The global jazz icon is set to perform in two major cities in the Philippines this March 2023. He will first visit the Queen City of the South – Cebu this March 25, 2023 at the SMX Sky Hall Seaside Cebu. This will mark the first time that the jazz icon has performed in Cebu City. Promising to bring Kenny’s signature brand of jazz to the live stage, Cebuanos can expect a performance of songs that capture the ‘heart and soul’ of those beloved Jazz Standards.
Tickets for Kenny G Live in Cebu 2023 are now available via SM Tickets (www.smtickets.com). Tickets are available for Php 11,260 which also includes a guaranteed chance to meet the icon after the show; Php 10,130 for VIP, Php 7,320 for CAT 1 and Php 5,070 for CAT 2.
The Manila show is slated to happen on March 29, 2023. More details to follow soon.
Kenny G Live in Cebu is brought to you by JP Entertainment, Red Spade. Organized by Jasper Entertainment Production and MakeitLive. Supported by AC Music Entertainment. Special thanks to SMX Sky Hall Cebu and Nustar Resort and Casino.
Kenny G is an award-winning saxophonist, the biggest selling instrumental musician of the modern era, and one of the best-selling artists of all time. With global sales totaling more than 75-million records and 1.5 billion streams, the jazz icon has accumulated a staggering 24-award nominations throughout his almost 50-year career and has taken home a Grammy Award, American Music Award, NAACP Award, and two Soul Train Music Awards. With classic, top-selling studio albums including Duotones, Silhouette, Breathless, Miracles: The Holiday Album, Heart and Soul and Brazilian Nights, Kenny has maintained a high level of creative excellence through decades of unprecedented commercial success.
With impressive G LensTM image quality, high-speed accuracy and tracking AF, and a smart design for maximum mobility and operability, this new lens is designed for a wide range of creators. The FE 20-70mm F4 G is the perfect choice for vlogging, movie production, and still portrait and landscape shots.
The Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G (SEL2070G)
According to professional photographer and Sony Philippines Product Expert Nicco Valenzuela, the FE 20-70mm F4 G is comparably lighter and more compact than most standard zoom lenses with a constant aperture. As a photographer himself, this lens will be of significant help when packing camera equipment for shoots. There are also instances when photographers do not want to carry a separate ultra-wide angle lens with them, so the capability of the FE 20-70mm F4 G to go all the way to 20mm wide is really handy and offers significant versatility.
“The introduction of the FE 20-70mm F4 G sees the standard zoom category of lenses redefined”, said Yasufumi Machitani, General Manager, Digital Imaging Division, Sony Electronics Asia Pacific. “The new concept lens has an incredible, ultra-wide zoom range from 20mm through to 70mm to ensure true versatility – perfectly designed for both still and video creators with its sophisticated imagery and high-level operability”, he added.
Compact and lightweight new standard zoom covers ultra-wide 20-70mm, the FE 20-70mm F4 G just weighs only 488g but offers outstanding optical performance in a remarkably compact, lightweight size thanks to Sony’s latest lens design and XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors technology. What’s more, the ultra-wide 20mm end of the zoom range makes it possible to maintain a wide angle of view when shooting video with a 16:9 or 2.35:1 aspect ratio.
Photographed by Nicco Valenzuela using the Sony α7R V. A side-by-side comparison of a shot taken with a 24-105mm lens (right) to the new Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G’s 20-70mm lens (left)
Outstanding image quality consistent with the G Lens logo
The new lens boasts unique G Lens image quality that produces a state-of-the-art optical design that simultaneously corrects chromatic and spherical aberration for extremely high optical performance across the whole zoom range. Optimized coatings add high flare and ghost resistance to this superior optical design, for extraordinary contrast and clarity. Furthermore, beautiful bokeh is achieved with full-frame image sensors and is further enhanced by a 9-blade circular aperture and optimally tuned spherical aberration.
“The implications of this in landscape and nature photography is that it focuses closer. By closer, I mean this can focus at 0.25 meters close, and this is significant because most standard zoom lenses can focus at around 0.32 to 0.38 at most. This can focus on details much closer, such as flowers and medium-sized insects which counts as near-macro capabilities. At the same time, focusing closer can help landscape photographers do focus-stacked wide images of vistas that create the most detailed output possible. Even more conveniently, this close focusing capability can be used in tandem with the new Sony α7R V’s automated focus bracketing mode that greatly simplifies the focus stacking workflow,” said Valenzuela.
Photographed by Nicco Valenzuela using the Sony A7RV camera with the Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G lens
Maximises camera AF performance for stills and video
The lens’s focus group is driven by two of Sony’s latest XD Linear Motors, providing high thrust for a fast, quiet, low-vibration focus drive. Thrust efficiency has been significantly improved over previous models[i], resulting in up to a 60% increase in AF speed.
Video performance designed for refined imagery
The FE 20-70mm F4 G reduces focus breathing as well as focus and axial shift when zooming to ensure that the highest quality images are captured.
AlphaTM series cameras’ Active Mode image stabilization is highly effective at the ultra-wide 20 mm end of the FE 20-70mm F4 G zoom range, providing excellent image stabilization performance, whilst maintaining a wide angle of view. This can be particularly useful for shooting smooth, stable handheld footage whilst walking.
Focus is especially critical when shooting high-resolution 4K or 8K movies. The FE 20-70mm F4 G works with AlphaTM series camera bodies to easily acquire accurate focus and smoothly track fast-moving subjects.
Photographed by Nicco Valenzuela
High-level operability and reliability for any environment The new FE 20-70mm F4 G’s independent focus, zoom, and aperture rings feature optimized diameter, width, and positioning for full control when shooting stills as well as maximum versatility when recording video.
The new FE 20-70mm F4 G is priced at P75,000 and will be available in select Sony Authorized Dealers nationwide starting February 17, 2023. Find out more information about the SEL2070G here: https://www.sony.com.ph/electronics/camera-lenses/sel2070g.
Development of New G Master™ 300mm F2.8 Telephoto Full-Frame E-mount Lens
In addition to this stunning new lens, Sony also announced the development of the long-awaited FE 300mm F2.8 GM OSS Telephoto lens that is set to launch in early 2024.
Large-aperture super-telephoto lenses like the FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS and FE 600mm F4 GM OSS are highly acclaimed by sports and wildlife photographers around the world for their outstanding resolution and AF performance. As such, the new lens will feature the incredible high-resolution and spectacularly beautiful bokeh of Sony’s acclaimed line of flagship G Master™ series lenses, whilst also offering a far-reaching 300 mm focal length and F2.8 large aperture. Follow /SonyPhilippines on Facebook and @sonyphinc on Instagram to stay updated on FE 300mm F2.8 GM OSS Telephoto lens announcements.
Unfortunately, most are in the rush toward their next task and often forget to look around. But when you get stuck in the most unconventional places, you might get to meet someone and get closer with them.
Stuck in the Elevator
Did you know the odds of being stuck in an elevator are 1 in every 100,000? The odds of being stuck with someone who’s your type, however, might be a little higher.
But if that does happen, first: don’t panic. You’re in a closed space so With more than 8 billion people in the world, there’s no shortage of potential love interests.
make the most of it, especially if you’re alone together. Keep the conversations light to get closer and once help comes, don’t forget to get their contact details!
During Overtime
Romance in the workplace is not something new. But so is stress-bonding when you and your office crush are both stuck in the same building to meet deadlines.
Make the move and get close by offering to buy dinner for both of you and take advantage of that by taking a break together.
In the Middle of Traffic
Filipinos in the metro lose approximately a week being stuck in traffic, leaving less time for most to go to work, have fun, or find the opportunity to meet someone.
Which is why on Valentine’s Day, closeup partnered with ride-hailing app JoyRide to launch #RideCloser, where free carpool rides were given to commuters.
Couples were paired according to their drop-off points, age, and personal preferences for a better chance to create AMA-ZINC moments and get closer while en route to their chosen destination. With icebreakers and fun Valentine-themed activities inside the car, most couples were able to hit it off right away and get closer!
Brent Manalo, the up-and-coming actor, model, vlogger, and everyone’s crush today, joined the activation and gave a lucky individual the opportunity to get closer with him despite the traffic! On his most recent Instagram post, Brent shared how he and his blind date “had so many things to talk about.” Brent even shared a selfie with her on his Instagram showing the pair enjoying their ride to Trinoma.
Through this partnership, closeup and JoyRide proved that romantic sparks can be found anywhere, even in the most unconventional spaces.
Which is why it is best to be prepared for those unexpected moments by using closeup, with Antibacterial Zinc, which blasts away 99.9% of bacteria to give you all day AMA-ZINC fresh breath (based on lab test, for up to 12 hours with regular use). When you have AMA-ZINC fresh breath, nothing will stop you from finding your meet-cute and getting closer!
Visit closeup and JoyRide’s social media pages to view what happened during the #RideCloser free carpool blind rides!
Global video streaming service Prime Video announced today that unscripted Korean show Jinny’s Kitchen, which features a cast of famous stars opening and running a Korean restaurant overseas, will be coming exclusively to the service. Actors Jung Yu-mi, Park Seo-jun, and Choi Woo-shik will be rejoining Lee Seo-jin in this new venture. Furthermore, V of the globally popular K-pop boy group BTS will be the team’s new castmate, rounding out the dream team. Prime Video customers in the U.S., UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam can watch new episodes of Jinny’s Kitchen every Friday, starting February 24. The show will launch globally in further countries exclusively on Prime Video later this spring.
The new series follows the success of the Youn’s Kitchen franchise, produced by leading Korean entertainment company, CJ ENM, which showed a cast of actors opening and running a small Korean restaurant overseas. Actor Lee Seo-jin will be stepping up as the leader of Jinny’s Kitchen and lead the team as they serve Korean street food in Bacalar, Mexico. Lee Seo-jin is an actor by trade, but interestingly, also has a business management degree from the New York University Stern School of Business. Park Seo-jun, Choi Woo-shik, and V from BTS are famously known to be close friends, and this is evident in how they joke around in the midst of the busy restaurant as they serve customers alongside Lee Seo-Jin.
“We know how popular Korean content is among our global Prime Video audiences, and when it comes to Korean unscripted shows there’s an air of the unexpected, anticipation, and excitements which fans will get from witnessing the real-life chemistry and friendship between the casts that build up over the season,” says David Simonsen, director Prime Video, Southeast Asia. “In the past year, Prime Video continues to boost its Korean TV series offerings for its customers globally, including exclusive K-dramas such as Love in Contract, and fantasy-action Amazon Original series, Island. We hope to delight fans of Korean shows with Jinny’s Kitchen, and are excited to see the show and this genre to find new audiences from different countries on Prime Video.”
Nah Yung Suk and Jang Eun Jeong, the directors of Jinny’s Kitchen, said, “All the cast has worked really hard in making Korean street food themselves. We expect fans to get very excited to see the five members’ struggles in their effort to satisfy international customers while running a Korean street food restaurant. We really hope this show will bring lots of fun and laughter to Korean and global viewers.”
Jinny’s Kitchen joins the thousands of TV shows and movies in the Prime Video catalogue, including exclusive titles from Southeast Asia, Korean titles such as Island and Love in Contract, anime hits such as Chainsaw Man, on top of award-winning and critically acclaimed Amazon Originals like The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, The Boys, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, and Emmy and Golden Globe winners Fleabag and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Prime Video members will be able to watch Jinny’s Kitchen anywhere and anytime on hundreds of compatible devices. In the Prime Video app, members can also download episodes on their mobile devices and tablets and watch anywhere offline at no additional cost. Find out more at www.primevideo.com and enjoy a seven-day promotional trial.
As a song dedicated to people with Down Syndrome, Ronnie Lee’s “Natatanging Nilalang” highlights all the characteristics that make these individuals special. Composed with a fondness for those who have the condition (he himself has a nephew who has Down Syndrome), Lee’s song is one of empowerment not only for these individuals, but also for their loved ones.
Empowering people with Down Syndrome and their families has been one of the advocacies of the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI). Since its establishment in 1991, the organization has been active in implementing initiatives that cater to these people, one of which is the Happy Walk for Down Syndrome in partnership with SM Cares.
Happy Walk for Down Syndrome is an annual event that gathers persons with Down Syndrome and their loved ones into a day-long family-oriented event filled with fun activities and entertainment. Held every February as part of the celebration of National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month, it aims to promote awareness and better understanding of those living with the condition.
“Happy Walk for Down Syndrome is all about bringing those with the condition and their families together. More importantly, the goal of the event is to give them a platform for their voices to be heard, so that the everyone can know more about them, about the challenges that they encounter every day, and what all of us can do to make life better for them,” said Engr. Bien C. Mateo, SM Supermalls Senior Vice President and SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs.
After a three-year break, DSAPI and SM Cares are once again holding a physical version of the long-running event this coming February 26 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City. Among the activities that the attendees can expect at this year’s event are the Happy Walk Parade and the ShowDOWN segment, where those with Down Syndrome can show off their talents. They can also expect games and fun activities offered at booths within the venue.
Interested participants may register through DSAPI’s official Facebook page or register onsite on the day of the event by visiting the SM Employees Booth at the Mall of Asia Music Hall from 7:30AM.
SM Cares is the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, with programs that support communities, promote social inclusion, and care for the environment. Aside from the program on PWDs, its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Children & Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative. To learn more, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.
Over the last few years, skincare has become synonymous with self-care as more Filipinos recognize the importance of looking and feeling like their best selves. New skincare products are carefully crafted to cater to the ever changing needs of shoppers with different skin types – whether it’s brightening dull skin, reducing the size of your pores, or preventing wrinkles early on. Kiehl’s newest Retinol Skin Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum does all of that for your skin and more!
Kiehl’s Micro-Dose Retinol Daily Serum
Kiehl’s Micro-Dose Retinol Daily Serum was specially formulated with three key ingredients to help your skin look and feel its best: pure retinol, peptides, and ceramides. Pure retinol helps steadily accelerate your skin’s turnover to bring fresh, new skin to the surface. While peptides work to enhance your skin’s integrity, helping it receive optimal and visible results. Lastly, ceramides strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier and enhance one’s tolerance of Pure Retinol. Each key ingredient works together to combat signs of aging and keep your skin looking visibly youthful.
Don’t sweat it, if you’re a first time retinol user! Skincare expert and dermatologist, Dr. Michelle Henry, recommends incorporating the serum into your skincare by following the sandwich method. This involves using a gentle cleanser and applying a layer of moisturizer before placing the retinol serum in order to diminish chances of irritation. With consistency, Dr. Henry says you should be able to see “early results at four weeks and final results at 12 weeks to most skin issues, including age-related concerns like fine lines and wrinkles.”
More Skincare Essentials from Kiehl’s to add to cart
Apart from the Retinol Skin Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum, look out for Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal-Extract Toner! This soothing alcohol free toner is infused with Calendula petals that balances normal-to-oily skin. It was designed to relieve skin from discomfort and improve the overall skin texture by reducing redness, excess oil, and appearance of pores in just 3 days.
For those looking to leave their skin looking extra plump, try Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream. This moisturizer provides instant and lasting 24-hour hydration for soft, smooth, and healthy-looking skin.
Whether you’re looking to combat signs of aging, improve your skin’s texture, or leave your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, Kiehl’s got something for everyone. Cop all these essentials and more holy grail skincare products at Kiehl’s official store on Shopee!
CELEBRATING the Love Month and the National Arts Month, the Cultural Center of the Philippines presents three film programs – Cine Icons, Cinema Under the Stars, and the CCP Arthouse Cinema – this February.
CINE ICONS, is a new program by the CCP Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division highlighting the cinematic masterpieces of film masters, including the National Artists of the Philippines for Film and Broadcast. On its soft launch, Cine Icons will feature National Artist Marilou Diaz-Abaya’s Brutal, written by another National Artist, Ricky Lee. Brutal is about a woman who after killing her husband and his friends goes into post-traumatic shock and withdraws from any form of communication. A feminist journalist becomes interested in the case and resolves to unravel the truth behind the murders.
Another film to screen alongside the film classic is a Gawad Alternatibo 2022 winner entitled, Lingkis by Yvonne Elizabeth Salazar and Isabel Margarita Valenzuela. The film mixes mythology, animation, and documentary to tell the story of a country plunged into darkness by repressive regimes visually depicted by a mythological serpent.
The Cine Icons soft launch screening will be held on February 17, starting at 1pm, at the PUP Theater, located inside the PUP Campus in Sta. Mesa, Manila, to be followed by a talkback by National Artist Ricky Lee. The event is made possible in partnership with the Polytechnic University of the Philippines and Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP).
Cinema Under the Stars (CUTS) returns for its first screening for 2023, featuring Real Florido’s Ist Ko Si Third on February 24, 5:00PM, at the CCP Annex Parking area.
A 2014 Cinemalaya Finalist under the New Breed Category, 1st Ko Si Third rediscovers the joy and pain of first love through the story of a 65-year-old retiree Cory who bumps into her first love named Third. When their first date is about to happen, Cory brings with her a handful of love letters she never gave to Third. She is now ready to give them to her first love. Will she discover that first love truly never dies?
The CCP Arthouse Cinema: Of Love and Revolutions presents the screening of Lingkis on February 24, 1-4pm, via Zoom. This online screening is specifically offered primarily for students and educators who continue conducting online courses.
All screenings are free to the public, on a first-come-first-served basis. For more information, call the CCP FBNM Division at 8832-1125 loc. 1705 or follow the official CCP social media accounts in Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tiktok for updates.
To say that Gil Francis Maningo is a multi-disciplinary artist is an understatement. This Cebuano wears many hats: as a photographer, a composer, an actor, a recording artist under the OctoArts label, graphic artist in the Chicago Sun Times Magazine, the founder of the brand of shirts dubbed as KULAS (Kusog ug Ligi-on ang Sugbuanon), a student of National Artist Jose Joya and Martino Abellana (“the Amorsolo of the South”), an ardent admirer of American-Indian art, a caricaturist and a visual artist. But for Gil, every role, well, practically everything is a manifestation of grace. And “to experience the illumination of grace in every aspect of life” is the message of his art.
Gil says that his faith in God’s plan gives him the courage to overcome challenges and fears. “Every person has something they cherish, whether conceptual, abstract, or tangible — lavish or miserly. It is a requirement in life that one holds dear to something. But we realize our treasure only when we step out and experience life as an adventure.”
Life is an adventure and Gil’s canvases are adventurous and colored with lightheartedness and controlled abandon. According to the artist: the tedious process of experimentation is an externalization of the gift of curiosity. “During the process of experimenting, one stumbles. But such is life.” Gil’s work exudes “a knight’s courage and a courtier’s confidence.” An observer notes how the artist’s works embody sprezzatura, which means a certain effortlessness, careless grace, a studied nonchalance. Gil’s works “conceal the conscious effort that went into each piece, often done with difficulty. Ultimately, with awe expressed, we are held as its audience.”
Viewers will get to see Gil Maningo’s adventurous forays in color and composition in “Foveo,” an exhibition of 19 paintings presented in cooperation by Robinsons Land’s ArtAblado in conjunction with Art Circle Gallery as part of National Arts Month. “Foveo,” which means “to cherish” in Latin, is on view until Feb. 25 at Level 3, near Sumosam, Robinsons Magnolia. The opening reception will be held on Feb. 18, Saturday.
The culmination of the show is a painting workshop to be facilitated by the artist and is open to 50 participants. Aspiring painters need to download the RMalls+ app and register; collect the free painting workshop voucher; and present the voucher code at the registration area.
RMalls Academy is Robinsons Malls’ learning platform. It aims to give fun and educational classes for everyone. This initiative gives the opportunity to mall-goers to maximize their learning potential and achieve their personal goals while inside Robinsons Malls. RMalls Academy offers various programs such as performing arts, visual arts, and different sports activities.
The workshop will give participants the chance to embark on artistic adventures of their own and maybe someday be like Gil: an artist who has “mastered the ebb and flow of allowing things to fall into place” and “one who surrenders as a medium of the Divine.”
That sense of play, the giving in to a higher self — to be experienced by the Gil Maningos in the making — are the reasons why painting is so undeniably fun and fulfilling.
Broadway International Group and Broadway Asia are pleased to announce that Karylle Tatlonghari and Markki Stroem will be joining the International Touring cast for its Manila Season of The Sound of Music.
Karylle Tatlonghari who is taking on the role of Baroness Elsa von Schraeder; the beautiful, cosmopolitan woman who has her eyes set firmly on the Captain. Markki Stroem will be playing the handsome Rolf, the delivery boy who has his eyes on the beautiful Liesl in “Sixteen Going On Seventeen”.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Karylle and Markki into the company.” says producer Marc Routh, “Having done many shows in Manila over the years with stars like Lea Salonga in Cinderella, Filipinos are known around the world over for their spectacular talents – so we when the opportunity for us to cast two roles out of the Philippines, how could we say no?” he continues, “…we are so excited to see them both step into these iconic roles. We have so much confidence in their abilities as performers and we are really looking forward for Filipino audiences to come and see them on stage.”
“When I found out that I got in, I started tearing up in front of my colleagues at the radio station – Tears of joy!… One of my greatest dreams is manifesting in front of my eyes. I am so excited to learn and grow from the International touring cast”, shares Markki. “My love of musicals began when I watched the movie Sound of Music as a 4-year-old, it was aspirational, I memorized all of the songs and dreamed of one day being part of this wonderful classic. “
Karylle and Markki will begin rehearsals in Manila over the next couple of weeks, and will be joined by the rest of the touring company at the end of the month.
“Imagine how I feel right now, I cannot contain my excitement.” Karylle says when asked about how she feels “I guess when a childhood memory becomes a reality, you are transported back to that time when you first fell in love with musicals – this is the moment when my childhood dreams and reality meet… in the most Bongga way!”
“I’ll be performing with Markki Stroem who I feel is equally thrilled. We’ve been planning our jogs around Circuit Makati to be in tiptop shape. And of course, the international touring cast, a first for me. I feel so good about it especially seeing the excitement of everyone who is excited to experience The Sound of Music to keep that child in them happy.”
Karylle and Markki will be joining Touring company members Jill-Christine Wiley as Maria Rainer, Trevor Martin as Captain von Trapp, and Lauren Kidwell as Mother Abbess, and Lauren O’Brien as Liesl. The Von Trapp children starring in the musical will join the company for the first time during the Manila production.
To enable more Filipinos to enjoy this highly acclaimed production, starting February 15, BPI credit cardholders can get up to 15% off on tickets to Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday evening performances. The following discounts apply for every card variant: 15% discount for BPI Visa Signature Card; 10% discount for BPI Platinum Rewards Mastercard and BPI Amore Platinum Cashback Card; and 5% discount for BPI eCredit Mastercard, BPI Blue Mastercard, Petron-BPI Mastercard, BPI Edge Mastercard, BPI Amore Cashback Card, BPI Gold Mastercard, and BPI Corporate Mastercard. These offers are valid until March 6, 2023.
“BPI is supportive of the arts and its many forms. Not only does it give immediate gratification for the senses, but it also enhances our relationships with ourselves and with our loved ones. The availability of these offers to our clients is one way of rewarding them,” said Jenny Lacerna, BPI’s Head of Unsecured Lending and Cards Sales and Products.
Tickets are available online at ticketworld.com.ph and TicketWorld outlets.
Theinternational tour of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s THE SOUND OF MUSIC, is presented by Broadway International Group, Broadway Asia, AMA Group of Companies, in association with GMG Productions.
The Sound of Music will be arriving soon in Manila from March 7th to March 26th 2023. The brand new international production is set to be staged at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati.
The Manila season is supported by BPI, Seda Residences Makati and Ayala Malls.
Today’s audiences and movie-buffs can enjoy watching all-time Pinoy cinematic classics this February as Sagip Pelikula brings more of its digitally-restored titles for free on ABS-CBN Superview via Star Cinema’s official YouTube channel.
Apart from the catalog of free-to-watch Kapamilya films of different genres, Star Cinema will also offer restored and remastered Filipino classics from different film outfits in crisp visual and audio quality—courtesy of ABS-CBN Film Restoration.
As these titles make their way to ABS-CBN Superview on YouTube, here are five of the digitally-restored films that you can add to your watchlist this February:
1) Captain Barbell
The Mars Ravelo fever continues following Darna’s sought-after run in primetime as Sagip Pelikula brings the restored version of one of the earliest film adaptations of his iconic works with the 1973 “Captain Barbell” starring the King of Comedy himself, Dolphy. Apart from his signature slapstick antics alongside Panchito and Babalu, the film also showcases Dolphy’s acting chops in doing action-packed scenes.
Follow the story of a wimpy but good-hearted man, Tenteng (Dolphy), who was left distraught after being rejected by the woman he loves. But his life would turn around upon astoundingly lifting a mystical barbell that would grant him super strength and abilities, transforming him into Captain Barbell—protecting citizens from the forces of evil!
What happens when two of the country’s premier actresses, Vilma Santos and Nora Aunor, share the big screen? It’s surely an epic drama-fest filled with intense emotions and hard-hitting confrontations, as shown in one of their collaborative projects, the 1978 romance-affair film “Ikaw Ay Akin,” co-starring Christopher de Leon.
Find out how two women, the long-time girlfriend Teresita (Nora) and the ‘other woman’ Sandra (Vilma), get entangled in a web stemming from an illicit affair as they share the same love for Rex (Christopher), whose guilt continues to haunt him due to his infidel acts.
Aside from its story and compelling directive work from renowned filmmaker Ishmael Bernal, the film will be known to many for its intense final staredown scene from both Vilma and Nora, letting only their expressive eyes do the talking for them—a true testament to effective ‘mata-mata’ acting.
Another must-watch restored title to add to audiences’ watchlists this February is the 1990 revenge-drama film “Kapag Langit ang Humatol,” top-billed yet again by the Star for All Seasons, Vilma, alongside Richard Gomez, Gloria Romero, and Charo Santos.
Relive how the oppressed housemaid, Florida (Vilma), exacts her vengeful retribution against the prominent family led by the stern matriarch Octavia (Gloria). Following a series of abuses under Octavia’s reign, which stemmed from her affair with the matriarch’s son Hector (Richard), she slowly rose to power and transformed into an influential mogul, thirsty for revenge against those who made her life miserable. But her vengeance seeps deeper when she finds out Octavia’s hidden secret in the years prior that would gravely affect her.
Viewers can also stream for free the 1984 experimental film “Soltero,” starring Jay Ilagan, Rio Locsin, and Chanda Romero.
From the story written by acclaimed playwright Bienvenido Noriega Jr., the film recounts the life of a 29-year-old bachelor Crispin (Jay), in his pursuit of finding love, hoping to end his melancholic misery of loneliness and despair.
And capping off the list is the coming-of-age drama movie “Moral,” written by National Artist for Literature Ricky Lee and directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya.
Its star-studded female cast, Lorna Tolentino, Gina Alajar, Sandy Andolong, and Anna Marin, portray four women from different walks of life, each tackling dilemmas of their own. But along the way, they find peace and joy in their strong friendship forged by their struggles.
Catch these digitally-restored films anytime for free on ABS-CBN Superview via Star Cinema’s official YouTube channel.
Apart from these titles, audiences can also watch more of Sagip Pelikula’s restored classics, including “Tag-Ulan sa Tag-Araw,” “Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos,” “Mga Bilanggong Birhen,” “Nunal sa Tubig,” “Ikaw Pa Lang ang Minahal,” “High School Scandal,” and “Hihintayin Kita sa Langit.” Visit youtube.com/ABSstarcinema to begin streaming.
For more details on its upcoming film showings, follow ABS-CBN Film Restoration on Facebook (facebook.com/filmrestorationabscbn), Twitter (@ABS_Restoration), and Instagram (@abscbnfilmrestoration).
