Nadine Lustre takes center stage in ‘Uninvited,’ one of the official entries in the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), alongside screen legends Vilma Santos and Aga Muhlach.
Known for her versatility, Nadine showcases a fearless portrayal of Nicole, a character brimming with emotional intensity and defiance.
The full trailer, unveiled during the film’s grand press conference on November 20 at Solaire North, highlighted Nadine’s striking performance, particularly a scene where her character unleashes a series of expletives directed at her father, portrayed by Aga Muhlach.
During the press event, Nadine admitted that her character Nicole is vastly different from her real-life persona.
“Medyo mahirap, kasi sobrang opposite kami ni Nicole,” Nadine shared. “She’s extreme—mayaman, lahat ng vices ginagawa niya, at parang may hatred siya towards her dad at sa mundo niya. Ako naman, chill lang.”
However, Nadine acknowledged one similarity: “Pareho kaming palaban.”
One of the most talked-about scenes in the trailer features Nicole lashing out at her father. Nadine described the scene as both challenging and humorous.
“That scene was very hard. After every take, kapag lumabas na ako ng pintuan, tawa ako nang tawa dahil sa added reaction ni Kuya Aga,” Nadine recounted. “Hindi ko alam kung kasama ‘yun sa final cut, pero nakakatuwa na natatawid namin ang ganitong eksena.”
She also praised Aga’s professionalism, noting how his real-life personality contrasts with his intense character in the film.
Nadine revealed her methodical approach to preparing for the role, including rehearsals and immersing herself in the character’s mindset.
“Inaaral ko talaga ang scenes. I try to put myself in the shoes of my character,” she explained. “Even if I haven’t experienced what my character has gone through, parang nararamdaman ko siya. Mahilig din kasi akong mag-imagine, and that helps a lot.”
Directed by Dan Villegas, ‘Uninvited’ is a psychological thriller centered on family secrets and horror unfolding over 24 hours. The film marks a reunion for Vilma Santos and Aga Muhlach after three decades since their last collaboration and Nadine Lustre’s first time working with both screen veterans.
The movie is produced by Mentorque Productions, known for the 2023 MMFF hit ‘Mallari,’ and Project 8 Projects, the team behind the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) entry ‘Sunshine.’
The ensemble cast also includes Mylene Dizon, Lotlot de Leon, Elijah Canlas, and Gabby Padilla, promising a gripping and emotionally charged narrative.
With its powerhouse cast and compelling storyline, ‘Uninvited’ is poised to be one of the standout films in the MMFF 2024 lineup, offering audiences a cinematic experience that blends drama, suspense, and raw emotions.
