The wait is finally over! The most anticipated chaotic duo is about to return to the big screen, bringing mayhem and madness along with them. Tickets for “Joker: Folie à Deux” are now available, and you don’t want to miss this haunting sequel starring Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix and global music icon Lady Gaga. The film opens in cinemas on October 2, so mark your calendars!
A Musical Twist to Madness
At this year’s CinemaCon, Joker director Todd Phillips teased what makes this sequel even more intriguing. “It’s a film where music is an essential element,” Phillips shared. “Arthur [Fleck]’s weird and aloof and all these things, but he has music in him. He has a grace to him. That informed a lot of the dancing in the first film… it didn’t feel like that big of a step here. It’s different, but I think it’ll make sense when you see it.”
Phillips hinted that this film pushes Arthur Fleck’s character even further as the Joker explores not only madness but also music. Lady Gaga joins the film in a significant role, bringing her musical prowess into a world filled with chaos and tragedy.
Love and Madness Collide
Set against the chilling backdrop of Arkham Asylum, Joker: Folie à Deux dives into the fractured mind of Arthur Fleck as he awaits trial for his notorious crimes. Caught between his Joker persona and his fading grip on reality, Arthur stumbles into an unexpected romance that shapes his journey. With music as a driving force in the narrative, fans are eager to see how this love story intertwines with the Joker’s inevitable descent.
Save the Date: October 2
Make sure you’ve got your tickets ready! Joker: Folie à Deux distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, will premiere exclusively in cinemas on October 2. With its dark allure, gripping performances, and musical elements, this is one cinematic experience you won’t want to miss.
Secure your seat and get ready for an unforgettable ride! Get your tickets here.
“Veteran,” the 2015 Korean blockbuster that redefined detective action, returns with its highly anticipated sequel, “I, The Executioner.” Set to deliver more intense thrills, this film follows veteran detective Seo Do-cheol (Hwang Jung-min) as he takes on a ruthless serial killer threatening the nation. Alongside him is rookie officer Park Sun-woo (Jung Hae-in), who brings new energy to the investigation.
Since its release in Korea on September 13, “I, The Executioner” has claimed the No. 1 spot at the box office, amassing over four million admissions in just six days.
A Thrilling Continuation: Detective Seo Do-cheol Returns
Director Ryoo Seung-wan, who helmed the original “Veteran,” returns to bring fans a deeper dive into the psyche of Detective Seo Do-cheol. Ryoo shared his long-time passion for the character, stating, “My affection for Seo Do-cheol has only grown, and I always wanted to explore more of his story.” The veteran detective is back to take on a bigger, more ominous threat—a serial killer who has plunged Korea into fear and uncertainty.
Hwang Jung-min’s Passion for Detective Seo Do-cheol
Hwang Jung-min, who recently won Best Actor at the Baeksang Arts Awards for “12.12: The Day,” eagerly reprises his iconic role as Seo Do-cheol. Reflecting on his return, Hwang shared, “I have sincerely wanted a sequel since we filmed ‘Veteran’ and have been waiting for a long time. Even though it’s been nine years, I hope that audiences would feel that Seo Do-chul hasn’t changed. I wanted to maintain the energy from the first film as much as possible.”
Enter Rookie Detective Park Sun-woo: A New Perspective
Joining the action-packed drama is rising star Jung Hae-in, who plays rookie detective Park Sun-woo. Park is inspired by Seo Do-cheol’s past heroics, making it his mission to serve alongside the seasoned detective. Jung describes his character as grounded in reality, stating, “In a way, the film contains a lot of realistic stories. I think it’s a movie that allows us to think about various things,” highlighting the film’s reflection of contemporary issues.
Themes That Hit Close to Home: The Harmful Influence of Media
“I, The Executioner” explores timely issues such as the dangers of dopamine-driven media, fake news, and the manipulation of public perception. Through these narratives, the film reflects the harmful duality of modern media, where algorithms dictate our realities.
Art director Han Ah-reum remarks, “‘I, the Executioner’ depicts the duality and harm of the media. Director Ryoo Seung-wan addresses the social issues of our time through his signature strength that is action.” Expect a more serious and darker exploration of crime as this sequel delves into the evolving world of digital misinformation.
Mark Your Calendar: “I, The Executioner” Opens in Philippine Cinemas on September 25
“I, The Executioner,” distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, is set to hit Philippine theaters on September 25. Get ready to witness an action-packed, socially relevant sequel that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Don’t miss out on this heart-pounding crime drama from CJ ENM!
Get ready for an exciting lineup of new movies hitting theaters this week! From the highly anticipated Transformers One and the heart-pounding thriller Never Let Go to the magical return of Coraline in Remastered 3D and Jung Kook’s inspiring journey in I Am Still, there’s something for everyone. Plus, don’t miss the epic crossover event in Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide. Whether you’re into action, animation, or documentaries, these fresh releases are perfect for your next movie night. Here’s a quick look at what you can watch this week!
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
Discover the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, two of the most iconic figures in the Transformers universe. Before they became mortal enemies, they were once like brothers, bound by a shared vision for Cybertron. But as their paths diverge, what started as friendship turns into a bitter rivalry that will forever change their planet’s fate. “Transformers One” brings you back to where it all began, blending action-packed sequences with heartfelt moments that dive into the complex relationship between these two legendary characters. If you’re a fan of the Transformers franchise, this one is a must-watch as it takes a deeper look into the backstory of your favorite robots in disguise. With a star-studded cast, including Chris Hemsworth as the voice of Optimus Prime, this action-packed adventure is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
In “Never Let Go,” a chilling force takes over the world just beyond the safety of one family’s home. A mother and her twin sons are left to face this dark entity with nothing but the strength of their familial bond and the walls that protect them. Halle Berry leads this horror-thriller as the courageous mother who will stop at nothing to protect her children from the malevolent forces closing in. Prepare for an intense experience with this film that combines elements of psychological suspense and supernatural horror. The tension builds as secrets unravel and the danger escalates, making this a perfect pick for those who love nail-biting thrillers.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 40 mins ANIMATION, FAMILY, FANTASY BUY TICKETS
The beloved stop-motion film “Coraline” is back—this time in remastered 3D! Follow the curious 11-year-old Coraline as she explores her new home and discovers a hidden door that leads to an alternate version of her life. At first, the new world seems perfect, but soon Coraline realizes that it comes with a terrifying price. She must decide whether to stay in the fantasy or return to her real life. “Coraline” has captured the hearts of both kids and adults since its original release, and now it’s more immersive than ever. With stunning visuals and an eerie yet captivating story, this is a great choice for a family movie night, especially for those who enjoy a touch of spooky fantasy.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 33 mins DOCUMENTARY, MUSIC BUY TICKETS
Fans of BTS are in for a treat with “Jung Kook: I Am Still,” a documentary that follows Jung Kook’s journey to global stardom with his debut solo album, *GOLDEN*. Featuring exclusive interviews, concert footage, and never-before-seen clips, the film offers a glimpse into the life and career of one of the world’s biggest pop stars. Watch as Jung Kook opens up about his struggles, achievements, and the unwavering support of ARMY. This documentary is a must-see for BTS fans and music lovers alike. It’s a rare opportunity to witness Jung Kook’s growth as an artist and the challenges he overcame to reach the pinnacle of global success.
Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, “Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide” tells the story of Stella, a woman who returns to her hometown after 30 years. As a child, she witnessed her father disappear in a mysterious forest, and now, decades later, she receives a call from him asking for her help. The plot thickens when Stella uncovers the secret of the Taklee Genesis, a teleportation experiment conducted at a nearby military research station. With a mix of historical intrigue and sci-fi elements, this film offers a unique storyline that takes viewers on a thrilling ride. It’s perfect for those who love action-packed adventures with a touch of mystery and science fiction.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:
Ever wondered what could go wrong on a seemingly perfect weekend getaway? Speak No Evil explores that terrifying possibility. When an American family is invited to spend a weekend at the country estate of a British couple they befriended on vacation, things quickly take a sinister turn. What starts as a dream holiday soon morphs into a twisted psychological nightmare, testing trust, boundaries, and fear. With standout performances from James McAvoy and Mackenzie Davis, this film is bound to send chills down your spine.
Get ready to say his name three times, because Beetlejuice is back! In “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” the Deetz family returns to the hauntingly familiar Winter River after a family tragedy. Lydia Deetz (played by Winona Ryder) is now a mother, and it’s her rebellious daughter, Astrid (Jenna Ortega), who stumbles upon the mysterious model of the town hidden in the attic. When Astrid accidentally opens the portal to the Afterlife, chaos ensues as the mischievous Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) is unleashed once again. This film promises a wild mix of humor, fantasy, and a bit of horror—perfect for a nostalgic trip down memory lane, with a fresh twist for new audiences.
2024 • R-16 • 2 hrs 7 mins ACTION, COMEDY, SCIENCE FICTION GET SHOWTIMES
This week’s movie releases bring a fantastic variety, from explosive action to chilling horror, and even nostalgic animation in 3D. Whether you’re a fan of heart-pounding thrillers, animated classics, or behind-the-scenes documentaries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, gather your friends, head to the nearest cinema, and get ready to be entertained. Which movie are you most excited to watch? Share your thoughts and let us know!
What happens when death becomes your 9-to-5? From Bong Joon Ho, the visionary behind the Academy Award-winning film Parasite, comes Mickey 17 —a sci-fi thriller set to hit theaters on January 29, 2025. Robert Pattinson stars in this epic tale alongside Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo.
Written and directed by Bong Joon Ho, Mickey 17 promises to be yet another masterpiece from the director who captivated audiences worldwide with his unique blend of dark humor, social commentary, and thrilling storytelling. This time, Bong brings us into the world of Mickey Barnes, portrayed by Robert Pattinson, a man whose job requires him to die—and come back—over and over again.
Based on Edward Ashton’s novel Mickey 17, this film follows the story of Mickey Barnes, an “expendable”—a disposable employee sent on deadly missions on a distant ice planet to benefit humanity. But this time, Mickey isn’t willing to disappear quietly. Expect a gripping narrative filled with mind-bending twists, intense action, and existential questions about life, survival, and identity.
A Star-Studded Cast and Award-Winning Team
Robert Pattinson (The Batman, Tenet) leads the cast as the titular Mickey, delivering what is expected to be a career-defining performance. He’s joined by Naomi Ackie (Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker), Steven Yeun (Nope), Toni Collette (Hereditary), and Mark Ruffalo (Poor Things), making this ensemble cast one of the most exciting of 2025.
The film’s production team is just as impressive, with Oscar-winning producersDede Gardner and Jeremy Kleiner (Moonlight, 12 Years a Slave) and Bong Joon Ho himself producing. Behind the camera, Oscar-nominated cinematographerDarius Khondji (Bardo, Okja) captures the visually stunning world of Mickey 17, while Oscar-nominated production designerFiona Crombie (The Favourite, Cruella) builds it. The film is edited by Oscar nomineeYang Jinmo (Parasite), ensuring the seamless, immersive storytelling for which Bong Joon Ho is known.
Rounding out the creative team is visual effects supervisor Dan Glass (Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore), who ensures the film’s cutting-edge sci-fi visuals, and costume designer Catherine George (Okja, Snowpiercer), whose work will bring Mickey’s icy world to life.
A Story of Survival and Rebellion
At its core, Mickey 17 is a story about human resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. How far would you go to survive? And when does survival turn into rebellion? Pattinson’s Mickey will grapple with these questions as he fights against the system that sees him as nothing more than a replaceable cog in the machine.
Don’t Miss Mickey 17 – In Cinemas January 29, 2025
Warner Bros. Pictures proudly presents Mickey 17, a collaboration between Plan B Entertainment, Offscreen Production, and Kate Street Picture Company. Experience this groundbreaking film from Bong Joon Ho, only in cinemas starting January 29, 2025. Mark your calendars, and prepare for a cinematic journey like no other!
Get ready for an adventure like no other as “Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide” takes you on a thrilling ride through time and space! This highly anticipated Thai sci-fi epic follows the journey of Stella (Paula Taylor) as she returns to her rural hometown and reconnects with her father, who mysteriously vanished 30 years ago. With the help of the “Taklee Genesis” transporter, Stella, her daughter Valen (Nina Nutthatcha Padovan), and her childhood friends embark on a mission to bring him back, crossing timelines and encountering otherworldly forces along the way.
Stella (Paula Taylor) – The Fearless Protagonist Paula Taylor plays Stella, a woman torn between caring for her ailing mother and discovering the truth about her father’s disappearance. Her father’s fate is revealed when she stumbles upon the “Taklee Genesis” transporter, leading her on a perilous journey across dimensions. Drawn to the film by director Chookiat “Matthew” Sakveerakul’s immense passion, Taylor recalls, “He was just so intuitive in the way he was telling his vision and just everything. He was so passionate, and I told him ‘You know what I want? To be a part of your passion. I wanna be in whatever you’ve seen,’” she says.
Ithi (Peter Corp Dyrendal) – The Dreamer Turned Adventurer Peter Corp Dyrendal steps into the role of Ithi, a humble schoolteacher with a longing to become an archaeologist. His dreams become reality when his friend Stella unlocks the secrets of the “Taklee Genesis.” Dyrendal was immediately hooked by the project’s fresh concept. “I don’t think there’s ever been a movie like this in Thailand before. It’s a sci-fi project that includes time travels, monsters and a lot of challenges, a lot of computer graphics. I know it’s a very enticing project,” he says.
Kong (War Wanarat) – The Mysterious Resident War Wanarat portrays Kong, a local from Ban Don Hai with a perplexing secret—he appears not to have aged since Stella last saw him 30 years ago. Though Kong has no recollection of his childhood, his father fiercely protects any information about it. As a sci-fi enthusiast, War was thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking project. He shared his excitement, “I was over the moon. When Matthew first contacted me and mentioned the word ‘sci-fi,’ I told my manager, ‘Let’s do it!’ My team then said, ‘Calm down! Let’s look at the script and contract first, shall we?’ and I was like, ‘I’ve got to. I’ve just gotta be in this film.’”
Valen (Nina Nutthatcha Padovan) – The Brave Daughter Nina Nutthatcha Padovan plays Valen, Stella’s courageous daughter who joins the mission to rescue her grandfather. Valen’s bravery shines through in the film’s most intense scenes, including one unforgettable moment. “The fun part of this movie was the running. When it had dead people falling from the sky, that was so much fun, but it was scary at the same time.”
Experience the Journey of a Lifetime
“Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide” promises an extraordinary blend of action, time travel, and breathtaking CGI that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Don’t miss out on this groundbreaking film as it arrives in Philippine cinemas on September 18! Get ready to immerse yourself in this world of sci-fi wonder and heart-pounding adventure.
Join the conversation and share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #TakleeGenesis!
From the visionary director of the beloved anime series “K-On!,” Naoko Yamada brings another heartwarming masterpiece to life with her latest film, “The Colors Within.” Set to open in the Philippines on October 23, this beautifully crafted anime film invites viewers to embark on an unforgettable journey of friendship, music, and the vibrant emotions that color our world.
A Vibrant Tale of Friendship
At the heart of “The Colors Within” is Totsuko, an ordinary high school student with an extraordinary gift—she can see the colors of people’s emotions. These colors help her understand the inner worlds of those around her, each hue representing a unique feeling. But her favorite color belongs to her classmate Kimi, who exudes a beautiful shade that resonates deeply with Totsuko.
As their bond strengthens, Totsuko, Kimi, and a quiet but talented classmate named Rui form a band. Their shared love for music becomes the canvas on which they paint their emotional journeys, creating melodies that reflect their deepest thoughts and connections.
A Global Sensation
“The Colors Within” first captivated audiences when it made its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France. Critics praised its emotional depth, captivating animation, and enchanting musical score. It was quickly recognized as a standout in its genre, winning the prestigious Golden Goblet Award for Best Animation Film at the 2024 Shanghai International Film Festival.
A Cinematic Experience Like No Other
Naoko Yamada’s signature style shines through in “The Colors Within,” combining poignant storytelling with stunning visuals. Known for her delicate portrayal of emotions in series like “K-On!,” Yamada takes viewers on an evocative journey, blending the universal language of music with the complex, colorful world of human emotions.
With a visually stunning palette and a heartfelt narrative, “The Colors Within” promises to be a cinematic experience that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.
Save the Date – October 23!
Don’t miss your chance to see this highly anticipated anime film as it makes its Philippine debut in cinemas on October 23. Whether you’re a fan of “K-On!” or simply in search of a moving story about friendship and music, “The Colors Within” is a must-see.
For the latest updates on the film, including behind-the-scenes content and special features, follow Encore Films PH on Facebook and Instagram (@encorefilmsph).
In Joker: Folie à Deux, the sequel to the 2019 Oscar-winning film, the music within Arthur Fleck takes center stage, revealing more of his complex and fractured psyche. Writer, director, and producer Todd Phillips knew that music would play a vital role in the film’s evolution.
“There’s a romance to Arthur in the first film, like when he dances in the bathroom,” Phillips reflects. “Arthur has music in him. That was a logical leaping-off point for the sequel.”
Joaquin Phoenix, who reprises his Oscar-winning role as Arthur Fleck/Joker, adds, “We started talking about music very early on.”
The Music Inside Arthur Fleck
In this new chapter, Arthur finds himself institutionalized at Arkham Asylum, facing the consequences of his crimes as the Joker. Struggling to reconcile his two identities, Arthur not only discovers love but also unlocks the music that has been a part of him all along.
For Phoenix, performing live renditions of songs during filming brought a rawness to the experience. “We had to perform live and perform the songs in ways that maybe weren’t the most beautiful renditions of the song,” says Phoenix, laughing. “There was something very exciting about that.”
Lady Gaga’s Take on Harley Quinn and Arthur’s Music
The film introduces Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn, Arthur’s twisted love interest, marking her debut in the Joker franchise. For Gaga, the music within Arthur is a mirror of his chaotic and fractured soul.
“This music within him, it’s messy, chaotic,” says the Grammy winner. “It’s expressing the complexity of love and in a way brings Arthur to life.”
As Arthur stumbles through his journey of love and self-discovery, the music becomes an essential thread that ties the story together. The chaotic sounds reflect the Joker’s unhinged persona while highlighting the emotions that simmer beneath the surface.
What to Expect in Joker: Folie à Deux
Joker: Folie à Deux is set to offer a darker, more twisted exploration of Arthur Fleck’s transformation. With Phillips’ signature storytelling and Phoenix and Gaga’s captivating performances, this sequel promises to take audiences on an emotional rollercoaster filled with romance, chaos, and music.
Joker: Folie à Deux will be released in cinemas across the Philippines on October 2, 2024, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company. Don’t miss this explosive return to the world of Gotham’s most infamous villain. #JokerMovie #FolieADeux #ArthurFleck
The wait is over, and critics have spoken! “Transformers One” is hitting theaters soon, and early reviews are giving fans plenty to be excited about. Here’s what critics are raving about the new animated blockbuster.
“Best Transformers Film to Date” — Critics Praise Story and Direction
“Transformers One” has captivated critics with its rich storytelling and emotional depth. Next Best Picture declares, “Transformers One is by far and away the best Transformers film to date.” The film delves into the origins of iconic characters Optimus Prime and Megatron, revealing their heartbreaking journey from brothers to enemies. Directed by Josh Cooley, this animated feature has impressed reviewers with its flawless direction, expertly balancing humor, action, and heart.
One reviewer noted, “Josh Cooley directed this animated film to perfection, down to the last comedic and action beat, all backed by an epic score and an excellent voice cast.”
Stunning Animation Wows Audiences
According to The Hollywood Reporter, “gorgeous 3D-style computer animation” which they described as “a wonder to behold throughout.” They also described the story as a “thoroughly entertaining origin story that even the uninitiated can enjoy. Besides the raucous, de rigueur action sequences, Transformers One provides numerous witty jokes of both the verbal and visual variety and – surprise, surprise – genuine emotion. Consider this a franchise revitalized.”
Nuanced Characters Add New Depth to the Franchise
Variety lauded the film’s nuanced portrayal of its beloved characters, saying, “while still delivering the fun and excitement expected of Hasbro’s metamorphosizing robots, Transformers One approaches the well-known characters with a degree of nuance and complexity that marks the most sophisticated onscreen portrait of them to date.”
MovieWeb: “Raise Your Expectations!”
MovieWeb was equally impressed, celebrating the film’s thoughtful script and strong themes. Their review highlighted “Transformers One is a mesmerizing CGI adventure chock-full of thrilling action scenes, great humor, and a thoughtful script with powerful themes. Raise your expectations, because Transformers One sets a new high standard for the long-running franchise,” lauded MovieWeb.
Comicbook.com echoed these sentiments, praising the voice cast and calling the story “exceptionally strong story,” voice cast and animation, and the reviewer said that “I would be remiss by not calling this the best Transformers film since the 1980s animated film. If this is the future of the Transformers franchise, then Autobot and Decepticons fans have a bright future to look forward to indeed.”
Fans Are Loving It Too
Early fan reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. The first public screenings in the U.S. left audiences thrilled, with fans praising the movie’s breathtaking animation, compelling storyline, and standout performances.
Don’t Miss the Post-Credits Scenes
As a final treat, Transformers One includes two post-credit scenes that fans won’t want to miss. Be sure to stay seated until the very end for extra surprises!
Rolling Out in Theaters Soon!
Transformers One hits Philippine cinemas on September 18. Distributed by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures, the film promises to be a must-see event for Transformers enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Join the conversation online using the hashtag #TransformersOne and tag @paramountpicsph for the latest updates!
Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
Eddie and Venom’s partnership faces its ultimate test as their story reaches a dramatic conclusion in “Venom: The Last Dance.“ Slated to crash into Philippine cinemas on October 23, fans can now watch the emotional and thrilling final trailer. Get ready for an epic farewell to one of Marvel’s most complex antiheroes!
About Venom: The Last Dance
Tom Hardy reprises his iconic role as Venom in this highly anticipated finale. The film dives deep into Eddie Brock and Venom’s unbreakable yet tumultuous bond as they navigate the chaos closing in on them. Hunted by both the human and symbiote worlds, the duo faces their toughest challenge yet. As the net tightens, Eddie and Venom must make a heart-wrenching decision that will decide their fate—forever.
Venom: The Last Dance promises a mix of heart, action, and suspense, delivering a finale that fans won’t forget. As the curtains fall on this legendary partnership, audiences will be on the edge of their seats for the final ride.
Directed by Kelly Marcel, who also penned the screenplay based on a story co-written by Marcel and Tom Hardy, this film promises to be a gripping conclusion to the Venom trilogy. Produced by Avi Arad, Matt Tolmach, Amy Pascal, Kelly Marcel, Tom Hardy, and Hutch Parker, Venom: The Last Dance is shaping up to be a cinematic event to remember.
Watch in Cinemas This October
Mark your calendars! Venom: The Last Dance will hit Philippine theaters on October 23. Don’t miss your chance to witness the epic finale. Distributed by Columbia Pictures, the local arm of Sony Pictures Releasing International, this is one ride you’ll want to experience on the big screen.
#1 New York Times bestselling novel The Wild Robot by Peter Brown is set to make its highly anticipated cinematic debut this October. Directed by Chris Sanders, the mind behind How to Train Your Dragon and The Croods, and produced by DreamWorks Animation, this animated adaptation is bound to captivate audiences worldwide.
A New Kind of Adventure
Described by DreamWorks Animation President Margie Cohn as “a once-in-a-generation book,” The Wild Robot tells the heartwarming tale of Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island. The character, voiced by Academy Award® winner Lupita Nyong’o, embarks on a profound journey of survival, self-discovery, and connection with nature. Roz’s encounters with the island’s wildlife gradually transform her from an outsider into a beloved member of this untamed world.
Audiences will be swept away by both the stunning natural landscapes and the emotional depth of Roz’s story. Margie Cohn shares, “At DreamWorks, our goal is to transport audiences into immersive places that they’ve never experienced before, whether it’s the fairytale landscapes of Shrek and Puss in Boots, the fantastical prehistoric world of The Croods or the natural beauty of Kung Fu Panda and, of course, the How to Train Your Dragon films,” Cohn says. “But our films also explore the emotional terrain of what it means to be alive: to be lonely, to be afraid, to experience the thrill of the unknown, to find the brave places inside yourself that you may not have known existed, and, above all, to find your home, and your family, in whatever form that may be. We were thrilled that Peter trusted us with his story.”
A Director’s Personal Connection
Chris Sanders, the three-time Academy Award-nominated director, discovered The Wild Robot through his daughter’s school project and was immediately drawn to the novel’s emotional resonance. “What struck me most about the book was its deceptively simple yet profound emotional depth,” Sanders says. “I connected with its innocence and its earnestness. I’m drawn to stories with strong emotional undercurrents. While I appreciate big adventure stories, it’s the quieter, more intimate moments that truly resonate. These are the elements I prioritize as a filmmaker, and I thought The Wild Robot exemplified them beautifully.”
Sanders’s expertise in crafting emotionally driven films ensures that The Wild Robot will be more than just an adventure – it will be a poignant exploration of identity and the bonds that form in the most unexpected places.
Bringing The Vision to Life
Author Peter Brown, whose lifelong passion for animation shaped his storytelling, was deeply involved in the film’s adaptation process. “When I heard that DreamWorks wanted to make a movie based on The Wild Robot, it felt like my life was coming full circle,” Brown says. “Books and movies are very different art forms, so it’s only natural for The Wild Robot movie to differ from the book, but I had numerous discussions with the filmmakers, and I knew their goal was to capture the spirit of the story that I had dreamed up years ago.”
The Wild Robot is an extraordinary adventure that blends technology and nature. The story follows Roz, a ROZZUM unit 7134, who is shipwrecked on an uninhabited island and must learn to adapt to her harsh surroundings. As Roz encounters the island’s animals, she forms meaningful connections, including a touching relationship with an orphaned gosling named Brightbill. Through these interactions, Roz discovers the essence of humanity in the most unexpected ways.
With its beautiful animation, talented cast, and heartwarming narrative, The Wild Robot is poised to be a film that resonates deeply with audiences of all ages.
Experience the Journey in Cinemas
Get ready to connect with your wild side! The Wild Robot opens in Philippine cinemas on October 9. Expect a visually stunning, emotionally rich film that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Stay updated on the latest news by following Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Join the conversation using #TheWildRobotMoviePH.
Photo and video credit: “Universal Pictures International”
