Master of genre storytelling, director Mikhail Red believes that a chilling horror flick thrives in the immersive atmosphere of theater, not just simply a click away. “Horror is meant to be shared with an audience in the dark, with no pause button in sight,” Direk Mikhail said. He is aware that horror holds a special place in the audience’s hearts, just like romantic comedies. Horror is meant to be experienced together.
Hence, he has been searching for the right project for the big screen since he bagged best director and best picture honors for the psychological horror-mystery, “Deleter” (2022).
He directed another horror flick, “Nokturno” (2024), a narrative set against the turbulent backdrop of 1970s and 1980s Philippines, but it was shown online.
Direk Mikhail’s latest screen opus, “Lilim,” explores another realm in the horror genre. The film exhibits how much he has truly evolved in his craft. He invites theater-goers to leave the couch, return to the darkened theaters, and experience the thrills of the big screen anew.
For the first time, Direk Mikhail worked with his father, award-winning filmmaker Raymond Red, who serves as the cinematographer for “Lilim.” Raymond brings viewers into the eerie landscapes of Mt. Makiling, the film’s backdrop.
“Lilim” was shot at an actual boarding school and recreated period-specific interiors inside a studio. Every detail was intentional, from the production design to the cinematography, drawing inspiration from ‘90s cinema and settings. No wonder, Direk Mikhail asserted that “Lilim” is not just carried by one authority; it’s a result of “teamwork.” “From sound design to CGI (computer-generated imagery) to prosthetics and stunts, we are proving that the Philippines is competitive in the global horror scene,” he said. “We are meeting the international regional standards when it comes to genre cinema.”
“Lilim” made its world premiere in January at the 54th International Film Festival Rotterdam in the Netherlands, where it earned rave reviews from international critics.
Direk Mikhail had been searching for the next and right project to collaborate on, and he cannot be thankful enough that he found it with “Lilim,” with a story he also wrote with his brother Nikolas Red.
The film follows the harrowing journey of two siblings who seek refuge in a secluded orphanage, only to uncover a dark secret lurking beneath its walls. The siblings discover that the nuns are engaged in dark cult practices and confront an ancient evil.
The cast — Heaven Peralejo, Eula Valdez, Ryza Cenon, Mon Confiado, Rafa Siguion-Reyna, Phoebe Walker, Nicole Omillo, Gold Aceron, and child actor Skywalker David — showed up at The Block, venue for the screening. Heaven, escorted by loveteam partner Marco Gallo, excitedly graced the premiere night, even if she admittedly had seen the horror flick a number of times. “Please just enjoy the ride,” the actress told the audience. “Please help us promote this film.”
A review from the Canadian publication, Screen Anarchy, called “Lilim” a complete package – a blend of psychological horror, family drama, occult mystery, and slasher thrills.
“We are really proud of this film,” said Direk Mikhail. “We worked really hard, the cast and the staff who are here. With genre films, hindi siya kaya ng vision lang ng director auteur. It’s really a showcase of talent of Filipino film workers and every department needs to bring in their A-game to make sure audiences get an immersive experience. Staff and crew made “Lilim” possible.”
The film was jointly bankrolled by Evolve Studios, Viva Films, and Studio Viva. It merited an R-16 classification.
With “Lilim,” Direk Mikhail highlights why horror remains one of the most successful Filipino genres. “Horror is universal,” he said. Even sub-titled horror films from Korea or Thailand get appreciated because scares, atmosphere, and existential themes transcend language barriers. That’s why horror is one of the easiest genres to distribute worldwide.
