"Uninvited," directed by Dan Villegas and written by Dodo Dayao, is a revenge thriller that doesn't break new ground with its plot. What it lacks in originality, it makes up for with the exceptional performances of its lead stars.

The film follows Lily Capistrano / Eva Candelaria (Vilma Santos), a grieving mother who seeks to avenge the death of her daughter, Iris (Gabby Padilla). She vows to kill her daughter’s killers, led by the villainous Guilly Vega (Aga Muhlach). While the premise is familiar and the twists are easy to predict, the acting is what truly transforms this Warner Brothers-Mentorque Productions-Project 8 Projects entry into a compelling watch.

In this film, Vilma once again proves why she remains a powerhouse in Philippine cinema. As Eva, she delivers an emotionally charged performance that tugs at the heartstrings of the audience. She masterfully balances the vulnerability of a mother in mourning with the steely resolve of someone determined to right an irreparable wrong.

Whether she’s quietly grappling with grief or unleashing her fury on those responsible for her daughter’s death, Vilma’s portrayal of Eva feels raw and authentic. There’s a palpable tension in every scene she's in. Her ability to shift seamlessly between subtle expressions of sorrow and explosive moments of anger makes her a magnet for viewers' eyes.

Vilma’s portrayal of Eva is the soul of the film, providing the emotional weight needed to propel the narrative forward in an otherwise forgettable storyline.

On the other hand, Aga delivers a chilling performance as Guilly, a cruel, untouchable crime lord and maniac. Aga fully embraces the role, and his portrayal is as effective as it is disturbing. His presence is so commanding that the mere sight of him onscreen instills dread. Aga's transformation into this villainous figure is both compelling and terrifying, showcasing his versatility as an actor and proving that he’s capable of much more than just romantic leads.

Vilma and Aga's performances will keep viewers at the edge of their seats throughout the 1 hour and 30 minutes runtime, despite the film's familiar premise.

Each scene, whether filled with quiet introspection or explosive confrontation, feels meaningful and carries weight thanks to the stellar performances from the dynamic ensemble. The tension between them builds steadily, leading to a climax that is as emotionally cathartic as it is satisfying.

The supporting cast, including Nadine Lustre, Gabby Padilla, RK Bagatsing, Ketchup Eusebio, and Elijah Canlas, also had strong performances.

Villegas expertly crafts moments of stillness and intensity, allowing the performances to shine without distractions. The film's production design, while effective in conveying the opulence of Guilly’s world and the simplicity of the Capistranos, takes a backseat to the raw, compelling performances of its stars.

For fans of Filipino cinema and character-driven storylines, "Uninvited" is a must-watch.