It’s all fun until it isn’t: ‘Haunted Carnival’ drops teaser

Regal Entertainment just dropped the first-look teaser of the upcoming horror flick “Haunted Carnival,” offering audiences a nostalgic glimpse into the vibrant and exciting setting of the '80s.

The upcoming horror film gives a colorful sense of its ’80s-inspired world, bringing audiences back to the look and feel of the decade through retro fashion and a distinctly Pinoy aesthetic. Regal Entertainment teased the project on social media with the line, “WELCOME TO THE ’80s. Looks fun. Until it isn’t.”

The film jumps on the latest social media trend where users transform their photos into ’80s-style images using AI. In Regal’s case, however, no AI was used—the teaser instead features the cast members dancing and grooving in full ’80s-inspired fashion.

The production further highlighted its retro aesthetic, sharing: “The fits. The lights. No AI. Just pure ’80s Pinoy nostalgia. Haunted Carnival FIRST LOOK.”

Leading the ensemble cast are Julia Barretto, James Reid, John Arcilla, Fyang Smith, RK Bagatsing, Ronnie Alonte, and Maricel Soriano. The project also marks James Reid’s first horror film.

The cast also features Charlie Fleming, Joaquin Arce, Prince Carlos, Celyn David, and Phi Palmos.

Fans also flooded the teaser’s comment section with messages of support and excitement for their favorite stars. One fan wrote, “Seated na dito! Ang cute naman ni Fyang and Diamond Star [Maricel Soriano].” 

Another commented, “Horror ’to pero ang gaganda ng mga cast. From Ms. Maricel to Julia Barretto to the rest of the cast.” 

Meanwhile, another fan expressed excitement over James Reid’s horror debut, writing, “James Reid horror movie?! This I gotta see.”

The upcoming film is directed by Joey de Guzman, who previously helmed the “2025” segment of “Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins.”

“Haunted Carnival” is among the first four official entries announced for the 52nd Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), joining “2nd Miracle in Cell No. 7,” “Amir,” and “The Greatest Showdown.”