Tiyanak is a 1988 Filipino horror film directed by Peque Gallaga and Lorenzo A. Reyes from a story and screenplay they co-written with Don Escudero, based on the mythical creature of the same name.
[2][3][4] Though other critics were disappointed with the film, Tiyanak received praise from Lav Diaz for being remarkably frightening.
[6] Meg Mendoza of the Manila Standard was more negative, writing that the film had predictable and manipulative horror scenes, as well as tedious pacing, though she commended the special effects and the performances of Villarroel and Manaloto.
Overall, Mendoza expressed disappointment, stating that "we could hardly believe it was directed by award-winning director Peque Gallaga, who gave us the magnum opus Oro, Plata, Mata.
"[8] In 2000, historian Ambeth Ocampo stated that "[Tiyanak] is a horror film so camp and funny it is downright memorable.