ClickTheCity

Author: Press Release

  • When Love Blooms Between Two Cultures

    Love transcends borders especially when two share the same passion. The same is true for Japan’s most-loved almond milk brand, Glico’s Almond Koka and award-winning Filipino tree-to-bar chocolate brand Auro Chocolate – who both share the same passion for championing culinary diversity. That’s when love blooms.

    This Valentine’s season, the two teamed up to create ORINASU CAFÉ, a special pop-up cafe that marries together Japanese and Filipino cultures through lovingly handcrafted drinks and treats. Located at MITSUKOSHI BGC, ORINASU CAFÉ will add more sweetness to the season from February 1 to February 19, 2024.

    Orinasu Cafe x Glico

    Japan’s No. 1 and the Philippines’ Finest

    From the makers of the globally loved brand, Pocky, Glico’s Almond Koka is Japan’s best-selling almond milk brand, known for its superior quality taste–all thanks to the company’s relentless pursuit of quality and Japanese technology. Yet another signature work of Glico’s finesse at blending great taste with nutrition, Almond Koka offers a richer and stronger nutty flavor because of the emulsifying method of adding honey and almond oil to ground almond paste.

    Collaborating with Japan’s Almond Koka is the Philippines’ premier chocolate brand, Auro Chocolate. The chocolate company carved its path to the global chocolate scene by earning prestigious awards at esteemed international chocolate competitions. For this new concept, Auro Chocolate prides itself in working with MITSUKOSHI FRESH in selecting only the finest Japanese ingredients – such as Matcha, Hojicha and Miso – to be used in crafting the menu. And in line with Auro’s meticulous, innovative, and time-tested know-how, this collaboration with Almond Koka brings out the best in Filipino & Japanese epicurean cultures. 

    ORINASU CAFÉ

    Japanese for ‘weave’, ORINASU is exactly what the pop-up cafe symbolizes: the weaving of two cultures through the harmonious fusion of Almond Koka’s and Auro’s product versatility–as seen with the cafe’s limited-edition line of “Choc Au Lait” vegan-friendly drinks and snacks.

    Gracing the menu is the fascinating drink that is the Miso Salted Caramel! This luscious vegan-friendly white chocolate drink combined with Maruhide’s top-quality Miso, Auro’s Salted Caramel and Almond Koka – our take on Salted Caramel with a Japanese Twist. Served with a generous heap of White Chocolate shavings.

    Hojicha is just pure bliss in a cup. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Auro’s creamy white chocolate, infused with Ikeda Senchado’s top-quality Hojicha, complemented by the richness of Almond Koka.

    If you haven’t found “the one” yet, maybe the next drink could be your perfect matcha. ORINASU’s vegan-friendly white chocolate matcha hits the spot with its perfect balance of sweet and earthy. The  Ikeda Senchado matcha creation provides that familiar grassy notes, blended with a sweet, velvety finish from Almond Koka.

    If you’re looking for something bold, then you’ll surely love the luscious Dark Choc. This drink is incredibly rich yet smooth because of the combined decadence of Auro Dark Chocolate and Almond Koka.

    Completing the menu is the Dark Chocolate Stuffed with Strawberries French Toast. Each bite is a delightful burst of Auro dark chocolate filling, tarty strawberry jam with the goodness of Almond Koka. Every treat from ORINASU CAFÉ is brought to you by Almond Koka and Auro Chocolate. For more information, FOLLOW @glico_ph and @aurochocolate on INSTAGRAM.

  • Central Colleges of the Philippines Celebrates 70th Foundation Day with Spectacular Concert

    Central Colleges of the Philippines (CCP) is gearing up to celebrate its 70th Foundation Day with a bang! The two-day extravaganza, taking place from February 15th to 16th, promises to be an unforgettable event for students, alumni, faculty, and the local community.

    CCP Foundation Day Poster

    As part of the festivities, CCP is thrilled to announce a spectacular concert on February 16th, featuring performances by some of the hottest acts in the music scene: Sleep Alley, Magnus Haven, Sugarcane. This electrifying concert will be the highlight of the celebration, showcasing the talent and vibrancy of the CCP community.

    Tickets for the concert are priced at a nominal fee of 300 pesos, making it accessible to all members of the CCP community and beyond. For ticket inquiries and purchases, interested parties can contact Zam at 09457861716.

    CCP Foundation Day

    Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime event! Join us as we celebrate 70 years of excellence, innovation, and community at Central Colleges of the Philippines’ 70th Foundation Day celebration.

    For more information and updates on the celebration, please visit Central Colleges of the Philippines website at www.ccp.edu.ph

  • Ayala Malls Cinemas Exclusively Brings Award-winning and Oscar-nominated Film “The Holdovers” on February 21

    Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to bring world-class, award-winning films within reach of every movie enthusiast as The Holdovers opens exclusively in its screens on February 21.

    The Holdovers is arguably filmmaker Alexander Payne’s “most emotional movie,” says producer Mark Johnson (Rain Man, Breaking Bad).

    Directed by Academy Award winner Alexander Payne (Sideways, The Descendants) from a script by David Hemingson (Kitchen Confidential), The Holdovers follows a grumpy instructor (Paul Giamatti) at a prestigious American school who is forced to remain on campus during Christmas break to babysit the handful of students with nowhere to go. Eventually he forms an unlikely bond with one of them – a damaged, brainy troublemaker (newcomer Dominic Sessa) – and with the school’s head cook, who has just lost a son in Vietnam (Da’Vine Joy Randolph).

    The Holdovers Ayala

    The Holdovers has a 97% Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. RogerEbert.com finds The Holdover as a “consistently smart, funny movie about people who are easy to root for and like the ones we know”, while CNN praises The Holdovers as “one of director Alexander Payne’s best films – very funny, occasionally touching and a sterling example of the bonds that can be forged by an unlikely family.” Lauds Entertainment Weekly, “The Holdovers is a warm hug of a movie and the closest thing we’ve had to a new holiday classic in quite some time.”

    The Holdovers has been nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay. It recently won two Golden Globe Awards, for Giamatti and Randolph. Don’t miss the critically acclaimed film, distributed by Universal Pictures International and available exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas. 

    Giamatti Sessa

    Take your cinema experience to the next level

    Ayala Malls Cinemas are designed to ensure that viewers experience the utmost comfort and enjoyment. Featuring plush seating and generous legroom, coupled with cutting-edge laser projections for sharper images, and top-notch Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos technologies to enhance audio depth, moviegoers are in for an exceptional cinematic experience. Cinema patrons can also enjoy a variety of delicious treats, such as popcorn, hotdog sandwiches, burgers and ice-cold beverages, from The Movie Snackbar. Explore the world of award-winning and Oscar-nominated films exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas, where every detail is crafted to elevate your time at the movies.

    Alexander Payne The Holdovers
    The Holdovers director Alexander Payne
    Photo Credit: Universal Pictures International

    Ayala Malls Zing Plus members can get extra perks as they can earn double Zing points when they use their Zing-linked credit card or GCash to purchase movie tickets at the Ayala Malls Cinema ticket booth or at www.sureseats.com with a minimum spend of P600. Promo runs until June 30, 2024. 

    Keep updated with The Holdovers and all the latest cinema experiences from Ayala Malls Cinemas by following the official Ayala Malls Cinemas FB and IG pages

  • Vaultboy Comes to Manila: A One-Night Event at The Podium Hall on June 13!

    American singer-songwriter and hitmaker VAULTBOY is coming to Manila for the first time ever on June 13 at the Podium Hall. Tickets go on-sale on Friday, February 23 at 12NN via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets. Presented by Eventim Live Asia and Wilbros Live.

    Vaultboy V1

    vaultboy is a singer-songwriter from Jacksonville, Florida who first began experimenting with music during high school and has been perfecting and growing his craft ever since. His chosen name pays homage to his love of video games, specifically the Fallout series.

    Inspired by the likes of Alexander 23, Lauv and Blackbear, vaultboy is a creative driven by conversational lyricism and the human condition. Since his debut single release in May 2021, “everything sucks” has garnered over 250 million streams across all platforms, over 700k Shazams worldwide, and hit and held the Spotify Global Viral Chart #1 spot for two weeks as well as hitting #1 on QQ music’s western chart in China. 

    Stream Vaultboy’s self-titled EP on Spotify: vaultboy EP

  • Empowering Smiles: Listerine Champions #CompleteMouthProtection during National Oral Health Month

    As this year’s National Oral Health Month officially begins, Listerine embarks on a mission to empower 110 million Filipinos to combat oral disease and to prioritize their overall oral health. 

    Listerine Champions CompleteMouthProtection during National Oral Health Month

    Taking care of your oral health goes beyond just brushing. While brushing is an essential part of your oral hygiene routine, brushing only cleans about 25% of your mouth, leaving behind billions of germs that can cause oral health issues like plaque, cavities, and gum problems. Dr. Ashley Barlow, Senior Director & Head of Medical & Safety Sciences, Kenvue Asia Pacific, expounds on the most common oral health issues.

    1. Increased Plaque Buildup – There are several changes that occur in your bodies, and the oral cavity is no exception. One key factor is that the immune system tends to weaken over time. In the context of your overall oral health, this weakening of the immune response can make it easier for bacteria to thrive and accumulate in the mouth. This will then appear to look like plaque. 
    2. Cavities – Cavities (also known as dental caries or tooth decay) are areas of damage on the surface of the teeth that result from the breakdown of tooth enamel layer. Once plaque builds up on the surface on the teeth, acids produced by plaque bacteria slowly erodes the enamel, causing cavities. Untreated cavities can cause pain, infections and tooth sensitivity which may lead to day-to-day discomfort when eating or speaking.
    3. Gum Problems – Gum disease (or periodontal disease) is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding the teeth, primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque and bacteria from poor oral hygiene. If left untreated, severe gum disease can lead to gum recession and permanent tooth loss.

    With this, Dr. Barlow reminds everyone, “At Listerine, we have consistently championed the cause of good overall oral health, striving to free 110 million Filipino mouths from the grip of oral diseases. The conventional habit of relying solely on brushing, once deemed sufficient, no longer provides the comprehensive protection our mouths need. It’s time to proactively examine our mouths for early signs of oral problems and embrace the regular use of Listerine. See for yourself the transformative impact of good oral hygiene and keep your smiles healthy for longer.”

    After brushing, make sure to follow up with a mouthwash like Listerine Total Care to give up to 24-hour germ protection*, kill 99.9% of germs that cause plaque, cavities, and gum problems, and experience 5x more cleaning power than brushing and flossing alone.

    Listerine also partners with MacoyDubs and Mikee Reyes to inspire Filipinos to start protecting their mouths and stick to using Listerine after every brush. MacoyDubs proudly shares, “Listerine has been a game-changer in giving #CompleteMouthProtection and maintaining good overall oral health. Since incorporating this into my daily oral hygiene routine, I’ve noticed a significant reduction in bacteria, ensuring my mouth feels clean and healthy. Thanks to Listerine, I can confidently say that my smile is not just a reflection of my personality but also a testament to a healthier mouth.”

    Listerine 2

    Listerine Ambassadors MacoyDubs and Mikee Reyes together with Listerine Total Care 

    Similarly, Mikee Reyes highlights his heightened awareness of the thoroughness of mouth cleaning when comparing the effectiveness of brushing alone to incorporating Listerine Total Care after brushing. “All this time I thought I was keeping my mouth clean just by brushing. Thanks to Listerine Total Care, I’m able to clean virtually up to 99.9% of my mouth, giving me the #CompleteMouthProtection I need to stay free from oral health issues.”

    Apart from making Listerine Total Care more accessible to Filipinos through retail partnerships, Listerine reaches out to more touchpoints throughout National Oral Health Month. For the first time since 2018, Listerine is engaging with 600 dental clinics and over 9,000 dentists nationwide, educating them on the science and superiority of mouthwash through talks and presence in various conventions. Listerine will also be present at the conventions held by the Philippine Dental Association and will conduct sampling initiatives. Listerine will also deploy dispensers in dental clinics and other high-traffic areas such as gyms and offices to encourage the habit of rinsing with Listerine twice daily.

    Let’s unite this National Oral Health Month to embrace a proactive approach to oral care. Listerine is here as a partner, encouraging everyone to take charge of their oral health journey and enjoy the benefits of a vibrant, healthy smile. Together, let’s champion #CompleteMouthProtection and celebrate a month dedicated to nurturing our smiles and overall well-being. Visit the nearest Watsons or the official Listerine store on Shopee or Lazada to get your Listerine Total Care Mouthwash.

  • Meet the Newest Classic: Tip-Top Chicken Tocino

    Tip-Top Chicken, known for premium quality poultry that is safe, sustainable, and tasty, introduces Easy and Tasty Chicken Tocino. This new addition to Tip-Top’s roster of products is set to elevate all-day dining for Filipinos with 100% chicken meat, no added preservatives, and no artificial coloring. 

    Tip Top Tocino Hawker Noodles

    Globally, people are consuming more chicken than ever before because it is an economic and nutritious protein option that tastes good. The same is reflected locally, with reports from the Philippine Department of Agriculture reflecting how chicken meat has gained popularity faster than other meats due to its affordability, lower fat content, and cultural acceptability. 

    In meeting the needs of the local market, Tip-Top has been capturing Filipino taste buds since 2021 with its flavorful offerings, giving consumers healthier and safer options beyond the usual. The brand offers quality choice cuts of drumstick, wings, breast, thigh, and whole chicken products. Easy and Tasty is the marinated product line of the choice cuts meant to make preparing meals easier and more convenient for those on-the-go or are new to the kitchen. 

    Not your ordinary Tocino

    Tip-Top is a consumer brand by C-Joy Poultry Meats Production, Inc., a joint venture between Cargill Philippines and Jollibee Foods Corporation. Building on Cargill Philippines’ 75-year legacy of excellence, Tip-Top offers consumers yet another alternative to traditional tocino, free from artificial colors and salitre. With its signature sweet-savory flavor and tender texture, the Easy and Tasty Chicken Tocino promises to redefine the breakfast staple and spark culinary creativity among consumers.

    Raw Tip Top Chicken Tocino

    “At C-Joy, we are committed to continuously innovating to meet the changing demands of our customers. Tip-Top’s Chicken Tocino delivers both convenience and flavor in every pack, carefully crafted with uncompromising quality. As the newest addition to our product line, alongside favorites like our Crispy & Tasty Chicken Nuggets and our chicken Choice Cuts, our commitment is to continually pioneer healthy, tasty, and convenient options, ensuring that Filipino consumers always have an easy choice with Tip-Top,” said Mija Darlene Cu-Cachapero, President and CEO of C-Joy.

    Made with 100% chicken meat, Tip-Top products are produced and packed on the same day, ensuring freshness and quality with every purchase. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Tip-Top allows consumers to create delicious meals in just 15 minutes, reflecting C-Joy’s dedication to providing families with easy-to-prepare, safe, and quality products without compromising on nutrition or taste.

    The brand’s success is rooted in its strong commitment to safety and sustainability, which are central to its operations. Focusing on people-first practices, C-Joy ensures the welfare of its employees and the communities it serves. From stringent safety protocols to adhering to animal welfare standards, it sets the benchmark for ethical and sustainable practices in the industry.

    Tip-Top Easy and Tasty Chicken Tocino is now available at all branches of South Supermarket and Robinsons Supermarket. For more information, visit Tip Top’s Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok pages.

  • MVPs, more standouts boost PLDT High Speed Hitters for ‘strongest’ PVL lineup yet

    Offense, defense, and strategy all covered as the likes of Kim Kianna Dy, Majoy Baron, Kim Fajardo, Savannah Davison, and newly hailed skipper Kath Arado aim to win 1st first PVL title

    With three former MVPs on board, a Filipino-Canadian scoring machine as a sophomore, and a pool of reliable standouts as holdovers, expect a far more powerful PLDT High Speed Hitters team at the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference. Ahead of the league’s opening on February 20, all eyes are on the volleyball team supported by PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan, as it faces 11 other participants, kicking off the biggest Philippine volleyball action this 2024.

    Headlining the team are the terrific trio of Kianna Dy (UAAP Season 78 Finals MVP, 2021 PNVF Champions League MVP and Best Opposite Hitter), Majoy Baron (UAAP Season 79 MVP, 2023 PVL Invitational Conference 1st Best Middle Blocker), and Kim Fajardo (3-time UAAP Best Setter, UAAP Beach Volleyball MVP, 6-time Philippine Super Liga Best Setter).

    PLDT High Speed Hitters 2024

    All once part of the national team, they came to prominence during their collegiate days with the De La Salle University Lady Spikers. They each carry three UAAP gold medals, among other silver finishes and individual awards.

    After finishing as PVL’s top scorer in her rookie year in the last conference, Savannah Davison is seen as a credible threat on the court. She contributed 202 points through 173 attacks, 22 blocks, and seven service aces at the end of the eliminations. Davison competed at National Collegiate Athletic Association Division 1 and national competition levels in the US, while completing her biochemistry degree at the New Mexico State University and MBA at University of Oklahoma Gene Rainbolt Graduate School of Business

    PVL

    Meanwhile, three-time PVL Best Libero Kath Arado takes on a new role of captain, as she mans the team’s backcourt defense with her precision and agility. Also a multi-awarded UAAP libero, she leads a lineup of veterans and former national team players including 2022 PVL Invitational Conference Best Middle Blockers Mika Reyes and Dell Palomata and UAAP champions Rhea Dimaculangan and Jules Samonte. Erika Santos, Fiola Ceballos, Jessey de Leon, Jovelyn Prado, Rachel Austero, Iza Viray, and Far Eastern University standouts Kiesha Bedonia and Sheila Kiseo complete the roster.

    PLDT High Speed Hitters Coaching staff

    “We are excited to see volleyball court action resume this February. As always, we are here to support the PLDT High Speed Hitters in this new season. We also hope to give a more exhilarating experience to the fans watching live on the sidelines of the games as they support this powerhouse team,” said Jude Turcuato, Head of Sports at PLDT and Smart.

    PVL champion coaches Rald Ricafort and Arnold Laniog along with Manolo Refugia, Mike Santos, and Ervin Peralta banner the coaching staff. Paolo Escaño is tasked to supervise the team’s strength and conditioning.

    PLDT High Speed Hitters with PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business Home

    MVPs meet the MVP

    A few days before the new season kicked off, the PLDT High Speed Hitters dropped by the PLDT headquarters in Makati City for a courtesy visit with PLDT President/CEO, Manny Pangilinan.

    “The goal is to have as many Filipino volleyball athletes as possible representing us in international events—and maybe even the Olympics. We will continue to work with partner leagues and organizations to help make this possible. Of course, the work begins with our team. They make us very proud, and we hope they continue to play their hearts out on the court,” Pangilinan said.

    The team also had the chance to meet, interact, and play games with PLDT and Smart employees to promote the upcoming season.

    Volleyball fans can follow the journey of PLDT High Speed Hitters through Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok.

  • Celebrate Love in Every Form with Goldilocks this Valentine’s Day

    Love is in the air, and on this Valentine’s Day, Goldilocks is ready to spread joy and sweetness to every corner of your heart.

    Filipinos are known for their creative and overflowing ways of expressing love. Whether it’s through simple yet thoughtful gifts, handwritten letters brimming with emotion, or grand gestures that speak volumes, Pinoys go above and beyond to show their affection to those who matter most.

    Goldilocks Choco Caramel Valentine

    At Goldilocks, love is not limited to romantic relationships. It’s about celebrating the warmth of familial bonds, the laughter shared among friends, and the importance of self-love. This Valentine’s Day, Goldilocks invites you to embrace love in all its beautiful forms.

    At the heart of Goldilocks’ Valentine’s Day celebration is their latest creation – the Choco Caramel Valentine. This decadent, heart-shaped chocolate cake is draped in a luscious caramel embrace and adorned with delicate rosettes. With every bite, indulge in a symphony of sweet, timeless love.

    Whether you’re celebrating with your significant other, your family, your friends, or even just with yourself, the Choco Caramel Valentine is the perfect treat to make your Valentine’s Day celebration extra special. Priced at only P520, it’s an affordable indulgence that captures the essence of love in every slice.

    For more information about Goldilocks’ delectable menu offerings and promotions, be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Stay updated on the latest news and events to make your celebrations even more memorable.

    Getting your hands on the Choco Caramel Valentine is easier than ever. Simply order through GrabFood and FoodPanda or visit www.goldilocksdelivery.ph to place your order online. Don’t miss out on this sweet opportunity to indulge in love’s sweet embrace!

    Hurry, the Choco Caramel Valentine is available only until February 29, 2024. Make sure to order yours before it’s too late and make this Valentine’s Day one to remember with Goldilocks.

    This Valentine’s Day, let Goldilocks be your partner in spreading love and sweetness to everyone you hold dear. With their irresistible Choco Caramel Valentine cake, every moment becomes a celebration of love in all its forms. Order now and make memories that will last a lifetime with Goldilocks!

  • Sweeten Your Valentine’s Day with Red Ribbon’s New Valentine Red Velvet

    Valentine’s Day is the perfect canvas to express affection, and Red Ribbon has crafted a masterpiece that speaks the language of love – the New Valentine Red Velvet. Delve into a symphony of flavors and emotions as you gift your special someone this enchanting cake, a delightful creation that promises not just sweetness but an experience that warms the heart.

    The New Valentine Red Velvet isn’t just a cake; it’s a visual masterpiece. Shaped like a heart and adorned with a rose bouquet design, it’s a sight to behold. The visual poetry of red and white layers, topped with intricate icing roses, makes it the perfect gift to declare your love in a sweet, edible form.

    Red Ribbon Valentines Red Velvet Cake

    Crafted with passion by Red Ribbon, this cake is a symphony of flavors. The layers of soft chiffon, a dance of white and red, are elegantly embraced by cream cheese icing. As you savor each bite, the red velvet crumbs add a delightful crunch, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess that lingers on the palate. It’s not just a cake; it’s an indulgent journey.

    Make your Valentine’s Day memorable with the New Valentine Red Velvet, available in Luzon, Mindanao, and select Visayas stores starting February 13, 2024. This delectable creation is a limited-time offering, so seize the moment to share the love with this enchanting treat.

    Starting February 13, experience the ease of ordering through the Red Ribbon app or the delivery website (order.redribbon.ph). Dive into the deliciousness with just a few taps! Additionally, find the New Valentine Red Velvet on GrabFood and foodpanda apps for a hassle-free delivery experience.

    The joy of gifting love shouldn’t break the bank. Prices start at Php 500 for the junior size, and Php 779 for the regular size. Red Ribbon ensures that expressing love remains not only delightful but also affordable for everyone.

    As Valentine’s Day unfolds, let Red Ribbon be your partner in creating unforgettable moments of love and sweetness. With their New Valentine Red Velvet cake, every slice is an expression of your deepest affections. Order now for a limited time only and make this Valentine’s Day a celebration to cherish with Red Ribbon!

  • Director Zelda Williams hopes “Lisa Frankenstein” makes viewers feel more comfortable and seen in their weirdness, now in cinemas.

    When director Zelda Williams and her team first screened Lisa Frankenstein, the host asked the focus group at the end what they thought the main message of the movie was. 

    Zelda Williams and Diablo Cody

    “There was of course mention of flying body parts,” shares Williams. “But one of them, who seemed to be around 18, raised their hand and confidently answered, ‘that you can be a completely unhinged weirdo and still deserve to be loved!’ This movie won’t be for everyone, but if anyone leaves it feeling THAT way, then in my eyes, I’ve more than done my job!”

    In Lisa Frankenstein, it’s 1989 and Lisa Swallows (Kathryn Newton), an awkward 17-year-old, is trying to adjust to a new school and a new life after her mother’s death and her father’s hasty remarriage. Despite the unwavering support offered by her plucky cheerleader step sister Taffy (Liza Soberano – who has earned local and international praise, including from Hollywood director Joe Russo, for her performance!), Lisa only finds solace in the abandoned cemetery near her house, where she tends to the grave of a young man who died in 1837 – and whose corpse she unwittingly reanimates (Cole Sprouse). Feeling obligated to help the poor soul regain his humanity, Lisa embarks on a quest to breathe new life into her long-dead new companion. All she needs to succeed are some freshly harvested body parts and Taffy’s broken tanning bed.

    Cinematographer Paula Huidobro and director Zelda Williams

    The film, inspired by 1935’s Bride of Frankenstein and ’80s favorites including Weird Science, was written by Academy Award winner Diablo Cody (Juno, Jennifer’s Body). Cody found an ideal collaborator in Williams, an actress turned filmmaker known for her voice-over work on such projects as Nickelodeon’s animated series The Legend of Korra and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Williams also starred in Freeform’s anthology series Dead of Summer and enjoyed recurring roles on the hit series Teen Wolf, before writing and directing her first short film, 2018’s Shrimp. Lisa Frankenstein is the feature film directorial debut of Williams, daughter of the late Robin Williams and part-Filipina Marsha Garces.  

    Cody was ceaselessly impressed by the atmosphere Williams fostered on set. “Zelda ran one of the most warm, welcoming and efficient sets I’ve ever seen,” says Cody. “She also grew up in the industry, so instead of seeing the usual first-film jitters, I saw a director calmly and smoothly operating inside her comfort zone. She was an ally to the actors, and to the script as well.” 

    Adds Kathryn Newton, who plays Lisa: “The world in the script is so heightened, but Zelda managed to inject so much heart and love into it. She’s really in the moment, thinking about every little detail. Zelda’s fun and cool and I trust her, and that’s really all you want in a director – someone you trust. She always had my back.”

    In making a story that is a darkly funny, bizarrely romantic and gleefully gory celebration of love, Williams says she hopes to remind audiences to embrace their own eccentricities. In a world hellbent on telling people to be curated, perfect and small, it’s important to remember that sometimes, bigger and wilder is just better. “I would really love them to leave feeling maybe a bit more comfortable in their weirdness, a bit more seen in whatever way they thought made them too odd to be lovable,” says the director.

    This Valentine’s Day, watch the funniest, goriest undead horror romance you’ll see all year. Lisa Frankenstein, distributed by Universal Pictures International, is now showing in cinemas. #LisaFrankensteinPH

    Follow Universal Pictures Ph (FB) and universalpicturesph (IG) for the latest updates on Lisa Frankenstein.