frederica of Falcon Pictures added: “Warkop DKI is a cornerstone of Indonesian comedy and cultural identity,” she said. “Our goal is to preserve the soul of Warkop while reimagining it for today’s audiences — both locally and globally.”

The original Warkop DKI trio dominated Indonesian comedy from the late 1970s through the 1990s, with their slapstick humor and social commentary becoming deeply embedded in the country’s pop culture DNA. Falcon’s modern interpretations have successfully introduced the characters to new generations while maintaining their irreverent spirit.

Currently in early development, the film will retain the core dynamic of the iconic trio while exploring new genre territory. Casting and director announcements are expected in the coming months.

Falcon Pictures has expanded beyond theatrical releases through its streaming platform KlikFilm, positioning itself to capitalize on both domestic and international audiences hungry for Indonesian content. The company’s willingness to experiment with genre — from blockbuster comedies to festival-circuit dramas like “Miracle in Cell No 7” — suggests the Pisanthanakun collaboration fits within a broader strategy of creative risk-taking.