In an electrifying opening weekend, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” has not only topped the U.S. box office charts but also propelled the beloved Ghostbusters franchise past a monumental $1 billion milestone. The latest installment, featuring a star-studded ensemble including Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Finn Wolfhard, and McKenna Grace, captivated audiences across the globe, amassing a staggering $45.2 million in the U.S. alone, contributing to its impressive $61.6 million worldwide gross.
A Phenomenal Return to Ghostbusting Glory
Set against the iconic backdrop of New York City’s firehouse, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” reintroduces the Spengler family as they join forces with the original Ghostbusters. Together, they confront an ancient evil threatening to plunge the world into a chilling new Ice Age. This thrilling adventure combines the classic Ghostbusters charm with a fresh, exhilarating storyline, seamlessly weaving together nostalgia and innovation.
Critics Rave: A Delightful Blend of Laughter and Thrills
Critics have lauded “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” for its masterful balance of humor and suspense. The Hollywood Reporter commends the film for its “breezy” entertainment value, ensuring a delightful viewing experience. Meanwhile, Deadline highlights the exceptional performances, particularly praising the “flaky chemistry” between Rudd and Coon and the authentic portrayal of teenage characters by Wolfhard and Grace.
Anticipation Builds in the Philippines
Eagerly awaited by fans, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” is set to premiere in the Philippines on April 10, distributed by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. This global cinematic event promises to bring families and fans together for an unforgettable ghostbusting adventure.
About “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire”
Directed by Gil Kenan and co-written with Jason Reitman, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” draws inspiration from the original 1984 classic. The film boasts a dynamic cast, including new and returning stars, setting the stage for an epic showdown to save humanity from an icy doom.
I knew nothing of the 2017 hit film ‘Wonder’ or the graphic novel of the same name that it was based on, so I was coming into the sequel/prequel ‘White Bird: A Wonder Story’ with a clean slate. I didn’t know the context as to why the Julian (Bryce Gheisar, who reprises his role from the first movie) has moved to a new school due to, what we later find out, is an incident of bullying from his previous one. To my surprise, they never expounded on Julian’s past. Apparently, that was done in ‘Wonder.’ For ‘White Bird: A Wonder Story,’ the story revolves around Julian’s grandmother (Helen Mirren), an artist from Paris, who has come to New York as a gallery is giving her a retrospective exhibit. She takes the time to bond with her grandson and shares her story with him, to help him understand what he did that was so wrong.
The grandmother’s story is one set in World War II, a young Sara (Ariella Glasser) witnesses her town slowly change as the Nazi presence gets stronger and stronger within her peaceful, picturesque town in the French countryside. When the Nazis come in full force and try to roundup all the Jews, her teacher and principal try to help her, and the other Jewish kids escape. The boy she likes, Vincent (Jem Matthews) gives them up and while all the other kids are taken, she manages to escape and with the help of the school outcast, the polio-stricken Julien (Orlando Schwerdt), she manages to flee and hide in his barn with the help of Julien’s parents.
As the Nazi occupation in France tightens, Sara’s world becomes extremely small. Her whole life revolves around the empty barn and the regular visits from Julien, who has become her lifeline. To pass the time, Julien shares his schoolwork with her, and they both engage in make-believe games that opens up both their worlds in fantastic ways that cinema can exploit so wonderfully through special effects, camerawork, and great acting.
Gillian Anderson as Vivienne and Ariella Glaser as Sara in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Larry Horricks
‘White Bird: A Wonder Story’ benefits from strong performances by its young cast. Glasser and Schwerdt are the grounding force that keeps the film charming and engaging. The way their friendship blossoms into love was portrayed with youthful innocence amidst the tension-filled backdrop of Nazi-occupied France. Mirren is always a solid performer, bringing charm to an otherwise standard characterization of the French artist-grandmother figure. Despite the role being that of a narrator to the main story told in flashback, there are hints of a loving, concerned grandmother in the way she relates to Gheisar that adds a little something to the mix. Gillian Anderson doesn’t get to do much as Julien’s mother other than the standard fare of a film of this tone and subject matter.
Gillian Anderson as Vivienne and Ariella Glaser as Sara in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Larry Horricks
There’s a timeliness to the story about the kindness that bloomed in the face of the Nazi fascist regime. The way people went out of their way to help the Jews during this time of brutal persecution. I can see how the story relates to Julian’s own story from ‘Wonder,’ which I only read about after seeing ‘White Bird: A Wonder Story’ but the way it echoes the current global climate regarding the destruction of Palestinian lives and way of life does not go unnoticed. The film is a straight-up, standard feel-good film that director Marc Foster has quite some success in with films like ‘Finding Neverland’ and ‘A Man Called Otto.’ He manages to take these almost formulaic plot lines and mines them for all its cinematic potential and delivers a film that can be quite predictable but still hits the right buttons.
Orlando Schwerdt as Julien and Ariella Glaser as Sara in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Larry HorricksOrlando Schwerdt as Julien and Ariella Glaser as Sara in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Larry Horricks
This is not a subtle movie with its cheesy lines about kindness and how light can conquer the darkness. It even ends with Mirren’s grandmother character making a speech at the exhibition of her retrospective that allows her to underscore the core message of the film just in case anyone may have missed it. The timing of this film’s released is suspect but for anyone looking for something hopeful, something magical to watch during these dark times, ‘White Bird: A Wonder Story’ is offering itself fully to the audience to address this lack.
The otherworldly gates have swung open once again with the release of the “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” teaser trailer, reigniting the excitement for the return of cinema’s most beloved poltergeist. This spellbinding preview marks the comeback of the original dynamic trio: Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and visionary director Tim Burton. Together, they resurrect the blend of eerie mischief and dark comedy that first captivated audiences.
A Haunting Reunion: Legacy Cast Members Return
Michael Keaton dons the iconic striped suit once more, stepping into the mischievous shoes of Beetlejuice, the afterlife’s most charismatic trickster. Alongside him, Winona Ryder revives Lydia Deetz, now entangled in a new web of supernatural dilemmas, with Catherine O’Hara returning to her acclaimed role. This stellar ensemble promises to rekindle the film’s original charm and eccentricity.
Introducing New Mysteries and Characters
Jenna Ortega joins the fray as Astrid, Lydia’s daughter, whose curiosity unleashes a fresh cascade of ghostly events. The sequel also welcomes stars such as Justin Theroux, Monica Bellucci, Arthur Conti, and Willem Dafoe, blending familiar faces with new talent to refresh the beloved universe.
The Story Unfolds
Tragedy brings the Deetz family back to Winter River, where a curious discovery and a series of unintended actions herald the return of Beetlejuice. Lydia faces the chaos of managing her daughter’s adventurous spirit while dealing with the pandemonium that inevitably follows the invocation of Beetlejuice’s name.
Creative Minds at Work
Under Tim Burton’s unique direction, with a screenplay by Alfred Gough & Miles Millar, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is poised to be a masterpiece of modern gothic storytelling. Produced by a team of industry stalwarts, including Marc Toberoff, Dede Gardner, and Jeremy Kleiner, the film seeks to honor its roots while exploring new narrative depths.
Save the Date
Destined to enchant and amuse, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” will premiere in Philippine cinemas on September 4, 2024. Brought to audiences by Warner Bros. Pictures, this sequel invites fans and newcomers alike to partake in the unforgettable chaos and comedy that only Beetlejuice can conjure.
Brace yourselves for a colossal event as a portal from Hollow Earth breaches reality, unleashing the Titans – the fearsome Godzilla and the legendary Kong – in Manila! From March 25 to April 6, the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall will be transformed into the captivating “Titans Emerge” exhibit. This unmissable experience offers fans of the forthcoming film, “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,” a unique opportunity to come face-to-face with these colossal creatures. Imagine capturing a photo with the almighty Godzilla reigning supreme in front of the Roman Colosseum, or experiencing the awe-inspiring presence of Kong amidst the Great Pyramids – all meticulously recreated to mirror scenes straight from the movie.
Channel your inner strategist and engage in mammoth-sized tic-tac-toe matches inspired by these legendary beasts! These oversized boards provide the perfect backdrop for a commemorative photo or a friendly (or perhaps not-so-friendly) competition with fellow monster enthusiasts.
The much-anticipated “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” roars into Philippine cinemas on Black Saturday, March 30th! This electrifying sequel picks up where its predecessor left off, with the two iconic Titans forced to forge an unlikely alliance against a formidable new threat emerging from the uncharted depths of Hollow Earth. This cinematic spectacle not only promises a legendary clash but also delves deeper into the origins of these magnificent creatures, unraveling the mysteries of Skull Island and beyond.
Don’t miss your chance to witness this epic battle unfold on the silver screen! Tickets for “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” are available for pre-order now at select cinemas through www.godzillaxkong.com.ph. Guarantee your seat and prepare to be astonished by the awe-inspiring return of these cinematic giants!
Share your excitement and theories surrounding the film using the hashtag #GodzillaxKong on social media platforms!
About “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire”
The epic battle continues! Legendary Pictures’ cinematic Monsterverse follows up the explosive showdown of “Godzilla vs. Kong” with an all-new adventure that pits the almighty Kong and the fearsome Godzilla against a colossal undiscovered threat hidden within our world, challenging their very existence—and our own. “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” delves further into the histories of these Titans and their origins, as well as the mysteries of Skull Island and beyond, while uncovering the mythic battle that helped forge these extraordinary beings and tied them to humankind forever.
Once again at the helm is director Adam Wingard. The screenplay is by Terry Rossio (“Godzilla vs. Kong” the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series) and Simon Barrett (“You’re Next”) and Jeremy Slater (“Moon Knight”), from a story by Rossio & Wingard & Barrett, based on the character “Godzilla” owned and created by TOHO Co., Ltd. The film is produced by Mary Parent, Alex Garcia, Eric Mcleod, Thomas Tull, Jon Jashni and Brian Rogers. The executive producers are Wingard, Jen Conroy, Jay Ashenfelter, Yoshimitsu Banno, Kenji Okuhira.
The film stars Rebecca Hall (“Godzilla vs. Kong,” The Night House”), Brian Tyree Henry (“Godzilla vs. Kong,” “Bullet Train”), Dan Stevens (“Gaslit,” “Legion,” “Beauty and the Beast”), Kaylee Hottle (“Godzilla vs. Kong”), Alex Ferns (“The Batman,” “Wrath of Man,” “Chernobyl”) and Fala Chen (“Irma Vep,” “Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”).
In cinemas March 30, 2024, “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.
China’s top grossing female director Jia Ling’s hit comedy drama YOLOhas made over $1.5 million in the United States/Canada since its theatrical debut on International Women’s Day on March 8. Distributed via Sony Pictures Releasing International (SPRI), the film has made a total of $2.8 million in SPRI markets through Sunday, March 17, including $1.5 million from the U.S./Canada. Sony Pictures International Productions acquired international distribution rights to the hit film written, directed and starring Jia Ling.
Coming off its incredible performance in China and positive audience reaction, the Chinese-language film was released in 200 U.S./Canadian theaters on March 8 and had a superb opening weekend of $840K ($4,200 per location average), securing a spot in the Top 10 at the U.S./Canadian weekend box office. The film is currently playing in theaters.
Outside of the U.S./Canada, SPRI has released the film in Australia and New Zealand (combined running gross of $615K), with Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore to open on March 21, the Philippines on April 17 and Thailand on April 18.
Since opening in China on February 10, YOLO became a sensation and grossed $484 million at the local box office and has become the highest-grossing film over the Lunar New Year holiday and retained the #1 spot two weekends in a row. Worldwide, the film has made a combined $486 million through March 17.
Le Ying (played by Jia Ling) has been staying at home for many years, doing nothing in particular. After graduating from college and working for a while, Le Ying chooses to withdraw from society, closing herself off from social circles, which she believes is the best way to “reconcile” with herself. 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 Hao Kun (played by Lei Jia Yin). Just when she thinks life is about to take a positive turn, the challenges that follow far exceed her imagination, and her vibrant life is just beginning.
This August, prepare for an extraordinary journey into the heart of creativity and boundless imagination with the premiere of “Harold and the Purple Crayon.” Following the release of its much-anticipated trailer, the film starring Zachary Levi and Zooey Deschanel promises to enchant audiences of all ages, exclusively in cinemas.
A Classic Tale Reimagined
At the core of this enchanting tale is Harold (portrayed by Zachary Levi), an adventurous soul with the unique ability to bring his drawings to life with his magical purple crayon. Transitioning from the confines of his book into the tangible world, Harold embarks on a thrilling odyssey that teaches him the complexities of real life. Alongside his friends, Harold discovers that his purple crayon triggers more whimsical escapades than anticipated, challenging them to harness the power of imagination to safeguard both their reality and the fantastical world they cherish.
“Harold and the Purple Crayon” is more than a movie; it’s an invitation to dream. With its groundbreaking visual effects, the film invites audiences to visualize the power of imagination like never before. From whimsical landscapes to the vibrant hues of Harold’s crayon, each frame is a testament to the boundless creativity that defines this iconic story.
Join the Adventure
Be part of this magical journey as “Harold and the Purple Crayon” makes its debut in cinemas across the Philippines this August. Brought to you by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, this film is a celebration of creativity, friendship, and the endless possibilities that imagination holds.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure. Connect with us and share your excitement using the hashtag #HaroldAndThePurpleCrayon @columbiapicph. Let the journey begin!
Exhuma, the new mystery thriller directed by Jang Jae-Hyun (Svaha: The Sixth Finger, The Priests), has topped the box office in Korea for the fourth consecutive weekend. Boasting a stellar cast led by Choi Min-sik, Kim Go-eun, Yoo Hai-jin and Lee Do-hyun, Exhuma is now showing in Philippine cinemas.
Since its release in Korea on February 22, Exhuma has grossed $68 million (USD) and is currently the highest-grossing Korean film of 2024. According to data from KoBiz, a box office tracking service operated by the Korean Film Council (Kofic), the film has had 9.5 million admissions as of March 19.
Exhuma tells the story of two talented shamans, a geomancer and a mortician tasked to find a mysterious grave – and unknowingly unleash a malevolent force buried underneath.
Find out what lies beneath the grave in Exhuma, now showing in Philippine cinemas. #ExhumaMoviePH #Exhuma @columbiapicph
After suffering from serial paranormal events, a wealthy family living in LA summons a young rising shaman duo Hwa Rim (Kim Go-Eun) and Bong Gil (Lee Do-Hyun) to save the newborn of the family. Once they arrive, Hwa Rim senses a dark shadow of their ancestor has latched on the family in a so-called “Grave Calling.” In order to exhume the grave and relieve the ancestor, Hwa Rim seeks help from top-notch geomancer Sang Deok (Choi Min-Shik) and mortician Yeong Geun (Yoo Hae-Jin). To their dismay, the four find the grave at a shady location in a remote village in Korea. Unaware of the consequences, the exhumation is carried out, unleashing a malevolent force buried underneath.
Exhuma is now showing in Philippine cinemas, distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. #ExhumaMoviePH #Exhuma @columbiapicph
Prepare to be thrust back into George Miller’s legendary dystopian universe with the release of the new trailer for “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga“. Starring Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Hemsworth, Alyla Browne, and Tom Burke, this summer promises an action-packed adventure that will take audiences on a wild ride through the iconic Wasteland.
Journey to the Origins of a Warrior
“Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” delves deep into the backstory of the titular character, exploring her beginnings in a world ravaged by war and desolation. Directed by the Academy Award-winning visionary George Miller, and written alongside “Mad Max: Fury Road” co-writer Nico Lathouris, the film promises to be a breathtaking expedition filled with danger, tyranny, and the quest for redemption.
A Cast Set to Dazzle
With Anya Taylor-Joy taking on the fierce role of Furiosa, and supported by the talents of Chris Hemsworth, Alyla Browne, and Tom Burke, this film is set to showcase performances that blend raw intensity with deep emotional resonance. Produced by Miller and his longtime partner, Doug Mitchell, under the banner of Kennedy Miller Mitchell, “Furiosa” is the culmination of storytelling mastery and cinematic excellence.
Mark Your Calendars: May 22, 2024
The wait is almost over. “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” is set to premiere in Philippine cinemas on May 22, 2024. Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, this film is not just a return to a beloved universe, but a new chapter that expands the Mad Max lore in thrilling, unexpected ways.
Be Part of the Adventure
As the new trailer sets the stage for the epic saga to unfold, join the global conversation using #Furiosa on social media. Share your excitement, engage with fellow fans, and prepare for a cinematic journey that promises to be as unforgettable as it is groundbreaking.
Get ready for “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” – an action-packed adventure where destiny, determination, and the drive to overcome the odds converge in the vast, vibrant Wasteland. This is not just a movie; it’s an experience that will ignite the spirit of adventure in everyone who dares to embark on this journey.
Three years after the ghost-catching legacy was reignited with “Ghostbusters: Afterlife”, the specter-chasing saga continues with “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire“. Directed by Gil Kenan and produced by Jason Reitman, this latest installment promises a fusion of laughs, scares, and undying fun, reviving the spirit of the original films for both new audiences and devoted fans.
A Family Affair: Legacy & Innovation
Jason Reitman, stepping into his familial legacy with “Afterlife”, shared his vision for “Frozen Empire” with his father, Ivan Reitman, the original Ghostbusters’ guiding hand, in what would be their final story exchange. Co-written with Gil Kenan, “Frozen Empire” honors its roots while charting new terrains.
The Spectral Saga Continues
In “Frozen Empire”, the Spengler clan, alongside returning stars McKenna Grace, Paul Rudd, and Finn Wolfhard, reunite with the original ghostbusters at the iconic New York firehouse, now a nexus of ghost-busting innovation. The discovery of an ancient artifact sets them against an icy evil threatening to usher in a second Ice Age, challenging our heroes to blend old wisdom with new bravery.
Echoes of the Past, Voices of the Present
Dan Aykroyd, reprising his role as Ray Stantz, highlights the seamless narrative continuity and the genuine essence of camaraderie and cosmic confrontation that defined the original films. This blend of ordinary lives entwined with extraordinary encounters makes “Frozen Empire” a heartfelt homage to the series’ beginnings.
For the Love of Ghostbusting
Director Gil Kenan shares his personal journey with “Ghostbusters”, from childhood awe to creative inspiration. “Frozen Empire” seeks to recapture the series’ hallmark blend of thrills and laughter, offering a gateway for newcomers and a nostalgic trip for long-time admirers. Kenan’s vision celebrates the joyous, thrilling exploration of the supernatural, inviting audiences of all ages to partake in the ghost-busting adventure.
Mark Your Calendars
Prepare to re-enter the ghostly fray with “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire“, as it arrives in Philippine cinemas on April 10, thanks to Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, this latest chapter in the Ghostbusters legacy promises an enthralling mix of humor, horror, and heroism, proving once again that when it comes to saving the world from spectral threats, who you gonna call?
It’s another exciting week at the movies with a diverse lineup of films! Brace yourself for a spine-tingling experience with “Immaculate” and “Exhuma,” where horror meets mystery in tales of dark secrets and supernatural encounters. If animated adventures are more your style, join the charming duo in “Noah’s Ark: A Musical Adventure” as they navigate the floodwaters with catchy tunes and heartwarming camaraderie. For those seeking a blend of laughter and frights, “Pagpag 24/7” is here to deliver thrills and chills with its unique fusion of comedy and horror. And if adrenaline-pumping action is what you crave, look no further than “The Wild,” where betrayal and redemption collide in the world of underground boxing. Rounding off our lineup is the touching drama “White Bird: A Wonder Story,” offering a poignant tale of love and resilience set against the backdrop of wartime France. With such a diverse array of offerings, there’s no shortage of excitement at the movies this week!
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
Prepare to be gripped by fear and suspense as “Immaculate” transports viewers into the heart of a chilling mystery. Follow Cecilia, portrayed by the talented Sydney Sweeney, as she embarks on a journey of faith and terror within the confines of an Italian convent. With secrets lurking in every shadow, this atmospheric thriller, led by Álvaro Morte and Benedetta Porcaroli, promises to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Step into a realm of supernatural horrors with “Exhuma,” a bone-chilling tale of ancestral curses and forbidden secrets. Witness the spine-tingling performances of Choi Min-sik, Kim Go-eun, and Yoo Hai-jin as they confront malevolent forces from beyond the grave. Brace yourself for a journey into darkness as Hwa-rim and Bong-gil race against time to exorcise the sinister presence haunting a wealthy family in LA.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 35 mins ANIMATION, COMEDY, MUSIC BUY TICKETS
Get ready to embark on a whimsical musical adventure with “Noah’s Ark,” a delightful animation guaranteed to enchant audiences of all ages. Join Vini and Tito, voiced by Rodrigo Santoro and Alice Braga, as they weave a tapestry of harmony and friendship amidst the chaos of Noah’s flood. With toe-tapping tunes and heartwarming moments aplenty, this charming tale is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Prepare for a rollercoaster ride of laughs and scares with “Pagpag 24/7,” a comedy-horror hybrid that defies expectations at every turn. Follow the misadventures of two friends, portrayed by Danita Paner and Jerald Napoles, as they navigate the terrifying confines of a haunted convenience store. With a blend of humor and horror, this gem promises thrills, chills, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Brace yourself for high-octane action and intense drama in “The Wild,” a gripping narrative of friendship, betrayal, and redemption. Follow the journey of Woo-chul and Do-shik, portrayed by Park Sung-woong and Oh Dae-hwan, as they navigate the treacherous world of underground boxing. With pulse-pounding fight sequences and compelling performances, this adrenaline-fueled thriller is not to be missed.
Prepare to be moved by the poignant tale of “White Bird,” a heartfelt story of love, loss, and resilience set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied France. Follow the transformative journey of Julian Albans as he unravels the remarkable story of his Grandmère’s courage and compassion. With stirring performances from Ariella Glaser, Orlando Schwerdt, and Bryce Gheisar, this touching drama is sure to tug at the heartstrings.
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:
That’s a wrap for this week’s new movie releases. So, don’t wait! Secure your tickets, grab your popcorn, and immerse yourself in the excitement of these new releases. As always, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on these must-see releases. Remember to check ClickTheCity for screening times and make your next movie-going experience unforgettable. Stay tuned for next week’s movie updates, and happy watching!
