Bloody Crayons

Bloody Crayons is a forceful 2017 Filipino suspense-thriller film, directed by Topel Lee. The movie features a captivating ensemble cast of young, spirited actors including the dynamic trio Ronnie Alonte, Janella Salvador, and Elmo Magalona among others. The film takes its origin from the thrilling novel of the same name by Filipino author, Josh Argonza. This movie stands as a testament to the versatility of the Philippine film industry, dabbling into a genre that mainly mirrors suspense, mystery, and a bit of psychological intrigue. It is imbued with various elements that keep the viewer on the edge of their seat, right from the beginning until the credits roll.

The film presents an intriguing narration, centering around a group of seven bright university students. They are eccentric, ambitious, and talented in their respective fields, ranging from aspiring filmmakers, writers to an up-and-coming fashion designer, and ambitious models. The intrigue elevates when the friends are brought together for a retreat on a secluded island where they plan to film a short film as a part of their project. Little do they know, their ambitious endeavors would soon lead them into a series of unexpected, nerve-racking events that would challenge their relationships, their sanity, and their survival.

Ronnie Alonte, Janella Salvador, and Elmo Magalona shine in their performances, bringing a depth to their characters that ensures the audience is drawn into their individual narratives. Alonte, playing the charismatic yet mysterious character, keeps the audience curious with his embodiment of the role. Salvador delivers a convincing performance as the determined and passionate artist, bringing alive the nuances of the character. Magalona's performance is notable as he carries the depth and complexity of his role with finesse.

The narrative takes a darker, unnerving turn when the friends decide to play the seemingly harmless titular game, 'Bloody Crayons'. This game, involving various colored crayons and a series of challenging activities, suddenly catapults the group into a nerve-racking whirlwind of fear and mistrust. The friends find themselves being drawn deeper into a labyrinth of suspicion amidst unforeseen and deadly circumstances. The game of Bloody Crayons transforms from a harmless icebreaker into a deadly whirlwind of terror, leading to an intensified primal need for survival.

The plot arc of Bloody Crayons is laden with unexpected twists and turns, designed to keep the audience on the edge. As the characters find themselves tangled in a web of riddles and enigmas, they are forced to suspect each other, revealing past secrets and hidden enmities leading to a heightened reading of the phrase "trust no one." The uncanny setting of the isolated island intensifies the eerie and strange circumstances that unfold, with director Topel Lee's masterful cinematic effects and chilling background score augmenting the suspense element.

The film is not only about mysterious circumstances and deadly games, it also delves deeply into the complex nature of human relationships. The tale unravels nestled emotions, secrets, deceit, and complex layers of friendships challenged under fear. It navigates the contour of fear, mistrust and examines how far individuals can go when pushed to their extremes. Although being a thriller at its core, Bloody Crayons subtly infuses elements of drama, horror, and psychological suspense that enriches its cinematic journey.

Bloody Crayons is a film that packs a punch, ticking off all the essentials of a quintessential suspense movie. It is a compelling, dynamic mix of youth, suspense, and drama that hooks the viewer with its gripping narrative, stellar performances, and chilling climax. The film serves to unravel the paradox of fear and survival amidst the complexities of human relationships, making it a must-watch for fans of the suspense-thriller genre.