Insightful Film Review: Shugo Praico’s ‘The Caretakers’ (2025) – A Journey of Emotion and Reflection

“Our siblings are the same – weirdos.”

In the world of horror, social commentary has become a breath of fresh air, elevating the genre beyond predictable scares. Shugo Praico’s latest film, “The Caretakers,” dives into this trend. It weaves together themes of family conflict, folklore, and ecology, creating a compelling narrative.

The story follows Audrey, who travels to the rural hometown of her late husband with her two daughters, Ali and Agatha. Her goal is to sell the family estate and show her husband’s relatives, Lydia and her children, that the sale will benefit everyone. But things quickly spiral out of control. Ali grapples with the reality of her parents’ marriage, which fuels her frustration. Supernatural events unfold as Lydia warns Audrey about Mayang, a powerful deity tied to the land. Ignoring these warnings only complicates the situation further, especially when a prospective buyer arrives. Tensions between the two families escalate, particularly when their children become entangled in unsettling incidents.

Praico skillfully crafts a narrative that contrasts city life with rural traditions. The older daughters embody these differences, each representing her family’s attitude toward life. The city dwellers’ ignorance of local folklore serves as a central source of horror, revealing how outsiders dismiss vital cultural elements. Meanwhile, the locals’ unwavering belief in Mayang raises questions about self-destructive patterns.

Another layer of conflict arises from property disputes and family tensions. The stakes grow when both mothers exhibit fierce maternal instincts, willing to do anything to protect their children. This complexity makes their interactions gripping, as both women are flawed yet relatable, enhancing the emotional stakes.

Iza Calzado and Dimples Romana shine in their roles as Audrey and Lydia, respectively. Their performances bring depth to these contrasting characters. However, the younger actors could have delivered stronger performances, which slightly detracts from the overall impact.

The film’s context is rich, but the pacing falters towards the end. Though the climax is visually and emotionally captivating, it feels rushed, leaving some viewers wanting more. Despite this, the overall quality remains intact.

Director of Photography Odyssey Flores captures the location beautifully, balancing its natural charm with an underlying sense of dread. The family’s home feels increasingly claustrophobic, amplifying the suspense. Editor Mo Zee maintains an engaging pace, although the uneven conclusion is a minor drawback.

Recent studies show that horror films with deeper social themes resonate more with audiences. According to a 2022 survey by the American Film Institute, 65% of viewers prefer films that explore social issues, suggesting that this trend may not just be a passing phase in the genre.

In summary, “The Caretakers” is a captivating horror film filled with rich themes and stunning visuals. It’s a title that will resonate with horror fans looking for something more than just jump scares, merging entertainment with a thought-provoking narrative.

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Dimples Romana,Iza Calzado,Shgo Praico,The Caretakers