The suspense-drama film “The Caretakers,” directed by Shugo Praico and produced by Lino Cayetano, Philip King, and Praico’s Rein Entertainment, will be released in partnership with Regal Entertainment later this February.
The filmmakers are especially proud that “The Caretakers” was one of the last projects approved by Regal matriarch Lily Monteverde before she passed away late last year.
This film marks the first collaboration between actresses Iza Calzado and Dimples Romana, who team up in a folk-horror film, a new genre for both.
“I’m very grateful to be trusted again and again by Regal Films,” Iza shared. “I’m also grateful to be working with Rein Entertainment, with Direk Shugo as my director, as well as Lino Cayetano, Philip King, and the whole Rein team.”
After watching “The Caretakers” with her husband Ben Wintle, Iza commented on the film’s scoring, saying it matched the level of world-class horror films from other countries.
“We need to make more Filipino films so we can improve and compete internationally,” Iza continued. “We used to be the biggest in Asia. That’s my dream, and it’s possible, especially if we’re given the right budget.”
She also noted the financial gap: “Economically, our budget versus Hollywood films is night and day. I dream of us getting that kind of opportunity, perhaps with government support. But the public really needs to support these films in theaters. ‘The Caretakers’ is a true cinema experience.”
Dimples, now a mother of three, expressed her pride in being part of “The Caretakers”. “At this point in life, you start shifting your priorities,” she said. “You weigh everything. What will I trade for the time I have with my family? When I saw the vision of Direk Shugo and the film’s direction with Regal, I believed in it.”
She added, “For this genre, it’s important to note that our Filipino background adds depth to the story. This isn’t something out of the ordinary in our storytelling tradition. The Filipino family is always at the heart of these tales.”
At the recent media conference for “The Caretakers,” there were sugar apple fruits (atis) on the table in front of Iza and Dimples. The media inquired about the fruit’s significance to the story.
“I wish I could talk more about the atis, but it’s part of the mystery — connected to the house and the story,” Dimples explained. “In the past, before there were many other foods around, fruits were our sustenance. They were our life.”
Without revealing too much, Iza shared that the fruit is integral to the plot. “I always call those fruits the ‘nectar of the Gods,’” Iza said. “They’re gifts from Mother Earth, and we enjoy them. They nourish us, so they’re very symbolic of taking care of us.”
Shot in the lush yet eerie setting of a rural property in San Miguel, Bulacan, “The Caretakers” revolves around a fierce battle between two mothers — Audrey (Iza) and Lydia (Dimples) — over a piece of land.
Audrey, a city dweller, arrives to claim her family’s land, while Lydia, the caretaker, fiercely protects the land her family has owned for years.
What sets “The Caretakers” apart is that it’s the first collaboration between Rein Entertainment and Regal Films.
“Rein is known for internationally acclaimed content. They sell films abroad,” Iza explained. “Meanwhile, Regal is a legacy of a visionary woman, telling stories about life.”
She continued, “‘The Caretakers’” is a story of two mothers, and what better way to honor Mother Lily with a story like this? She saw the project before she passed. This is a beautiful tribute to her.”
Iza praised the collaboration, saying, “This is the result of a partnership between Rein Entertainment and Regal Films, two powerhouses in the industry. Regal has been making classic horror films for decades that transcend generations.”
“I believe ‘The Caretakers’ will be one of those timeless Regal films,” Iza said. “Having a giant like Regal, with its legacy, bring on Direk Shugo, with his fresh ideas, is very exciting.”
Direk Shugo is known for his 2022 Metro Manila Film Festival entry, “Nananahimik ang Gabi,” which featured Ian Veracion and Heaven Peralejo.
“I always look at the director when considering a film offer,” Iza admitted. “It’s a gamble, but when a director has proven himself, you know he can bring the script to life.”
She also added, “I know Rein is a new company, but it has already proven its worth, even winning international awards. The theme of ‘The Caretakers’ really resonated with me. I feel this film beautifully portrays the story of mothers.”
When Iza first joined the project, she didn’t know Regal was involved. “When I found out Regal was on board, I was thrilled and honored, especially after just working with them on ‘Shake, Rattle, and Roll’ last year.”
She continued, “It’s the collaboration that makes this so exciting. There’s new energy and new blood on set with Regal Films, especially after the passing of Mother Lily. Now, Miss Roselle (Monteverde) and her son Keith are taking charge.”
“Iza concluded, “We remember Mother Lily as a force of nature. This film honors both Mother Earth and Mother Lily. When we talk about mothers, we often forget the struggles and sacrifices they make. It’s important that we elevate the quality of Filipino films.”
“The Caretakers” will be released on February 26, marking the opening of Rein Entertainment and Regal Films’ 2025 slate. The film introduces new stars, including Althea Ruedas, Marco Masa, Ashley Sarmiento, Erika Clemente, Erin Espiritu, with Inka Magnaye and Jake Taylor making their debut.
