28-05-2025
Lav Diaz Opens Up About Rare Acting Role in Psychological Horror ‘The Sacrifice,' First Look Unveiled (EXCLUSIVE)
The first official image has been unveiled of acclaimed Filipino filmmaker Lav Diaz in 'The Sacrifice,' a psychological horror film currently in production in the Philippines.
The award-winning director has intermittently stepped in front of the camera before. The newly released still offers a glimpse of Diaz as Pilo, a quiet and enigmatic jungle guide who leads a group of vloggers deep into remote terrain steeped in ritual and folklore.
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Known for directing international festival favorites like 'Norte, the End of History' and 'The Woman Who Left' — which won the Golden Lion at Venice in 2016 — Diaz now opens up about his character in the upcoming thriller.
'I love the character. He's a conflicted person — he paints a picture of the type of person we see every day. The greatest struggle in life is how to be a good human being, and I think Pilo embodies that conflict,' Diaz says. 'I loved playing this role.'
Diaz, who is currently attending the Cannes Film Festival with his latest directorial feature 'Magellan' starring Gael García Bernal, also shares his thoughts on collaborating with a new generation of filmmakers: 'I love working with fellow filmmakers, especially young filmmakers. You feel rejuvenated doing cinema with young people.'
'The Sacrifice' is produced by C'est Lovi Productions and Kind Hearts Entertainment, with Montgomery Blencowe ('Heist,' 'Marauders') and Mark Stewart ('Escape Plan') serving as producers.
Directed by Prime Cruz ('Sleepless,' 'Ang Manananggal sa Unit 23B'), the film features Lovi Poe ('Seasons,' 'Guilty Pleasure'), Enchong Dee ('Gomburza,' 'Outside'), and Timothy Granaderos ('13 Reasons Why,' 'Who Invited Them') in lead roles. Additional cast will be revealed soon.
The first look was unveiled at the Cannes Film Market.
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