KARATE KID LEGENDS : Three Men and A Kid Expands The Karate Universe

By : Edgar Allan E. Yu 

In a world of cinematic legacies, KARATE KID LEGENDS stands out as a remarkable continuation of a beloved franchise. The film beautifully embodies the concept of "two branches, one tree," intertwining nostalgia with novelty in a way that resonates deeply with fans old and new. The one and only Jackie Chan, at 71, continues to kick ass and bring joy to audiences—his charisma is as infectious as ever. Even though Ralph Macchio (the original Karate Kid) has limited screen time, his presence serves as a heartwarming reminder of where it all began.

Ben Wang is a great addition to the franchise. He allegedly beat out 10,000+ hopefuls to get the role. He's very likeable and has the acting chops to make it in Hollywood. Coupled with the delightful performances from Joshua Jackson and Sadie Stanley (of Kim Possible fame) as the father-daughter duo, the film's cast shines brightly. And let’s not forget Ming Na-Wen (the voice of Mulan) - her involvement adds an extra layer of quality to this already stellar ensemble.

Some critics may dismiss it as formulaic or predictable, but I found immense joy in watching this film. The fight scenes are top-notch and expertly choreographed, capturing the spirit of martial arts while delivering thrilling moments that keep you engaged with the film. Ultimately, KARATE KID LEGENDS managed to evoke happy tears - a testament to its ability to connect emotionally with viewers. If you're looking for an entertaining ride filled with action and heartwarming moments, this film should definitely be on your watchlist !  

LOOK UP! “SUPERMAN” FILMMAKERS JAMES GUNN AND PETER SAFRAN AND STARS DAVID CORENSWET AND RACHEL BROSNAHAN TO VISIT THE PHILIPPINES ON JUNE 19 AHEAD OF THE DC STUDIOS’ FILM’S SUMMER RELEASE FROM WARNER BROS. PICTURES

 

 

May 30, Manila - Superman is flying all over the world. His first stop: Manila, Philippines.  

 

In a post shared on Instagram today, James Gunn, Peter Safran, David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan announced their upcoming world tour for this summer’s epic action adventure “Superman” – and Manila is their very first stop! “‘Superman’ is coming to a city near you,” they teased in the video.  

 

Watch the announcement here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1G7NXMaaPb/  

 

The film’s writer/director/co-producer Gunn, Superman/Clark Kent himself Corenswet, Brosnahan, who plays Lois Lane, and new Lex Luthor Hoult will be joined by Gunn’s fellow DC Studios head and co-producer Peter Safran. “Superman” opens only in cinemas and IMAX July 9.  

 

During their visit, the team will meet their Filipino fans in a fan event at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on June 19.  

 

Gunn has said about “Superman”: “This project is more than just a movie to me. It’s a story about humanity, about what it means to be a hero in a world that doesn’t always make it easy to be one. I can’t wait for you to see it. The heart, the action, and the incredible performances from David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult and the entire cast.” 

 

Watch the “Superman” official trailer: https://youtu.be/KRCa-7ck7uM  

 

“Superman” is DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen. In his signature style, Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind. Gunn is producing the film with his fellow DC Studios head Safran. Joining Corenswet, Brosnahan and Hoult in the cast are Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, Isabela Merced, Skyler Gisondo, Sara Sampaio, María Gabriela de Faría, Wendell Pierce, Alan Tudyk, Pruitt Taylor Vince and Neva Howell. 

 

Check out images from the film below.  

 

#Superman 

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures 

 

Warner Bros. Pictures has another special treat for Filipino fans. To find out, remember to LOOK UP at the SM Mall of Asia globe in Pasay, or at The Victor at Bridgetowne in Pasig, at 7:00 PM tonight!  

 

“Superman” will soar into theaters and IMAX nationwide on July 9, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. 

 

 

About “Superman” 

DC Studios Presents a Troll Court Entertainment/The Safran Company Production, A James Gunn Film, “Superman,” which will be in theaters and IMAX® nationwide on July 11, 2025, and internationally beginning 9 July 2025, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. 

 

Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #SupermanPH 

 

Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures” 

 

HOPE Launches Generation HOPE with Filipino Brands to Build Classrooms for the Next Generation

 PRESS RELEASE 

Generation HOPE is a partnership between HOPE, the Department of Education, and beloved Filipino brands BDO, Carmen’s Best, Grab, Penshoppe, Aivee Clinic, SM Supermalls, and Sunnies. In the photo are (from left) Grab Philippines Country Head Ronald Roda, BDO Unibank Senior Executive Vice President and Head of the Consumer Banking Group Rolando Tanchanco, Sunnies Studios Co-founder and Head of Product Development Bea Soriano-Dee, SM Investments Corporation Vice Chairwoman Teresita Sy-Coson, Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, HOPE Founder Nanette Medved-Po, HOPE Board Member Tootsy Angara, SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, The Aivee Group Founder and President Aivee Teo, Golden ABC President and Chief Executive Officer Alice Liu, and Metro Pacific Agro Ventures Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer Jovy Hernandez.

HOPE, the Philippines’ first certified B Corp and a pioneering impact organization, launches Generation HOPE—a partnership with the country’s most beloved brands to help address the urgent need of building more public school classrooms nationwide.

This initiative brings together the country's most beloved brands, such as BDO, Carmen’s Best, Grab, Penshoppe, Aivee Clinic, SM Supermalls, and Sunnies, to enable every Filipino to vote with their peso to support nation-building through the building of public school classrooms. Together, these purpose-driven companies and their consumers share a vision to close the education gap and make sure every Filipino child has a safe, comfortable place to learn.

HOPE Founder Ms. Nanette Medved-Po and DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara place a puzzle piece on the HOPE Wall—a symbolic gesture of partnership and shared commitment to building a brighter future for public school students across the Philippines.

Launched in partnership with the Philippines’ Department of Education (DepEd), Generation HOPE was unveiled with the support of HOPE Founder Nanette Medved-Po, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, and the participation of representatives from DepEd and all the brand partners.

HOPE Founder Ms. Nanette Medved-Po speaks about the Generation HOPE campaign and its mission to bring together communities, partners, and everyday consumers to support public school education in the Philippines.

“Filipinos always come together in times of need. In a world that is increasingly divided, let's harness that power every day to support something we can all agree on: investing in the youth of this country to build a nation and ensure a brighter future,” says HOPE Founder Ms. Nanette Medved-Po.

To bring this vision to life, HOPE and its partner brands have created unique ways for Filipinos to enjoy being part of this movement.

BDO customers will soon be able to own a BDO “HOPE in Every Spend” credit card, and a portion of their spend using the credit card will automatically be donated to building public schools. More than that, they can convert their Rewards points into donations, and a portion of the annual membership fee will also be donated to HOPE.

Carmen’s Best is preparing limited-edition offerings—Hope in a Scoop and Hope in a Pint—that blend indulgence with impact. 

Grab users will have the option to use GrabRewards points to support classroom construction and make donations. 

Aivee Clinic will introduce the Aivee x HOPE collection, featuring limited edition items like bags and tags, along with specially designed Skin Bank cards for the cause.

Penshoppe is launching an exclusive line of HOPE-themed t-shirts, hoodies, caps, and bags. 

SM Supermalls will donate a portion of sales from SM-branded water bottles sold at partner food merchants. 

Sunnies will unveil a clean lens kit and specially designed Sunnies Flask for this collaboration.

Each product from the partnership offers a simple, tangible way to help build a better future through education. 

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara talks about how the Generation HOPE campaign helps address the classroom shortage in public schools, strengthening the foundation of quality education for Filipino students.

Working closely with DepEd, HOPE ensures that every classroom built directly addresses the most urgent needs of public schools across the country. 

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara highlights the importance of collaboration in this cause. He said, “Education is not just a duty, it’s a solemn responsibility we all share. When the government and the private sector unite through partnerships like Generation HOPE, we break down barriers and pave the way for every Filipino child to learn in a safe and inspiring environment. Education is how we secure the future of our nation.”

For more information, please visit https://www.generationhope.ph/ or follow HOPE on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/generationhope.ph or @generationhope.ph on Instagram for more updates. 

Get ready to fall in love in the new trailer of “Materialists,” the newest romcom from A24 and Celine Song

 

Coming soon in PH theaters

She’s the perfect matchmaker, but who is her perfect match? Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal are caught up in a love triangle in Materialists, the newest romcom from A24. The film is directed by Past Lives director Celine Song.

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/oZSFKLV_Bu8

Materialists is out to catch people’s hearts in Philippine theaters soon.

About Materialists:

Materialists is written and directed by Celine Song, and produced by David Hinojosa, Christine Vachon, Pamela Koffler, Celine Song. The film stars Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal.

Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures” 

What will the world become? Danny Boyle and Alex Garland takes us back into a virus-ravaged world in “28 Years Later”

 

In PH cinemas June 18

Director and writer duo Danny Boyle and Alex Garland reunite to explore a world ravaged by the rage virus, decades after the initial outbreak, in 28 Years Later. The film stars Jodie Comer, Aaron-Taylor Johnson, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Williams, and Ralph Fiennes as survivors fighting for ways to exist amidst the infected. Sequestering themselves in a small island, the group of survivors discover secrets and horrors far beyond the one currently sweeping across the country,

Watch the “Imagine” vignette with Danny Boyle and Alex Garland: https://youtu.be/8lo8rDf5ZGo

28 Years Later is partially set in Holy Island, with the community seeking safety from the infected by way of the causeway, the single entry point to the haven. “The island and causeway felt like a great starting point for our story,” Boyle elaborates, “because the causeway can be defended when it’s exposed by the tide. A community could thrive. Instead of a post-apocalyptic state, it looks like a town from the turn of the twentieth century. But the mainland then becomes somewhere ‘over there,’ offering both promise and threat.”

With such an isolated setting, Boyle feels like they can get the most out of the characters put inside the community. “With this kind of film we can explore characters by deciding what rules they’re setting and following. It helps define how they think, what they prioritize, and who they are.” 

For writer Garland, the type of society this infection brought forth feels like an accurate human reaction, mirroring the fact that the plague-ridden Britain is also isolated from the rest of the world. “We considered what the infection would look like,” he remembers. “What happens to the country being quarantined and essentially abandoned by the rest of the world?” 

He draws from the real world to try and answer those questions. “There’s a kind of ruthless, pragmatic, dog-eat-dog dimension to the ways things play out when a nation collapses. Broadly speaking, people not affected by the collapse ignore it and just go about their lives,” he says.

For producer Andrew Macdonald, the timing of 28 Years Later couldn’t be more perfect. “We wanted to make a film with a unique kind of epic scale. Using 28 Years Later to accomplish that has been very exciting. It felt like the perfect time for us to return to the infected,” he says.

Find out what it takes to survive as 28 Years Later arrives in Philippine cinemas on June 18. 28 Years Later is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #28YearsLater and tag @columbiapicph

Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures” 

Behind every great fighter is a great team. Meet the friends and family of Karate Kid Li Fong in “Karate Kid: Legends”

 

Arriving in PH cinemas on May 28

Martial arts fighter Li Fong (Ben Wang) has more than legends Mr. Han (Jackie Chan) and Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) to guide his training. Also behind the kung-fu prodigy is family, and friends discovered along his new journey in New York City, in the newest addition to the iconic franchise, Karate Kid: Legends.

Watch the new trailer: https://youtu.be/BtACuGrq2uA

In Karate Kid: Legends Li Fong finds a new home in New York City with his mother, Dr. Fong (Ming-Na Wen), moving across continents from Beijing. Finding himself clashing with the local karate champion, he turns to his uncle Mr. Han for guidance, who enlists original Karate Kid Daniel LaRusso. Merging both karate and kung-fu, the two trainers prepare Li Fong for the ultimate martial arts showdown, and behind Fong’s back is his new friend Mia (Sadie Stanley), retired boxer Victor (Joshua Jackson), and his SAT tutor Alan (Wyatt Oleff).

The first friendly face Li Fong encounters as he adjusts to the big city is Mia Lipani, manning her dad’s pizza shop. “The key to Mia as a character is she's grown up in New York, but she's grown up working in New York, in a pizza shop with her dad,” director Jonathan Entwistle says. “She's not an uber hipster. She's not super cool. And Sadie was the perfect person to encapsulate that. She has a little vulnerability and a lot of backbone—she's a very, very strong person.” 

Sadie Stanley, who plays Mia, talks about her character’s personality and how inherently kind she is. “Mia is a very sarcastic girl, very headstrong, and very funny,” says Stanley. “And when Li Fong and Mia first meet, he’s overwhelmed with this new reality, this new life. Mia kind of comes in and shows him that first bit of kindness, that support he needs.”

Mia’s father, Victor Lipani, is a retired boxer, who has a shared experience with Fong, both coming from fighting backgrounds. Joshua Jackson, who plays Victor, sees that similarity and uses it to create a bond between the two fighters. “I grew up in a neighborhood where there were a lot of kids, a lot of parents, a lot of people who weren't your blood relation,” he says. “It takes everybody to raise kids, right? So as a trusted older male, Victor is there for Ben, because he's dealing with quite a lot of trauma.”

Fong’s mother is played by Ming-Na Wen, who was eager to play the part as joining the Karate Kid universe is very special to her. “To be part of the Karate Kid world, being an Asian American, it’s just different,” she says. “Even though Miyagi is Japanese and I'm Chinese, we have a shared Asian-American experience. It had such an impact on my life, when I was younger watching it.”

She’s excited to see the fans react to Ben Wang, as she felt such a connection with a young actor while playing his mother. “I told Ben, ‘You’re the perfect son.’ He's so courteous and soft spoken. And yet there's like this little wicked sense of humor. I think that the fans are going to fall in love with him!”

Family, friends, and epic martial arts fighting are all in Karate Kid: Legends, arriving in Philippine cinemas on May 28. Karate Kid: Legends is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #KarateKidMovie @columbiapicph

Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures” 

Austin Butler is on the run in Darren Aronofsky’s new comedy crime thriller “Caught Stealing.” Trailer out now

 

He was just supposed to watch the cat. Now he's running for his f**king life. Darren Aronofsky is back in the helm for his new film Caught Stealing. The film stars Austin Butler, Zoë Kravitz, Matt Smith, and Benito A. Martinez Ocasio (Bad Bunny).

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/v66YfA8OjnE

Caught Stealing opens in Philippine cinemas soon.

About Caught Stealing:

Hank Thompson (Austin Butler) was a high-school baseball phenom who can’t play anymore, but everything else is going okay. He’s got a great girl (Zoë Kravitz), tends bar at a New York dive, and his favorite team is making an underdog run at the pennant.

When his punk-rock neighbor Russ (Matt Smith) asks him to take care of his cat for a few days, Hank suddenly finds himself caught in the middle of a motley crew of threatening gangsters. They all want a piece of him; the problem is he has no idea why. As Hank attempts to evade their ever-tightening grip, he’s got to use all his hustle to stay alive long enough to find out…

Caught Stealing is directed by Academy Award® nominee Darren Aronofsky, screenplay by Charlie Huston, based on his book of the same name. The film stars Austin Butler, Regina King, Zoë Kravitz, Matt Smith, Liev Schreiber, Vincent D’Onofrio, Griffin Dunne, Benito A Martínez Ocasio, and Carol Kane. 

Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning - A fitting finale to this iconic franchise

By : Edgar Allan E. Yu

The Mission Impossible film series has long been synonymous with amazing action, crazy death-defying stunts, and unpredictable plot twists. With "The Final Reckoning", the franchise takes a bold step forward while also revisiting its roots. Surprisingly, the film starts slow, featuring a dialogue-heavy first act that leans heavily on flashbacks to connect the narrative from the very first film to this concluding chapter. While some may find this pacing frustrating, it sets the stage for what’s to come.

As we transition into the second hour, fans are finally rewarded with the exhilarating fight scenes that audiences have come to expect from a Mission Impossible movie. It’s in these moments where Tom Cruise truly shines—his commitment to performing his own stunts is unparalleled and serves as a testament to his status as one of Hollywood's biggest stars.

The third hour ramps up even further and culminates in what could arguably be Tom Cruise's most dangerous stunt yet—a breathtaking sequence that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. While "The Final Reckoning" may not claim the title of best movie in the series, it undeniably provides a satisfying conclusion that ties together years of thrilling escapades.

In an industry filled with blockbuster films and fleeting stars, Tom Cruise proves once again why he is considered the last great movie star. There truly is no one else like him; his dedication elevates "The Final Reckoning" into a worthy addition to this iconic franchise. So while you may leave feeling bittersweet about saying goodbye, rest assured that this finale delivers enough excitement and heart to keep fans talking long after the credits roll—unless they decide there's more story left to tell!

#MissionImpossible

@paramountpicsph

#ParamountPictures 

Survival is a long shot. New trailer for “Jurassic World Rebirth” reveals epic and dangerous new dinosaurs

 

In PH cinemas July 2.

A place where the worst of the worst dinosaurs were left to thrive awaits a skilled team of explorers in Jurassic World Rebirth. The film stars Scarlett Johansson, Emmy and SAG nominee Jonathan Bailey and two-time Oscar® winner Mahershala Ali, as they fight to survive in the most dangerous places on Earth.

Watch the new trailer: https://youtu.be/W2u7vZMD5-k

Check out the poster: 

A new era is born as Jurassic World Rebirth opens in Philippine cinemas on July 2. Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG), and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest updates.

About Jurassic World Rebirth

A new era is born. This summer, three years after the Jurassic World trilogy concluded with each film surpassing $1 billion at the global box office, the enduring Jurassic series evolves in an ingenious new direction with Jurassic World Rebirth.

Anchored by iconic action superstar Scarlett Johansson, Emmy and SAG nominee Jonathan Bailey and two-time Oscar® winner Mahershala Ali, this action-packed new chapter sees an extraction team race to the most dangerous place on Earth, an island research facility for the original Jurassic Park, inhabited by the worst of the worst that were left behind. Also starring acclaimed international stars Rupert Friend and Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, the film is directed by dynamic visualist Gareth Edwards (Rogue One: A Star Wars Story) from a script by original Jurassic Park screenwriter David Koepp.

Five years after the events of Jurassic World Dominion, the planet’s ecology has proven largely inhospitable to dinosaurs. Those remaining exist in isolated equatorial environments with climates resembling the one in which they once thrived. The three most colossal creatures across land, sea and air within that tropical biosphere hold, in their DNA, the key to a drug that will bring miraculous life-saving benefits to humankind.

 

Jurassic World Rebirth is directed by BAFTA winner Edwards from a script by Koepp (War of the Worlds), based on characters created by Michael Crichton. The film is produced by Oscar® nominee Frank Marshall and Patrick Crowley, both longtime Jurassic franchise producers and of last summer’s blockbuster, Twisters. The film is executive produced by Steven Spielberg, Denis L. Stewart and Jim Spencer.

Have your very own pocket Toothless with the “How to Train Your Dragon” AR experience

 

In PH cinemas June 11

How to Train Your Dragon brings the Toothless experience right to your phone with the Toothless AR experience. Open the website to find the Night Terror Toothless flying high above your location, and scan the ground for the perfect spot the dragon can land on.

Try out the “How to Train Your Dragon” AR experience: https://httyd.arweb.app/1.0.7/

The Toothless AR experience lets people bring the world of How to Train Your Dragon to their own in anticipation of the movie. Fly high as How to Train Your Dragon arrives in PH cinemas on June 11. 

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

About How to Train Your Dragon:

Cast: Mason Thames, Gerard Butler, Nico Parker, Nick Frost, Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, Bronwyn James, Harry Trevaldwyn, Ruth Codd, Peter Serafinowicz, Murray McArthur

Written and directed by: Dean DeBlois

Producers: Marc Platt, Dean DeBlois, Adam Siegel

From three-time Oscar® nominee and Golden Globe winner Dean DeBlois, the creative visionary behind DreamWorks Animation’s acclaimed How to Train Your Dragon trilogy, comes a stunning live-action reimagining of the film that launched the beloved franchise. 

On the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup (Mason Thames; The Black Phone, For All Mankind) stands apart. The inventive yet overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler, reprising his voice role from the animated franchise), Hiccup defies centuries of tradition when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society. 

Inspired by Cressida Cowell’s New York Times bestselling book series, DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon franchise has captivated global audiences, earning four Academy Award® nominations and grossing more than $1.6 billion at the global box-office. Now, through cutting-edge visual effects, DeBlois transforms his beloved animated saga into a breathtaking live-action spectacle, bringing the epic adventures of Hiccup and Toothless to life with jaw-dropping realism as they discover the true meaning of friendship, courage and destiny.

Credit: “Universal Pictures”

ARE YOU READY TO GET PUMPED UP? NEW “SMURFS” TRAILER, FEATURING RIHANNA’S NEW SINGLE “FRIEND OF MINE,” OUT NOW! “SMURFS” OPENS ONLY IN CINEMAS JULY 16

 

#SmurfsMovie

Photo credit: Paramount Pictures

Adventure comes out of the blue. Watch the new trailer for Smurfs, featuring the new song “Friend of Mine” by Rihanna, who voices Smurfette in the movie. Directed by Chris Miller (Shrek the Third, Puss in Boots) and featuring an all-star cast that includes Rihanna, James Corden, Nick Offerman, Daniel Levy, Amy Sedaris, Natasha Lyonne, Sandra Oh, Octavia Spencer, Nick Kroll, Hannah Waddingham, Alex Winter, Maya Erskine, Billie Lourd, Xolo Maridueña, with Kurt Russell and John Goodman, Smurfs opens only in cinemas July 16. 

Watch the new trailer: https://youtu.be/EMOBqPpfyes?si=lH3UC_6aRYqTteFf 

Check out the new posters below! 

SmurfsMovie

Photo credit: Paramount Pictures

SmurfsMovie

Photo credit: Paramount Pictures

Synopsis:

When Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is mysteriously taken by evil wizards, Razamel and Gargamel, Smurfette (Rihanna) leads the Smurfs on a mission into the real world to save him. With the help of new friends, the Smurfs must discover what defines their destiny to save the universe. SMURFS features an all-star voice cast including Rihanna, James Corden, Nick Offerman, JP Karliak, Daniel Levy, Amy Sedaris, Natasha Lyonne, Sandra Oh, Octavia Spencer, Nick Kroll, Hannah Waddingham, Alex Winter, Maya Erskine, Billie Lourd, Xolo Maridueña, with Kurt Russell and John Goodman.

 

Paramount Animation Presents

In Association with Domain Entertainment

A Ty Ty and Jay Brown Production

“SMURFS”

  

Executive Produced by

Pete Chiappetta, Anthony Tittanegro, Andrew Lary

 

Produced by

Jay Brown, Ty Ty Smith, Robyn Rihanna Fenty, Ryan Harris, p.g.a.

Based on the Characters and Works of Peyo

 

Written by

Pam Brady

 

Directed by

Chris Miller

 

Cast:

Rihanna, James Corden, Nick Offerman, JP Karliak, Daniel Levy, Amy Sedaris, Natasha Lyonne, Sandra Oh, Octavia Spencer, Nick Kroll, Hannah Waddingham, Alex Winter, Maya Erskine, Billie Lourd, Xolo Maridueña, Marshmello, with Kurt Russell and John Goodman

CREDITS ARE NOT FINAL AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

#SmurfsMovie

@paramountpicsph

Photo and Video Credit: 

“Paramount Pictures International” 

Upcoming A24 horror film “Bring Her Back” releases haunting new trailer

 

Arriving in PH cinemas soon

Every ritual has a cost. From “Talk to Me” directors Danny and Michael Philippou comes a new horror film, “Bring Her Back.” The film centers around siblings that uncover a terrifying ritual at the secluded home of their new foster mother. “Bring Her Back” stars Billy Barratt, Sora Wong, Jonah Wren Phillips, Sally-Anne Upton, Stephen Phillips, Mischa Heywood, and Sally Hawkins.

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/Mu1-DTIBirI

Coming soon in Philippine cinemas, Bring Her Back is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures” 

LOOK UP! WATCH THE OFFICIAL TRAILER FOR JAMES GUNN’S “SUPERMAN”, STARRING DAVID CORENSWET! “SUPERMAN” OPENS ONLY IN CINEMAS JULY 9

 

#Superman

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

Your choices, your actions, that’s what makes you who you are. Watch the newly released trailer for James Gunn’s Superman,” starring David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan and Nicholas Hoult. Only In Cinemas and IMAX July 9.

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/KRCa-7ck7uM 

About “Superman”

“Superman,” DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen, is set to soar into theaters worldwide this summer from Warner Bros. Pictures. In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.

DC Studios heads Peter Safran and Gunn are producing the film, which Gunn directs from his own screenplay, based on characters from DC, Superman created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster.

The film stars David Corenswet (“Twisters,” “Hollywood”) in the dual role of Superman/Clark Kent, Rachel Brosnahan (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”) as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult (the “X-Men” movies, “Juror #2”) as Lex Luthor. The film also stars Edi Gathegi (“For All Mankind”), Anthony Carrigan (“Barry,” “Gotham”), Nathan Fillion (the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films, “The Suicide Squad”), Isabela Merced (“Alien Romulus”), Skyler Gisondo (“Licorice Pizza,” “Booksmart”), Sara Sampaio (“At Midnight”), María Gabriela de Faría (“The Moodys”), Wendell Pierce (“Selma,” “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan”), Alan Tudyk (“Andor”), Pruitt Taylor Vince (“Bird Box”) and Neva Howell (“Greedy People”).

“Superman” is executive produced by Nikolas Korda, Chantal Nong Vo and Lars Winther. Behind the camera, Gunn is joined by frequent collaborators, including director of photography Henry Braham, production designer Beth Mickle, costume designer Judianna Makovsky and composer John Murphy, along with editors Craig Alpert (“Deadpool 2,” “Blue Beetle”), Jason Ballantine (the “IT” films, “The Flash”) and William Hoy (“The Batman”).

“Superman” will be in theaters and IMAX nationwide on July 9, 2025, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.

Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #Superman

Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures” 

The legends are back. Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan team up for “Karate Kid: Legends”

 

Arriving in PH cinemas on May 28

It’s only a matter of time that legends Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan come together for the ultimate martial arts film, and time has finally come in Karate Kid: Legends. “Bringing these two legends together is beyond a producer's dream,” says producer Karen Rosenfelt. “What’s fresh and unique about this movie is that both Mr. Han and Daniel LaRusso are training a Chinese, Mandarin-speaking boy. It's a story about family and recovering what's important. And it works as a standalone if you have never seen a Karate Kid film, and it’s also a love letter to those who were there for The Karate Kid in 1984.”

Watch the new trailer: https://youtu.be/BtACuGrq2uA

In Karate Kid: Legends, kung fu prodigy Li Fong (Ben Wang) has moved across continents to New York City. Adjusting to his new home, he finds himself attracting unwanted attention from the local karate champion. Preparing for the ultimate martial arts showdown, Li’s kung fu mentor Mr. Han (Jackie Chan) enlists the help of Karate Kid Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) to merge the two unique disciplines together.

The filmmakers have taken care to honor the franchise and bring in exciting new concepts to appeal to new and longtime fans, and none has brought in more effort into Karate Kid: Legends than actor and executive producer Ralph Macchio. “I’ve been careful over the years with protecting this franchise, protecting this character,” Macchio says. “The evolution of these characters, the themes in the original movie, they still stand the test of time and win over each generation.”

Jackie Chan was eager to get back into the franchise, reprising the role of Mr. Han. “I wanted to come back to this role because the audience wants to come back,” he says. “We’ve been looking for a good story. We’ve been waiting.”

Having the martial arts icon with decades of films under his belt was a unique learning experience for Macchio. "I have so much respect for him as an artist and entertainer,” he says. “He's a legend in the field, whether it be motion pictures and martial arts or even comedy. He cares very much, and he's very involved in every take, certainly in the martial arts takes. He's like, ‘No, no, this is how it's done!’ I kind of just say, ‘Okay!’”

The feeling was mutual with Chan, who felt like he had immediate chemistry with Macchio. “Our first time meeting was the premiere of The Karate Kid ten years ago. He's an actor like me—so experienced,” says Chan. “He knows what a film needs. Immediately we just melded together. Whatever I’d say, he was already thinking.”

Watch the two legends foster the new generation of martial arts fighters as Karate Kid: Legends arrives in Philippine cinemas on May 28. Karate Kid: Legends is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #KarateKidMovie @columbiapicph

Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures” 

MISSION: ACCOMPLISHED ALDEN RICHARDS FLIES TO SEOUL FOR THE RED CARPET PREMIERE OF “MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - THE FINAL RECKONING,” MEETS TOM CRUISE

 

“Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning” opens in PH cinemas Saturday, May 17

Tom Cruise and Alden Richards at the Seoul red carpet premiere of Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning on May 8.

Photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures

Seoul, May 8, 2025 - Alden Richards was a man on a mission. 

The newly crowned Philippine Box Office King recently flew to Seoul, South Korea, to join the red carpet premiere of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, and there he met Hollywood superstar and action legend Tom Cruise. 

“Ethan meets Ethan… I have no words!” wrote Richards on Instagram where he posted a video of his meet-and-greet with Cruise. Ethan is the name of Richards’s character in the box-office breaking “Hello, Love, Goodbye” and “Hello, Love, Again” movies. In the Mission: Impossible franchise, Cruise’s character is named Ethan Hunt. 

Alden Richards shaking hands with Tom Cruise at the Seoul red carpet premiere of Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning on May 8.

Photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures

At the film’s premiere, Richards and the other guests got to watch Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning with Cruise and the rest of the cast in attendance – Hayley Atwell, Simon Pegg, Pom Klementieff, Greg Tarzan Davis, as well as with director Christopher McQuarrie. 

Check out more photos from the premiere! 

Hayley Atwell and Alden Richards at the Seoul red carpet premiere of Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning on May 8.

Photo courtesy of Alden Richards / Sam Sanciangco

Simon Pegg and Alden Richards at the Seoul red carpet premiere of Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning on May 8.

Photo courtesy of Alden Richards / Sam Sanciangco

Alden Richards was all smiles while standing beside Greg Tarzan Davis and his fellow VIP guests at the Seoul red carpet premiere of Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning on May 8.

Photo courtesy of Alden Richards / Sam Sanciangco

Tom Cruise signing autographs at the Seoul red carpet premiere of Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning on May 8.

Photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures

(From left) Pom Klementieff, director Christopher McQuarrie, Tom Cruise, Simon Pegg, Hayley Atwell and Greg Tarzan Davis at the Seoul red carpet premiere of Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning on May 8.

Photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures

(From left) Simon Pegg, Pom Klementieff, director Christopher McQuarrie, Hayley Atwell and Tom Cruise take a selfie inside the theater at the Seoul red carpet premiere of Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning on May 8.

Photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures

Tom Cruise and Christopher McQuarrie outside the cinema at the Seoul red carpet premiere of Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning on May 8.

Photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures

At the Tokyo premiere two days before, Cruise shared his excitement about the latest film in the popular Mission: Impossible series. “This film is a culmination of the last 30 years of making this franchise,” he said. “And I’m telling you, everything has led to this.”  

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/2GRPetxj1mc 

Don’t miss Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning, in cinemas starting Saturday, May 17. #MissionImpossible @paramountpicsph 

“A MINECRAFT MOVIE: BLOCK PARTY EDITION!” The Year’s BLOCKbuster Phenomenon gets Lyrical—Beginning Friday May 9, Audiences can Sing (and Meme) Along with 2025’s Biggest Hit!

Burbank, CA, May 6, 2025 – Calling all Steves! In the middle of its record-smashing run in theaters, Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures invite fans back to the theater to experience “A Minecraft Movie” together in a whole new way! You know the moments. You know the lines. You love the songs! Now it’s time to get loose, laugh out loud and belt out those lyrics like a true diamond-tier fan.

On Friday May 9, fans across the Philippines can embrace the film anew by singing—or meme-ing—along with their favorite moments from the movie. “A Minecraft Movie: Block Party Edition!” is made for those who yearn for the mines, so get ready to (re)enter the Overworld this weekend!

Tickets are on sale now in select theaters for “A Minecraft Movie: Block Party Edition!”—visit https://www.minecraftmovie.com.ph/ for schedules and tickets!

About “A Minecraft Movie”

 From Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures and starring Jason Momoa and Jack Black, “A Minecraft Movie,” directed by Jared Hess, is the first-ever big screen, live-action adaptation of Minecraft, the best-selling video game of all time.  

The film also stars Emma Myers, Danielle Brooks, Sebastian Hansen, with Jennifer Coolidge.

Welcome to the world of Minecraft, where creativity doesn’t just help you craft, it’s essential to one’s survival! Four misfits—Garrett “The Garbage Man” Garrison (Momoa), Henry (Hansen), Natalie (Myers) and Dawn (Brooks)—find themselves struggling with ordinary problems when they are suddenly pulled through a mysterious portal into the Overworld: a cubic wonderland that thrives on imagination. To get back home, they’ll have to master this world (and protect it from evil things like Piglins and Zombies, too) while embarking on a magical quest with an unexpected, expert crafter, Steve (Black). Together, their adventure will challenge all five to be bold and to reconnect with the qualities that make each of them uniquely creative…the very skills they need to thrive back in the real world. 

Hess directed from a screenplay by Chris Bowman & Hubbel Palmer and Neil Widener & Gavin James and Chris Galletta, story by Allison Schroeder and Chris Bowman & Hubbel Palmer, based on the Minecraft video game. Roy Lee, Jon Berg, Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Jason Momoa, Jill Messick, Torfi Frans Ólafsson and Vu Bui produced, and Todd Hallowell, Jay Ashenfelter, Kayleen Walters, Brian Mendoza and Jon Spaihts executive produced.

The director’s creative team behind the camera includes director of photography Enrique Chediak, production designer Grant Major, editor James Thomas, VFX supervisor Dan Lemmon and costume designer Amanda Neale. The music supervisors are Gabe Hilfer and Karyn Rachtman, and the music is by Mark Mothersbaugh.

Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures Present A Vertigo Entertainment/On The Roam/Mojang Studios Production, A Jared Hess Film, “A Minecraft Movie.” The film is be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures worldwide and by Legendary East in China.

“I want that thrill. To deliver that level of immersion and excitement.” The mythical world of Vikings and dragons comes to life in the new “How to Train Your Dragon” featurette

In PH cinemas June 11

For How to Train Your Dragon book series author Cressida Cowell, seeing the animated world based on her best-selling novels transform into live-action was nothing short of magical. Walking through the village of Berk or into the blacksmith’s forge was like stepping into a dream,” Cowell says. “The attention to detail—the wear on the tools, the weathered wood of the buildings—made everything feel alive. It was extraordinary.”

Watch the “Bringing Berk to Life” featurette: https://youtu.be/r3FYFOuke0I

Every aspect of production was meticulously crafted to translate the sense of wonder into realism, and at the head is original director Dean DeBlois, who’s excited to show everyone the Isle of Berk, and all its inhabitants. “I decided to revisit How to Train Your Dragon because it presented a remarkable opportunity—not only to direct a live-action film, but to return to a world I’ve genuinely missed,” DeBlois says. “These characters and this universe have stayed with me, and now we can bring them back with such authenticity and conviction that, when audiences enter this world, they’ll never want to leave.”

In How To Train Your Dragon, Vikings and dragons are embittered in a generations-long feud. When Hiccup, a young Viking, befriends the Night Fury Toothless, they defy centuries of tradition, and their unlikely friendship might be the key to saving the island from a looming threat.

The heart and soul of the film was rooted in the characters and the dragons, and realism was key in capturing all the emotional moments of How to Train Your Dragon. “The key is grounding the dragons in familiar animal behaviors,” DeBlois says. “By drawing inspiration from cats, dogs, horses and other animals, we’ve created creatures that feel authentic even though they’re fantasy creatures. Each dragon has a unique personality, and they live within a real, grounded world. Our goal was to make audiences believe in dragons as completely as they believed in the dinosaurs of Jurassic Park.”

In crafting this rich world, the filmmakers keep to heart what makes the film resonate with audiences. “My hope is that audiences who loved these characters in animation will discover them all over again, both with familiar warmth and surprising new depth,” DeBlois says. “We approached this adaptation with profound respect for what came before, while daring to imagine what could be. It’s a story that captures the magic of flying, the courage to question what we’re taught and the wonder of discovering something extraordinary within yourself. That’s what How to Train Your Dragon has always been about—and what this film delivers in a way audiences have never seen before.”

Soar to new heights as How to Train Your Dragon arrives in PH cinemas on June 11. Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG), and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest updates.

About How to Train Your Dragon:

Cast: Mason Thames, Gerard Butler, Nico Parker, Nick Frost, Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, Bronwyn James, Harry Trevaldwyn, Ruth Codd, Peter Serafinowicz, Murray McArthur

Written and directed by: Dean DeBlois

Producers: Marc Platt, Dean DeBlois, Adam Siegel

From three-time Oscar® nominee and Golden Globe winner Dean DeBlois, the creative visionary behind DreamWorks Animation’s acclaimed How to Train Your Dragon trilogy, comes a stunning live-action reimagining of the film that launched the beloved franchise. 

On the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup (Mason Thames; The Black Phone, For All Mankind) stands apart. The inventive yet overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler, reprising his voice role from the animated franchise), Hiccup defies centuries of tradition when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society. 

Inspired by Cressida Cowell’s New York Times bestselling book series, DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon franchise has captivated global audiences, earning four Academy Award® nominations and grossing more than $1.6 billion at the global box-office. Now, through cutting-edge visual effects, DeBlois transforms his beloved animated saga into a breathtaking live-action spectacle, bringing the epic adventures of Hiccup and Toothless to life with jaw-dropping realism as they discover the true meaning of friendship, courage and destiny.

Credit: “Universal Pictures” 

#THUNDERBOLTS* review - These B-listers and C-listers deliver a top tier movie !

By: Edgar Allan E. Yu

 I went to the cinema on opening day with low expectations, considering this film is made up of assasins and anti-heroes from previous projects. And boy was I pleasantly surprised! "Thunderbolts" is a breath of fresh air that offers something new to the genre. After 17 years and 35 films, we've had ups and downs with the Marvel movies, but the MCU has finally delivered a project to be proud of.

The film gathers a bunch of misfit anti-heroes to form a new group, tackling themes like depression, self-worth, and mental health in a way that feels both relevant and refreshing. Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova undoubtedly is the star of the show; she carries both the action-packed sequences and emotional moments with remarkable skill. David Harbour’s portrayal of the Red Guardian brings humor through his impeccable delivery while also excelling in more serious scenes—his father-daughter conversation with Yelena during their time in the void is truly heartbreaking.

Wyatt Russell continues his role as John Walker with an entertaining blend of charm and arrogance, though I wish The Ghost and Taskmaster had been utilized more effectively. Sebastian Stan delivers one of the coolest action scenes in the movie as Bucky Barnes, but perhaps the biggest surprise comes from Lewis Pullman as Bob/Sentry. His introduction stands out as one of Marvel's best ever; he’s quickly become my favorite new hero in the MCU.

"Thunderbolts" proves that Marvel can still create exceptional films even after years of storytelling fatigue. Kudos to director Jake Schreier, writers Eric Pearson and Joanna Calo, and the whole cast and crew. This movie is character-driven and grounded by emotions and relatable characters. As a huge fan of this superheroes/action genre, I'm genuinely excited for what lies ahead in the Marvel universe! If you haven’t seen it yet, make sure you catch this gem - it's one of the best !  

#MARVEL  #DISNEY

#THUNDERBOLTS*

#TheNewAvengers