Uninvited (2024)

Uninvited: A Vengeful Party You Won’t RSVP to Twice

Uninvited (2024) is a Philippine mystery crime thriller directed by Dan Villegas, co-produced with a story and screenplay by Dodo Dayao. Starring Vilma Santos, Aga Muhlach, and Nadine Lustre, the film entered the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival with a tale of vengeance set against a backdrop of crime and corruption.

The story revolves around Lilia Capistrano (Vilma Santos), a grieving mother who infiltrates the lavish birthday party of wealthy criminal Guilly Vega (Aga Muhlach) to avenge her daughter's brutal murder. With layers of deceit, violence, and a cathartic showdown, the film explores the dark underbelly of power and privilege.

1. A Familiar Tale with a Few Twists
At its heart, Uninvited follows a well-trodden revenge plot: a mother seeking justice for her child. While the narrative isn't groundbreaking, the execution keeps you hooked. Villegas's direction ensures a polished visual style, and Dodo Dayao’s screenplay peppers the predictable storyline with sharp dialogue and moments of campy indulgence.

2. Star Power and Standout Performances
Vilma Santos as Eva/Lilia delivers a solid performance, though her attempts at subtle, eye-driven acting occasionally fall flat. Conversely, Aga Muhlach steals the show as the flamboyantly sinister Guilly. His portrayal brims with devilish charisma, echoing Al Pacino’s theatrical villainy in The Devil’s Advocate.

Nadine Lustre shines as Nicole, Guilly’s tormented daughter, bringing depth and vulnerability to a challenging role. Her scenes with Santos, while powerful, would’ve benefited from tighter editing to heighten their emotional impact.

The ensemble cast, including Nonie Buencamino, Lotlot de Leon, Elijah Canlas, and Mylene Dizon, each leave an impression, but it’s Muhlach’s menacing presence that truly elevates the film.

3. Flashes of Brilliance Amid Predictability
The film’s pacing is uneven, with a drawn-out buildup that dulls the climactic party confrontation. The revenge-fueled action sequences lack the tension and urgency needed for a truly gripping payoff. However, the musical score deserves applause, amplifying the film's intensity and creating moments of genuine suspense.

The film embraces its campiness, which, while entertaining, occasionally undermines its dramatic stakes. The predictable plot twists—though expected in a revenge story—diminish the emotional weight of the climax.

4. Final Thoughts
Uninvited isn’t without its flaws, but it still delivers enough intrigue and star power to warrant a watch. With Santos and Muhlach anchoring the narrative, it’s an enjoyable revenge flick, even if it doesn’t reinvent the wheel. For all its predictability, the film offers just enough drama, camp, and thrills to keep audiences entertained.

Catch it in theatres if you’re in the mood for some indulgent vengeance, but it might be better suited for a streaming night at home.

Leia Mais