‘People are scarier than statues:’ Kelvin Miranda reflects on sacred terror in ‘Poon’

Unpacking his initial reaction to the film’s premise, Miranda shared that his connection to religious figures was once rooted in fear. “Noong bata ako, natatakot ako sa poon,” Miranda admitted, remembering how the towering statues used to unsettled him as a child. “Noong unang beses mo nakakita ng mga malalaking poon na-question ko rin… kahit saan ako lumingon, nakatingin sa akin ‘yong poon.”

Yet, as he matured, Kelvin’s understanding of both faith and terror shifted away from inanimate objects and toward human intent. “Noong naiintindihan na natin ‘yong mga bagay-bagay, nabubura na sa utak natin ang ganoong klase ng takot,” he explained. “Ang masasabi ko doon sa pelikula, tao kasi ang gumagawa ng kinatatakutan natin. Hindi naman mismong ang rebulto, hindi naman mismo ‘yong poon. Nasa tao pa rin siya, kung ano yong perspective mo doon sa bagay.”

Addressing the broader Catholic devotion to icons, Kelvin noted that the statues themselves are merely tools for expression rather than objects of worship. He explained that praying before an image is no different from holding a photograph of a loved one to feel closer to them, adding that he personally relies on physical images to deepen his own conviction. Ultimately, his work on the film solidified a simple truth for him: “Ako naman, ‘yong takot ko naman sa poon no’ng bata ako, nawala naman siya along the way… Narealize ko, mas nakakatakot pa ang mga tao.”

The film itself weaves a narrative around twelve primary statues, and a mysterious 13th “spare saint” described as being “a saint, but not a saint.” Rooted in generational Filipino superstitions and folklore passed down through elders, the story explores how deep-seated beliefs can warp into horror.

Alongside Miranda and the late Jaclyn Jose, the film boasts a powerhouse ensemble cast featuring Janice de Belen, Lotlot de Leon, and Ara Mina. “Poon” hits theaters nationwide starting September 9.

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