The hype for local film Smaller and Smaller Circles began months before its premiere. People on my feed couldn’t stop recommending it to people, saying it’s going to be worth your money. After watching the trailer to see what the fuss was all about, I totally got why they were so intrigued.
The movie is a crime thriller on a Filipino serial killer based on F.H. Batacan’s novel of the same name. For people who are still undecided on catching the film tomorrow, here are a few reasons why you should.
#1 Spine-tingling plot
Smaller and Smaller Circles is considered as the first Filipino crime novel when it was published in 2002. It revolves around the investigation of a serial killer who goes around murdering young boys in Payatas. As noted in the trailer, the victims’ circumstances were all the same—they had their heads covered in a bag or tape, and had signs next to their bodies that depicted what crimes they committed.
#2 All-star cast
Smaller and Smaller Circles stars Nonie Buencamino and Sid Lucero as the two Jesuit priests who perform forensic investigations on the victims. They are joined by Carla Humphries who plays a journalist who’s assisting them. Other actors include TJ Trinidad, Bembol Roco, and Christopher De Leon.
#3 Reminiscent of present times
Based on the plot we mentioned above, you can’t deny that it’s eerily similar to what’s happening in the country today. Although Smaller and Smaller Circles is set in the ’90s, one can’t help but compare it to the war on drugs. As of today, the death toll is around 7,000, maybe even higher. But the culprits are usually never caught because majority of them are from the police force.
We’re not saying that the killer in Smaller and Smaller Circles might be one of the policemen. (What if it was? Gasp!) But just think of the fact that they were killed because of a crime they allegedly committed. That there are people who would take another person’s life because they want to take justice into their own hands.
#4 A great production team
The movie is created by TBA Studios, the same people behind Birdshot and Heneral Luna. So you know that you’re in for a treat before entering the cinema.
#5 Promo materials
Aside from the trailer, the Smaller and Smaller Circles Facebook account has a unique way of promoting the movie. This includes GIFs of scenes and a Messenger game where you “chat with a serial killer.” According to the page, the game has six possible endings. Before you catch the film, this should give you a hint of what’s to come.
Art by Lara Intong
Follow Preen on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, and Viber
Related stories:
Mary Joy Apostol of Birdshot Wins Best Actress in ASEAN Film Awards
Watch: A Chilling Look at Duterte’s War on Drugs
5 Thrilling Books to Read for Halloween
Get Off Your Butt and Support Local Cinema