Ian Veneracion (left) and Heaven Peralejo
(We are running this guide to help you plan your holiday movie-viewing activity. The 48th Metro Manila Film Festival, or MMFF, runs from Dec. 25 to Jan. 7, 2023.)
Written and directed by Shugo Praico; stars Ian Veneracion, Heaven Peralejo and Mon Confiado; produced by Rein Entertainment
This suspense-thriller flick follows the toxic love affair between Chief (Ian), a corrupt police officer, and Me-Ann (Heaven), a sugar baby who willingly endures the former’s abusive nature in exchange for financial gain.
One night, the two meet in a secluded mansion that has turned into their love nest of sorts. However, what was supposed to be a passionate rendezvous turns into a nightmare—a manic fight for survival, after a mysterious intruder (Mon) trespasses on their hideout.
“All the events in the movie happen only in one night. The three characters share a mysterious connection and their real personalities will unravel as the story progresses. It’s a cautionary tale about facing the consequences of your choices in life… The challenge for me is coming up with something new for this genre. I want something that has a message and is relatable—not just something that scares people,” said Praico, who has always dreamed of being part of the MMFF.
“There’s always this hope of entering the festival. I have been watching MMFF movies since I was kid, wishing I could be part of it one day,” he said.
“When it was announced that we made it in, we got so excited. It motivated us even more on the set, knowing that more people will be able to see the film.”