Excitement ran high in Mexico City as Chris Pratt stepped onto the red carpet for the premiere of his newest action thriller, Mercy, localized in Mexico as Sin Piedad, last January 17. The Hollywood star was greeted with loud cheers and infectious enthusiasm, as fans eagerly snapped photos, asked for selfies, and shared unforgettable moments with the actor.
Chris Pratt, Kali Reis, and Timur Bekmambetov attend the red carpet premiere of Mercy on January 17 in Mexico City
Joining Pratt were director Timur Bekmambetov and co-star Kali Reis, both warmly welcomed by the crowd. The trio took time to interact with fans, creating a lively and feel-good atmosphere that perfectly matched the film’s rising global buzz.
A High-Stakes Battle Between Man and Machine
Mercy is a sleek, futuristic action thriller from visionary director Timur Bekmambetov. The film stars Chris Pratt as Detective Chris Raven, a man accused of killing his wife and placed on trial for his life.
Chris Pratt strikes a pose at the Mexico premiere of MercyFans hold up a poster at the Mexico premiere of Mercy
What makes the case even more chilling is the judge—an advanced AI named Maddox, portrayed by Rebecca Ferguson. Raven is given just ninety minutes to prove his innocence or face the ultimate punishment. With constant surveillance, mounting pressure, and the help of his trusted partner Detective Jacqueline Diallo (played by Kali Reis), the story unfolds as a tense race against time. As the clock ticks, the film raises gripping questions about justice, truth, and the technology designed to protect humanity.
Watch the Official Trailer here:
A Must-Watch Cinematic Experience for Filipino Audiences
Packed with intense action, emotional stakes, and futuristic visuals, Mercy is set to deliver a powerful and exciting big-screen experience. The film opens in Philippine cinemas on January 28, 2026, including IMAX, promising audiences a visually striking and emotionally charged ride.
Chris Pratt and Kali Reis on stage at the Mexico premiere of Mercy
Mercy is distributed locally by Columbia Pictures, the Philippine office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.
Stay updated and join the conversation using #MercyMovie, and follow @columbiapicph on social media.
Just when you thought horror had shown it all, director Johannes Roberts delivers something truly primal.
His latest film, Primate, takes terror to new—and hairy—heights, following a group of teens whose seemingly sweet pet chimpanzee, Ben, suddenly turns from cuddly to killer. But what really makes PRIMATE stand out isn’t just the gore or suspense—it’s how real it all feels. And that’s thanks to a decision most modern filmmakers would shy away from: using practical effects over CGI.
No Green Screens, Just Grit
Forget pixels. From the very beginning, Roberts knew that Primate needed to be rooted in something tangible.
“A movie like this requires a feeling of immediacy,” he says. “We decided to go with practical effects to create a more visceral experience both for the audience and the actors. But the actors had to interact closely with Ben. A real chimp would be a real threat.”
And build him they did—with terrifying detail.
To bring the chimpanzee to life, Roberts enlisted the help of Millennium FX, one of the most respected practical effects studios in the world. Known for their work in films and TV like Doctor Who and The Wolfman, their team was tasked with crafting a chimp so lifelike, it would blur the line between man and monster.
Meet Ben: A Chimp Made by Hand (and Heart)
Enter Miguel Torres Umba, an actor and movement specialist who physically embodied Ben by wearing a custom-built chimpanzee suit. But this wasn’t any ordinary costume. It was a full-body, animatronic-enhanced suit designed to capture everything from subtle expressions to full-blown fury.
“Johannes is a great horror director,” says Gorton. “He understands that the more tangible and in the moment something is, the more powerful it is. Our job was to make Ben seem real, make Ben practical and make Ben sympathetic, but at the same time dangerous. It’s a hugely physical performance so we needed to strike a balance between allowing the actor’s freedom and making it feel real enough to pass muster on the screen.”
From sketch to screen, the chimp suit went through a whirlwind five-week build before the first camera test. The initial prototype? “Held together with string and sticky tape,” Gorton laughs. But even then, the potential was undeniable.
50 Artists. 1 Suit. Infinite Nightmares.
Creating Ben required more than just a costume. It took a team of over 50 artists and technicians, each working tirelessly to ensure every aspect was just right—down to the last strand of fur.
The fur itself? Hand-dyed yak hair, carefully punched into mesh by hand, styled and steamed daily. According to co-director Kate Walshe, maintaining Ben’s appearance was like running a “monkey hair salon” on set every morning.
The suit came with multiple heads—each one engineered for a specific use. One could move its mouth, lips, and nostrils with the help of puppeteers. Another was built for intense attack scenes, featuring an exaggerated open mouth full of razor-like teeth. There was even a scaled-down puppet version for tight shots and a non-robotic “stunt head” to keep performers safe during action scenes.
From Family Pet to Frightening Predator
For Torres Umba, playing Ben was more than physical—it was emotional. As an actor, he had to embody a character that audiences would first see as a beloved companion, only to watch that connection twist into something violent and horrifying.
I was impressed by how visual and evocative it was. The story evolves into a fascinating journey. We connect with Ben as part of the family and then watch in disbelief seeing a loved one transform into a ruthless monster. But they love him and he loves them back, so there’s always the hope he might be okay. That creates a sense of hope that punches you in the face when the violence spins out of control.”
This emotional arc, combined with practical effects, results in a character that feels painfully real. Ben isn’t just a monster—he’s a reflection of the fragile bond between humans and nature, and how easily it can snap.
Why Practical Effects Still Matter
In a world dominated by CGI creatures, Primate makes a powerful case for the return of old-school filmmaking. With real-world textures, live puppeteering, and actor-driven movement, the horror hits different—because it looks and feels real.
And that realism pays off. From subtle facial movements to sudden outbursts of violence, Ben’s presence is chillingly authentic. You’re not watching pixels on a screen—you’re staring into the eyes of something that might, just might, be alive.
Ready to Meet Ben?
Whether you’re a horror fan, a special effects enthusiast, or someone who simply appreciates boundary-pushing filmmaking, Primate delivers a thrilling, unforgettable ride.
Terrifying. Tragic. Tangible.
Ben isn’t your typical movie monster—and that’s exactly what makes him unforgettable.
A tropical getaway turns terrifying in this survival thriller. Lucy and her friends head to her family’s home in Hawaii for a carefree vacation, sharing the space with her pet chimpanzee Ben. When Ben becomes infected with rabies after an animal attack, the situation escalates fast, forcing the group into a brutal fight for survival.
Miguel Torres Umba as “Ben” in Primate from Paramount Pictures.
Claustrophobic tension and raw fear drive this story, making it a solid pick for horror fans who like their scares grounded and relentless.
Why watch it now? Because danger feels even closer when it comes from someone you trust.
The beloved idol journey continues with the second film in the Final Chapter trilogy. Picking up beyond season two and the OVA, this chapter deepens the story of the Nijigasaki High School Idol Club as friendship, dreams, and music guide their next steps.
With polished animation and powerful musical moments, this installment rewards longtime fans while offering a heartfelt experience for anyone drawn to stories about passion and teamwork.
Why see it on the big screen? Because these songs and emotions hit differently in a packed cinema.
Set in modern-day Tokyo, Rental Family follows an American actor struggling with purpose who stumbles into an unusual job. He works for a rental family agency, playing stand-in roles for strangers in need of companionship. What begins as a performance slowly becomes something real as he forms genuine bonds that blur the line between acting and living.
The nightmare returns. Drawn by a mysterious letter from his lost love Mary, James ventures back to Silent Hill, a town now swallowed by darkness. As he searches for her, he faces grotesque creatures and unsettling truths that threaten his sanity.
Atmospheric and emotionally charged, this film leans into psychological horror and haunting visuals, making it a must for fans of the franchise and anyone who enjoys slow-burning dread.
Why watch it in cinemas? Because Silent Hill belongs on the biggest screen possible.
An ordinary life becomes extraordinary and terrifying. Paul balances his work, marriage, and fatherhood until a strange meteorological event causes him to shrink without explanation. As science fails to help, Paul must survive a world that grows increasingly dangerous as he becomes smaller and more vulnerable.
Beyond its survival elements, the film reflects on identity, humanity, and what it means to endure when everything familiar changes.
Why catch it this week? Because science fiction that asks big questions always leaves an impression.
2026 • PG • 1h 59m ACTION, ANIMATION, FANTASY GET SHOWTIMES
The animated adventure continues as peace between the spirit world and humanity is shattered by a dangerous attack. Hei teams up with Luye, the last disciple of Shifu Wuxian, to uncover a conspiracy that threatens both realms and the bond they protect.
The Legend of Hei II | Photo credit: Encore Films Philippines
Bursting with action, emotion, and stunning animation, this sequel expands the world fans fell in love with while raising the stakes even higher.
Why watch it now? Because epic animated stories deserve the cinematic treatment.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Missed last week’s releases? No worries, these crowd-pleasers are still packing theaters with action, laughs, and heart. Here’s what’s holding strong:
2025 • PG • 1h 47m ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY GET SHOWTIMES
From nerve-wracking horror and haunting mysteries to gentle dramas and animated epics, this week’s new movies offer something for every kind of moviegoer. Whether you’re planning a solo cinema break or a group movie night, this week’s new movies brings plenty of options worth seeing on the big screen. So tag your crew, grab that extra-buttered popcorn, and catch these must-see films.
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!
Balancing hospital duty and film sets, a senior Nursing student from University of St. La Salle–Bacolod continues to leave a meaningful mark on the local film scene. Chelsea Tasic, a student nurse and emerging filmmaker, has officially competed at Sine Negrense: The Negros Island Film Festival for three consecutive years—an achievement that reflects both discipline and creative passion.
A Breakthrough Year in 2023
Tasic first entered Sine Negrense in 2023 with “Dalit sa Sala,” a social commentary produced by Dulaab Productions. The project stood out not only for its message but also for its ambitious execution, which involved a demanding two-day shoot aboard a moving bus.
Despite the logistical challenges, the film resonated strongly with viewers. “Dalit sa Sala” earned eight nominations, winning the People’s Choice Award and receiving a special citation for its compelling narrative, marking a confident and promising debut at the festival.
Creative Growth in 2024
Building on that momentum, Tasic was selected in 2024 as one of ten directors for the inaugural Bacolod Film Festival (BFF). Her short film “A Flower A Day” also competed in the Sine Negrense Open Category, signaling her expanding presence in Western Visayas cinema.
Set inside a worn-down café, the film tells the story of a young woman who visits daily, each time bringing a different flower—an act that quietly intrigues a local barista. The understated narrative allowed emotion and curiosity to bloom naturally.
“A Flower A Day” received eight nominations and won Best Musical Score at BFF 2024, further strengthening Tasic’s reputation as a filmmaker with a sensitive and thoughtful approach to storytelling.
Returning with “Isa ka Higayon” in 2025
In 2025, Tasic returned to Sine Negrense with “Isa ka Higayon,” competing in the Intercollegiate Category. Rooted deeply in Bacolod culture, the film explores themes of closure, grief, and the afterlife.
The story centers on Lola Sonia, a downtown Bacolod seamstress preparing for a chance to make peace with a loved one she lost. As her journey unfolds, uncertainty and longing begin to surface, raising a poignant question: when life finally offers closure, does it truly bring freedom—or a deeper yearning?
The film was recently screened at the Dinagyang edition of CineKasimanwa: The Western Visayas Film Festival at the FDCP Cinematheque Centre Iloilo, extending its reach beyond Negros and into a wider regional audience.
Rooted Stories, Genuine Experiences
For Tasic, filmmaking has always been more than a creative pursuit—it serves as a vessel for raw, genuine human experiences. Her journey began in senior high school at University of Negros Occidental–Recoletos, where she directed the award-winning short films “Piyesa” (2021) and “Litrato” (2022).
Today, she views her growing body of work as a reminder to reconnect with one’s roots and shine a light on the everyday realities of life in Negros. While pursuing a demanding degree in nursing, Tasic continues to tell stories that feel intimate, culturally grounded, and emotionally honest.
Celebrating Negrense Cinema
Sine Negrense, an annual celebration of local filmmaking, ran from December 3 to 6 at the FDCP Cinematheque Centre Negros, offering a platform for Negrense filmmakers to showcase their work. The festival’s awarding ceremony is tentatively scheduled to take place next month.
As Chelsea Tasic marks her third straight appearance at Sine Negrense, her journey stands as a hopeful and inspiring testament to what passion, perseverance, and local storytelling can achieve—on screen and beyond.
An Exclusive Film Event That Celebrates Human Connection
Ayala Malls Cinemas proudly unveils Rental Family, a moving cross-cultural drama-comedy starring Academy Award® winner Brendan Fraser, as part of its exclusive 2026 film lineup. Known as the go-to destination for premium and thoughtfully curated cinematic experiences, Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to champion films that inspire, comfort, and spark meaningful conversations—only on the big screen.
All the way from Tokyo, Rental Family arrives exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas, offering local audiences a rare opportunity to experience a globally celebrated story about chosen families, belonging, and empathy—magnified through immersive sights and sounds.
A Story That Resonates Across Cultures
Rental Family has touched hearts worldwide with its poignant yet uplifting exploration of human connection. Set in modern-day Tokyo, the film follows an American actor, Philip Vandarpleog (Brendan Fraser), who finds himself at a crossroads until he accepts an unconventional job at a Japanese “rental family” agency—portraying stand-in roles for strangers seeking companionship.
As scripted moments turn unexpectedly real, Philip forms genuine bonds that blur the line between performance and authenticity. Along the way, he confronts loneliness, isolation, humor, and emotional complexity—rediscovering purpose and the quiet beauty of belonging.
Cinema That Builds Empathy and Understanding
Writer-director HIKARI (Miyazaki Mitsuyo), best known for the critically acclaimed Netflix series Beef, shares her vision:
“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 philosophy mirrors Ayala Malls’ commitment to creating welcoming spaces where stories resonate deeply, allowing audiences to feel seen, understood, and comforted.
Brendan Fraser echoes this sentiment, saying, “Family is really who we include, rather than who we’re assigned to.” It’s a powerful reminder that family can be found in presence, connection, and love.
Why Watch It at Ayala Malls Cinemas
Watching Rental Family at Ayala Malls Cinemas elevates the experience. Patrons can enjoy:
High-quality visuals with sharper images that bring every emotion to life
Immersive audio powered by Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos
Plush seating with generous legroom for maximum comfort
Delicious treats from The Movie Snackbar, including must-have popcorn, burgers, hotdog sandwiches, and refreshing beverages
More than just a movie destination, Ayala Malls Cinemas offers a premium space to bond with family, friends, and colleagues—sharing moments that matter.
Film Synopsis
Set in modern-day Tokyo, Rental Family follows an American actor (Brendan Fraser) struggling to find purpose until he lands an unusual gig at a Japanese “rental family” agency. Playing stand-in roles for strangers, he gradually forms authentic connections that challenge his understanding of performance, morality, and belonging. Through these encounters, he rediscovers meaning, empathy, and the warmth of human connection.
Experience It Exclusively on the Big Screen
Unravel the many roles Philip plays in Rental Family, exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas starting January 21, 2026. Book tickets online at www.sureseats.com
For the latest updates, follow Ayala Malls Cinemas on Facebook and Instagram.
Every phone call echoes louder. Every shadow feels closer.
The nightmare that redefined horror is back.
Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group have officially released the brand-new poster and teaser video for Scream 7, setting the stage for the franchise’s most personal chapter yet. Opening only in cinemas on February 25, 2026, the film marks a powerful homecoming as Kevin Williamson, creator of Scream, returns to direct the latest installment.
A Teaser That Sends Shivers
The call no one wants to answer rings once more.
Watch the Teaser Video here:
Short, sharp, and deeply unsettling, the teaser delivers classic Scream tension with a modern edge. Familiar sounds trigger old fears, while haunting silences hint that Ghostface is closer than ever—and this time, the stakes feel devastatingly real.
A Poster That Signals a Reckoning
The newly unveiled poster places Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) front and center, surrounded by a compelling mix of returning characters and new faces. With Ghostface lurking in the background, the imagery speaks volumes: the past isn’t done, and survival comes at a cost.
Official Synopsis
When a new Ghostface killer terrorizes the quiet town where Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) has built a new life, her worst fears resurface as her daughter (Isabel May) becomes the next target. Forced to confront her darkest memories, Sidney fights to protect her family and stop the violence once and for all.
With its original creator guiding the story, Scream 7 blends emotional depth with relentless suspense. It’s a confident continuation that respects the franchise’s legacy while pushing the story into darker, more intimate territory. Familiar scares return, but the heart of the film lies in family, resilience, and the cost of never truly escaping fear.
Scream 7 opens only in cinemas on February 25, 2026.
Lightning flashes. Machines hum. A heartbeat begins.
From Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Maggie Gyllenhaal, The Bride! rises as a striking, rebellious reinvention of one of cinema’s most enduring myths. Written, directed, and produced by Gyllenhaal (The Lost Daughter), the film stars Golden Globe winner Jessie Buckley as The Bride and Academy Award winner Christian Bale as Frankenstein.
This is Frankenstein as you’ve never seen it before—restless, romantic, and roaring with cultural fire.
Watch the Official Trailer:
Love, Creation, and Chaos in 1930s Chicago
Set in the shadowy streets of 1930s Chicago, the story follows a lonely Frankenstein (Bale) on a desperate mission. Seeking connection, he turns to the brilliant and unorthodox Dr. Euphronious (five-time Oscar nominee Annette Bening) to create a companion.
Together, they resurrect a murdered young woman—and The Bride (Buckley) awakens.
What unfolds is thrillingly unpredictable: murder, possession, rebellion, and the birth of a radical cultural movement. Bound by desire yet driven by independence, The Bride becomes something far greater than her creators ever intended. Dangling between love and liberation, her journey ignites a wild, combustible romance that refuses to be contained.
A Cast and Creative Team That Commands Attention
Joining Buckley and Bale is an exceptional ensemble featuring Peter Sarsgaard, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Penélope Cruz. Behind the scenes, Gyllenhaal collaborates with a powerhouse team of acclaimed artists, including:
The Bride! opens internationally on March 4, 2026, and in North America on March 6, 2026, exclusively in theaters and IMAX. Distributed locally by Warner Bros Philippines.
She’s alive. She’s defiant. And she’s ready to be heard. #TheBrideMovie
A Full-Circle Moment for a Genre-Defining Franchise
More than two decades after redefining modern horror, Cillian Murphy and Danny Boyle found themselves side by side once again—this time at the world premiere of 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. Held at the BFI IMAX Theatre in London on January 16, the event marked a meaningful reunion that thrilled fans of the iconic 28 Days Later universe.
Left photo: Cillian Murphy strikes a pose at the world premiere of “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” | Right photo: Danny Boyle take a photo at the world premiere of “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple”
Murphy, who starred in the original 2002 film and now serves as an executive producer for the new trilogy, walked the red carpet with confidence. He joined the film’s cast, director Nia DaCosta, and writer-producer Danny Boyle, creating one of the night’s most talked-about moments.
Watch the Official Trailer
Get a glimpse of the terror and tension here:
A New Chapter, A Darker Future
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple serves as the second installment in the 28 Years Later trilogy, expanding the haunting world first envisioned by Alex Garland and Danny Boyle. With DaCosta at the helm, the film pushes the franchise into more unsettling and emotionally charged territory.
The story follows Dr. Kelson (played by Ralph Fiennes), whose shocking discovery places him at the center of events that could reshape the fate of humanity. Along the way, Spike (Alfie Williams) encounters the deeply disturbing cult leader Jimmy Crystal, portrayed with chilling intensity by Jack O’Connell. As their paths collide, the line between survival and belief becomes dangerously thin.
Director Nia DaCosta interacts with fans at the world premiere of “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple”
Now Showing in Philippine Cinemas
With its powerful performances, intense atmosphere, and fearless storytelling, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple proves the franchise still has sharp teeth. Horror fans in the Philippines can catch the latest chapter now, as the film is currently showing in cinemas nationwide. Distributed locally by Columbia Pictures PH.
If you’ve ever wondered what happens when cult horror collides with razor-sharp comedy and relentless action—well, wonder no more. The official trailer for “They Will Kill You” is here, and it’s a gloriously twisted invitation into a night of chaos, carnage, and crowd-pleasing mayhem.
Produced by horror hitmaker Andy Muschietti (It, It Chapter Two, Mama) and directed by Kirill Sokolov, this horror-action-comedy promises outrageous kills, fearless performances, and a wicked sense of humor that refuses to behave. Everyone is welcome at The Virgil—staying alive, however, is another story.
Watch the Official Trailer:
A One-Night Stay That Turns Into a Nightmare
From New Line Cinema and Nocturna, They Will Kill You unleashes a high-octane survival story centered on a young woman trapped overnight inside The Virgil, a sinister hideout run by a demonic cult with deadly intentions.
As the clock ticks forward, the rules disappear. What follows is a savage battle for survival filled with epic confrontations, audacious kills, and wickedly dark humor that keeps the tone thrilling rather than grim. Dangling between terror and comedy, the film leans into spectacle—bold, brazen, and unapologetically fun.
Zazie Beetz Leads a Fearless Ensemble
At the center of the chaos is Zazie Beetz (Joker, Invincible), delivering a powerful, magnetic performance that grounds the madness with grit and attitude. She’s joined by an impressive cast that adds personality and unpredictability to every turn:
Together, the ensemble elevates the film’s twisted energy, balancing tension, humor, and explosive action with surprising ease.
Crafted by a Team That Knows Horror
Behind the camera, Kirill Sokolov teams up with co-writer Alex Litvak to create a cinematic experience that thrives on escalation and surprise. Produced by Andy Muschiettii, Barbara Muschietti, and Dan Kagan, the film is backed by a creative crew built for controlled chaos:
Every frame reflects a confident blend of style and savagery, amplified by music supervision from Andrea von Foersterand casting by Richard Delia.
When and Where to Watch
New Line Cinema and Nocturna present They Will Kill You, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. The film opens internationally on March 25, 2026, with a North American theatrical release on March 27, 2026.
So go ahead—feed your curiosity. The cult is waiting, the doors are open, and The Virgil promises a night you won’t forget… assuming you make it out. #TheyWillKillYouMovie
Some legends refuse to rest. Others return changed. In Lee Cronin’s The Mummy, the past doesn’t just resurface—it unravels everything it touches.
Following the record-breaking success of Evil Dead Rise, acclaimed writer-director Lee Cronin reimagines one of horror’s most enduring myths with a sinister, emotionally charged twist. Produced by genre heavyweights James Wan, Jason Blum, and John Keville, this chilling new film opens exclusively in cinemas beginning April 15, 2026.
The young daughter of a journalist vanishes into the desert without a trace. Years stretch on. Hope fades. Then, eight years later, the impossible happens—she is found and returned to her family.
What should be a joyful, healing reunion slowly transforms into something far more disturbing. As strange behaviors surface and buried truths claw their way into the light, the family realizes the child who came back may not be the one who disappeared.
Ancient forces stir. Old curses awaken. And the nightmare begins.
Presented by New Line Cinema, Atomic Monster, and Blumhouse, this Wicked/Good Production reshapes a classic horror icon into something bold, unnerving, and deeply human.
A Legend Reborn for the Big Screen
Distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, Lee Cronin’s The Mummy opens only in theaters and IMAX® in North America on April 17, 2026, and internationally starting April 15, 2026.
Some things are meant to stay buried. This one refuses. #LeeCroninsTheMummy
