WONDERFUL NIGHTMARE

Wonderful Nightmare (2026)

Directed by: RC Delos Reyes

Wonderful Nightmare (2026)

Directed by: RC Delos Reyes

This film might already be predictable. From the story’s moral to the character development, you already know where it’s heading. Despite that, it still catches you off guard.

When heavy emotions take control, you really can’t fight them anymore. You will be moved by how the actors carry the scenes. Their performances serve as the film’s highlight. It’s impossible not to feel anything.

In her best role and finest performance to date, Kim Molina proves to be one of the most compelling actresses today. Beyond comedy, she demonstrates impressive dramatic range.

She completely commits, giving her all with no restraint. She has the skill to make her every word count, turning even the most ordinary lines into something big and meaningful.

When she pleads, you can’t help but give her what she wants. Sabrina Carpenter’s “Please Please Please” is no match.

Playing an attorney requires authority and power—and she possesses that innate quality. Being a mother calls for compassion and empathy—and she carries both with an open heart. Her relationship with her daughter is the greatest thing that comes out of the movie.

Althea Ruedas is often called as “OA” in the movie, but she uses this label as an advantage. Because of her all-out performance, her character is seen and recognized. By the way she carries herself, you’re already drawn to defend her.

When you put Kim Molina and Althea Ruedas together in one scene, you can see the resemblance. Both of them carry an energy that exceeds the usual. They complement each other, embodying the mother and daughter relationship.

Jerald Napoles brings a lighter touch to some intense scenes, which slightly lessens their emotional weight. Krissha Viaje struggles in both facial expression and delivery, taking away the importance of the message she’s supposed to convey.

Candy Pangilinan knows how to make a scene funnier than what it already is. The additional touch she brings makes the punchline land harder. Her mannerisms are a comedic asset on their own. The extras and the bit players, from the barangay captain to the cashier, all have their moments to laugh at.

At times, situations that need attention are handled unseriously, which prevents them from being tackled and explored. The cinematography is not entirely a big deal, although it could’ve highlighted more the actors’ expressions and movements.

Uneven editing affects the overall continuity. Faces of the actors awkwardly change even within the same scene. Some clips suddenly appear. There seem to be gaps in between.

Performance highlights are present throughout the film. However, abrupt transitions prevent them from being sustained. Momentum is frequently interrupted. Technical shortcomings keep the film from fully taking off, but the main actresses are able to save it somehow.

Far from being a nightmare, the film excels through the wonderful performances of Kim Molina & Althea Ruedas. The story has its own merits too. Knowledge and wisdom become tools to face life’s challenges. Lines have a tendency to be powerful and emotional. Lessons are earned and learned.

Hindi bangungot ang mapapala mo sa sinehan. Magigising ka sa katotohanan na kaya ka palang patawanin at paiyakin ng pelikulang ito.

𝐖𝐎𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐅𝐔𝐋 𝐍𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐄

Cast: Kim Molina, Jerald Napoles, Al Tantay, Candy Pangilinan, Achilles Wenceslao, Althea Ruedas

Screenplay by: Easy Ferrer, Rod Marmol

Based on Korean Motion Picture “Wonderful Nightmare” written by Son Won-Ho

Presented by: Viva Films, Globalgate Entertainment

Release Date: April 4, 2026 in Philippine cinemas nationwide

A Movie Review by: Goldwin Reviews