FIREFLY - Watch out for this boy, Euwenn Mikaell, as he charms his way to your hearts !

By Edgar Allan Yu 

If you're looking for a heartwarming and captivating story that will leave you inspired and moved, look no further than "FIREFLY." This charming film revolves around a young boy (Euwenn Mikaell) who makes a promise to his mother (Alessandra De Rossi) leading him on an extraordinary journey that will pull at your heartstrings. 

What sets "FIREFLY" apart is its star-studded cast (Cherry Pie Picache, Miguel Tanfelix, Ysabel Ortega, Epy Quizon, Yayo Aguila, Kokoy De Santos, Max Collins, and Dingdong Dantes) bringing the characters to life with their exceptional performances. Each actor brings depth and emotion to their roles, making the story even more compelling.  

Prepare to be immersed in a world where love, determination, and the power of promises take center stage. "FIREFLY" is not just another movie; it's an experience that will leave a lasting impact on your heart. So grab some popcorn, some tissues, sit back, and allow yourself to be swept away by this remarkable tale. A film by Zig Dulay. Produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs. Definitely one of the best Filipino films I've seen lately. It's perfect for the Holiday season. Don't miss this! An official entry to the MMFF 2023. Opens December 25 in 🇵🇭 cinemas !  

AQUAMAN 2 Works Best When Jason Momoa and Patrick Wilson Are Both Onscreen

By Edgar Allan E. Yu

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom delivers a visually stunning and action-packed experience that is sure to captivate audiences. The film's visuals are nothing short of amazing, with breathtaking underwater scenes that transport viewers into the depths of Atlantis. The action sequences are just as thrilling as in the first installment, keeping viewers engaged  throughout the movie. 

This time Arthur is forced to team up with Orm to fight against a more powerful Black Manta who is out to seek revenge. The film focuses on the bond between the brothers, former enemies, now allies. So there's less of Mera (Amber Heard), but we still get to see her in the first and third act. 

One noticeable change is Jason Momoa's portrayal of the titular character. While still embodying Aquaman's rugged charm, Momoa seems to be sillier and goofier, injecting moments of humor into the film whenever he feels like it. Sometimes it works, but other times, it gets old.  

Patrick Wilson, on the other hand  is excellent. The former King Orm is now just a prisoner in jail. He brings depth and complexity to his character, whether he is interacting with Arthur or fighting with the monsters. Easily the best part of this sequel is when Arthur and Orm are both onscreen. 

 I didn't like the mid-credits scene though 'cause it didn't bring anything substantial. I mean we're getting the last scene of the last DCEU movie with just a joke ? They could have given us something better to remember them by. 

Overall, AQUAMAN 2 still offers an exciting cinematic experience with its stunning visuals, exhilarating action sequences, and undeniable chemistry between Jason Momoa and Patrick Wilson. Director  James Wan continues to deliver on the high expectations set by its predecessor.   

Photo Credit: “Copyright Notice: © 2023 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.”  

COMCO Mundo announces major promotions on its Epic 7th year Camp COMCO’s top graduates appointed to key positions

 

To cap off its “Epic 7 Years” celebration, global award-winning and powerhouse communications group COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises announces major promotions for its various business units. 

As the group of companies continue to grow, COMCO Mundo announced the promotion of Joyce Yu as Account Operations Director and Business Unit Administrator of COMCO Southeast Asia, the New PR and Smart Social agency of the group.  As a seasoned communications expert, Joyce specializes in Public Relations, Advertising, Events and Activation and Branding. Ms. Yu successfully spearheaded COMCO SEA’s PR campaigns and events the European Higher Education Fair 2022 and 2023, Eastern Communications, Philusa Corporation, Remy Martin, World Vision, Alaxan, Lalamove, Teleperformance, Jobstreet, Skechers, LaLiga, and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), among others. 

COMCO Mundo also continues to discover and develop millennial and Gen Z talents through the Camp COMCO Mentorship program, an intensive and comprehensive talent incubation initiative, industry linkage course, and apprenticeship program designed to transform communication, marketing, and multimedia arts students and fresh graduates into revolutionary practitioners of the new disciplines and global practices of New PR and Smart Social. Included in the major promotions this year were the top graduates of the industry-acclaimed Camp COMCO Mentorship Program and Grand Champions of the House Wars pitch competition, the culminating activity and test for Camp COMCO apprentices where they develop strategic communications plans for actual brands and organizations. 

Starting with homegrown talent Queenie Resmundo from Camp COMCO Cycle 2’s House Flying Fox, she is now the Agency’s newest Senior Account Operations Manager and Business Unit Administrator Pro Tempore / Partner for COMCO Southeast Asia. Jam Bufi, a graduate of Camp COMCO Mentorship Program Cycle 5, has been promoted to Associate Integrated Communications Manager and Business Unit Administrator Pro Tempore for TARO AOX Inc., the specialist agency for digital, emerging technologies and integrated communications of COMCO Mundo. 

Paula Sison from Camp COMCO Cycle 19’s House Flying Fox continues to expand her skills and craft in the PR industry as well as demonstrate her leadership potential as she takes on her new role as COMCO Mundo's Senior Executive Initiatives and Communications Officer. Also qualifying for accelerated promotion are fast-rising young PR practitioners Mabel Villanueva from Camp COMCO Cycle 15’s House Bearcat and Gabbie Marcelo from Camp COMCO Cycle 18’s House Whaleshark who are now Brand Communications Officer and Executive Initiatives and Communications Officer, respectively. With her groundbreaking performance from her apprenticeship to her actual career practice in COMCO, Narah Faigal from Camp COMCO Cycle 15’s House Whaleshark also earned an accelerated promotion to Multimedia Arts Officer. 

Demonstrating her exemplary work and leadership potential, Hiacynth Ablanez from Camp COMCO Cycle 17’s House Hawksbill got an early promotion which is ahead of her anniversary. She now holds the position of Senior Digital and Social Associate of TARO AOX Inc. Breakthrough graphics designer Gabby Gonzales from Camp COMCO Cycle 16’s House Bearcat is also promoted to Senior Multimedia Arts Associate. 

In addition, with her expertise and experience in Finance and Accounting Management, Mhyles Mercado was given an accelerated promotion and is now COMCO Mundo’s Corporate Services Supervisor.

“As the years passed by, we have witnessed our talents’ commitment, passion and excellence in our craft. We are incredibly proud of them! We can’t wait to see a brighter future for COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises as we continue to mentor and hone these amazing talents who carry out and showcase our unique brand of meaningful storytelling,” said Mr. Ferdinand L. Bondoy, COMCO Mundo’s Group Chief Executive Director and Lead Strategic Communications Counsel / Partner and Co-Founder.

To know more about COMCO Mundo, visit comcomundo.com. Follow them on social media: facebook.com/comcomundo on Facebook, linkedin.com/company/comcomundo, and @comcomundo on Instagram.

AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM” TO HOLD MIDNIGHT SCREENINGS ON DECEMBER 20

Get ready to dive into the world of Atlantis once again. 

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/h1fiesc6opk?si=gLijcqFPzplIhyrb

Jason Momoa is back on the big screen as the titular superhero in “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” directed by James Wan. As an additional treat for fans, the movie will have midnight screenings on December 20 in IMAX theaters and other cinemas nationwide. For more details, fans can check out the social media pages of their favorite cinemas. 

Says producer Rob Cowan: “This film really is something you need to experience inside a big theater with a huge screen… because there’s just so much to look at.”

“Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” opens only in cinemas December 20. Tickets are now available. Get your tickets at https://www.aquaman2.com.ph/

About “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” 

Having failed to defeat Aquaman the first time, Black Manta, still driven by the need to avenge his father’s death, will stop at nothing to take Aquaman down once and for all. This time Black Manta is more formidable than ever before, wielding the power of the mythic Black Trident, which unleashes an ancient and malevolent force. To defeat him, Aquaman will turn to his imprisoned brother Orm, the former King of Atlantis, to forge an unlikely alliance. Together, they must set aside their differences in order to protect their kingdom and save Aquaman’s family, and the world, from irreversible destruction.

All returning to the roles they originated, Jason Momoa plays Arthur Curry/Aquaman, now balancing his duties as both the King of Atlantis and a new father; Patrick Wilson is Orm, Aquaman’s half-brother and his nemesis, who must now step into a new role as his brother’s reluctant ally; Amber Heard is Mera, Atlantis’ Queen and mother of the heir to the throne; Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is Black Manta, committed more than ever to avenge his father’s death by destroying Aquaman, his family and Atlantis; and Nicole Kidman as Atlanna, a fierce leader and mother with the heart of a warrior. Also reprising their roles are Dolph Lundgren as King Nereus and Randall Park as Dr. Stephen Shin. 

Directed by James Wan, “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” is produced by Peter Safran, Wan and Rob Cowan. The executive producers are Galen Vaisman and Walter Hamada.

The screenplay is by David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick, from a story by James Wan & David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick and Jason Momoa & Thomas Pa’a Sibbett, based on characters from DC, Aquaman created by Paul Norris and Mort Weisinger. 

Warner Bros. Pictures Presents An Atomic Monster / A Peter Safran Production of A James Wan Film, “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” set to open in theaters internationally beginning 20 December 2023; it will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures.

Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #Aquaman

Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”  

CELEBRATE IMAGINARY FRIENDS IN THE TRAILER FOR FANTASY COMEDY “IF,” JOHN KRASINSKI’S DIRECTORIAL FOLLOW-UP STARRING RYAN REYNOLDS

What if everything you believed in as a kid was real? From the imagination of John Krasinski, enter a world you have to believe to see. Written and directed by Krasinski and featuring a star-studded cast that includes Ryan Reynolds, Krasinski, Steve Carell, Matt Damon, Jon Stewart, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Emily Blunt, Maya Rudolph, Sam Rockwell, Christopher Meloni, Richard Jenkins, Awkwafina, Louis Gossett Jr. and Cailey Fleming (The Walking Dead), IF is coming soon in cinemas. Watch the trailer: 

YouTube: https://youtu.be/qVmOP-6rCvo 

Check out the newly released poster:  

About IF

 

From writer and director John Krasinski, IF is about a girl who discovers that she can see everyone’s imaginary friends – and what she does with that superpower – as she embarks on a magical adventure to reconnect forgotten IFs with their kids. IF stars Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Cailey Fleming, Fiona Shaw, and the voices of Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr. and Steve Carell alongside many more as the wonderfully unique characters that reflect the incredible power of a child’s imagination.

Written and directed by John Krasinski, IF is produced by Allyson Seeger, Andrew Form, Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski

Cast includes Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Cailey Fleming, Fiona Shaw, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr., Alan Kim, Liza Colón-Zayas and Steve Carell

CREDITS ARE NOT FINAL AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Coming soon in Philippine cinemas, IF is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Connect with #IFMovie and tag @paramountpicsph

 

Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”

COMCO concludes 2023 with global recognition from MarCom Awards in USA, ICCO Global Awards in UK, and Campaign Asia-Pacific Awards in HK

COMCO Southeast Asia, the New PR and Smart Social agency of global award-winning and powerhouse communications group COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises, and its partner brand Century Tuna, the leading canned tuna product in the Philippines, continue to garner recognition from various international award-giving organizations including MarCom Awards in the USA, International Communications Consultancy Organisation (ICCO) Global Awards in the United Kingdom and Campaign Asia-Pacific Awards in Hong Kong.

 

MarCom Awards 2023

COMCO Southeast Asia together with its brand partner Century Tuna marks another feat as the globally acclaimed MarCom Awards 2023 in the USA confers the Platinum Award for Strategic Communications for the “Saving Our Seas” initiative.

The MarCom Awards underscores excellence in marketing and communication by recognizing the creativity, hard work, and generosity of professionals in the industry. This award-giving body acknowledges companies and agencies that also champion service to the community. Administered by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP), the MarCom Awards receive about 6,500 entries annually. The AMCP is composed of marketing, communication, advertising, public relations, digital, and web professionals worldwide.  

Anchored on the goal to protect the marine biodiversity in the Philippines, Century Tuna launched the “Saving Our Seas” Initiative to address the threat of the growing problem of plastic pollution. The Saving Our Seas initiative also became an avenue to empower Filipinos to join the battle against plastic waste and reinforce the idea of a Plastic Circular Economy. COMCO Southeast Asia is the official PR and Communications partner of Century Tuna, for its "Saving Our Seas" initiative.

ICCO Global Awards 2023

Aside from the Platinum Award recognition by MarCom Awards 2023, the “Saving Our Seas” initiative was a strong contender for Best Purpose Campaign at the ICCO Global Awards 2023 making Century Tuna and COMCO Southeast Asia the lone brand and PR agency from the Philippines to be a finalist in the aforementioned award-giving body.

Based in London, United Kingdom, the International Communications Consultancy Organisation (ICCO) thrives as the voice of public relations consultancies across the globe with an annual awards programme that recognizes the excellence and effectiveness of public relations around the world, the International Communications Consultancy Organisation (ICCO) is an avenue for the best PR consultancies around the world to promote quality, address ethical issues, harmonize professional PR consultancy practice, and share knowledge. 

ICCO represents over 3,000 PR firms from 81 countries in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, the Americas, and Australasia. Its annual ICCO Awards program recognizes excellence and impact in public relations. It continues to become one of the prestigious and highly coveted award-giving bodies in the industry.

Campaign Asia-Pacific Awards 2023

Meanwhile, COMCO Southeast Asia was declared a finalist for PR Agency of the Year in the Philippines in the prestigious and most-coveted Campaign Asia-Pacific Awards 2023, an annual ceremony participated by media, advertising, creative, digital, PR, independent, and specialist agencies from across the Asia Pacific region and the United Kingdom. The Campaign Asia-Pacific Awards' PR Agency of the Year is given to agencies and consultancies that champion and inspire leadership, excellence in management, and outstanding business performance in PR consultancy. 

The voice of the media, marketing, and advertising community, Campaign Asia-Pacific delves into compelling information in the communication market globally. Campaign Asia-Pacific also focuses on the ideas, works, and personalities that shape the communications and events industry.

Celebrating outstanding achievements and milestones, COMCO Southeast Asia championed  meaningful storytelling through igniting brand love, social change, talent growth, and inter-regional collaboration. With its strategy to invest in creating specialist units to create an integrated multi-channel campaign and strengthen its team care program and workplace community culture, COMCO SEA championed strategic integrated communications under the leadership of its Group Chief Executive Director and Lead Strategic Communications Counsel / Partner and Co-Founder Ferdinand L. Bondoy.

COMCO SEA forges towards the fast-changing PR landscape by offering New PR – a strategy-based, content-driven, and channel-agnostic way of doing PR, and Smart Social – a holistic, authentic, and integrated approach in the maximization of digital and social channels.

“We are extremely honored that our works have been noticed by these internationally acclaimed award-giving bodies. We really look up to these organizations and with our works being recognized across the world, we know that together with our brand partners, we are able to reach communities, not only in the Philippines but on a global scale through Meaningful Storytelling,” said COMCO Mundo’s Group Chief Executive Director and Lead Strategic Communications Counsel / Partner and Co-Founder Mr. Ferdinand Bondoy.

To learn more about COMCO Southeast Asia, visit comcosea.com. Follow them on social media: fb.com/comco.southeastasia on Facebook, linkedin.com/company/comcosea, and @comco_sea on both Instagram and Twitter. Stay updated with COMCO Mundo by visiting www.comcomundo.com or following fb.com/comcomundo on Facebook, linkedin.com/company/comcomundo on LinkedIn, and @comcomundo on Instagram.

AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM” IS FUNNIER THAN ITS BOX-OFFICE HIT PREDECESSOR, SAY JASON MOMOA AND DIRECTOR JAMES WAN 

Director James Wan has always planned for the “Aquaman” sequel to have a bit more comedy. 

In an interview with “Empire” magazine, Wan said, “From the start, I pitched that the first film would be a ‘Romancing the Stone’-type thing – an action-adventure romantic comedy,” he said, “while the second would be an outright buddy comedy.” Some inspirations he had were “Tango & Cash,” a 1989 buddy cop comedy starring Sylvester Stallone and Kurt Russell, and 1997’s “Men in Black,” starring Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones. 

In “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” sequel to the box office smash “Aquaman,” DC’s highest worldwide grossing film of all time, Black Manta (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), having failed to defeat Aquaman (Jason Momoa) the first time and still driven by the need to avenge his father’s death, will stop at nothing to take Aquaman down once and for all. This time Black Manta is more formidable than ever before, wielding the power of the mythic Black Trident, which unleashes an ancient and malevolent force. To defeat him, Aquaman will turn to his imprisoned brother Orm (Patrick Wilson), the former King of Atlantis, to forge an unlikely alliance. Together, they must set aside their differences in order to protect their kingdom and save Aquaman’s family, and the world, from irreversible destruction.  

Fortunately for Wan, Jason Momoa, who famously turned Aquaman into one of the coolest superheroes, loved the idea of comedy in the sequel too. In a recent guest appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” Momoa talked about his love for the character of Aquaman, and what makes the sequel different – including a writing credit for the actor. “When I finished the first one, I was really pumped and I came back in and I wrote a treatment and I went in and I pitched it,” an excited Momoa proudly shared. “And I just wanted to think of it, like, the idea, because now he’s a father, he’s married, he’s the king – he was a slacker in the first one – now he’s got all these, and you basically get to go on that journey with him… and it becomes this journey that they[he and his brother Orm] go on and there are differences in how they save the planet. But it’s really fun, like, I love ‘Tango & Cash’ and… it’s just a lot of comedy, which I never get to do, so it was really fun to put that in there.”  

Also starring Amber Heard, Nicole Kidman, Dolph Lundren and Randall Park, “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” opens exclusively in cinemas December 20. Get your tickets now at https://www.aquaman2.com.ph/ 

Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #Aquaman

Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures” 

WONKA - Timothée Chalamet is The Next Big Thing To Watch

By : Edgar Allan E. Yu  

Prepare your taste buds for a delectable cinematic treat this holiday season with the highly anticipated film, "WONKA." Starring the talented Timothée Chalamet in the titular role, this reimagining of the beloved Willy Wonka character, from Roald Dahl's 1964 novel "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" is set to captivate audiences with its fresh and charming take.  

Chalamet brings a youthful energy and ambition to his portrayal of the renowned chocolate maker, infusing the character with an irresistible charm that is sure to leave viewers smitten. But it doesn't stop there – Chalamet's talents extend beyond acting, as he showcases his impressive vocal abilities in this musical extravaganza. Prepare to be enchanted as he sings his way into your heart. 

 

Adding an extra layer of comedic brilliance to the film is none other than Hugh Grant, who takes on the role of Oompa Loompa. Grant's portrayal of this iconic character is nothing short of hilarious, injecting a delightful sense of humor that perfectly complements Chalamet's charismatic performance. Other supporting cast members are strong, but I would rather not mention them here, so as not to spoil the scenes. 

"WONKA" promises to be a delightful cinematic experience for audiences seeking entertainment and joy during the holiday season. Whether you're a fan of the original story or new to Wonka's world, this film is set to bring smiles and laughter to all who embark on this whimsical adventure. 

 

Make sure to add "WONKA" to your must-watch list this holiday season and prepare yourself for an enchanting journey filled with laughter, music, and endless charm.  

Photos courtesy of  "Warner Bros Pictures"  

 SUPER-POWERED KOREAN DRAMA “MOVING”

NOMINATED FOR BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE SERIES

AT 29^TH ANNUAL CRITICS CHOICE AWARDS

 

A prestigious award bestowed annually to honor the finest in cinematic and television achievement,

today’s Critics Choice Awards announcement is the latest in a series of nominations and wins for the hit Korean drama 

 

Philippines. December 06, 2023 – Earlier today, the thrilling Disney+ Korean drama series Moving was nominated for Best Foreign Language Series at the U.S.’s 29^th Annual Critics Choice Awards.

Set to be held on Sunday, January 14, 2024 (Pacific Standard Time), the 29^th Annual Critics Choice Awards is a celebration of the finest cinematic and television achievements, with today’s announcement marking the latest of a series of nominations for Moving in recent months.

Since October this year, Moving has taken home the awards for Best Creative, Best Visual Effects, Best Writer (Kangfull), Best Lead Actor (Ryu Seungryong), Best Newcomer Actor (Lee Jungha) and Best Newcomer Actress (Go Younjung) at Busan International Film Festival’s Asia Content Awards & Global OTT Awards, as well as the Best Series and Best Actress in a Series (Han Hyojoo) awards at the 59^th Daejong International Film Award.

A thrilling story set across 20 breathtaking episodes, Moving tells the story of a group of South Korean special agents 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 to fly, instantly heal, and use their enhanced senses in the field, the agents disappeared without a trace after being tasked with carrying out increasingly dubious missions. But with their children now 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. 

First premiering in August this year, Moving rapidly became the most viewed Korean original series on Disney+*.

Hailed as “a superhero story with an emotional core” by Forbes, “the next breakout hit from Asia” by Variety, and “surprising and powerful” by IGN, Moving stars 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.

Stream all 20 subtitled episodes of Moving today, exclusively on Disney+.

*Based on hours streamed in its first 7 days streaming on Disney+. 

 KOREAN MYSTERY THRILLER “MAESTRA: STRINGS OF TRUTH”

COMING DECEMBER 9 TO DISNEY+

 

A conductor’s past will haunt her future in this upcoming series starring Lee Youngae,

Lee Moosaeng, Kim Youngjae and Hwang Boreumbyeol

 

When a highly accomplished conductor decides to leave her life in New York behind to take up the challenge of reviving a struggling Korean orchestra, her past will threaten to destroy everything she’s worked for in MAESTRA: Strings of Truth, a new Korean mystery thriller coming December 9 to Disney+.

A visionary violin player from a young age, Cha Seeum quickly swapped her bow for a baton, travelling from Seoul to New York City, where she became one of the world’s most accomplished conductors. After a hugely successful career, Seeum returns to her homeland when it becomes clear her past is about to be exposed. Once back in Korea, Seeum will attempt to revive Seoul’s failing Han River Philharmonic Orchestra while also working to uncover the mysterious person who is threatening to expose her secret to the world.

Produced by CJ ENM’s production powerhouse Studio Dragon, the series features Lee Youngae (Dae Jang Geum, Lady Vengeance) as famed conductor Cha Seeum; Lee Moosaeng (The Glory, The World of the Married) as Seeum’s former partner Yoo Jungjae; Kim Youngjae (Reborn Rich, Stranger 2) as Seeum’s husband Kim Phil; and Hwang Boreumbyeol (The Secret Romantic Guesthouse, The World of My 17) as Lee Luna, the young concertmaster of the Han River Philharmonic; MAESTRA: Strings of Truth is written by Hong Junghee (The Taste of Curry, Changall’s Birthday) and is directed by Kim Jeongkwon (Ditto, Lie After Lie).

Stream MAESTRA: Strings of Truth from December 9 on Disney+.

 

MEET MARY AND JOSEPH IN THE CHRISTMAS MUSICAL “JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM,” SHOWING EXCLUSIVELY IN SM CINEMAS DECEMBER 6, IN TIME FOR THE FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

This Christmas season, sing along to the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus with Journey to Bethlehem, a live-action Christmas musical adventure for the entire family that stars Fiona Palomo, Milo Manheim and Antonio Banderas as King Herod. The film, which weaves classic Christmas melodies with humor, faith, and new pop songs in a retelling of the greatest story ever told, will be shown exclusively in SM Cinemas starting December 6, just in time for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. 

The huge responsibility that comes with playing the earthly parents of Jesus is not lost on the actors who play them in the film. “I feel like for Mary it’s probably a much deeper weight,” says Manheim, who plays Joseph, about the character of Mary. “But, you know, Mary is obviously carrying the child of God.” 

“It’s a huge responsibility,” agrees Palomo, who plays the all-important role of Mary. “But we will see through the movie that she couldn’t have done it without Joseph.” 

Watch the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66WKfFju3eE 

Their respective characters aren’t the only things Palomo and Manheim love about the movie. They’re singing praises of the film’s music too! 

“The thing that I love about this so much is that it’s such an ancient story but all the music is so modern,” says Manheim. “It feels like two things that wouldn’t really go together but we’re creating a movie that I absolutely would watch and I know that I would love – and the music is incredible.”   

Adds Palomo, “It’s a beautiful balance between just very grounded real human problems and purposes and barriers and everything, and just performance and theater and color – it’s perfect.”

“Finding the right Mary and Joseph was, of course, key,” says Richard Peluso, head of Affirm Films, a Christian film studio owned by Sony Pictures. “I had already been kind of teed up by Adam [Anders, director] and the producer saying that they really like these two actors, and when I finished watching all the tapes, I came back to them and said, ‘You guys are spot on – It is Fiona, and it is Milo.They are Mary and Joseph.” 

Journey to Bethlehem, also starring Academy Award® nominee Antonio Banderas as King Herod, is showing exclusively in SM cinemas starting December 6. Don’t miss this must-see feel good film this holiday season. 

About Journey to Bethlehem

A young woman carrying an unimaginable responsibility. A young man torn between love and honor. A jealous king who will stop at nothing to keep his crown. This live-action Christmas musical adventure for the entire family weaves classic Christmas melodies with humor, faith, and new pop songs in a retelling of the greatest story ever told – the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus. A unique new entry into the collection of holiday classic movies, this epic Christmas musical is unlike any before it. 

Directed by Adam Anders, with screenplay by Adam Anders & Peter Barsocchini. Produced by Brandt Andersen, Adam Anders, Ryan Busse, Stephen Meinen, Alan Powell, Steve Barnett

Fiona Palomo, who plays Mary, and Milo Manheim, who plays Joseph, are joined by Omid Djalili, Rizwan Manji, Geno Segers, MŌRIAH, Joel Smallbone, Lecrae, Stephanie Gil and Academy Award® Nominee Antonio Banderas. 

Showing exclusively in SM Cinemas starting December 6, Journey to Bethlehem is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #JourneytoBethlehem and tag @columbiapicph

Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”