Pa-siyam

Pa-siyam is a 2004 Filipino horror film directed by Emmanuel "Maning" Borlaza, featuring renowned actors such as Roderick Paulate, Cherry Pie Picache, and Aubrey Miles in the lead roles. The title Pa-siyam in Filipino culture refers to a nine-day prayer ritual performed for the soul of the deceased, which is the primary backdrop of the film and a catalyst for the supernatural events that unfold. Drawing from Filipino folklore, customs, and superstitudes, the film provides a deep dive into the traditional beliefs connected with death, grief, and the afterlife.

Roderick Paulate, a veteran actor known for his dramatic prowess and comedic timing, collaborates with Borlaza once again, delivering a riveting performance that taps into the vein of horror and suspense. He plays the character of a successful overseas worker who returns to his rural hometown upon the sudden death of his sister. Accompanied by several relatives, he is forced to face both the physical remnants of his past and the lingering ghosts, both figurative and literal, that haunt their ancestral home.

Cherry Pie Picache, an actress of the same dramatic calibre, showcases her versatility in playing one of the relatives who gets embroiled in the escalating supernatural happenings. Her commitment to her role amplifies the dramatic tension and contributes significantly to the overall eerie atmosphere of the film.

The youthful energy of rising star Aubrey Miles is not to be undermined, whose character brings an interesting dynamic amidst eerie happenings around. Her character embodies the contrast between the modern, urban lifestyle and the traditional customs and beliefs in rural communities, further intensifying the conflicts in the narrative.

Pa-siyam begins on a haunting note — a mysterious death — and proceeds to venture into the depths of the Filipino ritual of Pa-siyam, the nine-day prayer offering for the departed soul. As the relatives gather to comply with this tradition, the solemnity and regular rituals soon give way to a chilling series of unexplained events, each more unsettling than the last. These occurrences force the family members to confront their past, their unresolved conflicts, their personal fears, and the daunting possibility of a supernatural presence among them.

Emmanuel “Maning” Borlaza, known for his distinctive directorial style in the realms of horror and suspense, intricately applies traditional Filipino folklore and faith into this modern story. The narrative is infused with a healthy dose of local color, ensuring an authentic representation of the subject matter. His expert navigation of the horror elements, combined with elements of drama and suspense, keeps the viewers gripped throughout.

The film does not solely rely on jump scares or gory visuals that are typical in numerous modern horror films. Instead, it takes a more psychological approach, utilizing careful pacing, escalating tension, and a calculated unveiling of the plot. The ambiguity involved in the film's narrative serves to keep the audience guessing until the very end.

Cinematography plays a crucial role in creating the haunting ambiance of Pa-siyam, utilizing atmospheric lighting, ominous shadows, and claustrophobic camera angles to build suspense and dread. The traditional Filipino setting, complemented by authentic costume design and set pieces, contributes to the overall mood of the film, making it as much a cultural exploration as it is a horror flick.

Moreover, the film also delves into the dynamics of the Filipino family, uncovering layers of hidden resentment, guilt, love, and forgiveness as the plot progresses. While the horror elements of Pa-siyam are engrossing, the exploration of these familial relationships against the backdrop of fear and uncertainty provides a deeper, more resonant emotional connection for the audience.

Pa-siyam is a uniquely Filipino horror film, a chilling tale that weaves together familiar elements of local folklore with a compelling family drama. It showcases not just the scares that Filipino superstitions can offer but also gives viewers a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage. The performances of Paulate, Picache, and Miles combined with Borlaza's masterful storytelling make this film a gripping experience as it honors, terrifies, and captivates with its uncanny blend of folklore and drama.