Alapaap (2022) – A group of friends go to a secluded town to do a short film project but when they take an addictive substance that promised to bring them to cloud nine, they get to experience hell instead.
Synopsis
Alapaap (2022) is a gripping Filipino drama-thriller in Tagalog. It follows a group of friends who travel to a secluded town to work on a short film project. Hoping for inspiration and adventure, their journey takes a dark turn when they experiment with a mysterious substance.
The substance promises to elevate them to cloud nine, offering euphoria and heightened creativity. But what begins as an exciting experience quickly descends into chaos. The friends encounter terrifying visions, hallucinations, and extreme consequences that test their minds and relationships.
The Story
The story begins with Erik, Tonette, Orius, Cathy, Joyce, Adolf, and Mela Cantuba setting out on a creative journey. Their goal is to shoot a unique short film in an isolated location. Spirits are high, and friendships feel unbreakable.
Curiosity leads them to take an addictive substance. Initially, they enjoy its effects and feel unstoppable. But soon, reality blurs with hallucinations. Each friend faces personal fears, desires, and hidden secrets. The town’s eerie atmosphere amplifies their struggles.
Their adventure becomes a nightmare. Trust begins to crumble, and paranoia grows. Conflicts arise, and the line between reality and illusion disappears. The story explores how temptation and addiction can change people, even those closest to you.
Direction and Screenplay
Directed by Freidric Macapagal Cortez with a screenplay by Brillante Ma Mendoza, Alapaap blends suspense, psychological tension, and drama. The pacing is deliberate, letting tension build naturally. Dialogue is sharp and concise, reflecting the characters’ fear and uncertainty.
The screenplay delves into the psychological impact of addiction and isolation. Each scene heightens suspense and engages the audience in the friends’ perilous journey. Visual storytelling and cinematography enhance the hallucinatory experience.
Cast and Performances
Josef Elizalde portrays Erik, showing vulnerability and courage under pressure. Katrina Dovey as Tonette delivers a strong, emotive performance. Ali Asistio plays Orius, Andrea Garcia as Cathy, Chesca Paredes as Joyce, and Luke Selby as Adolf add depth and realism.
Supporting roles enrich the story. Angela Morena as Mela Cantuba, Mark Dionisio as Orius Dad Bodyguard, and Mj Coloma as Gay Lover provide context, tension, and dramatic stakes. Each actor brings authenticity, making the friends’ terrifying journey believable.
Themes and Symbolism
Alapaap explores temptation, addiction, fear, and the fragility of the human mind. It questions morality, personal responsibility, and the consequences of unchecked curiosity. The film also examines friendship, trust, and how easily bonds can fracture under pressure.
The “cloud nine” substance symbolizes desire and escape. The town reflects isolation, uncertainty, and the danger of losing oneself. Each friend’s struggle represents inner fears and the consequences of indulgence.
A Filipino Thriller of Temptation and Fear
Presented in Tagalog, Alapaap (2022) is a compelling Filipino drama-thriller. It combines suspense, psychological tension, and emotional storytelling. From the initial adventure to the harrowing climax, the film keeps audiences on edge.
Alapaap challenges viewers to consider choices, trust, and the dangers of temptation. With strong performances, suspenseful storytelling, and psychological depth, it is a must-watch Filipino thriller of 2022.
