Jakarta, CNN Indonesia – As the weekend of Friday, July 24, 2026, approaches, moviegoers are presented with a robust and diverse selection of cinematic offerings, spanning various genres and origins. From high-octane martial arts epics to introspective psychological thrillers, and from socially conscious action dramas to chilling local horror, cinemas nationwide are set to captivate audiences with a fresh slate of films. Among the most anticipated releases are Ip Man: Kung Fu Legend, a continuation of the revered martial arts saga, and The Eyes, a gripping psychological thriller from South Korea. This weekend’s lineup underscores the vibrant global and local film industries, catering to a wide spectrum of tastes and preferences.
The Enduring Legacy of Ip Man: Ip Man: Kung Fu Legend
Leading the charge in the action genre is Ip Man: Kung Fu Legend, a highly anticipated sequel building upon the narrative established in Ip Man: Kung Fu Master (2019). Set against the tumultuous backdrop of 1950s Hong Kong, the film delves into a period of significant social and political upheaval. The narrative focuses on Ip Man’s unwavering commitment to justice, particularly his defense of the working class against the oppressive alliance of British traders and Chinese Triad organizations. These powerful entities, driven by avarice, systematically dismantle factories and exploit laborers, showing little regard for the welfare of the common people.
Ip Man’s resolute opposition to these injustices places him in direct conflict with formidable forces, leading to a series of escalating confrontations. The film’s plot intensifies when Ip Man is falsely accused of murder and subsequently imprisoned. Within the confines of the prison walls, he faces a new array of life-threatening traps and challenges orchestrated by the Triads, testing his martial arts prowess and moral fortitude to their limits. This installment promises to deliver the intricate fight choreography and compelling storytelling that have become synonymous with the Ip Man franchise, while also exploring themes of societal inequality, corruption, and the fight for dignity.
Produced by Beijing Huiyong Film and Television Media Co., Ip Man: Kung Fu Legend continues a cinematic tradition that has garnered immense international acclaim. The original Ip Man film series, starring Donnie Yen, revitalized interest in Wing Chun kung fu and the historical figure of Ip Man, grandmaster of Bruce Lee. These films are not merely martial arts spectacles; they often weave in profound narratives about Chinese national identity, resistance against foreign aggression, and the preservation of cultural heritage. The 1950s Hong Kong setting is particularly resonant, reflecting a period of significant geopolitical shifts and the complex interplay between colonial powers and local criminal syndicates. This historical context adds a layer of depth to the action, making Ip Man’s struggles against both foreign exploitation and internal corruption feel all the more significant. The film is rated R13, suitable for audiences aged 13 and above, indicating its broad appeal while containing elements of violence typical of the genre. Industry analysts suggest that the continued fascination with the Ip Man character, combined with high production values, positions Ip Man: Kung Fu Legend as a strong contender for the weekend box office, particularly among fans of historical action and martial arts cinema.
The K-Wave’s Cinematic Surge: "Wind Up" and "The Eyes"
South Korean cinema continues its global ascendancy, offering two distinct yet equally compelling features this weekend: the youth drama Wind Up and the psychological thriller The Eyes. These releases exemplify the breadth and sophistication of the Korean film industry, which has successfully captivated international audiences with its unique storytelling and production quality.
Wind Up: Idols on the Big Screen
Wind Up brings the burgeoning trend of K-pop idols transitioning to acting to the forefront, starring NCT’s Jeno and Jaemin. The film centers on Woo-jin (Jeno), a high school baseball pitcher endowed with extraordinary speed, whose promising career is threatened by a debilitating condition known as "the yips." This psychological affliction causes athletes to suddenly lose control over their motor skills during crucial moments, particularly under pressure. As coaches and teammates begin to lose faith in Woo-jin’s ability, a mysterious transfer student named Tae-hee (Jaemin) enters his life, offering a new dynamic and potential path forward.
The casting of Jeno and Jaemin, members of the globally popular K-pop group NCT, is a strategic move designed to attract a vast fanbase. K-pop idols possess immense star power, and their ventures into acting often generate significant buzz and box office success, capitalizing on their existing loyal following. Wind Up is expected to resonate particularly with younger demographics who appreciate narratives centered on personal struggle, mentorship, and the pursuit of dreams, all set within a contemporary youth context. The film’s R13 rating makes it accessible to a wide teenage audience. Critics anticipate that Wind Up will not only appeal to NCTzens (NCT fans) but also draw in sports drama enthusiasts, offering a fresh take on overcoming psychological barriers in competitive environments. The film’s exploration of the yips also provides a fascinating look into the mental aspects of elite performance, adding a layer of psychological depth to the sports drama genre.
The Eyes: A Dive into Psychological Thrills
Shifting gears dramatically, The Eyes offers a darker, more introspective experience as a psychological thriller. The film delves into the unsettling life of Park Seo-jin (Shin Min-ah), a photographer who gradually begins to experience a mysterious and severe degradation of her eyesight. This ocular affliction is not isolated, affecting her and her siblings, suggesting a deeper, perhaps hereditary or supernatural, cause. As Seo-jin’s vision deteriorates, plunging her into increasing darkness and vulnerability, she finds herself tormented by Kim Hyeon-min (Lee Seung-ryong), an obsessive stalker whose fixation intensifies with her declining state.
Korean psychological thrillers have carved out a significant niche in the global cinematic landscape, celebrated for their intricate plots, intense suspense, and profound exploration of the human psyche. Films like Parasite and Oldboy have demonstrated the genre’s capacity for critical acclaim and commercial success. The Eyes is poised to contribute to this legacy, offering a narrative that combines sensory deprivation with the terror of relentless pursuit. Shin Min-ah, a respected actress known for her versatility across genres, is expected to deliver a nuanced performance as Seo-jin, portraying the escalating fear and desperation of a woman losing her most vital sense while under threat. The film’s D17 rating indicates mature themes and intense psychological content, targeting an adult audience appreciative of complex, unsettling narratives. Film critics have noted that the film’s premise, intertwining physical impairment with psychological terror, offers a unique take on the stalker thriller, promising a visceral and thought-provoking experience. The exploration of a shared family affliction adds a layer of mystery and dread, hinting at deeper secrets or curses that could be at play.
Indonesian Cinema’s Diverse Offerings: Action and Horror
The Indonesian film industry continues its impressive growth trajectory, presenting two compelling local productions this weekend: the action-packed Leave No One Behind (L.N.O.B) and the culturally resonant horror film Sihir Tanah Kubur. These films showcase the industry’s ability to produce both socially relevant narratives and popular genre fare, reflecting the unique cultural fabric of the archipelago.
Leave No One Behind (L.N.O.B): Tackling Social Issues with Action
Leave No One Behind (L.N.O.B) is an Indonesian action film that intertwines thrilling sequences with a critical social commentary on human trafficking. The story follows Suwardi (Suwardi Becak Lawu), an Assistant Commissioner of Police, who relocates from Jakarta to his hometown of Garut. His transfer is not merely a change of scenery but a mission; he is tasked with leading a Human Trafficking Task Force to combat the pervasive issue of abduction and human exploitation. What begins as a hopeful return to his roots quickly devolves into a nightmare when his own niece, Lilis (Cinta Kharisma), becomes a victim of the very criminal enterprise he is sworn to dismantle.
Plagued by profound guilt and facing intense conflict with Lilis’s father, Asep (Iyang Darmawan), Suwardi assembles a specialized team. Their objective: to dismantle the largest human trafficking network in West Java, led by the ruthless Rando (Macho Hungan). The film stars a mix of seasoned actors and emerging talents, including Yatie Surachman, whose presence adds gravitas. L.N.O.B aims to be more than just an action spectacle; it endeavors to shed light on the grim realities of human trafficking, a persistent global issue, while delivering an engaging and fast-paced narrative. The D17 rating targets an adult audience, ensuring the film can tackle its sensitive subject matter with appropriate depth and realism. Local film enthusiasts and human rights advocates anticipate that L.N.O.B will not only entertain but also stimulate public discourse on the critical need to combat organized crime and protect vulnerable individuals. The film’s setting in Garut provides a specific regional context, grounding the universal issue of trafficking in a relatable Indonesian locale.
Sihir Tanah Kubur: Local Folklore Meets Modern Horror
Indonesia’s consistent appetite for horror films is once again met with Sihir Tanah Kubur (Magic of the Burial Ground), a feature that draws heavily from local folklore and supernatural beliefs. The film centers on Ustadz Yusuf (Ariyo Wahab), a respected religious leader in his village, whose family is thrown into disarray following the death of his mother. The conflict escalates when his younger brother, Ashar (Revaldo), unilaterally decides to relocate their mother’s grave, claiming to fulfill a mysterious last wish. This act creates "Makam Wurung," an empty grave site, which is widely believed in local superstition to invite a potent curse.
Following the creation of Makam Wurung, the village is plunged into a series of inexplicable and terrifying events, defying logical explanation. The film taps into a rich vein of Indonesian horror, which frequently blends supernatural elements with local traditions, religious beliefs, and familial drama. Actors Ariyo Wahab and Revaldo are expected to deliver performances that capture the escalating fear and moral dilemmas faced by their characters. The D17 rating indicates that the film will explore mature themes and deliver intense scares, catering to an adult audience that appreciates sophisticated horror narratives rooted in cultural mythologies. Indonesian horror films have consistently performed well at the local box office, often outperforming international blockbusters due to their cultural relevance and ability to tap into shared anxieties and superstitions. Sihir Tanah Kubur is anticipated to be another success in this genre, offering a chilling experience that is deeply embedded in the local psyche. The concept of "Makam Wurung" itself is a powerful cultural symbol, embodying fears of disrespecting the dead and inviting supernatural retribution, making the film particularly resonant for Indonesian audiences.
Industry Outlook and Audience Reception
The diverse film slate for this weekend, July 24, 2026, reflects a robust and dynamic global cinema landscape. Industry observers are keenly watching how these varied offerings will perform at the box office. The presence of a new Ip Man film is expected to draw in martial arts aficionados and action fans, continuing a successful franchise. The inclusion of Wind Up and The Eyes highlights the sustained influence of the Korean Wave, demonstrating how K-pop idols can drive cinematic interest and how compelling psychological thrillers from South Korea continue to find global audiences. Meanwhile, the Indonesian productions, Leave No One Behind (L.N.O.B) and Sihir Tanah Kubur, underscore the strength and versatility of the domestic film industry, catering to local tastes while addressing both contemporary social issues and time-honored supernatural lore.
Film distributors and cinema operators anticipate a strong turnout, driven by the appeal of familiar franchises, the star power of K-pop idols, and the cultural resonance of local stories. The clear age ratings (R13 for general teen audiences and D17 for mature viewers) help in segmenting the market, ensuring that each film reaches its intended demographic. This strategic programming, offering a blend of international blockbusters and local favorites, is crucial for sustaining audience engagement in the post-pandemic era. Analysts note that the current trend favors diverse content, allowing cinemas to attract a broader demographic rather than relying on a single tentpole release. The success of these films will not only contribute to their respective production companies but also reinforce the health and creative vitality of the global film ecosystem, proving that compelling storytelling, regardless of origin, continues to be a powerful draw for moviegoers worldwide. This weekend’s releases are a testament to cinema’s enduring power to entertain, provoke thought, and reflect the myriad aspects of human experience across different cultures.
