In every action film, breathtaking sequences not only hold the audience’s attention but also highlight the ingenuity and commitment of the stunt team. “The Fall Guy,” directed by former stunt performer David Leitch, showcases this spectacularly, with each stunt echoing the peak of cinematic artistry.
Masterminds Behind the Madness David Leitch, together with producer Kelly McCormick, set out to create an unparalleled visual experience. By engaging top-tier talent such as Chris O’Hara, who received the pioneering credit of “Stunt Designer,” they’ve redefined roles within the industry. This new title appreciates the creative essence of designing high-octane scenes, a testament to the strategic ingenuity behind each sequence.
Kelly McCormick notes, “If widely utilized, it may lead to greater overall recognition of the artistic contributions the stunt community provides our industry.”
Spotlight on Diversity and Skill The team’s diversity is its strength, with Jojo Eusebio, a part-Filipino fight coordinator, bringing his rich experience from projects like “John Wick” to ensure the stunts resonate with authenticity and precision. Eusebio expressed his reverence for his mentors, Leitch and O’Hara, and the profound impact of their guidance on his career.
Stunt Highlights That Set Records
The Cannon Roll: Logan Holladay set a new Guinness World Record with a breathtaking eight and a half vehicle rolls on a specially prepared beach setting, pushing past the limits of traditional stunt performances.
The Alma/Colt Chase: Filmed on the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, this sequence ditched CGI for raw, practical effects, with Ryan Gosling performing adrenaline-pumping maneuvers in real traffic.
The 225-Foot Car Jump: Logan Holladay again shines with a truck jump over 225 feet across, demonstrating the blend of technical prowess and audacious spirit that defines the film.
The Boat Jump: With a ramp leading to an 80-foot leap, and Ryan Gosling at the helm after obtaining his boating license, this stunt was both a logistical and visual feat.
The High Fall From Helicopter: Troy Brown’s record-setting 150-foot fall from a helicopter into a meticulously sourced high-rated airbag showcased extreme dedication and skill, reflecting the movie’s ethos.
“In ‘The Fall Guy,’ Ryan Gosling’s character, Colt Seavers, exemplifies the unsung heroes of cinema — the stunt performers. From breathtaking falls to explosive crashes, they ensure the magic of movies impacts every viewer, all while weaving through a gripping narrative about a stuntman tackling life’s stunts,” McCormick adds.
Experience the art of cinema and stunts melded into one with “The Fall Guy,” premiering May 1 in Philippine cinemas. #TheFallGuyMoviePH
Set in an unnamed city surrounded by forests and with no recognizable culture or ethnicity, ‘Boy Kills World’ is a violent, action-packed (yet comedic) revenge story that comes off more like a video game at times. There is a commentary here about how authoritarian regimes breed the sort of violence that is at the heart of this story, but it gets muddled in all the graphic displays of it. There is a tender space in this narrative, but it can get overshadowed by all the blood and gore.
This city is ruled by the iron-first of the Van Der Koy dynasty. It’s matriarch, Hilda Van Der Koy (Famke Janssen), has put an annual event, a culling, where revolutionaries and “enemies of the state” are executed in public. Our protagonist, a child called Boy (Bill Skarsgard) manages to survive one culling where he lost both his mother and sister (and was rendered deaf and mute as well). He was taken in by a mysterious man called the Shaman (Yayan Ruhian), who trains him to be a weapon with the sole purpose of assasinating Hilda Van Der Koy. His internal world is narrated by a voice (H. Jon Benjamin) from an old arcade fighting game he used to play with his sister (Quinn Copeland).
Boy eventually gets his chance to take his revenge and sometimes guided, sometimes hindered by the hallucination of Nina, he enters in the lion’s den where he goes up against HIlda Van Der Koy, her army, and her family, played by Michelle Dockery, Brett Gelman, Sharlto Copley, and Jessica Rothe.
The film can be pretty straightforward. Boy trains and becomes a deadly human weapon and then, as he is older, he makes a go out of killing Hilda Van Der Koy. On the way, he meets up with the members of the resistance (Andrew Koji and Isaiah Mustafa) and manages to interact with the Van Der Koy family and we see a sort of deconstruction of what it probably feels like to be a part of despotic family.
‘Boy Kills World’ plays off like a video game. Everything is hyper-real. The acting is overt and pronounced. It’s not a place for subtlety (except for Skarsgard, which I’ll get to later). Everything is big and explosive. Everything is fast-paced, relentless, and merciless. There’s some fantastic fight choreography that never lets up. It’s hard-hitting and brutal. In fact, it is sometimes shaky and cut so fast that we sometimes don’t understand the sense of place and time. What we do see is when the punches land, when the knives cut, when the blood spurts out, and the bones break. There’s a lot of emphasis here on the brutality. At first it feels fun and thrilling and exciting. After the first hour, though, it feels senseless and overdone.
The commentary on this kind of revenge seems very one-sided but interesting to delve into. We are living in a world of despots and authoritarian regimes. They lord over the people with such power that they can kill indiscriminately, and it fosters the kind of rebellion that will want to pay back blood with blood. Boy, in his killing spree, is positioned as someone with a justification for his homicidal rage. HIs family was killed, and he was trained and almost brain-washed to be nothing but a killer. But as the film unfolds and the way he wreaks havoc upon the Van Der Koy’s and their army (there’s a vicious fight scene involving a cheese grater that is going to be unforgettable) starts to put into question how much joy are we to take from all this violence?
What keeps the film grounded is Bill Skarsgard fantastic performance. His physicality and his ability to embody the role of a human weapon is terrific. I believe him. And without a single bit of dialogue (his character is mute), he is able to portray a vast number of feelings that is narrated in a hilarious manner by H. Jon Benjamin. Benjamin’s lines were written with a sort of naivete since he’s the voice of Boy’s inner monologue. He never had a childhood, and he never grew up in a normal world. In a way, he is still a little boy who knows nothing but to kill and this is represented by his monologue. Skarsgard then translates this perfectly with his facial reactions and it completely humanizes. It’s an amazing work that is enjoyable to watch throughout this film.
While the fight scenes get more and more intense, especially those that involve the Shaman and Rothe’s character, strangely a woman called June 27 (and this is never explained). These two people and Boy have the best fight scenes and are saved up for last. It’s almost like a ballet except it’s brutal and deadly.While the film manages to find a tender heart by the end, it’s a lot of bloody, gory violence to get through. It never pretends to be anything deeper than a revenge film, though it does a pretty good 180 degree turn by its end that somehow softens the films hard edges but other than Bill Skarsgard’s portrayal of Boy.
Imagine a world where apes call the shots and humans are relegated to the fringes. That’s the reality in “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” the upcoming epic hitting Philippine theaters on May 8. To celebrate its arrival, the cast and filmmakers gathered in London for a special screening, offering a taste of the film’s opening act.
(L to R) Joe Hartwick Jr., Kevin Durand, Freya Allan, Owen Teague, Andy Serkis and Wes Ball attend the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ at BFI IMAX Waterloo, London, on April 25, 2024. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)
Stars Owen Teague, Freya Allan, and Kevin Durand joined director/producer Wes Ball and the legendary Andy Serkis, who brought Caesar to life in the previous trilogy, for a night unlike any other. The BFI IMAX® theater in London buzzed with excitement as fans filled the seats for a first look at the film’s first 32 minutes. Hosted by Edith Bowman, the event also showcased a special montage, further amping up the anticipation for this summer’s must-see movie.
(L to R) Edith Bowman, Andy Serkis, Kevin Durand, Freya Allan, Owen Teague and Wes Ball attend the Q&A at the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ at BFI IMAX Waterloo, London, on April 25, 2024. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)(L to R) Edith Bowman, Andy Serkis, Kevin Durand, Freya Allan, Owen Teague and Wes Ball attend the Q&A at the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ at BFI IMAX Waterloo, London, on April 25, 2024. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)
An Exclusive Preview Night
The special screening not only highlighted key scenes but also included a montage that set the stage for this next chapter in the renowned 20th Century Studios franchise. With “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” director Wes Ball—known for his work on the “Maze Runner” trilogy—brings a fresh vision to the epic narrative, continuing the saga several generations after Caesar’s reign.
Andy Serkis attends the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ at BFI IMAX Waterloo, London, on April 25, 2024. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)(L to R) Freya Allan, Andy Serkis and Owen Teague attend the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ at BFI IMAX Waterloo, London, on April 25, 2024. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 25: Freya Allan attends the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” at BFI IMAX Waterloo on April 25, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures UK)(L to R) Andy Serkis, Wes Ball, Freya Allan, Owen Teague and Kevin Durand attend the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ at BFI IMAX Waterloo, London, on April 25, 2024. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” opens in movie theaters in the Philippines on May 8, 2024, and will be available in IMAX®, Dolby Cinema®, 4DX, ScreenX, and premium screens everywhere.
Director Wes Ball breathes new life into 20th Century Studios’ global epic franchise set several generations in the future following Caesar’s reign, in which apes are the dominant species living harmoniously, and humans have been reduced to living in the shadows. As a new tyrannical ape leader builds his empire, one young ape undertakes a harrowing journey that will cause him to question all that he has known about the past and to make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike.
Star-Studded Cast and Visionary Crew
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is directed by Wes Ball (the “Maze Runner” trilogy) and stars Owen Teague (“IT”), Freya Allan (“The Witcher”), Kevin Durand (“Locke & Key”), Peter Macon (“Shameless”), and William H. Macy (“Fargo”). The film is written by Josh Friedman (“War of the Worlds”), based on characters created by Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver (“Avatar: The Way of Water”), and the producers are Wes Ball, Joe Hartwick, Jr., p.g.a. (“The Maze Runner”), Rick Jaffa, p.g.a., Amanda Silver, p.g.a., Jason Reed, p.g.a. (“Mulan”), with Peter Chernin (the “Planet of the Apes” trilogy) and Jenno Topping (“Ford v. Ferrari”) serving as executive producers.
Get ready for a spine-chilling adventure! M. Night Shyamalan, the iconic filmmaker known for his mastery of suspense, is back with his newest thriller, “Trap.” The movie is set to hit Philippine cinemas on August 7, but fans can catch the first trailer now, which promises an electrifying blend of suspense and drama.
When a Concert Becomes a Conundrum
“Trap” tells the story of a father and his teenage daughter who attend a pop concert, looking forward to a night of music and fun. However, their night takes a dark turn when they become embroiled in a sinister and mysterious event. The film explores their fight for survival in a scenario filled with unexpected twists—a hallmark of Shyamalan’s storytelling.
Star-Studded Cast Brings the Story to Life
The film stars Josh Hartnett as the protective father with Ariel Donoghue playing his daughter, making her a significant figure in the unfolding drama. The cast also includes Saleka Shyamalan, the esteemed Hayley Mills, and Alison Pill, each bringing depth and intensity to this thrilling narrative.
First Glimpse of Suspense
The first trailer for “Trap” has been unveiled, setting an eerie, high-stakes tone for what will undoubtedly be another Shyamalan classic. The preview hints at the intense emotional and physical challenges the characters face, wrapped in the atmospheric tension that fans eagerly anticipate from Shyamalan’s movies.
Mark Your Calendars for a Thrilling Experience
As “Trap” prepares to thrill Philippine audiences, be sure to watch the gripping trailer and prepare for a movie that promises to keep you guessing until the very end. This film is a must-see for fans of psychological thrillers and admirers of Shyamalan’s unique cinematic style.
John Krasinski, renowned for his ingenuity in “A Quiet Place,” unveils his long-awaited comedy adventure “IF.” This film brings to life a world where imagination reigns supreme, helmed by an ensemble cast led by Ryan Reynolds.
Genesis of ‘IF’
The concept of “IF” germinated in Krasinski’s creative mind about seven years ago. Originally inspired by the notion of imaginary friends, Krasinski envisioned a narrative that celebrates creativity and the boundless realms of imagination. “It’s been a dream to bring this story of ‘IFs’ to the screen,” Krasinski shares. Ryan Reynolds adds, “John has always envisioned this project as a live-action experience that echoes the wonder typical of Pixar animations.”
Stellar Cast and Characters
“IF” boasts an exceptional cast, featuring voices from Hollywood’s finest including Steve Carell, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, and Maya Rudolph. Fiona Shaw portrays the spirited grandmother of protagonist Bea, played by Cailey Fleming. Shaw remarks, “This film thrives on active imagination, a trait that John splendidly brings to life on set.”
The Plot
“IF” unfolds the tale of a young girl who discovers she can see everyone’s imaginary friends. Armed with this newfound ability, she embarks on a magical quest to reunite these forgotten friends with their children. It’s a journey that promises laughter, surprises, and heartwarming moments.
Worldwide Release and Expectations
Scheduled for release in Philippine cinemas on May 15, “IF” promises to be a delightful cinematic experience for audiences of all ages. With its unique premise and an all-star cast, the film is set to captivate imaginations and celebrate the power of creativity.
Connect with ‘IF’
Join the adventure and connect with the magic of “IF” by following the hashtag #IFMovie and tagging @paramountpicsph on your social media platforms.
While dressed up as a romantic comedy, ‘Elevator’ is actually a far more interesting movie than what it pretends to be. It has all the conventions of the genre: it has its meet-cute, the enemies-turned-to-love interest plot line, its ridiculously good-looking cast, and so much more; but the film hits harder as a love letter to migrant workers with hopes and dreams for making it big.
https://youtu.be/lOXbhWmqh-s?si=AdpxsduTIsm8LdR2
Director and writer Philip King manages to situate the majority of his film into the tiny world of elevator operator Jared (played by Paulo Avelino), who breaks protocol by trying to do a literal elevator pitch to all the VIP clients of the upscale hotel casino he works in. Jared has been working different jobs in different parts of the world and he’s come up with an app that would help migrant workers connect with potential employers. He has group of friends all working in the hotel and all from different countries and they are working together to help Jared score an investor.
What’s refreshing about ‘Elevator’ is that it presents a different side of overseas foreign workers. This isn’t a story of exploitation or desperation, which are important narratives, but we already have films like ‘Hello, Love, Goodbye,’ ‘Sunday Beauty Queens,’ and ‘Imbisibol’ to tell those stories. On the flip side, there are Filipinos with skill sets and potential, and they have hopes and dreams of making it big. It’s an aspirational story that showcases the hard work and street smarts (or as we call it: diskarte) that our countrymen have to employ to achieve their dreams. These dreams are personal and singular, which is a refreshing change from the usual narratives. It continues the trend started by films like ‘Hello, Love, Goodbye’ and ‘Never Not Love You,’ which explore the idea of going abroad and making money for oneself. It’s nice to see a movie that realizes what this dream would look like.
When Jared actually makes a connection with a rich businessman, Byron (Adrian Pang), he ends up having to work closely with Byron’s executive assistant Bettina (Kylie Versoza), who is also Filipino and is not easily swayed by Jared’s charm and passion. What starts off as a prickly relationship turns into something more friendly, warmer as Jared wins Bettina over and the two start to understand each other more. But things are complicated – Bettina is not single, and Jared is still trying to get Byron and Bettina to invest in his company – and the challenge helps form the foundation of the rom-com.
What makes this movie work is that Philip King is serious about his app. The conversations about the development of the business plan sounds legit (even if I know nothing about business or apps) but it helps create a believable world for these two characters to come together and fall in love. And in the discussion of the app, we see Jared as a good person who is passionate about all this. Coupled together with Paulo Avelino’s charm and conviction, it makes sense that Kylie Versoza’s Bettina would be swayed. This is Paulo Avelino’s best work in a long time; not bogged down by his superstar persona. He conjures up an everyman quality and it softens him and makes his Jared instantly likable. I have not seen this quality in him in a long time and it’s great to see it again.
This is my fist time to see Kylie Versoza on screen and she’s so magnetic. I like her instantly and she infuses Bettina with intelligence and maturity. I feel, though, that there are times when she comes off as too stoic or cold because her make up can be so strong and she’s dressed up too much like a girl boss that it is hard for Versoza to play for Bettina’s softer, vulnerable side. She’s so gorgeous, with such strong, hard features that, with the styling that was put upon her, it was difficult for her to show off Bettina’s soul. She’s excellent when she’s playing it tough and cool, but she is fighting against the look that her character must reveal the other facets of her. There are moments when it happens, and it’s wonderful, but it’s something that she has get through.
The rest of the cast is incredible, though. Chai Fonacier, as one of Jared’s friends at the hotel is always enjoyable to see and she gives the film and warm heart and a sense of home for the film as much as his other friends (Shrey Bhargava, Shaun Lim Shi Yang, Shahid Nasheer, Rishi Vadrevu) give that sense of camaraderie that keeps the film from getting too small. Everyone is such a natural talent that it makes the friendship feel real. Adrian Pang, as Byron, is also excellent as he creates the necessary tension for Jared and Bettina.
What’s enjoyable about this film is its representation of a different set of Filipinos and writer and director Philip King never treats his film like some travelogue for Singapore. At the beginning, most of the scenes are trapped within the confines of Jared’s elevator. As his relationship with Bettina opens up, we see them in various parts of the hotel or in the city, but it never feels like a tourist video. It treats Singapore as a matter of fact, without highlighting it or its tourist spots, it situates Jared and Bettina as people of the world. It makes them fit in. And what a wonderful sight that is to see Filipinos fitting in wherever they go. What a wonderful way to represent us – as people of the world.
King also does some very interesting things, directorially. Like when he first introduces us to Bettina, he takes a male gaze shot of her. Versoza, dressed in a revealing outfit with a plunging neckline, is our first look at the character. Later, as one of Jared’s friends is keeping tabs of her whereabouts in the gym, he is looking at her from toe to head, emphasizing how good her body is. I thought that this sexualization of her was going to be rampant in the film. Interestingly enough, the moment Jared realizes she’s not a bad person (and thankfully, it’s early in the film) the camera stops objectifying her and puts her face as the focus rather than her body. The male gaze was only there when the characters objectified and then it stopped when they realized it was wrong.
While I’m a little bothered by the verbosity of the narration and the neat little way that the film forms its conclusion, but I was enjoying every bit of this film. It was charming and it was pleasant, and it was surprising me at every turn. I kept thinking it was going to be another predictable rom-com and instead I got a smart movie about Filipinos (and other migrant workers) working hard and trying to make it outside of their homes. Surprisingly, the love story is not the central theme to the piece but the bigger world of what the two characters learn about themselves and about their own value is what makes this movie so special. This was a very pleasant surprise for me.
My Rating:
Elevator is now showing. Check screening times and buy tickets here.
Before becoming icons of the epic Cybertronian battles, Optimus Prime and Megatron led very different lives. In the much-anticipated prequel, “Transformers One,” fans will explore the origin stories of these colossal characters, tracing their transformation from allies to adversaries. The film, starring a dynamic ensemble including Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson, and Keegan-Michael Key, promises to add depth and drama to the beloved franchise.
A Glimpse into the Past: Orion Pax and D-16 “Transformers One” takes us back to a time before the birth of the Autobots and Decepticons. The film delves into the history of Orion Pax and D-16, who fans will recognize as the young Optimus Prime and Megatron. This narrative pivot from sworn brothers to fierce foes offers a fresh take on their complex dynamics and enriches the lore of the Transformers universe.
Star-Studded Cast Brings Characters to Life With Chris Hemsworth and Bryan Tyree Henry at the helm, the film explores the nuanced transformations of these central characters. Scarlett Johansson and Keegan-Michael Key lend their talents, bringing a new layer of intensity and humanity to the epic saga. The powerful performances are poised to resonate with both long-time fans and new audiences.
Exclusive Character Posters Revealed Accompanying the film’s release, a series of striking character posters have been unveiled, offering fans a closer look at the visually captivating designs of the legendary Transformers. Each poster not only highlights the unique features of the characters but also teases the intense drama that the film promises to deliver.
Epic Release and How to Join the Conversation “Transformers One” is set to make its grand entrance into Philippine cinemas on September 18. Distributed by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures, this film is a must-see for fans of the franchise and action-packed cinema. Moviegoers are encouraged to become part of the excitement by joining the conversation online using the hashtag #TransformersOne and tagging @paramountpicsph on social platforms.
Don’t miss your chance to witness the historic battles and transformations that defined a universe. “Transformers One” is not just a film; it’s the beginning of a new chapter in the Transformers legacy.
Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
Dev Patel, renowned for his powerful performances in “Slumdog Millionaire” and “Lion,” makes his directorial debut with the electrifying action thriller, “Monkey Man.” Scheduled to hit cinemas on May 15, this film is already being hailed by critics as the “South Asian John Wick” due to its raw and intense action sequences.
Decade in the Making: A Passion Project Comes to Life
“Monkey Man” represents a decade of passion and perseverance for Patel. He describes the film as “an action-packed, crazy ride – blood, sweat, tears, broken bones,” emphasizing the physical and emotional investment that went into bringing his vision to life. As both writer and director, Patel has crafted a story that intertwines modern India with ancient mythology, offering a fresh perspective on timeless tales.
A Story of Vengeance and Mythology
The film is inspired by the legend of Hanuman, a Hindu deity revered for wisdom and strength, which parallels the journey of Kid. Played by Patel, Kid navigates his existence within the harsh realms of underground fight clubs, concealed behind a gorilla mask. The story unfolds as Kid channels his suppressed rage through a daring plan to avenge his mother’s murder by the corrupt elite, sparking a thrilling quest for retribution.
Influences and Inspirations: From Hanuman to Hollywood
Patel’s directorial approach draws on various global cinema influences, particularly Korean revenge-action films and iconic series like “John Wick.” These inspirations infuse “Monkey Man” with a unique blend of cultural richness and cinematic innovation, highlighted by sequences that combine visceral action with poetic execution.
Star-Studded Support: Jordan Peele’s Involvement
Jordan Peele, acclaimed for “Get Out” and “Us,” through his Monkeypaw Productions, plays a crucial role in bringing “Monkey Man” to the screen. Impressed by Patel’s unique vision and kinetic directing style, Peele notes the film’s “fluid and visceral” action sequences that make Patel’s physical performance stand out as both authentic and mesmerizing.
Prepare for a Cinematic Revolution
As “Monkey Man” prepares to take audiences on a whirlwind of adrenaline and emotion, Patel’s debut is set to redefine action cinema. The film promises not only to showcase his talents as an actor and filmmaker but also to deliver a powerful narrative of justice and resolve. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty, chaos, and the raw intensity of “Monkey Man” in theaters this May 15.
Since its premiere in March, “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” has captivated audiences across the Philippines, maintaining its position as the nation’s number one movie for an impressive four consecutive weeks. This monumental achievement not only highlights the film’s widespread appeal but also marks it as the first and only movie of 2024 to surpass the P100 million mark at the box office.
Warner Bros. Achieves Historic Milestone
The success of “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” contributes significantly to Warner Bros.’ remarkable achievement of crossing the $1 billion milestone for the year 2024. This feat is further bolstered by the strong performance of Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune: Part Two”, which is nearing $700M in global revenue. Together, these films underscore Warner Bros.’ dominant presence in the cinematic landscape this year.
A Legendary Team-Up Against a New Threat
In “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire“, fans are treated to a legendary showdown where the iconic Godzilla and the colossal Kong join forces to combat a new menace threatening Hollow Earth—the villainous Skar King. Under the expert direction of Adam Wingard, who returns after his success with “Godzilla vs. Kong”, the film features stellar performances by Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, and Dan Stevens, ensuring a thrilling cinematic experience.
Epic Meal Collaboration with Burger Beast
Enhancing the cinematic journey, “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” has partnered with Burger Beast to bring fans the monstrous Double Umami Burger and Double Crispy Chicken, available for a limited time until April 29. Moviegoers who present their ticket at Burger Beast outlets can enjoy a P150 discount on a minimum purchase of P500. Additionally, patrons partaking in this promotion will receive exclusive “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” premium items, adding an extra layer of excitement to their movie-going experience.
Catch the Phenomenon in Cinemas
Now in its fifth week, “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” continues to draw crowds and awe viewers in Philippine cinemas. Don’t miss your chance to witness this cinematic titan in action and partake in the exciting promotions offered in collaboration with Burger Beast. Experience the thrill, the drama, and the epic battles of 2024’s biggest movie sensation!
You don’t need to know anything about the game tennis to enjoy the crazy ride that is ‘Challengers.’ This is not so much as a sports movie as it is a movie about three very passionate athletes whose complicated, intertwined relationships comes crashing into each other in the midst of a very integral challenger tennis match. I know nothing about tennis, and I didn’t need to. It’s merely the backdrop, and in some cases the filmmaking inspiration, for this sordid love triangle. Director Luca Guadagnino (with screenwriter Justin Kuritzkes) serves up some crazy, sensual character dynamics that turns love and friendship into a competition of a different kind.
What Guadagnino manages to do, as well, is to take the fast-paced, hard-hitting energy of the sport and suffused it into his craft. The film is in constant back-and-forth. The characters are constantly pushing each other, testing each other, goading each other. The camera work and the editing take on this approach as well. The narrative is constantly jumping from present day to the past, the flashbacks serving up the context to make the present-day competition even more tension-filled and ready to explode.
‘Challengers’ is about two friends, Patrick and Art (played by Josh O’ Connor and Mike Faist, respectively), who are both tennis players and have fallen for Zendaya’s Tashi Duncan, an emerging tennis superstar. At a tournament in their youth the three get close and a relationship is formed but things get complicated. When Tashi suffers a career-ending injury, she ends up with one of the friends and becomes his coach while the other is waiting on the wings, waiting for his turn to get into the spotlight.
What makes ‘Challengers’ so enjoyable is how the love story of all three characters – because the friendship of Patrick and Art can get just as deep and just as messy as Tashi’s relationship with both men – are handled without any reverence to the concept of romance. Tashi is a cold, hard woman who has a clear-cut definition of what she wants out of life and out of her partner. Both men are constantly trying to win her over but are no match for Tashi’s strength. Instead, they take it out on each other and despite all her strength, Tashi can’t seem to shake off both of them from her orbit.
The trio are sizzling with such chemistry that any of their interactions with each other are just explosive and Guadagnino knows how to capture it on film. He sees them as fully fleshed-out characters and is quick to capture all their little nuances and facial tics as each one is pushing against the other – taunting, teasing, pleading, flirting – but Guadagnino also understands that they are sexual beings as well. There’s a lot of skin here, bodies covered in sweat and glistening under the sun. Desire is the film’s fulcrum, but the characters are not the best at articulating what it is they really want or need and so there is friction and that’s the fuel that drives the movie to its highs and lows.
It’s a love story but Guadagnino doesn’t film it like a romance story. It’s set in the world of tennis but it’s not a sports movie either. It’s sexy but it’s never gratuitous or obscene. ‘Challengers’ is a crazy, high-octane study on the complex relationship of three athletes who seem to be conflating their careers, their love, and their own lost dreams and hopes into this one match. Propelled forward by the relentless soundtrack of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, ‘Challengers’ is fun, irreverent, and completely bonkers because it’s a love story where everything is at stake, and no one seems to know how to love properly.
Zendaya, O’ Connor, and Faist are so charismatic and magnetic that you cannot help but get involved in the crazy antics of the three leads as struggle to make sense out of what it is they are feeling for each other and of their own selves. These are mature and intelligent performances that is so fun to watch because they are so committed to the craziness of this story.
‘Challengers’ is so refreshing and unpredictable. It’s not cookie-cutter in any way and I hope that this is the trend for commercial films moving forward. It’s hard-hitting, smart, and risqué. It never feels safe and it’s just so enjoyable watching a movie that makes you laugh out loud and catches you off guard.
My Rating:
Challengers is now showing. Check screening times and buy tickets here.
