A chilling new horror adaptation set for Metro Manila Film Festival debut

A modern twist on a cult classic

Prepare to be terrified this holiday season as “Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital,” a fresh take on the South Korean horror sensation “Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum,” is set to premiere at the upcoming Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) in December.

The original 2018 South Korean movie, directed by Jung Bum-shik, garnered significant attention for its innovative use of the found footage format. Rooted in actual events, it revolved around an abandoned psychiatric hospital in Gwangju-si and featured a stellar cast, including Wi Ha-joon from “Squid Game” and Park Ji-hyun from “The Divine Fury.”

See the first footage of the Korean original

A Filipino take on supernatural horror

The upcoming adaptation promises to retain the spine-chilling essence of the original but with a distinctive Filipino flavor. Directed by Kerwin Go and produced by acclaimed director Erik Matti (known for “On the Job” and “BuyBust”) along with veteran producer Dondon Monteverde, this film is a product of Reality MM Studios.

The hauntings of Xinglin Hospital

The plot of “Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital” mirrors the original, following a group of Filipino amateur ghost hunters as they delve into the mystique surrounding the notorious Xinglin Hospital. Located in Taiwan’s West Central District, this abandoned asylum is reputed to be among the most haunted places in Taiwan due to recurring paranormal activities.

Star-studded ensemble cast

In this Philippine adaptation, the charismatic Enrique Gil (“My Ex and Whys,” “Seven Sundays”) leads a diverse group of real-life personalities, including Jane De Leon (“Shake, Rattle & Roll Extreme”), Alexa Miro, Rob Gomez (“A Girl and a Guy”), and MJ Lastimosa (“Day Zero”). Adding a touch of authenticity, the cast also features real-life tarot reader Raf Pineda and the prominent content creator Ryan “Zarckaroo” Azurin.

Beyond fiction: Zarckaroo’s influence

Zarckaroo is particularly well-known for capturing real haunted and offbeat locations on his YouTube channel, which boasts 1.6 million subscribers, and his Facebook page, with 1.9 million followers. His involvement in the film adds an extra layer of realism and has fans eagerly anticipating the movie’s release.

The origins of the phenomenon

“Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum” was not only a cinematic marvel but also a commercial powerhouse in South Korea, attracting over 2.6 million viewers and grossing a staggering $21 million at the box office. It became the second highest-grossing Korean horror film in 2018, setting a high bar for its adaptations.

Production insights

The concept of the remake was brought to Reality MM Studios by BJ Song, CEO of Creative Leaders Group 8, who has notable credits like “Taxi Driver,” “Boys Over Flowers,” and “Princess Hours.” The film is currently in post-production and despite not yet having an international sales agent, expectations are high.

A national cinematic celebration

The Metro Manila Film Festival, though named after the capital region, is a nationwide event and one of the most significant cinema-going seasons in the Philippines. It exclusively showcases Filipino films, providing a platform for local talent and storytelling.

Discover more about the Metro Manila Film Festival

Mark your calendars

“Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital” is scheduled to debut on Christmas Day (Dec. 25), promising to be a highlight of the festival. With its blend of real-life hauntings, expert storytelling, and an exciting cast, it’s set to make a significant impact on the horror genre.

For those eager to immerse themselves in the chilling world of Xinglin Hospital, the wait is almost over. Stay tuned for more updates and follow our channels to keep up with the latest in the world of film.

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