Echorsis - Movie Review

Acceptance is what drives and motivates ‘Echorsis’, director Lem Lorca’s latest gay-centric film after the critically-acclaimed ‘Ned’s Project’ (in which he bagged a Best Director and Best Film Awards in this year’s CineFilipino Film Festival). The theme is something that has been tackled countless times in movies, but the inclusion of combined horror and humor is a breath of fresh air, allowing itself to still have fun with the audience despite the sensitivity of its issue.

Kristoff (John Lapus) is a closeted gay fearing of rejection from his parents. His newfound love with Carlo (Alex Medina) made him realize the courageous choices he must undergo, which turned into stranger and more dangerous decisions when emotional turn-of-events happened. Lapus, still bearing the comedic charm he was known for, was surprisingly effective during his dramatic bits. It’s rare to see him play such role on both aspects but I really bought him on scenes where he has to be serious. 

Alex Medina was also solid in this movie. Perhaps his most memorable moments are the ones where he has to let go (possessed rather) of his boyish quips for a larger-than-life gay-possessed heterosexual. A mix of remorse and gut-bursting laughter was felt in his character, reaching the deserved chain of consequences for his wrongdoings. 

Kean Cipriano was a nice addition to the film, playing the exorcist Father Nick. His character, whom I initially felt who could be here for the sole purpose of fixing the conflict, was revealed to add another to the reoccurring theme of acceptance, which turned out to be more risky than expected. Father Nick was a homosexual hiding his real identity in a seminary full of gay-opposing friars. I love when the film has to go on that note, but it somehow concludes rapidly.

The third act didn’t do much for me at all. The first two act had a semi-serious vibe going on that ending it with a ridiculous action sequence ruins the build-up to go to that. Nevertheless, the performance of the lead cast might be enough to forgive you for its noticeable flaws.

‘Echorsis’, with the gravitas of the issue it include, settles for fun which for the most part worked. This is a film that whole-heartedly respect the homosexual community, portraying them as strong-willed people amidst their vulnerability instead of disregarding them for plain laughs.
The geek rates it 7/10!

‘Echorsis’ is opening this Wednesday, April 13 in cinemas nationwide! Rated R-13 by the MTRCB.

Echorsis: Sabunutan Between Good and Evil

Directed by: Lem Lorca
Produced by: Chris Cahilig
Starring: John Lapus, Alex Medina, Kean Cipriano, Alessandra de Rossi, Chokoleit, Kiray Celis, Mich Liggayu, Ruby Ruiz, Nico Antonio, Francine Garcia, Odette Khan Negi Negra, Bekimon,, and 1:43’s Yuki Sakamoto, Anjo Resurreccion, Gold Aquino, and Yheen Valero

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