The entertainment industry is witnessing a significant evolution in how horror narratives are adapted for streaming platforms, particularly with the recent announcement of the Vision+ original series, Pote. At the heart of this production is actor Daniel Ekaputra, who has taken on the challenging titular role of Pote, a character whose physical manifestation requires an unprecedented level of commitment to practical effects and prosthetics. During a press conference held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, Ekaputra revealed that the technical demands of the role necessitated a rigorous daily routine, specifically involving a four-hour makeup application process before each day of filming could commence.
The Art of Transformation: Practical Effects in Modern Horror
In an era increasingly dominated by Computer Generated Imagery (CGI), the production team behind Pote has opted for a more tactile, grounded approach to character design. This creative decision serves to heighten the visceral experience for the audience, particularly in the close-up sequences where the texture, depth, and nuances of the character’s supernatural appearance are paramount. For Ekaputra, the process of becoming Pote is not merely about acting; it is a collaborative endeavor between the actor and the specialized makeup artistry department.
"The form of Pote is incredibly detailed," Ekaputra explained during the press event. "When you are dealing with high-definition close-up shots, every pore and prosthetic seam must be flawless to maintain the illusion. The makeup is the foundation of this character. I spend at least four hours in the chair every morning before I even step onto the set."
While the process is physically demanding and requires immense patience, Ekaputra maintains a professional and even lighthearted attitude toward the ordeal. "It is undeniably complex and time-consuming," he admitted with a laugh. "But once I am in the chair, I have learned to simply relax or even sleep while the artists work. It has become a necessary meditative period for me to transition into the mindset of the character."
Vision+ and the Rise of Indonesian Horror Content
The investment in such high-quality practical effects highlights the strategic direction of Vision+, a leading Indonesian streaming platform that has been aggressively expanding its library of original content. The horror genre remains a staple of Indonesian cinema, consistently drawing large audiences both domestically and internationally. By investing in elaborate production values and specialized makeup artistry, Vision+ is aiming to elevate the standard of digital-first content, bridging the gap between traditional cinematic quality and streaming accessibility.
Industry analysts suggest that this shift toward higher production budgets for series is a response to the growing sophistication of the local audience. With international platforms like Netflix and Disney+ setting high benchmarks for visual storytelling, regional services are under pressure to ensure that their original IPs, such as Pote, feature top-tier technical craft.
Chronology of Production and Development
The development of Pote has been a closely guarded project, with pre-production beginning in early 2026. The conceptualization of the ghost character underwent several iterations to ensure that the design would translate effectively to both wide shots and intimate close-ups.
- January 2026: Initial script development and character design sketches for Pote.
- April 2026: Casting process begins, with a focus on finding an actor capable of conveying emotion through heavy prosthetics.
- June 2026: Daniel Ekaputra is confirmed for the lead role following extensive makeup testing.
- July 2026: Principal photography commences, with the makeup department standardizing the four-hour prep time.
- September 19, 2026: Official press conference held to discuss the production challenges and release strategy.
The Technical Challenge: Prosthetics vs. CGI
The choice to utilize extensive practical makeup rather than relying solely on post-production CGI is a deliberate aesthetic choice. Practical effects often provide a more "tangible" fear for audiences. Research into the psychology of horror viewership suggests that the human brain is more reactive to physical objects that appear "real" on screen. By forcing Ekaputra to endure four-hour sessions, the production ensures that the character’s movements, facial expressions, and reactions are captured in real-time, resulting in a more authentic performance that CGI often struggles to replicate in budget-conscious productions.
This approach, however, places a significant burden on the shooting schedule. In a typical 12-hour production day, four hours are dedicated exclusively to the transformation process. This necessitates a highly efficient directing and lighting crew who can maximize the remaining eight hours of filming. The production team for Pote has reportedly adjusted their shooting schedule to accommodate these requirements, ensuring that Ekaputra remains fresh and focused despite the initial exhaustion of the makeup process.
Economic and Industry Implications
The production of Pote reflects broader trends in the Indonesian media landscape. As the streaming market matures, the cost of production has risen in tandem with the demand for quality. The allocation of funds toward specialized makeup artists—professionals who are highly skilled in silicone application, painting, and textile integration—represents a growing sub-sector of the Indonesian creative economy.
Furthermore, the focus on a single iconic "monster" character like Pote is a strategy often employed to build a franchise. If the series achieves commercial success, the character of Pote could become a staple of Indonesian pop culture, similar to figures from classic horror folklore. By grounding this character in a rigorous, detail-oriented performance by Ekaputra, the studio is betting on the long-term viability of the brand.
Reactions and Expectations
The initial reception to the character design from industry insiders has been largely positive. Critics have noted that in an age where digital manipulation is the norm, seeing an actor commit to such a grueling physical process is a testament to their dedication to the craft.
"It is rare to see this level of commitment in a series format," noted one industry commentator following the press conference. "Often, shows will cut corners by using digital masks or limited lighting to hide imperfections. The fact that the Pote production team is openly discussing the four-hour makeup window suggests they are confident in the quality of their work and are prioritizing the audience’s visual experience."
As the series prepares for its premiere, the focus remains on whether the narrative substance will match the visual spectacle. For Daniel Ekaputra, the challenge is twofold: maintaining the character’s physical presence through the heavy prosthetics while simultaneously delivering a performance that resonates with viewers. The integration of his acting with the technical artistry of the makeup team will likely be the primary metric by which the show’s success is judged.
Conclusion: A New Standard for Horror
As the Indonesian streaming market continues to diversify, the success of projects like Pote will likely hinge on the balance between high-concept production and authentic performance. The willingness of actors like Daniel Ekaputra to endure the physical toll of such roles signals a maturing industry that is increasingly willing to invest in the nuances of visual storytelling. Whether the four-hour transformation yields the intended results will be determined upon the series’ release, but the production has already succeeded in generating significant buzz through its dedication to the craft of horror.
The upcoming launch of Pote stands as a marker for the current state of local digital content—ambitious, technically focused, and increasingly reliant on the synergy between the performer and the technical production team. For viewers, the result promises a viewing experience that feels as grounded as it is unsettling, marking a new chapter in the ongoing evolution of horror on Indonesian streaming platforms.
