Espantaho


Espantaho is a 2024 Philippine supernatural horror film directed by Chito S. Roño from a screenplay by Chris Martinez. It stars Judy Ann Santos, Lorna Tolentino and Chanda Romero. The film is part of ten official entries to the 2024 [Metro Manila Film Festival|50th Metro Manila Film Festival].

Plot

The film opens on the death of the family patriarch, Pabling. Pabling's daughter, Monet, who is mourning over his death had a seizure and lost consciousness. While unconscious, Monet had a vision of her father warning her not to let "him" into the house.
This film focuses on the traditional Funeral practices and [burial customs in the Philippines|funeral rituals and customs] at the Lazatin-Henson-Katigbak Mansion.

Cast

Main Cast

Production

On September 12, 2024, Quantum Films in their 20th year anniversary revealed in their social media page their upcoming horror film titled Espantaho with its logo and official cast leading by Judy Ann Santos and Lorna Tolentino. Aside from Santos and Tolentino, Chanda Romero, Mon Confiado, JC Santos, Donna Cariaga, Nico Antonio, Kian Co and Janice de Belen are confirmed to be part cast with Tommy Abuel and Eugene Domingo revealed that have special roles in the film.
The role of Lorna Tolentino was supposed to be played by Vilma Santos. Vilma stated that there was some "problem" on the character and later withdrew from the project to act in Uninvited, which Vilma said is a "dream story". This marks Tolentino's return to acting in horror films since 1995's Patayin sa Sindak si Barbara. While Chanda Romero's role was supposed to be played by Charo Santos.

Release

The film was released theatrically on December 25, 2024, as part of the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival. The film also scheduled to premier at Manila International Film Festival in Los Angeles on January 30, 2025.