It’s a return to horror for Kim Chiu, star of scary films such as “The Ghost Bride,” “The Healing,” “U-Turn.” The actress is in Obra Cinema’s trilogy “Huwag Kang Lalabas,” an entry in the 2021 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).
Kim has been very fortunate that in spite of the pandemic, projects have been pouring in.
Last year, she got a lot of flak because of her “bawal lumabas” lockdown statement, but instead of becoming negatively affected by the criticisms, she decided to turn “bawal lumabas” into a song, and now, she stars in a movie that has a similar theme.
“Huwag Kang Lalabas” is a three-in-one treat, featuring top-caliber talents in the episodes: “Bahay,” “Kumbento,” and “Hotel.” “Kumbento” is set in the 1950s, “Bahay” is set in the ‘80s and “Hotel” is set in present time. It is directed by Adolf Borinaga Alix, Jr.
Kim stars in the “Hotel” episode with Brenda Mage, Donna Carriaga, Tina Paner, Jameson Blake and Allan Paule. In it, she stars as a returning domestic worker who brings home a unique memento from Japan.
“As an OFW who goes through quarantine due to the pandemic, Kim has a very relatable character, especially so among those who have experienced lockdown,” said Alix.
“Kim excels in horror,” he continued. “The twist is her episode is something to watch for.”
Aside from getting a lot of projects during the pandemic, Kim also had a lot of learnings.
“The pandemic changed me,” she said at the movie’s press con.
She said she has become more confident, more sure of herself, and also more discerning on who to listen to. Because of all the bashing she received on social media, she has learned to choose who to listen to and who to believe.
Her stint on the Kapamilya noontime program, “It’s Showtime,” where she is a regular co-host, has done her good, especially because she has discovered how it is to speak in front of a live audience.
“Konti lang ang script namin dun,” was how she described it.
She said she still gets a lot of negative reaction, but there are a lot more positive reviews.
“Mas marami pala ang natutuwa sa akin,” she said.
It’s true how all the negativity thrown at her helped polish her skill and make her a better host, actress, vlogger, and person, just as how a dark incident such as a ghost is turned into a guide in Kim’s “Hotel” episode.
“Huwag Kang Lumabas” also features, Aiko Melendez, Beauty Gonzales, Bembol Roco, Dave Bornea, Soliman Cruz, Joaquin Domagoso, Matet de Leon and Elizabeth Oropesa. It starts its MMFF run on December 25.
