Aaron-Taylor Johnson, Jodie Comer, and Alfie Williams play a family fighting to survive in the hostile, infected world of “28 Years Later”

 

In PH cinemas June 18

28 Years Later explores a world that’s been continuously ravaged by the rage virus, turning millions of people into infected in the original 28 Days Later. In the center of the story is a family living in an isolated island community, trying to make the best out of a horrific reality. Director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland wanted the film to be a family story, and explore the dynamics in a bleak environment. “Alex came up with this idea centered around a family. It is inventive writing, in a way that was exciting for everyone involved and helped make us feel like we were making an original film, and not a sequel,” Boyle explains.

Watch the “Imagine” vignette with Danny Boyle and Alex Garland: https://youtu.be/IVmByrbreJE

The family consists of Jamie (Aaron-Taylor Johnson), a loving and protective husband. Isla (Jodie Comer) is Jamie’s wife who has been stricken with an undiagnosed illness, and rounding off the group is their son Spike (Alfie Williams), who has been honing his survival skills under his father.

Johnson sees Jamie as someone who’s trying his best to make the most of the harsh situation. “Everyone on the island has adapted to a tribal way of living, to protect themselves from the horrors awaiting them on the mainland,” he says. “They’ve had to become ingrained in a survivalist way of living.”

Johnson emphasises Jamie’s love for his family, which often manifests in misguided ways, especially in training his young son Spike. “You see the pressure that Jamie is putting on him to grow up a little bit quicker than he is supposed to,” Taylor-Johnson continues. “He’s trying to give Spike the tools he needs in this new world. Jamie wants Spike to have his independence. There is so much heart and soul between the father and the son.”

Other than the special connection between father and son, Spike is also devoted to his ailing mother Isla.  “Spike and Isla provide a real thread of humanity and emotion, while coping and surviving in this incredibly dangerous situation,” says Jodie Comer.

Isla’s illness increases the danger for the family, putting tension between her and her husband Jamie, but in the end, Comer feels like the family is strong because of their love of one another. “Isla’s illness has put a lot of strain on her marriage. Still, Aaron, Danny, and I were always clear that it was a relationship that came from love, and that Jamie wants the best for Isla,” she says”

Young Alfie Williams has all been adopted by Johnson as the actor took his on-screen son under his wing, which Boyle felt like added to the sincerity of their relationship in the film. “Aaron loved taking responsibility for Alfie, looking after a young lad who was experiencing it all for the first time,” he says. “I’d often find Aaron teaching Alfie about breathing and making sure he was ready for a scene. The other beautiful thing is that we’d see Alfie begin to copy Aaron in his prep.”

A family fights for survival in 28 Years Later arriving in Philippine cinemas on June 18. 28 Years Later is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #28YearsLater and tag @columbiapicph

Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures” 

AYALA MALLS CINEMAS EXCLUSIVELY BRINGS THAI HORROR MOVIE “DON’T SLEEP,” STARRING ATIWAT SAENGTIEN OF “PEE NAK,” TO SCARE UP PHILIPPINE THEATERS STARTING JUNE 4

 

Photo credit: Viva International Pictures / Ayala Malls Cinemas

Are you ready to face your darkest fears? 

Ayala Malls Cinemas is exclusively bringing to Philippine theaters another Asian horror film this coming month. Following last year’s zombie-themed “Operation Undead,” comes the Thai horror-thriller “Don’t Sleep,” starring Atiwat Saengtien (“Pee Nak” comedy-horror movie series) and Pantipa Arunwattanachai (“Oh My Ghost: The Finale”). Opening only in cinemas June 4, “Don’t Sleep” is rated R-16. 

Watch the trailer: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1217415273350723 

“Don’t Sleep” is a supernatural horror-thriller set against the backdrop of modern-day Thailand, blending ancient Thai folklore with contemporary themes of guilt, grief, and redemption. The film follows a group of friends who inadvertently awaken dark spirits while playing with a mystical version of a Ouija board, called Pee Tuey Gaew, which plunges them into a harrowing battle for survival. The film explores deep psychological struggles and the haunting effects of unresolved trauma, using supernatural elements as metaphors for the inner demons the characters face. 

Photo credit: Viva International Pictures / Ayala Malls Cinemas

To create an eerie, unsettling atmosphere with a dark and almost dreamlike quality, “We shot the film with low-key lighting to keep much of the danger hidden in the shadows, allowing the audience’s imagination to fill in the gaps,” says director Krittanut Watcharanuntagul. “Each location is designed to feel claustrophobic, as though the walls are closing in on the characters. I wanted to create a sense of isolation and entrapment – whether the characters are in a cramped bar or navigating the ghostly spirit world, they can’t escape their fate.”

For the spirit world scenes, the creative crew used slightly distorted lenses, practical effects and camera trickery. The decision not to rely heavily on CGI made the ghosts feel more tactile and haunting. 

Photo credit: Viva International Pictures / Ayala Malls Cinemas

Horror fans expecting the uniquely Thai horror experience will not be disappointed. “Don’t Sleep” began as a collaborative effort between co-writers and directors Sathanapong Limwongthong and Watcharanuntagul, whose shared love for traditional Thai folklore and modern horror influenced the script. Inspired by local ghost stories and spiritual beliefs, they aimed to craft a narrative that was both uniquely Thai and universally terrifying.  

Photo credit: Viva International Pictures / Ayala Malls Cinemas

Filming was done over 15 days in Bangkok, which helped showcase the duality of modern and ancient Thailand. The film’s score blended traditional Thai music with modern horror motifs, using dissonant strings and percussive elements to heighten suspense during key moments. 

Experience all the haunting and creepy elements the filmmakers used in “Don’t Sleep” by watching it with friends at Ayala Malls Cinemas, a premiere movie-watching destination for film enthusiasts, thanks to their regular exclusives that include award-winning films and movies that are not easily available elsewhere, such as Asian titles like “Don’t Sleep” and the ongoing “A-Rewind” Series, featuring Filipino classics that have been restored and best enjoyed once again on the big screen. 

The movie-watching experience is also enhanced at Ayala Malls Cinemas with the features they offer, such as plush seating with generous legroom, cutting-edge laser projections that display sharper images, and top-notch Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos technologies that enhance audio depth – perfect for watching horror movies in which sounds add to the fright factor. 

Cinema patrons also get to treat themselves to delicious snacks from The Movie Snackbar, such as different-flavored popcorn, hotdog sandwiches and yummy burgers, paired with ice-cold beverages.

Photo credit: Viva International Pictures / Ayala Malls Cinemas

Don’t miss “Don’t Sleep,” a haunting horror-thriller that combines traditional Thai folklore with modern horror storytelling, opening exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas on June 4. Book your tickets now by visiting www.sureseats.com or any of the participating cinemas. Visit the Ayala Malls Cinemas FB and IG pages for updates!  

KARATE KID LEGENDS : Three Men and A Kid Expands The Karate Universe

By : Edgar Allan E. Yu 

In a world of cinematic legacies, KARATE KID LEGENDS stands out as a remarkable continuation of a beloved franchise. The film beautifully embodies the concept of "two branches, one tree," intertwining nostalgia with novelty in a way that resonates deeply with fans old and new. The one and only Jackie Chan, at 71, continues to kick ass and bring joy to audiences—his charisma is as infectious as ever. Even though Ralph Macchio (the original Karate Kid) has limited screen time, his presence serves as a heartwarming reminder of where it all began.

Ben Wang is a great addition to the franchise. He allegedly beat out 10,000+ hopefuls to get the role. He's very likeable and has the acting chops to make it in Hollywood. Coupled with the delightful performances from Joshua Jackson and Sadie Stanley (of Kim Possible fame) as the father-daughter duo, the film's cast shines brightly. And let’s not forget Ming Na-Wen (the voice of Mulan) - her involvement adds an extra layer of quality to this already stellar ensemble.

Some critics may dismiss it as formulaic or predictable, but I found immense joy in watching this film. The fight scenes are top-notch and expertly choreographed, capturing the spirit of martial arts while delivering thrilling moments that keep you engaged with the film. Ultimately, KARATE KID LEGENDS managed to evoke happy tears - a testament to its ability to connect emotionally with viewers. If you're looking for an entertaining ride filled with action and heartwarming moments, this film should definitely be on your watchlist !  

LOOK UP! “SUPERMAN” FILMMAKERS JAMES GUNN AND PETER SAFRAN AND STARS DAVID CORENSWET AND RACHEL BROSNAHAN TO VISIT THE PHILIPPINES ON JUNE 19 AHEAD OF THE DC STUDIOS’ FILM’S SUMMER RELEASE FROM WARNER BROS. PICTURES

 

 

May 30, Manila - Superman is flying all over the world. His first stop: Manila, Philippines.  

 

In a post shared on Instagram today, James Gunn, Peter Safran, David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan announced their upcoming world tour for this summer’s epic action adventure “Superman” – and Manila is their very first stop! “‘Superman’ is coming to a city near you,” they teased in the video.  

 

Watch the announcement here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1G7NXMaaPb/  

 

The film’s writer/director/co-producer Gunn, Superman/Clark Kent himself Corenswet, Brosnahan, who plays Lois Lane, and new Lex Luthor Hoult will be joined by Gunn’s fellow DC Studios head and co-producer Peter Safran. “Superman” opens only in cinemas and IMAX July 9.  

 

During their visit, the team will meet their Filipino fans in a fan event at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on June 19.  

 

Gunn has said about “Superman”: “This project is more than just a movie to me. It’s a story about humanity, about what it means to be a hero in a world that doesn’t always make it easy to be one. I can’t wait for you to see it. The heart, the action, and the incredible performances from David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult and the entire cast.” 

 

Watch the “Superman” official trailer: https://youtu.be/KRCa-7ck7uM  

 

“Superman” is DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen. In his signature style, Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind. Gunn is producing the film with his fellow DC Studios head Safran. Joining Corenswet, Brosnahan and Hoult in the cast are Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, Isabela Merced, Skyler Gisondo, Sara Sampaio, María Gabriela de Faría, Wendell Pierce, Alan Tudyk, Pruitt Taylor Vince and Neva Howell. 

 

Check out images from the film below.  

 

#Superman 

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures 

 

Warner Bros. Pictures has another special treat for Filipino fans. To find out, remember to LOOK UP at the SM Mall of Asia globe in Pasay, or at The Victor at Bridgetowne in Pasig, at 7:00 PM tonight!  

 

“Superman” will soar into theaters and IMAX nationwide on July 9, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. 

 

 

About “Superman” 

DC Studios Presents a Troll Court Entertainment/The Safran Company Production, A James Gunn Film, “Superman,” which will be in theaters and IMAX® nationwide on July 11, 2025, and internationally beginning 9 July 2025, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. 

 

Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #SupermanPH 

 

Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures” 

 

HOPE Launches Generation HOPE with Filipino Brands to Build Classrooms for the Next Generation

 PRESS RELEASE 

Generation HOPE is a partnership between HOPE, the Department of Education, and beloved Filipino brands BDO, Carmen’s Best, Grab, Penshoppe, Aivee Clinic, SM Supermalls, and Sunnies. In the photo are (from left) Grab Philippines Country Head Ronald Roda, BDO Unibank Senior Executive Vice President and Head of the Consumer Banking Group Rolando Tanchanco, Sunnies Studios Co-founder and Head of Product Development Bea Soriano-Dee, SM Investments Corporation Vice Chairwoman Teresita Sy-Coson, Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, HOPE Founder Nanette Medved-Po, HOPE Board Member Tootsy Angara, SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, The Aivee Group Founder and President Aivee Teo, Golden ABC President and Chief Executive Officer Alice Liu, and Metro Pacific Agro Ventures Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer Jovy Hernandez.

HOPE, the Philippines’ first certified B Corp and a pioneering impact organization, launches Generation HOPE—a partnership with the country’s most beloved brands to help address the urgent need of building more public school classrooms nationwide.

This initiative brings together the country's most beloved brands, such as BDO, Carmen’s Best, Grab, Penshoppe, Aivee Clinic, SM Supermalls, and Sunnies, to enable every Filipino to vote with their peso to support nation-building through the building of public school classrooms. Together, these purpose-driven companies and their consumers share a vision to close the education gap and make sure every Filipino child has a safe, comfortable place to learn.

HOPE Founder Ms. Nanette Medved-Po and DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara place a puzzle piece on the HOPE Wall—a symbolic gesture of partnership and shared commitment to building a brighter future for public school students across the Philippines.

Launched in partnership with the Philippines’ Department of Education (DepEd), Generation HOPE was unveiled with the support of HOPE Founder Nanette Medved-Po, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, and the participation of representatives from DepEd and all the brand partners.

HOPE Founder Ms. Nanette Medved-Po speaks about the Generation HOPE campaign and its mission to bring together communities, partners, and everyday consumers to support public school education in the Philippines.

“Filipinos always come together in times of need. In a world that is increasingly divided, let's harness that power every day to support something we can all agree on: investing in the youth of this country to build a nation and ensure a brighter future,” says HOPE Founder Ms. Nanette Medved-Po.

To bring this vision to life, HOPE and its partner brands have created unique ways for Filipinos to enjoy being part of this movement.

BDO customers will soon be able to own a BDO “HOPE in Every Spend” credit card, and a portion of their spend using the credit card will automatically be donated to building public schools. More than that, they can convert their Rewards points into donations, and a portion of the annual membership fee will also be donated to HOPE.

Carmen’s Best is preparing limited-edition offerings—Hope in a Scoop and Hope in a Pint—that blend indulgence with impact. 

Grab users will have the option to use GrabRewards points to support classroom construction and make donations. 

Aivee Clinic will introduce the Aivee x HOPE collection, featuring limited edition items like bags and tags, along with specially designed Skin Bank cards for the cause.

Penshoppe is launching an exclusive line of HOPE-themed t-shirts, hoodies, caps, and bags. 

SM Supermalls will donate a portion of sales from SM-branded water bottles sold at partner food merchants. 

Sunnies will unveil a clean lens kit and specially designed Sunnies Flask for this collaboration.

Each product from the partnership offers a simple, tangible way to help build a better future through education. 

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara talks about how the Generation HOPE campaign helps address the classroom shortage in public schools, strengthening the foundation of quality education for Filipino students.

Working closely with DepEd, HOPE ensures that every classroom built directly addresses the most urgent needs of public schools across the country. 

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara highlights the importance of collaboration in this cause. He said, “Education is not just a duty, it’s a solemn responsibility we all share. When the government and the private sector unite through partnerships like Generation HOPE, we break down barriers and pave the way for every Filipino child to learn in a safe and inspiring environment. Education is how we secure the future of our nation.”

For more information, please visit https://www.generationhope.ph/ or follow HOPE on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/generationhope.ph or @generationhope.ph on Instagram for more updates. 

Get ready to fall in love in the new trailer of “Materialists,” the newest romcom from A24 and Celine Song

 

Coming soon in PH theaters

She’s the perfect matchmaker, but who is her perfect match? Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal are caught up in a love triangle in Materialists, the newest romcom from A24. The film is directed by Past Lives director Celine Song.

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/oZSFKLV_Bu8

Materialists is out to catch people’s hearts in Philippine theaters soon.

About Materialists:

Materialists is written and directed by Celine Song, and produced by David Hinojosa, Christine Vachon, Pamela Koffler, Celine Song. The film stars Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal.

Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures” 

What will the world become? Danny Boyle and Alex Garland takes us back into a virus-ravaged world in “28 Years Later”

 

In PH cinemas June 18

Director and writer duo Danny Boyle and Alex Garland reunite to explore a world ravaged by the rage virus, decades after the initial outbreak, in 28 Years Later. The film stars Jodie Comer, Aaron-Taylor Johnson, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Williams, and Ralph Fiennes as survivors fighting for ways to exist amidst the infected. Sequestering themselves in a small island, the group of survivors discover secrets and horrors far beyond the one currently sweeping across the country,

Watch the “Imagine” vignette with Danny Boyle and Alex Garland: https://youtu.be/8lo8rDf5ZGo

28 Years Later is partially set in Holy Island, with the community seeking safety from the infected by way of the causeway, the single entry point to the haven. “The island and causeway felt like a great starting point for our story,” Boyle elaborates, “because the causeway can be defended when it’s exposed by the tide. A community could thrive. Instead of a post-apocalyptic state, it looks like a town from the turn of the twentieth century. But the mainland then becomes somewhere ‘over there,’ offering both promise and threat.”

With such an isolated setting, Boyle feels like they can get the most out of the characters put inside the community. “With this kind of film we can explore characters by deciding what rules they’re setting and following. It helps define how they think, what they prioritize, and who they are.” 

For writer Garland, the type of society this infection brought forth feels like an accurate human reaction, mirroring the fact that the plague-ridden Britain is also isolated from the rest of the world. “We considered what the infection would look like,” he remembers. “What happens to the country being quarantined and essentially abandoned by the rest of the world?” 

He draws from the real world to try and answer those questions. “There’s a kind of ruthless, pragmatic, dog-eat-dog dimension to the ways things play out when a nation collapses. Broadly speaking, people not affected by the collapse ignore it and just go about their lives,” he says.

For producer Andrew Macdonald, the timing of 28 Years Later couldn’t be more perfect. “We wanted to make a film with a unique kind of epic scale. Using 28 Years Later to accomplish that has been very exciting. It felt like the perfect time for us to return to the infected,” he says.

Find out what it takes to survive as 28 Years Later arrives in Philippine cinemas on June 18. 28 Years Later is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #28YearsLater and tag @columbiapicph

Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”