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Surviving Evil

Name: Surviving Evil
Director: Terence Daw
Released: 2009
Duration: 90 min

Representation Score

3.2/10

Limited

2009

Not Rated

Director

Terence Daw

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Surviving Evil stands out by grounding its horror in Philippine mythology rather than Eurocentric clichés. By focusing on the Aswang and using Filipino actors, the film offers a rich cultural context. However, the film adheres to conventional genre structures. Character roles often align with established social norms, and the narrative does not engage with LGBTQ+ identities or disability representation. Ultimately, while the film excels as a culturally specific horror piece, it falls short in pushing boundaries related to social or identity-based diversity.

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Category Breakdown

Does Surviving Evil have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses entirely on the survival of the documentary crew and the Aswang threat. There are no LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities featured in the narrative.

How does Surviving Evil portray gender?

Fair

The film includes a mix of male and female characters, but many roles follow traditional horror clichés. Women play crucial roles in the plot but often embody typical gendered vulnerabilities.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Surviving Evil?

Good

The film showcases a diverse cast and centers its plot around Philippine folklore. The inclusion of Filipino actors and the Isarog tribe adds authentic cultural depth.

How does Surviving Evil represent religion and culture?

Good

The story examines the clash between Western media and indigenous realities. It questions the crew's expertise by highlighting local supernatural beliefs.

Does Surviving Evil include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities in the film. The narrative does not include neurodivergent representation.

Present on Screen

Centers the Aswang folklore, integrating non-Western mythology.
Features a diverse cast including prominent Filipino talent.
Highlights the critique of Western media commodifying indigenous environments.

Limited or Absent

Does not include LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender characters.
Relies on traditional gender roles and horror clichés.
Lacks characters with disabilities or neurodivergent representation.

Official Synopsis

A TV documentary crew arrive on a remote island in the Philippines to film a survival special. Their back-to-the-wild adventure proves to be more terrifying than they ever could have imagined

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