“Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright…”
This Christmas, you may find yourself singing the traditional Christmas carol “Silent Night” but altogether in a different, more eerie perspective.
This is because of the suspense-thriller “Nanahimik Na Gabi (A Silent Night)” as written and directed by Shugo Praico.
An entry to this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival, it is far removed from the usual colorful Christmas setting.
It follows the story of a gorgeous young woman and her lover, an older man, who, as the story unfolds, are ensconced in a secluded mansion, eager to savor the delights given to their forbidden tryst.
What should have been another night of hot, steamy fornication quickly turns into a terrifying sleigh ride following the sudden and unexpected appearance of a man who is definitely not Santa Claus.
Shugo, the director of the hit socio-political series “Bagman,” is excited for people to watch his work.
“This is a cautionary tale,” he shared. “It’s about dealing with the consequences of our actions, our decisions. We are excited for everyone to catch it in cinemas because it is different compared to the usual Christmas fare.”
Playing the lovers are Heaven Peralejo and Ian Veneracion.
The stranger is essayed by Mon Confiado.
“It’s an unusual combination of actors but it only makes it more enticing,” said Shugo. “I think they all excelled here.”
This is the first time that Rein Entertainment is competing at the annual MMFF.
Lino Cayetano, one of the film’s producers, is hopeful people will support the festival.
“It’s been a while. I’m sure everyone is excited to watch movies in theaters again,” he said.
He urged everyone to watch not only “Nanahimik Ang Gabi (A Silent Night)” but also other entries.
“Ngayong Pasko, sama-sama tayong matawa, maiyak, matakot at mabigyang inspirasyon sa iba’t ibang pelikula na dala ng MMFF. Atin pong ibalik ang tradisyon na pagtangkilik sa pelikulang Pilipino sa mga sinehan.”
