Mikhail Red’s Lilim is a captivating horror film that weaves psychological tension with gothic elements, creating a stunning visual and narrative experience.
This film is set during the tumultuous Martial Law era in the ’80s Philippines. It tells the story of siblings Issa (Heaven Peralejo) and Tomas (Skywalker David) as they escape the aftermath of Issa’s tragic act: killing their abusive father. Their journey leads them to a secluded orphanage hidden deep in the woods. This place, managed by nuns claiming independence from the Church, initially offers them shelter. However, it quickly reveals itself as a haunting ground filled with secrets and eerie horrors that captivate the audience until the very end.
The screenplay, co-written by Mikhail and his brother Nikolas, expertly builds tension and explores themes of paranoia and loss. The orphanage itself feels alive, with its unsettling wall paintings and bizarre sculptures, creating an atmosphere thick with dread. It becomes a puzzling maze where shadows and whispers hint at dark truths waiting to resurface.
As the story unfolds, the tension escalates with the appearance of a flesh-eating creature, linking the orphanage’s hidden past to a terrifying ancient evil. This slow build-up of suspense is complemented by jaw-dropping visuals. Cinematography by Raymond Red, Mikhail’s father, enhances the eerie mood with muted colors and close-up shots that transform the orphanage into a claustrophobic nightmare.
Mikhail’s direction skillfully paces the film, gradually increasing the intensity, which culminates in a dramatic and bloody climax in the latter half.
The collaboration between the screenplay and the cinematography creates an unsettling ambiance, where every frame pulls you closer to doom. Heaven Peralejo shines as Issa. She brings depth to her character, showing her determination to protect her brother while wrestling with the guilt from her past actions. Her emotional journey intertwines with the dark truths of the nuns, who are revealed to be more than mere caretakers.
Eula Valdez and Ryza Cenon deliver outstanding performances as the film’s antagonistic nuns. Their transformation from calm to chaotic adds layers of horror, making their characters truly frightening. The supporting cast of nuns amplifies the tension with their cold demeanors and unsettling presence, creating a constant sense of threat.
Lilim stands out in the Filipino horror landscape for its bold mix of gothic aesthetics and psychological thrills. The orphanage’s decaying beauty and the nuns’ ominous authority bring classic horror elements to life, while Issa’s internal struggles and the horrifying creature delve into darker psychological themes. Despite a few predictable moments and an overuse of jump scares, these minor shortcomings do not overshadow the film’s overall impact.
While Lilim may not completely reinvent the horror genre, it certainly leaves a mark. The combined efforts of Mikhail, Nikolas, and Raymond Red create a local gem filled with genuine fear and existential dread. It’s a film that stays with you, whispering the haunting fates of Issa, the nuns, and the orphanage long after the credits roll.
Rating: 4/5 ★★★★☆
Lilim is playing in theaters nationwide.
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