Category: Movies

New Movies This Week: “IF,” “Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle,” “Monkey Man,” and more!

Level up your humpday! Escape the daily grind and immerse yourself in a cinematic adventure this week. Get ready to spike with excitement in the high-octane volleyball battle of “Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle.” For a touch of whimsy, join a young girl on a heartwarming quest to reunite imaginary friends with their kids in “IF.” Feeling chills? Delve into the dark secrets of a haunting historical tale in “A Southern Haunting,” or get spooked by the terrifying encounter in “Sting.” Music lovers, celebrate the legacy of Amy Winehouse with “Back to Black.” Craving laughter? “Fuchsia Libre’s” hilarious wrestling antics will have you in stitches. For an adrenaline rush, join Dev Patel’s quest for vengeance in the action-packed thriller “Monkey Man.” Finally, prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions with “Isang Gabi“, exploring love, loss, and the power of human connection. 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:

HAIKYU!! The Dumpster Battle

2024 • PG • 1 hr 24 mins
ANIMATION, COMEDY, DRAMA
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Get ready to spike, set, and soar with “HAIKYU!! The Dumpster Battle.” Join Shoyo Hinata and Tobio Kageyama as they team up to take on their rivals in the ultimate volleyball showdown. Can their unlikely partnership lead Karasuno High to victory against Nekoma High? With adrenaline-pumping action and heartwarming camaraderie, this animated adventure is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Don’t miss the match of the season!

IF

2024 • G • 1 hr 43 mins
COMEDY, FAMILY, FANTASY
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Prepare to journey into a world where imagination knows no bounds in “IF.” When a young girl discovers her ability to see everyone’s imaginary friends, she embarks on a magical adventure to reunite forgotten companions with their children. With a star-studded cast including Ryan Reynolds and John Krasinski, this heartwarming tale reminds us of the power of belief and the magic that lies within us all. Get ready to dream big and believe in the impossible!

A Southern Haunting

2024 • PG • 1 hr 25 mins
HORROR, THRILLER
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Step into the shadows of the past with “A Southern Haunting,” where a family’s legacy is shrouded in mystery and terror. As an ex-slave family inherits 40 acres of land, they must confront both man and myth to uncover the truth behind their ancestral home. With spine-tingling suspense and bone-chilling scares, this haunting thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Brace yourself for a journey into the unknown.

Back to Black

2024 • R-16 • 2 hrs 2 mins
BIOGRAPHY, DRAMA, MUSIC
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Experience the highs and lows of one of music’s most iconic voices in “Back to Black.” Follow the captivating journey of Amy Winehouse from her adolescence to adulthood, as she navigates fame, fortune, and the pressures of stardom. With a mesmerizing performance by Marisa Abela and an unforgettable soundtrack, this biographical drama pays tribute to the life and legacy of a true musical legend. Get ready to be moved by the soulful sounds of Amy Winehouse.

Fuchsia Libre

2024 • R-13 • 1 hrs 52 mins
ACTION, COMEDY
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Get ready to rumble with “Fuchsia Libre,” a heartwarming tale of acceptance and self-discovery. Follow a secretly gay wrestler as he dons a colorful costume and larger-than-life persona to find his place in the ring. With laugh-out-loud humor and heartfelt moments, this feel-good comedy is a celebration of individuality and the power of self-expression. Join the fun and cheer for the underdog in this uplifting cinematic adventure!

Isang Gabi

2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 30 mins
DRAMA, ROMANCE
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In the dimly lit confines of a bar, two strangers find solace in each other’s company in “Isang Gabi.” Karla, grappling with the loss of her abusive husband, crosses paths with Dindo, facing his final hours of freedom. As their stories intertwine, dark secrets emerge, binding them in a shared fate. With raw emotion and poignant storytelling, this captivating drama explores the complexities of grief, redemption, and the power of human connection. Prepare to be swept away by a tale of love, loss, and the search for hope in the darkest of nights.

Monkey Man

2024 • R-18 • 2 hrs 1 min
ACTION, THRILLER
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Action movie enthusiasts won’t want to miss “Monkey Man,” starring Dev Patel. This film follows Kid, a young man haunted by the tragic death of his mother. Driven by a burning desire for vengeance, he sets out to bring down Baba Shakti, a corrupt spiritual guru who he believes is responsible. Disguised and fueled by the strength of the Hindu deity Hanuman, Kid infiltrates Shakti’s opulent world, ready for a high-stakes showdown.

Sting

2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 31 mins
HORROR, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
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When 12-year-old Charlotte discovers an unnervingly talented spider in her midst, she must confront the terrifying truth about her pet and fight for her family’s survival. With heart-stopping suspense and hair-raising thrills, this gripping thriller will have you checking under the bed and behind every corner.

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:

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

2024 • PG • 2 hrs 24 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, SCIENCE FICTION
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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!

The Fall Guy

2024 • R-13 • 2 hrs 10 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, COMEDY
BUY TICKETS

Tarot

2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 33 mins
HORROR, THRILLER
GET SCHEDULES

Challengers

2024 • R-13 • 2 hrs 12 mins
DRAMA, ROMANCE
BUY TICKETS

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire

2024 • PG • 1 hr 54 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, SCIENCE FICTION
GET SCHEDULES

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!

May 15, 2024
Steve Carell Brings Heart and Hugs to ‘IF’ as the Loveable Blue, Premieres May 15

In an enchanting reunion from their days on “The Office,” Steve Carell returns under the direction of John Krasinski to voice Blue, the charming and oversized imaginary friend in the much-anticipated family adventure-comedy “IF.” The film, penned and helmed by Krasinski, explores the limitless creativity of children’s imaginations through their imaginary friends, known as IFs.

A Colorful Character in Every Hue

Blue, despite his name, is not blue but purple—a whimsical twist attributed to his creator’s color blindness. “Everyone calls him Blue, but he is purple,” says producer Andrew Form. “John decided that the child who invented him was color-blind. Blue is very lovable, and like all IFs, just wants to get back to the kid who created him and reclaim that life.”

Perfect Casting with Steve Carell

Producer Allyson Seeger said Carell would be the perfect fit as his voice actor. “When you envision the personification of Blue, who’s larger-than-life, who makes you want to hug him all the time, who can make you laugh and make you cry, there’s nobody more perfect than Steve.”

A Magical Reunion

Krasinski reflected on working with Carell again, noting, “Getting to watch him do the voice of Blue was phenomenal,” Krasinski explains. “I don’t think anybody brings Steve’s level of energy, comedy, and warmth. He made Blue the sweetest, funniest, most adorable character, and the best hugger in the history of hugs.”

The character of Blue was rigorously tested with Krasinski’s own children, passing with flying colors. “I was the most nervous I have ever been to show footage to anyone when I showed my kids this three-minute clip,” Krasinski confesses. “At the end, there was dead silence as they just stared at a blank screen. I almost burst into tears. Then they both said at the same time, ‘When can we bring him home?’ In just three minutes, they recognized him as someone that they wanted to experience life with.”

Film Synopsis

“IF” tells the story of a young girl with the unique ability to see everyone’s imaginary friends. She embarks on a magical journey to help these forgotten friends reconnect with the children who imagined them. The film features a star-studded cast including Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, and Fiona Shaw, alongside the delightful voices of Carell and others.

Global Anticipation and Local Release

“IF” is set to open in Philippine cinemas on May 15 and promises to be a delightful cinematic experience for families and moviegoers of all ages. The film is distributed locally by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures.

Connect with the magic of “IF” using the hashtag #IFMovie and tagging @paramountpicsph on your favorite social media platforms.

_{Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”}

May 14, 2024
Chris Hemsworth Delivers a Tour-de-Force Performance as Dementus in “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga”

In a seamless blend of ferocity and depth, Chris Hemsworth steps into the role of Dementus, a complex antagonist in the highly anticipated “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.” Directed by visionary filmmaker George Miller, this expansion of the Mad Max universe explores the gritty backstory of Furiosa, promising a spectacle of high-octane action and profound character development.

Hemsworth’s Mastery as Dementus

Under the astute direction of George Miller, Chris Hemsworth transforms into Dementus, the tyrannical warlord whose life intertwines tragically with Furiosa’s. Hemsworth’s nuanced understanding of Dementus’ psyche adds a compelling layer to his character, making him a villain of remarkable depth and charisma. ““He understood his character such that I began to rely on him whenever he would say, ‘I think Dementus would do this…’ And suddenly, it became more than serving his performance or the characters, but serving the deeper narrative of the story.” Miller remarked, highlighting the actor’s profound connection to his character.

A Physical and Emotional Odyssey

Known for his dedication to authenticity, Hemsworth performed his own stunts, utilizing his real-life skills in motorbike riding and surfing to embody the rugged survivalist spirit of the Wasteland. “He understands how everything work,” shares Miller. “And, of course, he’s very physically gifted, doing all his own stunts and constantly riding motorbikes in his real life, surfing, doing all that sort of stuff. And so he was ideal for this character. Once I met Chris, saw his response and understood what he was thinking and the way that dovetailed, I thought, ‘Okay, he’s the one who should take on Dementus.”

Photo by Jasin Boland. © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved

The Echo of Villainy

Producer Doug Mitchell noted the unique approach Hemsworth and Miller took to redefine cinematic villainy. “When they got to talking about villains, he said that they weren’t just table thumpers and screamers, people running around chopping people’s heads off—yes, some are. But, many of them have one characteristic. They’re often charismatic, very likable. And I think what started, which was an echo between George and Chris, was this idea that you play against kind. You know, if you’re an evil man, you hide that, as we see. And Chris was in 100%, like even before George was offering it,” Mitchell recalls.

A New Cinematic Chapter

“Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” not only revisits the dystopian landscapes that fans adore but also deepens the lore of the Mad Max universe. The film, scripted by George Miller and Nico Lathouris, explores Furiosa’s harrowing journey from captivity to her quest for liberation, providing a fresh narrative perspective that promises to captivate audiences.

Photo by Jasin Boland. © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved

Star-Studded Ensemble

Joining Chris Hemsworth are Anya Taylor-Joy as Furiosa, Alyla Browne, and Tom Burke, each bringing unique dimensions to their roles. The ensemble’s dynamic performances are set to deliver a cinematic experience filled with emotion, action, and epic storytelling.

Mark Your Calendars

Prepare to be enthralled as “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” makes its explosive debut in Philippine cinemas on May 22, 2024. Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, this film is not just a journey through the Wasteland but a deep dive into the souls of its inhabitants.

Photo by Jasin Boland. © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved

About “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga”

From the ashes of civilization emerges a tale of resilience and power. Directed by George Miller and produced by Doug Mitchell, “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” promises to be a landmark in action-adventure cinema, exploring the intricate dynamics of power, survival, and redemption in a post-apocalyptic world.

May 14, 2024
“Back to Black” Exclusive Screening at Ayala Malls Cinemas Starting May 15

Ayala Malls Cinemas proudly announces the exclusive screening of “Back to Black,” the powerful biopic celebrating the life and artistic journey of the legendary Amy Winehouse, starting May 15. Film enthusiasts and music lovers are invited to delve into the profound narrative of one of the 21st century’s most influential talents, whose emotional depth and vocal prowess captivated the world.

A Film Crafted from Amy’s Perspective

Directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, known for her insightful biopic “NoWhere Boy” about John Lennon, “Back to Black” offers audiences a unique view into Winehouse’s life, seen through the lens of her own lyrics and personal experiences. “I wanted to make a film from Amy’s perspective, through her eyes,” says director Sam Taylor-Johnson, whose previous works include “NoWhere Boy,” about another late genius artist, John Lennon. “The only place where her truth could be found was in her lyrics and music. I decided to tell her story through her own words, from the songs that she wrote, the songs where she poured out her soul. She sung of her love, her pain, her disappointment, all infused with deep emotion and often savagely sharp humor.”

Stellar Performance by Marisa Abela

Marisa Abela brings Amy Winehouse to life with an uncanny portrayal that has garnered critical acclaim. According to Variety, “Abela, whose lead performance nails Amy Winehouse in every look, mood, utterance, and musical expression.” The Guardian wrote that “Abela conveys [Winehouse’s] tenderness, and perhaps most poignantly of all her youth, so tellingly at odds with that tough image and eerily mature voice.”

A Collaboration of Respect and Authenticity

The production was developed in close cooperation with the music rights holders, Universal Music and Sony, and with a profound respect for Winehouse’s relatives and friends. Producer Alison Owen shares, “It was crucial for us to collaborate respectfully and to base the story on Amy’s own words. Our conversations with her mother Janis were particularly moving, adding a layer of emotional depth to our narrative.”

Experience More at Ayala Malls Cinemas

Ayala Malls Cinemas doesn’t just offer films; it promises an unparalleled cinematic experience with state-of-the-art visuals and sound, comfortable seating, and a selection of gourmet cinema snacks. Moviegoers can enhance their experience with the wide range of treats available at The Movie Snackbar, ensuring a perfect complement to the emotional and musical journey of “Back to Black.”

Special Offers for Ayala Malls Zing Plus Members

Members of the Ayala Malls Zing Plus program can enjoy additional benefits, such as earning double Zing points on purchases made with Zing-linked credit cards or GCash at Ayala Malls Cinema ticket booths or online at www.sureseats.com, with a minimum spend of P600. This special promotion is available until June 30, 2024.

May 14, 2024
New Posters Unveiled: ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ Set to Illuminate Cinemas in July 2024

“Fly Me to the Moon,” featuring the dynamic duo Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum, is slated for a grand cinematic release in July 2024. This comedy-drama, directed by the acclaimed Greg Berlanti, combines wit, style, and high stakes in an unforgettable journey alongside NASA’s historic Apollo 11 moon mission.

Stellar Cast and Creative Vision

Johansson stars as Kelly Jones, a sharp-witted marketing guru hired to revamp NASA’s public image, while Tatum plays Cole Davis, a launch director with the weight of the moon landing on his shoulders. The film’s script, penned by Rose Gilroy and based on a story by Bill Kirstein & Keenan Flynn, crafts a compelling narrative where truth and fiction collide spectacularly.

The star-studded ensemble doesn’t stop with Johansson and Tatum; the film also features performances by Nick Dillenburg, Anna Garcia, Jim Rash, Noah Robbins, Colin Woodell, Christian Zuber, and Donald Elise Watkins. Special appearances by Ray Romano and Woody Harrelson add further gravitas and humor to the mix.

New Posters Revealed

Excitement is soaring with the release of the film’s new posters, showcasing Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum in their captivating roles. These visually stunning posters hint at the dynamic chemistry and high-flying drama awaiting audiences.

Plot Twist That Captivates

“Fly Me to the Moon” transcends the traditional boundaries of genre by introducing a plot twist that intertwines reality and staged deception. Tasked with staging a fake moon landing as a backup, Jones’s strategies and Davis’s operational challenges lead to comedic yet tense mishaps that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Produced by a Team of Visionaries

Produced by Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Lia, Keenan Flynn, and Sarah Schechter, the film promises to be a cinematic masterpiece. Its engaging plot, combined with impeccable performances and high production values, positions “Fly Me to the Moon” as a must-see film of 2024.

Distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, a local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, the film is set to captivate audiences worldwide. Viewers can connect and stay updated through the hashtag #FlyMeToTheMoon and follow @columbiapicph for exclusive insights and behind-the-scenes content.

Prepare for a journey to the moon that promises laughter, suspense, and a spectacle like no other. Don’t miss “Fly Me to the Moon” – only in cinemas from July 2024.

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

May 10, 2024
Silence is Survival: ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’ Unveils Thrilling New Trailer

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.

Unveiling the Silence

“A Quiet Place: Day One” explores the harrowing day when noise became deadly. Directed by Michael Sarnoski and based on the story by John Krasinski, who also produced alongside Michael Bay, Andrew Form, and Brad Fuller, this film unravels the eerie calm before the storm.

Star-Studded Cast

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”}

May 10, 2024
Ryan Reynolds Brings Heart and Humor to Family Adventure-Comedy “IF”

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”}

May 9, 2024
The Reign of the Apes begins – ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ Now Showing in Philippine Cinemas

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.”

Proximus Caesar (played by Kevin Durand) in 20th Century Studios’ KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2024 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

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.

(L-R): Noa (played by Owen Teague) , Freya Allan as Nova and Raka (played by Peter Macon) in 20th Century Studios’ KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2024 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

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.

May 9, 2024
“Twisters”: New Trailer Unleashes a Storm of Thrills – In Cinemas July 17
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.
- David Corenswet, soon to be seen in “Superman: Legacy.”
- Brandon Perea, noted for his performance in “Nope.”
- Sasha Lane, celebrated for her role in “American Honey.”
- Daryl McCormack of “Peaky Blinders.”
- Kiernan Shipka, known from “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.”
- Nik Dodani, beloved for his role in “Atypical.”
- 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.”
May 9, 2024
MOVIE REVIEW: This isn’t just monkey business: a review of ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’

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.

(L-R): Noa (played by Owen Teague) and Koro (played by Neil Sandilands) in 20th Century Studios’ KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2024 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Noa (played by Owen Teague) in 20th Century Studios’ KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

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.

Noa (played by Owen Teague) in 20th Century Studios’ KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

‘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.

(Center): Freya Allan as Nova in 20th Century Studios’ KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2024 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

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.

(L-R): Noa (played by Owen Teague) , Freya Allan as Nova and Raka (played by Peter Macon) in 20th Century Studios’ KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2024 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

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.

Proximus Caesar (played by Kevin Durand) in 20th Century Studios’ KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

A scene still from 20th Century Studios’ KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

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.

My Rating:

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is now showing. Check screening times and buy tickets here.

May 9, 2024