Category: Movies

  • “The Fall Guy”: A High-Octane, Hilarity-Fueled Thriller Hits Philippine Cinemas This May

    The action-packed world of stunts leaps onto the big screen with “The Fall Guy,” featuring the star-studded duo of Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt. Scheduled to thrill audiences in Philippine cinemas starting May 1, this apex-action thriller melds jaw-dropping stunts with rib-tickling comedy and a touch of romance, creating an unforgettable cinematic experience.

    Ryan Gosling: From Ken to Colt Seavers

    Fresh off his Oscar®-nominated role in “Barbie,” Ryan Gosling transitions into the shoes of Colt Seavers, a stuntman ensnared in a whirlwind of chaos, conspiracy, and love. Directed by David Leitch, known for his work on “Bullet Train” and “Deadpool 2,” “The Fall Guy” promises to be a tribute to the unsung heroes of the film industry – the stunt performers.

    The Fall Guy Emily Blunt
    Emily Blunt in “The Fall Guy”

    Emily Blunt: The Director and The Ex

    Emily Blunt shines as Jody Moreno, the director of the movie within the movie and Colt’s ex-lover, whose cold exterior masks a complex character entangled in the high-stakes world of movie-making. Blunt’s portrayal adds depth and humor, highlighting the absurd yet beautiful reality of creating action-packed cinema.

    The Fall Guy Ryan Gosling Emily Blunt 2
    Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt in “The Fall Guy”

    A Love Letter to the Action Genre

    David Leitch, with a background in stunts, crafts “The Fall Guy” as his most personal film to date. It’s an ode to the daring, the dramatic, and the dedicated individuals behind the camera. At its heart, the film is an exciting journey into the life of those who perform the death-defying acts that captivate audiences worldwide.

    Why You Can’t Miss “The Fall Guy“

    • Star-Powered Performances: Gosling and Blunt deliver performances that blend action with emotion, humor with heartbreak.
    • Behind-the-Scenes Brilliance: A unique glimpse into the making of action films, celebrating the stunt community’s talent and tenacity.
    • David Leitch’s Vision: A thrilling ride through the lens of a director who lives and breathes action cinema.
    The Fall Guy Ryan Gosling Aaron Taylor Johnson Ben Jenkin Logan Holladay Justin Eaton David Leitch
    Ryan Gosling, costar Aaron Taylor-Johnson, stunt performers Ben Jenkin, Logan Holladay and Justin Eaton, and director David Leitch on the set of “The Fall Guy”

    As “The Fall Guy” gears up to make a splash in Philippine cinemas, audiences are in for a treat. This film is not just a movie; it’s a movement. It acknowledges and celebrates the stunt community’s contribution to the magic of movies. Mark your calendars for May 1 and prepare to be entertained like never before.

    #TheFallGuyMoviePH – Experience the thrill, the laughter, and the love of action cinema’s unsung heroes.

    Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG) and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest updates on The Fall Guy.

    Photo & Trailer Credit: Universal Pictures International

  • MOVIE REVIEW: Big Laughs, Bigger Heart: a review of the Chinese blockbuster film ‘YOLO’

    The first thirty minutes of ‘YOLO’ was a little difficult to jump into – the first act takes its time to establish the world of its main character Leying (performed by Jia Ling, who is also the director and co-writer of the movie), an overweight bum, who lives with her parents and does not have a job. In the first half-hour, the film is filled with jokes and jabs that are meant to shame Leying for being overweight and lazy, oftentimes bordering on jokes that are insensitive and in the general area of fat-shaming. She gets into a fight with her sister while also discovering her boyfriend is cheating on her with her best friend. While some jokes are funny – the ones not centering around her weight or laziness – it’s mostly a difficult first half hour to stomach.

    When Leying finally leaves home, sets out on her own, to get a job and distance herself from her family and friends who have treated her with so much disdain does the film find its footing and begins to soar. Lying meets up with a boxing coach just across her place of work and a series of hilarious mishaps puts them together and she finds herself motivated to get her life in order. The remaining three-fourths of the film is a hilarious, inspiring story about a woman taking charge of her life having felt like a loser for the past decade. 

    YOLO production still 2

    ‘YOLO’ is Jia Ling’s sophomore directorial effort after the popular and successful debut outing ‘Hi, Mom.’ In preparation for this film, Jia Ling gained 20 kilograms to play Leying and then lost just so much more in the film. The film took over a year to shoot because it included Leying’s incredible transformation in setting her life straight. If all stories are centered around a change, this is the most cinematic of changes that happens in ‘YOLO’ because it does not involve any sort of camera tricks or special effects. It’s all practical real-world transformation that goes in step with the film’s story beats for its full effect.

    YOLO production still Jia Ling

    Jia Ling’s directing is quite sophisticated and underscores her training as a comedian. She knows how to set up the camera and edit to maximize the comedy. There’s a subversive way that she uses the conventions of the romantic comedy to land a punchline and really set up the story that really pushes Leying to the wall and force her to make the necessary changes that would improve her life. There’s an excellent use of music, of mise-en-scene, and an unpredictable way the narrative shifts and turns that keeps ‘YOLO’ from being run-of-the-mill or predictable. 

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    At its core, the film is an underdog story that takes its time to really amplify Leying’s lot in life. It never takes the time to underscore how she got into the rut in the first place. It’s not the point of the film. It does not judge her for it. What the film is interested in are the factors that motivated her to make the change. Despite its brutal first thirty-minutes, the last hour and a half really turns around, much like Leying, and delivers the comedy while creating an emotional investment with the character and then allowing it to reach a satisfying ending that feels earned and offers some catharsis.

    YOLO production still

    Jia Ling is captivating as Leying. She is unafraid to make her so bereft of charm at the beginning of the film but manages to pull it out mid-movie as she plays off the equally wonderful Lei Jiayin, who plays her boxing coach Hao Kun. The way they play off each other as a very unsuspecting rom-com couple is used for all its comedic magic and it works very well in establishing the film’s rather triumphant second act. But the way by which the film keeps shifting and turning and moving to unexpected places is what keeps ‘YOLO’ from being what you would think it is. This is what makes Jia Ling so exciting. This is her sophomore directorial effort and she already is exercising such precision and control of her craft. I’m very much excited to see what else she sets out to do. There’s no question as to why ‘YOLO’ is the biggest blockbuster film in China for this year. It has all the laughs but still manages to present a tender heart beneath all that comedy. 

    My Rating:

    stars 4 5


    YOLO opens in PH cinemas April 17 with sneak previews on April 8 and 9. Check screening times and buy tickets in advance here.

  • Character Posters Revealed: ‘The Garfield Movie’ Brings Furry Fun This Summer

    This summer, prepare to be whisked away on a delightful journey with “The Garfield Movie,” as it brings to life the beloved comic strip character with a modern twist. Slated for a grand release on May 29, 2024, this family-friendly film features an all-star cast led by Chris Pratt as the voice of the lasagna-loving, Monday-dreading orange tabby, Garfield.

    A Spectacular Visual Treat: The Character Posters

    In anticipation of its release, “The Garfield Movie” has unveiled an exclusive collection of character posters, showcasing the vibrant personalities that make up this animated adventure. From the laid-back charm of Garfield himself to the rugged appeal of his long-lost father Vic, voiced by Samuel L. Jackson, each poster is a window into the heart and humor of the film’s beloved characters.

    Journey Into the Unknown

    Directed by Mark Dindal and penned by the creative minds of Paul A. Kaplan & Mark Torgove, along with David Reynolds, the film invites audiences to follow Garfield and his sidekick Odie as they embark on an unforeseen adventure. After a surprising reunion with Garfield’s father Vic, the trio sets off on a thrilling heist that promises laughter, action, and a dash of heartwarming moments.

    A Cast That Speaks Volumes

    “The Garfield Movie” boasts an ensemble cast featuring the talents of Hannah Waddingham, Ving Rhames, Nicholas Hoult, Cecily Strong, Harvey Guillén, Brett Goldstein, Bowen Yang, and Snoop Dogg, alongside the leading duo of Pratt and Jackson. This powerhouse lineup brings depth, diversity, and dynamism to the animated escapade.

    Behind the Magic

    Produced by a dream team comprising John Cohen, Broderick Johnson, Andrew A. Kosove, Steven P. Wegner, Craig Sost, and Namit Malhotra, with comic legend Jim Davis serving as an executive producer, “The Garfield Movie” is set to be a visual spectacle.

    The Must-See Movie of the Summer

    Distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, a division of Sony Pictures Releasing International, this cinematic gem is the family outing of the season. Engage with fellow fans using the hashtag #GarfieldMovie and get ready to indulge in a film that promises adventure, laughter, and a heartwarming narrative.

    Don’t miss the chance to join Garfield, Odie, and the rest of the gang on May 29, 2024, for a story of unexpected journeys and unbreakable bonds. “The Garfield Movie” is not just a film; it’s an experience filled with humor, emotion, and, most importantly, lasagna. Check out the stunning character posters and mark your calendars for a summer movie event that’s guaranteed to be purr-fectly entertaining.

    Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

  • New Movies This Week: ‘Infested,’ and ‘The First Omen’

    Craving a terrifying escape this weekend? This week brings a double dose of horror to the big screen, offering options for those who yearn for a good scare. Prepare to develop arachnophobia with ‘Infested‘ or immerse yourself in a chilling religious conspiracy in ‘The First Omen.’ Whether you’re in the mood for a fear of the familiar or an exploration of the occult, this week’s horror lineup caters to a variety of tastes. Don’t miss your chance to be one of the first to witness these tales of terror unfold on the big screen. Who knows? You just might find your new favorite horror film. So, muster your courage, grab your favorite movie-going friends, and get ready to be thoroughly spooked!

    Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this weekend:

    New Movies April 5 2024

    Infested

    2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 46 mins
    HORROR
    BUY TICKETS

    In “Infested,” we meet Kaleb, a man on the cusp of 30 grappling with loneliness, familial discord, and a severed friendship. His life takes a terrifying turn when, driven by his fascination for exotic animals, he brings home a venomous spider from a bazaar. This seemingly small act spirals into a nightmare as the spider escapes, multiplies, and transforms his flat into a deadly trap. With the building on lockdown and the residents caught unawares, Kaleb and his companions must navigate through the webbed corridors to find a way out alive. Starring Théo Christine, Finnegan Oldfield, and Jérôme Niel, “Infested” promises to be a thrilling ride for those who dare to enter.

    The First Omen

    2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 59 mins
    HORROR
    BUY TICKETS

    Following the legacy of the iconic “Omen” series, “The First Omen” delves into the untold story of a young American woman’s harrowing encounter with evil in Rome. Sent to serve the church, she finds herself facing a darkness that not only makes her question her faith but also uncovers a horrifying conspiracy aimed at heralding the birth of evil incarnate. Nell Tiger Free, Ralph Ineson, and Sônia Braga bring to life this tale of terror, making “The First Omen” a compelling watch for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.

    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:

    Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire

    2024 • PG • 1 hr 54 mins
    ACTION, ADVENTURE, SCIENCE FICTION
    BUY TICKETS

    The iconic titans, Godzilla and Kong, once again roar onto the screen, but this time they’re not at each other’s throats. In “The New Empire,” they face an unseen threat that’s chilling enough to force these behemoths to band together. Expect heart-pounding action, breathtaking visuals, and a story that beautifully explores the complexities of nature versus technology.

    Dearly Beloved

    2024 • PG • 1 hr 57 mins
    DRAMA, FAMILY
    BUY TICKETS

    https://youtu.be/UBJaVkr_-cE?si=kTlS1bO0AkB4DasL

    Explore the depths of love, forgiveness, and the possibility of second chances in “Dearly Beloved.” This family drama weaves a compelling narrative that asks poignant questions about life and love, making it a must-watch for anyone who believes in the power of redemption.

    Mothers’ Instinct

    2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 39 mins
    DRAMA, THRILLER
    BUY TICKETS

    When tragedy strikes, the perfect lives of two families are turned upside down, unveiling a gripping psychological thriller. “Mothers’ Instinct” delves into the psyche of two women as they navigate guilt, suspicion, and a chilling breakdown of friendship. This one will keep you guessing until the very end.

    Immaculate

    2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 29 mins
    HORROR, MYSTERY, THRILLER
    BUY TICKETS

    Exhuma

    2024 • R-13 • 2 hrs 13 mins
    HORROR, MYSTERY, THRILLER
    BUY TICKETS

    Kung Fu Panda 4

    2024 • PG • 1 hr 34 mins
    ACTION, ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY
    BUY TICKETS

    Dune: Part Two

    2024 • PG • 2 hrs 45 mins
    ADVENTURE, SCIENCE FICTION
    BUY TICKETS

    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. Stay tuned for next week’s movie updates, and happy watching!

  • Alisha Weir Unleashing Gory Vengeance as the Young Ballerina Vampire in ‘Abigail’ in Cinemas April 17!

    In the heart-pounding horror film “Abigail,” Alisha Weir takes on the dual role of Abby and Abigail, showcasing her versatility as an actress. By delving into the psyche of her character, Alisha Weir unveils the complexities of innocence twisted by darkness.

    Abigail Alisha Weir 2

    Weir’s portrayal of Abby and Abigail in “Abigail” is a masterclass in character transformation. By embracing the innocence of Abby and the malevolence of Abigail, Weir navigates the intricate layers of her character with depth and nuance. Calling the frightened, kidnapped child version of her character “Abby,” and the alpha predator “Abigail,” helped Weir approach the character as two entirely separate people. For scenes where she plays Abigail, she even altered her voice to sound “not so much like an innocent little kid, but more like a confident adult,” she shares. 

    Weir plays the titular character in “Abigail,” a blood-thirsty gore-fest that begins with a high-stakes heist, a dangerous mission that, if all goes according to plan, could net six strangers a staggering $50 million. Recruited for the job by a mysterious fixer, the team comprises the driver, the sniper, the medic, the muscle, the hacker, and the thin man, aka head of ops. Their real identities are kept secret from each other as a kind of insurance – should one of them be caught, that person would be unable to implicate her or his co-conspirators. Together, they must infiltrate the well-appointed home of a reclusive kingpin who presides over a vast criminal empire. After sedating and abducting his pre-teen ballerina daughter, Abigail, they must safely transport the girl back to a remote mansion, then settle in to wait for the sun to rise and the cash to turn up. But once inside the isolated mansion, the captors start to dwindle, one by one, and they discover, to their mounting horror, that they’re locked inside with no normal little girl. 

    For directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett (“Scream” 2022, “Scream VI”), Weir, most familiar to movie audiences for playing one of author Roald Dahl’s most beloved characters in “Matilda the Musical,” was a godsend. From the outset, the team had worried whether they’d be able to find a young actress who could believably be both earnest and sympathetic in the early scenes and terrifying and sadistic as the marauding vampire. An exhaustive search conducted with casting director Rich Delia led them to Weir, and after the filmmakers saw her audition opposite Melissa Barrera (the medic) over Zoom, they knew they’d found their girl. “She’s remarkable,” producer William Sherak says. “She’s talented and professional and engaged and excited, but still a kid. She just delivered.”

    “I’d never done a character like this, and I’ve always loved horror films,” says the now 14-year-old Weir. “Everyone’s going to feel bad for her because she’s this sweet little girl who’s been kidnapped. Then she turns out to be so much more.”

    Movement coach and choreographer Belinda Murphy (“The Last Duel,” “Vikings”) worked with Weir to develop vampire Abigail’s graceful physicality and to teach the actress how to perform the ballet sequence that opens the film. Murphy began by focusing on exercises that would build strength and stamina, which were critical, as Weir wanted to perform as many of her own stunts as possible. “I love trying new things,” Weir says. “Anything that I can do, I will do it. I’m determined. If I can’t do it, I’ll try again until I can.”

    Murphy developed a particular style of movement for the film’s first half, before Abigail is revealed to be a vampire. “That movement is very beautiful and very soft, as she appears to be just a little girl who simply loves to dance,” Murphy says. “Then when she’s vamped out, the movement became sharper and faster with more purpose and with a maturity beyond that of a little girl her size… An energy fueled by a vampire’s thirst.” 

    alisha

    Even then, vampire Abigail moves lithely, with a feline grace. “When she’s running, she has elegance even when it’s fierce,” Murphy says. “It has a feeling of a performance which is full of calculated mischief. She’s playing with them and loving every moment! She constantly has a lovely line. Because, as Alisha is a dancer, it was just natural for her to do that. So even when she was running, jumping and attacking, she always maintained that elegance. This was Abigail’s biggest recital, if you like.” 

    “Abigail” also stars Kathryn Newton (“Lisa Frankenstein,” “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania”), Dan Stevens (“Gaslit,” “Legion”), Melissa Barrera (“Scream” franchise, “In the Heights”), William Catlett (“Black Lightning,” “True Story”), Kevin Durand (“Resident Evil: Retribution,” “X-Men Origins: Wolverine”) and Angus Cloud (“Euphoria,” “North Hollywood”) as the kidnappers and Giancarlo Esposito (“Breaking Bad,” ”Better Call Saul,” “The Mandalorian”) as the mastermind. 

    Fangs out and get ready for a bloody time at the cinemas when “Abigail” opens April 17 only in cinemas. #AbigailMoviePH

    Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG) and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest updates on Abigail.

  • Unveiling “Sunshine”: Maris Racal and Antoinette Jadaone’s Bold Dive into Teenage Pregnancy

    In a striking venture into the realm of socially relevant cinema, ANIMA Studios together with Project 8 Projects proudly presents “Sunshine,” a compelling narrative directed by the critically acclaimed Antoinette Jadaone and featuring the dynamic Maris Racal in a groundbreaking role. Set against the backdrop of competitive gymnastics, the film navigates the turbulent waters of teenage pregnancy, offering a narrative that is both thought-provoking and deeply resonant.

    Sunshine 3

    A Story of Courage and Reflection

    “Sunshine” unfolds the tale of a young gymnast at the cusp of realizing her dreams when an unexpected pregnancy threatens to derail her aspirations. The film takes us on her emotional journey, intersected by a chance meeting with a mysterious girl who mirrors her innermost thoughts and fears, opening up a Pandora’s box of self-reflection and existential dilemmas.

    A Convergence of Creative Minds

    The film marks a significant milestone as the third collaboration between Racal and Jadaone, whose creative synergy has previously graced the screens with notable projects like “Simula Sa Gitna” and “The Kangks Show.” Jadaone, renowned for her ability to weave compelling narratives that strike at the heart of societal issues, as seen in her works like “Six Degrees of Separation from Lilia Cuntapay” and “Fan Girl,” brings a nuanced perspective to the delicate subject of teenage pregnancy.

    Sunshine 2

    In an enlightening conversation with Deadline, Jadaone shared, “Sunshine represents the hundreds of thousands of girls who became pregnant in their teens. These topics have always been taboo in the Philippines because of our deeply conservative roots, but when cases of teenage pregnancy and self-induced abortions rise every year, it is imperative that these stories be told.”

    A Bold Statement on Womanhood

    ANIMA and Project 8 Projects, in their collaboration, strive to boldly address sensitive issues surrounding womanhood, societal expectations, and the unique challenges faced by Filipinas today. Bianca Balbuena, General Manager of ANIMA, expressed, “Collaborating with Project 8 Projects has been a wonderful experience. ‘Sunshine’ boldly addresses sensitive topics related to womanhood, the layers that complicate it, and the societal demands Filipinas face today. Director Antoinette Jadaone’s body of work speaks largely about these themes, and we’re honored to be a part of making this story come to life. We strongly believe that many will relate to this tale.”

    Sunshine 1

    A Vision for Global Recognition

    ANIMA continues to champion Filipino talent on the global stage, with critically acclaimed productions such as “Leonor Will Never Die” and “Whether the Weather is Fine.” Project 8 Projects, under the guidance of Jadaone and Dan Villegas, remains at the forefront of Philippine cinema with its culturally impactful narratives.

    “Sunshine” is poised to not only illuminate the myriad challenges of teenage pregnancy but also to celebrate the resilience and strength of young women. As the film moves into post-production, anticipation builds for a story that promises to connect, confront, and captivate audiences worldwide.

  • Be among the first to see “YOLO”! Catch sneak previews of the global box office sensation on April 8 and 9

    The global box-office sensation, YOLO, is punching its way to Philippine cinemas! See it first in sneak previews on April 8 and 9, and find out why YOLO is highly rated. Regular cinema run starts April 17.

    YOLO sneak previews

    YOLO tells the story of Le Ying who 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. 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 Hao Kun (played by Lei Jia Yin), who just may change her life. 

    The film 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.  

    Says Cui Ting, a reviewer in China, “While directing the film, Jia Ling also needed to be ‘in character’ with all she can, to ignite the character and emotional empathy with the audience. This film truly ignites the passion from the audience, you can tell it from the standing ovation at the end of the film. Jia Ling wins at this film.”

    You only live once. Laugh and cry along with YOLO’s international movie audience. YOLO, distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, opens in Philippine cinemas on April 17. #YOLO @columbiapicph

  • Joker: Folie à Deux Unveils Haunting Poster with Joaquin Phoenix & Lady Gaga

    The streets of Gotham are buzzing with anticipation once more as Joaquin Phoenix dons the iconic makeup of the Clown Prince of Crime in the upcoming “Joker: Folie à Deux.” Adding to the fervor, Lady Gaga is set to star alongside him as the enigmatic Harley Quinn, marking a new chapter in the notorious villain’s saga. The recent release of the teaser poster has fans and cinephiles alike on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the trailer set to drop on April 10.

    Joker Folie a Deux Poster

    A Sequel Steeped in Madness and Melody

    Following the staggering success of 2019’s “Joker,” which carved its name into cinematic history by breaking box office records and garnering a slew of awards, expectations are sky-high for its sequel. “Joker: Folie à Deux” promises to delve deeper into Arthur Fleck’s chaotic journey, this time with the addition of his equally complex counterpart, Harley Quinn.

    The poster itself is a minimalist yet evocative composition. Phoenix’s Joker, his signature smeared makeup toned down in favor of a more sophisticated tuxedo, dips a crimson-lipped Lady Gaga into a slow dance. A single spotlight illuminates the pair, casting the rest of the scene in an unsettling darkness. The tagline, “The world is a stage,” hangs ominously above, hinting at a potential theatricality that may define this new chapter in Joker’s descent into madness.

    The Unlikely Duo

    Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of Arthur Fleck brought a raw, unnerving depth to the character of Joker, earning him an Academy Award for Best Actor among other accolades. The addition of Lady Gaga, known for her chameleonic talent in both music and acting, as Harley Quinn introduces a fascinating dynamic to the narrative. Her previous performances, which blend intensity with vulnerability, seem tailor-made for the role of the psychiatrist turned partner-in-crime.

    From Gritty Realism to Grandiose Delusions

    “Joker: Folie à Deux” follows the immense success of 2019’s Joker, its predecessor, which garnered critical acclaim and became the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time and the first R-rated film to gross over $1 billion worldwide. Joker was nominated for 11 Academy awards, including Best Picture, with the film winning Best Original Score and Phoenix winning for Best Actor. Other notable accolades include Best Score and Best Actor at the Golden Globe, BAFTA, and Critics’ Choice Movie Awards. It received the Golden Lion award during the film’s Venice Film Festival premiere. While plot details remain tightly under wraps, the title itself offers a clue. “Folie à Deux,” a French term that translates to “madness of two” in English, hints at a potentially twisted codependency between Joker and Harley Quinn.

    With a first trailer set to be released on April 10 and a Philippine release date of October 2, anticipation for “Joker: Folie à Deux” is steadily rising. Whether the sequel can match the groundbreaking success of the first film remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: “Joker: Folie à Deux” promises a chilling and potentially operatic exploration of duality and descent, taking audiences deeper into the darkest corners of Gotham City.

    Joker: Folie à Deux will make its way to Philippine cinemas on October 2.

  • “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire”: A Colossal Success with a $194 Million Global Debut

    The cinematic universe trembled as “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” made a gargantuan entrance, amassing an earth-shattering $194 million globally during its opening weekend. This monumental achievement positions the film as the year’s second-largest debut and the third highest-grossing movie of 2024 to date. Fans have spoken, awarding the film a stellar 92% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, a testament to its widespread acclaim and appeal.

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    An Unprecedented Alliance Against a New Foe

    In an unparalleled cinematic event, “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” showcases the iconic Titans, Godzilla and Kong, uniting against the nefarious Skar King—a threat emerging from the depths of Hollow Earth. Directed by the acclaimed Adam Wingard, who returns after the success of “Godzilla vs. Kong,” the film stars a dynamic cast including Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, and Dan Stevens.

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    Critical Acclaim for Action and Visuals

    Critics are raving about the film’s breathtaking action sequences and visual mastery. IGN celebrates Director Wingard’s creative prowess in delivering “the over-the-top monster action fans crave,” complemented by a visually imposing new villain. The Verge lauds the film’s fight scenes for their ingenuity and the expressive nature of the Titans, particularly Kong, whose thoughtfulness adds an emotional depth to the action. Empire extols the film’s visual effects, crediting Weta’s visual-effects work for the beautifully rendered power struggle between Kong and Skar King, which captivates audiences sans dialogue.

    Now Showing Across the Philippines

    “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” has officially premiered in Philippine cinemas, inviting moviegoers to join in the epic journey of these legendary Titans.

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    About “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire”

    Continuing the saga of Legendary Pictures’ cinematic Monsterverse, “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” explores new depths in the lore of Godzilla, Kong, and the mysteries of Skull Island. Directed by Adam Wingard, with a screenplay by a team of renowned writers, the film delves into the mythic battles that define these Titans and their bond with humanity. Starring an ensemble cast, the film promises an unparalleled adventure that explores the origins and destinies of these formidable beings.

    Don’t miss the action-packed thrill ride that is “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,” now playing in theaters nationwide. Join the global conversation with #GodzillaxKong and witness the legendary battle that will decide the fate of the world.

    Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

  • Join Paul Rudd and Carrie Coon for a Chilling “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” Experience!

    There’s something undeniably special about catching a movie on the big screen. The booming sounds, the crystal-clear visuals – it’s an immersive experience that can’t be replicated at home. And according to Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire stars Paul Rudd and Carrie Coon, their latest supernatural adventure is a prime example of a film that deserves the theatrical treatment. It would be very cool to see Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire in a movie theater, says Paul Rudd, who plays Gary Grooberson in the film.

    The Big Screen Advantage

    “Seeing any movie in a movie theater is the way to do it, you can’t beat it,” says Rudd. “There is so much that goes into sound and design and everything. To be able to see it on a massive screen and hear it, you know, you hear things in theaters that you don’t hear at home. It’s an immersive experience. So if you’re going to check it out, go for the best way of checking it out.”

    Coon, who plays the whip-smart Callie Spengler in the film, chimes in to add another benefit of the big screen experience: the special effects. “And you can feel the special effects, so many of our special effects are practical, just like in the original film.”

    “You’ll really be able to tell when it’s blown up in front of you this big,” adds Rudd.    

    Ghosts, Gadgets, and Generations

    But Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire isn’t just about impressive visuals and bone-rattling sound effects. The film also boasts a team-up for the ages, with Rudd and Coon joining forces with the beloved original Ghostbusters – Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, and Annie Potts – was one of the highlights of filming the movie. “It’s very exciting for us as actors to, first of all, put on a flight suit and a proton pack, but to get to do it alongside the original Ghostbusters was really the thrill of a lifetime,” says Rudd. “By the end of the movie, there are a lot of flight suits flying around, ghosts flying around, extremes from proton packs.”

    “Critical mass of ghostbusting,” adds Coon, laughing.

    A Spooktacular Story with Heart

    While the action sequences promise to be epic, Coon assures us that Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire also packs a punch when it comes to scares. “I know our director Gil Kenan set out to make a really scary Ghostbusters sequel, and I think he was successful,” says Coon. “I think the idea of the death chill is really a great opener for the film – the fact that you can be frozen and then shatter into a million tiny pieces – very scary.”

    Gary Grooberson Paul Rudd and Callie Spengler Carrie Coon
    Bill Murray and Paul Rudd in Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire

    But Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is about more than just ghosts and ghouls. At its core, the film is a story about family.

    “Thematically, all the Ghostbusters films seem to revolve around some kind of family, a group of people that need each other, who are stronger when they work together,” says Rudd. “In this one, in particular, we now have kids and parents. Family is central to the story.”  

    Family being central to the story is one of the things Coon loves about the film. “What I love about this one in particular is that the family is still the center of the story, there’s still the question of how outsiders and misfits can save the world, which I think most of us, at some point in our lives feel like we are on the outside of something and I think everybody relates to that,” she says. 

    Ready to Bust Some Ghosts?

    Other than the family theme, Coon shares more reasons to watch Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. “It’s funny, because we have these amazing comedians as well as the original Ghostbusters,” she says. “It’s scary, we have some really terrifying ghosts and also some charming ghosts that the original fans will enjoy but the new fans will also appreciate because you haven’t seen them before. This movie is just a really nice mix of comedy and horror and irreverence just like the original film.”

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    Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire

    In Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, the Spengler family returns to where it all started – the iconic New York City firehouse – to team up with the original Ghostbusters, who’ve developed a top-secret research lab to take busting ghosts to the next level. But when the discovery of an ancient artifact unleashes an evil force, Ghostbusters new and old must join forces to protect their home and save the world from a second Ice Age. Besides Rudd, Coon and the original Ghostbusters, the film also stars Finn Wolfhard, Mckenna Grace, Kumail Nanjiani, Patton Oswalt, Celeste O’Connor and Logan Kim.

    Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire hits theaters on April 10. Distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International Grab your proton packs and get ready for a spooktacular adventure! #Ghostbusters @columbiapicph

    Photo & Video credit: Columbia Pictures