The Philippines is one of six Asian countries featured on FOLKLORE Season 2 which premiered exclusively on both HBO GO and HBO on November 14. To the delight of horror fans across the country, helmed by multi-awarded director Erik Matti, “7 Days Of Hell” – the Philippine episode of Folklore Season 2 – will release on HBO GO and HBO on December 5.
With a rich history full of traditions, beliefs, and practices that have shaped our culture over generations, the Philippines is an ideal setting to be explored by the HBO Asia Original horror anthology series. From its stellar cast to its distinctly Pinoy take on horror, here are some standout things viewers can expect from “7 Days Of Hell”.
Visionary direction
When it comes to the horror and thriller genre, few filmmakers can boast a better track record than Erik Matti, whom many consider as the Philippines’ top genre visionary in today’s cinema. Known for his fearless brand of filmmaking, Erik always brings bold and strange flavors to the interesting narratives he brings to life.
With its gritty mood and unflinching look into the motivations of the story’s central characters, “7 Days Of Hell” is no exception.
Erik is responsible for gripping crime thrillers like Honor Thy Father (2015), BuyBust (2018), and a number of spine-chilling horror stories including Pa-Siyam (2004), Kuwaresma/The Entity (2019), and Seklusyon (2016).
A gripping, emotional narrative
How far are you willing to go for someone you love?
That is the central question answered by Lourdes, a righteous policewoman, and mother who races against time to save her son Eugene from an illness of an unknown origin. When Eugene is given only a few weeks to live, she discovers that his illness is of supernatural origin and that a powerful sorcerer has cursed him.
The only way for her son to survive is for him to apologize and make amends to the sorcerer. As the clock ticks, she sets out on a desperate quest to save her son and find out what he had done.
The episode cast includes Dolly De Leon (Lourdes), Roshson Barman (Eugene), Princess Amor Lucas (Eunice), Donna Cariaga (Tita Let), Mon Confiado (Jong), Jay Glorioso (Aling Mameng), and Dido Dela Paz (Mang Celso).
Horror with roots in reality
“7 Days Of Hell” showcases the mystical side of the Philippines. Especially in the more remote provinces around the country, there are people who continue to believe in the powers of an “albularyo” (folk healer) as well as sorcerers called “mangkukulam” or “mambabarang”.
They rely on their connections with both nature and the supernatural, as the former harness their gifts to heal ordinary illnesses and paranormal inflictions, while the latter two use their powers to cause harm in ways unimaginable. Written by award-winning screenwriter Michiko Yamamoto, the curse seen in the story is based on true accounts of black magic attacks.
Stream or Download Folklore Season 2 on HBO GO. Download the app at the App Store or Play Store on your device for as low as PhP 99.70/month.
