Author: ClickTheCity Entertainment

Cinemalaya 22 Opens and Closes With Powerful Portraits of Filipino Life

The 22nd Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival will open and close with two internationally recognized films that capture the complexity of Filipino lives.

Leading the festival is Enjoy Your Stay, a moving drama about a Filipina migrant worker determined to reunite with her daughter. Bringing the celebration to a close is Filipiñana, a gripping coming-of-age story set inside an exclusive country club where privilege, violence, and buried truths quietly collide.

Though different in tone and setting, both films place Filipino women at the heart of stories shaped by sacrifice, survival, and difficult choices.

Enjoy Your Stay Opens Cinemalaya 22

Directed by Dominik Locher and Honee Alipio, Enjoy Your Stay follows Luz, a Filipina who has spent years working as an undocumented cleaner in Switzerland.

Alongside her friend Aileen and other Filipina migrant workers, Luz lives under the constant threat of being discovered and deported. Every day is uncertain, yet she continues to endure the risks in the hope of securing a better future for her daughter in the Philippines.

Her life takes a dramatic turn when she sees her former husband appear on a Filipino reality television program with their six-year-old child.

Overwhelmed by fear and desperation, Luz makes a promise on live television. She vows to return home in time for her daughter’s birthday.

Keeping that promise, however, proves far more difficult than she expected.

With little savings and mounting debt, Luz is forced to search for ways to earn enough money before time runs out. As the pressure grows, she begins making choices that test her loyalty to her community and push her beyond her own moral limits.

At its core, Enjoy Your Stay examines the emotional and financial cost of migration. It also reflects the painful realities faced by overseas Filipino workers who leave their families behind in pursuit of stability.

Mercedes Cabral leads the cast as Luz. She is joined by Anna Luna, Hasmine Killip, Irma Adlawan, Donna Cariaga, and Madeleine Nicolas.

Co-produced by Close Up Films and JBA Production, the film had its world premiere in the Panorama section of the 76th Berlin International Film Festival in Germany on February 14, 2026.

The film will be shown free to the public on August 6, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at Red Carpet Cinemas 1 and 2 in Shangri-La Plaza.

Filipiñana Brings the Festival to a Close

Cinemalaya 22 will conclude with Filipiñana, directed by Rafael Manuel.

The film follows Isabel, played by Jorrybell Agoto, a teenage employee working at an exclusive country club. While navigating the routines of her job, she becomes fascinated by the club’s president, Dr. Palanca, portrayed by Teroy Guzman.

What begins as a seemingly innocent attraction soon leads Isabel toward troubling discoveries.

Behind the country club’s polished image and carefully maintained grounds lies a history shaped by control, violence, and silence. As Isabel uncovers more about the people around her, she begins to understand that her connection to Dr. Palanca is tied to something far darker than admiration.

The film explores how institutions can hide abuse beneath respectability. It also examines class, authority, exploitation, and the ways power can influence memory and truth.

Filipiñana expands on Manuel’s acclaimed 2020 short film of the same title. The feature-length version had its world premiere in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival in January.

As the official closing film of Cinemalaya 22, Filipiñana will be screened on August 16, 2026, at 8:30 p.m. at Red Carpet Cinemas 1 and 2 in Shangri-La Plaza.

Regular tickets are priced at ₱350, while student tickets are available for ₱250.

Stories That Mirror Filipino Realities

This year’s festival carries the theme “Cinemalaya 22: Reel Reflections.”

Through Enjoy Your Stay and Filipiñana, the festival turns its attention to stories that reflect the lived experiences of Filipino women and the communities that shape them.

Luz’s journey reveals the sacrifices, isolation, and moral struggles that often come with migrant labor. Isabel’s story, meanwhile, exposes the hidden tensions between privilege and power inside a seemingly perfect institution.

Both films challenge audiences to look beyond appearances.

More importantly, they show how personal struggles are often connected to larger social realities, including poverty, migration, class inequality, gender, authority, and survival.

Screening and Ticket Details

Tickets for the opening and closing film screenings will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis two hours before each scheduled screening.

For more information, visit the Cultural Center of the Philippines website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph and the Cinemalaya website at www.cinemalaya.org.

Festival updates are also available through the official CCP and Cinemalaya pages on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

July 22, 2026
Peter Parker Reconnects With MJ and Ned in the Final ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Trailer

Peter Parker faces one of his most emotional battles yet as MJ and Ned return to New York in the final trailer for “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” arriving in Philippine cinemas on July 29.

Four years have passed since Peter, played by Tom Holland, made the ultimate sacrifice to save the world. To protect everyone, he erased himself from the memories of every person who knew him, including the two people closest to him, MJ, played by Zendaya, and Ned, played by Jacob Batalon.

While Peter remained in New York and devoted himself to fighting crime full-time as Spider-Man, MJ and Ned attended the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology. After enjoying what they describe as the best years of their lives, the pair have graduated and moved back to New York.

Peter tries not to look at their social media posts too often. Still, with their return approaching, he cannot help checking in on them from afar.

“Peter has been telling himself that he’s let MJ and Ned go,” producer Amy Pascal says, “but he never has, and he’s checking on them all the time.”

Watch the Final Trailer

Watch the final trailer for “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” here:

A New Chapter for MJ and Ned

One of the filmmakers’ key goals was to move MJ and Ned forward in time. The story recognizes that several years have passed, with an opening montage following the characters through college and into early adulthood.

They remain the familiar personalities audiences have grown to love, but their experiences have clearly changed them. No longer teenagers navigating high school, MJ and Ned are now young adults shaped by independence, responsibility, and personal growth.

“This is a new chapter in MJ’s and Ned’s lives,” says Zendaya. “When they move back to New York, they must figure out how to become adults. That idea resonated with me because I remember when I was trying to figure out who I wanted to be in the world. It’s a pivotal time for MJ and Ned, as it is for most people.”

Batalon says it is difficult for Peter to accept that his former friends are entering adulthood without him.

“They’ve been inseparable all through school,” Batalon says. “Peter is undergoing a major transformation and MJ and Ned are oblivious; they’re living their lives with no recollection of the guy who had been with them every step of the way.”

According to Batalon, Peter is forced to fight back his emotions while deciding how to move forward alone.

“Peter is fighting back the emotions of seeing Ned and MJ, and he’s trying to decide how to move forward, alone. Most of all, Peter doesn’t want to re-engage with his friends because that’s part of his evolution as Spider-Man. Still, he must keep them safe, even if it’s from afar.”

Peter Parker on the Outside Looking In

Unable to reconnect with the people he loves, Peter buries himself in his responsibilities as Spider-Man.

“Peter is miserable about no longer being able to connect with them,” Holland says.

Living with MJ and Ned while figuring out adulthood together had always been one of Peter’s dreams. Now, he can only watch as they build new lives without him.

“But now he’s on the outside, looking in, and it’s torturous for Peter,” says director Destin Daniel Cretton. “He’s clearly yearning to be part of this but knows how dangerous it would be if he tried to trigger their memories.”

After all, no one can be completely safe while knowing Spider-Man’s true identity, especially MJ and Ned.

Can an Emotional Connection Survive Lost Memories?

The consequences of MJ and Ned’s memory loss became one of the biggest creative questions the filmmakers had to address.

“What happens if your memory is erased about someone you love deeply? That can happen in real life, of course, when a loved one suffers from dementia or Alzheimer’s.”

He explains that certain sounds, feelings, or experiences can sometimes awaken a sense of connection, even when specific memories are gone.

“But there are also so many instances of people with these kinds of memory loss who do experience something – it can be sparked by a piece of music or an unspecified feeling – that tells us that some kind of connection is still there. All this made the story’s more fantastical ideas feel relatable.”

Zendaya also believes that MJ and Ned may sense an unexplained absence in their lives.

“My suspicion is that MJ and Ned have a feeling that something in their lives is missing,” she shares. “I don’t think MJ knows exactly what’s missing, but she senses that things are not quite right.”

Growing Up Means Growing Apart

The difficult transitions Peter, MJ, and Ned face as they move from student life into adulthood may also resonate with audiences.

“Relationships change when you leave high school or college and your school group,” says producer Kevin Feige. “For Peter Parker, it was a seismic change because everyone, including his closest friends, have forgotten him. It’s a journey for Peter that’s rich in emotion and pathos.”

Alongside Holland, Zendaya, and Batalon, “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” also stars Sadie Sink, Jon Bernthal, Michael Mando, Tramell Tillman, and Mark Ruffalo.

“Spider-Man: Brand New Day” opens in Philippine cinemas on July 29. Tickets are available now. Distributed locally by Columbia Pictures PH.

July 22, 2026
FX’s “The Shards” Unveils Gripping Trailer Ahead of August 6 Disney+ PH Premiere

Disney+ has released the official trailer for FX’s “The Shards,” offering viewers a striking first look at the seductive new drama from executive producer Ryan Murphy.

Adapted from the acclaimed bestselling novel by Bret Easton Ellis, the series will debut with its first two episodes on Thursday, August 6, at 9:00 a.m., exclusively on Disney+ Philippines.

Privilege, Obsession, and Fear Collide

Set in the sun-soaked yet sinister world of 1980s Los Angeles, “The Shards” follows a group of wealthy high school seniors attending an elite preparatory school.

On the surface, their lives appear effortless. They move through a world filled with lavish parties, beauty, status, and excess. Beneath the glamour, however, jealousy, desire, and obsession begin to expose the cracks in their seemingly perfect lives.

As the teenagers struggle with identity, relationships, and the pressures of adolescence, a far more terrifying threat begins to close in.

A Mysterious Arrival Changes Everything

At the center of the story is Bret, played by Igby Rigney, an observant teenager with dreams of becoming a writer.

Bret carefully studies the people and events around him, but his grip on reality begins to weaken after the arrival of Robert Mallory, portrayed by Homer Gere.

Charismatic, secretive, and impossible to ignore, Robert transfers to the school shortly before senior year. His appearance coincides with the growing panic surrounding The Trawler, a serial killer targeting teenagers throughout Los Angeles.

With each new incident, Bret becomes increasingly suspicious of Robert. What begins as curiosity soon develops into a consuming fixation, blurring the line between instinct, paranoia, and dangerous obsession.

A Glamorous Group Pulled into Darkness

Bret is surrounded by an affluent and tightly connected social circle made up of Susan Reynolds, played by Kaia Gerber; Debbie Schaffer, played by Hayes Warner; and Thom Wright, played by Graham Campbell.

Together, they move through a polished world of privilege, temptation, and hidden tensions. Their friendships are tested as fear spreads across the city and the darker side of their relationships comes into focus.

The promise of their youth also stands in sharp contrast to the troubled adults around them.

Wes Bentley stars as Terry Schaffer, while Evan Rachel Wood plays Liz Schaffer. Jordan Roth joins the cast as Steven Reinhardt.

As secrets build and suspicions intensify, the characters are drawn further into a world where beauty can conceal danger and desire can have deadly consequences.

Ryan Murphy and Bret Easton Ellis Join Creative Forces

“The Shards” unites the distinctive storytelling styles of Ryan Murphy and Bret Easton Ellis, two creators known for exploring provocative characters, complicated relationships, and the darker corners of American culture.

The series is executive produced by Murphy, Nina Jacobson, Brad Simpson, Bret Easton Ellis, Eric Kovtun, Scott Robertson, Nissa Diederich, Tanase Popa, Nick Hall, Michael Uppendahl, Max Winkler, Kathleen McCaffrey, and Brian Young.

“The Shards” is produced by 20th Television.

FX’s “The Shards” premieres with two episodes on Thursday, August 6, at 9:00 a.m., exclusively on Disney+ Philippines.

July 21, 2026
Netflix Philippines Unveils ‘Ganito, Ganyan, Ganoon’ Key Art Starring Jodi Sta. Maria and Agot Isidro

Netflix Philippines has unveiled the official key art for Ganito, Ganyan, Ganoon, its biggest and most chaotic family dramedy of the year.

Starring acclaimed actresses Jodi Sta. Maria and Agot Isidro, the upcoming film centers on an estranged mother and daughter whose complicated reunion brings long-buried wounds, family secrets, and unresolved emotions back to the surface.

A Picture-Perfect Family Moment With a Hidden Story

The newly released key art features a stunning beach portrait of a typical extended Filipino family. At first glance, the image appears warm, joyful, and picture-perfect.

Look a little closer, however, and the family gathering seems to suggest that something deeper is hiding beneath the smiles.

That contrast captures the heart of Ganito, Ganyan, Ganoon, a story about the love, tension, humor, and emotional baggage that can exist within one family at the same time.

Jodi Sta. Maria Plays a Woman Forced to Face Her Past

Directed by Cholo H. Laurel, the film follows Joanne, or Jo, played by Sta. Maria. Jo is a successful television writer standing on the edge of a career-defining opportunity.

Her plans are disrupted by the unexpected return of her mother, forcing Jo to confront painful memories from her childhood. These buried wounds have shaped her choices, relationships, and identity well into adulthood.

“She’s accomplished, she’s intelligent, she’s very strong, but the question is ‘why’?” Sta. Maria said of her character. “What motivated this character to be the way she is?”

Agot Isidro Brings a Mysterious Mother to Life

Opposite Sta. Maria is Isidro as Paz, a formidable woman carrying secrets of her own.

Paz’s return to the Philippines sets the story in motion, but the decades she spent living in New York remain wrapped in mystery. As the film unfolds, Jo begins piecing together the truth about her mother’s past and the choices that changed their family forever.

Complex, unpredictable, and emotionally guarded, Paz becomes both the source of Jo’s questions and the key to finally answering them.

A Filipino Family Story Filled With Love and Dysfunction

While Ganito, Ganyan, Ganoon embraces the emotional pull of a familiar Filipino family narrative, it also highlights the distinct dysfunctions that make every family experience unique.

These are the misunderstandings that divide relatives, the secrets that linger for years, and the shared history that continues to pull people back together.

Speaking at the Next on Netflix Philippines event in February, Laurel praised Netflix for giving the production room to honor its creative vision.

“They were willing to give it the creative freedom that we needed to be able to stay faithful to the vision,” the director said.

A Powerful Ensemble Cast

Sta. Maria and Isidro are joined by a compelling mix of familiar and emerging talents.

The ensemble cast includes Gabriel Lazaro, Gardo Versoza, Ruby Ruiz, RK Bagatsing, Mitch Valdez, and Angel Aquino.

Together, they bring to life a family shaped by profound love, tentative resentments, hilarious chaos, and lingering regrets.

Funny, painful, and deeply relatable, Ganito, Ganyan, Ganoon promises an intimate portrait of a quintessential Filipino family, where affection and conflict often occupy the same room.

Ganito, Ganyan, Ganoon premieres globally on August 13, only on Netflix.

July 17, 2026
Ayala Malls Cinemas Unlocks a World of Secrets With “Tuner,” Exclusively Showing July 22

Every sound carries a clue in “Tuner,” a riveting new crime thriller arriving exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas on July 22.

Headlined by Academy Award winner Dustin Hoffman and rising star Leo Woodall, the film has already earned strong praise from critics and audiences. “Tuner” currently holds an impressive 94% Tomatometer score and 94% Popcornmeter score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Woodall is best known for his memorable performances in HBO’s “The White Lotus” and Netflix’s “One Day.” This time, he steps into a darker and more dangerous story filled with romance, crime, and high-stakes suspense.

An Extraordinary Gift Becomes a Dangerous Tool

Directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Daniel Roher in his narrative feature debut, “Tuner” follows Niki, a talented piano tuner with an exceptional sense of hearing.

His rare ability soon attracts the attention of criminals who realize that his gift can be used to crack safes. What begins as an unusual opportunity quickly pulls Niki into a threatening world where one wrong move could cost him everything.

Trying to escape the mistakes of his past, Niki forms an unexpected connection with Ruthie, a music student who gives him hope for a better life. However, leaving the criminal world behind proves far more difficult than he imagined.

As the pressure intensifies, Niki must decide how far he is willing to go to protect his future.

Blending emotional drama, compelling romance, and pulse-pounding heist action, “Tuner” also stars Havana Rose Liu, Tovah Feldshuh, Lior Raz, Jean Reno, and Dustin Hoffman.

Hear Every Detail in a Premium Cinema Setting

“Tuner” is best experienced on the big screen, where every whisper, footstep, piano note, and heartbeat heightens the tension.

Ayala Malls Cinemas brings the film to life through immersive visuals and premium audio technology. With Dolby Audio and Dolby Atmos, audiences can enjoy rich, multidimensional sound that makes every scene feel more immediate and intense.

The film will screen exclusively at the following Ayala Malls Cinemas locations:

Glorietta, Greenbelt, TriNoma, Manila Bay, Fairview Terraces, Central Bloc in Cebu, Centrio in Cagayan de Oro, and Capitol Central in Bacolod.

Catch the Early Access Screenings on July 18

Moviegoers can be among the first to experience “Tuner” during its exclusive Early Access Screenings on July 18 at 6:30 PM.

The special screenings will take place at Glorietta, Greenbelt, TriNoma, and Manila Bay, giving audiences an exciting first look before the film officially opens on July 22.

Every note tells a story. Every sound reveals a secret.

Follow Ayala Malls Cinemas on Facebook and Instagram for updates on exclusive screenings, upcoming films, and more exciting cinema experiences.

July 17, 2026
HBO Original “Fired Up!” Starring Eric Chou Premieres Exclusively on HBO Max on July 31

HBO Original Fired Up!, starring Eric Chou and Angela Yuen, will premiere exclusively on HBO Max on Friday, July 31. New episodes will arrive every Friday.

Adding even more excitement to the series, fans can look forward to “Shells,” the closing theme song written and performed by Eric Chou. The original soundtrack will also feature fresh collaborations, including “After Everything” by Pets Tseng and “Dream Light” by Yo Lee.

A Powerful Story of Family, Friendship, and Justice

Adapted from the popular Kakao Webtoon comic Itaewon Class, created by Gwangjin, Fired Up! is a highly anticipated 12-episode coming-of-age drama produced by DaMou Entertainment in Taiwan.

The series follows Chou Lu-yung, played by Eric Chou, as he sets out to uncover the truth behind his father’s tragic death. At the same time, he must fight to protect his family’s beloved eatery, Jin Lai Hao.

Standing beside him is a loyal group of friends who help him face powerful enemies, personal struggles, and difficult choices. Together, they pursue justice while holding on to their dreams and the legacy that matters most.

Eric Chou Takes on His First Drama Lead Role

Mandopop sensation Eric Chou makes an exciting career milestone in Fired Up!, taking on his first lead role in a drama series as Chou Lu-yung.

He is joined by an impressive ensemble cast that includes Angela Yuen as Chao Yi-hsuan, Shao Yu-wei as Wu Hsiu-wen, Wang Shih-hsien as Chang Ta-chin, Akira Huang as Lin Chin-nan, Cosmos Lin as Ma Yu-li, Sean Lin as Chang Chien-yuan, and Ben Wu as Chang Chien-wu.

With its compelling characters, emotional storytelling, and inspiring underdog journey, the series promises a gripping viewing experience for drama fans.

The Creative Team Behind Fired Up!

Produced by DaMou Entertainment, Fired Up! was developed by Chien Li-ying.

The series is produced by Jayde Lin, Leo Chiang, and Lin Shiang-ling, with Kao Pin-chuan and Tseng Ying-ting serving as directors.

Stream Fired Up! Exclusively on HBO Max

Catch the premiere of Fired Up! on July 31, exclusively on HBO Max, with new episodes streaming every Friday.

Subscribe to HBO Max at www.hbomax.com, with plans starting at ₱149 per month or ₱1,040 for 12 months, and stream the series on your preferred device.

July 17, 2026
Faker, TXT’s Beomgyu, and Max Changmin Join Disney+’s “Murder Club: Liar’s Table,” Premiering July 29

A table full of suspects. One hidden culprit. No one can be trusted.

Disney+ is set to premiere “Murder Club: Liar’s Table” on July 29, introducing an AI-driven murder mystery game show where celebrity players must separate fact from fiction before the real culprit escapes suspicion.

Blending immersive storytelling, psychological strategy, and high-stakes deduction, the new Korean variety show challenges its cast to solve elaborate murder cases while one player secretly works against the group.

A High-Stakes Battle of Lies and Logic

In “Murder Club: Liar’s Table,” an all-star group of participants enters a realistic world of deception, hidden motives, and carefully planted evidence.

Each case unfolds across a different setting, from the Joseon Dynasty to a modern baseball field and even a prison. AI-generated video sequences help bring the events surrounding each fictional murder to life, giving players a closer look at the clues, circumstances, and possible motives behind the crime.

Still, solving the mystery will not be easy.

With only limited evidence available, the players must question one another, spot contradictions, and piece together the truth. At the same time, the concealed culprit must misdirect the group, defend suspicious behavior, and avoid exposure until the final moment.

Every accusation could reveal the truth. Then again, it could also help the culprit win.

An All-Star Cast Takes a Seat at the Table

Produced by KJH Studio and Skaper AI, the series brings together familiar personalities from gaming, entertainment, sports, food, comedy, and online media.

The cast includes travel YouTuber Pani Bottle, professional gamer Faker, veteran comedian Choi Yangrak, comedian Eom Jiyoon, actor Shin Sungrok, and viral creator Kim Seontae.

They will be joined by TVXQ!’s Max Changmin, professional baseball player Kim Hyunsoo, TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s Beomgyu, and “Culinary Class Wars” chef Park Juseong.

With players coming from such different backgrounds, each participant is expected to bring a distinct strategy to the game. Some may rely on sharp observation. Others could use instinct, persuasion, humor, or a convincing poker face.

And seated among them, quietly shaping the game, is the culprit.

More Korean Variety Entertainment on Disney+

“Murder Club: Liar’s Table” joins Disney+’s expanding lineup of Korean variety programs and APAC Originals.

Viewers can also stream “Battle of Fates,” a supernatural reality competition where 49 fate readers compete against one another, as well as “I Am Boxer,” which follows 90 boxing hopefuls battling for the chance to become Korea’s next boxing icon.

Also available is “The Zone: Survival Mission,” featuring Yu Jaeseok, Kwon Yuri, Dex, and Kim Donghyun as they take on a series of increasingly chaotic and hilarious survival challenges.

From intense competitions to unpredictable reality formats, the platform offers a growing selection of Korean entertainment for fans looking for something suspenseful, funny, or completely unexpected.

Watch “Murder Club: Liar’s Table” on Disney+

Who will uncover the truth, and who will successfully deceive everyone until the end?

Stream “Murder Club: Liar’s Table” exclusively on Disney+ beginning July 29.

July 17, 2026
“What an Experience!” Jericho Rosales Joins Global Praise for Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” Now Showing in Cinemas

Excitement surrounding Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” is growing rapidly as early reactions from international screenings begin to surface.

Journalists, critics, and invited guests have praised the film’s breathtaking visuals, massive action sequences, powerful performances, and ambitious retelling of Homer’s legendary Greek epic.

Among the select guests who experienced the film ahead of its release was Filipino actor Jericho Rosales, who represented the Philippines at the red carpet premiere in Mumbai, India, on July 11.

Jericho Rosales Walks the Red Carpet in Mumbai

Rosales attended the premiere alongside some of the biggest names connected to the film.

During the event, he met acclaimed director Christopher Nolan and interacted with cast members Matt Damon and Tom Holland.

Sharing highlights from the special occasion, Rosales described “The Odyssey” as an immersive cinematic experience that pulls viewers into Odysseus’ long and dangerous voyage.

“You feel like you’re part of the adventure. You’re part of the journey home,” Rosales said in a video recounting the premiere.

The veteran actor also shared his excitement about seeing the film again with his friends and family, this time in IMAX.

For its Philippine release, “The Odyssey” will be the only movie screening in IMAX during its first three weeks in cinemas. Now showing in cinemas nationwide.

Rosales later posted photos from the Mumbai premiere, including a memorable moment with Matt Damon, who plays the legendary Greek warrior and king Odysseus.

He also received an autograph from the Hollywood actor, making the already unforgettable red carpet experience even more special.

Watch the final trailer for “The Odyssey” here:

Early Reactions Applaud the Film’s Massive Scale

The first wave of reactions has highlighted the extraordinary scale of Nolan’s latest production.

The Independent who writes, ““Nolan’s biggest film to date. This film has about triple the number of huge set pieces than any of Nolan’s previous films, and every single one of them is breathtaking in their own way. In The Odyssey, Nolan showcases visual trickery in a way you’ve never seen a few before. The only criticism I have, and it’s a good problem, is … you’re often left wanting more of each set piece, and it certainly goes your way into height of the re-watchability factor of the film. I also can’t quite remember a film having such a stacked cast, where everyone delivers. Special shouts out to Tom Holland in his best role to date with Telemachus, Himesh Patel … and Samantha Morton who damn well steals the show with the few scenes she’s in.”

The publication also praised the movie’s visual effects, impressive ensemble, and strong replay value. Tom Holland, who portrays Telemachus, received particular recognition, along with Himesh Patel and Samantha Morton.

Morton was singled out for making a striking impression despite appearing in only a limited number of scenes.

Critics Praise the Star-Studded Cast

Variety also praises the film and the performance of the actors, writing, “I have seen Christopher Nolan’s #TheOdyssey, and it is an astonishing achievement. A triumphant, spectacular epic. The performances from Tom Holland, Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, John Leguizamo, Robert Pattinson and Lupita Nyong’o are genuinely grand. And for some, truly, the best performances of their career! … Christopher Nolan is a visionary, and #TheOdyssey is a work of art … The battle scenes, especially at Troy, are breathtaking. It’s an incredible epic.””

The outlet praised the performances of Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, John Leguizamo, Robert Pattinson, and Lupita Nyong’o.

Several cast members were described as delivering some of the finest performances of their careers.

With its sweeping visuals and emotionally charged performances, the adaptation was praised as both a grand spectacle and an impressive work of art.

A Powerful Big-Screen Experience

DigitalSpy takes note of the epic production scale of The Odyssey, writing, “The Odyssey is staggering. Packed with intense and spectacular set pieces, often backed by a soul-rattling score, it builds to a final act that’s as good as anything Nolan’s done. Purists might baulk at the adaptation changes, but as an experience, nobody is doing it like Nolan.”

Although fans familiar with Homer’s original poem may notice changes in the adaptation, the outlet praised Nolan’s ability to create a cinematic experience unlike anything else currently on the big screen.

That combination of scale, sound, and visual storytelling appears to be one of the film’s greatest strengths.

The Legendary Journey of Odysseus

“The Odyssey” follows Odysseus as he attempts to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War.

His journey becomes a dangerous test of courage, endurance, and survival as he encounters numerous obstacles along the way.

Back in Ithaca, his wife, Penelope, is surrounded by aggressive suitors seeking to claim Odysseus’ kingdom and take his place.

Their son, Telemachus, remains with her as they hold on to the hope that Odysseus will eventually return.

Bringing together mythology, action, drama, and adventure, Nolan’s adaptation transforms the ancient story into a bold cinematic spectacle designed for the largest possible screen.

“The Odyssey” Opens in Philippine Cinemas on July 15

The legendary journey begins when Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey”, now showing in cinemas.

Moviegoers can visit their preferred cinema or official ticketing platform to reserve seats.

For the latest news, trailers, and updates, follow Universal Pictures Philippines on Facebook, UniversalPicturesPH on Instagram, and UniversalPicsPH on TikTok.

July 16, 2026
‘PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie’ Roars Into Philippine Cinemas on August 26

Welcome to Jurassic Bark.

The PAW Patrol is gearing up for its biggest and wildest rescue mission yet in “PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie,” roaring into Philippine cinemas on August 26.

This time, the pups find themselves far from Adventure Bay and face to face with towering dinosaurs, a mysterious tropical island, and a volcanic disaster that threatens every creature in sight.

Joining them on the adventure are new characters, including Rex, Rhubarb, Timmy, and more.

A Mysterious Island Filled With Dinosaurs

The adventure begins when the PAW Patrol’s ship is caught in a mysterious storm. After being thrown off course, the pups crash-land on an uncharted tropical island populated by dinosaurs.

Stranded in unfamiliar territory, the team soon meets Rex, a pup who has lived on the island for years. Thanks to his experience, Rex knows nearly everything there is to know about dinosaurs and the island they call home.

His knowledge quickly becomes essential as the PAW Patrol adjusts to a world filled with massive footprints, prehistoric creatures, and rescue missions unlike anything they have handled before.

Mayor Humdinger Causes Dino-Sized Trouble

Just when the pups begin to understand their new surroundings, Mayor Humdinger arrives with another selfish scheme.

Hoping to profit from the island’s natural resources, Humdinger begins mining without considering the danger. His reckless actions accidentally trigger a huge dormant volcano, putting the entire island at risk.

With lava threatening the land and countless creatures in danger, the PAW Patrol must act fast.

The pups are pushed into a string of high-stakes, dino-sized rescues as they race to stop Humdinger, protect the island, and prevent its dinosaurs from facing extinction.

The PAW Patrol Takes On Its Biggest Mission Yet

From towering dinosaurs to a raging volcano, the team has never faced challenges this enormous.

Still, with courage, teamwork, and Rex’s dino expertise, the pups are ready to prove that no rescue is too big.

Packed with humor, heart, action, and prehistoric excitement, “PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie” promises a thrilling big-screen adventure for children, families, and longtime fans of the beloved rescue team.

A Star-Studded Voice Cast

The animated adventure features an ensemble voice cast that includes Carter Young, Mckenna Grace, Terry Crews, Meredith MacNeill, Ron Pardo, Jennifer Hudson, Hayden Chemberlen, Fortune Feimster, Jameela Jamil, Rain Janjua, Bill Nye, Paris Hilton, Lucien Duncan-Reid, William Desrosiers, Nylan Parthipan, and Snoop Dogg.

The film also introduces Henry Bolan.

About “PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie”

Paramount Animation and Spin Master Entertainment present a Spin Master Entertainment production.

Executive Producer: Ronnen Harary

Produced by: Jennifer Dodge, p.g.a.; Laura Clunie, p.g.a.; Toni Stevens, p.g.a.

Based on the Television Series Created by: Keith Chapman

Written by: Cal Brunker and Bob Barlen

Directed by: Cal Brunker

Meet the dino-mite crew when “PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie” roars into Philippine cinemas on August 26.

Follow @paramountpicsph for updates.

#PAWPatrolMovie

July 16, 2026
NEW MOVIES THIS WEEK: The Odyssey, The Second Child, and More!

Ready for your weekly big screen fix? This Wednesday, the cinemas are welcoming a diverse lineup that swings from the legendary Greek seas of The Odyssey to the deep-sea magic of Doraemon The Movie: Nobita and the New Castle of the Undersea Devil. Whether you are looking for the high-octane sci-fi action of Superhuman or the spine-chilling mystery of the South Korean horror film The Second Child, today’s slate has a ticket with your name on it.

Whether you’re in the mood for ancient legends, animated adventures, pulse-racing action, or eerie horror, this week’s releases offer something for every kind of moviegoer.

Here are the new movies opening in cinemas this week.

The Odyssey

2026 • R-13 • 2h 53m
ACTION, ADVENTURE, FANTASY
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One of literature’s greatest adventures arrives on the big screen.

After the Trojan War, the legendary King of Ithaca, Odysseus, begins the long journey back home. What should have been a triumphant return becomes an extraordinary test of endurance as he faces the wrath of the gods, terrifying mythical creatures, and impossible challenges across land and sea.

Director Christopher Nolan with cinematographer Hoyte can Hoytema, ASC on the set of The Odyssey

The film features an all-star cast that includes Matt Damon as the iconic hero alongside Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Charlize Theron, Zendaya, and more. The Odyssey is an action-packed, visually stunning fantasy adventure built for the biggest screen possible.

Doraemon The Movie: Nobita and the New Castle of the Undersea Devil

2026 • G • 1h 42m
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, FAMILY, FANTASY
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Doraemon and friends are back for another imaginative adventure.

When Nobita, Doraemon, Shizuka, Gian, and Suneo discover a mysterious underwater castle, they uncover a world filled with hidden treasures, ancient secrets, and unexpected dangers. Armed with Doraemon’s futuristic gadgets, the friends embark on an exciting journey beneath the waves where teamwork and courage are put to the test.

Equipped with Doraemon’s high-tech gadgets, the group sets off on a breathtaking aquatic journey that blends teamwork, heartwarming humor, and pure imagination.

Superhuman

2026 • R-13 • 1h 17m
ACTION, SCIENCE FICTION
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A teenager discovers that his life has been built on hidden secrets.

A troubled high school student begins experiencing extraordinary abilities that he cannot explain. As he searches for answers, he uncovers a conspiracy that changes everything he thought he knew about himself and the people around him.

Superhuman blends martial arts action, science fiction, and fast-paced suspense into an adrenaline-filled adventure.

The Second Child

2026 • R-13 • 1h 45m
FANTASY, HORROR
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A family’s tragic past refuses to stay buried.

After waking from a three-year coma, Su-an is haunted by the ghost of her late sister, who desperately seeks her help. Meanwhile, their mother continues searching for the truth behind her eldest daughter’s mysterious death, believing there is more to the story than anyone realizes.

As long-hidden secrets emerge, a centuries-old family curse begins to reveal itself, leading the family toward shocking discoveries and an unsettling encounter with a mysterious young woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to the deceased sister.

No matter what big screen vibe you are looking for this week, the cinema is ready to deliver an unforgettable escape. From the grand mythological voyages of ancient kings and the heartwarming undersea adventures of childhood heroes to the high-stakes thrills of genetically engineered teens and the haunting mysteries of doppelganger curses, there is a theater seat waiting for you. Grab your favorite snacks, round up your friends, and secure your tickets to experience the best of global storytelling the way it was meant to be seen! This week’s lineup delivers a variety of stories worth catching on the big screen.

Stay tuned for next week’s fresh batch of releases and updates. Keep ClickTheCity bookmarked for the latest showtimes, your next movie is a click away!

July 15, 2026