Fyang Smith’s steady rise in Philippine entertainment has reached another milestone—this time alongside some of the country’s biggest names in film.

The rising actress has been announced as part of the cast of Haunted Carnival, Regal Entertainment’s horror entry to the 52nd Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). The film brings together an ensemble led by Julia Barretto, James Reid, Maricel Soriano, John Arcilla, making it one of the most high-profile projects in Smith’s career so far. 

For Smith, the project also continues her “scream queen” era after appearing in Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins, she returns to familiar territory in Haunted Carnival—this time in a much larger ensemble and on one of Philippine cinema’s biggest annual stages.

The casting also marks a rare opportunity for the young actress to work alongside performers from different generations. From sharing scenes with Maricel Soriano, whose decades-long career has made her one of Philippine cinema’s most respected actresses, to starring opposite Julia Barretto, who has built a reputation through both commercial and genre films, 

Directed by Joey De Guzman, Haunted Carnival also reunites Barretto and Reid on the big screen. While plot details remain under wraps, the film is expected to blend supernatural horror with the eerie backdrop of a mysterious carnival, continuing Regal Entertainment’s long-standing tradition of bringing horror to the MMFF.

Haunted Carnival joins three other entries Amir, 2nd Miracle in Cell No. 7, and The Greatest Showdown as the first four official entries to the 52nd Metro Manila Film Festival, which opens in cinemas on December 25.