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Heaven Peralejo’s ‘Lilim’ to Premiere at Rotterdam Film Festival

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Photo via Heaven Peralejo (@heavenperalejo)/ Instagram 

Heaven Peralejo’s latest film, Lilim, is set to make its world premiere at the 54th International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) in January. This annual event, known for spotlighting independent and experimental films, also takes place in various venues across Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Filmmaker Mikhail Red, who directed Lilim, shared the exciting news on social media, posting the film’s international poster along with his announcement. “Flying to the Netherlands in the winter! Lilim will have its world premiere at the 54th IFFR. Congratulations to the entire cast and crew!” he wrote.

In Lilim, Peralejo stars as Issa, an orphan who, along with her brother, uncovers disturbing events in the orphanage where they live. This marks Peralejo’s first major role in the horror genre, further adding to her previous work in the suspense thriller Nanahimik ang Gabi with Ian Veneracion.

The film’s cast includes notable actors such as Eula Valdez, who reunites with Red after their work on Nokturno, and Ryza Cenon, who recently shaved her head for her role. Mon Confiado and Gold Aceron also join the ensemble, thereby bringing their diverse acting experiences to this project. Moreover, the team’s collaboration ensures a dynamic blend of talent and storytelling.

Red, known for his award-winning film Deleter, shared insights about the movie’s layered title. He explained that Lilim carries dual meanings. It translates to “shade” or “shelter” in Filipino, which reflects the orphanage setting. However, it also ties to the demon Lilith, giving the story a dark, supernatural twist.

As part of Red’s Diablo universe, Lilim explores themes of shelter and danger, blending cultural and mythological elements with a haunting narrative. This addition consequently enriches the interconnected storylines that span Red’s previous works.

The film’s premiere at Rotterdam is a significant step for Peralejo and the team. It showcases Filipino talent on an international platform. In addition, it highlights the growing global recognition of Filipino filmmakers and their unique storytelling approaches.

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