Feng Shui | 2004 | 1h 57m
Genre: Drama/Horror/Thriller | Country: Philippines
Director: Chito S. Roño | Writers: Chito S. Roño, Roy
Iglesias
Cast: Kris Aquino, Jay Manalo, Lotlot De Leon
IMDB: 6.4
My Rate: 9/10
Joy and her family experience a surge of good fortune after inadvertently finding a 'Bagua', but Joy soon discovers that this prosperity comes at a steep price, including the loss of loved ones.
Warning:
Contains violence and gore.
Synopsis:
Joy (Kris Aquino) accidentally finds a 'Bagua' left behind by its owner on a bus while returning home from work. Unable to return it, she takes it home. In Chinese tradition, the Bagua is believed to bring good luck. Aling Biring, the woman she usually buys pastries from, advises her to place it above her door to attract fortune and ward off evil. One by one, good fortune comes, not only to Joy but also to her husband, Inton (Jay Manalo).
Joy discovers that the person who left the Bagua has died in an accident. She also learns that Aling Biring has passed away. Even Mang Nestor, the man who always drives her to work, dies suddenly. The unexpected twist is that their deaths are linked to their Shio signs. Joy realizes that the Bagua is likely responsible for their deaths. She seeks answers from the wife of the man who left the Bagua.
Joy learns that the Bagua demands a sacrifice for every blessing it bestows. A tragic story lies behind the curse attached to the Bagua. The previous owner had requested the Bagua be returned, but Joy refused, believing it wouldn't break the curse.
As Joy tries to stop the curse and save her friends and family, she is faced with another difficult truth. Inton is having an affair with his ex-girlfriend. An argument ensues between them, which is inevitable. Aling Biring had previously warned them against arguing in their home, as it would turn good fortune into misfortune.
Will Joy succeed in saving her family?
Review:
Feng Shui presents a unique storyline. The film showcases how Chinese traditions and beliefs hold significant influence in the country. Many people still believe in the good luck brought by certain objects.
The idea of a contradiction where the Bagua, believed to bring good fortune to its owner, becomes a source of misfortune is quite unique. This is particularly intriguing when the deaths are linked to the victims' Shio signs. This concept is cleverly executed, requiring the writer to maintain a sense of plausibility and avoid absurdity.
The narrative is well-paced. The backstory and characters are well-explained. The introduction, conflict, and resolution are also well-handled. The domestic conflict that arises is cleverly woven into the plot. We see the implicit message where Inton feels entitled to his good fortune and is unhappy with his wife's greater share of it. This leads him to seek out his ex-lover to satisfy his ego as a man.
The cinematography, camera movement, and color composition are excellent. The music and sound effects are appropriate for each scene and enhance the suspense. The makeup of the ghost isn't particularly frightening, but the color composition creates a chilling atmosphere.
The acting is commendable, not only from the main cast but also from the supporting actors. The actors playing Joy's children even won awards for Best Actor and Actress. Although there's a slight lack of chemistry between Joy and Inton, Kris Aquino's acting, particularly her expressions, is impressive.
Overall, this film is highly recommended, especially for
horror enthusiasts.
Memorable Scene:
Joy retrieves her children from her mother-in-law's house. After being rejected by her mother-in-law, Joy finally unleashes her pent-up anger, stemming from her mother-in-law's and husband's disrespect towards her.
This scene highlights the importance of standing up for
ourselves against unfair treatment. If we don't defend ourselves, no one else
will.
Memorable Dialogue:
"Maybe they just found it hard to let go of good fortune."
Ending:
Cliffhanger
Recommendation:
Must Watch
(Aluna)
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