Da One That Ghost Away

The Filipino movie "Da One That Ghost Away" is a quirky romantic comedy with a twist of the supernatural. Directed by Tony Y. Reyes and written by Ays de Guzman, this film features a stellar cast, which includes Kim Chiu and Ryan Bang. Released in 2018, the movie played a significant role in further entrenching Filipino comedy in the global film scene.

Kim Chiu is in the lead role, playing the character Carmel Monseratt, a charming, quick-witted, and ambitious young woman. The actress delivers an impressive performance as an ordinary girl with an extraordinary problem. Kim Chiu's endearing portrayal of Carmel beautifully maintains the balance between comedy and drama, providing viewers with a hearty dose of laughter while tackling serious life issues.

Carmel is an entrepreneur who, alongside her group of friends, operates a bogus paranormal elimination agency. Despite her skepticism about ghosts, Carmel decides to deceive people into believing that she has the ability to see and banish evil spirits. Her motive behind this falsehood is to financially uplift herself and help her ailing father, which is an emotional subplot that runs through the film and tugs at the heartstrings of the audience.

Ryan Bang, known for his comedic talent, plays Jack Colmenares, a rich, spoiled, and mysterious man with a haunting problem. Bang offers an entertaining performance, effortlessly delivering comic relief throughout the film.

The film's plot kicks into high gear when Carmel's fake ghost-vanquishing company is hired by Jack to rid his house of real supernatural entities. The once-skeptical Carmel and her motley group of friends find themselves in the middle of a truly paranormal scenario. Filled with hilarious antics, slapstick humor, and creepy happenings, the movie quickly evolves into a riotous adventure.

Chiu and Bang's chemistry is apparent, with their interactions providing ample opportunities for laughter. Their personalities are polar opposites, allowing for an engaging push and pull dynamic that keeps viewers on their toes. Carmel's no-nonsense determination plays off wonderfully against Jack's playful and impractical character, making for a hilarious and unpredictable plot.

However, "Da One That Ghost Away" isn't just about laughs and scares. The film does a commendable job of interweaving dramatic sequences into its laugh-out-loud comedic narrative. Carmel's struggle to provide for her ailing father and the sentimental bond they share add a tear-jerking layer to the otherwise humorous movie.

The supporting cast also contributes to the movie's unique charm. Carmel's friends, played by a brigade of Filipino comedians, take the film's comedy to the next level. Their camaraderie and the group dynamics enhance the overall appeal of the film, making it an absolute delight to watch.

The film's cinematography is worth mentioning, as it aptly captures the eerie ambiance of the haunted house alongside the brightly colorful world of Carmel and her friends. The CGI effects used for the ghost apparitions are well-executed, adding to the film's fun quotient while maintaining a mild horror aesthetic.

"Da One That Ghost Away" blends comedy, drama, and horror elements smoothly, providing the audience with an entertaining viewing experience. Despite being a light-hearted comedy, the film also explores the theme of hardship and the extents to which individuals go to support their loved ones. This multifaceted story makes the film more than just a comedy flick, reaching out to the audience on a deeper, more emotional level.

In conclusion, "Da One That Ghost Away" is a high-spirited film that effectively combines various genres to deliver a unique cinematic experience to its viewers. Kim Chiu and Ryan Bang, along with the supporting cast, create an enjoyable and hilarious romp that will have audiences laughing one moment and sympathizing with the characters the next. It's a delightful supernatural comedy that's sure to entertain every member of the family.