The Act of Killing

Name: The Act of Killing
Released: 2012-11-01T00:00:00-04:00

NR 2012 Documentary · 2h 39m

After befriending documentarian Joshua Oppenheimer, former Indonesian death squad leaders reenact their real-life mass killings in the style of various American film genres. As they recreate their past atrocities, the line between reality and performance blurs, exposing the lingering impact of Indonesia's 1965-66 anti-communist purge and the unsettling psychology of its perpetrators.

Stream The Act of Killing Now

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN
From $3.49 per month

About The Act of Killing

Joshua Oppenheimer's chilling documentary, The Act of Killing, offers a disturbing look at the aftermath of Indonesia's 1965-66 anti-communist purges. Former death squad leaders, including Anwar Congo, are invited to reenact their real-life mass killings. However, these aren't simple retellings; they are elaborate dramatizations presented in the style of classic American gangster films and musicals. As the film progresses, the reenactments serve to expose the horrific nature of these events and the psychological toll that these events took on the perpetrators. The film blurs the line between reality and performance, offering a deeply unsettling exploration of impunity, memory, and the normalization of violence.

Movie Trailer

The Act of Killing Trailer

Cast and Characters

Directed by Joshua Oppenheimer, The Act of Killing features a cast of individuals deeply implicated in the Indonesian killings. Anwar Congo, a former gangster turned death squad leader, plays a central role, offering chilling insights into his past actions. Herman Koto, another prominent figure, enthusiastically participates in the film's reenactments. Syamsul Arifin, Ibrahim Sinik, Yapto Soerjosoemarno and Safit Pardede are also featured, adding layers to the narrative.

What people like about The Act of Killing

Critics have lauded The Act of Killing for its unflinching portrayal of violence and its innovative approach to documentary filmmaking. Many highlighted the film's ability to confront viewers with the uncomfortable truths about human behavior and the lasting impact of political violence. The film's unique structure, blending reenactments with interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, was also praised for its ability to challenge conventional notions of truth and representation.

Where can you watch The Act of Killing online?

VPN Streaming Option

How to stream with ExpressVPN

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is an app that encrypts your internet connection and masks your IP address, allowing you to stream securely and bypass restrictions.

Why Use a VPN for Streaming?

- Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Many streaming services are geographically restricted. If you’re traveling outside the U.S., a VPN can make it appear as if you’re still in the country, giving you access to your subscriptions.
- Avoid ISP Throttling: Your internet provider might slow down your connection during high-bandwidth activities like streaming. A VPN encrypts your activity, preventing your ISP from throttling your speeds and ensuring a smooth, buffer-free experience.
- Increase Privacy: A VPN protects your data on non-secure public Wi-Fi networks by creating an encrypted tunnel, safeguarding your personal information while you stream.

How to get started with ExpressVPN:

- Sign Up: Purchase an ExpressVPN subscription.
- Download: Install the ExpressVPN app on your device.
- Connect: Open the app and connect to a server in the U.S.
- Stream: Log in to your streaming service and enjoy watching your favorite shows securely!

$2.99 – $12.99 ExpressVPN

Suggested Movies

The Streamable uses the TMDb API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDb.

The Streamable uses JustWatch data but is not endorsed by JustWatch.

Watch Trailer

Movie Score

77%

Released

November 1, 2012

Director

Joshua Oppenheimer

Cast

Anwar Congo, Herman Koto, Syamsul Arifin, Ibrahim Sinik, Yapto Soerjosoemarno, Safit Pardede

Genre

Documentary

DIRECTV Cash Back

Offer Terms

Only valid for new DIRECTV STREAM subscribers.
Only valid once per household.
You must pay and maintain service for at least one month to be eligible.
Purchase must be completed on the DIRECTV STREAM website.
You’ll receive gift card 4-6 weeks after purchase (~2 weeks after your first month).
Cannot be combined with any other promotion and won’t be eligible if you try to use a coupon code or cash back from another site.

Sling TV Cash Back

Offer Terms

Only valid for new Sling TV subscribers to Sling Orange, Blue, or Sling Orange + Blue.
Only valid once per household.
You must pay and maintain service for at least one month to be eligible.
You must click from The Streamable and complete your purchase on the Sling TV website.
You’ll receive gift card 4-6 weeks after purchase (~2 weeks after your first month).
Cannot be combined with any other promotion and won’t be eligible if you try to use a coupon code or cash back from another site.

Hulu Live TV Cash Back

Offer Terms

Only valid for new Hulu Live TV subscribers.
Only valid once per household.
You must pay and maintain service for at least one month to be eligible.
You must click from The Streamable and complete your purchase on the Hulu Live TV website.
You’ll receive gift card 4-6 weeks after purchase (~2 weeks after your first month).
Cannot be combined with any other promotion and won’t be eligible if you try to use a coupon code or cash back from another site.