Author: ClickTheCity Entertainment

“The Legend of Hei II” Takes Hei Further Into an Epic, Heartwarming Adventure

A Bigger World, A Deeper Journey

A beloved universe opens a bold new chapter as The Legend of Hei II arrives with heightened emotion, exhilarating action, and stunning visual craft. The highly anticipated sequel reunites audiences with Hei and his companions, pushing their journey forward while deepening the themes of responsibility, balance, and compassion that defined the original film.

This time, Hei continues to train under his master, Wuxian, refining his spatial and metal abilities. While his powers remain unstable, their raw potential is undeniable. More importantly, Hei begins to understand that true strength goes beyond ability—it lies in how power is used, guided by empathy for both the human and spirit worlds. And just as his growth accelerates, unforeseen conflict disrupts the fragile harmony they seek to protect.

Watch the Official Trailer here:

Familiar Heroes Return With Fierce Momentum

Adding excitement to the sequel, Nezha storms back into action with his signature rebellious flair. His visually striking combat sequences bring intensity and speed, elevating the film’s adrenaline while reinforcing his dynamic bond with Hei. Each encounter crackles with energy, making his return a standout for fans craving high-impact action.

At the heart of the story remains Wuxian, whose warm and meaningful moments with Hei provide emotional grounding. However, peace is short-lived. A shocking attack on the Spirit Guild results in Wuxian being framed for the crime, casting doubt over his name and placing him under strict house arrest. As suspicion spreads, the question remains—will the truth be enough to restore his honor?

A New Ally Emerges

Stepping into the story is Lù Yě, a former apprentice of Wuxian and a composed, strategic Executor of the Spirit Guild. Partnering with Hei, she works to uncover the mystery behind the Guild attack and prove Wuxian’s innocence. With Wuxian restrained during the investigation, Lù Yě becomes Hei’s temporary guardian and mentor, offering guidance shaped by discipline and experience.

As their mission unfolds, Lù Yě’s past is revealed. Orphaned by war and stripped of her family, she carries deep resentment toward humans. Her journey becomes one of emotional reckoning, as long-held pain collides with unexpected bonds. Through Hei, she begins to confront whether healing and understanding can replace bitterness and loss.

A Sequel That Grows With Its Characters

The Legend of Hei II expands its universe with improved animation, richer detail, and heightened emotional stakes. Every character is given room to evolve, allowing audiences to connect more deeply with their struggles, hopes, and growth. The film balances high-energy action with quiet, meaningful moments that resonate long after the screen fades to black.

More than a simple continuation, the sequel invites viewers to rediscover the world of spirits and humans through a lens of healing, trust, and shared purpose. It is an experience that feels intimate yet grand, comforting yet thrilling.

Release Information

Brought to Philippine audiences by Encore Films Philippines and distributed by Warner Bros., The Legend of Hei II arrives in PH cinemas on January 21, 2026.

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

January 13, 2026
Back on the Ice: “Medalist” Season 2 Brings More Heart and High-Stakes Skating to Disney+
New Year, New Challenges: Medalist Season 2 Hits Disney+ This January

Starting the year strong, Medalist Season 2 is sliding into Disney+ on January 25, bringing with it an emotional, fast-paced continuation of one of anime’s most quietly powerful stories.

Returning to the rink are Inori Yuitsuka, a passionate young skater chasing an impossible dream, and her coach Tsukasa Akeuraji, a former skater with something to prove. After fighting their way through Season 1’s gripping Meikoh Cup arc, the duo now sets their sights on the All-Japan Novice Championship — a bigger stage, higher stakes, and tougher competition.

From Quiet Beginnings to the National Spotlight

For those new to the series, Medalist is far more than just a sports anime. It’s a heartfelt story of grit, growth, and what happens when raw determination meets unwavering belief.

In Season 1, viewers were introduced to Inori — a shy, awkward girl with zero experience but a deep love for skating. Enter Tsukasa, a washed-up prodigy who recognizes her potential. What started as a mentorship slowly evolved into a bond that transformed them both.

Now, with the Meikoh Cup behind them, their journey heads into uncharted territory. Can Inori shine on a national level? Can Tsukasa overcome his own regrets?

Get ready to witness electrifying routines, surprising rivalries, and emotional moments that will tug at your heartstrings.

A Story That Skates Past the Clichés

What sets Medalist apart? It’s not just the dynamic figure skating scenes or the vibrant animation. It’s the way it champions effort over talent, and how it spotlights the messy, beautiful, exhausting path of improvement.

Every leap, spin, and stumble on the ice mirrors a deeper personal breakthrough. It’s these human moments — quiet, reflective, and raw — that have earned Medalist a loyal following.

An Anime Lineup That Keeps on Giving

Medalist Season 2 is just one of the must-watch titles hitting Disney+ this year. 2025 marked a major milestone for anime fans on the platform, with a powerful roster that included:
- Wandance
- Disney Twisted-Wonderland: The Animation
- BULLET/BULLET
- And many more standout titles across genres
Already caught up on Medalist? You can stream other hit series like Tokyo Revengers, Gannibal, Sand Land: The Series, and Murai in Love — all available now on Disney+.

Mark Your Calendars: January 25

Whether you’re chasing your own New Year goals or just need a story that’ll inspire you to keep going, Medalist Season 2 is your next emotional anime fix.

Stream it starting January 25, exclusively on Disney+, and follow Inori and Tsukasa as they lace up for the fight of their lives — on and off the ice.

When the world underestimates you, let your passion do the talking.
January 13, 2026
The Big Guy Craze Is On! Catch “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants” in Theaters January 14

Say Hello to SpongeBob’s Big Guy Era

SpongeBob is back – and this time, he’s bigger, bolder, and bursting with confidence in The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, splashing into Philippine cinemas on January 14!

In his latest epic adventure, our favorite absorbent, yellow sea sponge sets out on a side-splitting, swashbuckling quest to prove he’s got what it takes to be the Big Guy. With his trusty pals Patrick, Sandy, and Squidward by his side, SpongeBob chases down the legendary Flying Dutchman in a hilarious underwater odyssey that dives deeper than ever before.

Meet the Newest Vibe: The Big Guy Dance Craze

SpongeBob isn’t just on a mission—he’s starting a movement. To celebrate the Big Guy Era, The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants features a brand-new original track titled “Big Guy” by chart-topping rapper and lifelong SpongeBob fan, Ice Spice. “I grew up watching SpongeBob. I’m a huge fan,” says Ice Spice.

The track has sparked a viral dance craze on social media, inspiring fans young and young-at-heart to show off their best Big Guy moves. Think: confidence, flair, and a whole lot of SpongeBob swagger.

SpongeBob x Ice Spice: An Unlikely but Iconic Duo

Ice Spice doesn’t just deliver the movie’s anthem—she’s also lending her voice to a brand-new character in the film! And in a special behind-the-scenes video, she opens up about how the track captures SpongeBob’s fresh outlook.

“This song is called Big Guy,” says Ice Spice. “It’s just supposed to embody confidence and this new attitude [SpongeBob] has facing the world.”

You can watch both the Ice Spice featurette and the Big Guy dance invitation online now—just be warned: the beat willget stuck in your head (and your feet might start moving on their own).

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A post shared by Paramount Pictures Philippines (@paramountpicsph)

Your Ticket to Bikini Bottom Awaits!

With high-seas hijinks, unforgettable one-liners, surprise celebrity voices, and SpongeBob’s biggest glow-up yet, The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants is the must-watch family event of 2026. Whether you’re a lifelong Bikini Bottom fan or just in it for the vibes, this is one comedy-adventure you don’t want to miss.

Catch the Big Guy Energy on the big screen when The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants premieres in Philippine cinemas this January 14, distributed locally by Paramount Pictures.

Follow the #BigGuyDance trend, and get ready to shout: “I’m ready… to be a Big Guy!”

_{Photo and video credit: Paramount Pictures}

January 13, 2026
Prime Video Updates You May Have Missed and What’s Ahead in 2026
As 2025 came to a close, Prime Video quietly rolled out major product upgrades while gearing up for an ambitious 2026 lineup of must-watch series, films, and documentaries. Here’s a quick look at the latest updates you might have missed, plus a preview of what’s next for viewers.

A Smarter, More Immersive Mobile Experience

Launched globally in 2025, Prime Video’s mobile enhancements are designed to make streaming smoother, more intuitive, and more immersive, laying the groundwork for even bigger improvements in 2026.

What’s new on mobile:

A refreshed home page
The redesigned mobile home screen now auto-plays trailers and teasers as users browse, making it easier to discover what to watch. Live sports and Live TV content also auto-play, allowing viewers to jump straight into full-screen viewing.

With mobile-optimized portrait imagery, users can browse up to 50% more titles while holding their phones vertically.

A redesigned viewing experience
The updated video player supports one-handed use and effortless multitasking. Viewers can explore cast information, trivia, and related content without pausing playback, keeping the viewing experience seamless and uninterrupted.

What’s Coming Next in 2026

Prime Video is set to expand these mobile upgrades even further in 2026, with upcoming features including:
- Enhanced navigation for quicker access to subscriptions
- Playback speed controls (0.75x, 1.25x, and 1.5x)
- Mini-player mode for easy multitasking within the app
- A redesigned Live TV experience featuring instant video playback and personalized, auto-playing live channels
Looking Ahead: Prime Video Highlights for 2026

Prime Video’s 2026 slate promises a compelling mix of prestige dramas, global originals, blockbuster franchises, gripping documentaries, and high-stakes thrillers—setting the stage for another standout year of entertainment:
- Young Sherlock (March 4, 2026)
  A bold reimagining of Sherlock Holmes’ origin story from director and executive producer Guy Ritchie, starring Hero Fiennes Tiffin with Colin Firth, Joseph Fiennes, and Natascha McElhone.
- 56 Days (February 18, 2026)
  An eight-episode thriller adapted from Catherine Ryan Howard’s bestselling novel, starring Dove Cameron and Avan Jogia.
- The Boys – Season 5 (April 8, 2026)
  The Emmy Award-winning series returns for its fifth and final season, concluding with an epic finale on May 20, 2026.
- Cross – Season 2 (February 11, 2026)
  Based on James Patterson’s bestselling book series, starring Aldis Hodge.
- Spider-Noir (2026)
  A live-action Marvel series starring Nicolas Cage, available in both black-and-white and color.
- Love Me Love Me (2026)
  A young adult romance film adapted from Stefania S.’s global Wattpad phenomenon.
- The CEO Club (February 23, 2026)
  An eight-episode docu-series featuring Serena Williams, Thalia, Winnie Harlow, and other global leaders.
- Man on the Run (February 25, 2026)
  An intimate documentary following Paul McCartney’s post-Beatles journey, directed by Academy Award-winner Morgan Neville.
- Scarpetta (March 11, 2026)
  A forensic crime thriller starring Nicole Kidman and Jamie Lee Curtis, based on Patricia Cornwell’s bestselling novels.
As Prime Video continues to refine how audiences discover and enjoy content, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of both smarter streaming and standout storytelling. With enhanced mobile features on the way and a diverse lineup of new series, films, and documentaries set to debut, viewers can look forward to an experience that’s more seamless, personalized, and exciting than ever, making Prime Video a must-watch destination in the year ahead.

All Photos credit to Prime Video
January 9, 2026
The Hunt Continues: Prime Video Reveals Official Trailer for “Cross” Season Two
Prime Video has officially revealed the pulse-pounding trailer and striking key art for Season Two of Cross, the breakout crime thriller inspired by the iconic characters created by James Patterson. Produced by Amazon MGM Studios and Paramount Television Studios, the new season premieres February 11, 2026, streaming exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

The season opens strong with the first three episodes, followed by weekly releases, building suspense all the way to the gripping season finale on March 18, 2026. And yes—things are about to get far more dangerous.

A Breakout Hit Returns—Bigger, Darker, and Bolder

Set against the tense backdrop of Washington, D.C., Cross is created by executive producer and showrunner Ben Watkins, who also returns in a recurring role this season. The series follows Alex Cross (portrayed with intensity by Aldis Hodge), a brilliant homicide detective and forensic psychologist gifted with a chilling ability to think like a killer.

After pulling in over 40 million viewers globally within its first 20 days, Season One cemented Cross as one of Prime Video’s most talked-about crime thrillers. Now, Season Two raises the stakes—emotionally, psychologically, and lethally.

Season Two: Power, Paranoia, and a Deadly Countdown

This time, the danger comes wrapped in wealth and influence. Lance Durand (played by Matthew Lillard), a powerful billionaire business titan, seeks FBI protection after receiving a chilling death threat—one disturbingly connected to the murder of a fellow billionaire playboy.

As the clock ticks, Detective Alex Cross teams up once again with FBI Agent Kayla Craig (Alona Tal) in a high-risk joint mission to protect Durand and unmask a killer who leaves behind grotesque, calculated clues. Meanwhile, John Sampson (Isaiah Mustafa), Cross’ trusted partner and lifelong friend, stumbles upon an unexpected connection that could change everything.

With every revelation, the danger sharpens—and no one is truly safe.

A Powerful Cast Expands the Cross Universe

Season Two introduces commanding new performances from Matthew Lillard, Jeanine Mason, and Wes Chatham, each adding new layers of intrigue and menace. They join a stellar returning ensemble that includes Isaiah Mustafa, Alona Tal, Samantha Walkes, Juanita Jennings, Caleb Elijah, Melody Hurd, and Johnny Ray Gill.

Behind the scenes, the series is executive produced by Aldis Hodge, Ben Watkins, Sam Ernst, Jim Dunn, J. David Shanks, Aiyana White, Craig Siebels, Owen Shiflett, James Patterson, Bill Robinson, and Patrick Santa—a powerhouse team ensuring the story remains sharp, emotional, and relentlessly gripping.

When to Watch and Where

Cross Season Two premieres February 11, 2026, only on Prime Video.

Follow the conversation:
- Instagram: @crossonprime / @primevideo
- X: @crossonprime / @primevideo
- Hashtag: #CrossOnPrime
January 9, 2026
Disney+ Unveils Official Trailer for FX’s Stylish New Thriller “The Beauty”

Disney+ has officially unveiled the trailer for FX’s original drama series The Beauty, setting the stage for a stylish yet chilling global thriller from executive producer Ryan Murphy. The series premieres Thursday, January 22, exclusively on Disney+, with the first three episodes dropping on launch day.

The 11-episode debut season will continue with weekly Thursday releases, culminating in a heightened finale with two episodes airing in each of the final two weeks—a release schedule designed to keep tension running high.

Glamour Meets a Gruesome Mystery

In The Beauty, the glamorous world of high fashion hides a deadly secret. When international supermodels begin dying under brutal and unexplained circumstances, the case draws the attention of the FBI. Agents Cooper Madsen (Evan Peters) and Jordan Bennett (Rebecca Hall) are dispatched to Paris, only to uncover a conspiracy far darker than anyone imagined.

Their investigation reveals a sexually transmitted virus capable of transforming ordinary people into icons of physical perfection. The transformation, however, comes with horrifying consequences that ripple across borders and industries alike.

A Miracle Drug With Sinister Intentions

At the heart of the mystery is “The Corporation,” a powerful tech empire led by enigmatic billionaire Ashton Kutcher. His company has secretly engineered the drug known as “The Beauty,” a so-called miracle that fuels obsession, desire, and ultimately devastation. Protecting his trillion-dollar creation at all costs, he deploys his ruthless enforcer, “The Assassin” (Anthony Ramos), leaving a trail of fear in his wake.

As the epidemic spreads from Paris to Venice, Rome, and New York, a lost outsider named Jeremy (Jeremy Pope) becomes entangled in the chaos—searching for purpose as humanity edges closer to irreversible change.

The Beauty poses a haunting question that lingers long after each episode:

How much would you give up to be perfect?

An International Cast and Creative Powerhouse

The series boasts an impressive lineup of guest stars, including Bella Hadid, Isabella Rossellini, Meghan Trainor, Ben Platt, Billy Eichner, Nicola Peltz Beckham, Peter Gallagher, Vincent D’Onofrio, and more, adding layers of intrigue and star power to the already compelling narrative.

Created and written by Ryan Murphy and Matthew Hodgson, The Beauty is based on the acclaimed comic book series by Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley, with Haun serving as a consultant. The show is executive produced by Murphy, Hodgson, Peters, Ramos, Pope, and an extensive team of seasoned collaborators, and is produced by 20th Television.

Viewer Controls and Streaming Assurance

While The Beauty explores mature and provocative themes, Disney+ continues to offer robust parental control features. Subscribers can manage content access through PIN-protected profiles, customize viewing restrictions, and utilize Junior Mode, ensuring a safe and confident streaming environment for every household.

January 9, 2026
Justice Faces the Machine in “Mercy,” A Near-Future Sci-Fi Thriller Starring Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson

Science fiction turns disturbingly familiar in Mercy, a high-stakes action thriller from acclaimed filmmaker Timur Bekmambetov, the visionary director behind Unfriended, Searching, Missing, and Profile. Known for redefining modern storytelling through his signature Screenlife format, Bekmambetov once again stretches cinematic boundaries—this time pairing innovative visuals with a grounded, emotionally charged story that feels uncomfortably close to reality.

Set in the year 2029, Mercy presents a world where technology no longer supports justice—it controls it.

A Man on Trial in a Digital Courtroom

The story follows Detective Chris Raven (Chris Pratt, Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers: Endgame), who finds himself accused of murdering his wife, Nicole (Annabelle Wallis, Peaky Blinders). With the justice system fully automated, Raven’s fate rests in the hands of an artificial intelligence judge—an invention he once proudly defended.

That AI is Judge Maddox, portrayed with icy precision by Rebecca Ferguson (Dune, Mission: Impossible franchise). With no jury and no second chances, Raven must prove his innocence directly to Maddox. Failure means immediate execution.

“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.”

Why the Story Resonated with the Cast

Chris Pratt admits he was instantly captivated by the screenplay and Bekmambetov’s storytelling 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.”

For Rebecca Ferguson, the film raises urgent questions about society’s growing dependence on artificial intelligence.

“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.”

Watch the Official Trailer here:

A Familiar Future with Alarming Consequences

Producer Robert Amidon notes that Mercy continues Bekmambetov’s tradition of stories rooted in realism, despite their futuristic settings.

“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.”

With its sleek digital presentation, gripping performances, and morally charged premise, Mercy delivers more than adrenaline—it challenges audiences to question how much control technology should have over human lives.

Coming to Philippine Cinemas

Mercy opens in Philippine theaters on January 28, 2026, screening in IMAX and 3D. The film is distributed locally by Columbia Pictures, the Philippine office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

Join the conversation online using #MercyMovie and follow @columbiapicph for updates.

January 8, 2026
NEW MOVIES THIS WEEK: Anaconda, The Housemaid, and More!

New year, new stories, new reasons to head back to the big screen. This week marks the very first batch of movie releases for 2026, and it’s already serving a mix of laughs, thrills, and music-fueled moments worth watching. Leading the first new movie releases of the year are Anaconda, a jungle adventure comedy packed with chaos and laughs, and The Housemaid, a sleek thriller that turns a dream job into a dangerous game. The celebration continues this weekend with two highly anticipated event screenings arriving January 10. Fans can catch #Runseokjin_Ep.Tour The Movie and Love Live! Nijigasaki High School Idol Club Final Chapter Part 2, both ready to light up the big screen. Ready to make your first cinema pick of 2026?

Let’s check out what’s new on the big screen today.

Anaconda

2026 • PG • 1h 39m
ADVENTURE, COMEDY
GET SHOWTIMES

The year kicks off with laughs, chaos, and a rainforest full of danger. Anaconda follows a group of longtime friends facing midlife crossroads who head into the jungle to remake their favorite movie from their youth. What starts as a nostalgic passion project turns into a wild survival story involving natural disasters, dangerous criminals, and enormous snakes.

With Paul Rudd and Jack Black at the center, the film delivers fast-paced humor, outrageous situations, and buddy-movie energy that feels tailor-made for a crowd.

The Housemaid

2026 • R-16 • 2h 11m
MYSTERY, THRILLER
GET SHOWTIMES

If your first movie of 2026 needs a darker edge, The Housemaid is ready. Millie Calloway accepts a live-in job with the wealthy Winchester family, hoping for a fresh start. What she walks into instead is a seductive game of secrets, scandal, and shifting power that becomes more dangerous with every revelation.

Sydney Sweeney as Millie and Amanda Seyfried as Nina in The Housemaid. Photo Credit: Daniel McFadden/Lionsgate

Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried bring intensity and intrigue to a story built on tension, mood, and carefully timed shocks. It is sleek, unsettling, and impossible to look away from.

#Runseokjin_Ep.Tour The Movie

(Opening Date: January 10, 2026)

2026 • PG • 1h 34m
DOCUMENTARY, MUSIC
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The first concert film of 2026 brings Jin’s solo fan concert world tour straight to the big screen. Spanning 10 cities and 20 performances, the film captures the most thrilling moments of the tour, built around the theme of “challenge.” Across five energetic rounds, Jin sings, laughs, and connects with ARMY through music, missions, and heartfelt exchanges.

From tracks on his album “Happy” to songs from “Echo” and a special BTS medley, the experience blends emotion and spectacle in a way only a cinema can deliver.

Love Live! Nijigasaki High School Idol Club Final Chapter Part 2

(Opening Date: January 10, 2026)

2026 • G • 1h 14m
ANIMATION, MUSIC
GET SHOWTIMES

The story continues in the second film of the Final Chapter trilogy. Picking up after season two and the OVA, this chapter follows the Nijigasaki High School Idol Club as friendship, ambition, and music guide their next steps.

With polished animation, powerful songs, and character moments fans have been waiting for, this installment delivers warmth, heart, and a celebration of what makes the series special.

FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING

Missed last week’s releases? No worries. After the MMFF 2025 entries that opened last December 25, these crowd-pleasers are still going strong, packing theaters with action, laughs, and heart. Here’s what’s holding strong:

Call Me Mother

2025 • PG • 2h
COMEDY, DRAMA
GET SHOWTIMES

Bar Boys: After School

2025 • PG • 2h 6m
DRAMA
GET SHOWTIMES

I’mPerfect

2025 • G • 1h 11m
ROMANCE
GET SHOWTIMES

Love You So Bad

2025 • PG • 1h 52m
ROMANCE
GET SHOWTIMES

Manila’s Finest

2025 • PG • 1h 59m
ACTION, CRIME, THRILLER
GET SHOWTIMES

Rekonek

2025 • PG • 1h 55m
DRAMA, FAMILY
GET SHOWTIMES

Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins

2025 • R-13 • 2h 28m
HORROR
GET SHOWTIMES

Unmarry

2025 • PG • 2h 10m
DRAMA
GET SHOWTIMES

Avatar: Fire and Ash

2025 • PG • 3h 15m
ADVENTURE, FANTASY, SCIENCE FICTION
GET SHOWTIMES
GET SHOWTIMES 3D

Zootopia 2

2025 • PG • 1h 47m
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY
GET SHOWTIMES

Wicked: For Good

2025 • PG • 2h 17m
FAMILY, FANTASY, MUSICAL, ROMANCE
GET SHOWTIMES

Ready to Kick Off 2026 at the Movies?

The first new movies of 2026 bring variety excitement and fan-favorite events to cinemas this week. Start with Anacondaor The Housemaid today January 8, then line up your weekend plans for January 10 with two special releases made for the big screen. Keep ClickTheCity Movies bookmarked for the latest showtimes, your next movie is a click away. So tag your crew, grab that extra-buttered popcorn, and catch these must-see films. 2026 moviegoing starts now.

January 8, 2026
Marvel Television Unveils Electrifying New Trailer and First-Look Stills for “Wonder Man”

Marvel Television has officially unveiled an all-new trailer and a striking set of stills for its upcoming series, “Wonder Man,” offering audiences an exciting preview of a superhero story told through the unpredictable lens of Hollywood.

Set to stream exclusively on Disney+ beginning January 28, the eight-episode series is created by Destin Daniel Cretton (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Spider-Man: Brand New Day) and Andrew Guest (Community, Hawkeye). Leading the cast is Emmy Award winner Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Simon Williams, alongside Academy Award winner Ben Kingsley, who returns as the ever-theatrical Trevor Slattery.

A Story of Ambition, Reinvention, and Stardom

Wonder Man centers on Simon Williams, an aspiring Hollywood actor struggling to land meaningful roles and gain recognition in an unforgiving industry. His life takes an unexpected turn after meeting Trevor Slattery, a performer whose most memorable work may be behind him—but whose love for acting remains larger than life.

Their paths collide when news breaks that legendary filmmaker Von Kovak is remaking the superhero film “Wonder Man.” Suddenly, the stakes are high. For Simon, it’s a chance to finally break through. For Trevor, it’s an opportunity to reclaim relevance. Together, they chase roles that could transform their lives, while navigating ego, desperation, and the illusion of fame.

The series offers audiences a rare peek behind the curtain of the entertainment industry, blending superhero mythology with grounded, character-driven storytelling.

Marvel with a Self-Aware Edge

Unlike traditional superhero fare, Wonder Man leans into satire, emotional depth, and industry commentary, balancing humor with heartfelt moments. The newly released trailer hints at strong performances, sharp writing, and an inventive tone that sets the series apart within the Marvel Television lineup.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II brings intensity and vulnerability to Simon Williams, while Ben Kingsley’s return as Trevor Slattery adds wit, unpredictability, and a touch of theatrical chaos that longtime Marvel fans will instantly recognize.

Streaming Details

All eight episodes of “Wonder Man” will premiere January 28, streaming exclusively on Disney+.

January 7, 2026
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Makes Its Manila Stage Debut This July

Manila is about to get a taste of pure imagination. For the first time ever, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory lands in the Philippines, bringing Roald Dahl’s beloved story to life at The Theatre at Solaire from July 8 to July 26, 2026.

This Manila premiere marks a major moment for local theatre fans. Presented by Broadway International Group and Broadway Asia in association with GMG Productions and a roster of global partners, this production invites audiences of all ages into Willy Wonka’s wonderfully inventive world. Whether you grew up with the book, the classic film, or simply love a spectacular night at the theatre, this is one show that promises visual wonder and heart.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Photo by Yingzhou

From Golden Tickets to Pure Imagination

Based on Roald Dahl’s iconic novel, the musical follows young Charlie Bucket on his unforgettable journey inside Willy Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory. Expect chocolate rivers, nut-sorting squirrels, mischievous Oompa-Loompas, and theatrical surprises at every turn.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Photo by Yingzhou

The show blends beloved songs from the 1971 film such as “Pure Imagination,” “The Candy Man,” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” with fresh original numbers by Grammy and Tony Award winners Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, the creative duo behind Hairspray and Mary Poppins Returns. The result is a production that feels both nostalgic and thrillingly new.

A Global Hit Now Heading Our Way

After a sold-out run at Shanghai Culture Square in November 2025 and raves from audiences across Asia, the Broadway Musical is now making its Manila debut as part of a massive international tour. This global journey will travel through major cities including Hong Kong, Singapore, Beijing, Shanghai, Hainan, Taipei, and Seoul, with Manila proudly on the list.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Photo by Yingzhou

Producers Simone Genatt and Marc Routh describe the scale and imagination behind the show in their statement.
“Roald Dahl’s CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY is a dazzling fantasy for everyone from everywhere. This new production features miraculous special effects and cutting edge hologauze 3D technology based on advanced magic principles. We are so excited to share the breathtaking world of this beloved Broadway musical about the power of imagination, and the art of invention with Beijing audiences in this spectacular new immersive production from an all-Broadway creative team!”

That same production now makes its way to Manila, complete with the technical wizardry and creative flair that have captivated audiences worldwide.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Photo by Yingzhou

Illusions, Inventions, and Stage Wizardry

A major highlight of the show is its theatrical magic, led by celebrated Las Vegas illusion designer Tim Clothier. Known for creating jaw-dropping stage effects, Clothier brings fresh ideas to Willy Wonka’s world. His passion for theatrical invention shines through in his words.
“Willy Wonka is the king of imagination, and being able to design new stage wizardry for that character is a dream come true.”

Expect eye-catching effects, innovative illusions, and immersive stagecraft that bring Dahl’s surreal universe vividly to life.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Photo by Yingzhou

Ticket Details and Early Access

The Manila run is strictly limited, so fans will want to mark their calendars early. Here is how to secure seats:

UnionBank of the Philippines Early Access
January 12 to 15, 2026 via ticketworld.com.ph

GMG Productions Waitlist for Early Seating
Sign up at gmg-productions.com until January 14 at 11:59pm Philippine Time

Public On Sale
January 17, 2026 through TicketWorld

For the latest announcements, follow GMG Productions on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, and @charlieglobaltour on Instagram for international tour updates.

The Broadway production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory premiered in 2017, running for more than 300 performances before touring North America for four years. It later enjoyed success in London’s West End, where it earned two Olivier Awards.

This touring version brings that celebrated legacy to Manila, blending family-friendly storytelling with world-class design, playful choreography, and a score that balances nostalgia with fresh energy. It is a rare chance to experience a Broadway-scale musical locally that speaks to both young audiences and seasoned theatre fans.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Photo by Yingzhou

The Creative Team Behind The Magic

The musical features music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman, and a book by David Greig based on Roald Dahl’s novel. Songs from the original motion picture were written by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley.

The original Broadway staging was directed by four-time Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien with choreography by Joshua Bergasse. For the global tour, the production is directed by Matt Lenz, choreographed by Alison Solomon, and musically supervised by Nate Patten and Greg Jarrett.

Design credits include Mark Thompson for set and costumes, Christine Peters for tour scenic design, Jeff Sugg for projections, Rory Beaton for lighting, Mike Thacker for sound, Basil Twist for puppetry, and Tim Clothier for illusions. Orchestrations are by Doug Besterman with musical arrangements by Marc Shaiman.

GMG Productions serves as Manila General Manager, ensuring the show arrives with the same polish seen on international stages.

With its inventive visuals, beloved music, and imaginative storytelling, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is set to become one of Manila’s most anticipated theatre events of 2026. It is joyful, family-friendly, and filled with moments that spark wonder long after the curtain call.

For show updates and more information about the production, visit www.broadwayasia.com.

January 7, 2026