"Class Of 2018" Movie Review: The Kids Are Goin' Crazy In This Fun Teensploitation

T-Rex Entertainment brings together some of the country's favorite teen stars in one of the most highly anticipated local films this year. "Class Of 2018", directed by Charliebebs Gohetia, and co-written with Jericho Aguado, features "Goin' Bulilit" alumni Sharlene San Pedro, Nash Aguas ,Kristel Fulgar, CJ Navato and Kiray Celis. They are joined by T-Rex Artists Lara Fortuna and Aga Arceo, together with veteran actors like Yayo Aguila (Kiko Boksingero), Adrian Alandy, Dido dela Paz (Respeto) and Alex Medina (Babagwa, Heneral Luna). The film also stars Jomari Angeles (Ma' Rosa, Hintayan Ng Langit), Ethan Salvador (2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten, Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral), Michelle Vito, Kelvin Miranda, Nikki Gonzales, Shara Dizon, Hanna Francisco, Renshi de Guzman, Dylan Ray Talon (Gusto Kita with All My Hypothalamus), Micah Jackson, Jude Servilla (Bagyong Bheverlynn), John Vic De Guzman (Seklusyon), Yvette Sanchez, Jerom Canlas, Noubikko Ray and Sherry Lara.

"Class Of 2018" follows the students of Section Zamora, the section where Del Pilar National High School’s young misfits, losers, and delinquents usually end up in. Everyone knows that anyone in Section Z has no chance of a good future. When Section Z goes on a field trip to Mt. Bantayog for an Earth Science project, one of them contracts a mysterious virus. The infected student quickly develops disturbing symptoms, eventually driving him to attack the rest of his classmates. Out of nowhere, the military swoops in and quarantines the class in an abandoned facility somewhere deep in the forest to control the spreading of the virus. While inside the quarantine zone, everyone in Section Z is forced to fight for survival. Their issues with each other arise as quickly as the spreading of the mysterious virus, which heightens the infected’s aggression and thirst for violence. Believing that a proper future is waiting for them outside, the surviving students gear up to fight their infected classmates, who have transformed into mindless violent monsters. With the additional threat of the military who quarantined them for suspicious reasons, will the students make it out alive?

"Class Of 2018" doesn't really work as a horror film. It's more of a scifi thriller infused with some comedy. Imagine "The Maze Runner" meets "Battle Royale" with a Pinoy flavor. Its premise may not be new to us since we have seen many stories about experiments gone wrong in movies, but the script from Charliebebs Gohetia and Jericho Aguado manages to be interesting enough as they stuffed it with many twists and turns. Gohetia, who recently directed the Cinema One Originals comedy film "Bagyong Bheverlynn", infused the story with effective humor that creates a perfect balance between violence and laughs. The production values were okay, plus it has some nice visuals (despite some rough CGI), particularly the playful cinematography.

But the biggest aspect as to why the film works is because of its cast. It was so nostalgic to watch Sharlene San Pedro and Nash Aguas together since I have witnessed these two grow up from those cute little child actors back then to the teens that they are now. Their acting prowess were on full display of the film. NashLene fans will also get their money's worth because of their sweet little moments together. Kiray Celis was so fun to watch as your typical mean girl/ queen bee. I don't know why Michelle Vito keeps on getting typecast as the dumb rich or mean girl in movies ("irregardless?") but to her credit, she does the job really, really good. CJ Navato was okay as the nerd of the group, though he didn't really have anything to do except to make theories about what's going around them. Ethan Salvador and Jomari Angeles (both from the film "2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten") did a great job with their roles as Nash Aguas' buddies. Lara Fortuna was a revelation as the ass-kicking fighter in the group. But it was Kristel Fulgar who stole the spotlight as the mean girl turned good girl of the class. Her character was the most interesting one among the class. Kristel's performance was probably the best in the film. Her funny and quirky portrayal added to the enjoyment of watching the film.

Of course, the film isn't that perfect. It has several plotholes, some really bad characters who always choose making stupid decisions (like risking your life and another person's for a necklace?), and those weird visions of the characters' future whenever they die. The scares also don't work that much. I also sensed that some of the characters don't feel any danger at all.

Despite its flaws, "Class Of 2018" is a pretty engaging and amusing teensploitation. And aside from its entertainment value, it's also a morality play on today's society and a critique on this generation's youth, in the guise of a teen horror thriller with lots of comedy. It has its moments of fun and thrills, and loads of fan service. It's the type of film best enjoyed with friends as it promises viewers a really good time at the cinema.

Rating: 8/ 10

 "Class Of 2018" is now showing in Philippine cinemas from T-Rex Entertainment.

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"Suspiria" Movie Review : A Different Kind Of Animal

In this remake of the 1977 horror classic, young American dancer Susie Bannion arrives in 1970s Berlin to audition for the world-renowned Helena Markos Dance Co. When she vaults to the role of lead dancer, the woman she replaces breaks down and accuses the company's female directors of witchcraft. Meanwhile, an inquisitive psychotherapist and a member of the troupe uncover dark and sinister secrets as they probe the depths of the studio's hidden underground chambers. "Suspiria" stars Dakota Johnson, Tilda Swinton, Mia Goth, Angela Winkler, Ingrid Caven, Elena Fokina, Sylvie Testud, Renée Soutendijk, Christine LeBoutte, Fabrizia Sacchi, Małgosia Bela, Jessica Harper, and Chloë Grace Moretz, written by David Kajganich, and directed by Luca Guadagnino.

To be honest, it is quite difficult to surpass or at least meet the levels set by the original film. The 1977 horror film is one of those masterpiece that still holds up and can still scare audiences even when viewed today. Somehow, I became a fan of the film. I fell in love with the film's over-the-top campiness, playful and imaginative deaths, the stunning visuals, the colorful characters and yes, the aweful accents. All of these things became the main reason why I adore the original "Suspiria", prompting me to watch the rest of the trilogy (Inferno, Mother of Tears) by Dario Argento.

But after watching this remake, I can say that this update on the Dario Argento classic is undeniably a different kind of animal. Unlike the first one which echoes Italian Giallo and traditional American slashers, this reboot isn't focused on blood or body count. Instead, it's focused on building up it's atmosphere. There are many changes in the story (the setting is moved to 1977 Berlin). Of course, it still follows the same backbone of the original with a new girl entering the dance group and the strange things that happen around her after. But as the story moves along, you will realize that this is not your typical remake as it takes a life of its own and transforms into a different creature. The ending will truly surprise you because it far more twisted than what you're expecting. Then, there's that death scene of a dancer being twisted around a dance studio that is as gorgeous as it is sickening to watch.

Chloe Grace Moretz was amazing as always, even though she wasn't given enough screen time. Mia Goth also did a great job in her role. And kudos to Dakota Johnson for being an effective protagonist. It was such a delight watching her perform around with those weird yet beautiful dances. Tilda Swinton shines as  Madame Blanc. Her restrained but eerie portrayal of the character adds a chilling touch to the film. Plus did I already mention that she's playing two other roles here in this movie?

As with the visuals, gone are the colorful palette. Instead, every frame is dark, dull and dreary. Also, a lot may complain about the film's excessively long running time at 2 hours and 32 minutes which may be a bit of a drag for some. Despite that, the story itself was pretty entertaining enough for me to keep me up.

Luca Guadagnino's "Suspiria" remake may have an excessively long running time, but its fresh spin on the 1977 Dario Argento classic will keep you entranced. It's repulsive and gorgeous at the same time.
To quote Sara Simms (Mia Goth): "It's addicting. That's the word for it."

Rating: 9/ 10

"Suspiria" is now showing in Philippine cinemas starting Oct. 31, 2018 from OctoArts Films International.

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Cinema One Originals 2018 "Ma" Movie Review: Fairytale Gone Wrong

This year marks my third year watching Cinema One Originals and  I'm lucky because the first film that I was able to catch was Kenneth Lim Dagatan's "Ma", an IWant original movie. Although not being part of the official entries for this year's roster of films (it was screened in advanced as part of the festival), "Ma" is one of those films that will surely leave a mark and will generate some buzz.

"Ma" stars Anna Luna, Kyle Espiritu, Alessandra Malonzo and Enzo Osorio with Kate Alejandrino, Glydel Mecado and Rafa Sigiuon Reyna. It follows a trio of siblings, played by Kyle Espiritu, Alessandra Malonzo and Enzo Osorio who desperately tries to recover their mother (Mercado) from death through the help of a mysterious being in the form of an enchanted, talking bush inside a cave in the woods. Their paths will cross with a pregnant woman named Cecil (Anna Luna) who is still mourning for the death of her husband. Their paths will lead them to a dark and deadly conclusion as they finally come face to face with the evil force that has been manipulating their fates to its own bidding.

"Ma" starts off slow, as it introduces two separate storylines, one following the children's encounter with the mysterious creature in the cave and the other, focusing on Cecil as her mind slowly breaks down due to guilt and sadness over her husband's suicide. There is a consistent bode of tragedy all over the film from start to finish, adding up to the dreadful atmosphere that lingers at every scene. Director Dagatan managed to maintain that somber and creepy tone all throughout the movie. Unlike most films today which rely on cheap scares, he focuses on keeping that unsettling feeling that never lets you go even if the story already moved on to the next scene. That feeling that makes you worry for some unknown reason that it leaves you paranoid. The cast also helped a lot in maintaining that atmosphere. Glydel Mercado and Kate Alejandrino also deserves some praise for their effective performances. Anna Luna is commendable for her believable portrayal of a woman ridden with guilt. The three child actors, Kyle Espiritu, Alessandra Malonzo and Enzo Osorio were all amazing revelations. Kyle in particular, deserves some praise for his terrifying performance reminiscent of Rhed Bustamante's Anghela in "Seklusyon".

It's almost like a fairytale. Somehow, you start to root for the children after all the tragedies and heartbreaks they've had. But this feeling will be tested once the film hits the third and final act. This is where things get very brutal and bloody. The film goes for the jugular with its grizzly and graphic scenes that makes Erik Matti's "Buy Bust" look tamer. It doesn't even shy away from showing its gratuitous violence and gore.

Kenneth Lim Dagatan's "Ma" is a fairytale gone wrong... very, very wrong. It's a slow burn piece of brutal and unrelenting horror. It's fucking good.

Rating: 10/ 10

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.

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.

Cinema One Originals 2017 Movie Review: Kip Oebanda's "Nay"

Ms. Sylvia Sanchez is "Nay"

After his critically-acclaimed youth oriented film Bar Boys which debuted at the first Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino, director Kip Oebanda is back. This time, he takes on a classic Filipino folklore and gives it a new, millennial spin. Tagged as a gore film, this horror drama mixes shocks with political messages and underlying themes. “Nay”, written and directed by Kip Oebanda, stars a pretty interesting cast, led by Enchong Dee, Jameson Blake and Ms. Sylvia Sanchez, together with Harvey Bautista and Carla Humphries and is one of the official entries to the Cinema One Originals 2017.

Martin's (Enchong Dee) sheltered life is turned around when he gets terminally ill. To save his life, his beloved yaya, Nay Luisa (Sylvia Sanchez) turns him into something truly horrifying. He must choose between dying or becoming a monster that preys on the poor and the weak in city where dehumanization has become the norm.

Screenshots from the trailer

The film is perfect for the theme of this year’s Cinema One Originals film festival: Walang Takot (fearless).The film’s story is not just about the plight of Martin’s character after being turned into an aswang. It also tackles very important and relevant issues today, particularly on extra-judicial killings. Though technically a horror film, Nay hides a lot of political and social overtones underneath it’s bloody and violent skin. It offers a very timely commentary on our society’s morality nowadays, particularly how we are slowly being desensitized to violence around us. At one point of the film, Nay Luisa asks Martin who is he to judge who should die and who should live. This pretty much mirrors how the people responsible for those extra-judicial killings are deciding whether it’s better if one man should just die instead of giving him a chance to change.

The film’s boasts a very powerful cast. Enchong Dee was really good in portraying the young yuppie Martin. He was able to convey a lot of emotions for his character, particularly during the time he was suffering from his illness. Jameson Blake has improved a lot since his past stint in 2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten and Nabubulok. He has grown into the craft he is passionate about. I think he should get more challenging roles because for sure, he’s going to nail them. I was impressed with Carla Humhries and Harvey Baustista in this movie. And of course, who can forget Ms. Sylvia Sanchez’ tour de force performance as the title role Nay. She surprised us with her bravura take on her character. She was magnetic and captivating. She quickly shifts from being funny to scary. It was a performance that deserves recognition, perhaps a Best Actress award.

And yes, the film succeeds in it’s promises of gore. Nay is definitely one of the bloodiest Pinoy horror films I’ve seen, with it’s shocking and brutal visuals. It doesn’t care about jump scares an instead, it’s focused on shocking the audience with it’s unapologetic blood shedding. Though it’s not as gory as other foreign gore films I’ve seen, it has enough to satisfy my cravings as a gorehound. The pacing of the film was slow, but it was okay. It wasn’t really boring because of the witty script, combining shocks and humor. So far, this is one of the best Aswang movies I’ve seen in local cinema. Also, some of the scenes of the film reminds me of the Spanish horror film REC . And that ending has some Hannibal feels in it.

Watching Nay was a great way to start my Cinema One Originals experience this year. It’s shocking, brutal and bloody. But it’s also funny and entertaining, plus it’s timely commentary on our society’s issues today is very relevant. A millennial Aswang film? What more can you ask for?

Rating: ✰✰✰✰1/2  of 5

"Nay" (2017) directed by Kip Oebanda, Enchong Dee, Jameson Blake and Ms. Sylvia Sanchez

An official entry to the 2017 Cinema One Originals Film Festival

Movie Review: Chito S. Rono's "The Ghost Bride" (2017)

Kim Chui is "The Ghost Bride"

Back in 2004, when Philippine cinema was said to be already dying, director Chito S. Rono (then known for his remake of Patayin sa Sindak si Barbara) gave Filipinos a horror film that brought back audiences to cinemas. Feng Shui (2004) broke box-office records and gave it’s star, Kris Aquino, the title box-office horror queen. The film revolves around a curse brought upon by a mysterious Chinese home ornament, a bagua. After this, Chito Rono followed this up with yet another box-office smash hit, Sukob (2006) which revolves around a curse from a Filipino wedding superstition. These films were two of my favorite al-time Pinoy movies, and they’re the reason why I first fell in love with the horror genre. That’s why I have been looking forward to Chito Rono’s return to form after a three year break from his last horror hit, Feng Shui 2 (2014). This time, he tackles yet another Chinese belief, an old tradition that is almost non-exist already in "The Ghost Bride".

To save her family from being homeless and her father (Robert Sena) suffering from a heart condition, Mayen (Kim Chiu) desperately agrees to take the offer of a Chinese matchmaker (Alice Dixson) for a huge amount of money. In exchange, Mayen must submit herself as a Ghost Bride to a wealthy but dead Chinese man. This deal, however, happens to be a deadly curse when the deceased groom's ghost becomes jealous and possessive of Mayen. It begins to take a toll on her and the people close to her heart. Ultimately, Mayen must make a choice on how to save herself, and most especially her family.

Screenshots from the trailer

The story is actually pretty interesting. It amps up the film’s weirdness as the story delves further into old and unusual Chinese beliefs. The film takes it’s time before the actual conflict starts. Instead, it focused on introducing it’s characters, particularly it’s protagonist, Mayen (Kim Chui). The film takes it’s time in building her character and making us understand her current situation so that we can empathize with her and accept the actions she will be taking. Unlike most of Chito Rono’s previous horror films (Feng Shui, Sukob, The Healing), this movie doesn’t follow the typical slasher format. It doesn’t focus on raising the body count and instead, focusing on terrorizing it’s main character. Yes, there are some characters that gets killed along the way but they’re not that many as compared to the other films by Chito Rono. This is not another Feng Shui movie. Here, Chito Rono is focused on scaring the audience through Mayen and not through contant death sequences.

One thing that I also liked about this movie is that it’s characters were people you can sympathize. Mayen is your regular daughter who is willing to do anything for her family. Any breadwinner in the audience can relate to her actions. I liked that the characters in the story weren’t all introduced just to be killed off and to increase the body count. Instead, they all have a purpose, with the exception of Jerome Ponce which I did not really understand if his character has any use in the story. I mean, I love Jerome Ponce and he’s a good actor. But I think his character should have been given something to do at least, because honestly, the story could still move forward without his character. Aside from this, I love the rest of the characters of the story, especially Mayen’s auntie Akoh (Beverly Sarmiento) and her brother, Ahia (Victor Silayan).

This movie proves that no one can still top director Chito Rono when it comes to horror. He sure knows how to scare his audiences. Although his last horror film, Feng Shui 2, wasn’t that good (the movie starts out really fun and scary but the other half up being dragging and scare-free), he was able to redeem himself with The Ghost Bride. He was able to set up some pretty creepy moments, but the best part were those nicely doen ump scares that will get you when you least expect them. Not a lot of Filipino horror movies nowadays can do that to me but this movie was successful in giving me the scares. Also, the film’s weird concept really gives out a lot of creepiness to the film making it unique and unsettling.

The film also boast a powerful cast. Alice Dixson was magnetic as the matchmaker Angie Lao. Her portrayal was admittedly over-the-top, but she definitely nailed the part. Despite a lot of people stating that her stereotypical Chinoy accent sounded awkward, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I actually loved it. I think her weird portrayal adds some weirdness to her character and I would love to see more of Angie Lao in the future, maybe a sequel to the film or who knows, a spin-off about her character. Beverly Sarmiento also deserves some praise for her bravura performance as Mayen’s Akoh. She was one of my favorite characters from the movie and her psychic visions were really cool. Isay Alvarez was unrecognizable as the monk Suan Ming. I’ve never imagined her in a role like that and she reminded me so much of Tilda Swinton from the Marvel movie Doctor Strange. Christian Bables was also commendable in his short role. Of course, I have to admit, Kim Chui was the perfect choice for Mayen. I don’t think the film could have worked if some other actress were playing the lead role. She was Mayen and she definitely owned it.

The film also deserves some praise for it’s extravagant production values. From the sets to the look of the ghosts, everything was really good. I especially loved the part when Mayen’s character went to Nepal. The temple that they’ve used as a backdrop was stunning, and the view of the mountains in the finale was mesmerizing. I also enjoyed the film’s representation of hell. Though a lot of people hated that part, I loved it. It reminded me of the works of the Pang Brothers, particularly their horror flicks The Child’s Eye and Re-cycle.

The only other thing that I didn’t liked about the film is that there were some moments when there’s to much dialogue. I mean, you and your family’s life is already about to get endangered, yet you still have to bother having a small chit-chat with them? Too much talk instead of action. But aside from that, the whole movie was fantastic. This is a movie that is definitely worth your money. It promises a good time in the cinema and it delivers. It is the best example of a Chito Rono horror movie experience.

Rating: ✰✰✰✰✰  of 5

"The Ghost Bride" directed by Chito S. Rono, starring Kim Chiu, Matteo Guidicelli, Alice Dixson and Christian Bables