Get ready to be captivated! The much-anticipated film “The Fall Guy” is set to premiere in cinemas across the Philippines on May 1, with exclusive sneak previews starting at 5:00 PM on April 26 and 27. This high-octane action-romance-comedy features the stellar pairing of Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt, directed by the acclaimed David Leitch, who brings his unique stunt-performing expertise to the big screen in a film that celebrates the unsung heroes of cinema.
A Stunt-Packed Adventure Ryan Gosling stars as Colt Seavers, a seasoned stuntman navigating the perilous world of movie stunts—from explosive set-pieces to death-defying falls—all in the name of entertainment. Following a near-career-ending accident, Colt finds himself embroiled in a thrilling quest to locate a vanished movie star, unravel a deep-seated conspiracy, and reclaim the heart of his beloved, played by Emily Blunt.
Behind the Scenes with Ryan Gosling Ryan Gosling not only leads the cast but also steps behind the camera as a producer, enhancing the film with his vision. “Working with David Leitch was incredibly inspiring; as a former stunt performer, he crafts a narrative that feels both genuine and exhilarating, reflecting the real-life feats of those behind the scenes,” shares Gosling.
Why You Can’t Miss “The Fall Guy” “The Fall Guy” is more than just a movie; it’s a tribute to the stunt community, spotlighting the daring individuals who bring the magic of action to life. Gosling’s connection to stunts, dating back to his days on “Young Hercules,” adds a personal touch to his role as Colt.
Prepare for a blend of laughs, romance, and adrenaline-pumping action that promises to be the cinematic event of the season. Make sure to book your tickets early for the sneak previews on April 26 and 27, and join the adventure that everyone will be talking about!
There’s a lot of misfiring happening in what should be a sure-fire success that is the international co-production ‘Under Parallel Skies’ with Thai superstar Metawin Opas-iamkajorn and Janella Salvador, under the direction of Sigrid Andrea Bernardo. By all means, this should be good. Shot in Hong Kong, Bernardo is quite adept at capturing love amidst the backdrop of a foreign lang. She did it is so capably in ‘Kita Kita,’ presenting us with the surprising kilig-worthy pairing of Alessandra de Rossi and Empoy with great success. But in ‘Under Parallel Skies,’ things are not coming together, and the movie feels disjointed and confused with what story it is trying to tell.
Metawin Opas-iamkajorn is playing Parin, a very wealthy Thai young businessman who heads to Hong Kong in search of his mother. There he runs into Iris, played by Janella Salvador. She’s working at the hotel he is staying in and as his wealthy father has left instructions for the staff to take care of him, Iris ends up working overtime to address all Parin’s needs, including helping him find his mother. In the process, they get close and discover that their feelings have grown from purely professional to something much more.
The first misfire in this film is its lack of a cohesive story. The first act revolves all around Parin’s search for his mom. While he employs the help of Iris, which lays the foundation for the love story to happen after, the goal and direction is finding the mom. Surprisingly, this is resolved faster than expected, switching the entire movie’s direction on the second act to the sudden twist of Parin and Iris dropping everything to start working together as business partners running a small cafe in a provincial, coastal area of Hong Kong while living together. But the third act is a completely different movie altogether that involves one of the character’s hidden secrets that is unconvincingly set up in act one but is never any visible motivating factor until it is revealed in the final act that turns the movie over its head again.
These multiple directions made the film feel like three different movies and never gave us any chance to really get to know the characters well or see their relationship grow into the love story that the second act wanted us to fall in love with. Bernardo fills the first act with Parin’s desperation to find his mother but also peppers the scenes with comedic moments of Iris and Parin verbally sparring or Iris taking care of a drunk Parin to set us up for the love story. Unfortunately, there’s no real chemistry happening between the two leads and the moment Parin meets his mom, the lessons he learns there holds no real learning for the character as it makes no real visible change to his life.
After an hour, as Parin and Iris start to build their little business together, I realise I didn’t know these characters at all. Parin left home to find his mom and it is implied that he ran a business in Thailand (and that it failed) and that he is the youngest son of a wealthy family, but we return to none of that. We do not know what he likes or what drives him and it’s the same with Iris. I don’t know what drives her either. She has a sister back home in the Philippines that she is estranged from, but we don’t know why. So, when the two suddenly realise they fell in love, we don’t see what connects them other than the time they have spent together. The love doesn’t come from any sense of connection other than shared time.
It doesn’t’ help that Bernardo’s directing choices are also quite puzzling. It felt like 90% of the film was shot in extreme close ups of the actor’s faces. It capitalizes a lot on the good looks and star power of its two leads. Except that it makes the film feel very small and confined and claustrophobic. There are barely any establishing shots. The hustle and bustle of Hong Kong is never emphasized and the grandeur of the backdrop of any of the locations end up carrying no consequence for the narrative. Adding to this is Bernardo’s choice to direct the dialogue scenes (of which there are too much of) as cut-to-cut. There are very few moments that Metawin and Janella speak to each other in the same shot. Parin says a line, cut to Iris, who says a line, cut, and then Parin says a line. The characters feel distant and never actually get close when the film should be putting them together.
And this is strange coming from Bernardo who manages to use the full backdrop of Sapporo in ‘Kita Kita’ to help amplify the growing love story between her two leads, or in ‘Untrue,’ where she situates her romance/drama-turned-suspense/thriller in the gorgeous Georgian landscape. Bernardo situates her characters in a vast world and knows how to use the location to amplify her themes and create stunning imagery that elevates the work. None of this skill set is at work in ‘Under Parallel Skies.’ Very little of Hong Kong is scene and it never really fully plays out in the story – it could have been set in Thailand or the Philippines and nothing essentially changes in the story.
There are a lot of cliches that fill up the rest of the film to help fill in the gaps of the underdeveloped characters or storylines. All the elements are presents for a hit – a strong writer/director with a great track record for producing groundbreaking work, two big stars from different countries and cultures, a popular genre, an exotic location – but none of these things come into alignment and the film is way too close for comfort (cinematographically) that it leaves no room to breathe or to gain scope while the story is so thin that it resorts to familiar cliches to fill in the gaps.
Starting April 24, moviegoers are in for a treat as Ayala Malls Cinemas exclusively presents “Challengers,” directed by the renowned Luca Guadagnino. Starring Zendaya, alongside Mike Faist and Josh O’Connor, this film promises to deliver high-stakes drama wrapped in a captivating narrative.
A New Peak in Zendaya’s Career Zendaya, revered for her dynamic acting range, steps into the shoes of Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy and now a determined coach shaping the future of the sport. The plot thickens with a poignant reunion as Tashi’s husband, Art (played by Mike Faist), confronts his past in a climactic match against his once best friend and Tashi’s ex, Patrick, portrayed by Josh O’Connor.
A Story of Love, Rivalry, and Redemption “Challengers” weaves a complex tale of love, rivalry, and personal redemption, set against the backdrop of a professional tennis match. This narrative not only challenges the characters’ relationships but also promises viewers an intense look into what it takes to win at love and sport.
Critical Acclaim and Stylish Cinematics The film has already garnered critical acclaim for its powerful performances and unique aesthetic. The dynamic score by Reznor/Ross adds to the electrifying atmosphere of the movie, making every dialogue scene pulse with intensity. Fashion enthusiasts will appreciate the wardrobe curated by J.W. Anderson, which complements the film’s sizzling narrative.
Experience “Challengers” in Supreme Comfort Ayala Malls Cinemas enhances this gripping story with their state-of-the-art facilities. Viewers can enjoy the film with crystal-clear images thanks to the latest laser projection technology, and immerse themselves in the action with Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos audio systems. The complete cinema experience is rounded out with a variety of snacks available at The Movie Snackbar.
Exclusive Offers for Ayala Malls Zing Plus Members To make the movie experience even more rewarding, Ayala Malls Zing Plus members can enjoy double Zing points on ticket purchases via Zing-linked GCash, with a minimum spend of P600. This offer is valid through June 30, 2024.
Don’t Miss Out! Prepare to be enthralled by the intensity and drama of “Challengers.” Visit www.sureseats.com or your nearest Ayala Malls Cinema to secure your tickets. Stay connected with Ayala Malls Cinemas through their official Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest updates on movie releases and exclusive promos.
YOLO tells the story of Leying (Jia Ling) who has been staying at home for many years, doing nothing in particular. After graduating from college and working for a while, Leying chooses to withdraw from society, closing herself off from social circles, which she believes is the best way to “reconcile” with herself. Then one day, after several twists of fate, she decides to live life in a different way. In cautiously venturing into the outside world, Le Ying meets boxing coach Haokun (played by Lei Jiayin), who just may change her life.
Find out why YOLO, which has charmed audiences around the world (it has a 91% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes) is highly rated.
“YOLO made us laugh, cry and root for the director and lead star Jia Ling. It’s eye-opening and life-changing but not without a good dose of light comedy. A must-watch, most definitely. It’s 12 rounds out of 10 for me – total knockout,” raves content creator Coach Abby.
Movie critic Wanggo Gallaga writes “YOLO is a comedy that knows how to tug at the heart strings and uses film language to really amplify the underdog story that is at its core. A well-crafted surprise.”
Film reviewer Jonell Estillore cheers: “YOLO – Five stars! #Oscars2025”
“Get ready to iyak-tawa in cinemas!” advises pop culture blogger Ica Cheng. “YOLO teaches us that we can win in life on our own terms, and not what society, or our family dictates. It is truly a heartwarming and inspiring film that will have you laughing all throughout.”
Entertainment writer Bong Godinez lauds YOLO as a film that “where cinematic poetry intertwines with profound life lessons. It captures this delicate balance, combining subtlety with boldness to deliver its message.”
Raves journalist MJ Marfori, “YOLO is in my Top 5 greatest films of all time. People need to see this!”
YOLO was written and directed by lead star Jia Ling, who became the highest-grossing female director in China in 2021 with her directorial debut film Hi, Mom, which, like YOLO, she also wrote and starred in.
YOLO, distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, is now in cinemas. #YOLOmovie @columbiapicph
In an unprecedented cinematic event, the first trailer for “Transformers One” has made history by debuting in space. The highly anticipated origin story of some of the most beloved characters in the Transformers universe was launched 125,000 feet above Earth, making it a truly out-of-this-world experience.
Star-Studded Introductions from Space The space launch of the trailer was not just a technical feat but also a star-studded event. Chris Hemsworth and Brian Tyree Henry introduced the trailer with a special video. Hemsworth voices Orion Pax, the character destined to become the revered Optimus Prime, while Henry lends his voice to D-16, who will emerge as the notorious Megatron.
Plot Revealed: A Tale of Brothers Turned Foes “Transformers One” delves into the dramatic transformation of Orion Pax and D-16 from comrades to archenemies, leading to the rise of Optimus Prime and the genesis of Megatron. This epic tale is further enriched by a stellar supporting cast including Scarlett Johansson as Elita-1, Keegan-Michael Key as B-127, and performances by Steve Buscemi, Laurence Fishburne, and Jon Hamm.
Coming Soon to Theaters Mark your calendars for September 18, when “Transformers One” lands in Philippine cinemas. The film is set to captivate audiences with its thrilling exploration of loyalty, conflict, and destiny. Join the excitement and participate in the conversation using #TransformersOne.
This historic launch not only promises an exhilarating cinematic experience but also sets a new benchmark in movie marketing. Be sure to witness the beginning of a new chapter in the Transformers saga, where every frame is a brushstroke of action and every character’s journey is a testament to the enduring allure of these legendary figures.
Filipino-American actor Jacob Batalon, celebrated for his role in the Spider-Man series, is excited to invite his Filipino fans to the premiere of his latest film, Tarot. This new horror thriller is set to make its debut in Philippine cinemas on May 1, promising a spine-tingling experience rooted in the mysteries of the occult.
The Terrifying Tale of Tarot
Tarot takes a dark and suspenseful turn on the classic practice of fortune-telling. The film follows a group of friends who unwittingly unleash a sinister force after violating an ironclad rule: never use someone else’s tarot deck. This awakens a malevolent entity from the cursed cards, and one by one, the friends find themselves facing their worst nightmares, all dealt by the very deck they misused.
Batalon Deals Out a Spooky Invite
To amp up the excitement for Filipino fans, Batalon sent a special video message extending a chilling invitation.
Visionary Direction and Inspirational Fears
Directed and written by Anna Halberg and Spenser Cohen, Tarot taps into the deep-seated fears associated with the occult. Halberg explains, “We love astrology and horoscopes because it’s a way to learn about yourself, but it’s also a way to bring clarity and to learn about the future. On the other hand, if you know what the future is going to hold, good or bad, it will influence the decisions that you make, and just because you could know what the future brings, I don’t know that it’s a good idea that you should.” This tension between curiosity and fear is central to the film’s plot, designed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
Designed for Group Thrills
“Tarot” is designed to be a heart-pounding experience that’s even more exciting when shared with friends. “Horror films are undeniably more thrilling when watched in a group,” says Halberg. “Imagine the jump scares and screams echoing in a dark theater filled with strangers – it’s a guaranteed adrenaline rush!” Cohen adds, “Think of it as a Halloween night adventure with your closest companions, venturing into a haunted house. ‘Tarot’ is crafted for the big screen, so grab your friends and prepare to be spooked!”
Don’t miss your chance to witness the horrifying consequences of meddling with fate. Catch “Tarot,” starring Fil-Am actor Jacob Batalon, hitting Philippine cinemas nationwide on May 1. The film is distributed by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Join the conversation online using the hashtag #TarotMovie.
Imagine a world where every childhood imaginary friend is not just a figment of creativity but a living, breathing character. This is the enchanting reality of “IF,” the latest fantasy comedy directed by John Krasinski. With an impressive ensemble cast lending their voices, including the likes of George Clooney, Bradley Cooper, and Steve Carell, this film promises to be a delightful adventure for audiences of all ages.
About the Film: “IF” – A Journey of Imagination and Discovery
“IF” tells the captivating story of a young girl with the unique ability to see everyone’s imaginary friends. This extraordinary power leads her on a whimsical journey to reunite these forgotten creatures with the children who once imagined them. The film stars Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, and Cailey Fleming, with additional voice performances from Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Louis Gossett Jr., creating a vivid palette of characters that celebrate the limitless creativity of the mind.
Stellar Cast Bringing Fantasy to Life
The voice cast of “IF” is a veritable who’s who of Hollywood talent, bringing depth and charm to their animated counterparts. George Clooney, Bradley Cooper, and Steve Carell join Blake Lively and Matt Damon in bringing a touch of magic to the silver screen. Supported by the talents of Ryan Reynolds, Fiona Shaw, and an adorable turn by Alan Kim, “IF” showcases the dynamic possibilities when imagination is given free rein.
Experience “IF” in Theaters
Mark your calendars for May 15, as “IF” makes its Philippine debut, distributed by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Don’t miss the opportunity to dive into this fantastical world where dreams come alive. Stay connected with updates and sneak peeks by following the hashtag #IFMovie and tagging @paramountpicsph on your social media platforms.
This delightful film invites viewers of all ages to rediscover the joys of childhood through the eyes of its vibrant characters. Whether you’re a fan of comedy, fantasy, or just stellar storytelling, “IF” is a must-see that will leave you believing in the magic of imagination. Join us in theaters and let your own imagination soar!
Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
Get set for a fantastic week at the cinemas! Whether you’re drawn to the historical espionage of “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare,” the chilling twists of “Abigail,” the apocalyptic tension in “Arcadian,” the romantic mysteries of “Under Parallel Skies,” the emotional discoveries in “X & Y,” or the motivational tale of “Yolo,” there’s a film ready to capture your imagination. Each film brings its unique flavor to the big screen, featuring dynamic casts and gripping storylines that promise a well-rounded movie-going experience. Make sure to catch these new releases that span genres from action and comedy to drama and horror—there’s truly a movie for everyone this week!
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
2024 • PG • 1 hr 59 mins ACTION, COMEDY, HISTORY, THRILLER, WAR BUY TICKETS
Kicking off with a bang, “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” promises to be a rollicking ride through the lesser-known corridors of World War II history. Starring Henry Cavill, Eiza González, and Alan Ritchson, this film brings together action, comedy, and a dash of historical intrigue. Directed by the skilled hands that once crafted iconic spy thrillers, this film explores how Winston Churchill and Ian Fleming birthed a clandestine combat group that would redefine modern warfare. Expect a blend of gritty action sequences and a thrilling plot that’s as strategic as it is explosive.
Switching gears to something darker, “Abigail” presents a horror-thriller that turns the tables on a group of hapless criminals. The storyline twists around a seemingly simple kidnapping that goes horrifyingly wrong. Featuring Alisha Weir, Melissa Barrera, and Dan Stevens, this film is set in an eerie, isolated mansion where nothing is as it seems. As the night progresses, each captor’s nightmare comes to life, making “Abigail” a gripping watch filled with suspense and unexpected frights.
For those who lean towards sci-fi mixed with horror, “Arcadian” offers a bleak glimpse into a post-apocalyptic future. Starring Nicolas Cage, Jaeden Martell, and Maxwell Jenkins, this film paints a grim picture of a family’s daily struggle against a mysterious evil that hunts them every night. The intensity escalates when a desperate search for a missing family member leads to a night filled with terror and a fight for survival. This film is perfect for those who crave heart-pounding action and nerve-wracking suspense.
In the realm of drama and romance, “Under Parallel Skies” tells a story of painful pasts and mysterious connections. Starring Metawin Opas-iamkajorn and Janella Salvador, this film explores the serendipitous link between two seemingly unrelated lives. As the layers of their past unfold, the characters find themselves entangled in a love story that is as enchanting as it is heartbreaking. This movie is a must-watch for those who love a good cry and a romance that promises more than just fleeting butterflies.
Another romantic drama hitting the screens is “X & Y,” where chance encounters lead to unexpected journeys. Featuring Ina Raymundo and Will Ashley, this film combines the charm of road trips with the discovery of new love. As the characters travel together, their pasts and presents intertwine, making for a compelling narrative about forgiveness, family, and finding love in the most unexpected places.
2024 • R-13 • 2 hrs 9 mins ACTION, COMEDY, DRAMA BUY TICKETS
Rounding out this week’s releases, “YOLO” returns to offer more of Leying’s inspiring journey from solitude to self-discovery. Jia Ling not only directs but stars in this action-comedy-drama that follows Leying as she finds new purpose in life through boxing. This film is a testament to the power of second chances and personal transformation, making it a perfect pick for those who enjoy uplifting stories with a hearty dose of humor and drama.
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:
This week’s array of movies offers a mix of laughter, tears, thrills, and chills. Whether you’re planning a solo movie night or a cinema outing with friends or family, there’s a film on offer that will meet your mood. So, grab your popcorn and head to your nearest cinema to catch these captivating movies that promise to entertain, inspire, and perhaps even change the way you see the world. Happy watching!
Universal Pictures is thrilled to announce the midnight screenings of the anticipated heist-turned-horror film, “Abigail,” set to hit theaters nationwide on April 17. Directed by the visionary team behind the “Scream” series, Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, “Abigail” promises to deliver a thrilling cinematic experience combining high stakes, unexpected twists, and a sinister supernatural element.
Plot Overview: A Bloody Twist on the Heist Genre
“Abigail” starts with a daring heist orchestrated by six strangers, each with a unique skill set, aiming to steal $50 million from a reclusive kingpin. The plot thickens when the crew kidnaps the kingpin’s daughter, Abigail, a seemingly innocent ballerina, only to discover she’s a centuries-old vampire with a thirst for blood. As the night progresses in a remote mansion, the team members are hunted down one by one, turning their mission into a fight for survival.
Meet the Stellar Cast
Alisha Weir as Abigail: Playing the dual role of a kidnapped ballerina and a terrifying vampire, Weir brings a chilling depth to her character.
Melissa Barrera as Joey: The team’s medic, whose empathy and combat skills are crucial to the story’s dynamic.
Dan Stevens as Frank: The ethically complex leader, Stevens portrays a character caught between greed and survival.
Kathryn Newton as Sammy: A hacker in it for the thrills, Newton adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the ensemble.
Kevin Durand as Peter: The muscle of the group, Durand explores the moral dilemmas of a man on the edge.
Will Catlett as Rickles: A skilled sniper with a strong moral code, Catlett’s character senses the underlying danger early on.
Angus Cloud as Dean: One of his final roles, Cloud’s portrayal of the talented wheelman adds a poignant layer to the film.
Giancarlo Esposito as Lambert: The mastermind behind the scenes, Esposito’s character orchestrates the complex heist with a mix of charm and menace.
Melissa Barrera’s Joey in a bloody mess in “Abigail”
A Tribute to Angus Cloud
“Abigail” serves as one of the final screen appearances of Angus Cloud, who passed away in July 2023. His performance is not only pivotal but also a testament to his irreplaceable talent and charismatic presence. Producer William Sherak reflects, “Angus was a beacon of joy on set, and while we celebrate his incredible performance, we also honor his memory.”
The heist crew (from left): Dean (Angus Cloud), Sammy (Kathryn Newton), Peter (Kevin Durand) carrying a sedated Abigail (Alisha Weir), Frank (Dan Stevens), Joey (Melissa Barrera), Rickles (Will Catlett) in “Abigail.”
Experience the Horror in Theaters
Co-director Tyler Gillett shares, “We crafted ‘Abigail‘ to be an experience that combines the thrill of a heist with the terror of horror. We want audiences to leave the theater both terrified and exhilarated.” The film invites audiences to experience this unique blend at the special midnight screenings, ensuring a communal cathartic experience of fear and excitement.
Kathryn Newton’s Sammy in creepy darkness in “Abigail”
Booking and Social Media Details
Tickets for “Abigail” are available now. Fans are encouraged to book early to secure their seats for the midnight screenings on April 17. For more updates, follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Fangs out and fear ready – “Abigail” is your ticket to a bloody, unforgettable night at the cinema!
Photo and Trailer Credit: Universal Pictures International
Get ready to tap your feet to the catchy beats of Keith Urban and Snoop Dogg’s latest hit, “Let It Roll”. This lead single from the highly anticipated official soundtrack of The Garfield Movie promises to be your new favorite earworm. Accompanied by a vibrant lyric video, the track sets the perfect mood for the film’s release. With Chris Pratt lending his voice to the iconic Garfield, and Samuel L. Jackson as his dad, this movie is packed with star power and is set to hit Philippine cinemas on May 29, 2024.
Garfield, the lasagna-loving cat who famously detests Mondays, finds himself whisked away from his comfortable life for an uproarious outdoor adventure. Voiced by the charismatic Chris Pratt, Garfield encounters his father, Vic, a street-smart stray voiced by the legendary Samuel L. Jackson. This unexpected family reunion kicks off a thrilling escapade filled with humor and mischief, as they pull off a high-stakes heist.
Directed by the talented Mark Dindal and written by Paul A. Kaplan, Mark Torgove, and David Reynolds, The Garfield Movie brings together a dynamic ensemble cast. Alongside Pratt and Jackson, the film features voices from Ving Rhames, Nicholas Hoult, and Snoop Dogg, enhancing the animated journey with their unique charisma.
Production Excellence: A Creative Collaboration
Produced by an impressive team including John Cohen, Broderick Johnson, and more, with Jim Davis himself as an executive producer, this film is a testament to creative storytelling and cinematic excellence.
Mark Your Calendars: Catch the Fun This May
Don’t miss out on this captivating blend of comedy, adventure, and heartwarming moments. The Garfield Movie is distributed by Columbia Pictures, a local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Join the excitement and connect with fans using the hashtag #GarfieldMovie.
Let’s roll into the theaters and enjoy the laughter and thrills that only Garfield can bring! Get your tickets early and be part of this unforgettable movie experience.
