FEBRUARY 2026

 

Don’t miss these titles, opening in cinemas in February 2026! 

Nobody

Photo credit: Encore Films

February 4 - Nobody (Encore Films)

Voice cast: Ziping Chen, Yang Lu, Wenliang Dong

Directed by: Shui Yu

Synopsis: 

After getting banished from the King’s Cave, a mischievous pig yao (an animal with supernatural powers considered by some as demons), together with three other yaos, goes on a journey to the west.  

#GOATmovie

Photo credit: Columbia Pictures

February 11 - GOAT (Columbia Pictures)

Cast: Caleb McLaughlin, Gabrielle Union,  Stephen Curry, Nicola Coughlan, David Harbour

Directed by: Tyree Dillihay

Trailer : https://youtu.be/-8WZgnjORoo?si=0fpovPMontg-92Ro

Official synopsis: 

From Sony Pictures Animation, the studio behind “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” comes “GOAT,” an original action-comedy set in an all-animal world. The story follows Will, a small goat with big dreams who gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot to join the pros and play roarball – a high-intensity, co-ed, full-contact sport dominated by the fastest, fiercest animals in the world. Will’s new teammates aren’t thrilled about having a little goat on their roster, but Will is determined to revolutionize the sport and prove once and for all that “smalls can ball!” 

#WutheringHeightsMovie

Photo credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

February 11 - Wuthering Heights (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Cast: Margot Robbie, Jacob Elordi

Directed by: Emerald Fennell

Trailer: https://youtu.be/EgmGInyKXdo?si=SKRVzAIKYRfq9oMm 

Official synopsis: 

A bold and original imagining of one of the greatest love stories of all time, Emerald Fennell’s “WUTHERING HEIGHTS” stars Margot Robbie as Cathy and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, whose forbidden passion for one another turns from romantic to intoxicating in an epic tale of lust, love and madness. 

Hamnet

Photo credit: Universal Pictures

February 18 - Hamnet (Universal Pictures, Ayala Malls Cinemas Exclusive)

Cast: Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal, Emily Watson

Directed by: Chloé Zhao

Trailer: https://youtu.be/xYcgQMxQwmk?si=nKbrS9Zvzc7gOztu 

Official synopsis: 

From Academy Award® winning writer/director Chloé Zhao, Hamnet tells the powerful story of love and loss that inspired the creation of Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece, “Hamlet.”  

#Crime101

Photo credit: Columbia Pictures

February 18 - Crime 101 (Columbia Pictures)

Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Jennifer Jason Leigh with Nick Nolte and Halle Berry

Directed by: Bart Layton 

Trailer: https://youtu.be/Xq1Nk8fHLrc?si=rzwPw0RtBs1SaPhg 

Official synopsis: 

In the twisty, stylish crime thriller “CRIME 101,”” Davis (Chris Hemsworth) is an elusive thief whose high-stakes heists have mystified police. He’s planning his biggest ever score — hoping it’ll be his last — when his path collides with Sharon (Halle Berry), a disillusioned insurance executive whom he’s forced to work with, and Orman (Barry Keoghan), a rival thief with far more disturbing methods than Davis’s. As the multi-milliol

#Scream7

Photo credit: Paramount Pictures

February 25 - Scream 7 (Paramount Pictures)

Cast: Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, Isabel May, Anna Camp, Joel McHale, Mckenna Grace

Directed by: Kevin Williamson

Trailer: https://youtu.be/aZaCZppEUeo?si=xKZYxxslZIHXDK8J 

Official synopsis: 

When a new Ghostface killer emerges in the quiet town where Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) has built a new life, her darkest fears are realized as her daughter (Isabel May) becomes the next target. Determined to protect her family, Sidney must face the horrors of her past to put an end to the bloodshed once and for all.

*Schedules are subject to change without prior notice.*  

Chris Pratt and Kali Reis receive a warm welcome from fans in the Mexico premiere of “Mercy”

 

Coming in PH cinemas on Jan 28

Chris Pratt takes a selfie with fans at the premiere of Mercy, localised to Sin Piedad, on January 17 at the Cinépolis Mitikah in Mexico City, MX 

Actor Chris Pratt received a warm welcome from his fans in Mexico City as he made an appearance at the red carpet premiere of his latest film, Mercy (localised as Sin Piedad), last January 17. He was joined by director Timur Bekmambetov, and co-star Kali Reis. The trio greeted the crowd, and took time to pose for selfies and interact with fans.

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/TSCQGx4IF5w

Mercy is a futuristic action thriller from director Timur Bekmambetov. Chris Pratt plays Detective Chris Raven, who is on trial for the death of his wife. Face-to-face with the AI judge Maddox, played by Rebecca Ferguson, he has ninety minutes to prove his innocence, or face the death penalty. With surveillance footage and the help of his partner Detective Jacqueline Diallo, it’s a race against time, and a face-off between the accused and the technology he once championed. 

Chris Pratt, Kali Reis, and Timur Bekmambetov attend the red carpet premiere of Mercy on January 17 in Mexico City

Chris Pratt takes a photo with fans at the Mercy premiere in Mexico City

Director Timur Bekmambetov interacts with fans at the Mercy premiere in Mexico City

Chris Pratt and Kali Reis on stage at the Mexico premiere of Mercy

Chris Pratt strikes a pose at the Mexico premiere of Mercy

Fans hold up a poster at the Mexico premiere of Mercy

Mercy brings a whole new level of thrill to Philippine theaters on January 28, 2026, including IMAX. Mercy is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #MercyMovie @columbiapicph 

RENTAL FAMILY Review: A Heartfelt Journey Through Tokyo’s Unconventional Bonds

 By: Edgar Allan E. Yu 

"RENTAL FAMILY" is a refreshingly original film that follows Philip, a struggling American actor who never seems to catch a break. Played brilliantly by Brendan Fraser, Philip’s journey takes an unexpected turn when he lands in Tokyo and finds himself hired by a Rental Family Agency—a real phenomenon in Japan—to play roles like fake friend, groom, or even father in the lives of strangers seeking connection.

Brendan Fraser is absolutely perfect as Philip. He brings charisma, relatability, and vulnerability to the role—qualities that make his character instantly endearing. Fraser’s performance here is so nuanced and moving that it could very well earn him another Oscar nomination. The supporting cast shines as well, with Shannon Gorman delivering a standout performance as schoolgirl Mia.

What makes "RENTAL FAMILY" truly special is how it serves as a love letter to Japan. The cinematography beautifully captures the vibrant streets, tranquil parks, and rich culture of Tokyo. Every frame immerses you in the city’s unique charm while exploring universal themes of loneliness and belonging.

This film isn’t just emotional—it’s heart-warming and deeply uplifting. It reminds us of the importance of human connection in unexpected places while offering an authentic glimpse into Japanese society. If you’re looking for a feel-good movie with substance and soul, "RENTAL FAMILY" is not to be missed.

Photo Credit: "Searchlight Pictures”

 #RentalFamily 

 #AyalaMallsCinemas 

@ayalamallscinemas 

Fear brought to life. The cast of “PRIMATE” on their characters in the horror-mystery, in PH cinemas January 21

 

Johnny Sequoyah (Lucy) and Ben in #PrimateMovie

In the down-and-dirty process of making his new horror movie Primate, director Johannes Roberts brought together an ensemble of dedicated performers who immersed themselves. “Our cast is amazing,” he says. “They went through so much and were so committed to their roles, which were physically and emotionally exhausting. They helped ground this world with beautifully nuanced performances, so when the horror kicks in, it feels real.” 

Primate tells the story of the Pinborough family and their pet chimpanzee Ben, who goes from a gentle pet to a deadly stalker. When Lucy Pinborough (Johnny Sequoyah) returns home to Hawaii after her freshman year in college, she is looking forward to a carefree holiday with pals Hannah (Jessica Alexander), Kate (Victoria Wyant) and Nick (Benjamin Cheng), her sister Erin (Gia Hunter), and the family’s beloved pet chimp, Ben. With her father Adam (Academy Award winner Troy Kotsur) called away on business, Lucy and the girls are looking forward to decompressing by the pool at the family home, a luxury hideaway tucked into a secluded cliffside. But their tropical vacation soon turns into a terrifying, primal tale of horror and survival.

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/Toiqr_T1y3w 

(From left) Johnny Sequoyah, Troy Kotsur and Gia Hunter play the Pinboroughs in #PrimateMove 

Lucy’s late mom was a linguistics professor trying to discover language connections between chimpanzees and humans. “She brought Ben home as a baby and trained him to communicate using sign language and a special keyboard,” Johnny Sequoyah shares how Ben came to be a member of their family. “There was an instant connection between Ben and Lucy and Erin. They have never considered Ben a pet. He is more like a little brother. When Lucy notices signs that something isn’t right with Ben, she’s concerned about him, but it would never cross her mind to be afraid of him. She is a loyal person in an impossible situation. She loves everyone in her life with all of her being, but she has to find the fierceness to protect herself and the others from Ben.” 

Oscar winner Troy Kotsur (who won the Best Supporting Actor Academy Award in 2022 for his role in CODA) plays Lucy’s dad Adam. “Adam may be deaf, but he is no victim,” says Kotsur of his efforts to save his family. (Check out the “Silence is Deadly” featurette, showing a terrifying scene without sound, to show Adam’s perspective.)

British actress Gia Hunter rounds out the Pinborough family as younger sister Erin. Erin has been lost since her mother died and her sister went to the mainland for college. “Her dad has withdrawn into his grief,” Hunter says. “She’s very lonely. Ben is her lifeline, the only remnant of her mother. She was three when they met, so they grew up together. The film is scary but it’s also quite emotional. At one point she tries to sign with him and he snaps. Imagine what it feels like when a pet you’ve loved and trusted all your life turns on you.” 

(From left) Victoria Wyant, Jessica Alexander, Gia Hunter and Johnny Sequoyah in #PrimateMovie

Victoria Wyant plays Lucy’s best friend Kate. “Kate and Lucy have grown apart a bit, which has been influenced by people like Hannah, a shiny new friend who Kate thinks is really cool,” says Wyant. “She has a nice arc of rediscovering her priorities, which is an unusual thing to find in a horror film.”

Jessica Alexander, who plays Kate’s new friend Hannah, describes her character as a bit materialistic and an attention-driven girl. “I guess you could see her as a stereotypical mean girl, but she’s a little bit more than that,” says the actress. “A part of her is a little bit annoyed that Lucy has such a cool house, because she doesn’t want to be the least cool one there. But she thinks she kind of is.” 

(From left) Benjamin Cheng, Victoria Wyant, Jessica Alexander, Johnny Sequoyah and Ben in #PrimateMovie

Kate’s brother Nick, played by Benjamin Cheng, joins the girls for a party. “Nick is a 20-year-old chilled-out guy who likes a good time,” says Cheng. “He knows that Lucy has had a crush on him forever, but he clearly has something going on with Hannah. I really liked how there was some level of romance in there. It plays on the audience’s heartstrings when they get ripped into the chaos. You want to see these people have a happy ending.” 

#PrimateMovie

Get ready to go bananas for PRIMATE when it opens in Philippine cinemas January 21, 2026. #PrimateMovie

Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”

Ayala Malls Cinemas Brings an Exclusive Big-Screen Experience with “Rental Family”, Starring Academy Award® Winner Brendan Fraser

  

Opens January 21 only at Ayala Malls Cinemas

 Photo credit: Ayala Malls Cinemas & Searchlight Pictures

 

Ayala Malls Cinemas proudly brings the cross-cultural drama-comedy Rental Family, starring Academy Award® winner Brendan Fraser, as part of its exclusive 2026 lineup. Esteemed as a go-to home of premium, exclusive films like no other, Ayala Malls Cinemas offers an exclusive cinematic experience celebrating all movie genres that inspire and entertain patrons. 

Shannon Gorman as “Mia Kawasaki” (left), Brendan Fraser as “Philip Vandarpleog” (right)

 Photo credit: Searchlight Pictures

Rental Family has touched the viewers’ hearts globally with its moving story about human connection, chosen families, and experiences of belonging, all magnified on the big screen. Now, all the way from Tokyo, it arrives only at Ayala Malls Cinemas for its theatrical run. 

HIKARI (writer and director) shares that,“I believe that cinema can make the world a better place. It allows us to view others with empathy, creates space for conversation, and see parts of ourselves we did not know existed. If we embrace it, walls fade, and humanity comes through.” This aligns with Ayala Malls’ objective to create zones where stories resonate, and audiences can find entertainment and comfort. 

Mari Yamamoto as “Aiko Nakajima” (left), Brendan Fraser as “Philip Vandarpleog” (right)

Photo credit: Searchlight Pictures

In this film, Rental Family captures that family is not always defined by blood ties, but by presence, connection, and love—and that we always have people whom we can consider family. “Family is really who we include, rather than who we’re assigned to,” Fraser says. 

With Ayala Malls Cinemas, its spaces provide a premium experience, serving not just as a go-to movie destination, but also a place where you can bond and share moments with your family, friends, and colleagues, experiencing different narratives that reflect real-life stories. 

Brendan Fraser as “Philip Vandarpleog”

Photo credit: Searchlight Pictures

Watch the trailer here:  https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CSLnnj2uM/

SYNOPSIS:

Set in modern-day Tokyo, RENTAL FAMILY follows an American actor (Brendan Fraser) who struggles to find purpose until he lands an unusual gig: working for a Japanese "rental family" agency, playing stand-in roles for strangers. As he immerses himself in his clients’ worlds, he begins to form genuine bonds that blur the lines between performance and reality. Confronting the moral complexities of his work, he rediscovers purpose, belonging, and the quiet beauty of human connection. 

Brendan Fraser as “Philip Vandarpleog” (left), Akira Emoto as “Kikuo Hasegawa”(right)

Photo credit: Searchlight Pictures

Witness Brendan Fraser as Philip Vandarpleog, taking multiple roles and experiencing the stories of his clients, exploring empathy, emotional complexities, loneliness, isolation, and humor on Ayala Malls Cinemas’ big screens that capture high quality audio projections with Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos technologies improving clarity and deliver immersive realism. With the plush seating and generous legroom, and sharper images that bring every emotion and character to life. Patrons can also enjoy treats from The Movie Snackbar, including the must-have popcorn, burgers, hotdog sandwiches, and beverages, adding to your relaxing cinematic experience.  

Takehiro Hira as “Shinji Tada” (left), Brendan Fraser as “Philip Vandarpleog” (right)

Photo credit: Searchlight Pictures

Directed and written by Miyazaki Mitsuyo aka HIKARI (best known for the highly-relevant series “Beef” in Netflix), her latest film “Rental Family” explores themes of human connection, belonging, and modern relationships through a moving and intimate narrative that resonates across cultures. Its exclusive release at Ayala Malls Cinemas gives local moviegoers the opportunity to experience the film as it was meant to be seen.

 

Unravel the roles Philip plays for his clients in “Rental Family,” exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas starting January 21. Book your tickets online at www.sureseats.com

 

For latest updates, visit Ayala Malls Cinemas’ official channels or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.  

Make 2026 Yours: Claim the Year of New Possibilities with Galaxy AI

 

It is time to make 2026 yours and step into the New You. Leave behind the endless scrolls, information overload, and distractions that weighed you down, Galaxy devices powered by Galaxy AI help you reclaim focus, creativity, and time. AI curates the content that matters most, boosts your productivity, and frees up space for what truly counts—your goals, passions, wellness, and loved ones.

Discover how Galaxy devices powered by Galaxy AI personalize your 2026, helping you step purposefully into the new you and be mindful in 2026.

Unfold Your Potential. Flip Into the New You with Galaxy Z Series

Own 2026 with style, creativity, and confidence. With Galaxy AI at its core, every fold and flip helps you start to live your most empowered year yet.

The Galaxy Z Fold7, Samsung’s lightest and thinnest Galaxy Fold yet, features a large main display that makes multitasking effortless, letting you run apps side by side like a portable workstation. The Galaxy Z Flip7, with its long-lasting 4,300mAh battery, keeps you moving all day, thoughtfully supported by personalized information from the Now Brief app, which shares essential updates such as weather and health, and the innovative Now Bar, which keeps you informed about the apps and tools you use most. Together, they let you take on every challenge with confidence, style, and flexibility.

Powered by Galaxy AI, both devices feature multimodal AI that understands what you see, say, and do. Seamlessly type or speak contextual questions to get instant answers, or use screen or camera sharing on Gemini Live to show what is in front of you and get insights in real time—a faster, smarter way to learn, create, and explore more opportunities this year.

Compact yet powerful, the Galaxy Z Flip7 FE features a 6.7-inch immersive display for streaming, creating, and connecting. With Galaxy AI guiding every interaction, it helps you flip into your most productive, creative, and confident self in 2026, turning every moment into a chance to grow, achieve, and shine. 

Elevate Every Day with the Galaxy S Series

Turn every moment into an opportunity to create, connect, and shine. With Galaxy AI at its core, the Galaxy S Series elevates how you create, communicate, and get things done, helping you start the year smarter, faster, and more inspired in your “New Year, New Me” journey.

Make every bit of 2026 glow with the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Featuring a 200 MP camera powered by Galaxy AI’s ProVisual Engine, it captures every detail, vibrant color, and rich texture, giving you a sharp and vivid glimpse of the new you. Along the way, discover more with Circle to Search with Google: just draw a circle around any object or text and get instant results in a floating view. 

More than just a powerful processor and optimized battery, the Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus help you capture vibrant photos and videos with enhanced Nightography, leveraging an advanced Spatio-Temporal Filter that analyzes pixel data across multiple frames. It separates the subject from the background, perfect for your new adventures and experiences.

There is no obstacle to improving your creativity with the Galaxy S25 FE. Featuring a refined Galaxy AI model and advanced prompt processing like Generative Edit, it allows you to remove unwanted objects and related elements, adjust angles, and naturally fill in backgrounds, resulting in polished, professional-quality photos. Just like you, it is ready to explore, conquer, and grow this year, turning every memory into a standout.

Blast Off into 2026: Elevate Your Galaxy Experience

2026 is your year to claim, create, and elevate. With Samsung Galaxy AI powering the Z and S Series, every device is your partner in making smarter choices because with Galaxy, the new you begins now.

Celebrate the new year with up to P10,000 in savings with the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Flip7, and P4,000 off the Galaxy Flip7 FE until February 28, 2026. Be in style and power with the Galaxy S25 series and enjoy up to P3,000 off until February 28, 2026 and with flexible payment options for up to 36 months, starting at P866/month for Galaxy S25 FE.

You can also get up to 30% off Galaxy Watch and Buds worth up to P12,000, perfect for staying connected, active, and fully immersed in your Galaxy-powered year and have additional discounts with trade-in until January 31, 2026.

DTI Permit Nos. FTEB -245565, 245575, 245573, and 243999 

WILL SMITH ATTENDS PREMIERE OF NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC’S “POLE TO POLE WITH WILL SMITH”, PREMIERING ON DISNEY+ FROM JANUARY 14

 

TRAILER: https://youtu.be/tfKBIR5JxpQ?si=Am64XQJ_GVG8bfaN 

PHILIPPINES (JANUARY 14, 2026) — Disney+ and National Geographic recently hosted the premiere of “Pole To Pole with Will Smith”, at London’s iconic Natural History Museum. The new seven-part docuseries which will launch on Disney+ today, January 14. Five years in the making, the series follows Will across all seven continents, taking him from the icefields of Antarctica to the jungles of the Amazon, the mountains of the Himalayas, the deserts of Africa, the islands of the Pacific and the icebergs of the Arctic.

The event was attended by Will Smith along with series contributors Polar Athlete Richard Parks, Venomologist Dr Bryan Fry, Polar Ecologist Allison Fong and Linguist Dr Mary Walworth. alongside executive producers Terence Carter and Miguel Melendez (Westbrook Studios) and Jane Root, Peter Lovering, Tom Williams and Ari Handel (Nutopia). Additional guests in attendance included broadcasters Ade Adepitan, Hannah Stitfall, Joelah Noble and Ayo Akinwolere, zoologist Megan McCubbin and National Geographic explorers such as Bertie Gregory, Lia Kajiki, Tamana Ayazi, Melanie Gouby and Anastasia Taylor Lind among others.

Following an introduction from wildlife presenter and National Geographic explorer Liz Bonnin, guests were treated to the first episode of the series, in which Will heads to the South Pole where temperatures can drop below minus 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The episode sees Will ski and trek across giant icefields, faces giant cliffs of ice in bone-chilling winds, whilst climbing to the top. Only with the support of one of the world’s best polar athletes, Richard Parks, does he succeed. The screening was followed by an insightful panel with Will Smith, Richard Parks, Bryan Fry Allison Fong, hosted by Liz Bonnin.

Inspired by his late mentor to explore life’s big questions, Will Smith throws himself into incredible challenges for 100 days: skiing to the South Pole, catching a giant anaconda, milking a venomous tarantula, climbing mountains, and diving under the ice of the North Pole. He will venture from pole to pole in the company of scientists, explorers and local experts. 

National Geographic’s “Pole To Pole with Will Smith” is now available on Disney+. 

ENCORE FILMS PHILIPPINES “The Legend of Hei II” Brings Hei To New Heights of Adventure

 

Photo credit: Encore Films Philippines

A NEW CHAPTER. A GREATER ADVENTURE UNFOLDS. The highly anticipated sequel, The Legend of Hei II, brings back the gang and Hei to greater adventures and more thrilling action. 

In this sequel, Hei continues to train his spatial and metal abilities with his master, Wuxian. Although it is still unstable, it is undeniably impressive. On their training and journey honing Hei’s skills, his powers not just evolve but also the way he learns to use his power responsibly, balance power, and compassion for both worlds; humans and spirits.  

Watch the trailer: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Cw47EZbqh/

Photo credit: Encore Films Philippines

Fueling the excitement, Nezha returns for another adventure, driving the thrill with visually stunning combat while supporting Hei. Known for his rebellious, mischievous energy, he injects fiery fight sequences and is a must-see. 

Another fan-favorite is back, Wuxian, with heartwarming moments with Hei that bring charm and fun. However, a new conflict arises…will he be able to clear his name?

With the introduction of a new character, Lù Yě, a former apprentice of Wuxian, teams up with Hei to shed light on the mystery behind the attack on the Guild and clear Wuxian’s name after he is framed for the incident.  

Photo credit: Encore Films Philippines

When Wuxian is placed under house arrest during the investigation, Lù Yě, a reliable and calculated Executor of the Spirit Guild, takes care of Hei and becomes a mentor figure to him. During their mission, it is revealed that she lost her family and became a war orphan, which led her to resent humans. Will she begin to heal from her deep-rooted trauma?

Photo credit: Encore Films Philippines

Watch out for these characters and more, as they bring deeper emotional stakes, and the high-octane action that fans have been awaiting. The Legend of Hei II is not just a continuation, but also a journey of getting to know each character better, and gradually loving the world they are trying to build for peace and goodness.  

Photo credit: Encore Films Philippines

The Legend of Hei II is said to be a healing and heartwarming film with more improved, detailed animation, and indeed a Chinese animation treat in 2026 that is more than just a viewing but an experience, like being part of their world and witnessing their growth.

Brought to you by Encore Films Philippines and distributed by Warner Bros., The Legend of Hei II unleashes its power in PH cinemas January 21, 2026. 

For latest updates, follow Encore Films Philippines on Facebook and Instagram @encorefilmsph. 

Ralph Fiennes takes on a larger role as Dr. Ian Kelson in “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple”

 

In PH cinemas Jan 14

As the world of 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple reels at the onslaught of the Rage virus, humanity is left to adapt to the dangerous environment. As the future remains bleak, survivors have found their own ways to cope and carry on. Three-time Oscar nominee Ralph Fiennes returns in the second installment of the 28 Years Later trilogy as Dr. Ian Kelson, a survivor that finds comfort in tending and honoring the dead, with his massive ossuary nickname The Bone Temple. 

“The Bone Temple reminds us that everything seems hopeless,” director Nia DaCosta says. “But at the same time, if you’re still alive, you can accomplish something meaningful with your life. For Dr. Ian Kelson, it’s building this monument to death, which inversely, is what gives him the energy to live.”

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/zjgBeVg6-Ys

Dr. Kelson also goes against the grain when dealing with the infected, his roots as a doctor making him more empathetic towards them. This is best seen in how he deals with Samson, a towering Alpha infected that leads others in killing and eating humans. “We’ve seen Samson do monstrous things,” DaCosta notes, “but Kelson sees a lot more to him.”

Fiennes explains the foray into the psyche of an infected mind in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, and what it means for the future. “The new film explores the theme of innate humanity – is it still alive in the soul, in the heart, and in the mind of an infected person?” he asks. “Are they completely corrupted? Or is there the possibility of something human still there?” 

Chi Lewis-Parry, who plays the intimidating Samson, shares how his character evolves from the first film to now. “Samson represents hope. When we met Samson, he was an apex predator committing monstrously violent acts. The mutation of the virus has had a steroidal effect on some of the infected, including Samson, turning him into a kind of super-infected.” For him, that means that there’s an awareness to the Alpha that may be a clue to how his mind works. “We understand that he is an intelligent creature and not just a mindless, rage-filled infected creature,” Lewis-Parry continues. “So, we tried to put a purpose behind the violence.”

Fiennes’ character sees this, and with it comes a bond that may change the world. “The dynamic is fueled by Kelson’s loneliness, as well as his curiosity,” DaCosta explains. “It’s almost like one couldn’t exist without the other, and it’s a very potent combination. For Samson, the morphine brings them together in a way that’s initially terrifying – we’ve seen him rip people’s heads off! As the complexity of Samson’s thoughts and cognitive processes becomes apparent, Kelson recognizes this, leading to the development of a relationship between them.”

Step into the world ravaged by Rage as 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple arrives in Philippine cinemas on January 14. 

Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

Silence is deadly. Oscar winner Troy Kotsur brings us into his world without sound in a new featurette for horror-mystery “PRIMATE,” in cinemas January 21

 

“When I was growing up, I would watch horror movies and you’d notice that so many people will react from a sound that they hear, and so I was on a journey into your world,” says Troy Kotsur, the first male deaf actor to win the Academy Award, for his performance in the 2021 film CODA. 

In Primate, Kotsur plays Adam, patriarch of the Pinborough family, which includes a chimpanzee named Ben. Ben was brought home by Adam’s late wife, a linguistics professor who used to work with Ben. While Adam is away on a short work trip, his daughters and their friends’ tropical vacation turns into a terrifying, primal tale of horror and survival. Primate is directed by Johannes Roberts and also stars Johnny Sequoyah, Jessica Alexander and Victoria Wyant. 

Watch the “Silence is Deadly” featurette: http://y2u.be/X1pZqaVHa2c  

Get ready to go bananas for PRIMATE when it opens in Philippine cinemas January 21, 2026. #PrimateMovie

About Primate:

Paramount Pictures Presents

In Association with Domain Entertainment

An 18Hz Production

“PRIMATE”

SYNOPSIS: 

In PRIMATE, a group of friends’ tropical vacation turns into a terrifying, primal tale of horror and survival.

EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY

 Vicki Dee Rock, Nathan Samdahl, Johannes Roberts, Pete Chiappetta, Anthony

Tittanegro, Andrew Lary

 

PRODUCED BY

Walter Hamada, p.g.a., John Hodges, p.g.a., Bradley Pilz

 

WRITTEN BY

Johannes Roberts & Ernest Riera

 

DIRECTED BY

Johannes Roberts

 

STARRING

Johnny Sequoyah, Jessica Alexander, and Troy Kotsur, Victoria Wyant, Gia Hunter,

Benjamin Cheng, Charlie Mann, Tienne Simon

  

#PrimateMovie

@paramountpicsph

Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International” 

[CES 2026] A Care Companion for Family Health and Safety

The Care Companion zone concluded Samsung’s “Your Companion to AI Living” vision at The First Look 2026 — highlighting technology’s most human purpose, care.

For decades, care has been reactive, addressing problems only after they arise. Samsung aims to change that by embedding AI across its product ecosystem to support safety, health and security. The goal is to shift care from response to anticipation — an approach Samsung calls Intelligent Care.

Samsung Newsroom visited the final area of the exhibition to see how Galaxy devices serve as the hub for healthier, safer everyday living.

View of the Care Companion zone

Upon entering, visitors encountered the futuristic Galaxy Z TriFold showcased on a Transparent Micro LED display. 

Galaxy Z TriFold

Video Link: https://youtu.be/Y48W42RnTaY

Personalized Health Management: Optimizing Daily Routines

In the Self Care – Good Sleep section, visitors learned how wearables such as Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Ring track sleep conditions while working in concert with lighting and connected home appliances including the Bespoke AI WindFree Pro air conditioner and Infinite AI Air Purifier. Without user input, the connected home automatically optimizes temperature and airflow to support a more comfortable sleep environment.

Galaxy devices connect with TVs and home appliances to create optimal sleep conditions. 

Tristen Menzies

“I love being able to take AI out of my pocket and use it right away,” said Tristen Menzies, a digital content creator from Guam. “What I appreciate about Samsung is that it creates AI that complements your life, rather than interferes. I think that’s the direction we should be heading.”

Family Health Care: Supporting Everyone From Older Adults to Pets

Early Detection and Prevention of Cognitive Health

Healthcare is expanding beyond individual management to encompass every member of the family. Samsung introduced features designed to help detect dementia early in older adults at the Family Care – Brain Health section. By analyzing lifestyle patterns through mobile and wearable devices, the system can identify early signs of cognitive decline and send alerts to designated caregivers, enabling timely intervention.

More important, however, is preventing cognitive decline before it occurs. To that end, Samsung analyzes a wide range of everyday indicators—including speech, typing, walking, sleep and gait—to detect subtle changes in cognitive function. The system also recommends brain-training programs to help older adults reduce concerns about cognitive decline and maintain healthier, more independent lives.

Demonstration of Samsung Health’s cognitive decline detection feature

AI-Enabled Pet Health Monitoring

Samsung’s AI extends to pets as well. The SmartThings Pet Care service helps identify common health conditions such as dental disease, patellar luxation, and cataracts. Using AI, SmartThings Pet Care analyzes photos of household animals with on-screen guidance to help identify potential health concerns.

SmartThings Pet Care checks for cataracts in a pet.

AI Home Monitoring: Smart Detection for a Safer Home

When users are away from home, AI-powered home care monitoring offers greater peace of mind.  

Vision AI analyzes video and audio collected from connected devices such as refrigerators equipped with cameras and TVs, detecting potentially dangerous situations and sending alerts directly to the user’s smartphone.

When no one is home, TVs and refrigerators with built-in cameras can display summaries of moments flagged as potentially risky. Furthermore, AI home monitoring can compare detected faces with images stored in the user’s photo gallery to determine whether the person is a known contact or a stranger.

With AI home monitoring, users can feel more at ease even when away from home.

Alert activity demonstration 

Dr. Rob Longwell

“What I like about Samsung’s AI ecosystem is how everything is connected,” said Dr. Rob Longwell, a member of the media from Beverly Hills, CA. “Home security and safety are especially important to me, and I was impressed by how devices work together to help protect the home.”

Expanded Safety Services: Greater Protection Through Partnerships

The zone concluded with a look at how Samsung’s AI technology works seamlessly with a wide range of partner products, including sensors, cameras and smart door locks, to support safer living.

Wall with compatible devices from partners

With the Care Companion—designed to help everyone live with greater peace of mind, safety and well-being—Samsung concludes the “Your Companion to AI Living” journey presented at The First Look 2026.

Looking ahead, Samsung plans to continue expanding its AI ecosystem to create experiences that users can trust and rely on with confidence.

Get a chance to win a Samsung AI Appliance worth up to ₱52,999!

Sign- up now at https://www.samsung.com/ph/handraiserces/

Terms and conditions apply.

Promo runs from January 2 - 22, 2026 only.

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-245240 Series of 2025 

An intense thriller with near-reality science fiction awaits in “Mercy,” starring Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson

 

Coming in PH cinemas on Jan 28

Science fiction takes inspiration from real life dystopia in Mercy, an action thriller from Unfriended (2015), and Searching (2018) director Timhur Bekmambetov. Mercy utilizes his groundbreaking Screenlife style and format, combined with cutting edge visual technology. 

“Mercy is a very intense, thrilling mystery, a new approach to the Screenlife language with a very entertaining, serious, impactful subject,” says Bekmambetov. “I loved this story not just as a Screenlife movie, but as a traditional movie. It involves how we behave and interact with technology.”

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/TSCQGx4IF5w

Mercy takes place in the not too distant year of 2029, where Detective Chris Raven (Chris Pratt, the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, Avengers: Endgame) is accused of murdering his wife, Nicole (Anabelle Wallis, Peaky Blinders TV series). The judge presiding over his case is an artificial intelligence system he once championed, personified as Judge Maddox (Rebecca Ferguson, Dune, the Mission Impossible franchise). Tasked with his own defense, he must prove himself innocent to Maddox, or else face execution.

Chris Pratt was immediately hooked as soon as he received the script for Mercy, and Bekmambetov’s distinct style. “I thought it was an inventive mystery story unlike anything I’d read before, which is saying a lot because I read everything! But this really caught my attention,” Pratt says. “MERCY is a ‘multi-genre’ film — it’s a courtroom drama, a thriller, a mystery, and an action film,” Pratt adds. “And it utilizes Screenlife, a genre curated by Timur. MERCY really takes all of that to the next level.”

Rebecca Ferguson feels as though Mercy takes a magnifying glass into the real world problems that can arise with the increasing reliance on technology. “Mercy highlights the shortcomings in a world where Artificial Intelligence is growing but is still very limited when it comes to actually revealing the truth,” she says. “The problem is that we expect accuracy, and more and more we need to question what the online world is telling us.” Ferguson wishes that it imparts insight onto audiences. “I hope that people do question AI, and humans’ relationship to AI,” says Ferguson. “Artificial Intelligence is a fantastic tool, but it should always be just that — a tool to aid humans, not an alternative to humans. This film highlights, in a narrative sense, some of the ways that relying on AI could go very wrong.”

Producer Robert Amidon is excited for the latest Bekmambetov film with his signature Screenlife style. “Timur Bekmambetov has the biggest passion for the digital world and where it is today,” adds Amidon. “The concept in Mercy aligned with his previous films Missing, Searching, and Profile. And like those, this story that was set in 2029 was grounded in reality while going into different genres.”

Everything is on the line as Mercy is coming to Philippine theaters on January 28, 2026, including IMAX and 3D. Mercy is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #MercyMovie @columbiapicph 

ENTER THE DIGITAL FRONTIER. TRON: ARES STREAMS EXCLUSIVELY ON DISNEY+ JANUARY 7

 

TRAILER: https://youtu.be/DrfVlmYCeU0?si=aNbFXNBpfbgau76_

PHILIPPINES (JANUARY 6, 2025) — The new year ushers in a return to the Grid when the epic sci-fi action-adventure Tron: Ares begins streaming January 7 on Disney+. Directed by Joachim Rønning, the newest chapter in the TRON saga invites fans to experience a striking new world and high-velocity spectacle right from home. The edge-of-your-seat action thrusts audiences into a high-stakes clash between artificial intelligence and humanity, powered by cutting-edge visual effects and an electrifying original score by Nine Inch Nails.

 

Expanding upon the original Tron and Tron: Legacy film series, Tron: Ares is “a fast-paced, thrilling movie that launches at full throttle and never slows down,” (Jonathan Sim, Coming Soon). Critics also recognize that “Rønning and cinematographer Jeff Cronenweth’s canvas pops with color, contrast and motion, while Nine Inch Nails’ techno-forward score literally rattles your seat” (Joseph Morona, Cleveland.com).

 

Tron: Ares will be the latest film available in IMAX Enhanced on Disney+, featuring IMAX’s exclusive expanded aspect ratio for all Disney+ subscribers, ensuring that the filmmakers’ creative intent is fully preserved for a more immersive viewing experience at home. Subscribers with certified TVs and AV receivers can also experience IMAX Enhanced sound powered by DTS, featuring the full dynamic range of the original cinematic mix. 

Before stepping into the future, return to where the journey began. Tron and Tron: Legacy are now streaming on Disney+, inviting viewers to experience the evolution of the Grid and the legacy that drives directly in Tron: Ares.

Film Synopsis

Get ready for the electrifying action and adventure of Tron: Ares. When a highly sophisticated Program named Ares is sent from the digital world into the real world on a dangerous mission, it marks humankind’s first encounter with AI beings. (Warning: Some flashing-lights scenes in this film may affect photosensitive viewers.) 

ANACONDA Film Review - From Thriller To Outright Comedy, It's Freaking Hilarious !

By: Edgar Allan E. Yu

Photo credit: Columbia Pictures 

Is it a sequel, a remake, or a reboot? However else you call it, it's the latest Anaconda movie in cinemas—and it's freaking hilarious! This new installment takes everything we love about outrageous creature features and cranks up the comedy to eleven. With Paul Rudd and Jack Black leading the cast, their on-screen chemistry is undeniable; they bounce off each other with quick wit and perfect timing. Add in Steve Zhan’s quirky humor, Thandiwe Newton’s sharp performance, and Daniela Melchor’s irresistible energy, and you’ve got a film crew that feels both authentic and endlessly entertaining. 

Photo credit: Columbia Pictures 

The premise alone promises laughs: this mismatched team heads deep into the Amazon rainforest to shoot their movie—only for their behind-the-scenes antics to be upstaged by the arrival of an actual giant Anaconda. Suddenly, filmmaking becomes a fight for survival that’s as sidesplitting as it is suspenseful. Whether you’re an old fan wondering “Is it a sequel?” or just looking for your next big-screen laugh, ANACONDA delivers pure entertainment with every twist and turn. Don’t miss out on what might just be the funniest adventure of the year ! Stay for that cameo near the end.  

#AnacondaMovie

@columbiapicph