MMFF 2017 Movie Review : Ian Loreños' "Haunted Forest"

Old school horror gets a millennial twist in this MMFF entry from Regal Films.

The annual Metro Manila Film Festival promises that there's a movie for each and every one. And for those seeking thrills and chills during the Christmas season, here's one movie that you may want to check out. One of the biggest participants of the annual MMFF, Regal Films, wasn't able to get a slot in last year's festival. But now, Regal Films is proud to present their latest horror movie offering and their official entry to the 2017 Metro Manila Film Festival. Haunted Forest, directed by Ian Loreños, stars teen horror princess Jane Oineza (from this year's Bloody Crayons) paired with Cinema One Originals 2016 Best Supporting Actor  Jameson Blake. They are joined by Maris Racal, Jon Lucas with Raymart Santiago and Joey Marquez.

Screenshots from the trailer

Haunted Forest revolves Aris (Raymart Santiago) and his estranged daughter, Nica (Jane Oineza). When Aris was reassigned back to his hometown, he immediately starts on a case investigating a murder which is staged similarly to the death of a childhood friend that haunts him. While his father is away, Nica, her cousin and her local friends went for an outing where she encounters a creature of local folklore, the Sitsit. The creature becomes very fond of her and soon, weird things start happening to her. She tries to shake it off at first, but it gets worse day after day, until the creature takes a hold of her. Can Aris save his daughter from the evil hiding in the woods? Can they stop the Sitsit once and for all before it gets to claim another life?

Back in 2015, Regal Films brought us Jun Lana's shockfest Haunted Mansion which starred Janella Salvador. And because of the similar titles, I can't help but think that Haunted Forest is that film's spiritual sequel. But Haunted Forest is very different from the Jun Lana horror flick. Unlike the 2015 film fest entry which focused on non-stop shocks and jump scares here and there, Ian Loreños' film is more focused on playing with audience's emotions through the movie's characters. It doesn't rely on shocks and jump scares to send chills to it's audiences. Instead, the film puts audiences into a roller coaster ride by placing it's characters into different, horrible situations. Although the film mostly follows a typical old school horror flick, they also had surprising turns in the story that I didn't expected.

Story wise, the film is more akin to the Regal's classic horror movies of the past. It follows traditional folklore and introduces a mythical creature as it's main antagonist. It's plays out like an old school monster movie, similar to Mark Reyes' Tiyanaks (2007), Rico Ilarde's Pridyider (2012) and the successful Shake, Rattle and Roll series. The film's premise is quite simple. But because of it's simplicity, the film was able to smoothly tell the story without any hiccups. It doesn't need any major plot twists to make it interesting because the film's weirdness is what makes it unique. The film also incorporates a bit of humor into the story, making it more fun all throughout.

The film's main antagonist, the Sitsit, is also one of the creepiest things I've seen in a local film this year, alongside the demon in the library in Katski Flores' Ang Pagsanib kay Leah Dela Cruz. Although it is obvious that the monster is just a man wearing a costume and prosthetic, it sure does  look pretty terrifying. The spirits of the creature's victims also looked so creepy with their make-up. The film's setting also looks good and suited the story, particularly the location of the woods where the gigantic banyan-like tree is found in the story. The only problem I had was the computer generated effects they used in the film. For the most part, they were okay. But there were a lot of moments when the CGI effects are pretty clunky and looked so fake. This is very evident during the film's final act. I wished they just stick with using practical effects instead of CGI because it kind of distracting.

The film's cast also deserve some praise in making the film work. Raymart Santiago was believable as Aris, Nica's father. Dido Dela Paz was an unexpected but nice surprise. Joey Marquez and Beverly Sarmiento were both fun additions to the movie. Jon Lucas and Maris Racal looked so great together as Andre and Mich respectively, although they weren't given enough screen time together. I wished their characters were explored a bit more. Jameson Blake is adorable in his role here as RJ. His charm is filling up the screen every time he's in it. With those dimples, he always makes the girls in the audience swoon over him. He is perfectly paired with Jane Oineza. She truly deserves some praise for her committed performance as Nica. After her head-turning performance in the recent horror thriller Bloody Crayons, it's really good to see her again in the big screen. Honestly, she is one of the most underrated actresses of this generation and I believe that she can do more. I am grateful that Regal Films gave her this chance to star in this movie. She was really able to display her acting prowess with this role, and for me, she deserves some nomination for Best Actress in this year's MMFF awards.

To be honest, the film isn't that scary especially for someone who have seen dozens of horror movies in the past like me (as I'm already immune to feeling scared), BUT I really had a good time watching it. I must say that this is one of the most fun local horror movies that came out this year. I particularly loved the final act of the film as the main characters try to fight the Sitsit. It was so exciting and thrilling, even the audience inside the theater where I watched it were screaming and cheering. It kind of reminds me of the final act of Hollywood horror film It that came out earlier this year.

Haunted Forest is one weird, but fun horror movie that is best enjoyed with family or friends. It has it's moments of creepiness, and is a highly entertaining ride from start to finish and promises audiences a good time in the cinema this holiday season.

Rating: ✰✰✰✰✰  of 5

Haunted Forest (2017) directed by Ian Loreños, starring Jane Oineza, Jameson Blake, Maris Racal, Jon Lucas with Raymart Santiago and Joey Marquez, produced by Regal Films. An official entry to the 2017 Metro Manila Film Festival.

Metro Manila Film Festival 2017 : My Pre-Festival Thoughts on the Magic 8 entries

We're just days away from the biggest film festival of the country, the Metro Manila Film Festival. Organized by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the festival is now on it's 43rd year. The first four film entries of the festival were announced on June 30, 2017 by using the script submission method while the last four official entries were announced on November 17, 2017, completing the Magic 8. So before the festival kicks in, here's my pre-festival thoughts on the 8 entries of this year's Metro Manila Film Festival.

All of You (Romance, Comedy). Starring Jennylyn Mercado, Derek Ramsay; produced by Quantum Films, MJM Productions; directed by Dan Villegas. Three years after their first project together as a loveteam (English Only, Please, 2014), Jennylyn Mercado and Derek Ramsay are back to bring kilig to audiences this Christmas with their latest entry, under the helm of box-office director Dan Villegas (How to be Yours, Always be my Maybe). I loved English Only, Please and I'm a big fan of director Dan, plus I am also a follower of Jennylyn Mercado's recent romance flicks so this film is definitely on my list. The trailer of the film beings back all the EOP feels three years ago and I am looking forward to what their latest team-up movie has to offer.

Gandarrapiddo: The Revenger Squad (Action, Comedy). Starring Vice Ganda, Daniel Padilla, Pia Wurtzbach; produced by Star Cinema, Viva Films; directed by Joyce Bernal. So apparently, the organizers of this year's MMFF reintroduced the controversial "commercial appeal/viability" which was previously criticized  because it was alleged that the reintroduction of these old rules was made to to prioritize box-office success over quality films and to accommodate the big mainstream studios that were mostly left out last year. And so obviously, the past MMFF's box-office winners are also back on the scene, led by Vice Ganda. I don't have anything against him. To be honest, I loved his past films with Wenn Deramas (Sisterakas in 2012 and Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy in 2013 are two of my most favorite Filipino films of all time). But his other films these past couple of years were a bit disappointing. Despite that, it's been a tradition of mine to watch his film every MMFF so I am still looking forward to this one (especially because of Pia Wurtzbach).

Meant to Beh (Family, Comedy) starring Vic Sotto, Dawn Zulueta with JC Santos, Daniel Matsunaga, Sue Ramirez, Gabbi Garcia, Ruru Madrid,  Andrea Torres and Baby Baste; produced by OctoArts Films, M-Zet Productions, APT Entertainment; directed by Chris Martinez. I'm gonna be honest with you- I'm not a fan of Vic Sotto. I guess the kind of comedy he's making is just not my type. But with very talented actors and actresses like JC Santos, Sue Ramirez and Ms. Dawn Zulueta in the cast, I am very willing to open my arms to embrace this one and give it a shot.

Ang Panday (Action, Fantasy) starring Coco Martin; produced by CCM Productions, Star Cinema, Viva Films; directed by Rodel Nacianceno. A reboot of the classic adventure featuring the late Fernando Poe Jr., this fantasy flick is helmed by Coco Martin himself, marking his directorial debut. And with his experience of working with the country's renowned directors before like Brillante Mendoza, I am curious as to how his first project as a director would be like. Plus, my mom has already made up her mind to watch this film with the whole family on Christmas Day, so it's definitely on my list.

Deadma Walking (Comedy, Drama, Musical) starring Joross Gamboa, Edgar Allan Guzman; produced by T-Rex Entertainment; directed by Julius Alfonso. Aside from the entries of Vice Ganda, Vic Sotto and Coco Martin, this musical dramedy is one of the film fest entries that has been making a hype on social media with it's out-of-this-world story. The concept of the film: a terminally ill gay man decides to fakes his own death to attend his own wake to hear his friend's views on him. Based on the acclaimed screenplay (Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature 2016 second prize winner), the film is one of my top contenders for the festival's Best Picture category. This one's actually on the top of my list of films to see this Christmas.

Haunted Forest (Horror, Thriller) starring Jane Oineza, Jameson Blake, Maris Racal and Jon Lucas; produced by Regal Entertainment; directed by Ian Loreños. Being a big fan of horror movies, this one's definitely on my list. This year's horror movie princess Jane Oineza (of Bloody Crayons) lead the cast of this upcoming horror film from Regal films. I'm not sure if this is a sort-of thematic sequel to 2015's Haunted Mansion but based on the trailer, this movie looks very promising. Aside from Jane Oineza, we also get to see Jameson Blake in his first foray into horror. Plus, we also get to watch Maris Racal and Jon Lucas in their first movie together.

Siargao (Romance, Drama) starring Jericho Rosales, Erich Gonzales, Jasmine Curtis-Smith; produced by Ten17 Productions; directed by Paul Soriano. A romantic drama set in the surfing island of Siargao is defintely the perfect movie to heat up everyone's Christmas. I've seen Paul Soriano's work before (Kid Kulafu) and I must say that he is pretty impressive. It's also great to see Jericho Rosales back on the big screen, plus he is joined by two of the most talented actresses of the country, Erich Gonzales and Jasmin Curtis. This movie kinda gives me the Apocalypse Child feels and I'd love to give it a try.

Ang Larawan (Musical) Starring Rachel Alejandro, Paulo Avelino, Joanna Ampil; produced by Culturtain Musicat Productions; directed by Loy Arcenas. An adaptation of Nick Joaquin’s revered play “A Portrait of the Artist as a Filipino." One of my most anticipated films in the festival, Ang Larawan had it's debut last October in Japan as part of the 30th Tokyo International Film Festival. It has received rave reviews since then, with Variety critic Richard Kuipers calling it "a handsomely produced big-screen adaptation"... "impeccably performed and crisply photographed"... and "clearly made with the utmost love and care". This is another one of my top contenders for this year's Best Picture. From it's powerful cast (a crooning Paulo Avelino, anyone?) to it's rich technical detail and fabulous musical numbers, Ang Larawan is definitely the festival's must see.

So, which movie are you planning to watch this Christmas? What's your top pick for this year's Metro Manila Film Festival? Share your thoughts and leave a comment down below!

Featured: Jane Oineza of HAUNTED FOREST (2017)

Jane Oineza: our next Scream Queen

Jane Oineza is considered by many as one of the most talented young actresses of her generation. She have already received recognition not only here in the country, but also overseas. She won a World’s Best Actress certificate from the New York Festivals 2013, and got an International Emmy nomination for her performance in the MMK episode Manika (2012).

She had been playing supporting roles for quite some time, until she rose to fame after her Pinoy Big Brother stint way back 2014. And earlier this year, she finally had her first lead role in a movie with Star Cinema's murder mystery Bloody Crayons. Now, just a few months after her first lead role in a film, she has been selected to star Regal Film's latest horror movie offering, co-starring Jameson Blake, Maris Racal and Jon Lucas in Ian Loreños' "Haunted Forest". I had a little chat with her where we talked about her latest movie.

Source: Regal Films twitter page

Q: Can you tell us something about your latest movie, "Haunted Forest"?

Jane: Well, I'm playing Nica. My family had just moved into the province because of my dad, Aries played by Tito Raymart Santiago. There, I met my cousin Mitch played by Maris Racal. She introduced her friends to me (played by Jameson Blake and Jon Lucas) and we started out hanging out together. And that's when all the terror stars to unfold.

Q: How was it working again with Maris, whom you have previously worked with from your last movie, Bloody Crayons?

Jane: Uhm, it was nice because after Bloody Crayons, we were able to work together again. We had a lot of bonding moments every shooting day. There's one instance when I went a ride with her, like a road trip on our way to the shoot since the location was a bit far. Maris was so fun to hang out with. We still have our memories from our PBB days which is good. Nothing has changed. Actually, we became much closer.

Source: Haunted Forest Regal Films twitter page

Q: So in this movie, you are paired with Jameson Blake (thus, the loveteam Jameson). So how was it working with him?

Jane: It was okay. it was our first time working together. It was good.

Q: "Haunted Forest" is your second movie this year where you play the lead role. What was your first reaction when you learned that Regal Films picked you to star their latest movie?

Jane: Wow. Of course, i was surpised. I was shocked, because right after Bloody..., I have another work. But I feel blessed and thankful with Regal for trusting me with this project. That's why I gave my best here, so hopefully, people would like the movie.

Q:  Is it okay for you if people will give you the title as one of Philippines' horror princess today?

Jane: Taray! Grabe?! Well, nakakakilig. I mean, it's up to you guys (laughs). But of course, nakakakilig. It's nice to hear things like that from people.

Q: So aren't you worried to be typecast  in horror movie roles after your first two horror movies?

Jane: Not really. I mean, I'm happy with the work that they're giving me. And if my next projects are horror movies, then I'm good with that. I'm not really picky when it comes to projects. So if that's the blessing that they'll give me, I'm happy with it.

Source: Regal Films twitter page

Q: What should we expect from your movie "Haunted Forest"?

Jane: Well, you guys should prepare yourselves because this is sure to be a scary experience for everyone. We have a lot of surprises in store for you guys.

Q: So what is your motto in you life, in your career?

Jane: Well, I guess "Be yourself always. Be true to you, to who you are. Be patient. Be kind. And work hard. Never quit."

Q: Lastly, describe Jane Oineza in one word.

Jane: I guess, Hard-working.

"Be yourself always. Be true to you, to who you are. Be patient. Be kind. And work hard. Never quit." Jane Oineza

So that's it, folks. Let's all watch out for our latest horror teen princess, Jane Oineza, in the highly anticipated horror movie event of the year from Regal Films, "Haunted Forest", coming very soon in cinemas.

Upcoming Local Horror Movies to Watch Out This 2017!

Halloween is fast approaching. Everyone is already excited not only for the season, but for these upcoming horror movies that are proudly Pinoy.

A scene from "Haunted Forest"

The Filipino horror genre has been very lively this 2017. After the success of last year's MMFF where Erik Matti's critically acclaimed horror pic Seklusyon scared audiences and became a box-office hit, other titles soon followed. Dan Villegas, known for his romance films, tried the genre with Ilawod, starring  Iza Calzado, Ian Veneracion, Xyriel Manabat, Harvey Bautista, and Therese Malvar. Pedring A. Lopez gave us Darkroom, a found-footage film about a group of teenagers who tried to document their ghost hunting adventure and starred Ella Cruz, Bret Jackson and AJ Muhlach. Jerrold Tarog unleashed his award-winning (and highly controversial) pyscho-sexual thriller Bliss which starred  Iza Calzado, Ian Veneracion, TJ Trinidad, Michael de Mesa, and Adrienne Vergara. The said film earned Calzado the Yakushi Pearl Award for Best Performer at the 12th Osaka Asian Film Festival. After two years in development hell, the slasher horror Bloody Crayons, adapted from a hit Wattpad novel by Josh Argonza and directed by Topel Lee, was finally released. It featured an ensemble cast led by  Jane Oineza, Janella Salvador, Elmo Magalona, Maris Racal, Sofia Andres, Diego Loyzaga, Yves Flores,Empoy Marquez, and Ronnie Alonte. During the first edition of the Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino which ran from August 16 to 22, 2017, we were able to catch Prime Cruz' romance gore film Ang Manananggal sa Unit 23B which starred Ryza Cenon, and Martin del Rosario together with Sherad Anthony Sanchez' found-footage horror film Salvage, featuring Jessy Mendiola and JC de Vera. And just recently, Prime Cruz gave us a taste of his color horror flick, The Debutantes featuring Sue Ramirez and Mile Ocampo in the lead roles.

Now that we are already on the fourth and final quarter of the year, it looks like the Filipino horror genre isn't stopping any time soon. Here are the four upcoming local horror films to watch out for before 2017 ends. 

Spirit of the Glass 2 : The Haunted. A sequel to the 2004 horror film that starred Rica Peralejo, it's written and directed by Jose Javier Reyes and produced by OctoArts Films and T-Rex Entertainment. It features an ensemble cast led by Cristine Reyes, Daniel Matsunaga, Maxine Medina, Benjamin Alves, Ashley Ortega, Enrico Cuenca, Janine Gutierrez, Dominic Roque, and Aaron Villaflor. It follows a group of friends who unwittingly opened a door to the spirit world after playing a Ouija board. It is slated for a November 1 release.

Screenshots from the trailer

The Ghost Bride. Chito S. Rono (Feng Shui, Sukod, The Healing) is back with another Star Cinema horror pic. This time, it features Kim Chui in the title role as Mayen, a girl who is offered to become a ghost bride. The film, which plays with the Chinese tradition of Ghost marriage, is her third film with director Rono. The film also stars Matteo Guidicelli, Alice Dixson and Christian Bables, and is also scheduled to be released this November 1.

Nay. After his successful coming-of-age barkada film Bar Boys, Kip Oebanda gives us the gore film Nay. Starring Enchong Dee, Sylvia Sanchez and Jameson Blake, it is an official entry to the 2017 Cinema One Originals this November. Nay follows Martin, a rich, sheltered youth who gets transformed into an aswang by his yaya, Nay Luisa. She teaches him how to hunt the poor and the weak for food, in Manila, a city that consistently dehumanizes and neglects the marginalized.

Haunted Forest. Jane Oineza stars in this teen horror flick from Regal Films as a young girl being targeted by a malevolent entity from the woods. The film, helmed by Ian Lorenos, also stars Jameson Blake, Maris Racal and Jon Lucas with Joey Marquez and Raymart Santiago, and is rumored to be Regal Film's entry to the 2017 Metro Manila Film Festival.

Which one are you most excited about? Share us your thoughts and leave your comments down below!