Film director Chito Roño’s Espantaho is one of two horror movies in this year’s Metro Manila Film Fest (MMFF).
The storyline is replete with intricate plots and unexpected twists, resembling pieces of a mystery puzzle that gradually come together to form a complete picture, or even a “painting.”
The film delivers its fair share of jump scares, too.
Espantaho, however, transcends the typical horror movie formula.
This is a film that stuns with the exceptional talent of acclaimed actresses from different generations—Chanda Romero, 70; Lorna Tolentino, 63; lead star Judy Ann Santos, 46.
They prove their brilliance on screen in the hands of a brilliant director.
ESPANTAHO: THE STORY
Espantaho unravels the story of Monet (Judy Ann Santos) and her mother Rosa (Lorna Tolentino) as they mourn the death of family patriarch Pabling in their ancestral home.
The film opens with the observance of Pasiyam, a Filipino tradition of offering prayers for the departed over nine days.
However, their period of mourning takes a dark turn when strange events start unfolding.
The occasion is aggravated by the arrival of Pabling’s legal wife, Adele (Chanda Romero), and her two children, Andie (Janice de Belen) and Roy (Mon Confiado).
Family drama ensues as Adele asserts her right to get all of her deceased husband’s properties—both the land and the ancestral house—that will leave Monet with nothing.
But against that backdrop of legal and emotional conflicts, the family has to deal with forces more sinister, even malevolent, lurking in their old home.
ESPANTAHO: THE STANDOUTS
The film carries the unmistakable signature of director Chito S. Roño.
To those familiar with his previous works—the Feng Shui films (2004 and 2014) and The Healing (2012)—you will recognize the blend of the shocking and the human in Espantaho.
With the veteran Roño at the helm, the film expectedly excels technically as well. Camera angles, effects, and transitions are flawless, leaving the audience with an experience that is not only engaging but downright immersive.
The cinematography is stunning, while the musical score heightens the sense of fear and tension, so that both visuals and sound amplify the horror, incrementally and suddenly.
Like Roño’s past horror films, Espantaho also incorporates Filipino traditions and customs.
This infusion of cultural elements, skillfully woven by Roño—in tandem with the highly talented Chris Martinez as screenwriter—makes the film relatable to Filipino viewers.
But the film, as strong as its regular elements already are, goes over and beyond: it delivers the remarkable gift of outstanding performances from all three leads—Judy Ann, Lorna, and Chanda.
Judy Ann’s portrayal of Monet, a devoted daughter and mother, may be something she has done before—but, once again, she executes this one effortlessly and impressively.
Her character’s warmth serves as stark contrast to the elements of horror around her, providing an added dynamic to the film.
Her tender moments pull at the heartstrings, and her extensive experience as an actress simply shines through.
Lorna brings her character, which forms a crucial piece of the puzzle, to life, with both intelligence and subtlety, delivering the “Aha!” moment when a deeper layer of her character is revealed.
She perfectly balances the nuances within her role, delivering all her lines with just the right intensity going from light, dramatic, or even comedic, in no predictable order.
The same praise must be given Chanda, who gives notice that veteran actors are not only solid and reliable, they are essential to delivering exactly what a scene demands.
This is totally predictable, of course, as everyone knows that Chanda is as brilliant an actress as they come.
Together, Judy Ann, Lorna, and Chanda remind us why they are multi-awarded actresses and why they command respect in an industry where the players come and go.
Moreover, the line-up of supporting co-stars is nothing to scoff at. It is impressive!
Janice de Belen, Mon Confiado, Tommy Abuel, JC Santos, Nico Antonio, Donna Cariaga, Kian Co, and Eugene Domingo—all add depth and weight to the film.
Acting-wise, as they say hereabouts, walang itulak kabigin.
ESPANTAHO: THE HICCUP
A potential drawback of the film is that it may not fully satisfy hardcore horror fans.
As we noted, viewers familiar with Roño’s previous works may recognize his signature style within the genre.
While some may find comfort in this familiarity, others may feel blasé about it. Or their expectations of the director may include expecting him to top today’s generation of horror-film directors’ outputs.
Be that as it may, this viewer is very satisfied. I was still surprised by a lot of elements that sprung up and came away amazed by the assembled acting showcase.
The showing of the 10 MMFF entries officially begins on Christmas Day, December 25, 2024.
This year also marks the film festival’s 50th anniversary.
Espantaho is produced by Quantum Films, known as Atty. Joji Alonso’s brainchild, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary.
