Author: Press Release

FDCP, DGPI open call for filmmakers for the DGPI-FDCP Film Pitch at PFIM

To create opportunities for filmmakers to collaborate with industry leaders and financiers for the development of their film projects, the Directors’ Guild of the Philippines, Inc. (DGPI) partners with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) for the DGPI-FDCP Film Pitch, which will be held on September 16 and 29 during the celebration of the Philippine Film Industry Month (PFIM).

The DGPI-FDCP Film Pitch is open to filmmakers and producers with upcoming film projects in need of financing and assistance in various stages of filmmaking—development, production, or post-production. Participants include filmmakers, producers, post-production companies, distributors, government agencies, and industry stakeholders.

A selection panel will choose 15 outstanding projects based on their synopsis, filmmaker profile, and project feasibility with a proposed budget, financial plan, and timetable. The finalists will then pitch their projects during the DGPI-FDCP Film Pitch at PFIM on September 29, with the aim of finding a business partner such as a co-producer or financier.

Using the speed-dating format, each filmmaker gets a maximum of seven (7) minutes to discuss the details and objectives of their project with their partner. Afterwards, the participants and panel members will select the best project pitch that will receive a special prize by the end of the event.

Prior to this event, a Film Pitch Workshop will take place at the Cinematheque Centre Manila on September 16. This workshop aims to guide the finalists in pitching their projects to potential financiers and develop their knowledge and competence in film financing.

In line with the celebration of PFIM and its goal of fostering the local film industry, the DGPI-FDCP Film Pitch aims to aid selected filmmakers in gaining knowledge about film financing and forming partnerships with co-producers. This film pitch is also an opportunity to discover new, innovative talents in the industry and start a creative discourse between filmmakers and industry stakeholders.

Applications are open until September 1. The application form and guidelines are available on DGPI’s Facebook page.

For more news and announcements, follow FDCP on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

September 1, 2023
Junnie Boy journeys to find the Going Merry from “One Piece”

In the video, Junnie Boy is at a bar, telling his friends about his journey in search of the Going Merry. The Going Merry is the massive ship of the Straw Hat crew in One Piece… that is rumored to be in the Philippines! Dressed as pirate hunter Roronoa Zoro, Junnie Boy asks different people how to get to the East Blue and find the Going Merry.

Find out if Junnie Boy sails with the rest of the Straw Hat crew and catch the epic live-action series adaptation of One Piece, now streaming only on Netflix.

ABOUT ONE PIECE:

Based on Japan’s highest-selling manga series in history by Eiichiro Oda, ONE PIECE is a legendary high-seas adventure unlike any other. Monkey D. Luffy is a young adventurer who has longed for a life of freedom since he can remember. Luffy sets off from his small village on a perilous journey to find the legendary fabled treasure, ONE PIECE, to become King of the Pirates! But in order to find the ultimate prize, Luffy will need to assemble the crew he’s always wanted before finding a ship to sail, searching every inch of the vast blue seas, outpacing the Marines, and outwitting dangerous rivals at every turn.

Starring Iñaki Godoy as Monkey D. Luffy, Mackenyu as Roronoa Zoro, Emily Rudd as Nami, Jacob Romero as Usopp, and Taz Skylar as Sanji, ONE PIECE is a live action pirate adventure created in partnership with Shueisha and produced by Tomorrow Studios and Netflix. Matt Owens and Steven Maeda are writers, executive producers, and showrunners. Eiichiro Oda, Marty Adelstein, and Becky Clements also executive produce. Additional cast includes Vincent Regan, Ilia Isorelýs Paulino, Morgan Davies, Aidan Scott, Langley Kirkwood, Jeff Ward, Celeste Loots, Alexander Maniatis, McKinley Belcher III, Craig Fairbrass, Steven Ward, and Chioma Umeala. Michael Dorman joins the cast as Gold Roger. Additional cast to be announced.

September 1, 2023
McDonald’s Kiddie Crew: A Triumphant Return in 2023

After a 3-year intermission, McDonald’s Kiddie Crew Workshop made an impressive return. Over 20,000 spirited kids from all over the nation participated in this cherished program, rekindling their teamwork, igniting creativity, and bolstering confidence.

Decades of Creating Joy

A cornerstone of McDonald’s since 1991, the Kiddie Crew Workshop showcases McDonald’s dedication to crafting unforgettable moments for both kids and parents. As all good things come to a pause, this enriching journey concludes with the Kiddie Crew Grand Graduation on September 2 and 3.

A Celebration Like No Other

Scheduled at the SMX Convention Center Manila (Halls 1-5), the grand event promises an entertainment bonanza resonating with this year’s theme: “Happy Voyagers”. Attendees will be enthralled by a captivating spectacle seamlessly blending the realms of wonder and reality.

Pre-Show Extravaganza

Before the main event, visitors can engage in interactive games and activities. Lucky attendees have a shot at grabbing enticing McDonald’s prizes. The main act unfolds a whimsical adventure with riveting live performances and the special presence of McDonald’s icons: Ronald McDonald, his jovial crew, and brand ambassadors Alden Richards, Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo, and Ryan Agoncillo.

Words from the Heart

“We are thrilled to celebrate the triumphant return of the Kiddie Crew Program in 2023, with over 20,000 young participants joining us on this incredible journey,” shared Fidel M. Balbieran, Marketing Director at McDonald’s. “The ‘Happy Voyagers’ theme perfectly encapsulates the spirit of exploration, happiness, and growth that defines our program. We invite families, friends, and well-wishers to join us in applauding these young graduates as they mark the culmination of their unforgettable experience,” he remarked.

Seize the Moment

The McDonald’s Kiddie Crew Grand Graduation 2023 is set to etch an indelible mark in the annals of heartwarming celebrations. To be part of this vibrant occasion or for more details, connect with McDonald’s on Facebook.

September 1, 2023
Get Ready To Bite Into Milky Goodness: Milkana’s Creamy Lollipos Are Here

Paving the way for a new, delightful, and healthy habit of snacking for kids – Milkana, Savencia’s international brand, was born more than 60 years ago in the Alps, using excellent milk from Allgäu. The number 1 processed cheese in Germany and sold across Europe, China, Egypt, and Africa – Milkana now introduces its latest Creamy Lollipops to the Philippines.

The Creamy Lollipops were launched officially via a virtual event hosted by celebrity mommies Karel Marquez and Pat Sevilla on August 30, 2023, with media, mommy bloggers, mommy influencers, and other guests joining the much-anticipated event and engaging in fun activities prepared for them and their kids.

The nutritious and flavorful Creamy Lollipops, made with care and innovation, are new premium dairy snacks for kids with no added preservatives. They are excellent sources of milk proteins naturally containing essential amino acids, as well as calcium and vitamin D, which contribute to kids’ stronger bones.

Available in four delicious honest-to-goodness flavors: Fruit Heart Strawberry – the main variant with real fruit filling, Yogurt N Fruits, Mixed Berries, and Milky Ice Cream, these Creamy Lollipops are perfectly adapted to kids’ tastes to be enjoyed as a great snack and as a fun dessert anytime and anywhere.

All it takes for the kids is to open up the lollipop, lick, bite, nibble, and savor slowly. They can also collect the Creamy Lollipops’ fun sticks and animal designs, which come in practical and fun packaging.

With kids back at school, they’re also the perfect “baon” lunch box treats – becoming the special partner of moms as they contribute to building their kids’ health and growth development.

Flora Guyenot, Southern Asia Marketing Director of Savencia Fromage & Dairy, makers of Milkana, says:

“Here at Savencia, we are always looking at new ways to provide better nutrition to consumers worldwide. Guided by our company’s mission – To Lead the Way to Better Food – we are happy and proud to launch our Milkana Creamy Lollipops in the Philippines in the spirit of contributing and helping parents bring healthy and nutritional snacks to their young ones.”

Savencia Fromage & Dairy is an international, family-based, and independent food group among the world’s leading dairy processors.

Parents who are interested in trying the all-new Milkana Creamy Lollipops from Savencia may purchase the products from these leading supermarkets and outlets: Robinsons, The Marketplace, Shopwise, South Supermarket, SM Supermarkets (SVI, SM Hypermarket, and Savemore), S&R, Landers, All Day, Unimart, Cash&Carry, Makati Supermarket, Pioneer Centre, Hi-Top, and Alfamart.

Kids are also invited to come along to choose the flavor they want! Suitable for children from three (3) years and above.

To learn more about the all-new healthy and delicious Milkana Lollipops, please follow https://www.facebook.com/MilkanaPhilippines and https://www.instagram.com/milkanaph/.

September 1, 2023
A Heartwarming Comedy for the Modern Age: Back for a Third Season on Lionsgate Play, ‘Starstruck’ Celebrates Love in All Its Forms

In the screwball comedy series Starstruck, we follow the chaotic life of Jessie (Rose Matafeo), a millennial from New Zealand who finds herself in the bustling streets of Hackney, London. Juggling two dead-end jobs, one as a nanny and the other at a local cinema, Jessie is trying to make ends meet while pursuing her dreams.

Everything takes an unexpected turn when, on New Year’s Eve, Jessie has a wild night and wakes up the next morning next to Tom (Nikesh Patel), a charming and handsome stranger. As she tries to navigate the awkwardness of the morning-after-the-night-before, Jessie soon discovers that Tom is not just any ordinary guy — he’s a world-famous film star. And what starts as a seemingly random encounter quickly turns into a whirlwind romance as Jessie and Tom continue to cross paths.

In Season 3, the series goes in a completely different direction from the first two seasons, taking a step back from the romance. Jessie, now in her 30s, is grappling with that oh-so-relatable feeling of feeling left behind while all her friends are settling down. As Jessie deals with her friend group’s changing dynamics, she must also figure out how to move on and carve her own path. It’s real and raw, but the show manages to keep things light and entertaining, making it a hilarious and heartwarming watch.

Catch Season 3 of Starstruck on September 1, exclusively in the Philippines on Lionsgate Play

September 1, 2023
HLA’s first store in the Philippines opens in Robinsons Manila

The global fashion landscape is rapidly evolving and the phenomenon is reaching the Philippine retail scene in no time! Robinsons Manila welcomes the first concept store of HLA – the newest craze in international men’s fast fashion – in the country. A well-dressed man is sure to catch anyone’s attention and HLA takes pride in making men not only look great but also feel good about themselves.

HLA offers high-quality and well-designed men’s apparel and accessories at reasonable prices so men can stay in style, no matter the season.

With over 6,000 stores spanning the globe, HLA enters the Filipino fast fashion scene with a lot of excitement, amplified by the choice of Robinsons Manila for its pilot store. HLA is not just about clothes; it’s a statement, a lifestyle. The brand embodies three core principles: High-quality clothes, Live symbolizing youth and vitality and Affordable prices. The fusion of these values forms the foundation of a brand committed to weaving global fashion trends into meticulously crafted garments for the modern man.

Tailored to suit the tastes of the modern yet practical man, HLA’s product suite leaves no fashion desire unfulfilled. From timeless staples for daily wear to suave corporate ensembles and from sharp formal attire to the finest selection of socks and shoes, HLA promises a wide array of choices for every facet of a man’s life.

Welcome the future of men’s fashion at Level 1 Midtown, Robinsons Manila, where HLA has found its first and new home.

September 1, 2023
ARTablado Presents Olondrizism

The paintings on display at the ongoing exhibit at ARTablado in Robinsons Galleria are by an artist with a strong faith in a higher power. In fact, when asked who her favorite artist is, Marie Claire Olondriz chose God. “He’s the ultimate artist who created everything… matter, space, time, the entire universe.”

In the years that she has spent honing her painting style, she has come up with canvases awash in color and light. Some of them are of Marian images like Our Lady of Aranzazu and Our Lady Star of the Sea but there are also her floral paintings including a beautiful one of a magnolia flower in full bloom. Another theme is the Madonna and Child although the artist opts to leave their faces blank, inscrutable.

Unlike other painters who utilize both portrait and landscape, Marie Claire’s canvases are all vertical—even one that features a tiny cottage at the bottom of the frame, bluish mountains in the distance.

“I’ve been passionate about art since I was a child. I believe that art is in everything not just in drawing, but in how we do things every day. It’s how we dress, show love, talk, smile, and our dreams. It’s there in what we believe in and how we write. Even in small stuff like arranging things, cooking, and the words we use. Art is all around us,” Marie Claire said.

When she was younger, she would grab a sketch pad and her pencils and draw whatever caught her eye—sketching and coloring based on how she felt.

It taught her to be unafraid of color, of adhering too closely to what colors can be used for certain objects. “Sometimes, if someone asked me to draw something, I’d do it their way,” she said.

Marie Claire came up with her style of painting when she was confined in the hospital. She started out scribbling in her sketch pad which led to continuous circles that initially seemed directionless.

“Later, I expanded this to my paintings, using contrasting colors against the backdrop to create a textured look. What I enjoy is the sense of playfulness these scribbles bring to my art,” she said. “Amidst the sea of realist styles in my art group, mine feels unique. That’s why I began calling it ‘olondrizism,’ after my own name. It reflects my heart and soul when doing art.”

When the time came to pick a title for her ARTablado exhibit, she chose “Obra ni Maria Clara.”

Coming up with new paintings for the exhibit, however, took a while as she struggled with tennis elbow as well as carpal tunnel syndrome, the latter afflicting both hands.

“On top of that, fibromyalgia would give me pain every single day,” she recounted.

She took a break for a while and entertained thoughts she might not be able to meet the deadline. “Instead of having an operation, I tried therapy and kept trusting in God, believing He’d bless this exhibit somehow. I couldn’t let the doctors operate on my hands [because] that would mean no painting for over a month, or maybe even no more painting at all. But I held onto my faith, and after going through therapy and taking some rest, I managed to finish all the paintings I needed for the upcoming exhibit. It’s all thanks to God.”

The exhibit that runs until September 15 will highlight Marie Claire’s take on “the beauty of everyday life, of common things we seldom appreciate.”

The artist is grateful to Roseann Villegas, Corporate Public Relations Director of Robinsons Land Corporation for approaching her after spotting a painting Marie Claire had made for a group show. “It was like a dream come true. I felt overwhelmed. I thanked God because I knew deep down that this was a gift from Him.”

Established in 2020, Robinsons Land ARTablado, a portmanteau of “art” and “entablado” is Robinsons Land’s very own stage in showcasing the Filipino ingenuity and creativity. This platform allows emerging and established artists to freely express themselves through art and paves the way to greater recognition of their talent and hard work. To date, ARTablado has mounted numerous exhibitions and hosted over 400 artists.

September 1, 2023
Celebrate Manila Prince Hotel’s Anniversary with Exclusive Offers this September

Manila Prince Hotel is excited to announce a month-long anniversary celebration this September 2023. To mark this milestone, the hotel is holding a series of exclusive promotions as a token of gratitude to its valued patrons. Below is the rundown of the activities.

Royal Reward Card

To kick off the celebrations, Manila Prince Hotel presents the Royal Reward Card – a frequency card designed to reward the loyal guests of Marcelino St. Café with exciting freebies. Collect a stamp with each lunch or dinner buffet at Marcelino St. Café and enjoy a complimentary iced tea on the 2^nd, 4^th, 6^th, and 8^th visits. On the 10^th visit, indulge in a buffet treat for free. Offer is valid from September 1 to 30, 2023. Terms and conditions apply.

Your Manila Prince Hotel Moments

“Your Manila Prince Hotel Moments” photo contest invites guests to share their most joyous and cherished memories and experiences at the hotel. Whether it’s a heartwarming story, a memorable event, or a snapshot that conveys a special moment, participants have the chance to win a complimentary lunch or dinner buffet for two (2) persons at Marcelino St. Café.

To submit an entry, fill up the form via https://app.manilaprince.com/mph-anniversary/. All successfully submitted photos have the chance to be one of the Top 10 winners which will be selected based on the following criteria: Narrative & Storytelling (50%), Relevance (25%), and Visual & Emotional Impact (25%). Submission of entries is from September 10 to 20, 2023. Announcement of the 10 winners will be on October 2, 2023.

Book Your Celebration With Us

Manila Prince Hotel extends a remarkable special offer to those seeking to celebrate unforgettable events. From elegant weddings to corporate gatherings, booking an event at the hotel not only guarantees a seamless experience but also gives one a chance to enjoy a complimentary staycation. Pay for an event with a minimum revenue of Php 91,023 nett and get an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room inclusive of buffet breakfast for two (2) persons.

Booking period and pay date is from September 1 to 30, 2023. Valid for events from September 1 to December 31, 2023. For inquiries and reservations, call (63 998) 591-1912 or email sales@manilaprince.com. Terms and conditions apply.

Rediscover Cantonese Delights at the Reopening of Dragon Court

Nestled in a chic yet relaxed setting, get ready to savor once again the finest flavors of Cantonese cuisine at Dragon Court. Its carefully crafted menu features all-time favorites and iconic classic dishes. Set to reopen on September 27, enjoy an exquisite lunch experience from 11AM to 3PM or relish an evening affair during dinner service from 6PM to 10PM. For inquiries and reservations, call (63 2) 5328-2222 or email fnb@manilaprince.com.

September 1, 2023
Director Michael Chaves invites fans to “The Nun II” as it gears up for midnight screenings September 6

New Line Cinema brings you the horror thriller “The Nun II,” the next chapter in the story of “The Nun,” the highest grossing entry in the juggernaut $2 billion “The Conjuring” Universe. As a treat to fans of scary movies, “The Nun II” will hold simultaneous midnight screenings in participating cinemas on September 6 (also the film’s opening day). Fans can get their tickets now at https://www.nun2.com.ph/

“I’m really excited for audiences to see this movie, and I think that it is nightmarishly scary,” says Michael Chaves in an interview provided by the studio. “I love the theater-going experience, especially with horror movies. Being in a packed theater with friends and strangers is such an incredible and powerful experience. Along with the scares, it is filled with truly unique set pieces and a compelling story that takes characters whom we love further on their journey and into really hard places while making tough choices. The times that I’ve seen it with an audience have been really special and exciting, and I can’t wait for moviegoers to see this film.”

On his fascination with Valak, Chaves shares, “I think that the Demon Nun is one of those iconic movie monsters. I mean, you see it on a poster and it’s like a little bit of a throwback to Dracula. You see a little bit of Pennywise. You see a little Nosferatu. It’s so timeless and has such an iconic look. It’s one of the ultimate horror movie icons and one of the ultimate movie villains. With this film, I just wanted to take it further. I wanted to explore the manifestations. And I also just wanted to dig more into the story, or at least the myth or the theories, of what its origins could be. I think it’s really important to do that, but to never be too specific. I think that part of the mystery and part of not knowing what it is, that’s really powerful. It’s what makes it truly scary.”

About “The Nun II”

1956 – France. A priest is murdered. An evil is spreading. The sequel to the worldwide smash hit follows Sister Irene as she once again comes face-to-face with Valak, the demon nun.

Taissa Farmiga (“The Nun,” “The Gilded Age”) returns as Sister Irene, joined by Jonas Bloquet (“Tirailleurs,” “The Nun”), Storm Reid (“The Last of Us,” “The Suicide Squad”), Anna Popplewell (“Fairytale,” “The Chronicles of Narnia” trilogy) and Bonnie Aarons (reprising her role from “The Nun”), surrounded by an ensemble cast of international talent.

Michael Chaves (“The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It”) directs, from a screenplay by Ian Goldberg & Richard Naing (“Eli,” “The Autopsy of Jane Doe”) and Akela Cooper (“M3GAN,” “Malignant”),with a story by Cooper, based on characters created by James Wan & Gary Dauberman.

The Safran Company’s Peter Safran and Atomic Monster’s James Wan produce, continuing their collaboration as filmmakers on all of the previous “Conjuring” films. “The Nun II” is executive produced by Richard Brener, Dave Neustadter, Victoria Palmeri, Gary Dauberman, Michael Clear, Judson Scott and Michael Polaire.

In cinemas September 6, “The Nun II” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #TheNun2

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”}

August 31, 2023
Not-For-Kids “Strays” Dog movie subverts genre with a Powerhouse Comedic Voice Cast

The latest dog movie, not for children though, Strays starring the voices of Will Ferrell, Jamie Foxx, Isla Fisher, Park Randall, Josh Gad, Sofia Vergara, Harvey Guillen, Robb Riggle, Brett Gelman and Jamie Demetriou is an R-rated (R-16 in PH) live-action comedy that trails the misadventures of an abandoned Border Terrier who learned to survive on the streets along with his newfound pals while trying to find his way back home.

From the highly-successful Barbie, Will Ferrell takes off his CEO suit and lends voice to Reggie, a naïve optimistic Border Terrier who found genuine friendship on the streets with a fast-talking, foul-mouthed horny Boston Terrier named Bug (voiced by Oscar^®winner Jamie Foxx), a smart Australian Shepherd named Maggie (Isla Fisher, Now You See Me) and Hunter (Randall Park, Always Be My Maybe), an anxious Great Dane – together, they hatch a plan and embark on an epic adventure to help Reggie find his way home and make his owner Doug (Will Forte) pay for abandoning him. Reggie believes he has the best life, and owner ever. Blinded by love, Reggie doesn’t see that Doug is repeatedly trying to ditch him. So, when Doug finally abandons Reggie on the streets during a game of “fetch and fuck,” Reggie doesn’t initially think that he has much in common with the stray dogs he meets.

Directed by Josh Greenbaum, Strays reinvents the dog movies we’re all used to while retaining what the world loves about dogs – on love, loyalty, and friendship. While the core of the adventure is Reggie and his hilarious, disgusting journey of redemption and triumph over an abusive owner, ultimately, it’s the bond of ride-or-die friendship that develops between Reggie and his fellow strays that gives the film it’s emotional bite.

Director Josh Greenbaum with Reggie

Jamie Foxx voices Bug

Will Ferrell voices Reggie

Ferrell was immediately amused by the concept of an R-rated dog film, but it was the heart of it that hooked him. “I immediately loved that the premise emulated a Homeward Bound type of dog movie with a journey behind it, yet it’s filthy and R-rated,” Ferrell says. “I remember thinking it could be really great and could be something we’ve never seen before. The audaciousness of the premise and the sweet, earnest relationships between the dogs surprised me.”

Foxx connected with Bug’s canine-liberation ethos and hedonist world view. “He’s the friend that Reggie never knew he needed because Reggie has been burned by this blind commitment to a human who treats him like garbage. Bug’s got some battle scars, and he is the only one who can help Reggie survive on the streets. Strays is over-the-top funny and raunchy, but it also has a ton of heart. I think that’s what audiences will be drawn to when they see it,” says Foxx.

Isla Fisher voices Maggie

Fisher was drawn to Maggie because of the character’s fearlessness. “What I love about Maggie is that she is surrounded by neurotic male dogs and is certain of her own worth in the pack,” Fisher says. “She’s unapologetic, brave and willing to fight for what she believes in. I couldn’t imagine a better role model, canine or otherwise, and I’m proud to give voice to her.”

Strong as a mastiff and fast as a Whippet, the only thing Great Dane Hunter can’t handle is physical violence. Randall Park who voices Hunter Park immediately sparked to the film’s script and premise. “Hunter’s this big dopey Great Dane who just couldn’t cut it as a police dog, but he has the heart of a lion,” Park says. “He’s very unsure of himself at the beginning of this journey but comes into his own through the help of his fellow strays. He’s the perfect example of not judging a book by its cover.”

Randall Park as Hunter

Once the dogs completed production on Strays, any animal who didn’t already have a permanent home with the trainers was found a loving one with screened individuals who would give their beloved new family member a fulfilling life. In fact, one of the dogs was adopted by director Josh Greenbaum. “When we brought in two adorable puppy Border Terriers to play young Reggie in an early scene of the film, it was made known to me that these dogs wouldn’t have a home after the shoot,” Greenbaum says. “So, I decided to adopt one of them and asked my kids to name him. They immediately said we’ve got to name him Reggie because he played Reggie in the movie. I came home after shooting the film, introduced Reggie to the family, and now I have Will Ferrell in my house.”

A dog film only for adults, rated R-16 by the local censors board, Strays is from Universal Pictures International and will open September 13 in cinemas nationwide.

August 30, 2023