It follows a familiar storyline—a grieving mother, portrayed by Vilma Santos, sets out to avenge the death of her daughter.
But there’s nothing ordinary about its execution.
From start to finish, it’s riveting.
Every line is delivered with precision, each movement executed masterfully, and all emotions are so intense that I find myself wide awake throughout the movie.
UNINVITED: THE MAIN CAST
I’ve seen many remarkable performances from Vilma Santos, but this feels like the culmination of all her finest acting moments.
Perhaps it strikes a deeper chord because I’m also a mother, but Vilma’s portrayal of Lilia/ Eva Candelaria left me absolutely in awe.
Her pain and sadness are palpable. Her pent-up emotions are so carefully restrained that when the moment calls for an explosive outburst, the effect is devastatingly powerful.
Nadine Lustre mesmerizes.
Her presence is captivating, and her fluent English radiates the sophistication of Fallon Carrington from Dynasty drama series.
Just as compelling is the gradual development of her character, Nicole, the daughter of the main antagonist.
Aga Muhlach wasn’t bluffing when he said, “Kakaibang Aga ang mapapanood niyo rito.”
Indeed, as Guilly Vega, he gives a performance like never seen before.
Surrounded by all the antagonists, he eclipses them all with his madness and wickedness.
Watching him feels like witnessing Al Pacino in the 1997 Hollywood film Devil’s Advocate.
The rest of the ensemble cast—Mylene Dizon, Lotlot de Leon, Nonie Buencamino, Elijah Canlas, Gabby Padilla, RK Bagatsing, Gio Alvarez, Cholo Barretto, Ketchup Eusebio, even the relatively newbie Ron Angeles—each has shining moments in the film.
UNINVITED: THE VERDICT
Director Dan Villegas leaves no stone unturned.
He delivers a storyline everyone can embrace, performances worth talking about, and a cast worthy of praise.
Writer Dodo Dayao crafts dialogues so well it will not suprise if they turn into popular memes or catchphrases.
The musical score deserves a standing ovation. It heightens my senses throughout the film and, at times, leaves my heart pounding.
Save for the mysterious character played by Tirso Cruz, every detail in this film is thoroughly explained.
Make sure to stay until the end of the credits for a crucial revelation.
The movie is predictable, yes. But as a revenge story, that’s expected—even if it initially hints at being a hardcore crime thriller.
I do feel the final exchange between Vilma and Nadine—while impressive—could have been trimmed for a stronger impact.
There are also minor hiccups—such as Lily’s (Gabby Padilla) birthdate on her grave marker, though I might have just misread it.
But overall, Uninvited is a gripping masterpiece worthy of the four rounds of applause it received during its world premiere held on December 23, 2024.
Whether you’re looking to release bottled-up emotions or simply need an escape, this film delivers—and it’s so f*uckin’ good.
The 50th Metro Manila Film Festival officially opens on Christmas Day, December 25, with 10 films to be shown simultaneously nationwide.
