HALLOWEEN (2018) - The best sequel to the original !

Can't believe it's been 40 years since the first movie was released. John Carpenter directed that first film which became an instant classic. I've been a huge fan of the early Halloween movies, and since then there have been many sequels that followed - some good, some bad.

Over the years, I lost interest in watching the sequels because they weren't as fresh and scary anymore. Now 40 years after, this new film is made as a direct sequel to the first flick, and rejects all the other sequels that came after 1978. And the movie delivers ! Jamie Lee Curtis is back in her most iconic role, and the narrative is written very well. It's not perfect, but it's good enough ! The bogeyman is scary and menacing again.

It's nice to see Laurie Strode as the aging woman who has prepared all these years for the return of her nemesis. She's older, wiser, and a bad-ass grandma. Her family doesn't see her that way though. They think she's paranoid and crazy, and she's not exactly welcome to their home. Michael Myers' background in the previous sequels are no more. No details on his character or reason for killing. He's just pure evil.

Some supporting characters seem to have some stories to tell, but in the end, they didn't really matter. Only Laurie Strode and Michael Myers are what keeps the audience from dozing off.

This is the sequel that die-hard (pun intended) fans have been waiting to see, and it's what they rightfully deserve. It's the best sequel to the original Halloween film. Directed by David Gordon Green. From Universal Pictures. Rated R.

We will ! We will rock you ! In IMAX at SM Cinema !

Press Release
IMAX at SM Cinema Rocks your World in Bohemian Rhapsody

IMAX at SM Cinema will rock your world as it takes you to the life of one of the world’s most beloved musicians and entertainers of all time in upcoming film Bohemian Rhapsody!

Considered as one of the legends of the musical world, Freddie Mercury (Rami Malek), the lead singer and front man of British rock band, Queen, was once just an aspiring singer. In his quest to stardom, he went through countless rejections and disappointments. But against all odds, together with his bandmates, Brian May (Gwilym Lee), Roger Taylor (Ben Hardy), and John Deacon (Joseph Mazzello), we see the meteoric rise of the now legendary band that changed the musical landscape forever.
Get ready for an unforgettable cinematic and musical experience as Bohemian Rhapsody has been digitally remastered for The IMAX Experience® with proprietary IMAX DMR® (Digital Re-mastering) technology. With topnotch equipment and high-quality audiovisuals, you can feel the rush and excitement of being in a live Queen concert.
Catch Bohemian Rhapsody starting October 31 at any SM Cinema branch near you. Book your tickets through the website, www.smcinema.com or download the SM Cinema mobile app.  You may also follow /SMCinema on Facebook and @SM_Cinema on Instagram for updates!

Catch your FIRST LOVE at SM Cinema !

Follow your Heart in “First Love” at SM Cinema

Do you believe in destiny? Many people don’t but Paul Soriano’s First Love will teach you to believe and follow your heart as it opens in SM Cinema this October.

When destiny moves, nobody can stop it and that’s where First Love picks up as it follows the destined encounter of two opposite people. Nick (Aga Muhlach), a composed and calculated businessman, and Ali (Bea Alonzo), an optimistic photographer who believes in destiny and carpe diem, or seizing the day, accidentally met and later on, share something special. As they say, opposites attract.
As the romance between Nick and Ali blooms, Ali will also have to face her life having a congenital heart disease that awaits for a heart transplant. Given this situation, Ali dares Nick to do everything to seize every moment they are together before it’s too late. Will the destiny move again to create a way for these two lovers?
Catch First Love in SM Cinema branches nationwide. You may also book your tickets through the website, www.smcinema.com or download the SM Cinema mobile app.  Just stay tuned and follow /SMCinema on Facebook and @SM_Cinema on Instagram for updates!

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#AyokoNgPlastik

Media Release

     
WWF-Philippines, Ayala Malls, and partners launch #AyokoNgPlastik movement

Uniting under the call to end plastic pollution, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines, together with Ayala Malls and other partner corporations, officially launched the #AyokoNgPlastik movement at Glorietta 2 Activity Center.

With eight million tons of plastic ending up in oceans every year, the Philippines ranks as the world’s third plastic polluter of oceans. The #AyokoNgPlastik movement hopes to address these alarming facts by bringing together companies, individuals, and other sectors to minimize and eventually put a stop to single-use plastics such as straws, bags, bottles, and cups. Refusing these is a simple yet strong first step that individuals can take to commit to a sustainable lifestyle, especially since the harm that these materials cause directly affect humans.

“Plastic pollution is a serious threat not only to marine life but to human life as well. Plastics don’t completely degenerate and just break down into small pieces ─ microplastics ─ which are ingested by the fish that we eat. The possibility of plastics ending up on dinner plates is a serious concern and a health hazard,” said Joel Palma, WWF-Philippines President and CEO.

The movement is one of the major projects of WWF-Philippines this year. Initiated by its Next Generation Council (NGC), the goal is to raise awareness and encourage individuals to live more consciously and for businesses to operate more sustainably. Introduced during the event, the NGC is made up of young movers and shakers who heeded the call to spread WWF-Philippines’ conservation thrusts. Headed by The Net Group Chair Raymond Rufino, members include television host and columnist Stephanie Zubiri-Crespi, Philux COO Stephanie Kienle-Gonzalez, Magsaysay Transport and Logistics COO Jesse Maxwell, Teach for the Philippines CEO Clarissa Delgado, The Moment Group Co-Founder and Creative Director Abba Napa, and former WWF-Philippines National Youth Council Chairperson Alexa Cancio.

"Driven by deep concern, every member of the NGC is volunteering time, energy and resources to reduce single-use plastic pollution in the country.  The challenge is daunting but we are determined and committed," stated Rufino.

Ayala Malls, one of the biggest shopping mall developers in the Philippines, has also expressed support for the movement. As part of the Ayala group of companies (recognized by the United Nations as a sustainable development pioneer), Ayala Malls is committed to driving sustainable business and living practices across their many developments.

“Sustainability has long been a priority for Ayala Malls and we’re especially proud to have the chance to continue the momentum with WWF. We launched our initial campaign in 2009, with the aim to bring focus to the importance of sustainable living, and last year we established our intent for no plastic shopping bags across Ayala Malls. We are thrilled to have found a partner in WWF for #AyokoNgPlastik campaign, as we work together for a more sustainable future for the Philippines,” said Mariana Zobel de Ayala, Ayala Malls Deputy Head.

In addition to Ayala Malls, other official partners of the #AyokoNgPlastik movement present during the event include National Geographic, Bellevue Hotels and Resorts, Bo's Coffee, Corkcicle, Coffee Project, Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort, Puerto Pension Inn, foodpanda, HSBC, Impact Hub Manila, IVO, The Lind Boracay, The Moment Group, Toby's Estate, CIBO, and CNN-Philippines.

“We’re very grateful to have a number of companies join the movement this early on. With their involvement, it makes it easier for Filipinos to veer away from plastic and choose a sustainable alternative instead. We’re hoping to get more partners to participate in this cause,” Palma remarked.

WWF-Philippines National Ambassadors Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez, who hosted the kickoff event, both stressed the importance of every Filipino’s participation in the movement and how this can contribute to positive environmental change by stating how cleaning up oceans and coastlines is essential in restoring marine life and reiterating the importance of preventing pollutants from entering the oceans.

“We’re very happy to see the growing number of people interested in beach cleanups. Now the challenge we must all take is to go beyond the beach and do whatever it takes to reduce our own carbon footprint,” Fernandez said.

“The amount of trash being collected during cleanups is just unimaginable. Everyone needs to realize that our trash is never actually gone and just ends up somewhere else. We need to be responsible travelers and consumers and avoid single-use plastics and recycle what we can,” Nelson added.

If production and usage of plastic remain unchanged, experts predict that there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050. Everyone is invited to take part in the #AyokoNgPlastik movement and can find more details through WWF-Philippines’ social media pages or the official #AyokoNgPlastik Facebook group, which now has almost 3,000 members since its launch 2 months ago.

JOHNNY ENGLISH STRIKES AGAIN

The world's No. 1 spy (not !) is forced out of retirement when a cyberattack identifies all the active undercover agents in Britain. With no one else to turn to, the British Prime Minister (Emma Thompson) seeks the help of Johnny English to catch the perpetrator.

This is the third in the series which started from 2003's Johnny English, and followed by 2011's Johnny English Reborn. This is, of course, a parody of James Bond's 007 which makes use of Rowan Atkinson's brand of comedy. And we have a former Bond girl (Olga Kurylenko) as a mysterious double agent.

At age 63, Atkinson still has that perfect timing, and the physical agility to perform his antics on screen. Yes it's slapstick, but still funny as hell ! There were several comedic scenes which can be expected from Atkinson but my favorite is that Virtual Reality scene. Johnny English, being the old school that he is, isn't particularly fond of modern gadgets. But he has to learn to navigate the hackers' work station to better catch him. It's a long, hilarious scene which took him to downtown London.

Call it what you like - silly, stupid, outlandish; but you gotta give the man credit for still being able to dance like a crazed chimpanzee ! It's really a laugh-out-loud comedy ! If you like Mr. Bean, you will enjoy this one too ! From Universal Pictures. Directed by David Kerr. Rated PG. Photos c/o United International Pictures.

A STAR IS BORN (2018) - definitely Oscar worthy !

This is the updated and fourth iteration of the same movie. It's a fresh take on the classic story. Bradley Cooper is Jackson Maine, a famous country rock star, who discovers Ally (Lady Gaga) in a drag bar, and eventually falls for her. Ally, who's day job is a waitress, have given up all her dreams of becoming a star. Because most of the folks she met in the music industry liked her songs, but not her looks. Jackson thinks otherwise.

I'm not a big fan of Lady Gaga, although I like some of her songs. After this movie, I'm taking another look at her. She's a natural as an actor, and she has risen from other singers who have tried acting before her. Bradley Cooper who has been nominated a number of times, surprisingly sings very well. I learned that he took some voice lessons for 18 months before embarking on this role. And the results were outstanding ! And Cooper also served as co-writer, co-producer, co-songwriter, and first-time director for this film.

The songs were mostly originals - written specifically for this film. "Shallow" is an instant favorite, and could likely win the Best Song in the Oscars.

Also worth mentioning are the supporting cast. Sam Elliot as the older brother/manager of Jackson, and Andrew Dice Clay as the father of Ally both gave notable performances.

This film is not just a simple love story, it's a complex tale of discovery, a cinderella story, of success and failure, substance abuse, tragedy, family ties, drama, comedy, and musical. It's one of those movies that people will talk about for a long, long time.

Both Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga got their roles of a lifetime. It will be hard to follow this act. Expect nominations for Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Song, Best Director, and Best Picture. From Warner Bros. Pictures. Rated R.

Marvel's Movie Marathon @ SM Cinema !

PRESS RELEASE
SM Cinema teams up with Marvel Studios for the biggest Marvel Movie Marathon in the country !

To kick-off Marvel Studios’ 10th year mark in the enterainment scene, SM Cinema joined forces with The Walt Disney Company Philippines to bring back not one but 16 Marvel Studios films in theaters for the most ambitious movie exhibition of the year, the Marvel Movie Marathon!
The Marvel Movie Marathon features 16 of the biggest titles from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films namely: Iron Man, Captain America: The First Avenger, Thor, The Avengers, Thor: The Dark World, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Ant-Man, Captain America: Civil War, Doctor Strange, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Thor: Ragnarok, Black Panther, Ant-Man and The Wasp, and Avengers: Infinity War.
Marvel movie buffs can purchase a ticket at PhP 100.00 per movie or an all-movie bundle for the 16 films at only PhP 1,200.00. You can also have a chance to secure advance tickets of the highly-anticipated Marvel Studios film, Captain Marvel which will be groundbreaking in theaters in March 2019.
So what are you waiting for? Be part of Marvel Studios’ biggest year as it celebrates its 10th anniversary, starting off with the Marvel Movie Marathon at SM Cinema!
Catch the movies in select SM Cinema branches in SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM City Davao, SM Seaside Cebu, SM City Manila, SM City Sta. Mesa, SM Aura Premier and SM City Fairview from October 13 to 21. You may also book your tickets through the website, www.smcinema.com or download the SM Cinema mobile app.  Just stay tuned and follow /SMCinema on Facebook and @SM_Cinema on Instagram for updates!

SM Cinema’s 1st Sine-Sindak Horror Film Festival!

PRESS RELEASE
Get ready to scream in SM Cinema’s 1st Sine-Sindak Horror Film Festival!

This coming Halloween, prepare yourselves to be horrified and get ready for your loudest scream as SM Cinema, the largest film exhibitor in the country, together with CrystalSky Multimedia, a key distributor of internationally renowned films, brings you the scariest film fest of the year, the 1st ever Sine-Sindak Horror Film Festival!
Sine-Sindak features eight (8) international horror movies that will surely send shivers down your spine.
The Hoarder (USA)

Ella (Mischa Barton) discovers her boyfriend is renting a secret storage unit, which she initially thought her partner is using as a hideout for his affair. Unfortunately, she together with her best friend Molly (Emily Atack), discover something more terrifying instead. She will also meet a group of strangers to help her face a deranged killer lurking in the darkness.
The Dead Room (USA)

Witness the terrifying ordeal of two cynical scientists (Jed Brophy and Jeffrey Thomas) and a young psychic (Laura Petersen) as they encounter a powerful spirit protecting the secrets of an old farm house.
Urban Evil (South Korea)

An award-winning movie from South Korea, Urban Evil will follow the story of a mutant boy who must face the uncanny exorcisms in his home town.
The Evil In Us (USA)

Join Brie Armstrong (Debs Howard) finds her way to survival after her friends became infected by a virus from a drug disguised as cocaine that causes psychotic rage. Brie must endure the deadly game of cat and mouse as she and a detective unravel the mystery behind the drug.
Darkness Rising (USA)

Madison (Tara Holt) together with her friends, Jake (Bryce Johnson) and Izzy (Katrina Law), visits their old house where her family was massacred. And as the lone survivor, she looks for her mysterious past but unfortunately, she also awakens the detrimental evil residing there.
Hollow One (USA)

Rachel Wade (Kate Alden) and her younger sister go to an isolated community and find their missing father after the tragic death of their mother. Instead of getting answers, Rachel must face her family’s dark history and a mysterious figure to fight for their survival.
The Lost Case (Thailand)
A Thai movie, The Lost Case follows the story of two newbies in a production company producing a popular television show called Ghost Doctor TV. They were assigned into a suicide case and as they continue investigating, the two are about to deal with the most horrifying and terrifying encounters of their lives!
Grace (Thailand)
Another movie from Thailand, Grace features a girl with the name, Grace, as she and her brother plan to kidnap Care, a famous internet idol. Grace, also a former internet idol will show the world how crazy and pathetic she is as she tortures the internet personality.
As a treat to the brave moviegoers, a Sine-Sindak Horror Film Festival ticket is priced at Php 99.00. And for those who want to finish the scary ride and enjoy all the horror flicks, an unlimited all-day pass is also offered at Php 199.00 each.
Catch Sine-Sindak movie offerings in SM Cinema branches and Walter Mart Cinemas nationwide from October 24 to 30, 2018. Book your tickets through the website, www.smcinema.com or download the SM Cinema mobile app.  You may also follow /SMCinema on Facebook and @SM_Cinema on Instagram for updates!

VENOM - Horrific, Weird, Crazy, but whole lots of FUN !

VENOM

Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) is a journalist who, while investigating an evil scientist's lab, gets infected by an alien symbiote. In turn, Eddie gains some super powers while becoming a monster who loves eating humans. I only know Venom from Spiderman 3 as one of Spidey's villains. So I didn't have any expectations when I came to watch his origin movie. And to my surprise, it worked ! I found him funny, witty, and smart !

Tom Hardy's performance as the lead character is far from the usual superhero films. He's not out to be a role-model, but he's weird, crazy, and a loser. He's always sweaty and looked as if he didn't even worked-out to have an athletic body. Technically he's not a superhero, but an anti-hero.

The movie does have problems, as it doesn't have much of a plot. And most of the other characters - the mad scientist, the ex-girlfriend, etc. are forgettable. But Tom Hardy saves the day as he shows his craziness and swagger throughout the film. It was fun seeing him inter-act with the alien that possessed him. He did both the voices of Eddie Brock and Venom. 

The CGI is also great. The symbiote looks like a horrific alien being, and Venom does look like Venom from the comic books. There were also several action pieces which showcases the tremendous powers of the title character.  

I really did enjoy the movie ! And I'm so looking forward to the sequels. I heard Tom Hardy has signed up for a trilogy. Stay for the mid-credit scene and post-credit scenes. Directed by Ruben Fleischer. Rated PG-13.
From Columbia Pictures. Again don't listen to the haters !  

VENOM is now @ SM Cinemas !

PRESS RELEASE
Feel the wrath of Venom at SM Cinema

Prepare your inner self as Eddie Brock and his alter-ego, Venom, the most badass anti-hero is coming in SM Cinema this October.
The film follows the adventures of Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy), a journalist that aims to uncover the secrets of the infamous Life Foundation founder Carlton Drake (Riz Ahmed).

Unfortunately, his obsession on Drake ruined his career and his relationship with his girlfriend, Anne Weying (Michelle Williams). In his darkest moments, Brock discovers one of Drake’s experiments and the alien symbiote, Venom, merges with his body. Witness Eddie Brock and Venom’s quest as they become one and reveal their inner anti-hero.
An action-packed thriller, Venom movie experience becomes even better at IMAX theatres. With the movie shown on IMAX® screens, audiences will be immersed with the expanded 1.9:1 aspect ratio because Venom was digitally re-mastered into the image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience® with proprietary IMAX DMR® (Digital Re-mastering) technology. The crystal-clear images, coupled with IMAX's customized theatre geometry and powerful digital audio, create a unique environment that will make audiences feel as if they are in the movie.
In line with its Reel to Real initiative, SM Cinema also offers exciting surprises and giveaways to moviegoers! Patrons can have a chance to get free Venom comic books when they purchase in advance two (2) IMAX tickets at SM Cinema website and app from September 26 to October 3.  Exclusive Venom IMAX movie posters are also up for grabs with the purchase of Venom movie tickets for October 6’s last screening at select IMAX at SM Cinema branches. Lastly, regular Venom movie posters will also be given to moviegoers when they purchase Venom tickets at select SM Director’s Club Cinema from October 4 to 6. Stay tuned on SM Cinema Facebook and Instagram page for more details!
Catch Columbia Pictures’ Venom in SM Cinema branches nationwide starting October 4, 2018. Book your tickets through the website, www.smcinema.com or download the SM Cinema mobile app.  You may also follow /SMCinema on Facebook and @SM_Cinema on Instagram for updates!