Kritikultura
Review aggregator | Filipino films
Review aggregator for homegrown Filipino films
Generally positive reviews
Fiction based on Fr. Juan Severino Mallari, a 1800s Filipino priest, the first serial killer, predating Jack the Ripper by 60+ years.
This film is best watched with friends and you will definitely enjoy watching it together. It is a scream out fest every minute and plays and linger in your mind while watching. 5/5
”Mallari definitely deserves a spot in your top three must-watch films list because of three factors: visually satisfying, a storyline that ties up well, and stellar acting across the entire cast.
”Mallari stands as a groundbreaking addition to the Philippine horror genre, skillfully weaving a chilling tale that transcends time and delves into the depths of human nature.
”With a twisted inter-generational premise, meticulous storytelling, and Piolo Pascual's standout performance in three distinct roles, 'Mallari' is poised for both box-office success and critical acclaim, likely sweeping numerous awards at the MMFF. 9/10
”‘Mallari’ is a triumph in Philippine horror. Not just because it’s big budgeted, not just because Warner Bros. Pictures is part of it, but because this is a multi-layered, complex and well-made film. 4.5/5
”Mallari did not only live up to my expectations but it surpassed them. Mentorque Productions is killing it with a film that not only entertains but also resonates.
”It’s funny that the whole point of the film had an underlying message that is extremely familiar in the recent and current political climate in the Philippines. [...]. It’s a sight for social media and fantasy for the optimist. (4.5/5)
”If pamilyar kayo sa ending ng Feng Shui, yung super thrilling na nagsisigawan na yung buong audience dahil sa magkahalong excitement at kaba. Ganon ang makukuha natin sa Mallari. (Napaka Ganda)
”Marahas, may sense ang istorya, at napanindigan ang tema. Ang daming jumpscare na hindi pilit at talaga namang umubra.
”Mallari is flawed but still largely admirable for its blend of folk mysticism and religious fervor, which are elements of Filipino culture that have fueled some of the best local horror films. (4/5)
”Mallari’s greatest strength still lies on its concept. The effort to be a different kind of horror film was seen and appreciated. 2.6/5
”Mallari is one of my favorite films in this year's festival, if only for its sprawling ambition and how it manages to meet that ambition in many parts. 3.5/5
”Despite the presence of cliché tropes, this serial killer horror film distinguishes itself as a testament to our local cinema’s ability to create daring and unconventional films that embrace a more adventurous storytelling path. 3.5/5
”...despite what the film lacks, it achieves something remarkable for the genre. Enrico Santos wrote a screenplay that weaves an interesting mix of the horror and the time-travel narrative. (3.5/5)
”Mallari is a gripping tale of horror, sci-fi, and myth. It’s a must-watch for those who enjoy a well-crafted, genre-blending narrative, even if the jump scares might make you roll your eyes a bit. (3.5/5)
”Unfortunately, Mallari bit more than it could chew. But had this been a dish, the uncooked portions are still edible and delectable – and so it’s not so bad as others claim it is.
”The overreliance on jump scares and the occult fails to tie up effectively with the overall storyline. This heavy-handed (and unnecessary) approach to horror detracts from what could have been a refined, narrative-driven film instead. (3/5)
”Ang ganda ng storytelling! It was unique and fresh for a Philippine Cinema, Im glad na tinatry natin itaas ang antas ng mga kwento natin! (3/5)
”Lacking a singular focus, Mallari is a too-elaborate smorgasbord of horror, compounded by Pascual’s multiple roles. But if you’re simply into suspense and jump scares, then you’d enjoy this carnival fun house. 2.5/5
”If there is a School of Hard Knocks, Cabrido would like to introduce us to the School of Loud Knocks. I’m certain it’ll work with an audience ready to flock to a Piolo movie or just eager to be scared out of their seats during the Festival.
”The performances of the cast are worth every peso. It's not exactly scary, as it spends most of its time with jump scares that, while effective, are all forgotten eventually.
”Gorgeous production on this, but this movie is pretty dumb. 2.5/5
”Mallari's story is undoubtedly an intriguing one to tackle, however Enrico Santos' screenplay doesn't do enough to fully utilize that premise and the plotline he decides on.
”Though well-made and well-acted (including a stellar turn from JC Santos), a head-scratching script can't quite save Mallari from being a baffling mess. (B)
”Stylish ‘Mallari’ needs a sermon on building scares, mythology. (2.5/5)
”The technical marvel of "Mallari" cannot be ignored, but its innovations steers it to tradition in several ways.
”This is a horror movie with decent visuals, so you’d think the scares should at least be good too. But no, they’re all cheap jump scares carried by a loud, screeching score or sound that don’t have any bearing on the plot except to torment the lead characters and the audience.
”Good potential but it’s way too long. (2/5)
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