Watch “Talahib” Online: A Review of the Sinag Maynila 2024 Slasher Film
Written & Directed by: Alvin Yapan
Sinag Maynila 2024 Official Selection
Introduction: A Slasher Film that Falls Flat
Talahib (2024) is a Filipino slasher film that promises chills but delivers yawns. Directed by Alvin Yapan, the film is set in ominous talahib grass fields where paranormal killings unfold. However, instead of being a gripping horror experience, it turns into a frustrating and tiresome watch. Currently screening in select theaters, it is expected to arrive on streaming platforms soon.
Plot Summary: Mysteries in the Grass
The film follows police officers Bong and Roman as they investigate a series of paranormal killings in eerie talahib fields. What should have been a suspense-filled journey turns into a slow, disjointed narrative with characters that are hard to take seriously. The slasher elements, while bloody, fail to evoke any real sense of fear or excitement.
Film Themes and Critique
Talahib tries to blend slasher film tropes with elements of mystery and paranormal activity, but it misses the mark in execution. The dialogue feels forced, the characters are one-dimensional, and the overall tone of the film is more laughable than frightening. The police characters, who are central to the story, come across as comic relief rather than serious investigators, which detracts from the film’s supposed tension.
The film’s pacing is another issue—scenes drag on for too long, with characters walking aimlessly through the tall grass for what feels like an eternity. Instead of building suspense, these moments test the audience’s patience.
Technical Aspects: Cinematography and Sound Design
The cinematography in Talahib leaves much to be desired. The choice of color grading makes some characters look unnaturally yellow or blue, and the camera angles are often disorienting, leaving viewers more dizzy than scared. The sound design, meant to enhance the horror, instead grates on the ears with awkward sound effects and poorly mixed audio.
The one element that could have saved the film—its setting in the ominous talahib grass—ends up feeling underutilized. Instead of enhancing the atmosphere, it becomes a repetitive backdrop for characters to walk through with little sense of urgency.
Cast and Performances
Despite the film’s flaws, the cast includes well-known names such as Joem Bascon, Kristof Garcia, Gillian Vicencio, and Jess Mendoza. Unfortunately, even their talents aren’t enough to salvage the weak script and poor direction. The acting feels either overly exaggerated or completely flat, with little consistency across performances.
Where to Watch: Current Theatrical Screenings and Future Streaming Availability
Talahib is currently screening in theaters as part of the Sinag Maynila Film Festival from September 4-10, 2024. You can catch the film at these select venues:
- Gateway Cinemas (NCR)
- SM Cinemas (NCR)
- Robinsons Manila & Galleria
- Market Market
For those unable to see it in theaters, expect Talahib to become available on streaming platforms in the near future. Here are some potential platforms where the film might be streamed or rented:
- Netflix: Netflix has been known to feature a variety of international horror films, and Talahib could find a place on its extensive catalog.
- Amazon Prime Video: Prime Video often acquires indie and festival films for rental or streaming, making it a likely destination for Talahib.
- Apple TV: If you prefer to rent or purchase the film, Apple TV is another platform that may offer this option following the theater run.
- Hulu: As Hulu continues to expand its offerings, there’s potential for Talahib to appear here as well.
Keep an eye on these platforms in the coming months as the film transitions from theaters to digital availability.
Conclusion: A Slasher Film That Misses the Mark
Talahib is a slasher film that tries to evoke fear but only manages to frustrate. From its underwhelming direction and sloppy editing to its inconsistent performances, the film feels like a missed opportunity to create something genuinely terrifying. While the premise has potential, the execution leaves much to be desired.
Rating: 2/5 Stars
Stay Updated on Streaming Availability
Be sure to check popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV for updates on where to watch Talahib online, following its theatrical run.
