After more than two decades, Kapamilya actor and producer Piolo Pascual returns to the Metro Manila Film Festival with his first psychological thriller movie. Under Mentorque Productions and in partnership with Warner Bros. Philippines, Pascual stars in a psycho-horror film titled ‘Mallari,’ one of the 10 entries in the 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival. It will be shown in cinemas starting December 25.
‘Mallari’ digs into the story of the Philippines’ only serial killer, partly based on Fr. Juan Severino Mallari, who operated in the 1800s. A Catholic priest during the Spanish colonial period, Mallari served in a parish located in Pampanga. He reportedly killed 57 people, believing it was the only way to cure his mother’s illness, as she was believed to be cursed. He was executed in 1940 by hanging. Accounts also suggest Mallari showed signs of mental instability during his crimes.
Given the premise of mental instability and murder, the production reimagines ‘Mallari’ through a threefold storyline intertwined with horror. As the film transitions between periods, viewers will experience escalating terror, questioning the passing of the curse from one generation to the next.
Apart from the story, the production emphasizes the use of props reflecting the differences in each period, enhancing the film’s authenticity and timeline.
Joining Pascual in the cast are Janella Salvador, Elisse Joson, Jc Santos, Gloria Diaz, Mylene Dizon, and Tommy Alejandrino.
Directed by Derick Cabrido (known for ‘Clarita,’ ‘U-Turn,’ and ‘Purgatoryo’) and written by Enrico Santos (‘Bloody Crayons,’ ‘The Trial,’ ‘Trip’).
‘Mallari’ promises to haunt audiences starting Christmas day.
