Nora Aunor, the Philippines’ National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, is set to make a haunting comeback as she stars in the upcoming mystery thriller Mananambal. The film showcases Aunor as a traditional healer whose practices extend into the realm of sorcery.
The official trailer, released on January 24, introduces a chilling storyline involving a group of male vloggers visiting a remote town in Siquijor. Their goal: to document their “Witch Hunt” series by securing an interview with Aunor’s enigmatic character. However, their persistence backfires as eerie and violent events unfold, leaving them mysteriously harmed.
The film also features Bianca Umali, who appears to play a pivotal role, alongside Kelvin Miranda, Edgar Allan Guzman, Jeric Gonzales, and Martin Escudero. Directed by Adolfo Borinaga Alix Jr., Mananambal marks the third collaboration between Aunor and Alix following Kontrabida (2021) and Pieta (2023).
Mananambal made its world premiere at the Jinseo Arigato International Film Festival in Japan last year and is slated to hit Philippine cinemas on February 19.
Aunor, celebrated for her iconic career, was honored as National Artist in 2022. Her earlier work Kontrabida earned international acclaim, winning the NETPAC Prize for Best Asian Film at the 6th Hanoi International Film Festival.
