The 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) is set to showcase Uninvited, a drama thriller that boldly ventures into unexplored narratives in mainstream Philippine cinema. Headlined by icons Vilma Santos and Aga Muhlach alongside Nadine Lustre, the film delves into themes of power, secrets, and the human psyche, aiming to push the boundaries of storytelling and representation in Filipino filmmaking.
The trailer for Uninvited offers an enticing glimpse into a world of opulence turned sinister. The film follows Lilia/Eva (Vilma Santos), Guilly (Aga Muhlach), and Nicole (Nadine Lustre) as they attend a grand celebration in a luxurious mansion. What begins as a night of festivity soon spirals into a gripping narrative filled with intrigue, buried secrets, and shocking truths. The lavish setting becomes a backdrop for unraveling personal conflicts and societal issues.
Joining the powerhouse trio is an ensemble cast of industry veterans and rising stars, including Tirso Cruz III, Mylene Dizon, Elijah Canlas, Gabby Padilla, RK Bagatsing, Lotlot de Leon, Ketchup Eusebio, Cholo Barretto, Gio Alvarez, and Ron Angeles, promising dynamic performances across the board.
Behind the Scenes: A Collaboration of Visionaries
The ambitious project is a collaboration between Mentorque, the studio behind the 2023 MMFF success Mallari, and Project 8 Projects, helmed by producer Antoinette Jadaone. Directed by Dan Villegas with a screenplay by Dodo Dayao, the film brings together seasoned creatives, including supervising producers Reign de Guzman, Omar Sortijas, and Catsi Catalan, and creative producer Irene Villamor.
According to Bryan Diamante, executive producer of Uninvited, the film originated from a concept pitched by Vilma Santos herself. The Star for All Seasons envisioned a narrative that unfolds within 24 hours, focusing on human vulnerabilities and societal taboos. “This movie was a dream that evolved into reality,” Diamante shared during the film’s grand launch. “Ate Vi wanted to create a story that would challenge both audiences and filmmakers. We’re incredibly proud of how it’s turned out.”
Tackling Taboo Themes
Uninvited sets itself apart by addressing sensitive and often underrepresented issues in Philippine cinema. One such theme, as hinted at in the trailer, is the abuse of women, a subject that requires both sensitivity and courage to portray. Diamante emphasized the importance of such narratives in fostering societal growth. “As a culture, we often shy away from addressing hidden, sensitive truths. This film seeks to change that—it’s a brave story that needs to be told.”
The risk of exploring such themes wasn’t lost on the cast. Aga Muhlach, playing the antagonist, embraced the challenge with full dedication. “Aga immersed himself so deeply in the role that it was mesmerizing to watch,” Diamante revealed. “On set, he would rehearse alone, sometimes talking to himself or laughing in character. His commitment was extraordinary.”
Vilma Santos and Nadine Lustre also approached their roles with intentionality, aware of the weight of the story. “This film could redefine their careers—it’s that impactful,” Diamante said.
Expanding Horizons: Domestic and Global Reach
The team behind Uninvited is not content with merely captivating the domestic audience. They are aiming for simultaneous screenings both locally and internationally when the MMFF opens on December 25. Warner Bros. has come on board as the film’s distributor, further solidifying its potential to reach a global audience.
However, the team faces challenges, particularly in securing a favorable film rating. Diamante expressed hopes for an R-13 rating to ensure wider accessibility. “The rating will be crucial in determining how many cinemas we can reach. But no matter the hurdles, our focus is to bring this story to as many viewers as possible.”
Investing in Excellence: Technical Mastery
From its visual design to its storytelling approach, Uninvited reflects an unwavering commitment to quality. The production team utilized advanced technology, including the Alexa 35 camera and customized lenses, to create a distinctive cinematic look. Diamante shared how the investment in technical excellence elevated the film’s production. “These lenses alone could fund an entire movie, but we chose to go all-in. It’s about giving the Filipino audience a film of the highest caliber.”
The dedication to technical mastery also extended to the creative process. “We didn’t hold back. Every shot, every scene was meticulously planned to ensure it conveyed the depth of the story,” Diamante added.
For Diamante and the entire team, Uninvited represents more than a film—it’s a celebration of Filipino talent and a testament to the power of bold storytelling. “This isn’t just about making a great movie. It’s about showing that Filipino filmmakers can tackle complex, sensitive themes with finesse and depth,” Diamante said.
As the MMFF draws closer, Uninvited stands out as a film that dares to challenge norms while showcasing the best of Philippine cinema. With a stellar cast, a bold narrative, and exceptional production quality, it promises to be a landmark entry in the festival’s history. For audiences, it’s not just a movie—it’s an invitation to confront uncomfortable truths and witness the heights of Filipino creativity.
