Banal - Dare To Climb The Horror In The Mountains?

The thrilling movies in Philippine cinema continues this May with the latest offering by APT Entertainment called BANAL. The movie features the hottest teen celebrities like Miguel Tanfelix, Bianca Umali, and Andrea Brillantes. This seems an interesting mix of Kapuso and Kapamilya stars which are also part of top rating teleseryes like Sahaya and Kadenang Ginto.

Said to be inspired by true events, Banal shares the story of a group of friends who went on a hiking trip to the mountain which was said to be a source of miracles for those who pursue to climb it. Many would climb mountains because of many reasons, the gang seems to have their own individual agenda for the trip. But since the mountain is full of mystical secrets and dark entities, many things can happen as they go up on their trek and their lives are at steak with every step towards the top.

The film  also tackles pinoy mysticism with its roots in the mountains which is an interesting choice of plot since many would go with the conventional urban scares like monsters and ghosts.They did a great job with the cinematography which is a combination of aerial shots, color combinations, and jumpscares to make you feel the thrill of the scenes.

Banal stars Miguel Tanfelix, Bianca Umali, Andrea Brillantes, Taki, and Kim Last. Produced by APT Entertainment, showing in cinemas May 29, 2019. 

Deliberation time kids! 

Film summary: Murderous Mystery Mountain

Favorite quote: “Halos mamatay na tayong lahat para sa milagro mo" 

Technical Effects: 4 out of 5 stars (effects are quite better than the average Pinoy horror film)

Plot: 3 out of 5 stars (Some plots were predictable yet they often spur out a plot twist)  

Acting and Actors: 3 out of 5 stars (Miguel Tanfelix stands out among the group with him owning up to his character)

Pros:  Jump scares, Mountain folklore, cinematography
Cons:  kinda rushed ending, more focus on the mystical beings of the mountain

Music and Soundtracks:  4 out for 5 stars (The score might have been a little traditional horror sounds but still blend well to the eerie forest of death)

Overall: Rating 4.0 out of 5 stars (Impressive take on mountain horror movies which I think is a level up in terms of cinematography, plot, and gore)