What makes a video go viral in Indonesia? Popular content usually taps into deep-rooted cultural values, humor, or the collective love for drama and spectacle. 1. Sinetron Clips and Pop Culture Drama

Historically, Indonesian popular culture was shaped by television. Shows like Tukang Bubur Naik Haji and Ikatan Cinta drew millions of viewers, creating shared national moments. However, these productions were often criticized for repetitive melodrama and low production value. The real revolution began with the arrival of affordable smartphones and 4G internet around 2015. As data packages became cheaper, platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram Reels bypassed traditional gatekeepers, allowing creators to speak directly to audiences.

The horror genre, long a staple, is seeing diminishing returns. “While horror films are still performing well, they are not as strong as last year, and drama films appear to be gaining popularity again,” noted Edwin Nazir, chair of the Association of Indonesian Film Producers (APROFI). APROFI advisors emphasize that the key is quality storytelling and production value regardless of genre, and that careful release management—avoiding too many films released on the same week—is essential for each film to find its audience.