REEL DEAL: Ang Manananggal Sa Unit 23B REVIEW

We have seen so many mananangal movies which are a mix of good and bad films. And despite the popularity of the winged pinoy monster, the film adaptations would be too light for a organ eating aswang, but I just saw ANG MANANANGGAL SA UNIT 23B which stars Ryza Cenon and Martin Del Rosario and one of the films featured for QCinema.

As part of QCinema, it also joins the roster which included films Patay Na Si Jesus with Jacklyn Jose and Hinulid with Nora Aunor. As the festival runs on a limited time and cinemas, it drew attention with fans watching the film as well as getting good reviews from film critics.

Personally, I don't have high expectations for the film given that it is a monster movie, and it has limited budget which I thought the effects will be cheaply done, but I was wrong.

First the movie had an interesting feel with the first few minutes, it was going to a romcom phase introducing the characters of Jewel and Nico, however there are some hints on what lies ahead in the story. Then it becomes more dark and violent thereafter. Ryza made a bold statement with the weird yet erotic role, however she clarifies that this does not mean to go full on sexy for future films. Martin Del Rosario is also interesting as the literal boy next door with a little twist, add Vangie Labalan as Nico's Grandmother made the entertainment package. 

I love the most about the film was the cinematography, music and effects. They elevated the new feel for Philippine cinema which delivers the message and details without exaggerating. Though it can be also merit a sequel, I say it is excellent in its own way.

Diected by Prime Cruz, produced by Jun Lana, Perci Intalan, scriptwriter Jen Chuaunsu, director of photography Tey Clamor, production designer Nestor Abrogena, and editor: Galileo Te.

Ang Manananggal Sa Unit 23B stars Ryza Cenon, Martin del Rosario, Cholo Barretto, Vangie Labalan.  Screening Schedules are as follows:

• 10/15 Sat 7:00P Gateway Cineplex 2
• 10/17 Mon 8:30P Robinsons Movieworld Galleria 7
• 10/18 Tue 8:30P Trinoma Mall Cinema 1
• 10/19 Wed 3:30P Gateway Cineplex 1
• 10/19 Wed 6:00P Robinsons Movieworld Galleria 7
• 10/21 Fri 1:30P UP Town Center
• 10/21 Fri 3:30P Trinoma Mall Cinema 1
• 10/21 Fri 6:00P Gateway Cineplex 1
• 10/21 Fri 6:30P Robinsons Movieworld Galleria 8

Deliberation time kids! 

Show summary in 3 lines: Hot Manananggal Flying!

Technical Effects: 4 out of 5 stars (Technically with some gore and the effects are actually good, especially in the climax part)

Plot: 3 out of 5 stars (It has a dark story yet the plot may have similarities with a lot of thrillers)

Acting and Actors: 4 out of 5 stars (Vangie Labanan was a suprize for themovie)

Pros:  Music, Cinematography, Effects, Erotic scene

Cons: Dark scenes, supporting characters

Music and Soundtracks:  5 out for 5 stars (It had great musical score, I wish they released an OST.

Overall: Rating 4.3 out of 5 stars (I can confidently say it is the best Manananggal movie for me to date as film elements blend perfectly along with the characters)