Jessica Soho describes her first big-screen experience in ‘KMJS’ Gabi ng Lagim The Movie’ as both surreal and terrifying, emphasizing that beyond the scares, the film carries deep social relevance audiences should reflect on.
For decades, Jessica Soho has been a household name in Philippine journalism, known for her award-winning program ‘Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho’ (KMJS). But in 2025, she found herself in unfamiliar territory—appearing on the big screen for the first time through ‘KMJS’ Gabi ng Lagim The Movie’, a horror anthology adapted from the show’s popular Halloween specials.
At the film’s press conference in Cebu, where stars Sanya Lopez and Miguel Tanfelix joined her, Soho candidly admitted that the experience was overwhelming. “Nakakapanibago! Nakakatakot! Hindi ako sanay!” she said, recalling how fans asked for photos with her alongside the actors. “Ay, ganito pala ‘yung feeling pag artista!”
She explained that while storytelling remains at the heart of her work, cinema offers a unique dimension. “Kung nagkukuwento ka, it shouldn’t matter kung anong klaseng screen ka nakikita. Ang panlaban naman namin eh content—‘yung strength nung content namin. But having said that, gusto naming sabihin na may advantage syempre kapag sa big screen… when you go inside the dark movie theater, tapos sensurround ‘yung audio, naririnig mo ‘yung mga hiyawan sa scenes—ibang klase, di ba? Sobrang ibang experience siya!”
Soho highlighted how the film’s cinematic treatment—complete with enhanced special effects and immersive sound—makes viewers feel part of the scene. She even recounted visiting Miguel Tanfelix during a shoot at Manila Bay, where she witnessed the harsh conditions faced by seafarers, an experience that deepened her appreciation for the authenticity of his role.
While ‘Gabi ng Lagim The Movie’ promises spine-chilling entertainment, Soho stressed that its stories are rooted in real-life issues. “Noong pandemic lagi ko ‘tong sinasabi sa staff, sabi ko ‘Nakakatakot na ang buhay natin, bakit pa gusto nating manakot?’ Pero narealize ko now, nakakatakot naman talaga ang buhay, di ba? Life is one big horror movie, especially now with how things are turning out for this country.”
She explained that the film is not just about supernatural thrills but also about confronting societal realities. The scripts were carefully written to weave in social relevance. For instance, Jillian Ward’s segment Sanib tackles both demonic possession and mental health struggles—a theme Soho noted is particularly resonant among Gen Z audiences. “That makes it relevant… ipapaalala pa rin niya sayo na itong mga contents na ito, nangyayari pa rin sa totoong buhay, sad to say.”
This blending of horror and reality reflects ‘KMJS’ long-standing tradition of storytelling that entertains while educating. As Soho put it, the film is a “perfect vehicle” to deliver narratives that are both gripping and socially conscious.
Produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs, ‘KMJS’ Gabi ng Lagim The Movie’ marks the 20th anniversary of ‘Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho’. Directed by acclaimed filmmakers Yam Laranas, Dodo Dayao, and King Mark Baco, the anthology features three stories inspired by real paranormal experiences. The film is set for nationwide release on November 26, 2025, distributed by Sony Pictures Releasing International.
The project also underscores GMA Network’s growing presence in cinema, following the success of films like Firefly and Green Bones, both recognized at the Metro Manila Film Festival.
Jessica Soho’s leap from television to cinema is more than a personal milestone—it is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. Her reflections remind audiences that while horror entertains, it also mirrors the fears and struggles embedded in everyday life.
