From Regal Entertainment, the studio behind the country’s most successful horror franchise, “Shake Rattle and Roll”, and director Derick Cabrido, known for “Mallari,” “Tuos,” and “Clarita,” comes a new kind of horror film, “Untold.”
Delving into the world of journalism, “Untold” offers a different kind of thrill. According to Cabrido, this project presented a unique challenge compared to his previous horror works.
“Iba ang pressure ng ‘Untold.’ it’s not the same pressure sa ‘Mallari’ and ‘Clarita.’ Ang raming component na you really have to be careful of kasi it might be, political ba siya? Ang horror kasi ngayon, nag-evolve, for example, right after ilabas sa ‘Smile’ or ‘Evil Deadly Rise’ or ‘Heriditary’ meron ng component of social commentary, pumapasok na ang politics. So paano natin sasabayan? Nung ginawa namin ‘yung ‘Untold’ we made sure na malinaw ang message ng film,” Cabrido explained.
The award-winning director also praised Regal for taking a stand with this film.
“It’s one of those things na nagulat ako for Regal because they’re willing to risk, to take a stand for this kind of material kasi meron at meron masasabi. May ikokomentaryo,” he said.
With a P70 million-price tag, Regal didn’t scrimp on budget for the film either. Specialized cameras and several locations were necessary to bring the vision to life.
“Mahal. There were a lot of jump scares. The movie’s really big and expensive,” said Regal Entertainment CEO Roselle Monteverde, “Pero nung pinapanood naman namin, they really liked it.”
The inspiration for “Untold” comes from Cabrido’s background in public affairs and documentary work. He and Regal’s Roselle Monteverde conceptualized a story that intertwines social commentary, reflecting contemporary issues and based on actual events.
Keith Monteverde, Regal’s executive vice president, explained, “What sparked Derick and my mom’s interest was exploring the world of journalism and finding the right backdrop for it. It’s not about fake news, but about how journalism has evolved over time, with its pros and cons.”
Keith is optimistic about the project, which will not only be enjoyed by local audiences but will also screen internationally in the US, Canada, Guam,and select locations in Asia.
“We’ve partnered with ABS-CBN International and The Filipino Channel, among others. When we showcased ‘Untold’ at the Hong Kong International Film and TV Market, it generated a lot of interest,” he said. “We’re always looking for opportunities to collaborate with ABS-CBN. Given the long history between ABS and Regal, this could hopefully be the first of many partnerships. We want to share Filipino talent with the world.”
“Untold” boasts several standout features.
“First, the film feels grand, which is exactly what we wanted. That’s why the budget was so high. Of course, Jodi’s acting is a big draw. We also aimed to create a true Asian horror experience, from start to finish. This film delivers, with jump scares, psychological horror, and even creatures and monsters. It blends multiple horror concepts together,” said Keith.
Jodi Sta. Maria plays fearless journalist, Vivian Vera, whose past falsehoods catch up with her. She was a real trouper, praised Cabrido. He related that Jodi got on a harness as she is seen falling from the fourth floor of a building. She had to waddle in murky waters and creep through mud that has frogs and wriggly, squiggly things – in the dark!
“Claustrophobic si Jodi. And she’s afraid of the dark. But She did it all without complaints,” said the director.
“Sobrang game talaga siya na gawin ang mga bagay tapos ang hirap ng shoot namin, kasi uulan, sisikat ang araw. Paiba-iba ang panahon. May time na binaha ang set, nag-iba ang set. Kaya ang hirap talaga.
Jodi Sta. Maria is joined by a talented cast, including Gloria Diaz, Joem Bascon, Juan Karlos, Mylene Dizon, Kaori Oinuma, Sarah Edwards, and Lianne Valentin.
“Untold” received was given by MTRCB an R-13 without cuts. It unreels in theaters on April 30.
