Monstrum: Pontianak--The Vampiric Ghost of Southeast Asia

9 minutes 24 seconds

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The pontianak, or kuntilanak, has long been a staple of Malay horror. In addition to serving as an allegory for the tension between traditional and modern cultural and spiritual practices, these monsters gave name to a real city. In this episode, viewers will learn how Islamic trade routes, animism, and the role of women in Southeast Asia contribute to stories of this notorious ghost. Part of the "Monstrum" series. Please note this title contains mature themes.