Up Next
Back to Show
Monstrum
Pontianak: The Vampiric Ghost of Southeast Asia
Season 2
Episode 14
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, you’ll learn how Islamic trade routes, animism, and the role of women in Southeast Asia contribute to stories of this notorious ghost.
Support Provided By
13:50
Since the start of recorded history, there has always been something creepy about dolls.
12:30
The SCP Foundation is wiki-powered, crowd-sourced folklore at its finest!
12:08
Is Bigfoot a benevolent beast or bloodthirsty killer? Depends on who you ask, and when!
11:49
The trickster Púca is an animal-spirit that was once dreaded across many lands.
8:32
Of all the many terrifying monsters haunting the waters of the world the Nixie stands out.
11:52
The nocturnal entity called Nishi reflects the complex nature of good vs. evil in Bengali.
13:22
What inspired Pokémon’s Monster Mythology?
13:49
Horses have inspired countless equine folklore, but none are quite like the centaur.
11:02
Advances in technology are always met with some degree of technophobia—and villainization.
12:53
A majestic, all-white horse with a spiraled horn is just one depiction of many.
9:35
Bloody Mary is less important than the ritual that summons her.
9:32
Yuki-Onna, the icy snow maiden of Japanese lore, might steal your heart or your life.