Halloween is around the corner, which is the ideal occasion to turn down the lights, grab some popcorn, and delve into the spine-chilling realm of Filipino horror movies. Here is my personal list of the top 10 Pinoy horror movies to watch this Halloween that will keep you on the edge of your seat. These movies, which range from timeless masterpieces to contemporary fright fests, promise to give you the thrills and screams you desire. As we examine each of these cinematic nightmares, turn out the lights and prepare to be frightened.
Patayin sa Sindak si Barbara (1995)
Let’s kick things off with a classic. “Patayin sa Sindak si Barbara” is a Filipino horror film released in 1995 and was a remake of the 1974 film by Celso Ad. Castillo. It tells the story of Barbara (played by the iconic Lorna Tolentino), a woman haunted by the ghost of her husband’s first wife. As the supernatural elements escalate, the film explores themes of jealousy, possession, and revenge.
Shake, Rattle & Roll” is a Philippine horror film series that has become a beloved part of Filipino pop culture. The first installment, released in 1984, is an anthology featuring three different horror stories. The film consists of three short stories: “Baso“, which is about teenagers who unwittingly unleash spirits by using a spirit board; “Pridyider“, about a malevolent refrigerator; and “Manananggal“, about a winged vampire-like creature from Philippine mythology.
I can still remember how scared I was watching the Pridyider episode. Up until now, I can still vividly recall the scene when the mom (played by Charito Solis +) was washing a cabbage and suddenly turned to a decapitated head of a man.
3. Yanggaw (2008)
The terrifying adaptation of the aswang mythology that has tormented Filipino nightmares for decades is “Yanggaw,” directed by Richard Somes. The transition of a young girl into a beast of the night is explored in the movie. “Yanggaw” stands out in the field of Pinoy horror thanks to its tense narrative and unsettling atmosphere.
It’s impossible to ignore “Feng Shui,” a film by Chito S. Roño about the evil curse connected to the Bagua mirror, while discussing the influence of Filipino horror. It centers on Joy (Kris Aquino), who learns that the mirror she owns offers prosperity but at a terrible price. The movie “Feng Shui” is renowned for its recognizable jump scares and eerie atmosphere.
Who will forget the horrors the characters have experienced in connection to their Chinese Zodiac? For me, Lotlot de Leon’s death in the movie was the most horrifying. She was born during the Year of the Horse and met death after being beaten by an ironing board (called ‘kabayo’ in Filipino) by a drunk man. Her body was thrown out of the body were she landed on bottles of Red Horse beer. The Lotus Feet lady also appeared which signaled that her soul is to be taken.
Chito S. Roño’s “Sukob” is a 2006 Filipino horror movie. The movie explores the myth that if a person gets married or holds a wedding the same year that a relative passes away or has a burial, bad luck or disaster will visit them. The movie explores the terrifying repercussions of ignoring this belief, known as “sukob” in Filipino culture.
The story revolves around two half-sisters, Sandy (played by Kris Aquino) and Diana (played by Claudine Barretto). Mysterious deaths happened to people surrounding them. Sandy discovers a sinister family secret while looking for the truth. Before the curse claims the lives of anybody else she loves, she must now figure out how to break it.
“Kuwaresma” stars the talented Sharon Cuneta and John Arcilla in a story about a family confronting their past and the dark secrets within their ancestral home. As disturbing events unfold, the film explores themes of trauma and guilt. It’s a modern horror gem that captivates with its storytelling and performances.
7. Eerie (2019)
Mikhail Red’s film “Eerie” transports us to a Catholic institution for girls only that is tormented by paranormal activity. The movie follows a guidance counselor (Bea Alonzo) as she starts to solve the puzzles of these incidents. With its tense atmosphere and expertly executed jump scares, “Eerie” presents a novel take on horror in a classroom.
The horror-action movie “Tiktik: The Aswang Chronicles” combines folklore and creature feature themes. The film, which was directed by Erik Matti, centers on a horde of ravenous aswang monsters who unexpectedly attack Makoy’s (Dingdong Dantes) pregnant wife, forcing the soon-to-be father to defend her from them. In addition to defending his love, he must defend them against a band of gypsies who have taken on the guise of Tiktik. With its unique blend of horror and action, this film offers a different take on the aswang legend.
“The Road” is a psychological horror movie directed by Yam Laranas that takes place in two different timeframes. It chronicles the disappearance of three teens on an abandoned road, followed years later by an investigation. “The Road” is a terrifying movie that will blow your mind with its gripping story and unsettling visuals.
10. Shake, Rattle & Roll 2 (1990)
screengrab from YouTube
“Shake, Rattle & Roll 2” is another installment in the beloved Filipino horror anthology series. The trilogy featured ‘Multo’, ‘Kulam’ and ‘Aswang’.
The most unforgettable episode was the last one. If you’re a ‘Batang 90s’, I’m pretty sure this one creeped you out. Portia (Manilyn Reynes) was invited by Monica (Ana Roces) to their barrio fiesta. Turns out she will be that year’s ‘sacrifice’ to commemorate the feast. Portia then finds a way to escape but how can she when the whole village has aswang residents?
I hope this list has given you a spine-tingling journey through the realm of Filipino cinema. Now, I want to hear from you. Which Pinoy horror film is your all-time favorite, the one that sends chills down your spine even after all these years? Share your most treasured horror film experiences with us, and let’s continue to celebrate the spine-tingling stories that have kept us entertained and haunted our dreams. Happy Halloween, and may your scares be hair-raising and your popcorn ever ready!
