You are here:

Aswang

Aswang

Representation Score

6.0/10

Good

2011

TV-PG

Director

Jerrold Tarog

Runtime

110 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Aswang is a culturally specific horror film centered around Philippine mythology. By focusing on local folklore and a Filipino cast, it offers a rich, authentic experience that avoids Western homogenization. However, the film remains narrow in its social scope. It relies heavily on traditional heterosexual norms and lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities or characters with disabilities. While it challenges gender roles through its female lead, it does not engage in broader socio-political critiques. Ultimately, the film is a specialized work of folk-horror. It succeeds in ethnic and gendered ability to act but misses opportunities for deeper cultural representation.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Aswang have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film centers on the survival of a mythical species through biological means. It does not include any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex relationships, sticking to traditional heterosexual norms.

How does Aswang portray gender?

Fair

Hasmin, the female protagonist, drives the plot using her unique biological abilities. She plays a significant role in shaping her species' future, challenging typical male-centric survival narratives.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Aswang?

Excellent

The film achieves high ethnic authenticity by featuring a Filipino cast and drawing from indigenous folklore. It avoids Western horror clichés to create a culturally specific cinematic experience.

How does Aswang represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative is rooted in rural Philippine culture and local myths. It focuses on preserving regional folklore without deconstructing Western institutions.

Does Aswang include disability representation?

Limited

No characters with visible or invisible disabilities are portrayed with significant control over their storylines. Physical vulnerability is used as a plot device rather than a central character arc.

Present on Screen

  • High ethnic authenticity through the use of indigenous Philippine folklore.
  • Challenges gender clichés by centering a female protagonist with significant influence.
  • Avoids the 'white gaze' by prioritizing local mythological frameworks.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and non-traditional gender characters.
  • No characters with visible or invisible disabilities are portrayed who play a significant role in driving the story.
  • Limited engagement with socio-political critiques or the deconstruction of institutions.

Official Synopsis

In this movie, the abuwak race is being threatened by extinction. The only way they can grow in numbers again is through the rare ability that only the soon-to-be queen of the abuwaks, Hasmin (Lovi Poe) possesses.

How are these scores produced? →

Where to Watch

Rate this Movie

No rating selected
Use arrow keys to select a rating from 1 to 5 stars
Optional text review, maximum 2000 characters
Tip: Wrap spoilers with ||double pipes|| to hide them
0/2000 characters
You must be signed in to submit a rating

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!

Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.