Ouija: It’s worth the scare

With a cast made in horror heaven, it’s impossible not to expect a lot from Topel Lee’s first full-length flick. But GMA and Viva Films made the right choice in getting him as a director, because “Ouija” is an interesting mishmash of your worst nightmares. And for a scary movie, this is most definitely a good thing. Text by Jillian Q. Gatcheco. Photos by Jason John S. Lim and Mitch S. Mauricio. The film begins in the dusky shores of Camiguin where a group of cousins use the Ouija board, only to back out once the spirit begins to manifest itself. Thankfully, their grandmother comes to the rescue and recites a prayer to “close” the ritual. Their beloved lola, however, would not be there anymore to save them when they decide to perform the ritual once again after 20 long years. Meet Aileen, Romina, Sandra and Ruth Aileen (Judy Ann Santos), the eldest of the cousins, is a work-obsessed, cigar-smoking lawyer who holds a grudge against her half-sister Romina (Jolina Magdangal). The latter grew up with their lola and now works as a grade school teacher. Aileen’s father fell in love with Romina’s mother when they were little, and Aileen blames Romina for breaking up her family. Jolens and Juday fans would not be disappointed with their idols’ exposure in the movie, because both had equally significant scenes that reflected their experience in the industry. In Ouija, it wasn’t Judy Ann and Jolina anymore; it was severe Aileen and lowly Romina. Much has been said about Judy Ann doing a movie for GMA Films, especially with the news that ABS-CBN refused to promote the film despite having Judy Ann as its contract star. Jolina and Judy Ann both chose to respect ABS-CBN’s decision and would rather concentrate on more important matters. Judy Ann also clarified that there was never a problem with the billing, to which Jolina agreed: “Hindi dapat mag-away (ang fans). Dapat masaya sila na nagkasama kami!” Iza Calzado’s character, Sandra, is a scene stealer, providing a welcome break from the anticipation of being scared. As a self-obsessed theater actress, Sandra’s easy-going life is reflected in her finicky fashion sense, disregard for her best friend (Desiree Del Valle), and fondness for making people fuss over her. Do not miss her fabulous one liner at the airport which she delivers wonderfully: “What’s the point of being beautiful kung hindi mo kayang paghintayin ang eroplano?” The youngest of the cousins is Ruth (Rhian Ramos), a med student who is constantly being controlled by her mother (Jackie Lou Blanco). Ruth is a victim of youth – of not knowing better and of being a slave to everyone’s word. She is a “saling pusa,” so to speak. This ultimately gets her, her boyfriend (JC De Vera), and her yaya (Ruby Rodriguez) into trouble. Acting alongside Jolina, Judy Ann, and Iza is not at all bad for a second flick, and Rhian knows how lucky she is. “Na-star struck ako when I was put in a scene with all three (of them). (But) they’re such real people, so you get over the fear; it feels like a family.” Scenes that shouldn’t be missed The witty use of lighting and surround sound (sound recording was completed in Bangkok, Thailand) heighten the viewing experience even more. And the scenic island on which the movie is shot provides a stark contrast to the evils going on. Cameo roles by Ryan Agoncillo and Bebong Muñoz -- Judy Ann and Jolina’s boyfriends, respectively, were pleasant surprises. You should also watch out for child star Ella Guevara and afternoon drama queen Valerie Concepcion. Some terrifying parts that you shouldn’t miss include Iza’s scene inside the closet and Judy Ann’s sequence in the office hallway. These segments happen simultaneously with Jolina and Rhian’s equally spine-tingling scenes, and for a moment there, you wouldn’t realize that you’ve been holding your breath! The icing on the cake, of course, is the movie’s ghost, who goes by the name of “Magda.” She looks like your stereotypical Asian-horror “white lady,” with long black hair, dead eyes, and snow-white features, but the best part is a major twist in the end that will leave you hugging your seatmate! Apart from Magda, the movie is smart enough to leave gore behind -- a refreshing change in an age so dependent on prosthetics. No-frills acting, unexpected light moments, and constant eye-covering ultimately prove that Ouija has lived up to its hype. What are you waiting for? Rush to the nearest cinemas on July 25 for that much-awaited scare! Take a peek behind the scenes of GMA Films’ first horror movie in The Making of Ouija. Tune in on Saturday, July 21, 11AM on GMA and at 11PM on QTV. More features! The comic and the underdog Ouija insider! Star-studded horror Direk Topel on Ouija A scary moment Talk about Ouija in the iGMA Forums! Text JOLINA, IZA, or RHIAN to 4627 to Feel the Fun with Fanatxt! (PhP2.50 for Globe, Smart, and Talk ‘n Text; PhP2.00 for Sun)