Category: Movies

Anya Taylor-Joy Unleashes Her Inner Fury in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

When George Miller, the visionary behind the “Mad Max” franchise, speaks about Anya Taylor-Joy, his words paint the picture of a relentless force of nature. In “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga“, Taylor-Joy doesn’t just act; she embodies the essence of Furiosa, the indomitable warrior. This isn’t just a performance—it’s a transformation. Miller notes, “There’s something resolute and ferocious in her, seen vividly on the screen.”

From Early Recognition to Leading Lady

It was Taylor-Joy’s early performances that caught Miller’s eye—first in “The VVitch”, and later in a sneak peek of “Last Night in Soho” provided by Edgar Wright. What stood out was her fierce presence. “There’s something very compelling about her,” Miller recalls. “She’s not just present; she’s piercingly intense, even when dancing or singing. This physical precision she brings is, undoubtedly, a testament to her emotional depth as well.”

The Journey of Becoming Furiosa

For Taylor-Joy, Furiosa was more than a role; it was a personal odyssey. “The moment I read the script, I knew this role would blur the lines between character and reality for me,” she shares. Her connection to Furiosa was profound, making the fierce warrior not just a character she played, but a persona she lived during filming.

Training for Battle: Strength Beyond the Physical

The preparation for the role was rigorous. Taylor-Joy underwent intense training, which she describes as transformative, making her stronger than ever. “The real workout was the filming itself—maneuvering around the War Rig and performing stunts,” she explains. This physical ordeal wasn’t just about building muscle; it was about embodying strength, resilience, and determination.

A Cinematic Experience Like No Other

“Furiosa” promises to be a monumental film, not just in its action sequences, but in its emotional and narrative depth. “This film transcends the word ‘epic’. It’s a journey—intense, cathartic, and empowering,” says Taylor-Joy. She hopes the film will inspire, particularly young women, to realize their strength and potential.

The Saga Continues

“Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” is not just a continuation but a new chapter in the storied “Mad Max” universe. The film, set against a post-apocalyptic backdrop, features Furiosa’s quest for redemption and survival amidst chaos. Directed by George Miller and penned alongside Nico Lathouris, this standalone adventure explores new territories, both geographically and emotionally.

Star-Studded Cast and Global Anticipation

Alongside Anya Taylor-Joy, the film boasts performances from Chris Hemsworth, Alyla Browne, and Tom Burke. As the film makes its debut, it is set to captivate audiences worldwide, distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures.

Join the Epic Journey

“Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” is set to arrive in Philippine cinemas on May 22. Pre-order your tickets at furiosa.com.ph and join the conversation using #Furiosa.

This all-new original, standalone action adventure, directed by George Miller and co-written by Miller and Nico Lathouris, stars Anya Taylor-Joy in the title role, alongside Chris Hemsworth, Alyla Browne, and Tom Burke. Produced by Miller and his longtime partner, Oscar-nominated producer Doug Mitchell, under their Australian-based Kennedy Miller Mitchell banner, the film promises to be an unforgettable journey.

Don’t miss out on what is sure to be one of the most talked-about films of the year. Catch “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga“ in theaters and experience the ferocity, the emotion, and the epic adventure that awaits.

May 21, 2024
Apocalyptic Love and Survival in “Love You As The World Ends” – Coming to PH Cinemas on June 12

Get ready for a heart-pounding journey of love and survival as “Love You As The World Ends” hits Philippine cinemas on June 12. This highly anticipated film, based on the hit horror-television series co-produced by Nippon TV and Hulu Japan, brings the intense story of a group of survivors navigating a zombie apocalypse to the big screen. Directed by Shintaro Sugawara, who helmed the original series that dominated Hulu charts for two consecutive years, this movie promises to be a gripping experience.

A Tale of Love and Determination

The plot follows Hibiki Mimiya, portrayed by Takeuchi Ryoma (famous for his role as Shinnosuke Tomari in Kamen Rider Drive), as he embarks on a desperate mission to save his daughter, Mirai. Having endured the heartache of losing his partner, Kurumi Ogasawara, Hibiki is now fixated on rescuing Mirai, who has been taken to Utopia – a once-promising sanctuary now overrun by chaos and zombie-like creatures known as Golems.

The Fight for Survival

Hibiki’s quest leads him to infiltrate Utopia, where he discovers a group of researchers working on a cure, sequestered at the top of this dilapidated refuge. His daughter, Mirai, is believed to hold the key to developing a vaccine against the Golem transformation, making her capture all the more urgent.

In his journey, Hibiki forms a reluctant alliance with other men, each driven by their personal quests. Among them is Shibasaki Yamato, played by Takahashi Fumiya (the voice of Aruto Hiden in Kamen Rider Zero-One), who is determined to find his beloved Hatori Aoi, whose fate in Utopia remains uncertain.

Will Love Conquer All?

As these characters navigate treacherous terrain and face unimaginable horrors, their love and determination are put to the ultimate test. “Love You As The World Ends” offers a thrilling exploration of whether fate will reunite them with their loved ones amidst the apocalyptic chaos.

Don’t miss this edge-of-your-seat adventure when “Love You As The World Ends” opens in Philippine cinemas on June 12. This Encore Films production is distributed by Warner Bros., bringing an unforgettable cinematic experience to audiences nationwide.

May 20, 2024
MOVIE REVIEW: The faulty metaphor that plagues the family-friendly film ‘IF’

There are several structural problems that is plaguing John Krasinski’s latest writing and directing effort, the family friendly ‘IF,’ which kind of makes the film feel like a major misfire from the filmmaker behind the brilliant ‘A Quiet Place.’ While the latter film was so cohesive in terms of its metaphor and the family dynamics, ‘IF’ suffers from a lack of any real backstory that can ground the characters to a plot line that can make you feel like the story is getting somewhere. It doesn’t help that the aforementioned IFs – an acronym for Imaginary Friend – plays out like a metaphor that isn’t representing anything really clear.

‘IF’ is about a young girl, Bea (Cailey Fleming), who goes to live with her grandmother (the brilliant Fiona Shaw) while her father (John Krasinski) prepares for an undefined operation. Bea has already lost her mom to what looks like cancer, so she is guarded, reserved; putting up a brave front. But while living in her grandmother’s apartment (where she grew up as a kid), she begins to see imaginary friends, animated beings who have been abandoned by their kids when they grew up. Her new neighbor, Cal (Ryan Reynolds) can also see them and together, they try to find new kids for the imaginary friends to bond to so that they don’t “disappear” or go away.

With a cast that includes such big names like Ryan Reynolds and John Krasinski, plus the voice acting of people like Steve Carrell, Emily Blunt, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Sam Rockwell, and so many others; while wrapped up in the tender genre of a built-for-children family drama with lots of CGI characters, you’d think that this would be a sure-fire hit that would be impossible to not get right.

But there are a lot of holes that doesn’t quite get answered by this film that stops it from finding its stride. So, if the imaginary friends are all cut out from their kids because they grew up, how come those who are children now don’t seem to have any of their own? While Bea goes to visit her father at the hospital, she meets Benjamin (Alan Kim), who is recovering from an accident. He doesn’t have his own imaginary friends and becomes a potential new child to bond with the older IFs. But how come the current children don’t seem to have any?

And then, despite moving back to New York City, Bea can enter and leave her grandmother’s house without any fanfare. I’ve never been to New York, but I find it so distant from reality that a young girl could walk around the city streets – sometimes at night – without any adult situation in these scary, and dangerous times. Much more, with a stranger she just met that week. Sure, it’s Ryan Reynolds, but he’s a grown man who can also see IFs.

We don’t know much about Bea and her dad and her mom, though we understand by the implications of flashbacks and quick montages that the loss of the mom had a profound effect on her. It’s why Bea seems so mature and old at the start of the movie. She echoes Ryan Reynold’s Cal in the way he seems so bothered or frustrated by this whole IF business but the moment she is introduced into their world, she suddenly makes a 180 degree turn and does a full-on dance number (to a Tina Turner song) that includes all the abandoned IFs and to annoy Cal even more. It’s tiny shifts like these that create an inconsistency of character and plot that pervades throughout the film that does not allow it to land any of its emotional moments.

In fact, there’s an overuse of a lovely score by Michael Giacchino that relentlessly plays over everything, trying to underscore what should be emotional moments but they don’t quite get there.

Other than the inconsistency, the biggest issue is that the Imaginary Friends are supposed to serve as a metaphor for never losing your inner child – something that can be related to Bea’s father’s inability to take anything seriously – and while that makes for a good premise of a movie; the imaginary friends and their goal for finding new kids to connect with doesn’t quite figure into the overall theme the movie is trying to push. When the theme finally does come through, the whole story pivots but it doesn’t really play out the rewards and consequences of this realisation in any significant manner. There’s a lot of happiness and congratulating happening – as one would expect as the film serves as a family-friendly affair – but we don’t know why, and we don’t know what for.

At a hundred and four minutes, close to two hours, this movie never managed to find its stride and never really managed to pin down their characters or the world-building to a place that allows you to enjoy what is happening. For a filmmaker who managed to score a home run in his first outing with ‘A Quiet Place,’ I feel the marketing may have been too generous with its hyperboles when they were selling this movie. This isn’t the charming little family comedy it’s dressed up to be.

My Rating:

IF is now showing. Check screening times and buy tickets here.

May 19, 2024
MOVIE REVIEW: A cynical hero’s journey, ‘Monkey Man’ is an impressive debut by Dev Patel as a director

There was a peculiar realization to watching the trailer of ‘Monkey Man’ on the big screen that made me a little nervous about watching the film. When I first saw the film’s trailer on social media, I watched it in the little screen of my phone and found the visuals absolutely stunning. The gritty images compounded by the dark color schemes that are suddenly punctuated by bright flashes of light or color; the hard-hitting action scenes that is amplified by the fast-cuts and stirring use of music: I was spellbound by what I saw and couldn’t wait for the release. But the moment I saw the same trailer on the big screen, something was diminished. The shots were so close to their subject, everything was in extreme close-up, the power that was emanating from my cellphone screen was gone in the big screen.

When I finally saw ‘Monkey Man’ in the big screen, it has a similar effect, but it creates a tension in the film that somehow adds to its magic.

Directed and co-written by Oscar nominated actor Dev Patel, ‘Monkey Man’ is the story of a man who is hell bent in taking revenge for the destruction of his home and the murder of his mother. Patel (with co-writers Paul Angunawela and John Collee) follow a sort of mold of revenge films that creates context through its relentless violence. On the top of my head, I can think of films like ‘Kill Bill Part One’ (as I’ve not seen Part Two), the first ‘John Wick,’ and just recently ‘Boy Kills World’ that represents this genre of moviemaking. The story starts with the Monkey Man, who earns a living fighting in an underground fight club wearing a monkey mask (hence the name), already making his moves to take down the corrupt chief of police, Rana Singh (Sikandar Kher), who beat his mother and set her on fire while his men torched his village.

The film takes its time to show us Monkey Man’s motivations, showing us just flashes of imagery triggered by sights and sounds that he experiences on his path of vengeance. He discovers that Rana (and his boss) frequents a high-end brothel called Kings. He makes his way to find work there and get inside so he can get closer and closer to his target. Along the way, his mission allows him to witness the harsh class disparity between the rich and the poor in the city of Yatana, and how the elite class has corrupted the city with their greed, drugs, corruption, and prostitution. Through his journey, he will see the growing popularity of a populist leader disguising himself as a spiritual guru rallying the people to his side while the marginalized groups are harassed and abused much like the farmers of Monkey Man’s home and another set of outcasts: a transgender community living in a temple.

The extreme close ups I was complaining about runs rampant through this film and it gives a sense of claustrophobia and an absence of scale and size, for a film that has such large themes adjunct to its main story. And that’s when I realized, as the film goes on, and Monkey Man’s purpose seems resolute and single-minded in its fury, that the film’s framing of this world is so tiny because the protagonist’s on view is so small. He can only see his revenge.

Patel wanted to create an action thriller with a lot more to offer, including his own culture, and he does in droves. He opens his film with a story of Hanuman, a deity who appears in the shape of a monkey. The imagery and his stories are interspersed into the narrative and Monkey Man takes on this mantle, but he does not envision himself as the hero that a film in this genre may set him up to be. It’s all there, really. But, no, Patel infuses Monkey Man with such a ferocious, singular desire and that’s for revenge. It’s why I feel the camera does not open up. It’s why the social commentary this film makes about the corruption and brokenness of Indian society – in the reality created by the film – never feels addressed or judged. It’s there. It’s present. It causes such suffering, but the film only merely follows Monkey Man.

It’s such a confident, purposeful directorial vision for the first-time director. There’s such a wonderful texture that he creates on screen with the juxtaposition of the worlds of the rich and poor – the neon, luxurious excess of the brother Kings and how it compares to the alleys and side streets that Monkey Man escapes too when it all gets too much. At one moment, you’re listening to dance music from the club and the next moment, you are watching a hard-hitting fight scene to heavy metal music. I’m not an expert in South Asian films or the Bollywood aesthetic but from the little I know; the indulgence of style is heavy in this film and I’m all for it.

It’s visceral experience that revels in its blood and gore with no real intent for redemption or grace or reason. ‘Monkey Man,’ as a movie, is a sort of cynical and jaded hero’s journey with no real catharsis waiting for you at the end. It’s a hell of a ride if you’re up to it.

My Rating:

Monkey Man is now showing. Check screening times and buy tickets here.

May 18, 2024
“Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” Honors Workers, Offers Free Rides on Labor Day, and Pays Tribute to an Iconic Filipino Symbol

Filipinos were in for a wild ride as Warner Bros. Pictures, in anticipation of the opening of “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” unveiled the Furiosa jeepney, which offered free rides to commuters on Labor Day, May 1, as a celebration of all workers who use the essential vehicle in their daily commute to work. The one-of-a-kind ride is a concept that explores both the post-apocalyptic look of the Mad Max vehicles and the ingenuity of the Filipino design. The jeepney activation pays homage to the iconic Philippine mode of transport, and hopes to honor it by giving it a global spotlight.

The jeepney had pick-up and drop off points at the LRT Buendia station and SM Mall of Asia, from 8AM to 3PM. Riders who hopped on the jeep also received exclusive “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” freebies.

Watch the Furiosa jeepney give out rides and tour around Metro Manila:

The Furiosa jeepney also traveled throughout Metro Manila during the weekend, with the help of partner exhibitors SM, Ayala, Megaworld, and Gateway. On May 4 the tour started, covering the southern area with stops at the Venice Grand Canal Mall, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay. The jeepney made its final stop for the day in front of the SM Mall of Asia Globe, ending the first leg of the tour.

On May 5 the jeepney blazed through the rest of the region with stops at SM Megamall, Robinsons Galleria, Eastwood, and SM North EDSA. The Furiosa jeepney tour ended at Gateway 2, with the jeepney being showcased along with the trailer for the highly anticipated new Mad Max film playing across the Quantum Skyview.

“Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” tells the tale of how the legendary Furiosa came to be, and how she rampaged through the Wasteland to return from where she was taken. Watch the action unfold as “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, starring Anya taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth, storms into Philippine cinemas on May 22. Pre-order your tickets at www.furiosa.com.ph .

About “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga”

As the world fell, young Furiosa is snatched from the Green Place of Many Mothers and falls into the hands of a great Biker Horde led by the Warlord Dementus. Sweeping through the Wasteland, they come across the Citadel presided over by The Immortan Joe. While the two Tyrants war for dominance, Furiosa must survive many trials as she puts together the means to find her way home.

This all-new original, standalone action adventure was directed by George Miller, script by Miller and “Mad Max: Fury Road” co-writer Nico Lathouris. The film was produced by Miller and his longtime partner, Oscar-nominated producer Doug Mitchell (“Mad Max: Fury Road,” “Babe”), under their Australian-based Kennedy Miller Mitchell banner.

Starring Anya Taylor-Joy in the title role, Chris Hemsworth, Alyla Browne and Tom Burke.

In cinemas May 22, 2024, “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

Join the conversation using #Furiosa

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

May 17, 2024
Thrilling Action and Comedy Explode in the Final Trailer for “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” Starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence

The world’s favorite Bad Boys are back with their iconic mix of edge-of-your-seat action and outrageous comedy, but this time with a twist: Miami’s finest are now on the run. This action-packed ride takes the duo out of their comfort zone, and the result is nothing short of spectacular – Bad Boys: Ride or Die.

Directed by the dynamic duo Adil & Bilall, known for their visually stunning and fast-paced directing style, Bad Boys: Ride or Die promises to be an unforgettable experience. The screenplay, penned by Chris Bremner, delivers sharp wit and a storyline that keeps you guessing. Produced by the legendary Jerry Bruckheimer alongside Will Smith, Chad Oman, and Doug Belgrad, this film is destined to be a summer hit.

The executive producer team includes industry heavyweights Barry Waldman, Mike Stenson, James Lassiter, Jon Mone, Chris Bremner, and Martin Lawrence, ensuring the film is top-notch in every aspect.

Meet the Star-Studded Cast

The film stars the unbeatable duo, Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, who bring their A-game as Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett. Their chemistry is electric, and their comedic timing is flawless. Joining them is a stellar supporting cast including: Vanessa Hudgens, Alexander Ludwig, Paola Nuñez, Eric Dane, Ioan Gruffudd, Jacob Scipio, Melanie Liburd, Tasha Smith, Tiffany Haddish and Joe Pantoliano.

Each actor brings depth and charisma to their roles, adding to the film’s dynamic ensemble.

Heart-Stopping Action

From the very first scene, Bad Boys: Ride or Die throws you into a whirlwind of explosive action sequences. Whether it’s high-speed car chases through the streets of Miami or intense shootouts, the film never lets up. Fans of the franchise will be thrilled with the innovative stunts and special effects that push the envelope.

Hilarious Comedy

Of course, it wouldn’t be a Bad Boys movie without the laugh-out-loud comedy. Smith and Lawrence’s banter is as sharp as ever, delivering plenty of quotable lines and memorable moments. Their comedic escapades balance the film’s intense action, providing a perfect blend of thrills and laughs.

A New Twist

This time, the Bad Boys are not just chasing criminals; they are on the run themselves. This twist adds a fresh dynamic to the story, forcing Mike and Marcus to rely on their wits and each other more than ever. The plot is filled with unexpected turns that will keep you glued to the screen.

Behind the Scenes

The making of Bad Boys: Ride or Die was a colossal effort, with a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of action-comedy filmmaking. The direction by Adil & Bilall is visually striking, utilizing Miami’s vibrant backdrop to enhance the film’s energy. The script by Chris Bremner is tight and engaging, balancing character development with fast-paced action.

Jerry Bruckheimer’s production expertise shines through, ensuring that every scene is polished and impactful. The executive producers, including Smith and Lawrence, have worked meticulously to stay true to the spirit of the franchise while injecting new life into the series.

Release Date

Mark your calendars for June 5, when Bad Boys: Ride or Die hits theaters nationwide. Distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, this is one cinematic event you don’t want to miss. Stay connected with the latest updates by following the hashtag #BadBoys and tagging @columbiapicph on social media.

Get Ready for the Ride of Your Life

If you’re a fan of high-octane action, gut-busting comedy, and a storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat, Bad Boys: Ride or Die is the movie for you. Will Smith and Martin Lawrence deliver performances that are both nostalgic and refreshingly new. With its top-tier production, stellar cast, and thrilling plot, this film is set to be a summer blockbuster.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

May 17, 2024
Meet the Cast of “The Garfield Movie” in Theaters May 29

Get ready to embark on an exciting adventure with Garfield in the all-new, all-animated “The Garfield Movie“! Opening in cinemas on May 29, this film promises laughter, fun, and a dash of mischief with your favorite lasagna-loving, Monday-hating cat and his quirky friends. Let’s get to know the pawsome characters bringing this story to life.

Garfield
Voiced by Chris Pratt

Garfield is everyone’s favorite lazy, quick-witted, and comedic cat. Known for his love of lasagna and disdain for exercise, Garfield embodies the dream of doing nothing all day long. Despite his lazy demeanor, Garfield’s occasional “workouts” include walking to the fridge, turning over in bed, and lifting his fork to eat. He enjoys a pampered life with his owner Jon and their faithful dog, Odie.

Chris Pratt, the filmmakers’ top choice for Garfield, perfectly captures the character’s sarcasm and laziness. Director Mark Dindal humorously remarks, “Chris just captures that laziness and sarcasm in his natural voice.”

Jon Arbuckle
Voiced by Nicholas Hoult

Jon’s life changed for the better when he adopted Garfield after a chance encounter at Mamma Leoni’s restaurant. A cartoonist by trade, Jon works from home, often falling asleep at his draftsman table. With Garfield and Odie by his side, Jon feels he has the perfect family.

Producer Andrew Kosove praises Nicholas Hoult, saying, “Hoult’s performance is both funny and empathetic.”

Odie
Barked by Harvey Guillén

Odie, the loyal and sweet dog, is Garfield’s faithful companion. Always eager to help, Odie has a keen sense of introspection and is often the voice of reason. He is Garfield’s emotional anchor and the glue that holds their little family together.

Vic
Voiced by Samuel L. Jackson

Vic, Garfield’s estranged father, is a street-smart, larger-than-life cat. Known for his ability to charm and con his way through life, Vic brings mischief and adventure wherever he goes. His mysterious disappearance long ago adds to his enigmatic character.

Samuel L. Jackson’s performance brings both humor and emotion to Vic. Producer Broderick Johnson notes, “Sam brings comedy, but also tremendous emotion, and he balances them very successfully – as well as anybody in the business.”

Jinx
Voiced by Hannah Waddingham

Jinx, a British cat with dreams of stardom, fell on hard times and joined Vic’s criminal crew. After a heist gone wrong, she was sent to the pound. Feeling betrayed by Vic, Jinx escapes, determined to seek revenge.

Director Dindal comments, “I think the performance she gave inspired the animation and made her a rich, sympathetic villain. Of course, she can’t succeed, but you understand where she’s coming from.”

Otto
Voiced by Ving Rhames

Otto, a former mascot for Lactose Farms, now spends his days grazing near his beloved Ethel in a petting zoo. His determination to rescue Ethel leads him to join Garfield and Vic on their heist.

Producer Kosove shares, “When the character was written, we didn’t think of anyone other than Ving Rhames to play Otto, the lovelorn bull.”

Roland and Nolan
Voiced by Brett Goldstein and Bowen Yang

Roland and Nolan are Jinx’s henchdogs, providing comic relief with their unique personalities. Roland, a rotund Shar Pei, and Nolan, a narrow-shouldered whippet, formed an alliance with Jinx while in the pound.

Marge
Voiced by Cecily Strong

Marge, Lactose Farms’ head of security, is tough and shrewd. With a Minnesota accent, she takes dairy protection very seriously, willing to do whatever it takes to keep intruders out.

Producer Kosove says, “Cecily came in and created the voice of that character in a unique way.”

The Adventure Begins

In “The Garfield Movie,” Garfield’s pampered life takes an unexpected turn when he reunites with his long-lost father, Vic. Joined by Odie, the trio embarks on a high-stakes heist, leading to a wild outdoor adventure.

Don’t miss the fun and excitement when “The Garfield Movie” hits cinemas on May 29. Join Garfield and his friends on their crazy escapade! #GarfieldMovie

May 17, 2024
Watch the Trailer of Colleen Hoover’s “It Ends with Us,” Starring Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni

Lily Bloom’s story is now open for everyone to see. The highly anticipated movie adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s best-selling novel, “It Ends with Us,” is finally here. The film stars Blake Lively as Lily Bloom, Justin Baldoni as Ryle Kincaid, and Brandon Sklenar as Atlas Corrigan. Directed by Justin Baldoni, “It Ends with Us” promises to bring the beloved novel to life, offering an emotional and gripping experience for fans and newcomers alike. Mark your calendars because this movie opens exclusively in cinemas on August 7.

A Tale of Strength and Resilience

“It Ends with Us” tells the compelling story of Lily Bloom (Blake Lively), a woman who has overcome a traumatic childhood to start anew in Boston. Driven by her dream of opening her own flower shop, Lily’s life takes an unexpected turn when she meets the charming neurosurgeon, Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni). Their connection is immediate and intense, but as they fall deeper in love, Lily begins to see troubling similarities between Ryle and her parents’ tumultuous relationship.

When Lily’s first love, Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar), reenters her life, everything she thought she knew is upended. With her heart torn between the past and the present, Lily must find the strength to make an impossible choice for her future.

“It Ends With Us” Author Colleen Hoover and Director Justin Baldoni

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni Lead the Ensemble

The film boasts a stellar cast, with Blake Lively taking on the role of Lily Bloom. Known for her versatile acting skills and captivating screen presence, Lively is set to deliver a performance that fans of the book will cherish. Joining her is Justin Baldoni, not only as the director but also as the charismatic Ryle Kincaid. Baldoni’s dual role adds a unique layer to the film, ensuring that the emotional depth of the story is captured authentically.

Brandon Sklenar stars as Atlas Corrigan, the man from Lily’s past who reawakens old memories and emotions. The supporting cast includes talented actors like Jenny Slate, Hasan Minhaj, Amy Morton, and more, each bringing their own magic to the film.

Bringing the Book to Life

Justin Baldoni, known for his work on “Jane the Virgin,” brings his directorial prowess to “It Ends with Us.” His vision for the film, combined with a screenplay by Christy Hall, promises to stay true to Colleen Hoover’s original narrative while adding cinematic elements that enhance the storytelling.

Produced by Alex Saks, Jamey Heath, and Christy Hall, the film is a collaborative effort to translate the powerful themes of the novel to the screen. Fans can expect an emotional rollercoaster that stays true to the essence of the book.

Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively

Exclusive Cinema Release

“It Ends with Us” is set to open exclusively in cinemas on August 7. Distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, a local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, the film is sure to be a hit among Filipino fans of the novel and moviegoers looking for a heartfelt drama.

Make sure to follow the conversation online with the hashtag #ItEndsWithUsMovie and connect with Columbia Pictures Philippines on social media @columbiapicph for the latest updates and exclusive content.

Get ready to immerse yourself in Lily Bloom’s world. “It Ends with Us” is more than just a movie; it’s a story of love, resilience, and the power to break the cycle of the past. Don’t miss out on this cinematic experience. See you in cinemas on August 7!

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

May 17, 2024
Everyone Deserve a Chance to Fly. Watch the official trailer for Jon M. Chu’s big-screen adaptation of “Wicked,” starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo

Get ready to fly and defy gravity. Watch the fantastical trailer for “Wicked,” the big-screen adaptation of the record-breaking Broadway musical of the same title. “Wicked” the movie features an all-star cast led by Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, and Ariana Grande as Glinda.

Watch the trailer below:

“I want people to see ‘Wicked’ and experience it in a way they’ve never experienced it before,” says director Jon M. Chu. “I want them to feel what I felt going into that theater for the first time. I want to make them laugh, to make them sing, to make them feel that after they’ve watched it they’ve been changed for good.”

“Wicked” is the untold story of the witches of Oz. The movie adaptation stars Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman gilded by privilege and ambition, who has yet to discover her true heart. The two meet as students at Shiz University in the fantastical Land of Oz and forge an unlikely but profound friendship. Following an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads and their lives take very different paths.

The film also stars Oscar® winner Michelle Yeoh as Shiz University’s regal headmistress Madame Morrible; Jonathan Bailey (“Bridgerton,” “Fellow Travelers”) as Fiyero, a roguish and carefree prince; Tony nominee Ethan Slater (Broadway’s “Spongebob Squarepants”) as Boq, an altruistic Munchkin student; Marissa Bode in her feature-film debut as Nessarose, Elphaba’s favored sister; Emmy winner Peter Dinklage as Dr. Dillamond, and pop culture icon Jeff Goldblum as the legendary Wizard of Oz.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu (“Crazy Rich Asians,” “In the Heights”), “Wicked” opens in cinemas November 27. #WickedMoviePH Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG) and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest updates on “Wicked.”

May 16, 2024
“Monkey Man” – A Riveting Directorial Debut by Dev Patel Captivates Critics, Now in Cinemas

The cinematic world welcomes a thrilling new entrant with “Monkey Man,” marking the directorial debut of Oscar® nominated actor Dev Patel, known for his impactful roles in “Lion” and “Slumdog Millionaire.” Currently captivating audiences in cinemas, this film promises a visceral experience that resonates deeply on the big screen.

An Ode to Grit and Dynamism

“Monkey Man” exudes a raw, kinetic energy that grips viewers from start to finish. Cinematographer Sharone Meir praises the film’s cohesiveness and its ability to visually and emotionally engage the audience, stating, “I’m proud of how cohesive and unified the feel and the look of the movie is. I’m proud of how we managed to let the audience not only see, but almost smell, the gritty, dirty, sweaty, nature of the environment it takes place in – versus the plush and glamorous world of the rich. I’m proud of how energetic, kinetic and raw it is…moviemaking with big kahunas! It takes a great director, with a true vision, to achieve that.”

Dev Patel describes his passion project as a blend of chaos and beauty, where tension brews to an explosive climax, showcasing exhilarating action sequences. His portrayal of Kid, the protagonist driven by vengeance, marks a significant milestone in his career, positioning him as a potential titan in action cinema, “It’s chaos. It’s beautiful. It brews and it boils, and then explodes with the most insane action.”

Critically Acclaimed and Audience-Approved

“Monkey Man” has earned a Fresh certification on Rotten Tomatoes, a testament to its broad appeal and critical acclaim. Industry reviewers have praised Patel’s dual role as lead actor and director. Looper.com highlights his impressive dual contributions, noting, “Monkey Man” is an “impressive effort from Patel not only as a performer, but also as a first-time writer and director.” They also lauded Patel for his portrayal of Kid, saying that the film “cements him as a rising action star of his generation, with more magnetism and intensity than the majority of his contemporaries.”

Deadline Hollywood commends Patel’s “kinetic direction and tense fight sequences,” which are deeply infused with Indian folklore, heralding him as a promising figure in the future of action cinema.

Lauded the Associated Press: “‘Monkey Man’ makes for a forceful directorial debut from Patel. More than anything else, he brings a compelling gravity to a film that is quite serious about getting seriously brutal.”

“He’s managed to craft a rare action movie that makes you think and also will joyfully plunge a metal rod into a dude’s brain,” USA Today said in praise of Patel’s directorial debut.

A Tale of Vengeance and Virtue

Inspired by the legend of Hanuman, “Monkey Man” interweaves themes of wisdom, strength, and courage with a gritty narrative of revenge. The protagonist, Kid, navigates a corrupt and violent world, his path marked by personal loss and a relentless pursuit of justice against those who oppress the powerless.

Drawing inspiration from cult-favorite action films and Korean revenge-action cinema, alongside iconic series like “John Wick,” “Monkey Man” is set to be a memorable addition to the action thriller genre.

Catch the Thrill in Cinemas

Experience the intense and transformative journey of Dev Patel’s “Monkey Man,” now showing in cinemas across the nation. Don’t miss this explosive action thriller that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat!

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May 15, 2024