MMFF 2026 entry ‘Haunted Carnival’ teaser takes audience to ’80s disco

The upcoming 2026 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry “Haunted Carnival” is taking audiences back to the ’80s with its first teaser.

Regal Entertainment released a 35-second teaser on Monday, Sept. 14, showing the film’s cast grooving to an ’80s tune while dressed in outfits inspired by the decade.

The teaser comes amid the ongoing ’80s AI photo trend on social media, but Regal was quick to point out that its throwback look was created for the film.

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“WELCOME TO THE ’80s. Looks fun. Until it isn’t. The fits. The lights. No AI. Just pure ’80s Pinoy nostalgia,” the production company said in the caption.

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While the teaser leans into the colorful fashion and music of the decade, “Haunted Carnival” is a horror film set in the Philippines in 1986.

The story follows a group of strangers who must survive and escape a perya (carnival) filled with dangerous attractions operated by a mysterious Salamangkero. 

The film is directed by Joey de Guzman, who also directed the “Evil Origins” segment of “Shake, Rattle & Roll Extreme” in 2025. 

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James Reid leads the cast alongside Julia Barretto and veteran actors Maricel Soriano and John Arcilla. Also part of the ensemble are Fyang Smith, RK Bagatsing, Charlie Fleming, Prince Carlos, Joaquin Arce, JM Salvador and Celyn David. 

“Haunted Carnival” marks Reid’s first horror film. He previously said he accepted the project because the genre was something he had not explored before.

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“Haunted Carnival” is also the third installment in Regal Entertainment’s “Haunted” film franchise, following “Haunted Mansion,” which competed in the 2015 MMFF, and “Haunted Forest,” which was part of the 2017 festival. 

The film is among the official entries in the 52nd MMFF and is scheduled to open in cinemas on Christmas Day, Dec. 25. /edv