Thursday, October 31, 2024

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 perfect excuse to curl up with a hot drink and indulge in some cozy autumnal films. Here's a lineup of movies on Lionsgate Play that'll get you in that pumpkin spice and everything nice mood—no matter where you are.


Twilight

Remember when vampires were all the rage? Watching Twilight today is a nostalgic trip back to the 2000s, but it also captures the moody essence of autumn. With Forks's misty forests and overcast skies, you'll feel the cool breeze through the screen. With Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson in the roles that made them household names, follow Bella and Edward as they navigate the complexities of love, the supernatural, and high school.


Silver Linings Playbook

Looking for a film that mixes humor with heartfelt moments? Silver Linings Playbook delivers just that. Starring Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper, this movie offers a fresh perspective on mental health, relationships, and finding your own silver lining. About a bipolar man trying to get his life back on track after his marriage falls apart, this is a movie that will make you feel all the feels.


Blind

Blind follows a novelist (Alec Baldwin) who loses his sight in an accident and rediscovers the world through an unexpected relationship with an indicted businessman's neglected wife (Demi Moore).  This film explores themes of love, loss, and second chances against the backdrop of a charming autumn landscape. For anyone looking for an atypical romance, it's definitely worth a watch.


Stronger

Based on the true story of Jeff Bauman, a Boston Marathon bombing survivor, Stronger is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, this film captures the raw emotions and struggles of a man trying to come to terms with his new reality. It’s a powerful and inspiring movie that will leave you feeling grateful for the little things in life.


Ready to get cozy? Turn up the AC, grab your favorite warm drink, settle into your comfiest spot, and head over to Lionsgate Play to experience these autumn vibes, right from home.





Explore Mind-Bending Horror with Lionsgate Play's Best Psychological Thrillers

 

These Lionsgate Play titles will have you hooked with heart-pounding suspense and edge of your seat thrills.


Halloween is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to get into the spooky spirit than by diving into a marathon of horror movies. From supernatural hauntings to eerie mysteries, Lionsgate Play offers an array of spine-tingling films that will leave you on edge, second guessing every twist and turn.  Here are five must-watch psychological thrillers that promise to elevate your Halloween chills.



1. Rosemary's Baby (Series)

Dive into the sinister world of Rosemary's Baby, a two-part four-hour miniseries based on the iconic horror story for a new generation. Set in Paris, the series follows Rosemary, a young mother-to-be who becomes entangled in a malevolent plot orchestrated by a secretive group. Starring Zoe Saldaña and Patrick J. Adams, this adaptation stays true to the eerie and unsettling tone of Ira Levin's novel, making it a must-watch for horror fans.



2. The Others
Step into an eerie and atmospheric world with The Others. Starring Nicole Kidman, the movie revolves around Grace, a mother living in a remote mansion with her two light-sensitive children. As mysterious occurrences unfold, Grace begins to question her own sanity and the nature of her reality. With its chilling ambiance and unexpected twists, The Others will keep you guessing until its haunting conclusion.



3. Run Rabbit Run
Prepare for a gripping ride with Run Rabbit Run, an Australian psychological horror film that weaves a tale of suspense, fear, and survival. This intense narrative follows Sarah (played by Succession's Sarah Snook), a fertility doctor whose daughter begins to exhibit strange behavior, claiming to have memories from a past life. This prompts Sarah to confront her own painful past.





4. The Blair Witch Project 
Kickstart your Halloween with the cult classic that pioneered the found footage horror genre. The Blair Witch Project follows a group of filmmakers who venture into the Black Hills Forest to document the legendary Blair Witch. What begins as a simple investigation soon turns into a harrowing and terrifying ordeal as they encounter inexplicable phenomena. The film’s raw and immersive style shook the public when it first came out in 1999, and continues to be a staple in the horror genre.




5. Cube
Conclude your Halloween thriller fest with Cube, a psychological sci-fi horror film that explores the limits of human endurance and morality. Six strangers wake up in a cube-like structure, each room presenting deadly challenges. To survive, they must work together to solve the puzzle. With its claustrophobic setting and mind-bending plot, Cube will have you questioning reality and human nature.
Going all in this spooky season? Then dim the lights, grab some popcorn, and start streaming on Lionsgate Play.


About Lionsgate Play
Lionsgate Play, a premium streaming service from Lionsgate India and Starz, offers bespoke quality content to its users. It boasts premium and curated content including Premieres, billion-dollar Franchise Movies and binge-worthy Box Sets. Lionsgate Play is accessible to consumers in the Philippines via the app. For a monthly subscription cost of PHP 79, the titles can be streamed with a PLDT Home account.

For more information about Lionsgate Play Philippines, visit lionsgateplay.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok.



Sunday, October 27, 2024

VENOM: THE LAST DANCE - It's Weird and Wild, But The Last Act Is An Action Spectacle

 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 

Saturday, October 26, 2024

AYALA MALLS CINEMAS TREATS MOVIEGOERS TO A SPOOKTACULAR SEASON WITH “THRILL FEST” FROM OCTOBER 30 TO NOVEMBER 5

 

For only P150, watch horror hits “The Lost Boys,” “Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride” and “Trick ’r Treat” on the big screen – exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas for a limited time only ! 


Photo credit: Ayala Malls Cinemas


Don’t miss the horror event of the season. 


As a special Halloween treat, Ayala Malls Cinemas is bringing back old Hollywood favorites to the big screen as part of their annual “Thrill Fest.” From October 30 to November 5, moviegoers can enchant themselves with a spine-chilling week of horror movie thrills during which “The Lost Boys” and “Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride” will be back in cinemas for a limited run only. 


Another Halloween hit for horror enthusiasts, “Trick ’r Treat” – which was not shown theatrically in the Philippines when it was released in 2009 – will be available in cinemas as well. Fans of the genre (and of movies in general!) can finally watch the cult favorite anthology horror film, from Bryan Singer and Michael Dougherty, on the big screen exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas during Thrill Fest. 


Find out more about this year’s terrifyingly good lineup of cinematic Halloween treats:  



THE LOST BOYS (R13)

Directed by Joel Schumacher

Starring Jason Patric, Corey Haim, Dianne Wiest, Jami Gertz, Kiefer Sutherland, Corey Feldman


A single mother and her two sons, Michael (Jason Patric) and Sam (Corey Haim), move to the small seaside town of Santa Carla to start over. Michael develops a crush on Star (Jami Gertz) and he unknowingly gets involved with a group of vampires who trick him into becoming one of them. To stop himself from fully transforming, Michael, together with his brother and two vampire hunter neighbors, go on a mission to end the vampire gang in their town once and for all. Originally released in 1987. 



TIM BURTON’S CORPSE BRIDE (PG) 



Directed by Mike Johnson and Tim Burton
Voice cast Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Emily Watson, Tracey Ullman, Paul Whitehouse

Based on a 19th-century Russian folktale, “Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride” is a stop-motion animation that tells the story of Victor van Dort (Johnny Depp), who mistakenly marries a corpse and then goes on a hair-raising adventure in the Land of the Dead. Meanwhile, his real fiancée, Victoria Everglot (Emily Watson), goes through frightening changes herself in the Land of the Living as her family plans to wed her, against her will, to another man once they learn that Victor is gone. Originally released in 2005. 





TRICK ’R TREAT (R16) 
Directed by Michael Dougherty. Produced by Bryan Singer
Starring Anna Paquin, Brian Cox, Leslie Bibb, Dylan Baker, Rochelle Aytes, Jean-Luc Bilodeau

From Bryan Singer and Michael Dougherty – the director and screenwriter duo behind “X2” and “Superman Returns” – comes a comic horror anthology perfect for Halloween. “Trick ’r Treat” tells of four terrifying tales that will make audiences laugh and scared out of their wits at the same time. 

Treats, no tricks! 

As an added treat for the season, moviegoers can enjoy each film – “The Lost Boys,” “Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride,” “Trick ’r Treat” – for the very affordable ticket price of P150 only per movie.  

And for everyone’s convenience, “Thrill Fest” will be featured across all 23 sites of Ayala Malls Cinemas: Glorietta 4, Greenbelt 3, Alabang Town Center, Ayala Center Cebu, Market! Market!, TriNoma, MarQuee, Abreeza, Harbor Point, Centrio, Fairview Terraces, Bonifacio High Street, Solenad, Ayala Malls Legazpi, U.P. Town Center, The 30th, Vertis North, Clover Leaf, Feliz, Circuit, Capitol Central Bacolod, Manila Bay and Central Bloc. 

That’s not all! Cinema patrons who will present their Thrill Fest tickets at the Movie Snackbar will get 10% off if they order popcorn. Guests can treat themselves to the Movie Snackbar’s popular flavored popcorn –  


Blazing Cheddar, Texan Barbecue, Real Butter, Sour Cream & Chives and Spooky Black Cheddar – a new variant made especially for Halloween! 

There are other fun activities besides watching horror favorites on the big screen. Those who come in costume can pick random prizes, and kids who bring pumpkin baskets will be given candies.  

With a superior movie lineup and engaging activities, Ayala Malls Cinemas’ Thrill Fest is the premiere horror event of the season. Movie patrons should brace themselves for a scary good time at the movies, thanks to the Cinemas’ state-of-the-art facilities, including plush seating, generous legroom, cutting-edge laser projections, better images and superior audio technologies like Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos. 

On top of the premium cinematic experience, movie lovers (old and new!) get to enjoy cult favorites on the big screen whenever Ayala Malls Cinemas’ re-releases them theatrically on special seasons, such as their annual Thrill Fest every Halloween, available this year in all 23 sites of Ayala Malls Cinemas from October 30 to November 5 only. So hurry and book your Thrill Fest tickets – at only P150 per movie – now! For more information on screening schedules and to book tickets, movie enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the Ayala Malls Cinemas FB and IG pages. Tickets can also be booked in advance by visiting www.sureseats.com or any of the participating cinemas. 

Have a spooktacular Halloween at Ayala Malls Cinemas! 

Century Tuna’s “Saving Our Seas” continues to champion Plastic Circular Economy and strengthens efforts in Reef and Coastal Clean-up


PRESS RELEASE 


After its successful run in 2023, Century Tuna, the country’s no.1 tuna brand, continues to lead the charge in marine conservation in the Philippines, further solidifying its commitment to fighting plastic pollution with the 2nd year of its “Saving Our Seas” campaign. 

Representatives and volunteers from Century Pacific Food Inc. (CPFI), Century Tuna Superbods 2024 finalists, HOPE, and the Local Government of Mabini, Batangas, gathered for the “Saving Our Seas” International Coastal Cleanup Day activity on the coast of Anilao in Batangas.


This 2024, Century Tuna expanded its efforts by leading education drives on the Plastic Circular Economy and responsible plastic waste management, spearheaded initiatives to restore and protect vital coastal areas, and actively engaging with local communities across the country.

Mr. Carlo Endaya, Vice President and General Manager of the Branded Tuna Division, Century Pacific Food Inc., talked about the second year of the “Saving Our Seas” Initiative


“With the second year of the ‘Saving Our Seas’ campaign, Century Tuna is reiterating its commitment to taking proactive steps in protecting our marine environments,” said Mr. Carlo Endaya, Vice President and General Manager of Branded Tuna Division, Century Pacific Food Inc. (CPFI). “That’s why we’re doing this—aside from cleaning the ocean, we want to continue spreading the word and fostering the mindset that we must always work to prevent plastic pollution.”

Ms. Bea Ballesca-Martinez, Century Tuna Marketing Manager, helmed the Coastal Clean-up leg of Century Tuna “Saving Our Seas” in Mabini, Batangas.


In celebration of International Coastal Cleanup Day, Century Tuna initiated a school-based plastic recycling drive in several elementary schools in Mabini, Batangas. In partnership with HOPE’s Aling Tindera Waste-to-Cash program, elementary students were encouraged to collect plastic waste, exchange it for cash, and learn more about the Plastic Circular Economy - where all plastics collected and recycled are diverted away from nature to ensure that it won’t leak back into the open environment.

Ms. Ilusion Farias, HOPE Managing Director shared the importance of teaching students about the Plastic Circular Economy at the Century Tuna “Saving Our Seas” School Plastic Drive


The idea is to help everyone realize that by picking up that piece of plastic, you can not only earn a little extra money for your family but also contribute to solving this global problem and help clean up the Philippines and the world,” said Ms. Ilusion Farias, HOPE Managing Director.

Century Tuna Superbods 2024 finalists led by Century Tuna Superbods 2024 Runner-up Patrick Patawaran, participated in the Century Tuna 'Saving Our Seas' International Coastal Cleanup Day in Mabini, Batangas.


Following the initiative and coinciding with the International Coastal Cleanup Day, representatives from Century Tuna, together with finalists from Century Tuna Superbods 2024 led by Runner-up Patrick Patawaran, CPFI employees, and volunteer divers participated in a coastal and reef cleanup activity in Mabini, Batangas. They were able to collect a total of 357 kilograms of plastic waste from both the shoreline and underwater.

Volunteer divers participated in the Century Tuna ‘Saving Our Seas’ reef cleanup activity in Mabini, Batangas.


The award-winning Century Tuna’s “Saving Our Seas” campaign is a continuation of its bigger mission to aid in marine conservation. Last year, the campaign was able to surpass its initial target of collecting 10 metric tons of plastic waste and avoiding it getting leaked into our seas.


CPFI employees and the Local Government of San Juan, La Union collaborated for the Century Tuna “Saving Our Seas” Earth Day Palit-Plastic Project in San Juan, La Union.

Early this year, “Saving Our Seas” made notable progress with key events such as the Earth Day Palit Plastic Project in La Union and the Superbods Cleanup Drive in Subic Bay, Zambales. These efforts highlight Century Tuna’s dedication to the bigger cause of fighting plastic pollution and educate people on the idea of a Plastic Circular Economy.


Century Tuna Superbods finalists and CPFI executives spearheaded the Century Tuna 'Saving Our Seas' coastal cleanup in Subic Bay, Zambales.

For more information, please visit https://centurytuna.ph/ or visit Century Tuna on Facebook
at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna or @centurytunasuperbods on Instagram for
more updates.




Friday, October 25, 2024

“WE HAD A GREAT TIME ON THIS MOVIE,” SAYS DWAYNE JOHNSON OF WORKING WITH CHRIS EVANS IN THE CHRISTMAS ACTION-COMEDY “RED ONE,” IN CINEMAS NOVEMBER 6. TICKETS NOW ON SALE!


#RedOneMovie only in cinemas November 6


Couldn’t ask for a better duo. Watch Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans talk about working together on their mission to save Christmas in the must-see action-comedy “Red One,” only in cinemas starting November 6. 


YouTube: https://youtu.be/OZvH2kMjH9c?si=mPhhllMmSVi-D880 


“It’s so easy to have chemistry with Dwayne,” says Evans of his co-star. “He’s an incredibly giving actor.”


Johnson only has nice things to say about Evans too. “Chris – he’s got the talent, got the looks, the sense of humor. And we had a great time on this movie.”


Adds director/producer Jake Kasdan: “These two characters have a fun, electric friction between them.” 


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


Directed by Kasdan, who has previously teamed up with Johnson on the blockbuster “Jumanji” movies, “Red One” 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”).


Get in on the Christmas spirit and watch “Red One,” distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, opening in Philippine cinemas November 6. Book your tickets via www.redonemovie.com.ph, or visit the websites of your favorite cinemas! #RedOneMovie


Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”



Monday, October 21, 2024

Venom’s off to the races as “Venom: The Last Dance” and Haas team up at the Austin Race Weekend

 


Now that’s Vorsepower. Venom and the Haas F1 team geared up to take the Austin Race Weekend as they unveiled a custom Venom: The Last Dance F1 show car to display at the racing event. Haas team racers Nico Hulkenberg and Kevin Magnussen also get Venomized with custom Venom helmets.

 

Check out the Venom F1 car here: https://youtu.be/En9N-MltoqM


See the Haas racers go Venom mode here: https://youtu.be/5EyqQEiKeq4


Tickets available now! Check out the ticketing sites of your local cinemas to reserve seats for Venom: The Last Dance, arriving in Philippine cinemas on October 23.



About Venom: The Last Dance


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


Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”


Sunday, October 20, 2024

SMILE 2 Made Me Smile And Scared At The Same Time



By: Edgar Allan E. Yu 

If you’re looking for one of the best horror films this year, look no further than SMILE 2. With a simple plot that hooks you from the start, this film proves that with the right writer and filmmaker, your film is in good hands. Director Parker Finn truly ups the ante with his masterful execution, creating an atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.



Naomi Scott (Aladdin, Charlie's Angels) shines in her role as famous pop star Skye Rylie, showcasing her immense talent as she not only acts but also sings and dances adequately. She gives it her all, going through different emotions, bringing depth and authenticity to a character that resonates with audiences. Definitely the best performance of her career !



Moreover, "Smile 2" delivers when it comes to scares. Most jumpscares are effective and expertly timed, ensuring that your heart races throughout its runtime. This film isn’t just another horror flick; it’s a thrilling experience that demands your attention and leaves you wanting more. Don’t miss out on what could be one of the standout films in this genre this year ! And oh, I'm so looking forward to SMILE 3 ! 


Photo credits : Paramount Pictures

 #Smile2  #SmileMovie 

Friday, October 18, 2024

Teleperformance Philippines is certified Great Place to Work® for record-breaking seventh consecutive year

 

PRESS RELEASE 



Manila, Philippines, October 2024 — For the 7th year running, Teleperformance in the Philippines has earned the prestigious Great Place to Work® certification. The 2024 independent survey saw over 40,000 employee responses from Teleperformance’s 27 locations in the country.

In the large category (companies with over 1,000 employees), Teleperformance Philippines secured an impressive fifth-place ranking—a feat that further cemented its status as a top employer.

“Being named a Great Place to Work® for the 7th year in a row is a huge achievement and a testament to the dedication of our customer experts and team members. I am particularly proud of TP’s Impact Sourcing initiatives for this year, which focuses on training and employing individuals who may otherwise be overlooked by traditional employers. We’re excited to continue building an even better workplace culture powered by human empathy and enhanced by cutting-edge technology,” said Chief Executive Officer Rahul Jolly. 



Teleperformance in the Philippines’ 7th Great Place to Work badge and certificate

According to the survey results, an impressive 88% of employees affirmed that TP is a “physically safe place to work.” Another 86% agree that they are treated fairly regardless of sexual orientation and are given the resources and equipment to do their jobs. 

The 2024 survey results further emphasize Teleperformance's strengths in key areas such as credibility, respect, fairness, pride, and camaraderie. Nearly 80% of Teleperformance Philippines’ employees affirm that the company is a great place to work, significantly outperforming the national average of 65% for other companies in the country.

The organization first achieved the Great Place To Work® certification in 2018. This year marks a milestone for Teleperformance as the first and longest GPTW®-certified company in the Philippines. 

Lola Amour goes to TP 

As part of Magnificent 7, TP’s celebration of its 7th GPTW recertification, employees were treated to an exciting event featuring a live performance by the renowned Filipino rock band, Lola Amour.



Lola Amour performs to a crowd of 1,500 at the Magnificent 7 celebration in Teleperformance Ayala last September.

With the back-to-back celebration of TP in September and October, the band energized the Teleperformance Ayala and Teleperformance Clark crowd with their hit singles, “Pwede Ba,” “Fallen,” and “Raining in Manila.” Sixty lucky employees were also selected for an exclusive meet-and-greet and photo opportunity with Lola Amour. 



Lola Amour jams with the Teleperformance employees for their hour-long set at the  Magnificent 7 celebration in TP Clark.

In addition to Lola Amour's performance, TP employees took center stage at the Magnificent 7 celebrations. At TP Ayala, TP’s very own dance crew energized the crowd, 


while solo acts Aimengard Akira Nacor and Mc James Serdan captivated the audience with their renditions of OPM hit songs.



The TP Ayala Dance Crew captivated the audience with their high-powered performance. 



The TP Clark Dance Crew delivered a special performance at the Magnificent 7 celebration last October.


The excitement continued in Pampanga with the TP Clark Dance Crew, followed by impressive performances from TP Trainer Ronaliza Garcia, and Quality Coach Sittie Raifa Pangadapun. An acoustic medley was also prepared by Operations Manager Danielle Miko Del Mundo and TP Clark Site Director Justine Kenneth Abellera. 

TP’s employee-focused programs

As Teleperformance Philippines continues to grow, it remains dedicated to fostering a supportive work environment for all its employees. Through TP Pride and TP Women’s programs, the organization launched several employee-focused initiatives. One of which include an all-year round Virtual Kwentuhan sessions focused on gender equality and empowerment in the workplace.

Roy Roger Castro Jr., from Program Employee Engagement, highlighted the impact of leadership at TP: “We feel welcomed, and our emotions are validated. When we give feedback, they really listen. I see this firsthand, and whenever our customer experts have concerns, leadership is there to hear them out."

Doubling down to its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), TP’s Project Echo program also provided valuable hands-on experience to the students of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies. 

Levi Bautista, a Quality Specialist, also expressed his appreciation for the company’s focus on employee development through continuous learning. He shared, "One of the things I love about TP is the wide range of upskilling courses they offer. There are plenty of programs I can take, usually around communication, people management, and coaching. They even offer online training, which makes it really convenient."

Beyond the GPTW certification, Teleperformance Philippines has received several accolades in 2024. The company was recently honored by the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE) for its successful completion of the Gender Equality Assessment, Results, and Strategies (GEARS) tool. Teleperformance also participated in ASEAN-wide gender equality case studies and was recognized for its outstanding contributions to DE&I.


“This recognition from Great Place to Work® is truly a proud moment for us. Teleperformance Philippines’ continued success reflects the highest standards of workplace inclusion that we uphold. Our commitment is to be constantly working each year to build on our employee’s experiences and continue to create a workplace that everyone is proud of” said Chief People Officer Jeffrey Johnson. 


Thursday, October 17, 2024

NOVEMBER 2024 MOVIES

 


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


#RedOneMovie


November 6 - Red One (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, Lucy Liu, J.K. Simmons

Directed by: Jake Kasdan

TrailerTrailer 2


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.



 

#aka #anokowadaare #classmates


November 13 - SANA: Let Me Hear (Encore Films) 

Cast: Nagisa Shibuya, Hayase Ikoi, Soma Santoki

Directed by: Takashi Shimizu

Trailer


In 1992, a rooftop confrontation between schoolgirls ends in tragedy as one girl, Sana, accidentally falls to her death. Mysteriously, a cassette recorder was found next to her body, still recording. 32 years later, a young woman named Honoka (Nagisa Shibuya) is hired to teach summer classes at the same school. History repeats itself as another student falls from the same building, witnessed by Honoka and her students, Hitomi (Hayase Ikoi) and Takeru (Soma Santoki).


#WickedMoviePH


November 20 - Wicked (Universal Pictures) 

Stars: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, Peter Dinklage

Directed by: Jon M. Chu

TrailerTrailer 2


“Wicked” is the story of the witches of Oz when they meet as students at Shiz University. Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), who stands out because of her green skin, and Glinda (Ariana Grande), a popular and ambitious woman, forge an unlikely yet profound friendship. A journey across the land of Oz and an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (Jeff Goldblum) tests their friendship and takes their lives on very different paths.


*Schedules are subject to change without prior notice.*






Wednesday, October 16, 2024

The beginning of the end; how director Kelly Marcel choreographed "Venom: the Last Dance”

 

 


Director Kelly Marcel thinks that Venom: The Last Dance is a lot of things, as she closes off the final chapter in the trilogy. “The Venom trilogy is a classic rom-com, really,” Marcel says, laughing. “Eddie Brock and Venom meet in the first film. In Venom: Let There Be Carnage, they’ve got the seven year itch and they break up. Now, as we conclude their story, they have finally learned to live with each other, they’ve finally reached symbiosis, but will they be able to stay together?”


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


Marcel finally helms the film as a director, after being involved with the last two Venom films as a co-writer, executive producer for Venom, and producer for Venom: Let There Be Carnage. She’s excited to get back into the world of Venom and her longtime collaboration with Tom Hardy, who co-wrote the film and plays both Eddie and Venom. “Tom and I have a really good language with each other,” Marcel says. “He understands my writing, and I know how to build characters for him that he enjoys playing. For The Last Dance, we spent a week in a hotel in London just bashing out the story from morning ’til morning. Tom and I agreed that this movie needs to be the biggest, most amped up Venom of them all, and we’re lucky the studio trusts us to make it in the way that we see it and feel it.”


Along with the continuation of the saga is the evolution of Eddie and Venom as characters and the relationship between them. “Eddie Brock is a pretty selfish guy when you first meet him in Venom,” says Marcel. “He destroys his relationship by lying to his fiancée and ending her career. He’s a journalist who enjoys his own face and fame, and Venom completely destroys all of that and strips him down to his basic self. In Venom: The Last Dance, Eddie is older and wiser, and he’s learned so much more patience and tolerance. He’s learned how to really love someone.”


When writing Venom: the Last Dance both Marcel and Hardy had an ear out for what fans love about the films, and what made it work for the previous two movies. “We’re very inspired by the comics, and we wanted to listen to the fans and see where they want this story to go next,” Marcel says. “But we knew that we were going to be concluding this trilogy, and we wanted to make it emotional. We wanted to take Venom and Eddie’s relationship to the next level.”


Don’t miss the end of a saga as Venom

: The Last Dance arrives in Philippine cinemas on October 23. Tickets available now! Check out the ticketing sites of your local cinemas to reserve seats.





About Venom: The Last Dance


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


Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

Have you heard? Tickets are on sale now for “Wicked,” only cinemas Nov. 20!

 


Don’t miss the chance to be part of one of 2024’s most anticipated movies, as tickets to “Wicked” are now available! The big-screen adaptation to the  hit musical phenomenon is coming to Philippine theaters on November 20, but fans and moviegoers can now reserve tickets as early as today.


Watch the announcement, with a snippet from the songs “Popular” and “Defying Gravity” here: https://tinyurl.com/5yxax5v6


Check out the ticketing sites of your local cinemas to reserve seats for Wicked.


Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG) and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest updates on “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.


Tuesday, October 15, 2024

“A TRIPLE, QUADRUPLE, QUINTUPLE THREAT,” SAYS DIRECTOR PARKER FINN OF NAOMI SCOTT, STAR OF RATED R-18 PSYCHOLOGICAL HORROR MOVIE “SMILE 2,” IN CINEMAS OCTOBER 16


Naomi Scott as Skye Riley in Smile 2

Photo credit: Paramount Pictures


Parker Finn, director of the breakout horror hit Smile and the upcoming Smile 2, is, well, all smiles about casting Naomi Scott (Charlie’s Angels, Aladdin) to play the lead in the sequel. “Naomi is a triple, quadruple, quintuple threat,” Finn marvels. “She is amazing.”


In Smile 2, Scott plays global pop sensation Skye Riley. About to embark on a new world tour, Riley begins experiencing increasingly terrifying and inexplicable events. Overwhelmed by the escalating horrors and pressures of fame, she must confront her dark past before her life spirals out of control.


Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/Ogxm6ITnCCQ 


For the role of Skye Riley, Finn needed a lead actor who is able to personify the emotional fragility of someone grappling with the madness brought on by the curse, but additionally, have the charisma and musical ability of a global pop star. 


When the director first met Scott – for what Scott assumed was a general meet and greet – they didn’t stop talking for over three hours. “We couldn’t speak fast enough,” recalls Scott. “I had no idea that this movie had music involved but I could see that Parker was itching to tell me about it.” Once the filmmaker revealed that the movie he was working on was about a singer, Scott thought, “Well, this sounds like me!”


Skye Riley (Naomi Scott, foreground) with her backup dancers in Smile 2

Photo credit: Paramount Pictures


Scott’s ability to do it all astounded Finn and the rest of the creative team. “We had a pretty significant audition process for the role of Skye,” admits Finn. “When I met Naomi, I was familiar with her work, but she had never done anything quite like this before. She had appeared in some big movies, but the characters she had played were the polar opposites of who Skye is. When we met, it was clear she had this other side to offer that nobody had had the opportunity or the fortune to put on screen yet.”


Skye is certainly a complex, troubled character. She’s a pop star making a triumphant return to the global stage after battling substance abuse issues and deep trauma following a tragic accident. But her life is about to take an even darker turn. “We meet her and although she’s sober, she’s incredibly numb,” explains Scott. “I don’t think she’s present in her body and she hasn’t dealt with a lot of the things she needs time and space to deal with. There’s a lot bubbling under the surface. But for someone who has to deal with everything she’s dealing with – it’s interesting that when she gets the curse, it activates this survival instinct of someone who really wants to live. She wants to survive.”


Scott also relished the opportunity to explore the simultaneously precocious nature and arrested development of a person who found fame so young. “She’s not someone who was born into any kind of privilege,” Scott says. “She’s someone who has had to fight for everything. And there was a version of herself that was projected back to her from the world. I think she felt a need to run with that and therefore didn’t have the space to discover who she was. When it comes to her music and her art, she’s very self-assured and is one of those artists who knows what they want. But outside of that, there’s a stunted maturity and a stunted growth with relationships. And as she relates to herself, I don’t think she knows who she is. So that was interesting and fun to play.”


It was this ability to dial into emotion and intensity, vacillating between extremes, that particularly impressed Finn. “Naomi is so unbelievably talented,” he says. “She can do everything. There are moments where she needs to be able to play a very elegant Grace Kelly-type in her public persona, and other moments where we see her at absolute rock bottom, at her worst. And Naomi did both with aplomb.” 


Smile 2, distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures, is rated R-18 and will haunt Philippine cinemas – uncut – starting October 16. Join the conversation with the hashtag #Smile2 #SmileMovie and tag @paramountpicsph


About Smile 2:


The film is written and directed by Parker Finn. Produced by Marty Bowen, Wyck Godfrey, Isaac Klausner, Parker Finn, Robert Salerno


Starring Naomi Scott, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Peter Jacobson, Ray Nicholson, Dylan Gelula, Raúl Castillo and Kyle Gallner

Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”


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