Paramount Pictures has released a gripping new trailer for “A Quiet Place: Day One,” inviting audiences to witness the chilling origins of a world plunged into silence. Scheduled for release in Philippine cinemas on June 26, this prequel promises to deepen the enigmatic saga that captivated global audiences.
The film stars an impressive ensemble including Academy Award winner Lupita Nyong’o, “Stranger Things” standout Joseph Quinn, Alex Wolff, known for his role in “Hereditary,” and Academy Award nominee Djimon Hounsou. Their performances are set to bring an intense depth to the gripping narrative.
Creative Minds Behind the Silence
John Krasinski teams up with Michael Sarnoski to craft a narrative that blends suspense with raw human emotion. The project also sees executive production from Allyson Seeger and Vicki Dee Rock, ensuring the film’s vision aligns with the original’s haunting allure.
Watch and Connect
Fans are encouraged to connect with the movie’s thrilling journey on social media using #AQuietPlaceDayOne and tagging @paramountpicsph. Don’t miss out on experiencing how it all began – where making a sound could mean the end.
“A Quiet Place: Day One” will open in cinemas across the Philippines on June 26, distributed by Columbia Pictures.
CREDITS ARE NOT FINAL AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
Ryan Reynolds, renowned for his high-energy comedic flair as Deadpool, is back with a sprinkle of magic in his latest role as Cal in the enchanting adventure-comedy IF. Set in a world where imaginary friends, or IFs, are real, Cal and young Bea (played by Cailey Fleming) are the only ones who can see these whimsical beings. Cal’s mission? To give forgotten IFs a new purpose by pairing them with kids who need a friend. Despite his efforts, success eludes him—until Bea steps in and changes everything.
A Role Tailored for Reynolds
Director-writer John Krasinski crafted the character of Cal with Reynolds in mind. “We needed someone who could play heart as well as humor, an expert at physical comedy who could create a very real relationship with Bea. Ryan is able to cover such a range of emotions and have such fun doing it.”
Krasinski praises Reynolds’ unique charm, stating, “He has the ability to draw everyone in with his likability,” says Krasinski. “And he is able to make the kind of emotional hairpin turns that most actors can’t. He has incredible timing. But more importantly, he understands that while timing can make you laugh, it can also make you cry. He just knows how to craft a performance.”
A Journey of Laughter and Heart
Executive producer John J. Kelly echoes Krasinski’s sentiments, emphasizing Reynolds’ unparalleled fit for the role. “The character is a lot like Gene Wilder in Willie Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. It needed someone who could be funny and light, but have the weight to bring this child through a journey of loss in a way that would mean something to everyone in the audience.”
Kelly highlights Reynolds’ dedication, noting his creative input. Ryan is always coming up with ideas for another way to do something,” he recalls. “The physical comedy in this film is amazing.”
Reynolds’ Personal Connection
Reynolds shares his perspective on the film’s intriguing theme of imaginary friends. ““The concept of imaginary friends is provocative and interesting,” he says. “IFs are usually created out of necessity. It’s an adaptive coping mechanism for kids who realize that they can’t rely exclusively on their parents for a sense of well-being. They have to find other ways to manage. They seek it by creating their own imaginary friends.”
Reflecting on his childhood, Reynolds reveals he had an imaginary friend, a teddy bear named Pookie, shared with his brother Jeff. “My brother Jeff and I shared this imaginary friend back and forth. It was a kind of weird bond we had. It’s something we still talk about today.”
A Whimsical Adventure Awaits
IF, rated G, is a whimsical tale that celebrates imagination and adventure, hitting Philippine cinemas on May 15.
About IF
From the imaginative mind of John Krasinski, IF follows a girl who discovers her ability to see everyone’s imaginary friends and embarks on a magical journey to reconnect these forgotten beings with their original kids. The film features an all-star cast including Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Cailey Fleming, Fiona Shaw, and the voices of Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr., and Steve Carell.
IF is produced by Allyson Seeger, Andrew Form, Ryan Reynolds, and John Krasinski. Catch it in Philippine cinemas from May 15, distributed by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Stay connected with #IFMovie and tag @paramountpicsph for updates!
Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
Welcoming a new chapter in the celebrated Planet of the Apes franchise, the Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, is now showing in theaters nationwide. The latest action-adventure film immerses audiences in a riveting world where apes rule and humans are struggling to survive.
Billboards of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes take over Metro Manila
Early reactions to the movie are now calling it a ‘new hope for the apes franchise.’ During its Hollywood premiere, the Wes Ball movie received overwhelmingly positive reviews—noting that the sequel can reel in non-fans with its new chapter while still spotlighting the time-honored legacy of Caesar for the franchise loyals.
In the Philippines, the reign of the apes is now in full swing. Proximus Caesar makes his mark all around Metro Manila— with his menacing gaze towering over passersby of buildings, street posts, and jeepneys— while media, content creators, and partners joined the Philippine premiere in Metro Manila, Iloilo City, and Pampanga City on May 7.
Guests at the Philippine premiere of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
Set in a post-apocalyptic landscape where the apes hold power and control, the 2024 movie spectacle tells the story of Noa, a young, naïve ape who doesn’t know anything about the outside world where the Apes’ previous leader, Caesar, has become a legend. Director Wes Ball shares, “If the last three movies were the apes in their stone age, now they’re entering their bronze age. We’re starting to see cultures develop within different clans. We see what has happened to the world.”
With a stellar cast featuring Owen Teague, Freya Allan, and Peter Macon, the Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is filled with riveting storytelling, thrilling action sequences, and breathtaking visuals. Likewise, the advanced special effects and groundbreaking motion-capture technology bring the apes to life in a way that feels intensely real, making this film a must-see cinematic experience to be enjoyed with family and friends on the biggest screen possible.
Witness the rise of a new era and catch Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes in theaters now, available in IMAX®, 4DX, and 2D cinema screens nationwide.
Follow 20th Century Studios on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube for more updates. Join the conversation and share your thoughts by using the hashtag #KingdomOfThePlanetOfTheApesPH.
Dive into the heart of nature’s most destructive force with the latest trailer for “Twisters.” This star-studded film features Daisy Edgar-Jones , Glen Powell, Anthony Ramos, and Brandon Perea in a gripping tale of survival against tornadoes. Prepare for the ride of your life as “Twisters” makes its grand entry into Philippine cinemas on July 17.
A Legacy Reborn
From the renowned producers of the Jurassic, Bourne, and Indiana Jones franchises, “Twisters” revives the thrilling spirit of the 1996 blockbuster “Twister.” Helmed by Lee Isaac Chung, the Oscar-nominated director of “Minari,” this epic sequel brings together an ensemble cast in a riveting battle against nature’s wrath.
Meet the Heroes
Daisy Edgar-Jones plays Kate Cooper, a former storm chaser whose past trauma from a tornado drives her to a safer life analyzing storm patterns from New York City. Coaxed back into the field by her old friend Javi to test a new storm tracking system, she finds herself clashing and collaborating with Tyler Owens (Glen Powell), a fearless social media star who documents his daring escapades online.
The Ensemble Cast
Joining the adventure are:
Anthony Ramos as Javi, the innovative mind behind the new tracking technology.
Maura Tierney, Golden Globe winner featured in “Beautiful Boy.”
Unleashing the Storm
Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a division of Warner Bros. Discovery, “Twisters” is poised to deliver a breathtaking cinematic experience. Mark your calendars for July 17, and be part of this edge-of-your-seat adventure that will pull you right into the eye of the storm!
Join the Conversation!
Engage with fellow fans and share your anticipation online using the hashtag #TwistersMovie. Witness the awe-inspiring power of tornadoes and join the storm chase of a lifetime with “Twisters.”
The latest set of films under the ‘Planet of the Apes’ franchise – ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes,’ ‘Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,’ and ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ – was actually a very satisfying, grand epic that had its own pulse, heart, and soul. Lead by the very charismatic Andy Serkis (even in a motion capture performance) as Caesar, the franchise has a solid foundation and history to build upon a larger world that continues from this first trilogy. This is how director Wes Ball, with screenwriter Josh Friedman, manages to skillfully bring the franchise forward, working on the legacy that Caesar has built while introducing new characters and a new facet of this world.
In ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,’ the story is set “generations later” after the death of Caesar and the world has changed. Humans have gone feral and lost the capacity of speech, and different clans of apes now roam the planet. One clan of apes, the Eagle Clan, live secluded from the rest of the world in a hidden valley. Here, they tend and bond with eagles and live relatively peaceful lives until another ape, Proximus, and his kingdom of apes have come to capture more to expand and strengthen his kingdom.
A scene still from 20th Century Studios’ KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.
We follow the story of Noa, a young chimpanzee, and son of the master of the birds. He and his friends are looking for eagle’s nest to take an egg to bond with, so they have an eagle of their own as they mature. It’s a ritual that members of their clan must undertake. The first twenty minutes of the film establishes this new world and the daily lives of the Eagle Clan. It’s wonderful world building, as Ball and Friedman do a fantastic job of making us recognize these characters and finding what makes them relatable.
But everything is torn upside down when Proximus’ people attack and burn everything down and Noa is left for dead, after he witnesses the death of his father during the assault. He must now explore the world outside his valley and discover the truth about the world. He will meet humans and other apes and discover the legacy of Caesar and a surprising discovery about the history of this world.
‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ is an excellent science fiction movie as it uses the conventions of the genre to truly iron out real world issues and problems. Interestingly enough, the world is now populated by different clans and species of apes, the new dominant life form, but the troubles that plague them now are not so dissimilar to the issues we face today. Compound upon this fact is that while humans have gone feral, there are other aspects to them that keep them as an integral part of the equation. This tension is only just beginning.
Ball and Friedman do not take a full-on action/adventure route though much of the film’s structure follows the classic hero’s journey. The film is at its best when it ruminates and explores the complexities of society and civilization and the morality of how the apes treat the humans. Noa because a wonderful foil to project our own questions and difficulties. It is one thing to be lawful and to be just, but it is also another thing to be righteous. They do not necessarily mean the same thing and in the ways by which Noa and Proximus collide and engage, these themes come jumping out into the fore.
The CGI effects and motion capture work is excellent as it really creates the illusion that these apes have taken over the planet. They have all the physicality of their species, but they also share and exhibit human mannerisms and behaviour. The voice acting of the cast – Owen Teague (Noa), Kevin Durand (Proximus), and Peter Macon (Raka, an orangutan, who is aware of the true legacy of Caesar) – really helps sell the story and add the depths needed that keep ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ an engaging film that we can all enjoy and also learn from.
The film boasts of an epic scope and scale, large themes about civilization and society, great big action pieces, and some wonderful acting through its motion capture and CGI technologies creating a grand science fiction spectacle that is just suited for the cinematic experience. There’s talk that this is the first of a new trilogy in the franchise. If this is the direction they are going, then I’m excited and eager to see what comes next.
Prepare for an explosive return to the world of Gru, Lucy, and their adorable children—Margo, Edith, Agnes, and Gru Jr.—as they face a brand-new challenge in “Despicable Me 4,” coming to Philippine cinemas on July 3. This latest installment from Illumination promises to blend heartwarming family moments with edge-of-your-seat action.
A New Threat Emerges
In the heart of this new adventure, Gru’s family finds themselves on the run from a formidable new antagonist, Maxime Le Mal, and his captivating sidekick, Valentina. As danger looms, Silas Ramsbottom steps out of retirement, devising a daring plan involving a groundbreaking super serum that transforms the beloved minions into elite agents—the Mega Minions.
Office Chaos to Mega Heroism
The trailer gives us a glimpse of the minions like never before. Donned in sleek suits, they navigate through mundane office life—complete with cubicles, birthday parties, and photocopiers—before chaos erupts. With their new roles, these Mega Minions are on a mission to ensure the safety of Gru and his family.
Star-Studded Voices Bring Life to New Characters
Voiced by returning talent including Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, and the iconic Pierre Coffin as the minions, the film also introduces new characters voiced by notable stars such as Joey King, Stephen Colbert, and Chloe Fineman, adding fresh flair to the beloved franchise.
Don’t Miss the Mega Action!
“Despicable Me 4” promises to deliver non-stop action and Illumination’s trademark subversive humor. Be sure to catch it in Philippine cinemas starting July 3. Follow along for updates and exclusive content on Universal Pictures PH social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Chris Pratt embraces the role of the beloved lasagna-loving cat, Garfield, in the eagerly anticipated “The Garfield Movie,” set to premiere in theaters on May 29, 2024.
An Indoor Cat’s Outdoor Saga
In “The Garfield Movie,” audiences will witness the indoor orange cat, famous for his disdain for Mondays and love for lasagna, embark on an unforeseen wild adventure. After reconnecting with his estranged father, Vic, voiced by Samuel L. Jackson, a rugged street cat, Garfield and his loyal canine companion, Odie (voiced by Harvey Guillén), find themselves catapulted from their comfortable lives into a daring, laughter-filled heist. The star-studded voice cast further includes Hannah Waddingham, Ving Rhames, Nicholas Hoult, Cecily Strong, and Snoop Dogg.
A Modern Garfield for a Modern World
“This is a 2024 Garfield. As the world has evolved, so too has Garfield, and his perfectly pampered life has become even more easy,” says Pratt about this latest version of Garfield, one that has kept up with the times! “He’s become even lazier because he can order his lasagna with a simple click of a button. There’s nothing bad about his life except for Mondays. But in this movie, he’s going to be forced to get out of his house and go on an adventure that he is entirely unprepared for – and he’ll have to rise to the occasion… and through all of that, we’ll see how and why he got to be the way he is. This is about what makes Garfield Garfield.”
“With any challenge, Garfield’s attitude is, how hard can it be?” says director Mark Dindal (The Emperor’s New Groove, Chicken Little). “So, when he goes into the outside world, he’s never intimidated. He’s sure that everything is going to go smoothly. That was a lot of fun to play with, especially as we exaggerated the stakes to absurd, life-or-death levels.”
Experience the Excitement
Don’t miss “The Garfield Movie,” a production of Columbia Pictures and a local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, as it brings laughter and adventure to the big screen on May 29, 2024. Dive into Garfield’s world as he navigates the complexities of life outside his comfort zone in this action-packed narrative.
Level up your humpday! Escape the daily grind and immerse yourself in a cinematic adventure this week. This week’s movie releases offer a variety of experiences on the big screen. From futuristic battles for dominance to spine-tingling bargains with the dark side, this week’s lineup is filled with excitement. Ready for an epic showdown?Journey to a future Earth ruled by apes in “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.” Feeling a thrill for chills? Delve into the chilling grip of dark magic in “Bag of Lies.” Craving high-octane action? Pierce Brosnan delivers a pulse-pounding revenge story in of “Fast Charlie.” Yearning for a history buff twist? Take a journey through the Philippines’ pre-Islamic past with “The Blood Brothers.” So grab your movie crew and get ready to be entertained on the big screen this week.
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
In a world where apes reign supreme and humans linger in the shadows, the legacy of Caesar lives on in “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.” Set in a future where the balance of power has shifted, this action-packed adventure follows the journey of a young ape who dares to challenge the status quo. With a tyrannical leader on the rise and the fate of two species hanging in the balance, prepare for an epic showdown that will redefine the meaning of survival. Starring Owen Teague, Freya Allan, and Kevin Durand, this sci-fi spectacle is bound to leave audiences on the edge of their seats!
Enter a world of dark magic and chilling consequences in “Bag of Lies,” where desperate measures lead to terrifying outcomes. When Matt turns to an ancient relic in a last-ditch effort to save his wife, he unwittingly unleashes a chain of events that will test his sanity and morality. As the lines between reality and nightmare blur, prepare for a spine-tingling journey into the unknown. Featuring John Wells, Madison Pullins, and Patrick Taft, this haunting thriller will keep you guessing until the very end.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 30 mins ACTION, CRIME, DRAMA BUY TICKETS
Buckle up for a high-octane thrill ride with “Fast Charlie,” a gripping tale of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. When Charlie Swift’s mentor meets a tragic end, he vows to take down the ruthless crew responsible, no matter the cost. With adrenaline-pumping action and heart-stopping twists at every turn, this adrenaline-fueled drama is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Starring Pierce Brosnan, Morena Baccarin, and James Caan, get ready for a wild ride you won’t soon forget!
2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 34 mins ACTION, DRAMA GET SCHEDULES
The film explores the story of two brothers whose bond is tested by their pursuit of knowledge. One brother’s journey for education creates a cultural divide, driving a wedge between them. Set against the backdrop of cultural upheaval, two siblings find themselves torn apart by destiny’s cruel hand. As their paths diverge, they must confront the demons of their past and forge a new legacy.
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:
Get ready to be thrilled! With a wide range of genres hitting theaters this week, there’s bound to be a movie (or two!) that will make you want to hit that “buy ticket” button. Whether you’re a fan of heart-pounding action or spine-tingling suspense, these new releases and fan favorites still showing have something for everyone. So grab your popcorn, gather your friends, and head to the nearest cinema to catch these must-watch films this week!
This May, Dev Patel, the Oscar-nominated actor known for his roles in “Lion” and “Slumdog Millionaire,” makes his directorial debut with “Monkey Man,” a film that promises to redefine action cinema. Opening in theaters on May 15, the movie has been dubbed the “South Asian John Wick” by critics for its intense action and gripping narrative.
Dev Patel: From Actor to Martial Artist
Dev Patel has not only written and starred in “Monkey Man” but has undergone a rigorous training regimen to prepare for his role. Fight coordinator Brahim Chab, known for his work on “The Foreigner,” praises Patel’s dedication: “Dev is one of the hardest working filmmakers I ever worked with. He would come to practice with me and the stunt team once in the morning and again in the afternoon. He embraced the choreography I created for the film but also brought his own suggestions that always made a lot of sense for me to adjust the fights to the story.”
Inspired by the Legend of Hanuman
“Monkey Man” draws inspiration from the story of Hanuman, the Hindu deity symbolizing wisdom and strength, and tells the story of Kid, a man seeking vengeance against corrupt leaders responsible for his mother’s death. Kid’s journey from an underground fighter to a vengeful hero is punctuated by spectacular fight sequences, including a climactic battle that is poised to be a cinematic highlight.
A Blend of Global Action Influences
Patel, a fan of Korean and Indonesian action cinema, has incorporated elements from influential films like “The Man from Nowhere” and “The Raid.” The collaboration with some of the producers behind “John Wick” and members of “The Raid” team adds a unique flavor to the movie’s action scenes.
A Fight to Remember
The film’s final showdown is particularly notable. “The final showdown with Rana was one of my favorites to create,” Chab says. “We got them both ready separately, so that when they meet… there are fireworks. The result we got out of both was beyond anything I imagined. They performed the whole fight by themselves without any doubles or camera tricks. I am certain that this fight will satisfy the audience.”
Acclaim from Hollywood
Producer Jordan Peele expressed his astonishment at the quality of action, noting, “I walked in thinking perhaps the action would be what a first-time director’s action might look like,” Peele says. Instead, he was stunned by it. “The action topped the best action films around. Dev was able to act in these sequences that were so well choreographed, had such fluidity, had so much character to the action. I know that, as an action and a revenge film, this is going to be huge.”
Catch “Monkey Man” in Theaters
“Monkey Man” is set to captivate audiences with its compelling story and breathtaking action. Be sure to catch it in theaters starting May 15 for a film that is as emotionally resonant as it is thrilling.
‘Tarot’ is the kind of old-school horror that foregoes character development, or even plot, and is only interested in setting up the frightening parts and the jump scares. It’s the kind of film where the characters have no real lives outside of this movie. They have no past except for those that are needed for this particular event and, sometimes, it only comes up when it’s needed to keep the story moving. Because the film is all about the shock and surprise factor, it is ridiculously fast-paced and relentless in its suspense that watching the whole 92-minute run time can be exhausting.
The film, directed and written by Spencer Cohen and Anna Halberg is about a group of friends who rent out an old mansion in the Catskills, in the middle of nowhere, to celebrate a birthday. When they run out of beer, they decide to search the house to see if it has any liquor left. One member finds a door with a “Keep Out” sign and decides to break it open to reveal a staircase leading down to the basement where old antiques re kept. They find a box with hand painted tarot cards and decide to have one of their friends who knows how to use it give them all a reading.
Of course, the tarot reader, Haley, begins by saying “It is bad luck to use someone else’s cards” but they push her anyway. The readings are descriptive and connected with each character’s astrology sign. It’s a long segment that can be very derivative and pedantic and seems like a callout to the trend of the younger set very steeped into the esoteric. I’m into astrology and tarot myself, at some point in my life, but even I found it annoying.
From the get-go, I already didn’t like these people. Sure, their friendship was quickly established – and what’s great is that they really felt like friends with some dynamic that was easily established – but the way by which they searched the house for liquor and the fact that they were all okay with breaking a locked down of the rented mansion and touched antiques to quell their boredom already told me that I was going to side with the monster in this movie.
Of course, the tarot cards are cursed and Haley’s readings for each of her friends start to come true. The figures in the tarot come to life and start to kill them one by one. The film actually reminds me of the classic horror franchise ‘Final Destination.’ The deaths have already been laid out in the tarot reading segment in the first act and all we have to do is watch them unfold.
Outside of the curse coming to get them, there’s nothing else really in this film for us to latch on to. They say they are students, but we never see them study or go to school. We never see them really interact with anybody (except two detectives who question them after the first death) so there’s no feeling that this is an actual place or people that can help us endear these characters to us.
Sure, Haley and Grant, her former boyfriend who she just broke up with before the film starts, has some tension but with the film focusing so much on the killing of people one by one, it hardly takes any time to develop these feelings or the tension.
The imagery is so dark and editing is so quick and fast-paced, it’s really meant to disorient you and to raise up the dread level and then surprise you with a jump scare. The whole film feels like it’s 80% that and 20% of the characters interacting with each other. Sure, there’s a moment where they talk about the history of the tarot cards but it’s all just lip service.
The film tries to make a statement about how we can sometimes leave our fates into the hands of external forces – faith, destiny, chance, or whatever – and that it tries to embolden us to fight it and make our own way. But it really doesn’t handle that message well. What happened to them, after all, was their fault for touching things they should not have and so it’s a hard lesson to sell when there’s no sympathy coming from my side. If you’re a fan of brainless horror with relentless jump scares, then this is your kind of movie.
My Rating:
Tarot is now showing. Check screening times and buy tickets here.
