For decades, the throne of Philippine horror cinema was occupied by a rotating court of giants. The battle for scare supremacy was a classic tale, but in 2025, the narrative is shifting. With the highly anticipated November 26, 2025, release of “Gabi ng Lagim: The Movie,” GMA Films is not just entering the arena—it’s seizing the crown and declaring itself the new Horror King.
Let’s rewind the tape and look at the chilling chronology that led to this pivotal moment.
The Age of the Titans: A Legacy of Fear
The landscape of Filipino horror was built by four pillars, each with its own distinct flavor of fear.
1. Regal Films: The Founding Monarch
They experimented with modern fears in “Txt” (2006), explored local superstitions in “Pa-Siyam” (2004), and, crucially, learned from the masters by co-producing modern installments of the “Shake, Rattle & Roll” series. For generations, the name Regal was synonymous with horror. Through the legendary “Shake, Rattle & Roll” franchise, which began in 1984, “Mother” Lily Monteverde’s empire delivered a steady stream of iconic creatures and urban legends into the Filipino psyche. From the manananggal of “Aswang” to the haunted refrigerator of “Pridyider,” Regal was the undisputed king, defining what it meant to be scared in a local cinema.
2. Viva Films: The Master of the Macabre
Viva Films competed for the throne with a catalog of profound, stand-alone horror classics. With films like “Ika-13 Kapitulo” (2000) and “Aurora” (2018), Viva proved they could produce horror that was not only terrifying but also cinematically exquisite, appealing to a generation that craved both jump scares and substance.
3. Star Cinema: The Blockbuster Challenger
The giant of mainstream cinema, Star Cinema, would occasionally flex its muscles with horror event movies. They showed that with star power and high production value, horror could break box office records. They gave us the psychological terror of “Patayin sa Sindak si Barbara” (1995) and the chilling anthologies like “Magandang Hatinggabi.” Films like “Feng Shui” (2004) and “Sukob” (2006) became cultural touchstones, proving that a well-told ghost story could captivate the entire nation.
4. GMA Pictures: The Strategic Heir
For years, GMA Films was the quiet contender. While others ruled, they built their foundation with “The Road” (2011), “Ouija” (2007), “Tiktik: The Aswang Chronicles” (2012), “Tarot” (2009) & “Sundo” (2009). They were studying the craft, honing their strategy, and waiting for their moment.
The Coronation: “Gabi ng Lagim: The Movie”
That moment is now. “Gabi ng Lagim: The Movie,” slated for a nationwide release on November 26, 2025, is not just another horror film—it is a statement.
Directed by the acclaimed directors Dodo Dayao, King Mark Baco and Yam Laranas. This film promises a level of atmospheric dread and polished terror that is unprecedented. The Trio is the perfect generals to lead this coup, blending artistic vision with mainstream appeal.
But a king is nothing without its champions. The film assembles a royal court of acting talent that is a powerhouse in Philippine entertainment:
- Jessica Soho
- Miguel Tan Felix
- Jillian Ward
- Rocco Nacino
- Sanya Lopez
- Elijah Canlas
- Martin Del Rosario
- Lotlot De Leon
This cast represents a perfect storm: the proven dramatic and horror chops of Ward, Lopez and Canlas, combined with the massive television following of GMA celebrities. It’s a strategic move that unites generations of viewers.
The Reign Begins
“Gabi ng Lagim: The Movie” symbolizes a new era. It takes the anthology format perfected by Regal, elevates it with the cinematic quality of Viva, and launches it with the star-driven, event-level marketing of Star Cinema. But it does so with a distinct, modern identity that is uniquely GMA.
By leveraging its powerful television platform to build anticipation and assembling a dream team of cast and crew, GMA Pictures has executed a masterstroke. They are not just releasing a movie; they are launching a new dynasty in Philippine horror.
The old kings built a legendary foundation. Now, on November 26, 2025, a new Horror King ascends to the throne. The night of terror begins, and its name is GMA Pictures.
Are you excited for “Gabi ng Lagim: The Movie”? Let us know in the comments below!