ESPANTAHO (2024) Review
Directed by Chito S. Rono
There’s a lot to discuss about Chito S. Rono’s latest horror film. As a fan of his classics ‘Feng Shui’ and ‘Sukob,’ I was a bit disappointed that the scares aren’t as good but Rono has something different to offer here.
‘Espantaho’ shows how a master filmmaker mounts a dramatic scene, how a simple scene can be an acting piece. It compensates with the film being too safe on being scary. I really wished it could go big on the scares. It could have made the uncomfortable scenes even more excruciating, it could have been bloodier and darker because the story has that option.
It may be short on scares but ‘Espantaho’ gives a satisfying performances from its three main actresses – Judy Ann Santos, Lorna Tolentino and Chanda Romero. Their strong screen presences just make you want more, even if the film didn’t go big on what the film can fully offer in terms of scares, you’re just there absorbing their jaw-dropping performances. And it’s not just the big confrontation scenes, Judy Ann Santos can give the silent, restraint performance and yet, still hook you with what her character will do next.
It’s not just the three main female characters that elevates the film but also the supporting characters from Janice de Belen, Mon Confiado, Donna Cariaga, Nico Antonio, JC Santos and to the child actor Kian Co.
I was expecting a different film. But with its PG rating, I understand that it didn’t have scares that will haunt me. But that’s okay because the film didn’t focus just on the scares but more on how to decipher a puzzle and it’s a fun way to navigate its story.
It’s still a Chito Rono horror film. It’s understandable if you feel disappointed being a fan of his horror movies but there’s more to the film than just its genre.
3.5 OUT OF 5 STARS
‘Espantaho’ is an official entry to the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival. Now showing in cinemas nationwide from Quantum Films, CineKo and Purple Rabbit. Rated PG by the MTRCB. #EspantahoMMFF