Kaori and Elyson get candid about character prep, on-set bonding, and working with Direk Dodo in “True Manila Encounters: Occupant”
Behind Manila’s historic landmarks and crowded streets are stories of unsettling encounters that have left ordinary people haunted. iWant brings these firsthand ghost stories to life in their latest limited horror anthology “True Manila Encounters,” taking the real-life thrills to a whole new level.
One of its most chilling stories unfolds in “Occupant,” starring Kaori Oinuma and Elyson de Dios. Directed by Dodo Dayao, the episode follows Ana and Jam, a couple in a long-distance relationship, as Ana becomes haunted by a sinister presence that distorts her sense of reality. As Ana slips deeper into danger, Jam races against time to save her—and their relationship.
In a behind-the-scenes reel, Kaori Oinuma opened up about the challenges of bringing Ana’s story to life, admitting that she initially struggled to portray the character because she had never experienced anything paranormal herself. “Totoo ba na nararamdaman talaga ’to ng mga tao?” she wondered.
Describing Ana as an independent woman, Kaori explained that this aspect of the character helped her immerse herself more deeply in the role and better understand Ana’s fears. “So in that way, [naisip ko], what if iba talaga ‘yung tingin sa akin at sinusundan talaga nila ako?” she shared.
Playing Jam, Elyson de Dios described his character as a loving and devoted boyfriend to Ana. Aside from the scenes he shared with Kaori, most of which took place through video calls, Elyson admitted that he found the role relatively easy to portray.
Although thrillers are nothing new to Kaori, who previously starred in the iWant Original “Fractured,” she noted that “Occupant” was a different experience because of the raw emotions it required. Reflecting on her approach to the role, she shared, “Madali talaga mag-imagine na ‘what if may sumusunod talaga sa akin?’”
Looking back on their time on set, Kaori had nothing but kind words for her co-star Paolo O’Hara, revealing that they quickly bonded during filming. Elyson, meanwhile, praised Kaori’s performance, saying she brought Ana to life convincingly. He also commended Dodo Dayao for his hands-on approach to directing, adding, “Hindi ka niya pababayaan.”
Having taken a break from acting, Kaori revealed that she initially felt nervous about returning to the craft, particularly for a horror project. She shared that she even took the time to learn more about Direk Dodo’s background and personality before filming. Fortunately, she found reassurance in his fatherly presence on set.
“Kung may gusto kang idagdag, willing to listen din siya.” For Kaori, that openness made the episode feel like a truly collaborative effort among the cast and crew.
Experience the haunting real-life stories in “True Manila Encounters.” Watch “Occupant” episode, now streaming exclusively on iWant!
Catch its episodes via iWant’s subscription plans starting at P35 per month in the Philippines, USD 12.99 per month in the United States, and USD 4.99 per month in the rest of the world.
Enjoy all the feels you want, only on iWant, the largest library of Filipino feels. Download the app via Google Play or the Apple App Store.