“STAR WARS: AHSOKA”

DRAWS 14 MILLION VIEWS GLOBALLY FOR FIRST EPISODE

 

Star Wars fans all over the world have long-awaited the return of a beloved character in Ahsoka Tano, making this successful debut more special.

 

Philippines. August 31, 2023 – Lucasfilm and The Walt Disney Company are thrilled and humbled to announce that Part One of “Ahsoka,” "Master and Apprentice," was the most-watched title on Disney+ last week. The debut episode garnered 14 million views*, making the series number one globally on the streaming platform. 

“Ahsoka has become a fan favorite with people of all ages and it’s wonderful to see her continue to resonate with viewers in her very own headlining series,” says Kathleen Kennedy, Lucasfilm president. “I want to recognize the fantastic work done by our creative team, led by Dave Filoni and Jon Favreau, the incredible cast led by Rosario Dawson, and our talented crew — and on behalf of the team and all of Lucasfilm, we give our thanks to all the fans who have been with Ahsoka on every step of her journey and to all those who are just learning about her now in Ahsoka on Disney+.” 

New episodes of Ahsoka arrive every Wednesday at 9AM, only on Disney+. 

Click, click: Capture your kind of aesthetic with the Samsung Galaxy A24 LTE

 

Ordinary encounters can easily become your favorite scenes in a snap when you have a phone that captures the main character that you are! Whether you're into that selfie aesthetic, night glam, or outdoor feels, Samsung hits that vibe with the trendy Galaxy A24 LTE - a pocket-friendly phone that helps you capture and display awesomeness. Find out how you can create and share your unique aesthetic with the  Galaxy A24 LTE!

The always-on-cam star

Do you fancy the bokeh effect on your selfies? Then, it’s an excellent time to upgrade to the Galaxy A24 LTE as the portrait feature is also available on the front camera. Thanks to the enhanced 13-megapixel front camera, every snap gives plenty of resolved details on blurring backgrounds and a balanced overall rendition. 

In addition, the Galaxy A24 LTE has a crystal clear 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display and full HD 1080 resolution with 30fps refresh rate so you can see video logs in great detail as you capture videos and take photo shoots without the need for extra hands.

The Galaxy A24 LTE also goes perfectly with your vibe! Whether you are into the monochromatic classic core, or always love a glint of green accents and whimsical high shine, you can always enjoy taking mirror shots to document your daily fit checks with the captivating design of the Galaxy A24 LTE available in Awesome Lime and Awesome Graphite. 

 

The nature shutterbug 

If you’re into capturing landscapes, using the Galaxy A24 LTE to remember the highlights of your day and night journey is super easy with its 50MP OIS main Camera (wide), 2-MP f/2.4  Macro, and the new 2-MP depth that also supports Night and Pro modes! 

The Galaxy A24 LTE also boasts a dynamic range as the sensor is coupled with a stabilized (OIS) 27mm f/1.8 lens and supports phase detection with autofocus available for the primary and ultrawide cameras.  With these features, shooting videos of panoramic landscapes and cityscapes on a night out will definitely be extra stunning in every shot, at any angle.

The cinematic soul

If you enjoy taking panoramic shots of gorgeous natural vistas and breathtaking cityscapes for your travel album, the Galaxy A24 LTE's Ultrawide camera is your best friend. Its 5-megapixel  f/2.2  and its ability to zoom in up to 10 times for the real cinematic feel.

Compromising your picturesque lifestyle and social entertainment activities is never an option with the Galaxy A24 LTE. Thanks to the powerful octa-core and the MT6789 processor that supports higher memory bandwidth, you can also watch non-stop videos as you shoot and take all the snaps from different angles. Along with this awesome tool is the upgrade to 8GB memory, storage of 128GB, and an additional Micro SD card room so you can power share all your awesome updates with the fam anywhere you go!

Get on fleek with your aesthetic lifestyle and get this awesome smartphone destined to help you channel your aesthetic era for a budget-friendly price of only PHP 14,990! Available in 0% installment via credit card and affordable installment plans via Home Credit. You can get a free 25W travel adapter and 128GB SD card worth P1,749 with every purchase of the Galaxy A24 LTE from authorized Samsung Stores until September 30. 

Grab these awesome deals and let your main character era begin! 

For more information, check out: https://www.samsung.com/ph/ 

 SUPER-POWERED DRAMA “MOVING”

BREAKS RECORDS TO BECOME THE MOST VIEWED KOREAN ORIGINAL SERIES

ACROSS DISNEY+ AND HULU

 

Available on Disney+ internationally and Hulu in the U.S., “Moving” has captured audiences with its all-star cast, riveting writing and unmissable action sequences 

Philippines. August 25, 2023 – Featuring international espionage, super-powered spies and deadly assassins, Korean drama and tentpole series Moving has quickly captured the world’s attention, becoming the most-watched Korean original on Disney+ globally and Hulu in the U.S. based on hours streamed after 7 days.

In its first week since launch on August 9, the hit new series also became the most watched series on Disney+ across APAC, including Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia (such as the Philippines), Hong Kong and Taiwan (based on hours watched), and the biggest premiere on Disney+ in Korea to date, based on hours streamed in the first week since launch. Moving launched globally on Disney+ in 65 markets and countries and Hulu in the U.S.

“The global consumer response towards the first 11 episodes of Moving has exceeded our expectations,” said Carol Choi, Executive Vice President of Original Content Strategy, The Walt Disney Company APAC. “From the U.S. to all across APAC, it is fast becoming a breakout hit with its captivating storyline, world-class cast and incredible post-production effects -- all coming together to deliver exceptional storytelling.” 

Starring some of the biggest names in the Korean entertainment industry, including Ryu Seungryong, Han Hyojoo and Zo Insung in his long-awaited return to a drama series, Moving tells the story of a group of South Korean spies working to protect their super-powered children from harm and exploitation at the hands of malicious government agencies. Initially recruited because of their extraordinary abilities including flight, instant healing and enhanced senses, the spies disappeared without a trace after being tasked with carrying out increasingly dubious missions. Now with their children exhibiting similar abilities and a dangerous assassin rapidly picking off super-powered individuals, the parents must leave their peaceful lives behind to become the “monsters” they once were.  

Hailed as “proving the power of quality K-content” by KBS Media, dubbed “a gripping new K-drama action series” by Newsweek, “a superhero story with an emotional core” by Forbes, and a “completely different and new hero story” by Max Movie, the first 11 episodes of Moving are available for audiences to enjoy today. Two new episodes are set to release every Wednesday, with a three-part series finale slated for September 20. 

Moving joins a rapidly expanding library of Korean content now available on Disney+, including the Blue Dragon Series Award-winning Big Bet, starring legendary actor Choi Minsik as a serial entrepreneur who repeatedly breaks the law to help bolster his burgeoning casino business; The Zone: Survival Mission; Soundtrack #1 and much more.

Stream the first 11 episodes of Moving today, exclusively on Disney+

 

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES : MUTANT MAYHEM - Is It The Best One Yet ?

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have returned in an updated version of their origin story, catering to a new generation of fans. A standout feature of this animated movie is that actual teenagers voiced the turtles, adding authenticity and relatability to their characters. This casting choice allows for a more genuine portrayal of teenage experiences, thus making the turtles think and sound like real teenagers.  

A particularly exciting addition to the cast is Jackie Chan, who lends his voice talent to Splinter, the wise and skilled mentor of the turtles. This time though, he is more like a dad to the turtles, rather than their Master Sensei.   

  

The Mutant Mayhem storyline promises action-packed adventures that will keep viewers engaged throughout the film. With thrilling fight sequences and intense battles against several mutants, this new iteration delivers on its promise of excitement and entertainment. Add to that, it also embraces humor as a core element. The witty banter between the turtles adds levity and charm to the overall narrative, making it enjoyable for both younger audiences and nostalgic adults alike.    

 

In terms of visuals,  this one introduces a new animation style that adds a fresh aesthetic appeal to the franchise. The vibrant colors, fluid movements, and attention to detail create visually stunning scenes that enhance the overall viewing experience.

In conclusion, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem offers an updated take on these beloved heroes in a way that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. This latest iteration promises an exciting adventure for all ages.   

 

Photos courtesy of @paramountpicsph

#TMNTMovie 

#MutantMayhem 

DENZEL WASHINGTON’S ROBERT MCCALL IS A MAN ON THE VERGE IN “THE EQUALIZER 3,” SAYS DIRECTOR ANTOINE FUQUA

 

Denzel Washington is back as Robert McCall, and in The Equalizer 3 McCall’s story reaches a conclusion. 

In the third and final film of the trilogy, it becomes clear that while working on behalf of the people who need him has provided Robert McCall with some solace, it still means that he is a man whose life is defined by violence – and that cannot last. “He’s dealing with his demons,” says Washington, who reprises one of his signature roles. “It’s very different than the first two films; I think it’s much more personal. This movie is about his salvation and letting go of his past.” 

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/inN061MtPOg 

“He's going through an internal battle,” says Antoine Fuqua, who returns to direct the third film in the trilogy and fifth overall with Washington. “He’s helping those who can't help themselves, handing out justice his way to evil people. But he’s questioning himself. Has he gone too far? Is he enjoying it too much? Is he still doing it for the right reasons?”

Producers Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal say that the reason that The Equalizer franchise has resonated so strongly with audiences is that it echoes with who Washington is in real life – minus the violence. “Robert McCall is able to take care of good people who can’t take care of themselves,” they say. “Denzel, as a human being, really believes in mission-oriented goals... I think it’s the same thing here with Robert McCall – he uses his powers to serve good. He, as both Denzel and as Robert McCall, are going to make sure that the good people are protected. The fun of it is tracking them down – he gives them all an opportunity to stop what they’re doing, and they don’t, and so he has to become the Equalizer.”  

The trouble for McCall, says Washington, is that he’s become a little too enamored by that idea – to his peril. “He has gotten addicted to this so-called ‘justice’ and crossed the line into unnecessary violence,” adds Washington. “He pays a price. And he has to deal with himself, and rely on others, and break out of his patterns, or he will die. Through that, hopefully, he finds peace.”

“What I wanted to explore was a man on the verge,” Fuqua continues. “McCall is on the verge of a question – what else does he have to live for? His wife is gone; Susan Plummer (Melissa Leo) is gone. It seems like he does the right thing, but he's constantly punished. And so I think he's on the verge, and he has to think about what he's going to do with his life.”

The Equalizer 3 brings Robert McCall abroad for the first time. “The plan was always that the third film would go overseas,” says screenwriter Richard Wenk. “I had never been to Italy, but I knew that Denzel spends a lot of time there. So, during the pandemic, I did a lot of research. I thought that Italy would be the place that McCall might end up finding a place for himself.”

The Equalizer 3, also starring Dakota Fanning, opens in Philippine cinemas September 13. 

**The interviews for this article were done before the writers and actors strikes.** 

About The Equalizer 3

Since giving up his life as a government assassin, Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) has struggled to reconcile the horrific things he’s done in the past and finds a strange solace in serving justice on behalf of the oppressed. Finding himself surprisingly at home in Southern Italy, he discovers his new friends are under the control of local crime bosses. As events turn deadly, McCall knows what he has to do: become his friends’ protector by taking on the mafia.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, and written by Richard Wenk, based on the television series created by Michael Sloan and Richard Lindheim. 

The film’s cast is led by Denzel Washington, Dakota Fanning, David Denman and Gaia Scodellaro.

In cinemas September 13, The Equalizer 3 is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #TheEqualizer3

Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures” 

GRAN TURISMO: BASED ON A TRUE STORY - Intense, Heartwarming, Inspirational

By : Edgar Allan E. Yu 

When it comes to racing films, expectations are often high. But GRAN TURISMO exceeded all expectations, delivering an experience that left me in awe. In fact, I can confidently say that this is the best racing film I've ever seen. I didn't expect it to be this good. I was captivated by the intense action and thrilling race sequences.  

The action in GRAN TURISMO is top-notch. The adrenaline-pumping races had my heart racing alongside the characters on screen. The filmmakers have truly captured the essence of high-speed competition, immersing viewers in a thrilling world of fast cars and intense rivalries. 

 

Cinematography and sound design are also truly remarkable. Every shot is meticulously crafted, showcasing the beauty and power of these incredible machines. The race sequences are visually stunning, with dynamic camera angles that put you right in the driver's seat. Combined with a powerful sound design that captures every engine roar and screeching tire, it creates an immersive experience like no other.  

 

David Harbour as the mentor, Archie Madekwe as the gamer turned pro racecar driver, and Djimon Hounsou as the father are all excellent. It's also nice to see Orlando Bloom and Geri Halliwell  (of Spice Girls) after all these years. What a great cast of actors indeed.  And by the way, the real Jann Mardenborough served as stunt double for the intense racing scenes.    

In conclusion, GRAN TURISMO is a must-watch for any fan of racing films or anyone looking for an exciting cinematic experience. Its combination of heart-pounding action, stunning cinematography, and captivating storytelling make it stand out as one of the best in its genre. Prepare to be amazed as you buckle up for this unforgettable ride on the silver screen. Directed by Neill Blomkamp.    

Photos courtesy of Columbia Pictures 

GRAN TURISMO: BASED ON A TRUE STORY” TO HOLD SNEAK PREVIEWS AUGUST 21 & 22

 

An underdog sports story based on the life of a real gamer-turned-racecar driver, Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story will have sneak preview screenings at regular run admission prices in cinemas nationwide on Monday August 21, and Tuesday August 22. Be among the first to catch the film – watch it a week before it begins its regular run on August 30. 

The film, which tells the story of Jann Mardenborough, a Gran Turismo player whose gaming skills won a series of Nissan competitions to become an actual professional racecar driver, stars David Harbour, Orlando Bloom and Archie Madekwe as Mardenborough. 

Orlando Bloom and David Harbour in Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story

Early fan screenings in the U.S. have led to tremendously positive responses from moviegoers, with many saying how surprised they were to love the film so much (even those who are not into the games or racing), and with many applauding the high-octane theatrical experience, imploring friends to see the movie on the big screen in a packed theater. 

“#GranTurismoMovie was absolutely fantastic! The whole theater screamed and cheered the whole film,” raved fan Darrell Fair on Twitter/X. 

Posted Cristy Velasquez, “#GranTurismoMovie just finished watching gran turismo and OMG it was AMAZING!! I was at the edge of my seat. I will definitely be watching this again.” 

Archie Madekwe (in car) and the real Jann Mardenborough in Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story

Grant Skoog lauded almost every aspect of the film in his post: “Blomkamp’s #GranTurismo is inspirational, emotional, thrilling, & riveting. Incredible Action! Phenomenal Acting, The moving Score, fast paced Editing, & gorgeous Cinematography, made this one of the best theater experiences. I was on the edge of my seat. 9/10 #GranTurismoMovie”

 

Director Neill Blomkamp (center) directing the racers, including the real Jann Mardenborough (foreground, right), in Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story

Some critics were also impressed with the film. Said Variety, “‘Gran Turismo,’ Blomkamp’s first major feature in eight years, is easily his best. It’s made with a spontaneous humanistic grace, and the racing sequences, which dominate the movie because they’re truly the story it’s telling, are dazzlingly directed and edited.”

Indiewire raves that Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story “is a thrilling retelling of one of the craziest stories in recent sports history, shot with the level of skillful spectacle that the source material demands. Blomkamp might have directed the best 90-minute sports movie of the decade.” 

ComingSoon.net is all praises as well, describing the film as “the heart-pounding crowd-pleaser of the year with [a] classic underdog story that knocks it out of the park.”

If you love a good underdog story, go see Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story, opening in Philippine cinemas August 30, with sneak preview screenings at regular run admission prices in cinemas nationwide on Monday August 21, and Tuesday August 22. 

About Gran Turismo

Based on the true story of Jann Mardenborough, the film is the ultimate wish fulfillment tale of a teenage Gran Turismo player whose gaming skills won a series of Nissan competitions to become an actual professional racecar driver.

 

Directed by Neill Blomkamp, screenplay by Jason Hall and Zach Baylin, based on the PLAYSTATION STUDIOS video game.

 

Produced by Doug Belgrad, Asad Qizilbash, Carter Swan, Dana Brunetti. The executive producers are Kazunori Yamauchi, Herman Hulst, Jason Hall, Matthew Hirsch.

 

The cast is led by David Harbour, Orlando Bloom, Archie Madekwe, Darren Barnet, Geri Halliwell Horner and Djimon Hounsou.

 

In Philippine cinemas August 30, Gran Turismo is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.  Connect with the hashtag #GranTurismoMovie

Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”  

Unfold a New World and Join the Flip Side: Samsung debuts latest Galaxy devices at Launch Event

 

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, 16 August 2023 – Samsung’s Join the Flip Side event dazzled attendees at Conrad Manila as it unveiled the latest Galaxy devices with a spectacular launch party, bringing to life the brand’s promise of self-expression, creativity and productivity, and overall wellness.

In a program hosted by Erika Kristensen, Samsung shared a rundown of the newest Galaxy  groundbreaking innovations — the Galaxy Z Flip5, Z Fold5, Watch6, and Tab S9—marking a new era of unparalleled premium experiences.

Samsung invites consumers on a journey to discover an all-new Galaxy as Samsung showcases its latest innovations designed to open possibilities and transform lives. At the launch, the newest #TeamGalaxy members Catriona Gray and AC Bonifacio were introduced and also shared what one could expect over on the flip side. AC Bonifacio also kept the crowd hyped up throughout the night with an energetic performance.

Singer-songwriter Leila Alcasid, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee, entrepreneur Nico Bolzico, and travel and lifestyle content creator Camille Co then took guests on a tour of different Galaxy zones, which are experiential installations that brought to life exactly how the new Galaxy devices complement modern lifestyles. 

Express yourself with the Galaxy Z Flip5

As part of the evening’s interactive experiences, guests were able to discover their best side at the Self Expression Studio where they took photos at the Mirror Selfie Station and the Flex Every Angle Photo Booth where they got to experience the versatility of the Flex Cam. Guests also took fun group selfies at the Groufie Station with the various hands-free selfie options 

The Flex Showcase meanwhile highlighted the Galaxy Z Flip5’s Flex Window widgets, which allows you to get productive on the go with just a few clicks and swipes. As the ultimate pocketable self-expression tool, you can let your individuality shine with the biggest cover screen yet, at 3.4 inches. 

Work and play with the Galaxy Z Fold5

At the Productivity Cafe, guests enjoyed curated drinks at the Coffee Station while checking out the features and functions of the new Galaxy Z Fold5. At the Gaming Lounge, guests tried out their favorite games with the Galaxy Z Fold5’s immersive 7.6” main display while at the Multi-Tasking Station, the Galaxy Fold5 was showcased as a powerful productivity tool through its sleeker S Pen, advanced Taskbar, and Split Screen features. 

The Entertainment Pod displayed a diorama of cinema with the Galaxy Fold5 as its movie screen. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, users can watch videos on one screen and type texts and comments using flex mode in the other half.  No need to worry about bulkiness as the Galaxy Fold5 is the thinnest Fold yet thanks to the Zero Gap Hinge.

Sleep better and live healthier with the Galaxy Watch6 series

At the Wellness Den, the new features of the Galaxy Watch6 series were on full display. The Sleep Up station highlighted the innovative capabilities of the Galaxy Watch6’s Sleep Monitoring functions such as the Sleep Scores, Sleep Stages analyses, and intuitive information with Sleep Coaching.  

Guests also got active with stationary bikes while wearing the Watch6 to experience its various functions. With the innovative 3-in-1 BioActive Sensor,  users can enjoy an  efficient way to monitor  exercise efforts and check on their health as the Galaxy Watch6 series monitors both blood pressure and electrocardiographic (ECG). 

The wide selection of versatile watch faces as well as new one-click band options were highlighted as well at the Straps Station. These devices pack holistic health offerings and powerful performance in a refined and sleek design - 30% slimmer bezel, a 20% larger and more vibrant display, and more interactive user interface. 

To further champion overall wellness, Samsung Philippines has partnered with Emma The Sleep Company, an award-winning German brand that advocates for better sleep experiences; and the 24/7  health consultation app KonsultaMD to enable better health and everyday wellness through technology. There will also be exclusive promotions and discounts for Samsung Members, Emma Sleep customers, and Watch6 Customers. Meanwhile, Samsung and KonsultaMD will be hosting health talks, wellness activities, as well as offer promotions and discounts to Samsung Members, KonsultaMD subscribers, and Watch6 Customers. Activities will be announced throughout the rest of the year. 

Get creative and productive with the Galaxy Tab S9 series

At the Creative Playground, guests explored the new features of the new Galaxy Tab S9 series with a live digital mural showcasing how the Galaxy Tab S9 series is a great device for creativity. There was also a  Doodle Corner where guests got to try out the PENUP App and S Pen Handwriting features of the tablets.  The Galaxy Tab S9’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X display also had its own corner full of different backgrounds showing how it can adapt to different lighting situations to ensure an epic viewing experience.

The DeX Mode corner showcased the Galaxy Tab S9’s versatility – where the tablets can be used like a laptop with a keyboard and mouse, and how users can experience the multi-window functionality and ecosystem connectivity with other Galaxy devices at the Ecosystem Integration corner. The experience was taken up a notch by submerging the devices in an aquarium at the Underwater Writing corner, showing how the IP68 rating of both the Galaxy Tab S9 series and the S Pen allows you to work or play anywhere.

To order the latest Samsung Galaxy devices and avail exciting offers, you may visit:  

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-flip5/buy/

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold5/buy/ 

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 series https://www.samsung.com/ph/tablets/galaxy-tab-s9/buy/ 

Samsung Galaxy Watch6 series https://www.samsung.com/ph/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch6-40mm-gold-bluetooth-sm-r930nzeaasa/buy/

 

Members of #TeamGalaxy invites everyone to join the flip side at the launch party. L-R: Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation (SEPCO) Mobile Experience Business Director Daniel Choi, #TeamGalaxy Nico Bolzico, #TeamGalaxy Michelle Dee, #TeamGalaxy Catriona Gray, SEPCO President Min Su Chu, #TeamGalaxy AC Bonifacio, #TeamGalaxy Camille Co, #TeamGalaxy Leila Alcasid, and SEPCO Head of Mobile Experience Blue Avelino.

Dancer AC Bonifacio shared that becoming a #TeamGalaxy member was a dream come true at Samsung's Join the Flip Side launch party 

 

The queen herself, Catriona Gray, has joined the Flip Side. She loves the Galaxy Z Fold5 for its multitasking capabilities.

 

Guests were able to discover their best side at the Self-Expression Studio, where they learned about the versatility of the Flex Cam in taking great selfies.

 

At the Productivity Cafe, guests discovered how the Galaxy Z Fold 5’s massive 7.6” display provides immersive entertainment and gaming, while enhancing  productivity while on the go.

At the Wellness Den, guests learned all about the Galaxy Watch6’s variety of sleep coaching tools and how it can monitor their BP and ECG for better heart health.

 

At the Creative Playground, guests enjoyed seeing a live digital mural and trying out the PENUP App and S Pen handwriting features of the Galaxy Tab S9 - it can even write while submerged underwater with its IP68 rating.

Xolo Maridueña Shines As The Latin Superhero Blue Beetle

 

By : Edgar Allan E. Yu 

Blue Beetle is an absolute blast from start to finish. The movie is filled with humor, action, heart, and emotional moments that keep the audience entertained throughout. The charismatic and talented Xolo Maridueña (from Cobra Kai) perfectly embodies the role of Jaime Reyes and Blue Beetle. He has the look and likeability of a cinematic leading man. With his charming presence and compelling performance, he effortlessly captivates viewers and leaves them wanting more. Blue Beetle effectively blends humor with visually stunning action sequences that will keep you delighted.    

Blue Beetle benefits greatly from an exceptional supporting cast. From the female love interest Bruna Marquezine, the villain Susan Sarandon, and the whole Reyes family, the talented ensemble brings depth and life to the movie, effectively complementing the lead. Also Khaji-Da is voiced by Filipino voice talent Inka Magnaye in the Philippine release of Blue Beetle.   

 

One of the standout aspects of Blue Beetle is its portrayal of Latino family dynamics. The movie excels at highlighting the importance of family and the impact it has on their lives. The family elements within the film add a layer of relatability and heartwarming moments. Blue Beetle's exploration of family dynamics adds depth and emotional resonance to the overall story. 

 

In conclusion, Blue Beetle is a superhero movie that hits all the right notes. With its fun and enjoyable moments, emotional depth, incredible action scenes, fantastic supporting cast, and heartwarming family dynamics, this film offers a complete and captivating cinematic experience. Xolo Maridueña's charming performance as the leading man and superhero Blue Beetle makes him an instant favorite. Don't miss out on this exciting and heartfelt movie !   

Photos courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures

FOR FANS BY FANS: LIFELONG “TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES” FANS SETH ROGEN AND DIRECTOR JEFF ROWE TALK ABOUT THEIR VISION FOR “MUTANT MAYHEM” 

 

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles made a big impression on Seth Rogen at a very early age. “The animated series came out in 1987, when I was five. The first movie came out in 1990, when I was eight,” he says. “It was perfectly geared toward someone my age and I loved it. They were funny. They were referential. I started taking karate probably because of the Turtles. I was just kind of obsessed.”

Watch the final trailer: https://youtu.be/qqc4jJr28w8 

So when Brian Robbins, President and CEO of Paramount and Nickelodeon, called Rogen to ask him if he’d like to discuss making a new Turtles movie, Rogen already knew exactly what he wanted to do. 

“It’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” Rogen says. “Of all those words, the teenage part was the most under-explored, and the most interesting to me.” And that is how Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem began. Rogen saw in it a Turtles movie made with a genuine teen spirit – breaking all the rules, ripping up the playbook and doing everything on its own terms. 

Watch the featurette “Putting the Teens in TMNT” here: https://youtu.be/BNg8CpX0Y4c 

To help shape a Turtles movie with the wit and verve they wanted, Rogen, his producing partner Evan Goldberg, and Mutant Mayhem producer James Weaver  needed a director who could tell a story full of heart and humor, but who was also not afraid to break the rules. They were pointed in the direction – by Phil Lord and Chris Miller no less – of one man: Jeff Rowe, co-writer and co-director of The Mitchells Vs. The Machines.

Rowe admits that he didn’t need all that much in the way of persuading. As a professed lifelong Turtles fan, when he heard there was a search on for a director for a new version of them, his head started spinning. “I thought, ‘That sounds like a dream project. I would kill to do that,’” Rowe says. 

Rowe and his producers all agreed on the direction for the story, which would consider the siblings teenagers first, turtles second. But then Rowe wanted to push the concept even further. What if the movie about teenagers looked like it was made by teenagers? “When he first pitched it,” laughs Goldberg, “we said, ‘Maybe… I don’t know, man. It sounds a little crazy.’”

It probably was a little crazy, at least at first. Rowe’s idea was that he wanted to make a movie that looked not slick and polished – like most CG movies – but as messy, fun and unpredictable as the story’s heroes. “We just wanted it to look like teenage drawings,” says Rowe. “You know, the kind of drawings you did when you were in high school that have weird shapes and bad perspective but are lovingly rendered in places. And were always sincere.” 

 

As the Turtles co-creator and a man who has seen them transform so many times over the years, Kevin Eastman couldn’t be more happy with what everyone has achieved with Mutant Mayhem. “It’s big and loud and proud,” he says. “These guys nailed it.”

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem opens in Philippine cinemas August 23. Cowabunga! 

**The interviews with Rogen and Rowe were done before the writers’ and actors’ strikes.**  

About Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem

 

In Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, after years of being sheltered from the human world, the Turtle brothers set out to win the hearts of New Yorkers and be accepted as normal teenagers through heroic acts. Their new friend April O’Neil helps them take on a mysterious crime syndicate, but they soon get in over their heads when an army of mutants is unleashed upon them.

 

In Philippine cinemas starting August 23, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Connect with #MutantMayhem #TMNTMovie and tag paramountpicsph

 

Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”