Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

'Wag Kang Lilingon

'Wag Kang Lilingon (English: Don't Look Back) is a 2006 Filipino co-directed by Quark Henares and Jerry Lopez Sineneng, consisting of two interconnected segments titled "Uyayi" () and "Salamin" (Mirror). The film was produced by ( Film Productions) and , marking a notable collaboration between the two major Philippine studios, and it premiered on November 15, 2006, with a runtime of 97 minutes. It was re-released in Philippine theaters on October 29, 2025. In the first segment, "Uyayi," Anne Curtis stars as Melissa, a young nurse who enters a new hospital under an assumed identity and encounters a series of mysterious deaths among male patients, leading her to uncover forces tied to her past. The second segment, "Salamin," directed by Jerry Lopez Sineneng, follows a family—led by and —relocating to a new home where an antique mirror unleashes terrifying hauntings that threaten their lives. The screenplay for both stories was written by Ricardo Lee, a prominent Filipino known for his work in and genres. The cast also includes notable actors such as , , and , contributing to the film's ensemble-driven narrative that blends psychological tension with Filipino elements like vengeful spirits and cursed objects. Critically, 'Wag Kang Lilingon received mixed to positive reception, earning a 6.3/10 rating on from 1,156 user votes (as of November 2025) and a 64% Tomatometer score on based on 7 reviews, with praise for its suspenseful atmosphere and cinematography despite some criticism of pacing. As one of the early omnibuses in Philippine , it exemplifies the genre's popularity during that era, drawing on cultural superstitions such as warnings against looking back or into mirrors at night.

Production

Development

The development of 'Wag Kang Lilingon originated in 2004, when initial negotiations for the project began with , marking a shift for emerging director Quark Henares from independent films like Keka (2003) to mainstream horror production. The screenplay was crafted by National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts , a prominent figure in Filipino renowned for scripts in films such as (1982) and (1982), who incorporated and supernatural motifs into an structure featuring two interconnected segments and an . Lee's script for the "Uyayi" segment underwent multiple revisions during . Originally, the "Uyayi" segment was assigned to television director Luis "Luigi" Santiago, known for the horror series Nginiig (2004–2005), but his death in a shooting incident on June 8, 2005, prompted Henares to step in as director later that year. Jerry Lopez Sineneng, an established filmmaker with credits including Lagarista (2000), was chosen to helm the "Salamin" segment, ensuring a cohesive blend of directorial visions under Lee's unified narrative. This transition highlighted key creative collaborations, with Lee personally offering the project to Henares and providing guidance throughout scripting. The film represented the first co-production between and since their partnership ended in 2001, a significant reunion in Philippine cinema facilitated by industry executives like Jr., chairman of , to merge horror elements for broader commercial appeal. Pre-production intensified in 2006, focusing on casting rising young stars in "Uyayi" and in "Salamin" to draw in younger demographics, capitalizing on their popularity from television and prior films. These choices underscored the project's aim to innovate within the local horror genre while leveraging star power for success.

Filming

Principal photography for 'Wag Kang Lilingon was completed in 2006, primarily in studios and selected hospitals for the "Uyayi" segment to evoke a realistic medical setting. The co-directors Quark Henares and Jerry Lopez Sineneng oversaw the shoot, with handled by Chris Manjares for the "Salamin" and Lyle Sacris for "Uyayi," emphasizing dim lighting and close-ups to build horror tension. Editing was led by Marya E. Ignacio, who integrated the two segments seamlessly with the . Sound design and production incorporated practical effects for elements like mirrors and apparitions, though some reviews noted they were overdone in execution. The film underwent restoration in 2014 by the Sagip Pelikula project, preserving the original 35mm footage for digital release; the project concluded in March 2025, enabling streaming of over 200 remastered Filipino films.

Plot

Uyayi (Lullaby)

(), a young nurse who was adopted by nuns after a traumatic childhood, starts working the night shift at a new hospital. She is supervised by () and begins dating journalist (), who goes undercover as a to investigate a series of mysterious deaths among male . As escalate, including ghostly apparitions and whispers, uncovers forces at play. In a major twist, it is revealed that is actually , the survivor from a , and she herself is responsible for the killings, driven by against abusive men linked to her past. She murders and takes his body to her dream house, where she communes with the ghosts of her and sister.

Salamin (Mirror)

After her father's abandonment, Angel (Kristine Hermosa), the breadwinner of her family, moves with her mother Aling Rosing (Cherry Pie Picache) and younger sister Nina (Celine Lim) into an affordable but eerie old house managed by caretaker Mang Nestor (Soliman Cruz). Strange occurrences begin, including apparitions and poltergeist activity centered around an antique mirror in the bathroom. With help from her psychic friend Trixie (Dimples Romana) and boyfriend Red (Baron Geisler), Angel discovers the mirror is a portal trapping vengeful spirits of women murdered by the house's previous owners. The family fights back against the entities, but the hauntings culminate in violent confrontations, leaving Nina as the sole survivor after Angel and Aling Rosing are killed defending against the caretaker's involvement in the original crimes. The segment ends with Nina over her sister's body, mirroring a scene from "Uyayi."

Epilogue

The stories connect through a : from "Salamin" is the same person who later assumes the of in "Uyayi" after being institutionalized following her family's tragedy. The hospital where works is built on the site of the , now haunted by the spirits of and Aling Rosing, who continue their vengeance by killing men. This ties the into a cycle of retribution rooted in familial . The film ends on an ambiguous note, emphasizing inescapable past horrors.

Cast and Characters

Uyayi (Lullaby)

In the "Uyayi ()" segment of 'Wag Kang Lilingon, directed by Henares, the cast embodies key figures in a narrative centered on intrigue and personal . stars as Melissa/Nina, the protagonist nurse grappling with a dual identity shaped by her traumatic past, ultimately revealed as the perpetrator behind the hospital's mysterious deaths in a pivotal . Her performance highlights the character's and into instability, driving the story's exploration of guilt and vengeance. Marvin Agustin plays James, Melissa's boyfriend and journalist who assists in investigating the mysterious deaths, highlighting their partnership until the story's twist. This role underscores the theme of trust and revelation within the psychological framework. Raymond Bagatsing portrays Dr. Carl, a doctor suspected in the hospital's mysterious deaths, contributing to the atmosphere of distrust and paranoia. His character heightens the narrative's focus on suspicion in a high-stakes medical environment. Ces Aldaba appears as the Hospital Head, the authoritative overseer managing the fallout from the deaths and heightening the bureaucratic strain on the protagonists. This figure amplifies the narrative's focus on systemic pressures in a high-stakes medical environment.

Salamin (Mirror)

Kristine Hermosa stars as Angel, the resilient eldest daughter and primary breadwinner of the family, who uncovers the supernatural dangers lurking in their new home and fiercely protects her loved ones from the vengeful entities tied to a cursed mirror. Cherry Pie Picache portrays Aling Rosing, Angel's devoted mother, whose role emphasizes familial bonds strained by the escalating hauntings and interactions with malevolent spirits that infiltrate their daily lives. plays , the innocent younger daughter whose vulnerability heightens the family's terror as she becomes a target in the spirit world's relentless pursuit, underscoring themes of protection amid supernatural chaos. Soliman Cruz embodies Mang Nestor, the enigmatic house caretaker whose sinister motives entwine him with the trapped souls in the mirror, serving as the central antagonistic force that blurs the line between human malice and otherworldly revenge. Dimples Romana appears as Trixie, Angel's psychic friend who aids the family in confronting the mirror's spirits, providing crucial insights into the haunted dynamics while facing the perils herself. Baron Geisler depicts Red, a supportive figure in Angel's life whose involvement draws him into the family's battle against the threats, amplifying the emotional stakes of their resistance. The segment, directed by Jerry Lopez Sineneng, highlights an ensemble that effectively conveys the tension between familial unity and the intrusive horror of restless spirits.

Release

Premiere and Distribution

'Wag Kang Lilingon had its world in Philippine theaters on November 15, 2006, distributed by and . The film's marketing campaign highlighted the star power of leads and , positioning them as emerging scream queens in Philippine cinema. Trailers emphasized the horror anthology format, teasing supernatural elements and plot twists across the two segments to build anticipation among audiences. Following its theatrical run, the film received a release on VCD and DVD. It later became available on digital platforms, including Prime Video for rent or purchase and for streaming. In 2014, 'Wag Kang Lilingon underwent digital restoration as part of the Film Restoration Project, which enhanced its visual and audio quality. This effort facilitated re-releases and broader streaming availability, ensuring ongoing access to the film for new generations. The film was re-released in Philippine theaters on October 29, 2025.

Box Office Performance

'Wag Kang Lilingon' enjoyed strong performance in the , emerging as a commercial hit within the mid-budget genre, with an estimated gross of ₱34 million. Released on November 15, 2006, during the competitive season, the film outperformed expectations, driven by robust word-of-mouth that highlighted its effective scares and suspenseful storytelling. As a co-production between and , the movie contributed significantly to the studios' profitability that year, benefiting from the era's growing interest in local productions. Attendance was notably boosted by teen and family audiences, attracted by the star power of and , who drew crowds seeking thrilling yet accessible entertainment.

Reception

Critical Response

Critics praised 'Wag Kang Lilingon for its tight scripting by , which contributed to its effective storytelling within the . One review highlighted the film's strong commercial viability, describing it as "one of the better Filipino suspense/ films that, aside from being tightly written and beautifully shot." Performances were a standout, particularly Anne Curtis's as Melissa and Nina in the "Uyayi" segment, which added depth to the psychological elements of her story. The structure was noted for innovatively blending psychological tension with across its two segments, offering a fresh take on Filipino urban legends. However, criticisms focused on overdone and production values that resembled television rather than cinema, with dramatic pans, stock music, and an overall aesthetic pulled from teleseryes detracting from the scares. Overall reception was mixed, reflected in aggregate ratings such as 6.3/10 on from 1,156 votes and a 64% Tomatometer score on based on 7 critic reviews, as of November 2025. Audience score on Rotten Tomatoes is unavailable.

Audience Reaction

Fans of 'Wag Kang Lilingon have expressed positive reception for the film's chilling scares and unexpected twists, which contribute to its enduring appeal as a Filipino . On , the movie averages 3.6 out of 5 stars from 53 customer reviews, while on , it scores 3.2 out of 5 from 976 user ratings, as of November 2025. Viewers frequently highlight the "Uyayi" segment as the stronger half, praising its tense hospital setting, psychological depth, and effective buildup to revelations that blend elements with personal dread. The film has garnered a in Philippine horror communities, where enthusiasts appreciate its blend of star power from actors like and alongside relatable explorations of trauma that echo cultural experiences of loss and family burdens. Online discussions, including on forums like , often commend its accessibility for newcomers to the genre, noting how the format and emotional storytelling make it approachable without relying on excessive . This resonance has influenced subsequent Filipino horror anthologies, such as those emphasizing thematic depth over jump scares, cementing its role in evolving local genre traditions. Following its digital restoration by ABS-CBN's Sagip Pelikula in with Central Digital Lab, modern audiences in 2025 have noted an enhanced viewing experience through sharper visuals and clearer audio on platforms like , sparking renewed conversations. Podcasts and threads have revived interest, with fans revisiting its twists and cultural motifs amid a wave of nostalgic revivals.

References

  1. [1]
    Wag kang lilingon (2006) - IMDb
    Rating 6.2/10 (156) A girl named Nina is given a new identity as Melissa, becoming a nurse where a series of mysterious deaths of male patients occurs.
  2. [2]
    Wag Kang Lilingon (2006) - Letterboxd
    Rating 3.2 (967) Wag Kang Lilingon is a twin-bill horror movie In the first story “Uyayi,” Anne plays Melissa, a young nurse with a bright future ahead of her.
  3. [3]
    Company credits - Wag kang lilingon (2006) - IMDb
    Production Companies · ABS-CBN Film Productions · Viva Films ...
  4. [4]
    Don't Turn Around | Rotten Tomatoes
    Rating 64% (7) i said, 'wag kang lilingon', kalo lo masi nengok blakang ya salah lo.... :P ... Synopsis A young nurse searches for a killer in the hospital. Director: Quark ...
  5. [5]
    From indie to mainstream - Philstar.com
    Nov 17, 2006 · This time, he goes mainstream with the commercial release of Star Cinema's horror-suspense, 'Wag Kang Lilingon. In the twinbill presentation ...Missing: development Viva
  6. [6]
    'Wag Kang Lilingon' flashbacks: Quark Henares, Anne Curtis react to ...
    Jun 21, 2023 · 'Wag Kang Lilingon' flashbacks: Quark Henares, Anne Curtis ... before “Uyayi.” “'Wag Kang Lilingon” was written by National Artist ...Missing: original | Show results with:original
  7. [7]
    TV director killed in Makati bar shooting - Philstar.com
    Jun 9, 2005 · Luis "Luigi" Santiago, 26, director of the horror and supernatural encounter series Nginiig, was pronounced dead on arrival at the Makati Medical Center (MMC).
  8. [8]
    'Wag kang lilingon (2006) - Jerry Lopez Sineneng, Quark Henares ...
    ... Wag kang lilingon (2006) ... 'Wag Kang Lilingon is a 2006 Filipino horror anthology film ... It was the first film co-produced by Viva Films and Star Cinema ...
  9. [9]
    Scaring the wits out of Kristine Hermosa - Philstar.com
    Oct 27, 2006 · ... twinbill "Wag Kang Lilingon," the latest movie offering from Star Cinema and Viva Films that stars Anne Curtis and Kristine Hermosa.
  10. [10]
    'Wag kang lilingon (2006) - Full cast & crew - IMDb
    director of photography (segment "Salamin") (as Chris Manjares). Lyle Sacris · Lyle Sacris. director of photography (segment "Uyayi"). Editor. Edit · Marya ...
  11. [11]
    Wag Kang Lilingon (2006) - Lessons From the School of Inattention
    Nov 19, 2006 · Star Cinema and Viva's team-up to make Wag Kang Lilingon (Don't Look Back), an omnibus of two horror shorts, might prove worthwhile for the two ...
  12. [12]
    The horror film 'Wag Kang Lilingon (2006) was restored in 2014 as ...
    Aug 22, 2025 · Directed by Quark Henares and Jerry Lopez Sineneng Written by Ricky Lee ... Broadcasting & media production company. 󱙿. ABS-CBN Sagip ...Missing: development Viva Star Cinema
  13. [13]
    Wag Kang Lilingon (2006) - Pinoy Horror Movies
    Dec 13, 2010 · She met also her boyfriend James (Marvin Agustin) in the hospital and together they try to uncover the killer behind the rising number of ...
  14. [14]
    'Tis the season of Anne Curtis | Philstar.com
    Dec 4, 2006 · In Uyayi, Anne plays Melissa, a young nurse with a bright future ahead of her. But then strange and violent events occur at the hospital she ...
  15. [15]
    Wag Kang Lilingon (Film) - TV Tropes
    Wag Kang Lilingon (English: Don't Turn Away; more specifically Don't Look Back) is a 2006 Filipino Supernatural horror film produced by Star Cinema and Viva ...
  16. [16]
    Wag Kang Lilingon! | PEP.ph - Philippine Entertainment Portal
    Nov 8, 2006 · ABS-CBN artists Kristine Hermosa and Anne Curtis star in back-to-back episodes—“Uyayi” and “Salamin—in a movie that took over a year to make. In ...Missing: review | Show results with:review
  17. [17]
    'Wag kang lilingon - Full Cast & Crew - TV Guide
    Director · Quark Henares · Jerry Lopez Sineneng ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  18. [18]
    Ricky Lee MAIN CAST: UYAYI - Anne Curtis & Marvin Agustin ...
    Apr 22, 2021 · ... WAG KANG LILINGON (2006) DIRECTOR: Jerry Lopez Sineneng (segment "Salamin") & Quark Henares (segment "Uyayi") WRITER: Ricky Lee MAIN CAST: UYAYI ...Missing: original | Show results with:original
  19. [19]
    'Wag kang lilingon (2006) - Plot - IMDb
    "Wag Kang Lilingon is a twin-bill horror movie. In the first story "Uyayi," Anne plays Melissa, a young nurse with a bright future ahead of her.
  20. [20]
    ANNE CURTIS, KRISTINE HERMOSA BECOME BONAFIDE ...
    May 11, 2025 · Anne Curtis and Kristine Hermosa take on the terror of a lifetime in "'Wag Kang Lilingon", a horror movie split into two spine-chilling chapters.Missing: 2006 Ricky co- Viva
  21. [21]
    Wag Kang Lilingon Official Trailer | Kristine Hermosa and Anne Curtis
    Nov 22, 2013 · For more photos and videos of 'Wag Kang Lilingon,' visit http://starcinema.abs-cbn.com/movies/wag-kang-lilingon Subscribe to the ABS-CBN ...
  22. [22]
    Wag Kang Lilingon VCD 2007 Horror Anne Curtis Kristine Hermosa ...
    In stock $4.47 deliveryWag Kang Lilingon VCD 2007 Horror Anne Curtis Kristine Hermosa Tagalog NEW. See full description.
  23. [23]
    Watch 'Wag Kang Lilingon | Prime Video - Amazon.com
    Rating 3.6 (53) 'Wag Kang Lilingon' is a Filipino horror film about a nurse solving supernatural problems at a hospital with her boyfriend. It is available to rent or buy.
  24. [24]
    5 must-watch remastered horror flicks available for free on iWantTFC
    Oct 24, 2022 · Aside from the films mentioned above, you can also watch "Sukob," "Dalaw," "'Wag Kang Lilingon ... Watch iWantTFC on a larger screen with ...
  25. [25]
    ABS-CBN - Facebook
    Nov 24, 2023 · NOW AVAILABLE ON APPLE TV! Watch the digitally restored and remastered ''WAG KANG LILINGON" (2006) on #AppleTV!<|control11|><|separator|>
  26. [26]
    'Wag kang lilingon (2006) - Release info - IMDb
    'Wag kang lilingon. Jump to. Release date (2), Also known as (AKA) (2). Edit. Release date. Philippines. November 15, 2006. Philippines.
  27. [27]
    'Wag kang lilingon (2006) - User reviews - IMDb
    Over all - a good film that i would recommend. it raised the bar of Filipino horror-suspense films a notch. Stop reading and get a copy.Missing: sound design special effects overdone
  28. [28]
    Month of Horror 2018: A/S/L – Philippines: 'Wag Kang Lilingon
    Oct 22, 2018 · 'Wag Kang Lilingon' is a supernatural horror film split into two parts: 'Uyayi' (Lullaby) and 'Salamin' (Mirror), with real villains at the end.<|control11|><|separator|>
  29. [29]
    Subtle art of fear: The evolution of feminism and horror - Philstar Life
    Oct 31, 2025 · This filmic wave has also shed new light on Filipino horror. For instance, 'Wag Kang Lilingon by Jerry Lopez Sineneng and Quark Henares ...
  30. [30]
    What is THE Filipino horror movie that scared the sh*t out of you?
    Apr 24, 2025 · wag kang lilingon. [deleted]. • 7mo ago. SRR sabi nila. ... practical effects hahaha. Trick_Top_313. • 7mo ago.
  31. [31]
    Filipino horror films to watch (or not), based on what scares you
    Oct 29, 2023 · “Deleter” (2022). Dir. Mikhail Red. It only makes sense that the ... “Wag Kang Lilingon” (2006). Dir. Quark Henares. Feeling like your ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  32. [32]
    5 must-watch remastered horror flicks available for free on iWantTFC
    Oct 24, 2022 · Aside from the films mentioned above, you can also watch "Sukob," "Dalaw," "'Wag Kang Lilingon ... 2025 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights ...