Tiyanak (1988)
A landmark of Philippine horror cinema, rooted in ancient folklore and driven by one of the genre's most unsettling premises: the monster wears the face of an innocent child.
Tiyanak - Movie Information
- Original Title: Tiyanak
- Release Year: 1988
- Directed by: Peque Gallaga, Lore Reyes
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Horror, Thriller
- Runtime: 2h 4m
- Original Language: Tagalog
- Spoken Languages: Tagalog
- Release Date (Theatrical): September 12, 1988 (Philippines - R)
- Alternative Titles: Goblin (UK)
- Production Companies: Regal Entertainment
- Production Countries: Philippines
Tiyanak - Plot
A childless woman adopts an abandoned infant but when disturbing events begin occurring around her, she gets a feeling that the baby is a demon in disguise.
Where to Watch Tiyanak
Looking for where to watch Tiyanak?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Tiyanak - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Peque Gallaga
- Lore Reyes
Main Cast
- Janice de Belen
- Smokey Manaloto
- Carmina Villarroel
- Ramon Christopher
- Bella Flores
- Lotlot De Leon
- Mary Walter
- Chuckie Dreyfuss
- Zorayda Sanchez
- Suzanne Gonzales
Writers
- Lore Reyes
- Don Escudero
Producers
- Jenny Luber
Tiyanak - FAQs
What is the tiyanak in Philippine folklore?
In Philippine mythology, the tiyanak is a malevolent creature that takes the form of a helpless infant to lure and attack unsuspecting victims, particularly childless women. It is said to be the spirit of an unbaptized or aborted child, transformed into a demonic entity capable of shapeshifting and great violence.
Where can you watch Tiyanak online?
Tiyanak (1988) is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video. Streaming availability may vary by region, so checking JustWatch is recommended for the most current options in your area.
Is Tiyanak based on a true story or folklore?
Tiyanak is rooted in genuine Philippine mythology rather than a specific true story. The tiyanak is a well-documented creature in Filipino folklore, believed to be a demonic infant spirit. The film draws on these indigenous legends to craft its supernatural horror narrative.
Who are the main actors in Tiyanak?
The film stars Janice de Belen as Julie, Smokey Manaloto as Boy, Carmina Villarroel as Monica, Ramon Christopher as Jojo, and Bella Flores as Tita Sarah, alongside Lotlot De Leon, Mary Walter, Chuckie Dreyfuss, Zorayda Sanchez, and Suzanne Gonzales.
When was Tiyanak released?
Tiyanak was released on September 12, 1988, in the Philippines with an R rating. It was produced by Regal Entertainment and went on to become one of the most celebrated horror films in Philippine cinema history.
Does Tiyanak have an alternate title?
Yes. Tiyanak was released under the alternate title Goblin in the United Kingdom. This international title was likely chosen to make the film more accessible to Western audiences unfamiliar with the specific Filipino folklore creature at the center of the story.
Who directed the 1988 horror film Tiyanak?
Tiyanak was co-directed by Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes, a celebrated filmmaking duo in Philippine cinema. Gallaga is widely regarded as one of the most visually inventive directors in Filipino film history, known for blending folklore with striking cinematic craft.
What genre is Tiyanak and what is it about?
Tiyanak is a Drama, Horror, and Thriller film. It follows a childless woman who adopts an abandoned infant, only to experience increasingly disturbing events that lead her to suspect the baby is a demon in disguise, drawing on deep-rooted Philippine supernatural folklore.
More About Tiyanak
Explore further details and official listings for Tiyanak on these trusted databases.