Monday, September 30, 2024

WELCOME TO THE NORTH POLE. WATCH DWAYNE JOHNSON AND CHRIS EVANS TRY TO SAVE CHRISTMAS IN THE ACTION-COMEDY “RED ONE,” IN CINEMAS NOVEMBER 6

 

#RedOneMovie only in cinemas November 6


The mission to save Christmas is on. Watch the new trailer for “Red One” now, and see it only in cinemas November 6.


YouTube: https://youtu.be/3Ji7vN5aUvs 


Starring Dwayne Johnson, “Red One” is a must-see action-comedy event that delivers a fresh twist on Christmas for the holiday season. Directed by Jake Kasdan, who has previously teamed with Johnson on the blockbuster “Jumanji” movies, this multigenerational global spectacle features such megawatt stars as Chris Evans teaming up in a high stakes adventure packed with adrenaline and attitude.


Official synopsis: 


After Santa Claus – Code Name: RED ONE – is kidnapped, the North Pole’s Head of Security (Dwayne Johnson) must team up with the world’s most infamous bounty hunter (Chris Evans) in a globe-trotting, action-packed mission to save Christmas.

 

About “Red One”


Jake Kasdan directs from a screenplay by Chris Morgan (the “Fast & Furious” franchise), story by Hiram Garcia (the “Jumanji” and “Fast & Furious” franchises). The film is produced by Garcia, Johnson, Dany Garcia, Morgan, Kasdan and Melvin Mar. The executive producers are Barry Waldman and Ainsley Davies.


The film also stars Lucy Liu (the “Charlie’s Angels” franchise), Kiernan Shipka (“Twisters”), Bonnie Hunt (“Cheaper By the Dozen”), Kristofer Hivju (“Game of Thrones”), Nick Kroll (“Big Mouth”), Wesley Kimmel (“The Mandalorian”), and Oscar winner J.K. Simmons (“Whiplash”).


In cinemas November 6, “Red One” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.


Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #RedOneMovie


Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

Saturday, September 28, 2024

DON’T AVERT YOUR EYES. WATCH THE NEW TRAILER FOR “GLADIATOR II,” STARRING PAUL MESCAL, PEDRO PASCAL, DENZEL WASHINGTON AND MORE, IN CINEMAS SOON

 


The arena is calling. Gladiator II, sequel to the Academy Award-winning (including for Best Picture) Gladiator, is coming to cinemas soon. Directed by Ridley Scott, Gladiator II stars Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Lior Raz, Derek Jacobi, with Connie Nielsen and Denzel Washington. Watch the new trailer and check out the new poster: 


YouTube: https://youtu.be/c0kJwlah7A8

 

#GladiatorII

Photo credit: Paramount Pictures


Official Synopsis: 


From legendary director Ridley Scott, Gladiator II continues the epic saga of power, intrigue, and vengeance set in Ancient Rome. Years after witnessing the death of the revered hero Maximus at the hands of his uncle, Lucius (Paul Mescal) is forced to enter the Colosseum after his home is conquered by the tyrannical Emperors who now lead Rome with an iron fist. With rage in his heart and the future of the Empire at stake, Lucius must look to his past to find strength and honor to return the glory of Rome to its people.


About Gladiator II:


Directed by Ridley Scott, with screenplay by David Scarpa, based on characters by David Franzoni 


Produced by Douglas Wick, Ridley Scott, Lucy Fisher, Michael Pruss, David Franzoni


Starring Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Lior Raz, Derek Jacobi, with Connie Nielsen and Denzel Washington


In cinemas soon, Gladiator II is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Connect with the hashtag #GladiatorII and tag @paramountpicsph


Photo & Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures”


Friday, September 27, 2024

VENOM THE LAST DANCE is Weird and Wild, But The Last Act is a Wonder


By: Edgar Allan E. Yu


VENOM: THE LAST DANCE is a cinematic experience that can only be described as weird, wild, and totally wacko! Embracing the chaotic essence of its titular character, this film dives headfirst into a storyline that may seem like a jumbled mess at times. We follow Eddie Brock and his unpredictable symbiotic counterpart, Venom, as they find themselves in a frantic chase against both the police and Knull's minions known as the xenophages.



Despite its narrative disarray, fans of VENOM will find solace in the action-packed third act. Here, symbiote battles take center stage, delivering the kind of explosive sequences that make your heart race. If you’ve ever cheered for Venom’s antics before, this climactic showdown will not disappoint.



Moreover, what sets VENOM: THE LAST DANCE apart is its clever infusion of humor throughout the chaos. The witty banter between Eddie and Venom adds an entertaining layer to their tumultuous relationship—making you laugh even when everything around them seems to be spiraling out of control. So if you're ready for an exhilarating ride filled with outrageous moments and plenty of laughs, then dive into VENOM: THE LAST DANCE; it’s a wild trip worth taking! According to Tom Hardy, this is his last outing as Venom. But is it really ? What will the god of symbiotes do without Venom ? When will Venom finally meet Spider-Man ? I guess we'll just have to wait and see.  


Photo credits: Columbia Pictures 

Thursday, September 26, 2024

LUPITA NYONG’O, PEDRO PASCAL, KIT CONNOR, MARK HAMILL, AND MORE LEND THEIR VOICES TO THE ANIMATED ADVENTURE FILM, “THE WILD ROBOT”

 


To bring the beloved characters of the animated adaptation of the #1 New York Times bestselling novel, The Wild Robot, to life, DreamWorks Animation brought in equally esteemed actors to lend their voices to the film. Meet the star-studded cast of The Wild Robot and see how they got in touch with their wild side.


Watch the final trailer here: https://youtu.be/vzo0mqQ6GWc


Academy Award winner Lupita Nyong’o plays the state-of-the-art robot Rozzum 7134, or “Roz,” for short. Roz gets stranded on an uninhabited island, and struggles to navigate the environment without human guidance. She encounters a goose egg along her way, and she finds new purpose as a provider to the vulnerable gosling that hatches. 


In playing Roz, Nyong’o felt like it was a new and major milestone in her career, and it left her feeling inspired.. “There was a level of collaboration that left me feeling inspired every time I left the recording booth,” Nyong’o says. “Chris Sanders and Jeff Hermann are so collaborative. Chris is the kind of director who doesn’t let his ego get in the way. Whenever I got into the booth and had questions or was debating him on something, he was ready for that. The whole team behind this project was so adaptable and collaborative. It felt like we were all getting our hands in the dough, and we were going to bake this cake together. Every time I left the booth, I felt empowered, highly valued and definitely inspired by the work that we’d done.”


Brightbill is the name given to the goose that’s found and raised by Roz, and he’s resilient despite his struggles with identity. Kit Connor voices the earnest goose, and director Chris Sanders felt that Connor brought depth and complexity to the character. “During our first recording session, I was amazed by Kit’s ability to infuse genuine emotion into Brightbill’s voice,” Sanders says. “He brought the character to life in a remarkably authentic way, really making Brightbill come alive on screen. Kit’s performance gave our animators a rich foundation to explore the nuances of Brightbill’s relationship with Roz far beyond our initial expectations.”



An unexpected companion along Roz and Brightbill’s journey is the red fox Fink, portrayed by Pedro Pascal in his first animated feature film. The dynamic between the characters was ever-changing, and it was liberating and enlightening for Pascal to find the voice that’s right for Fink’s complexity. “Initially, I approached it with ideas of sounding cool and funny, like how you’d imagine a fox would be,” Pascal says. “But Chris helped me move away from those artificial ideas and encouraged me to embrace my own sense of humor, color and ability to be ridiculous. He gave me permission to take big swings and go for it, which was liberating.”


Emmy Award winner Catherine O’Hara plays the possum Pinktail, who’s the first animal Roz successfully communicates with. A mom to multiple litters, she shares with Roz the wisdom she gained in hopefully guiding Roz in raising Brightbill. “Pinktail won’t let Roz get away without embracing motherhood and teaches her the role every day,” O’Hara says. “Pinktail’s strength is in her innate mothering instincts, approaching the role with a matter-of-fact attitude while giving Roz the space to learn through experience, intervening only when needed. Pinktail mothers with a sense of humor, which is a quality my own mother, who raised seven of us, believed to be essential.”


The formidable grizzly bear inhabiting the island, Thorn, is played by pop-culture icon Mark Hamill. Hamill wanted to be fully prepared for his role, and he took thorough measures to embody Thorn.  “I read the entire book, all 279 pages, and then studied the script, which captured the essence of the story while allowing for adaptation to the screen,” Hamill says. “The advantage was having several sequences finished, which gave me a visual sense of the movie’s direction.”


Catch them along with Stephanie Hsu as fellow robot Vontra, and Bill Nighy as the goose Longneck, as The Wild Robot arrives in Philippine cinemas on October 9.


About “The Wild Robot”


From DreamWorks Animation comes a new adaptation of a literary sensation, Peter Brown’s beloved, award-winning, #1 New York Times bestseller, The Wild Robot. 


The epic adventure follows the journey of a robot—ROZZUM unit 7134, “Roz” for short — that is shipwrecked on an uninhabited island and must learn to adapt to the harsh surroundings, gradually building relationships with the animals on the island and becoming the adoptive parent of an orphaned gosling. 


The Wild Robot stars Academy Award® winner Lupita Nyong’o (Us, The Black Panther franchise) as robot Roz; Emmy and Golden Globe nominee Pedro Pascal (The Last of Us, The Mandalorian) as fox Fink; Emmy winner Catherine O’Hara (Schitt’s Creek, Best in Show) as opossum Pinktail; Oscar® nominee Bill Nighy (Living, Love Actually) as goose Longneck; Kit Connor (Heartstopper, Rocketman) as gosling Brightbill and Oscar® nominee Stephanie Hsu (Everything Everywhere All at Once, this summer’s The Fall Guy) as Vontra, a robot that will intersect with Roz’s life on the island. 


The film also features the voice talents of Emmy winning pop-culture icon Mark Hamill (Star Wars franchise, The Boy and the Heron), Matt Berry (What We Do in the Shadows, The SpongeBob Movie franchise) and Golden Globe winner and Emmy nominee Ving Rhames (Mission: Impossible films, Pulp Fiction). 

 

Opens in Philippine cinemas on October 9. Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG) and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest updates on “The Wild Robot.” Join the conversation with #TheWildRobotMoviePH


Photo and video credit: “Universal Pictures International”





Tuesday, September 24, 2024

D.M. Wenceslao Group Shines at the 12th Annual PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards

 PRESS RELEASE 


(From left) D.M. Wenceslao and Associates, Inc. CEO and President Mr. Delfin Angelo C. Wenceslao, Head of Planning and Design Ar. Anthony Ilaga, and Senior Marketing Manager Ms. Bianca Camille Santos receiving the Best Mixed Use Development Award.


ParaƱaque City, Philippines –   D.M. Wenceslao Group, the owner and master developer of Aseana City, proudly announces its recent recognition at the 12th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, where it received accolades highlighting its commitment to sustainability and excellence in urban development. The 2024 edition of the awards celebrates outstanding achievements across various categories, including property development, design, real estate portfolios, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria.


D.M. Wenceslao Group earned three awards at the 12th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, including the prestigious title of Best Mixed-Use Development for Parqal, a Highly Commended award for Best Retail Development (also for Parqal), and a Highly Commended award for Best Mixed-Use Developer for D.M. Wenceslao Group.



Opened in September 2023, Parqal embodies the concept of a “15-minute city,” with a design centered on creating localized neighborhoods that enable residents to access essential services and amenities within a 15-minute walk or bike ride.


“Our vision for Parqal is to redefine urban living by seamlessly integrating environmental sustainability with functionality and diversity in its product and service offerings. We aim to create a vibrant, accessible, and safe environment where our community can thrive and forge meaningful social connections,” said Buds Wenceslao, CEO and President of D.M. Wenceslao and Associates, Inc. “These accolades from PropertyGuru serve as a testament to our unwavering commitment to developing projects that truly enhance our residents’ quality of life.”



Earlier this year, the company celebrated multiple recognitions for Parqal. The development received 5-Star BERDE certifications from the Philippine Green Building Council, followed by significant wins in both local and international award programs, including Winner - Mid-Rise Structure Category at the 2024 Philippine Excellence in Concrete Construction Awards and  Gold Winner at the MUSE Design Awards in the Architectural Design category for Retail Shops, Department Stores, and Malls. 

Sunday, September 22, 2024

TRANSFORMERS ONE is what most fans wanted to see, making it the best film in the franchise !


 


By : Edgar Allan E. Yu 


TRANSFORMERS ONE is nothing short of a cinematic masterpiece that revitalizes the beloved franchise by diving deep into the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Cybertron, we witness these two iconic characters start as brothers, only to be torn apart and become mortal enemies. This film not only redefines their relationship but also elevates the entire Transformers narrative. Also there are no human characters in here, so the focus is really on the robots.


The action in TRANSFORMERS ONE is truly awesome, delivering pulse-pounding sequences that will reignite your love for the autobots, or if you're a first-time viewer, this is a great intro to the living bots. Coupled with gorgeous animation that brings Cybertron to life in vivid detail, this film sets a new standard for what live-action Transformers movies should aspire to achieve. The visual effects are stunning, making every battle feel grand and impactful. It helps that the film is animated, making the filmmakers only limit is their imagination.



Moreover, TRANSFORMERS ONE doesn’t shy away from humor; it seamlessly weaves in plenty of funny moments that provide levity amidst the intense action. The voice acting is another highlight—each character is brought to life by talented actors who infuse personality and depth into their roles. Scarlett Johansson as Elita-1 and Keegan Michael Key as Bumblebee did good, while Bryan Tyler Henry as D16 and Chris Hemsworth as Orion Pax both did an excellent job portraying their roles.


In short, TRANSFORMERS ONE stands as the best film in the Transformers franchise! It’s an exhilarating experience filled with heart, humor, and high-octane action that fans have been waiting for. Don’t miss out on this incredible journey through Cybertron, it's a must-see for anyone who loves great storytelling combined with spectacular visuals ! 



Photo credit: Paramount Pictures International 

#TransformersONE

@paramountpicsph 


Saturday, September 21, 2024

SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT. TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE FOR “JOKER: FOLIE ƀ DEUX,” IN CINEMAS OCTOBER 2

 

Joaquin Phoenix as Arthur Fleck/Joker and Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn in “Joker: Folie Ć  Deux”

Photo credit: Niko Tavernise

Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Ent. Inc. All rights reserved.


The perfect pair for mayhem will soon descend into madness. Get your tickets to “Joker: Folie Ć  Deux” now. The sequel, starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, opens in cinemas October 2. 


Watch: https://youtu.be/7JQXdKV4wWw?si=4VH7WFM0N8S3FSqJ


“It’s a film where music is an essential element,” said director Todd Phillips at CinemaCon earlier this year. “Arthur [Fleck]’s weird and aloof and all these things, but he has music in him. He has a grace to him. That informed a lot of the dancing in the first film... it didn’t feel like that big of a step here. It’s different, but I think it’ll make sense when you see it.”


In “Joker: Folie Ć  Deux,” Arthur Fleck/Joker is institutionalized at Arkham awaiting trial for his crimes as Joker. While struggling with his dual identity, Arthur not only stumbles upon true love, but also finds the music that’s always been inside him.


“Joker: Folie Ć  Deux,” distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, opens only in cinemas October 2. #JokerMovie


OCTOBER 2024 MOVIES

 


Don’t miss these movies, opening in cinemas in October!


#JokerMovie


October 2 - Joker: Folie Ć  Deux (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga, Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, Zazie Beetz

Directed by: Todd Phillips

Trailer


“Joker: Folie Ć  Deux” finds Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) institutionalized at Arkham awaiting trial for his crimes as Joker. While struggling with his dual identity, Arthur not only stumbles upon true love, but also finds the music that’s always been inside him.


#TheWildRobotPH


October 9 - The Wild Robot (Universal Pictures) 

Cast: Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, Catherine O’Hara, Bill Nighy, Kit Connor, Mark Hamill Directed by: Chris Sanders

Trailer 1, Trailer 2, Final trailer


From DreamWorks Animation comes a new adaptation of a literary sensation, Peter Brown’s beloved, award-winning, #1 New York Times bestseller, “The Wild Robot.” The epic adventure follows the journey of a robot – ROZZUM unit 7134, “Roz” for short – that is shipwrecked on an uninhabited island and must learn to adapt to the harsh surroundings, gradually building relationships with the animals on the island and becoming the adoptive parent of an orphaned gosling. 


#ChristopherReeveStory


October 16 - Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story (Warner Bros. Pictures) 

Directed by: Ian BonhĆ“te & Peter Ettedgui (“McQueen”)

Trailer


The story of Christopher Reeve is an astonishing rise from unknown actor to iconic movie star. Reeve portrayed the Man of Steel in four “Superman” films and played dozens of other roles that displayed his talent and range as an actor, before being injured in a near-fatal horse-riding accident in 1995 that left him paralyzed from the neck down. After becoming a quadriplegic, he became a charismatic leader and activist in the quest to find a cure for spinal cord injuries, as well as a passionate advocate for disability rights and care – all while continuing his career in cinema in front of and behind the camera and dedicating himself to his beloved family. This film includes never-before-seen intimate home movies and an extraordinary trove of personal archive material, as well as the first extended interviews ever filmed with Reeve’s three children about their father, and interviews with the A-list Hollywood actors who were Reeve’s colleagues and friends.


#Smile2


October 16 - Smile 2 (Paramount Pictures) 

Cast: Naomi Scott, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, RaĆŗl Castillo, Kyle Gallner

Directed by: Parker Finn

Trailer


About to embark on a new world tour, global pop sensation Skye Riley (Naomi Scott) begins experiencing increasingly terrifying and inexplicable events. Overwhelmed by the escalating horrors and the pressures of fame, Skye is forced to face her dark past to regain control of her life before it spirals out of control.



#Venom

October 23 - Venom: The Last Dance (Columbia Pictures) 
Cast: Tom Hardy, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Juno Temple, Rhys Ifans, Peggy Lu
Directed by: Kelly Marcel
Trailer 1, Final Trailer

In “Venom: The Last Dance,” Tom Hardy returns as Venom, one of Marvel’s greatest and most complex characters, for the final film in the trilogy. Eddie and Venom are on the run. Hunted by both of their worlds and with the net closing in, the duo are forced into a devastating decision that will bring the curtains down on Venom and Eddie’s last dance.






October 23 - The Colors Within (Encore Films Philippines) 
Cast: Sayu Suzukawa, Akari Takaishi, Taisei Kido, Aoi YÅ«ki, Keiko Toda, Minako Kotobuki
Directed by: Naoko Yamada

High school student Totsuko (Sayu Suzukawa) can see the “colors” of others – colors of bliss, excitement, serenity, and many others. She forms a band with fellow student Kimi (Akari Takaishi), who gives off the most beautiful color Totsuko has ever seen. Rounding out their band is Rui (Taisei Kido), a music enthusiast they meet in a far corner of town. Even though Totsuko does not play an instrument, music brings them together.

*Schedules are subject to change without prior notice.*


Thursday, September 19, 2024

WANTED: WICKEDLY TALENTED SINGERS! GIVE IT YOUR BEST BIRIT! IT’S TIME TO TRY DEFYING GRAVITY IN “AWITING WICKED.” GET A CHANCE TO BE A PART OF THE PHILIPPINE RENDITION OF “DEFYING GRAVITY” FROM “WICKED” AND APPEAR IN THE MUSIC VIDEO

 


Filipino singers wanted! Universal Pictures Philippines wants aspiring singers from across the country to take a leap and submit your rendition of the song “Defying Gravity” from the hit musical “Wicked.” Winners will get a chance to sing the Philippines’ rendition of the song in a music video in the “Awiting Wicked” contest. 


The official Universal Pictures Philippines TikTok account (@UniversalPicsPH) has posted the  Awiting Wicked announcement and clips from the upcoming film “Wicked,” with the instrumental version of “Defying Gravity” that contestants can duet with. Entries should be tagged #AwitingWicked and entrants should set their accounts to public privacy setting so the video is visible. The promo will run from September 18 to September 29, 2024, after which thirty (30) winners will be given the chance to sing their rendition of “Defying Gravity,” and be part of the music video that will debut alongside “Wicked” as it arrives in Philippine cinemas on November 20, 2024.


For more information on “Awiting Wicked,” full mechanics are posted here. Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG), and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest updates on “Awiting Wicked” and the highly anticipated film adaptation of beloved musical classic, “Wicked.”



About Wicked movie

After two decades as one of the most beloved and enduring musicals on the stage, Wicked makes its long-awaited journey to the big screen as a spectacular, generation-defining cinematic event. 


Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights), Wicked is the first chapter of a two-part immersive, cultural celebration. Wicked Part Two is scheduled to arrive in theaters on November 26, 2025.


Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo (Harriet, Broadway’s The Color Purple) as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman, gilded by privilege and ambition, who has yet to discover her true heart.


The film also stars Oscar® winner Michelle Yeoh as Shiz University’s regal headmistress Madame Morrible; Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton, Fellow Travelers) as Fiyero, a roguish and carefree prince; Tony nominee Ethan Slater (Broadway’s Spongebob Squarepants, Fosse/Verdon) as Boq, an altruistic Munchkin student; Marissa Bode in her feature-film debut as Nessarose, Elphaba’s favored sister; and pop culture icon Jeff Goldblum as the legendary Wizard of Oz.


The cast of characters includes Pfannee and ShenShen, two conniving compatriots of Glinda played by Emmy nominee Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live) and Bronwyn James (Harlots); a new character created for the film, Miss Coddle, played by Tony nominee Keala Settle (The Greatest Showman) and four-time Emmy winner Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones) as the voice  of Dr. Dillamond.


Wicked is produced by Marc Platt (La La Land, The Little Mermaid), whose films, television shows and stage productions have earned a combined 46 Oscar® nominations, 58 Emmy nominations and 36 Tony nominations, and by multiple Tony winner David Stone (Kimberly Akimbo, Next to Normal), with whom Platt produced the blockbuster Wicked stage musical. The executive producers are David Nicksay, Stephen Schwartz and Jared LeBoff.


Based on the bestselling novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked is adapted for the screen by the stage production’s book writer Winnie Holzman and by legendary Grammy and Oscar® winning composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz. The Broadway stage musical is produced by Universal Stage Productions, Marc Platt, the Araca Group, Jon B. Platt and David Stone.


Monday, September 16, 2024

REVIEWS ARE IN! CRITICS SAY “TRANSFORMERS ONE” IS “THE BEST TRANSFORMERS MOVIE EVER MADE”

“Transformers One” rolls out in Philippine cinemas September 18


Orion Pax in Transformers One

Photo credit: Paramount Pictures


Reviews for Transformers One have started to come out, and reactions from critics have so far been mostly positive. 


“TRANSFORMERS ONE is by far and away the best Transformers film to date,” raved a critic for Next Best Picture. “Rich in character and emotion with a deep reverence for the lore, it tells the origins of Optimus Prime and Megatron, tragically transforming once from brothers to enemies. Josh Cooley directed this animated film to perfection, down to the last comedic and action beat, all backed by an epic score and an excellent voice cast.”


The Hollywood Reporter praised the film’s “gorgeous 3D-style computer animation” which they described as “a wonder to behold throughout.” They also described the story as a “thoroughly entertaining origin story that even the uninitiated can enjoy. Besides the raucous, de rigueur action sequences, Transformers One provides numerous witty jokes of both the verbal and visual variety and – surprise, surprise – genuine emotion. Consider this a franchise revitalized.”


Variety was also impressed, saying, “while still delivering the fun and excitement expected of Hasbro’s metamorphosizing robots, Transformers One approaches the well-known characters with a degree of nuance and complexity that marks the most sophisticated onscreen portrait of them to date.”



D-16 in Transformers One
Photo credit: Paramount Pictures 


“Transformers One is a mesmerizing CGI adventure chock-full of thrilling action scenes, great humor, and a thoughtful script with powerful themes. Raise your expectations, because Transformers One sets a new high standard for the long-running franchise,” lauded MovieWeb. 

Comicbook.com praised the “exceptionally strong story,” voice cast and animation, and the reviewer said that “I would be remiss by not calling this the best Transformers film since the 1980s animated film. If this is the future of the Transformers franchise, then Autobot and Decepticons fans have a bright future to look forward to indeed.”

Like critics, fans who have seen the film loved it. Watch reactions from the U.S. fan screening here: https://youtu.be/GZsX0fB2wTI 

Transformers One is the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, better known as sworn enemies, but once were friends bonded like brothers who changed the fate of Cybertron forever. The star-studded voice cast includes Chris Hemsworth (Orion Pax/Optimus Prime), Brian Tyree Henry (D-16/Megatron), Scarlett Johansson (Elita-1), Keegan-Michael Key (B-127), Steve Buscemi (Starscream), Laurence Fishburne (Alpha Trion) and Jon Hamm (Sentinel Prime).

Please stand by

Transformers One has two post credits sequences that are not to be missed. So please stay till the end! 

Rolling out in Philippine cinemas September 18, Transformers One is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Join the conversation with the hashtag #TransformersOne and tag @paramountpicsph

About Transformers One

Directed by: Josh Cooley
Based on Hasbro’s Transformers™ Action Figures 
Story by: Andrew Barrer & Gabriel Ferrari 
Screenplay by: Eric Pearson and Andrew Barrer & Gabriel Ferrari 
Executive producers: Steven Spielberg, Zev Foreman, Olivier Dumont, Bradley J. Fischer, B.J. Farmer, Matt Quigg 
Producers: Lorenzo di Bonaventura, p.g.a., Tom DeSanto & Don Murphy, Michael Bay, Mark Vahradian, p.g.a., Aaron Dem, p.g.a. 

Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”




Friday, September 13, 2024

THEY’RE IN THIS TOGETHER. WATCH THE FINAL TRAILER FOR “VENOM: THE LAST DANCE”

 

Photo credit: Columbia Pictures


At the end of everything, all they need is each other. Watch the curtains fall on Eddie and Venom in “Venom: The Last Dance.” Crashing through Philippine cinemas on October 23.

 

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


About Venom: The Last Dance



Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

In Venom: The Last Dance, Tom Hardy returns as Venom, one of Marvel’s greatest and most complex characters, for the final film in the trilogy. Eddie and Venom are on the run. Hunted by both of their worlds and with the net closing in, the duo are forced into a devastating decision that will bring the curtains down on Venom and Eddie’s last dance.


Venom: The Last Dance stars Tom Hardy, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Juno Temple, Rhys Ifans, Peggy Lu, Alanna Ubach and Stephen Graham. The film is directed by Kelly Marcel from a screenplay she wrote, based on a story by Hardy and Marcel. The film is produced by Avi Arad, Matt Tolmach, Amy Pascal, Kelly Marcel, Tom Hardy and Hutch Parker.


In cinemas October 23, Venom: The Last Dance is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #Venom @columbiapicph



Thursday, September 12, 2024

Father-Son Comedy Duo Eugene and Dan Levy to Host the 76th Emmy Awards

Mark your calendars for September 16 and tune in live to the 76th Emmy Awards, streaming exclusively in the Philippines on Lionsgate Play. 




Emmy® Award-winning multi-hyphenates Eugene Levy and Dan Levy — from the hit series Schitt’s Creek — are set to host the 76th Emmy® Awards and will be the first-ever father-son duo to do so. The 76th Emmy® Awards will air live coast to coast from the Peacock Theater at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles on MONDAY, SEPT. 16 (8:00am onwards. PHT), streaming exclusively on Lionsgate Play in the Philippines.

“For two Canadians who won our Emmys in a literal quarantine tent, the idea of being asked to host this year in an actual theater was incentive enough,” said Eugene and Dan. “We’re thrilled to be able to raise a glass to this extraordinary season of television and can’t wait to spend the evening with you all.”

“Eugene’s and Dan’s comedic intuition and uncanny ability to capture the hearts of viewers will make for a memorable Emmys telecast honoring this year’s best and brightest,” said Craig Erwich, president, Disney Television Group.

“We are thrilled to welcome two generations of comedy genius to the Emmys stage as hosts,” said Television Academy Chair Cris Abrego. “Eugene and Dan Levy are known for creating unforgettable laugh-out-loud moments on screen, and together, they are super-charged. I cannot wait for Emmys fans to see what they have in store for all of us.” 

“Eugene and Dan Levy created two of the most iconic TV characters in recent history and are a perfect fit to host television’s biggest night,” said Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay for Jesse Collins Entertainment. “We look forward to the audience having an unforgettable experience with this dynamic duo.”

Jesse Collins Entertainment Executive Producers Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay have reassembled the production team from last year's critically acclaimed 75th Emmy Awards telecast. Alex Rudzinski returns as director, Brittany Brazil returns as co-executive producer, as does producer Taryn Hurd, production designer Brian Stonestreet, and head writer Jon Macks. Emmy Award winner Rickey Minor will serve as music director for the sixth time. Lighting designer Noah Mitz and screen producer Drew Findley are returning from last year as well. Eric Cook is joining the team as co-executive producer. 



Join the fun and excitement and watch the 76th Emmy Awards exclusively on Lionsgate Play!


Wednesday, September 11, 2024

Director Chookiat “Matthew” Sakveerakul embarks on his most ambition project in his 20-year career with “Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide”

 


Spanning a career of twenty years, director Chookiat “Matthew” Savkeerakul is back with his most ambitious film yet with the sci-fi epic, “Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide.” “Our time and our daily life—do they really exist? Are we human beings, flesh and blood, biological masses or in fact reflections of something? These thoughts have been inspiring me for a long time and I’ve been looking for an opportunity to turn them into a film,” Savkeerakul explains his inspiration for the film.


Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/PWWYkv92IK8


Throughout his career, Savkeerakul has made films that are considered Thai cinema milestones. His 2007 romance film “The Love of Siam,” dominated in all local film events of that year, bagging the Best film awards in every major competition. In “Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide,” he pivots into the realm of sci-fi. “To begin with, I love sci-fi movies. Having read articles about the world, universe, space and different dimensions, I find that they’re as mysterious as ghost stories,” he says.


He explains the depth of the world he created for “Taklee Genesis,” and how real-world speculations inspired him for the film. “In the film, the ‘Taklee Genesis’ is an American experiment project during the Vietnam War. The name ‘Taklee’ is because the Taklee district is where the largest US base in Southeast Asia was at the time. There were others too like the ones in Sattahip district and Udon Thani province. I think for such a large base as that in Taklee there must be something else. Recently, there have been many speculations about Taklee’s secrets—for example, extra-terrestrials lived there. Hey, people have talked about these. Check YouTube,” he lightheartedly says.



The casting choices were integral to the story of “Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide,” with Paula Taylor, Peter Corp Dyrendal, War Wanarat leading the film. “I worked with Paula and Peter a few years ago. I want Paula to perform in a film because she has a strong cinematic charisma and was a symbol of rom-com in a certain period. She’s also adept and effortlessly sympathetic,” Savkeerakul explains. “Peter also did some research for more background information. He even corrected my mistakes, saying, ‘Matthew, it’s not a million years ago: it’s actually 75-76 million.’ Well, he also made corrections of some details in the script. So nice of him! He’s as geeky as me: he understood everything in the script. I was very surprised how he got it all: he’s also interested in this kind of thing,” he continues.


In the end, Savkeerakul feels like “Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide” is an opportunity to broaden the scope of Thai films. “It’s the kind of project I don’t know if I’d ever have a chance to work on again. I realized it’s not easy when I was doing it. It’s another milestone for Thai films. Who else would be courageous and crazy enough to support me to do it? I’m all for it but I wouldn’t call it the acme of my career. I’d rather it be a door which opens opportunities for my more ambitious projects in the future and for those who love sci-fi and challenging film projects to further develop themselves.”


“Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide” takes you on an interstellar journey starting September 18. “Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide" is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.


Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #TakleeGenesis.


Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Awesome Starts Here: Experience the new Galaxy A06

 


It’s time to kickstart your awesome Samsung journey. Awesome begins with the all-new Galaxy A06, starting at just P5,790!

Featuring a sleek design, cutting-edge security, and cameras that capture every moment flawlessly, this phone is the perfect way to experience the Galaxy advantage. Grab it now and unlock exclusive offers worth up to P2,690. 

Awesome starts with dope specs

Snag the phones that match your aesthetic. The Galaxy A06 comes in sleek Blue Black and cool Light Blue, now slimmer at just 8mm. Unlocking is a breeze with the side fingerprint sensor, giving you quick and secure access. Plus, with Samsung Knox Vault, it’s like having a double layer of security—your PINs, passwords, and private info are safe from hackers and external threats.

Flex your unique vibe with awesome photos, thanks to the Galaxy A06’s dual rear camera setup, featuring a 50MP main sensor and a 2MP depth sensor. And for those selfie moments, the 8MP front camera has you covered!

You can also multitask effortlessly with the Galaxy A06’s MediaTek G85 processor, while the 5,000mAh battery keeps you powered for longer. And whether gaming, streaming, or browsing, the 6.7-inch HD+PLS LCD screen ensures everything looks vibrant and sharp.

Start fresh with awesome freebies

Awesome starts with amazing freebies up to P2,690 when you buy a Galaxy A06 now! Get P1,000 off on this phone when you trade in any J Series device, an additional P500 for Samsung Members, plus a FREE Travel Adapter worth P1,190 when you purchase a Galaxy A06 until December 31, 2024. Additionally, you can get up to 20% off on the Galaxy Buds3 series and 10% off on Galaxy Watch Ultra and Watch7 when you buy them with the Galaxy A06 until September 30, 2024.

Don’t miss out on this incredible deal— start your awesome journey with Samsung and get your Galaxy A06, now available at Samsung Experience Stores, online shops, and participating retail partners. For more information, visit  www.samsung.com/ph/.


Terms and conditions apply.


Sunday, September 8, 2024

Discover South Korea Like Never Before As KTO Manila Kicks Off Korea Travel Fiesta 2024

 

(Esteemed guests perform a ceremonial gesture symbolizing the magical experience of Korea's first snow. From left: Korea Tourism Organization Manila Office Director, HyungJoon Kim; EXO's Xiumin; Honorary Ambassador for Korea Family Tourism in the Philippines, Melai Cantiveros-Francisco; Ambassador of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines, H.E. Sang-Hwa Lee; Korea Tourism Organization Acting President, Young Choong Seo; Department of Tourism Undersecretary for Administration and Finance, Atty. Shereen Gail C. Yu-Pamintuan; Republic of Korea’s Ambassador for Cultural Cooperation, Jie Ae Sohn; South Korean singer PUNCH; and Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines Director, MyeongJin Kim) 



(Korea Tourism Organization Acting President, Mr. Young Choong 
Seo, welcomes guests to the Korea Travel Fiesta 2024)

In celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Korea, the Korean Tourism Organization (KTO) Manila Office officially staged the Korean Travel Fiesta 2024, a two day celebration at the Glorietta Activity Center and Palm Drive Activity Center in Makati City that invites Filipinos to witness and experience a vibrant showcase of Korea’s tourism and culture.


(The Republic of Korea Ambassador for Cultural Cooperation, Ms. Jie Ae Sohn, offers a congratulatory message celebrating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Korea)


At the heart of the celebration were different zones that offered immersive and interactive experience showcasing Korean culture. Attendees were free to explore the different booths and activities to discover more of what makes Korea special. The featured zones included the K-Travel Zone, which offered essential travel information for anyone looking to visit Korea; the K-Activity Zone, which provided an authentic Korean experience for attendees to taste Korean cuisine, try on Hanbok, learn history, and enjoy various K-pop and K-beauty themed activities; and the Kids Zone, which featured a fun and engaging creative space for younger attendees to enjoy DIY activities like handicraft making of K-themed keychains and hairclips.


Aside from the themed booths, the event also featured exhibitors such as airlines, travel agencies, regional tourism organizations, tour attractions, telecommunication companies, and banks, which all showcased their various offerings for attendees planning their next trip to Korea.


(Kokoy De Santos, Glaiza De Castro, and Buboy Villar opens the program by sharing their experiences in Running Man PH and their visit in Korea)


The two-day event kicked off with a lively performance from KTO’s very own Kingdom Friends characters featuring Hojong, Mugo, and Kawoo, setting the tone for the weekend’s festivities. Guests were also treated to appearances and performances from various artists from the Philippines and Korea. Running Man PH mainstays Glaiza De Castro, Kokoy De Santos, and Buboy Villar graced the stage for a talk show where they shared their experiences in the program and visit in Korea. A performance from the Korean musical CHEF came next, which featured a comedic and impressive fusion of beatboxing and breakdancing centered around Korea’s bibimbap dish.


(Korean musical act CHEF turns up the heat with a comedic and explosive fusion of beatboxing, dancing and cooking) 


(Melai Cantiveros-Francisco, Honorary Ambassador for Korea Family Tourism in the Philippines, talks about the different tourist spots she visited with her family in Korea)


Actress and comedian Melai Cantiveros-Francisco also made an appearance for her talk show discussing family tourism, which was followed by live performances from Korean artists: PUNCH, known as the voice of various K-drama soundtracks, serenaded guests with her sweet voice; Korean hip-hop dance team WOLF’LO treated audiences to an exhilarating performance; and K-pop singer Xiumin from EXO shared some tips and recommendations for hopeful travelers planning to visit Korea before performing his energetic songs.



(South Korean singer PUNCH brings the audience’s favorite K-drama 
moments to life with her soundtrack songs) 




(Xiumin’s electrifying performance captured the hearts of viewers)



(Hip-hop dance group WOLF’LO ends the ceremony with a fiery 
showcase of Korean street culture)


The Korea Travel Fiesta 2024 also featured a slew of activities, including demos to engage attendees such as personal color, makeup and hair demonstration sessions led by Korean experts, and various challenges such as the Spicy Ramen Challenge, Blindfold Make-up Challenge, and K-pop Random Play Dance that included participation from attendees.  


As Filipinos prepare for their overseas trips for the holidays, the Korea Travel Fiesta aims to promote and showcase the charm of Korea’s magical winter, offering attendees an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Korean culture and society.


(A roaring crowd greets EXO’s Xiumin at the Korea Travel Fiesta 2024)


“Filipinos have always loved Korean culture so the Korea Travel Fiesta is our special way to show our appreciation for the support we have received over the years. As the holiday season rolls in, we'd like to invite Filipino families and groups to visit Korea for their holiday trips and experience everything Korea has to offer during the beautiful winter season, from the beautiful snow-covered sceneries, to the different winter activities and festivals,” Mr. Young Choong Seo, Acting President of Korea Tourism Organization. 



Follow the Korean Tourism Organization Manila Office at facebook.com/koreatourismmanila on Facebook and @ktomanila on Instagram to stay updated on the latest news about Korean culture and tourism.




BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE Resurrects That Gothic Feeling



By Edgar Allan E. Yu 


"Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" is finally here, and it’s everything fans of the original could hope for and more. This long-in-the-works sequel to the 1988 classic brings back that quirky, weird charm that made the first film such a beloved cult hit. You might think a follow-up would struggle to capture the same magic, but "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" manages to do just that—while also embracing its silliness in all the right ways. 


What surprised me most was how much I genuinely enjoyed this film. It’s not just a nostalgia trip; it’s a fresh take on some beloved characters and new characters as well. Michael Keaton is excellent as the title character, while Catherine O'Hara is outstanding. And among the new faces, Jenna Ortega is clearly the stand-out. The humor is sharp, and there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments that remind us why we fell in love with "Beetlejuice" in the first place.




My only gripe is there are too many subplots in this film, and although I enjoyed some of them, most of the new characters were not fully utilized. Monica Bellucci's Delores is sexy and dangerous, but she wasn't given much to do. I would love to see more of her in future Beetlejuice films.


Let’s talk about the soundtrack! It perfectly encapsulates my favorite era of music—the 80s—and adds an extra layer of enjoyment to every scene. From those iconic hits, to that whole Soul Train sequence, they surely enhanced the overall experience and makes you want to dance along.




If you’re looking for a fun escape filled with quirky antics and nostalgic vibes, "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" is definitely worth your time. It's an early Halloween treat ! So grab your popcorn, sit back, and prepare for a wild ride with the ghost with the most.


Photo credit : Warner Bros. Pictures  

Saturday, September 7, 2024

Coco Mama Launches the “Save Our Coconuts” Project; Pledges Long-Term Support to the Coconut Farming Industry

 

The Philippines is one of the world’s biggest producers of coconuts, ranking second largest exporter in the industry across the globe. However, the coconut industry is facing major challenges today. According to the Philippine Coconut Authority, 20% of the country’s coconut trees are senile. Coco Mama, the country’s leading local gata brand, vows to help ease this problem as it launches the “Save Our Coconuts” project. 


Coco Mama led by brand ambassador Ms. Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo, Century Pacific Agricultural Ventures Inc. (CPAVI), The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), and the General Santos City Environment and Natural Resources (CENRO) representatives and volunteers at the Coco Mama “Save Our Coconuts” Project Kickoff Event


Coco Mama’s “Save Our Coconuts” project commits to distributing 100,000 quality coconut seedlings in a span of five years to replace aging trees, providing lasting income to smallholder Filipino coconut farmers. The project aims to contribute to the overall effort to revitalize the Philippine coconut industry.

Coco Mama Marketing Director Mr. Bryan Lingan announces Coco Mama’s commitment to helping coconut farmers in the country


“Through Coco Mama's ‘Save Our Coconuts’ project, we make our commitment to provide quality seedlings to smallholder farmer communities in the region. After all, our mission has always been to delight consumers whenever they prepare classic Filipino gata recipes, and part of this delight is in knowing that the brand they love is also doing its part in helping the coconut farmers,” said Coco Mama Marketing Director Mr. Bryan Lingan.



Century Pacific Agricultural Ventures Inc. (CPAVI) Vice President and General Manager Mr. Noel Tempongko, Jr. talks about the current situation of the Philippine coconut industry and what their company is doing to help




Launched on World Coconut Day in General Santos City, South Cotabato, Coco Mama held a tree planting activity with its brand ambassador Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo, together with the help and support of representatives from the Philippine Coconut Authority, City Environment and Natural Resources Office – General Santos City, Local Government Unit of General Santos City, Century Pacific Agricultural Ventures Inc., and coconut farmers.



Brand ambassador Ms. Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo discusses her involvement in the Coco Mama “Save Our Coconuts” Project 

Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo is honored and thankful to be part of the campaign. She said, “Sometimes, it’s easy to forget that the things we consume daily, like gata, come from the efforts of our hard-working farmers. With the ‘Save Our Coconuts’ project, I am not only able to promote our traditional and nutritious gata dishes to Filipino households but also to make a difference in the lives of the people who help harvest the food we put to the table for our families.”

Coco Mama officially turns over coconut seedlings to the representatives of the General Santos City coconut farming community. In the photo are (from top left) Philippine Coconut Authority-Sarangani's Provincial Manager Mr. Jerry Prongco, Coco Mama Marketing Director Mr. Bryan Lingan, Coco Mama brand ambassador Ms. Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo, Century Pacific Agricultural Ventures Inc. (CPAVI) Vice President and General Manager Mr. Noel Tempongko, Jr., and City Government Assistant Department Head II of the General Santos City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Mr. Manuel A. Torres, Jr. 


Coco Mama’s “Save Our Coconuts” Project is part of the brand’s efforts to contribute to the Philippine Coconut Authority’s bigger mission of rehabilitating the coconut industry and uplifting the lives of the coconut farmers. 


For more information, please visit /CocoMamaPhilippines on Facebook or @cocomamaph on Instagram for more updates.

Embrace Pumpkin Spice Latte Season in the Philippines with These Autumn Vibes Movies

  Sure, we live in the tropics, but who says we can't enjoy the cozy vibes of autumn? With the weather cooling down, it's the perfec...