Viva Films’ Lilim is a strong entry in the horror genre, marked by Mikhail Red’s signature slow-burn storytelling and “atmospheric tension.” Its unsettling visuals and committed performances cement it as this summer’s scariest horror movie.
The award-winning director returns to the big screen with this psychological horror set in a seemingly safe orphanage hiding dark secrets. The film, starring Heaven Peralejo, National Winner for Best Actress at the 2023 Asian Academy Creative Awards, premiered on March 12.
During its international debut at the 54th International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR), the film received rave reviews for its “atmospheric terror and social undercurrents.”
Lilim follows Issa, a young woman who kills her abusive father in self-defense and escapes with her younger brother, Tomas. They find refuge in Helping Hands, an orphanage run by nuns who welcome them but warn of the place’s hidden dangers.
As they settle in, Issa and Tomas begin to sense something is wrong—strange rituals occur, the nuns’ intentions seem sinister, and an eerie force looms over the orphanage.
When Issa tries to uncover the truth, she realizes that escaping may not be an option.
Peralejo leads the cast as Issa in her first major horror role. Eula Valdez plays the orphanage’s head, Marga, delivering a commanding performance. Mon Confiado portrays an investigator tracking the siblings, while child actor Skywalker David makes his feature film debut as Tomas.
Ryza Cenon, who shaved her head for her role, delivers what Red calls a “twisted scene” that will leave audiences unnerved.
As the story progresses, it shifts from a crime story to ritualistic psychological horror before reaching full-fledged slasher territory. Red’s gradual escalation of suspense is impressive, especially as the bullying within the orphanage turns increasingly sinister.
The oppressive atmosphere builds throughout the film, from Issa’s trauma to the realization that their supposed sanctuary is a prison.
In general, Lilim exemplifies Red’s evolving mastery in the horror genre. The film’s smooth progression from psychological tension to intense horror showcases his adeptness at crafting a narrative that is both engaging and unsettling.