With just over a month to go before the highly awaited Korean series arrives on Disney+, its latest official trailer has already amassed more than 13 million views across YouTube and social media platforms within its first 48 hours.
To celebrate the impressive milestone, Disney+ Philippines is giving fans an even closer look at the Eastern Empire with an all-new special look featurette premiering exclusively on the streaming platform later today.
A Closer Look at the Stars and Story
Set to premiere on Disney+ at 3:00 PM Philippine Time, the featurette includes never-before-seen footage and fresh interviews with stars Shin Min-a, Ju Ji-hoon, Lee Jong-suk, and Lee Se-young.
The cast opens up about what first attracted them to The Remarried Empress and how they approached bringing the webtoon’s widely known characters to life on screen.
Behind the scenes, series director Cho Suwon, screenwriter Yeoh Geena, and members of the production team also offer viewers a fascinating glimpse at the series’ elaborate sets and costumes.
Among the production’s biggest challenges was finding locations that could capture the grandeur of the beloved source material. According to the team, 16 real-world castles across France, Germany, and the Czech Republic were scouted in search of a setting that could convincingly reflect the majesty of the original webtoon.
A Disney+ First for a Korean Original
The featurette also marks a notable milestone for Disney+.
Its release will be the first time a Korean Original has premiered a special look exclusively on the platform, highlighting the strong interest surrounding The Remarried Empress ahead of its November 4 debut.
And that excitement comes with good reason.
Based on the hit NAVER WEBTOON of the same name, which has accumulated close to three billion views to date, The Remarried Empress brings its sweeping tale of romance, betrayal, ambition, and power to live action.
Love, Power, and a Royal Marriage in Crisis
At the heart of the story is Empress Navier, a beloved ruler whose marriage to Emperor Sovieshu of the Eastern Empire begins to unravel.
As tensions rise throughout the kingdom, Sovieshu falls in love with a runaway slave and becomes determined to win her heart. Refusing to sacrifice her dignity, Navier agrees to the emperor’s request under one extraordinary condition: she must be allowed to remarry Heinrey, the rival Crown Prince of the Western Kingdom.
What follows is a dramatic story of love, desire, regret, and political intrigue, with the fate of an empire hanging in the balance as Navier fights to reclaim her power.
When Does The Remarried Empress Premiere?
The Remarried Empress premieres November 4 exclusively on Disney+ Philippines with its first four episodes.
Following the premiere, two new episodes will be released every Wednesday until the series finale on November 25.
Facebook has come a long way from its humble beginnings in a university dorm room. Today, it is a global corporate titan whose influence reaches into personal lives, public conversations, and international affairs.
That transformation becomes the heart of writer-director Aaron Sorkin’s The Social Reckoning, a high-stakes biographical thriller that revisits the world explored in The Social Network, this time from a dramatically different point in Facebook’s history.
The film centers on the unprecedented Facebook leak by whistleblower Frances Haugen, which exposed internal evidence about the social media platform’s algorithms and their potential effects on mental health, perceptions of reality, and democratic discourse.
The story was investigated by The Wall Street Journal reporter Jeff Horwitz and became widely known as The Facebook Files.
The Social Network was about how Facebook was invented. The Social Reckoning is about what social media has become, Sorkin says
Rather than serving as a direct sequel, The Social Reckoning works as a companion piece and a stand-alone story. This time, Facebook is no longer an ambitious startup finding its footing. It is a massive corporate institution making decisions capable of affecting millions of people.
Watch the trailer:
The real-life investigation behind “The Social Reckoning”
Sorkin found the inspiration for his new film after reading Frances Haugen’s The Power of One and Jeff Horwitz’s Broken Code, two books that examine the events surrounding one of Facebook’s biggest controversies.
The work of Haugen and Horwitz brought the company’s internal practices into public view, fueling investigations and conversations whose effects continue to be felt today.
When I came across those two books, suddenly there was a very dramatic story, says Sorkin.
I spent hours with Jeff and Frances, at first unsure of exactly what I was looking for. But as the script’s focus began to take shape, I was able to use my time with them more and more productively, looking for very specific answers to how they took on this investigation.
Their experiences gave Sorkin the foundation for a thriller built around information, risk, power, and two people willing to challenge one of the world’s most influential technology companies.
Mikey Madison and Jeremy Allen White take on Facebook
Together, the two find themselves confronting a corporation with extraordinary resources and global reach.
What interested me most about Frances is that so many people like her found a new lease on life from social media, a place where they could fully be who they are. She knows its potential first-hand, says Sorkin.
And then I saw Jeff as a stand-in for the audience, this guy who doesn’t get this world or its language and is learning what is happening inside it as he goes along.
That contrast gives audiences two different perspectives on an increasingly complicated digital world: one from someone who understands social media’s possibilities from within, and another from someone gradually discovering how the machinery works.
David Fincher remains connected to the story
While The Social Network director David Fincher is not behind the camera for The Social Reckoning, Sorkin says his former collaborator remained involved and supportive.
David read it right away and a couple of hours later, sent me an email that said, ‘This is nitroglycerin.’ He has been very supportive throughout and a real cheerleader of the movie, says Sorkin.
The new film therefore carries a connection to its acclaimed predecessor while allowing Sorkin to approach the material through his own directorial perspective.
A puzzle built across different timelines
For Sorkin, part of the excitement comes from gradually allowing audiences to understand how each piece of the story connects.
The movie has what I hope is a fun structure for the audience,” reflects Sorkin.
The different timelines put you on the edge of your seat and become a puzzle until you see all the connections. Then, in the third act you see Facebook with its hands on the levers and dials of public conversation at a crucial moment.
With its combination of corporate intrigue, journalism, technology, and real-world consequences, The Social Reckoningexplores how dramatically the social media landscape has changed since audiences first watched Facebook take shape in The Social Network.
This time, the question is no longer simply how Facebook began, but what happened after it became powerful enough to reshape the way the world communicates.
Ready for your weekly big screen fix? This week, theaters are serving up an exciting lineup that swings from superhero blockbusters and magical animated journeys to wilderness survival thrillers and palace romances. Whether you are looking for new Marvel footage in Avengers: Endgame Encore, local mythical adventures in Forgotten Island, rugged outdoor survival in Heart of the Beast, or sweet ancient court drama in Plump Blossom, this week’s lineup offers a fantastic mix for every moviegoer.
Here are the new movies opening in cinemas this week to add to your cinema plans:
Marvel Studios brings the massive crossover event back to theaters for a special theatrical engagement. Set five years after Thanos wiped out half of all life, the remaining heroes pull off a risky time-travel mission to restore the universe. This special re-release features exclusive extra footage and an exciting new teaser connecting directly to the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, making it a must-watch for dedicated MCU fans.
2026 • PG • 1h 48m ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY, FANTASY GET SHOWTIMES
Liza Soberano, H.E.R., and Dave Franco star in this vibrant animated feature celebrating Filipino folklore. During a farewell celebration, best friends Jo and Raissa step through a hidden portal onto Nakali, a realm filled with legendary creatures. To return home, they must defeat the fearsome Manananggal, voiced by Broadway legend Lea Salonga. However, escaping requires sacrificing their shared memories, pushing the pair into a race to save their home without forgetting each other.
(from left) Bungi (Manny Jacinto), Raww (Dave Franco), Raissa (Liza Soberano), Jo (H.E.R.) and Prince Mermahn (Kevin McCann) in DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island, directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado.
2026 • R-13 • 1h 41m ADVENTURE, THRILLER GET SHOWTIMES
Brad Pitt and J.K. Simmons lead this intense survival thriller set against a punishing wilderness. After a sudden plane crash leaves Special Forces officer James Belmont stranded in the frozen Alaskan backcountry, he must rely on his tactical training and his loyal combat dog, Odin. Together, the pair battle extreme weather and dangerous predators in a unrelenting fight to reach civilization.
2026 • G • 1h 25m ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, MUSIC GET SHOWTIMES
This charming animated feature blends culinary arts, hidden romance, and ancient royal traditions. Princess Ruo Hua dreams of a life beyond rigid court rules, secretly sneaking into the palace kitchens every night to master traditional cooking techniques. Her quiet life changes dramatically when she shelters a wounded general hiding within the complex. Through late-night meals and shared secrets, a powerful bond develops between the gentle princess and the brave warrior.
Puregold CinePanalo Brings Homegrown Stories to the Big Screen
There’s another reason to make a cinema trip this week, especially if you want to catch more local stories.
Image Source: Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2026 FB Page
The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival runs from September 23 to October 4 at Gateway Cineplex 18, TriNoma, Fairview Terraces, Ayala Malls Feliz, Ayala Malls Circuit, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, and Market! Market!
The festival is making homegrown Pinoy cinema more accessible, with regular tickets priced at only P250.
That makes this a good time to add a local film or two to your movie plans while discovering stories from Filipino filmmakers and creators.
What’s On Your Movie List This Week?
From Marvel superheroes and magical creatures to an Alaskan survival story and an animated royal adventure, this week’s new releases cover quite a range. Whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s a new movie ready for your next cinema run. Grab your favorite snacks, round up your barkadas, and secure your tickets for your next big-screen fix.
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!
Anne Hathaway steps into one of her most unsettling roles yet in Verity, the big-screen adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling psychological thriller. The film opens in Philippine cinemas on September 30.
Hathaway plays acclaimed author Verity Crawford, an enigmatic woman whose secrets pull a struggling writer into a dangerous web of ambition, attraction, and deception.
From Romance to Psychological Suspense
Director Michael Showalter previously worked with Hathaway on the film adaptation of The Idea of You. When it was time to cast the mysterious author at the heart of Verity, the Oscar-winning actress immediately came to mind.
Hathaway also serves as a producer on the film. She said she quickly understood the novel’s appeal after experiencing its page-turning momentum herself.
There’s so much propulsive energy to [Hoover’s] books, it’s like eating something really delicious and you can’t quite stop yourself. You just can’t, you want to get to the next page,” she explains. “When I came up for air at the end of it I thought, ‘Oh, I completely understand why people went crazy for this book.’
Watch the official trailer:
A Manuscript Filled With Disturbing Secrets
Verity follows Lowen Ashleigh (Dakota Johnson), a struggling writer hired to complete the unfinished books of celebrated author Verity Crawford.
Lowen moves into the Crawford family estate, where she discovers a collection of disturbing autobiographical notes written by Verity. The pages contain troubling claims involving Verity’s husband, Jeremy Crawford (Josh Hartnett), and raise questions about what truly happened inside their home.
As Lowen searches for answers, the boundaries between truth and fiction begin to disappear. She must determine who is manipulating whom while confronting her growing attraction to Jeremy and the career opportunity that brought her into the Crawfords’ lives.
Anne Hathaway Embraces Verity’s Complexity
Hartnett praised Hathaway’s thoughtful approach to playing his onscreen wife.
Annie is one of the most professional actors I’ve ever worked with, she’s very cerebral,” he says. “I find it comforting to be with someone who has a really clear idea of what they want to create with the character, but then she’s also fun, she wants to play as well.
Johnson was equally enthusiastic about working with Hathaway, both as a co-star and producer.
I’ve always been such a fan of hers and I loved working with her so much,” says Dakota Johnson. “We don’t really say much to each other onscreen, but in between takes we were always laughing and joking and having deep life talks. Or eating hot dogs – she had a hot dog cart brought to set one day, it was great.
Johnson added that Hathaway was committed to finding the strongest version of every scene.
She’s an incredible producer, and she’s always game to make sure we get the best version of the scene possible, she said.
Colleen Hoover Approves of the Casting
For Colleen Hoover, seeing Hathaway transform into Verity was a surreal experience.
She nailed it. Seeing all the different roles she’s playing and her range, I feel like this is a great movie to cap off the year of Anne Hathaway,” she says.
Hoover also revealed a personal connection to the actress.
The Princess Diaries is my husband’s favorite movie. He loves Anne Hathaway. I was so excited to tell him when she signed on, he and I still just feel like we pinch ourselves every day. It still feels surreal.
With Hathaway, Johnson, and Hartnett leading its tangled story of desire and deception, Verity invites audiences to question every confession and suspect every character.
September 12, 2026 marked a milestone for Philippine cinema as the country celebrated its first-ever National Cinema Day (NCD), welcoming moviegoers back to theaters and highlighting the enduring appeal of watching films on the big screen.
These are the moviegoers who continue to support theatrical releases, choose cinemas as a place to experience stories, and keep the shared tradition of moviegoing alive.
At its core, National Cinema Day was a celebration of cinema itself, along with the excitement, connection, and collective emotions that come with seeing a film inside a theater.
More Than 100 Cinemas Join the Nationwide Celebration
Spearheaded by CEAP, National Cinema Day brought together more than 100 participating cinemas across the Philippines.
CEAP also expressed its sincere appreciation to its government and industry partners, including the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) through the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).
Their support played an important role in making the nationwide initiative possible.
For just ₱100, audiences had the opportunity to watch films on the big screen, including current releases as well as selected previous and re-run titles.
Beyond making moviegoing more affordable, the celebration encouraged Filipinos to return to cinemas, reconnect with family and friends, and rediscover the simple joy of experiencing stories together.
A Strong Turnout Shows That Cinema Lives On
The strong turnout and public engagement throughout National Cinema Day served as an encouraging reminder of the continuing place of cinemas in Filipino entertainment and culture.
From the anticipation before the lights dim to the laughter, excitement, and emotions shared during a film, the celebration showed that audiences still value the communal experience that theaters uniquely provide.
The incredible response to National Cinema Day shows that cinema remains a vital part of Filipino culture. Seeing packed theaters, families and friends enjoying films together, and audiences embracing the big-screen experience reaffirmed the enduring appeal of moviegoing. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this event a success, and CEAP remains committed to developing more initiatives that support our industry and enrich the moviegoing experience, said Ms. Irene Jose, President of the Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP).
The celebration also arrived at an important time for the theatrical industry.
After facing major challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, cinemas have continued to navigate an entertainment landscape reshaped by changing viewing habits and the rapid growth of streaming services.
National Cinema Day offered a powerful reminder that the theatrical experience remains meaningful to Filipino audiences, and that people are still willing to come together to support films, cinemas, and the individuals who bring stories to the screen.
Industry and Artists Rally Behind National Cinema Day
The success of National Cinema Day also highlighted the importance of collaboration across the film and entertainment industry.
Cinema exhibitors, producers, distributors, government agencies, artists, media organizations, content creators, and other industry partners came together to support the celebration.
Among the personalities who showed their support were Anne Curtis, Bela Padilla, Barbie Forteza, Karylle, Sassa Gurl, Michael Sager, Anton Vinzon, and Mon Confiado, alongside other artists and cinema advocates who encouraged Filipinos to take part in National Cinema Day.
On the day of the celebration, Bela Padilla also joined moviegoers at different cinemas to show her support for the nationwide initiative.
More Than a Celebration of Movies
National Cinema Day was more than a celebration of films.
It was also a celebration of the people who make cinema possible, from the audiences who continue to fill theater seats to the many individuals working behind the scenes to keep the industry moving forward.
With the strong response to its inaugural edition, National Cinema Day opens new possibilities for initiatives that can bring audiences back to theaters and create more opportunities to celebrate the country’s love for movies.
And if its first year is any indication, Filipinos still know there is something special about watching a story unfold on a giant screen, surrounded by a community experiencing every laugh, thrill, gasp, and heartfelt moment together.
Here’s to more National Cinema Days and more unforgettable moments at the movies.
As CEAP put it:
Together, we celebrated cinema. Together, we strengthened the future of moviegoing in the Philippines.
Resident Evil is making its mark at the Philippine box office, closing its opening weekend at No. 1 and setting a new local record for the long-running horror franchise.
Zach Cregger’s reinvention of the beloved video game property earned more than PHP 77 million during its opening weekend, making it the biggest Resident Evil opening weekend in the Philippines.
“Resident Evil” dominates the Philippine box office
The horror film commanded cinemas over the weekend, capturing 72% of the market share.
Fans of the original Resident Evil video games, followers of Cregger’s work, and horror enthusiasts flocked to theaters to catch the filmmaker’s latest offering. Cregger previously directed the acclaimed horror films Barbarian and Weapons.
Adding to its strong debut, Resident Evil has earned a 96% Certified Fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes, along with a 91% audience score.
With its mix of survival horror, action, and a fresh story set within the Resident Evil universe, the film offers moviegoers a new nightmare built for the big screen.
Watch the official trailer here:
A terrifying new take on “Resident Evil”
From visionary filmmaker Zach Cregger comes a thrilling and terrifying reinvention of the Resident Evil franchise.
The all-new story follows Bryan, played by Austin Abrams, a medical courier who unwittingly finds himself trapped in an action-packed race for survival. What begins as another night quickly descends into horrifying chaos, forcing Bryan to fight his way through an increasingly dangerous ordeal.
The cast also includes Zach Cherry, Kali Reis, and Paul Walter Hauser.
Produced by TriStar Pictures, Constantin Film, and Davis Films, Resident Evil opened in theaters on September 18, 2026. Distributed locally by Columbia Pictures PH.
Now showing in Philippine cinemas
Resident Evil is now showing in Philippine cinemas, including IMAX and 4DX.
The Kardashian-Jenner family is entering another era, and this time, change appears to be the main character.
Disney+ has released the official trailer and key art for Season 8 of The Kardashians, offering a glimpse at what is next for Kris Jenner, Kourtney Kardashian Barker, Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, and Kylie Jenner.
The new season premieres Thursday, October 8, on Disney+ Philippines. Seasons 1 to 7 are currently available to stream on the platform.
A Season Built Around Change
After years of major career moves, headline-making relationships, and family milestones, Season 8 shifts the focus toward what happens when the Kardashian-Jenners begin asking what comes next.
This time around, love, reinvention, healing, and independence take center stage.
The new episodes will follow the family as they continue growing their businesses while navigating changes in their personal lives. Unexpected sparks and new relationships enter the picture, but so do old wounds, difficult conversations, and moments of reflection.
For a family whose lives have long unfolded in public, the latest season appears set to explore a more personal kind of transformation.
Love Takes Different Forms in Season 8
Romantic relationships may grab attention, but The Kardashians Season 8 is also putting the spotlight on love in a wider sense.
That includes family bonds, self-love, personal growth, and the freedom to redefine what happiness looks like.
As Kris, Kourtney, Kim, Khloé, Kendall, and Kylie move through different stages of their lives, the season will examine how each of them responds to change while remaining closely connected as a family.
The result looks to be a mix of familiar Kardashian-Jenner glamour and more introspective moments as they embrace a fresh chapter.
The Kardashian-Jenners Continue to Evolve
Over the years, viewers have watched the family expand businesses, build brands, raise families, and navigate some of their most personal experiences in front of the camera.
Season 8 continues that story while placing greater emphasis on reinvention.
Kim, Khloé, Kourtney, Kendall, Kylie, and Kris are each entering different phases of their careers and personal lives, giving the new season plenty of room to explore shifting priorities and changing relationships.
And while the family has never been short on major moments, the latest trailer suggests that some of the season’s most compelling scenes may come from quieter realizations about identity, independence, and connection.
Who Stars in The Kardashians Season 8?
The Kardashians stars Kris Jenner, Kourtney Kardashian Barker, Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, and Kylie Jenner.
Behind the scenes, Fulwell Entertainment partner Ben Winston serves as executive producer alongside Danielle King, Emma Conway, Elizabeth Jones, and Erin Foye.
Kris Jenner, Kourtney Kardashian Barker, Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, and Kylie Jenner also serve as executive producers.
Viewers who want to revisit earlier family dramas, milestones, and unforgettable moments can stream Seasons 1 to 7 now on Disney+.
With relationships changing, personal priorities shifting, and a new chapter beginning, Season 8 is shaping up to be another revealing look at how one of pop culture’s most recognizable families continues to evolve.
Some stories hit hard before a single frame is even filmed. For director David Ayer, Heart of the Beast was one of them.
The filmmaker behind Fury and End of Watch knew almost immediately that Cameron Alexander’s screenplay was something he wanted to bring to the big screen.
Director David Ayer and Brad Pitt on the set of Heart of the Beast Photo credit: Paramount Pictures
It was simply one of the best pieces of writing I’d ever seen,” he says of the screenplay written by Cameron Alexander. “It didn’t just make me cry; it made me ugly cry. I’d have to stop and process a little bit, then start reading a few more pages.
Brad Pitt and Odin Face the Ultimate Fight for Survival
Known for kinetic, hard-edged stories about brotherhood, loyalty, and perseverance, Ayer found those same themes at the heart of the relationship between Sergeant Major James Belmont, played by Brad Pitt, and canine commando Odin.
Odin is portrayed by real dogs led by Uber, a majestic German Shepherd weighing more than 100 pounds.
In Heart of the Beast, Special Forces officer James Belmont and his combat dog are stranded deep in the Alaskan wilderness following a harrowing plane crash. With no easy way out, the two must battle brutal conditions and push themselves to their limits to survive.
But beyond the danger, the film explores something deeply emotional: the unbreakable bond between two partners who refuse to abandon each other.
Watch the trailer here:
After surviving the unsurvivable in Iraq and Afghanistan, they face yet another challenge together,” says Ayer of Belmont and Odin.
In my mind, James had made the dog a promise, something like, ‘If we survive this, I’m going to take you fishing.’ There’s something magnetic about being stranded in the wilderness. We’ve all been cold. We’ve all been lost. We’ve all been hungry.
For Ayer, that universally recognizable fear helps make the story personal.
This film takes audiences on that journey and makes them wonder, could I survive this? But it’s also the story of devoted partners that never give up on each other, that care more about each other’s safety than their own and who would sacrifice themselves for the other in a heartbeat.
An Action-Adventure Story With Plenty of Heart
Oscar-winning La La Land director Damien Chazelle and producer Olivia Hamilton were equally drawn to the screenplay’s straightforward but powerful premise.
The simplicity of the script and its description of man versus wilderness grabbed us,” says Hamilton. “It didn’t try to be complicated, and it spoke to a broad audience. Yes, it’s an action and adventure movie, but there’s also a ton of heart.
That emotional core came from an intensely personal place for screenwriter Cameron Alexander.
Brad Pitt and German Shepherd Uber in Heart of the Beast Photo credit: Paramount Pictures
His longtime love of the outdoors and fascination with military culture helped inspire the film, particularly the relationship between Special Forces personnel and the combat dogs trained to serve alongside them.
Those guys are incredible,” he says. “During America’s most recent wars, they were joined by combat dogs capable of incredible tasks.
Alexander became especially interested in what happens after their service ends.
There hasn’t been a tale focusing on what happens to the soldiers or the dogs when they get out of the military. I became fascinated with their stories and I thought it could be a really unique portrayal of the PTSD they both can suffer from.
A Story Inspired by a Beloved Dog
Behind the military and survival elements is another source of inspiration: Alexander’s own dog, Hoss.
I wrote it at a difficult moment in my life,” Alexander says. “At the time, I felt like my only real friend was my dog Hoss. There was no complicated calculus. I just wanted to write about my dog.
German Shepherd Uber and Brad Pitt in Heart of the Beast Photo credit: Paramount Pictures
While Hoss was experiencing serious health problems, Alexander devoted his resources to caring for him. Then, shortly after Hoss passed away, an opportunity arrived that would change Alexander’s life.
Right when he passed away, Olivia and Damien came into my life. I felt like I took care of Hoss and, after his death, he took care of me. He made my dreams come true.
It is that relationship that helped shape the film’s central message.
So I hope the audience takes away the message to keep fighting for the things that you love and to never give up. That’s the core of the film.
Brad Pitt Calls It a Love Story
For Pitt, the relationship between Belmont and Odin ultimately pushes Heart of the Beast beyond the familiar boundaries of a wilderness survival thriller.
For me, this was a love story above and beyond a survival story,” he says. “And my hope is that that’s felt and that that’s experienced.
With a dangerous wilderness, an intense fight for survival, and the powerful connection between a soldier and his canine partner at its center, Heart of the Beast promises an emotional big-screen adventure for dog lovers and thriller fans alike.
Zach Cregger’s Resident Evil stormed Philippine cinemas with a monstrous PHP 10,427,530 nationwide on its first day, marking the biggest opening day for the Resident Evil franchise in the Philippines.
Adding another win to its opening-day haul, the film also dethroned Insidious: Out of the Further, ending the horror title’s four-week streak as the biggest film in the country.
For horror fans ready to experience the terror for themselves, watch the official trailer here:
Critics Are Raving About “Resident Evil”
The new Resident Evil is not only making noise at the box office. Critics are also showering the film with praise.
The movie currently boasts a 97% Certified Fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes, with the critics deeming:
Not only are some calling this easily the best Resident Evil movie, but also one of the best films based on a video game ever.
The Wrap calls Resident Evil “Zach Cregger’s best film” yet, writing:
An incredible movie, Austin Abrams is an incredible leading man, and Zach Cregger cements his credibility as a modern master of horror.
Meanwhile, Deadline praises Austin Abrams’ performance, describing the film as his “star-is-born breakout role.”
Nerdist also highlights how Cregger captures the spirit of the original video games, writing:
“Zach Cregger’s Resident Evil is like watching what it feels like to play a video game.”
One Terrifying Night Begins
From the mind of visionary filmmaker Zach Cregger, the director behind Weapons and Barbarian, comes a thrilling and terrifying reinvention of the iconic Resident Evil franchise.
Set within an all-new story, Resident Evil follows Bryan, played by Austin Abrams, a medical courier who unwittingly finds himself trapped in a relentless race for survival. As one horrifying night spirals into chaos, Bryan must fight his way through an increasingly dangerous nightmare where survival is anything but guaranteed.
Packed with tension, action, and chilling surprises, the film brings a fresh perspective to the long-running survival-horror franchise while paying tribute to the atmosphere that made the original games unforgettable.
“Resident Evil” Is Now Showing in Philippine Cinemas
Get ready for one heart-stopping night.
Resident Evil is now showing in Philippine cinemas, including IMAX and 4DX.
From TriStar Pictures, Constantin Film, and Davis Films, Resident Evil opens nationwide on September 18, 2026. Distributed locally by Columbia Pictures PH.
Japanese cinema is set to light up screens across the country once again.
The Japanese Film Festival (JFF) 2026 returns to the Philippines from October 1 to November 29, 2026, bringing together acclaimed films, timeless classics, animation, Kabuki performances, filmmaker conversations, and special cultural experiences for audiences in several cities.
Presented by The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM), this year’s festival carries the theme “Shared Treasure. Shared Stories.” It reflects the way films, traditions, memories, and everyday human experiences can create connections that go beyond borders and generations.
Adding even more significance to this year’s celebration, JFF 2026 also marks the 70th Anniversary of the Normalization of Philippine-Japan Diplomatic Relations and the 30th Anniversary of The Japan Foundation, Manila.
Together, these milestones place friendship, cultural exchange, and shared storytelling at the heart of the festival.
JFF 2026 Heads to Eight Venues Nationwide
Japanese film fans outside Metro Manila will have plenty to look forward to.
In partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Cinema, JFF 2026 will be staged across eight venues in six cities, giving more Filipino audiences the chance to experience the range and richness of Japanese filmmaking.
The festival schedule is as follows:
The festivities officially begin with the JFF 2026 Opening Event on October 1 at the Ground Floor of Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall.
KOKUHO Opens the Festival With a Powerful Kabuki Story
Leading this year’s lineup is KOKUHO, the festival’s opening film.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker LEE Sang-il, KOKUHO is set against the demanding and deeply rooted world of Kabuki. At its center is a sweeping story of ambition, friendship, rivalry, family, and sacrifice.
The film made its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival before earning major recognition at the 49th Japan Academy Film Prize. Among its honors were Picture of the Year, Director of the Year for LEE Sang-il, and Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role for YOSHIZAWA Ryo.
LEE Sang-il’s celebrated film Hula Girls is also part of the JFF 2026 lineup, giving audiences another opportunity to experience the director’s work on the big screen.
From Kurosawa to Ghibli, the Lineup Has Plenty to Discover
JFF 2026 features a curated selection of 16 films, spanning contemporary cinema, classics, animation, and audience-friendly crowd-pleasers.
Among the standout titles is KUROSAWA Akira’s Throne of Blood, one of the legendary director’s most enduring works.
Anime fans, meanwhile, can revisit Studio Ghibli’s beloved Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, directed by MIYAZAKI Hayao.
The lineup also includes UNDER NINJA, starring YAMAZAKI Kento, and YAMADA Yoji’s TOKYO TAXI, alongside several other titles showcasing different sides of Japanese storytelling.
Whether you are drawn to drama, animation, period films, or contemporary stories, this year’s program is designed to offer something different with every screening.
Cinema Kabuki Takes Center Stage
One of JFF 2026’s most exciting attractions is Cinema Kabuki, a special presentation that brings the beauty, spectacle, and theatrical tradition of Kabuki to the cinema screen.
During the opening weekend, audiences can watch Renjishi (The Father and Son Shishi Lions), directed by YAMADA Yoji.
The experience does not stop with the screening.
Festivalgoers can also take part in special Kabuki activities, including a Kabuki Costume Dressing Demonstration on October 2 and a “Kumadori” Body-Painting Experience on October 3.
These programs are part of the JFF Discover Kabuki Tour, presented with the cooperation of Shochiku Co., Ltd.
For audiences encountering Kabuki for the first time, the activities offer an engaging introduction to one of Japan’s most recognizable theatrical traditions.
Nausicaä Day Is a Treat for Ghibli and Kabuki Fans
Another major highlight arrives on November 28 with Nausicaä Day.
The special presentation begins with Studio Ghibli’s Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, followed by two Cinema Kabuki screenings inspired by MIYAZAKI Hayao’s original manga.
Audiences can watch KABUKI “KAZE NO TANI NO NAUSICAÄ: Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” Part 1 and Part 2, a stage adaptation that expands on the world beyond what was shown in the animated film.
Featuring episodes not depicted in the movie, the production combines elaborate stagecraft, dynamic action, and traditional Kabuki performance to bring Nausicaä’s world to life in a completely different form.
Both parts will be screened in stereo sound.
For longtime Ghibli fans, this is a rare chance to experience one beloved story through two distinctly Japanese art forms.
A Special Program Puts International Collaboration in Focus
JFF 2026 is also teaming up with the Agency for Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan and the Japan Film Commission for “Journey through Japan on Screen in Manila 2026.”
The special program takes place on November 21 and 22 and highlights cross-cultural exchange through film.
Among its featured titles are Jaime Pacena II’s Kono Basho and HAYAKAWA Chie’s RENOIR.
Younger audiences can also look forward to films such as AYABE Shinya’s School Meals Time: School Excursion Inferno and SUZUKI Kei’s anime feature You, Fireworks, and Our Promise.
The program adds another layer to the festival by showing how Japanese cinema can open conversations about place, identity, youth, and collaboration across cultures.
Filmmaker Talks, Workshops, and Exclusive Festival Freebies
JFF 2026 is not only about sitting down for a movie.
Selected screenings will be followed by talkback sessions featuring directors and producers, giving audiences a closer look at the ideas, challenges, and creative choices behind the films.
There will also be festival activation campaigns throughout the run, where participants can score freebies and have the chance to win exclusive JFF 2026 merchandise.
With screenings, workshops, cultural activities, and filmmaker conversations in the mix, the festival turns a trip to the cinema into a fuller celebration of Japanese culture.
A Celebration of Stories Shared Across Borders
For decades, the Japanese Film Festival has served as a gateway for Filipino audiences to discover stories from Japan.
This year, that role feels especially fitting.
As the Philippines and Japan commemorate 70 years of normalized diplomatic relations, and The Japan Foundation, Manila celebrates three decades in the country, JFF 2026 places shared experiences at the center of its biggest attractions.
From Kurosawa classics and Studio Ghibli animation to Kabuki traditions and contemporary films, the festival brings different generations of Japanese storytelling together in one nationwide celebration.
JFF 2026 is made possible through the support of the Embassy of Japan, SM Supermalls and SM Cinema, JTI Philippines, Agency for Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan, Japan Film Commission, and Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP).
For the full screening schedule, ticketing guidelines, venue information, workshops, and talkback sessions, visit japanesefilmfestph.jfmo.org.ph.
