Not for the first time, nor the second or third have audiences of “Uninvited” rallied behind the film’s lead star, Vilma Santos, as she embarks on a riveting quest for vengeance.
Directed by Dan Villegas, “Uninvited” is a gripping tale that has kept viewers on the edge of their seats since its release.
The film’s appeal remains undeniable, drawing crowds to theaters even weeks after its debut. Just last Tuesday, long lines stretched across Gateway cinemas, a clear sign of the audience’s eager anticipation. When the climax arrives, the crowd reacts with applause and cheers — a clear sign of the film’s emotional impact.
For all its mystery, it’s the stellar performances that truly breathe life into “Uninvited.” The entire narrative — centered around a mother driven by a singular purpose to avenge her daughter’s death — unfolds in the span of a single evening. What begins as an ordinary night, filled with the usual sounds of laughter and birthday wishes, soon transforms into a harrowing journey as Vilma Santos’ Eva Candelaria fulfills her daughter Lily’s (Gabby Padilla) plea to “leave no one behind.”
But the real story takes root long before that fateful evening. While Eva’s quest for revenge is calculated and deliberate, director Dan Villegas takes care to focus on Lilia Capistrano’s subtle transformation into Eva Candelaria. Rather than bogging down the narrative with unnecessary details, the film lets us observe Eva’s evolution through her actions. We watch as the once-mousy mother trains herself and learns to infiltrate the lives of those who wronged her daughter. Her transformation from a quiet, passive woman to a determined avenger unfolds gradually, building steadily until the tension peaks in the film’s final moments.
Much like Eva’s carefully laid plans, the film’s performances are precise and powerful. Vilma Santos masterfully conveys the shift from a grieving mother to a relentless avenger. Aga Muhlach is truly abhorrent as the despicable mastermind Guilly, while Gabby Padilla delivers a haunting performance as the tragic victim. Nadine Lustre manages to captivate and leaves audiences wanting more of both her character and her range.
The supporting cast, too, is exceptional. Tirso Cruz III, Mylene Dizon as Katrina Vega, Elijah Canlas as Tofy, RK Bagatsing as Jigger Zulueta, Lotlot de Leon as Norma, Ketchup Eusebio as Jomar Maitim, Cholo Barretto as Celso Batac, Gio Alvarez as Randall Ballesteros, Ron Angeles as Mark, and Nonie Buencamino as Elmer all play their respective roles to perfection, adding layers to the film’s strong ensemble.
As Bryan Diamante, the film’s producer, shares, “Uninvited” was a journey that the entire team believed needed to be told: “This story was meant not just to entertain, but to resonate, to provoke thought, and to showcase the immense talent of Filipino storytellers. This film is a testament to the hard work, passion, and creativity of our entire team — from the brilliant cast and crew headed by our talented director, Dan Villegas, to everyone behind the scenes who made this dream a reality.”
“Uninvited” is on an extended run.
