Christopher "Kristoff" de Villa (John Lapus) was a closet homosexual with ultra-conservative parents. When he met and fell hard for Carlo (Alex Medina), his swagger and sweet talk, Kristoff left his home to shack up with his new boyfriend. Carlo's ulterior motive though was to milk Kristoff to financially support his coming wedding. This drives Kristoff to declare a curse upon Carlo. When Carlo suddenly got possessed by a gay demon, his childhood friend Fr. Nick (Kean Cipriano), a trained exorcist, was called in to help. Fr. Nick however had his own demons to fight.
By this time, we are already very familiar with John Lapus and his flamboyantly gay characters in numerous films. He dials it down a bit for this one since he was supposed to be a virgin gay guy in the closet. In any case, he is really a very funny actor, especially in scenes with his wacky close friends, Menchu, Cheng and Dra. Vida (played by Nico Antonio, Bekimon and the 2013 Super Sireyna winner Francine Garcia). He also gets to be serious in his scenes with his intolerant parents played by Odette Khan and Menggie Cobarrubias.
Alex Medina was always in character as a slacker who knew he had this appeal with the third sex. They cannot resist his languid gaze and shamelessly takes advantage of them. He seemed like he has been doing this all his life. His most hilarious scenes were those when he was possessed by the gay demon. When the priest asked him who he was and he answered, "Thank you for that wonderful question." LOL! My favorite joke of the film. Medina had the showiest role in the film and he goes to town with it. He had a scene where his head turned 360 degrees, you just have to see the crazy way they did it at their budget.
Since he was playing a priest, an exorcist as that, Kean Cipriano was serious most of the time here, except maybe for that gyrating "7 Deadly Sins" nightmare that he had. He had to underplay his part and he does well in it, being consistent and sincere in his characterization. In several of Cipriano's scenes, director Lemuel Lorca pays tribute to "The Exorcist" (Friedkin, 1973) recreating some iconic scenes, like the priest at the foggy gate, and of course, the exorcism of the young girl (played by Kiray Celis). The film pokes at the attitudes of Catholic priests against gays in Cipriano's scenes with senior priest Fr. Mar (Ces Aldaba).
A film that tackles homosexual issues is not exactly mainstream. However, the comedy-horror approach of this film might just make it click. Ever since its hilarious trailers came out in social media, this film has generated audience buzz. (I have to say though that the trailer revealed a bit too much. It practically told the whole story already and contained a lot of the funniest jokes.) Anyhow, the light-hearted spin on this controversial subject matter made this accessible and entertaining for most audiences, with most of the jokes hitting their mark. Uncomfortable to watch at times, but yes, it works. This is funny stuff. 7/10.
This seems to be an interesting movie. With John Lapus in it I am sure it's going to be fun and entertaining. Add to that Kean Cipriano who has recently proven that he can be a versatile actor.
ReplyDeleteThis would be the first time that I'm hearing about the film. The subject may be controversial but I think a lot of people are slowly opening their minds about it. I have a confession to make though, John Lapuz is the only actor in this film. Lol.
ReplyDeleteI thought horror-comedy films are corny but then there are those that can be distinctly remembered. This movie is a hit maybe because of the stars. I love John Lapus and Kean. :)
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like an amazing and fun film to watch with friends. I love that we are now more into movies that tackle gender equality issues, it really helps open people's minds.
ReplyDeletegreat movie loved it really.
ReplyDeleteI read the first paragraph and chuckled a little. Haha. It's funny. I'm sure my friend would like this.
ReplyDeleteMy first to hear of it. Sounds like a plot full of twists and turns are going on.
ReplyDeleteI think I have seen its trailer once. I found it funny but never paid attention to the other scenes. It's interesting and I'd like to watch this. Reminds me of Zombadings.
ReplyDeleteI had doubts with this movie. But I think this is one of those movies that is underrated but actually is a good movie. Nice review.
ReplyDeleteI'm already laughing at him being cursed and being possessed by a gay ghost. That is just too funny. I'm actually going to look online and see if I can find the trailer. :)
ReplyDeleteInteresting... Personally I like horror movies with scary ghosts or friendly ghosts. Funny ghosts aren't my taste though...
ReplyDeletean interesting take on the film genre which like you said, isn't mainstream! its different
ReplyDeleteKean's priest role sound like the deceptive roles of the priest in Leonardo Da vinci movie. Love to see this movie, the uncomfortable 'flavour' part makes it daring to watch. Brilliant review!
ReplyDeleteI think Alex Medina would really shine on his role here as he can go 360 degrees with his character. It looks like a really good watch.
ReplyDeleteA comedy-horror approach to such matters? This sounds intriguing. In the end, an issue can be translated and debated in almost any type of a movie :)
ReplyDeleteInteresting! A bit of a taboo topic and added elements of comedy and horror..indeed an unique mix.
ReplyDeleteThis is a very interesting story and human characters that I would like to know more. Will check it out, thanks for sharing your review.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds really funny. I've always liked John Lapus's flamboyant gay characters so this one is very interesting. And the way you describe it makes me want to watch even more!
ReplyDeleteThis movie sounds funny and light-hearted. Thanks for sharing the review. I doubt I'll get a chance to watch this anytime soon.
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