Category: Movies

  • Golden Globe Winner ‘Poor Things’ Premieres in the Philippines – A Journey of Self-Discovery and Unconventional Alliances

    Brace yourself for a cinematic journey that intertwines dark comedy with profound storytelling in Searchlight Pictures’ ‘Poor Things.’ now showing in Philippine cinemas, this film offers an exceptional Valentine’s celebration option, showcasing a quirky and engaging narrative that has captivated audiences and critics alike.

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    Award-Winning Excellence

    ‘Poor Things‘ emerges as a frontrunner this awards season, clinching the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture and Best Performance by a Female Actor, courtesy of the remarkable Emma Stone. The film’s excellence is further underscored by its 11 Academy Award nominations for 2024, spanning categories like Best Picture, Best Director (Yorgos Lanthimos), Best Actress (Emma Stone), Best Supporting Actor (Mark Ruffalo), and Best Adapted Screenplay (Tony McNamara), alongside 11 nods from the British Academy Film Awards.

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    (L to R) Willem Dafoe, Emma Stone, Ramy Youssef and Mark Ruffalo attend the UK Gala Screening of Searchlight Pictures, ‘Poor Things’ at the Barbican London, on December 14, 2023. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)

    Stellar Cast and Creative Adaptation

    Featuring an ensemble cast led by Emma Stone, Mark Ruffalo, Willem Dafoe, and others, ‘Poor Things’ is a testament to storytelling brilliance. Adapted from Alasdair Gray’s novel, the film narrates the life of Bella Baxter – a young woman revived by a scientist, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and liberation in Victorian Glasgow.

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    Emma Stone in POOR THINGS. Photo by Yorgos Lanthimos. Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2023 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

    A Story of Liberation and Discovery

    Bella Baxter’s quest is not just a physical journey across continents but a metaphorical voyage through societal norms and personal identity. Her adventures, set against a backdrop of drama, romance, and grim humor, invite viewers to ponder the essence of humanity, the courage to explore, and the strength to defy conventions.

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    Rami Youssef, Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone on the set of POOR THINGS. Photo by Atsushi Nishijima Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2023 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

    Experience ‘Poor Things’ Today

    Don’t miss the chance to delve into the captivating world of ‘Poor Things.’ Secure your seats at a theater near you and join the conversation online using the hashtag #PoorThingsPH. For more updates, follow Searchlight Pictures on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

    Embrace the opportunity to witness a film that not only challenges conventions but also celebrates the spirit of exploration and personal growth. ‘Poor Things‘ is more than just a movie; it’s an invitation to reflect, laugh, and embark on an unforgettable cinematic adventure.

  • ‘Dune: Part Two’ Joins the 24th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival this Valentine’s weekend

    This Valentine’s weekend, love isn’t the only spectacle that’s taking to the skies. Love is in the air, quite literally, as the 24th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival welcomes the much-anticipated “Dune: Part Two.” Amidst the breathtaking display of hot air balloons, festival-goers are invited to immerse themselves in the epic adventure that awaits on the big screen. The Dune booth promises a unique experience, allowing guests to capture memories with captivating hot air balloon backdrops and take home exclusive “Dune: Part Two” souvenirs.

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    Join in at New Clark City, Tarlac, for the 24th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, where romance and the thrill of adventure merge in an unforgettable aerial celebration. Amidst the vibrant display of hot air balloons, a special treat awaits fans eagerly anticipating the year’s most epic adventure—’Dune: Part Two’.

    For a sneak peek of the adventure that awaits in ‘Dune: Part Two’, catch the trailer and let the anticipation build. With a star-studded cast and the visionary Denis Villeneuve at the helm, the sequel promises to be a cinematic journey like no other.

    Brace yourselves for a mythic tale of love, revenge, and the fate of the universe as Paul Atreides navigates a path paved with conspiracies and choices that will shape the destiny of worlds.

    While “Dune: Part Two” steals the spotlight, the 24th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta offers a plethora of activities for festival-goers. Take to the skies with hot air balloon rides, witness exhilarating drone races, marvel at powered motor paragliding displays, and stay for the enchanting Night Time Drone Exhibition. The festival kicks off on Friday, February 16, and promises a weekend filled with excitement until February 18.

    For in-depth information about the “Dune: Part Two” booth and exclusive festival highlights, visit the official Warner Bros. Philippines Facebook page: Warner Bros. Philippines. To plan your festival experience and stay updated on the 24th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, head to Balloon Fiesta PH.

    ASIAN AIR SAFARI SOUVENIR POST

    About ‘Dune: Part Two’

    Dune: Part Two will explore the mythic journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen while on a warpath of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, he endeavors to prevent a terrible future only he can foresee. 

    Denis Villeneuve directed from a screenplay he co-wrote with Jon Spaihts based on Frank Herbert’s novel. The film is produced by Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Villeneuve, Tanya Lapointe and Patrick McCormick. The executive producers are Josh Grode, Herbert W. Gains, Jon Spaihts, Thomas Tull, Brian Herbert, Byron Merritt, Kim Herbert, with Kevin J. Anderson serving as creative consultant. Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer is again on hand to create the score.

    The film stars Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Dave Bautista, Christopher Walken, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Léa Seydoux, with Stellan Skarsgård, with Charlotte Rampling, and Javier Bardem.

    The Countdown Begins

    As February 28 draws near, the excitement for Dune: Part Two reaches fever pitch. Join us in celebrating love, adventure, and cinema at the Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta this Valentine’s weekend. Let your hearts soar and your imaginations take flight in anticipation of a film that promises to be as boundless as the skies above.

    As the excitement builds, join the online conversation and share your anticipation for “Dune: Part Two.” Use the hashtag #DunePartTwo to connect with fellow enthusiasts, share your festival experiences, and count down the days until the epic continuation of the Dune saga.

    Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

  • MOVIE REVIEW: ‘Poor Things’ reimagines the coming-of-age narrative through an absurdist lens

    I’m a huge fan of the works of Yorgos Lanthimos. From ‘The Lobster’ and ‘Killing of a Sacred Deer’ to ‘The Favourite,’ I’ve found that his style of highly formalistic realities playing out a sort of morality play that critiques contemporary human society has always been executed with such a delightful meticulousness of craft. Not only are the worlds that he creates out of the box and off-kilter but the way by which he presents them amplifies the absurdity of human life. His use of crazy camera angles and distorted visuals (like the use of the fisheye lens in ‘The Favourite’) and the unsettling musical score that he favours; his works have always been equal parts hilarious and disturbing.

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    Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone on the set of POOR THINGS. Photo by Atsushi Nishijima. Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2023 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

    Of the three works that he’s done that I’ve seen (and I heard his earlier, non-English works are even better), they have always been mired in irony and expressed a cynical view of the world. So, it’s surprising that his latest outing, ‘Poor Things’ ends somewhat hopeful, even joyful and it’s a shift that feels more aligned to his irreverent sense of humor because it still feels like the other shoe is about to drop. And unlike his previous films, this one ends right before it does.

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    Emma Stone in POOR THINGS. Photo by Atsushi Nishijima. Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2023 20th Century Studios All Rights Reserved.

    ‘Poor Things’ centers around the growth of Bella (Emma Stone). We are introduced to her as a woman who had “hurt her head” and is now learning everything all over again like that of a child. While the setting implies a Victorian-era London, Lanthimos and screenwriter Tony McNamara opt for a dreamy, lo-fi steam punk world. It has shades of George Melies with a bit of the Spanish architect and painter Gaudi splashed into the aesthetic design. Bella is in the care of a brilliant surgeon Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe), a master of anatomy and surgery, who conducts experiments that is akin to Dr. Moreau. His home is a menagerie of strange animal experiments. A duck with a dog’s body. A chicken with a pig’s head. And then there’s Bella, a grown woman acting like a child.

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    Willem Dafoe in POOR THINGS. Photo by Atsushi Nishijima Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2023 20th Century Studios All Rights Reserved.

    When Godwin asks one of his students, Max McCandles (Ramy Youssef) to watch over Bella and record her growth, he questions her origins but cannot help but find her attractive. He falls for her and in the urgings of the paternal Godwin, Max proposes marriage to Bella, who at this point is old enough to understand a portion of what it means and accepts.

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    Ramy Youssef and Willem Dafoe in POOR THINGS. Photo by Yorgos Lanthimos. Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures.© 2023 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

    Except Bella still wants to know more about the world, so seduced by a sly lawyer, Duncan Wedderburn (Mark Ruffalo), Bella leaves home to explore the world outside the safe yet imprisoning walls of Godwin Baxter’s home.

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    Mark Ruffalo in POOR THINGS. Photo by Yorgos Lanthimos. Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2023 20th Century Studios All Rights Reserved.

    What presents itself as either a strange gothic romance or a meditation on the morality and cruelty of scientific experiments conducted in the post-period of enlightenment, the movie really is a coming-of-age story of a woman who wants to understand the world. Bella’s unique circumstance allows her to see the world as an innocent, with pure intentions and is grasping for experiences that will help her wrestle with all the emotions that come with the knowledge about the world itself. Her mental growth is quick and fast, and in a few months, she has the mind of an intelligent young teen (though the sentence structure of a verbose child) but, having the body of a grown woman, she discovers the joy and power of sex and enjoys it.

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    Emma Stone in POOR THINGS. Photo by Yorgos Lanthimos, Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2024 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

    Sex, then, becomes the fulcrum of her understanding of power and joy. Bella questions the world around her, including polite society, which – when taken from her point-of-view – is suspect about the true nature of the power dynamics involved. Unintentionally, to understand the world, she has to face what it means to be a woman and what society demands from her. With her child-like point-of-view, she feels no shame nor guilt of which society bears upon her. And because this, she is so much stronger than everyone in the world around her.

    Everyone in this film is incredible, Willem Dafoe and Mark Ruffalo are doing their best work – and these are two actors who always do amazing work – but here, they synch into Lanthimos’ sense of absurdity and they fit right in. The mannered performances are brought in with equal levels of absurdity but tempered with the reason that they don’t feel like they are hamming it up.

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    Emma Stone in Poor Things. Photo Courtesy of Searchight Pictures.© 2023 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

    But through and through, this is Emma Stone’s movie. It is all grounded on her and her portrayal of Bella. She is absolutely committed to this role and is unafraid of being foolish and vulnerable. She is acting with every inch of her body, creating a character that is rapidly growing before our eyes. From the times of Bella with the mindset of an infant to her fully grown and in full realization of who she is and what the world is capable of, you can see the shifts and nuances of the character’s transformation. If she wins her second Oscar for this role, it would be so deserved.

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    Emma Stone and Mark Ruffalo on the set of POOR THINGS. Photo by Atsushi Nishijima. Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2023 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

    Lanthimos’ incredible filmmaking is so perfectly matched for this story. The pacing, the world building, the design, and the way he captures it on camera. After the prologue, he tells the story first in black-and-white to somehow mimic Bella’s view of the world – without colour, without understanding. But as she gets older, the colours start to come in. I was trying to take notice of when it would change and shift (I knew the film would be in color because of the trailers) but I was so engrossed in Emma Stone’s performance and the hilariousness of the screenplay that I totally missed the shift the film takes to colour. And when it does, the movie just comes completely alive as it coincides directly with Balla’s on growing perspective over the world.

    It’s definitely a philosophical film as much as it is the ultimate coming-of-age story that I can think of. The incredible score by Jerskin Fendrix, with its discordant melodies highlight the imbalance of power and the ways by which Bella deals with the people around her. But the music finds moments of harmony, especially at its surprising end.

    ‘Poor Things’ is a complete assault on the senses and this aesthetic is wonderfully maintained all throughout its 142-minute running time. It’s an exquisite meditation on the world and manages to highlight the discrepancy of power between the sexes.

    My Rating:

    stars 5 0


    Poor Things is now showing. Check screening times and buy tickets here.

  • New Movies This Week: ‘Madame Web,’ ‘Poor Things,’ and more!

    It’s another exciting week at the movies with a diverse lineup of films! Brace yourself for the spine-chilling horrors of “Double Blind,” the laughter-inducing mishaps in “I Am Not Big Bird,” and the gripping mysteries of “Madame Web.” Join us as we explore the diverse worlds brought to life by “Destino Pasional,” the whirlwind adventures of “Poor Things,” the heart-stopping thrills of “Slay Zone,” and and the terror unleashed in “The Jack in the Box Rises.” From captivating tales of love to heart-pounding suspense, this week’s releases promise an unparalleled cinematic experience.

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

    New Movies February 14 2024

    Double Blind

    2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 30 mins
    HORROR, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
    BUY TICKETS

    In this spine-chilling blend of horror and science fiction, “Double Blind” plunges viewers into a nightmarish world where sleep equals death. After an experimental drug trial takes a sinister turn, the test subjects find themselves fighting for survival in a race against time. Trapped in an isolated facility, panic grips them as they struggle to stay awake and escape the clutches of impending doom.

    I Am Not Big Bird

    2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 36 mins
    COMEDY
    BUY TICKETS

    Prepare for hilarity and hijinks in “I Am Not Big Bird,” where a holiday getaway takes an unexpected turn. Follow the misadventures of a 30-something virgin as he embarks on a trip to Thailand with friends, only to be mistaken for a famous Thai porn star. With a quirky chain of events unfolding, laughter ensues as our protagonist navigates through a series of comical misunderstandings.

    Madame Web

    2024 • PG • 1 hr 56 mins
    ACTION, ADVENTURE, SCIENCE FICTION
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    In the action-packed adventure “Madame Web,” paramedic Cassandra Webb finds herself thrust into a world of intrigue and danger. Forced to confront secrets from her past, she forms an unlikely bond with three young women destined for greatness. As they navigate through a treacherous present, the stakes are high, and survival is far from guaranteed.

    Destino Pasional

    2024 • PG • 1 hr 58 mins
    DRAMA, ROMANCE
    BUY TICKETS

    Experience the bittersweet romance of “Destino Pasional,” where fate brings together two strangers on a turbulent journey. Mahalia, a former dancer turned critic, crosses paths with Norberto, a biologist with a heartbreaking secret. As they embark on a passionate love affair against the backdrop of an unexpected flight delay, their lives intertwine in a poignant tale of love and loss.

    Poor Things

    2024 • R-16 • 2 hrs 21 mins
    COMEDY, ROMANCE, SCIENCE FICTION
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    Join the whirlwind adventure of “Poor Things,” where a young woman defies societal norms and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Revived by a scientist and accompanied by a debauched lawyer, she sets out to challenge the prejudices of her time. With a steadfast resolve for equality and liberation, she embraces her newfound freedom in a tale that’s both heartwarming and empowering.

    Slay Zone

    2024 • PG • 1 hr 52 mins
    THRILLER
    BUY TICKETS

    Step into the thrilling world of “Slay Zone,” where a rural community is plunged into chaos by a series of mysterious killings. Led by Police Captain Corazon Fernandez and V, a renowned vlogger and model, the race to uncover the truth becomes a matter of life and death. With danger lurking around every corner, they must navigate through a web of secrets to uncover the sinister truth.

    The Jack in the Box Rises

    2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 31 mins
    HORROR, MYSTERY
    BUY TICKETS

    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:

    Mean Girls

    2024 • PG • 1 hr 52 mins
    COMEDY
    BUY TICKETS

    Lisa Frankenstein

    2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 41 mins
    COMEDY, HORROR, ROMANCE
    BUY TICKETS

    Ikaw Pa Rin Ang Pipiliin Ko

    2024 • PG • 1 hr 40 mins
    MUSIC, ROMANCE
    BUY TICKETS

    https://youtu.be/HPDtOPAJY4o?si=SDlVJnQq2ncWj5s5

    No Way Up

    2024 • PG • 1 hrs 30 mins
    ACTION, THRILLER
    BUY TICKETS

    Argylle

    2023 • PG • 2 hrs 15 mins
    ACTION, COMEDY, CRIME
    BUY TICKETS

    My Sassy Girl

    2023 • PG • 1 hr 57 mins
    COMEDY, DRAMA, ROMANCE
    BUY TICKETS

    Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom

    2023 • PG • 2 hrs 4 mins
    ACTION, ADVENTURE, FANTASY
    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. 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!

  • Director Zelda Williams hopes “Lisa Frankenstein” makes viewers feel more comfortable and seen in their weirdness, now in cinemas.

    When director Zelda Williams and her team first screened Lisa Frankenstein, the host asked the focus group at the end what they thought the main message of the movie was. 

    Zelda Williams and Diablo Cody

    “There was of course mention of flying body parts,” shares Williams. “But one of them, who seemed to be around 18, raised their hand and confidently answered, ‘that you can be a completely unhinged weirdo and still deserve to be loved!’ This movie won’t be for everyone, but if anyone leaves it feeling THAT way, then in my eyes, I’ve more than done my job!”

    In Lisa Frankenstein, it’s 1989 and Lisa Swallows (Kathryn Newton), an awkward 17-year-old, is trying to adjust to a new school and a new life after her mother’s death and her father’s hasty remarriage. Despite the unwavering support offered by her plucky cheerleader step sister Taffy (Liza Soberano – who has earned local and international praise, including from Hollywood director Joe Russo, for her performance!), Lisa only finds solace in the abandoned cemetery near her house, where she tends to the grave of a young man who died in 1837 – and whose corpse she unwittingly reanimates (Cole Sprouse). Feeling obligated to help the poor soul regain his humanity, Lisa embarks on a quest to breathe new life into her long-dead new companion. All she needs to succeed are some freshly harvested body parts and Taffy’s broken tanning bed.

    Cinematographer Paula Huidobro and director Zelda Williams

    The film, inspired by 1935’s Bride of Frankenstein and ’80s favorites including Weird Science, was written by Academy Award winner Diablo Cody (Juno, Jennifer’s Body). Cody found an ideal collaborator in Williams, an actress turned filmmaker known for her voice-over work on such projects as Nickelodeon’s animated series The Legend of Korra and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Williams also starred in Freeform’s anthology series Dead of Summer and enjoyed recurring roles on the hit series Teen Wolf, before writing and directing her first short film, 2018’s Shrimp. Lisa Frankenstein is the feature film directorial debut of Williams, daughter of the late Robin Williams and part-Filipina Marsha Garces.  

    Cody was ceaselessly impressed by the atmosphere Williams fostered on set. “Zelda ran one of the most warm, welcoming and efficient sets I’ve ever seen,” says Cody. “She also grew up in the industry, so instead of seeing the usual first-film jitters, I saw a director calmly and smoothly operating inside her comfort zone. She was an ally to the actors, and to the script as well.” 

    Adds Kathryn Newton, who plays Lisa: “The world in the script is so heightened, but Zelda managed to inject so much heart and love into it. She’s really in the moment, thinking about every little detail. Zelda’s fun and cool and I trust her, and that’s really all you want in a director – someone you trust. She always had my back.”

    In making a story that is a darkly funny, bizarrely romantic and gleefully gory celebration of love, Williams says she hopes to remind audiences to embrace their own eccentricities. In a world hellbent on telling people to be curated, perfect and small, it’s important to remember that sometimes, bigger and wilder is just better. “I would really love them to leave feeling maybe a bit more comfortable in their weirdness, a bit more seen in whatever way they thought made them too odd to be lovable,” says the director.

    This Valentine’s Day, watch the funniest, goriest undead horror romance you’ll see all year. Lisa Frankenstein, distributed by Universal Pictures International, is now showing in cinemas. #LisaFrankensteinPH

    Follow Universal Pictures Ph (FB) and universalpicturesph (IG) for the latest updates on Lisa Frankenstein.

  • Watch Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides become a true Fremen as he attempts to ride a sandworm in this “Dune: Part Two” sneak peek.

    The scale becomes even more epic as Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two picks up where 2021’s Dune left off. New characters sweep into the vast world, as the adventure sets off with even more stunning visuals and thrilling action sequences.

    Dune: Part Two continues the story of Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet), now away from his home and propelled by fate into an intergalactic power struggle. As he journeys with the Fremen people, he tries to gain their confidence with the support of Chani (Zendaya) and Stilgar (Javier Bardem). To prepare for their continuous revolt against the tyrannical Harkonnens, and to truly be a part of the Fremen, Paul takes one of their most dangerous trials. 

    The Harkonnens carry on pillaging Arrakis for spice, which the Fremen have been violently opposing. As tensions escalate and the Harkonnens gather forces, the Baron (Stellan Skarsgård) lets one of his more vicious and bloodthirsty nephews, Feyd-Rautha (Austin Butler) take part in the war. Them and the other royal families serve the Emperor (Christopher Walken), previously unseen in 2021’s Dune. In Dune: Part Two we are taken to his realm, and that of his daughter, Princess Irulan (Florence Pugh). 

    The themes of the film are both timeless and timely, as love and loyalty, humanity versus nature, take center stage in Dune: Part Two. On one side are the Fremen who have adapted to their native land of the desert, surviving by being one with it and learning to live alongside its harsh nature. On the other lie the Harkonnens who’ve epitomized corruption and greed. Paul Atreides is at the center of the struggle, battling the people that eradicated his clan while fighting against the destiny that was handed to him.

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    About “Dune: Part Two”

    “Dune: Part Two” will explore the mythic journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen while on a warpath of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, he endeavors to prevent a terrible future only he can foresee. 

    Denis Villeneuve directed from a screenplay he co-wrote with Jon Spaihts based on Frank Herbert’s novel. The film is produced by Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Villeneuve, Tanya Lapointe and Patrick McCormick. The executive producers are Josh Grode, Herbert W. Gains, Jon Spaihts, Thomas Tull, Brian Herbert, Byron Merritt, Kim Herbert, with Kevin J. Anderson serving as creative consultant. Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer is again on hand to create the score.

    The film stars Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Dave Bautista, Christopher Walken, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Léa Seydoux, with Stellan Skarsgård, with Charlotte Rampling, and Javier Bardem.

    In cinemas February 28, 2024, “Dune: Part Two” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

    Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #DunePartTwo

    Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

  • ‘Madame Web’: A Groundbreaking Superhero Film by SJ Clarkson Opens This Valentine’s Day

    Title: “Madame Web: A Groundbreaking Superhero Film by SJ Clarkson Opens This Valentine’s Day”

    In an industry saturated with physically dominant superheroes, director SJ Clarkson‘s latest project, “Madame Web,” emerges as a breath of fresh air. With its release set for Valentine’s Day, this Sony’s Spider-Man Universe film is poised to redefine superhero narratives.

    A Unique Heroine Emerges

    Clarkson, known for her dynamic portrayal of female characters, introduces audiences to Cassandra “Cassie” Webb (Dakota Johnson), a character whose strength lies not in her physical capabilities but in the profound power of her mind. Cassie’s ability to interlink the destinies of those around her sets her apart, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to be powerful. “The power of your mind has infinite potential,” a pivotal line from the movie, encapsulates the essence of Madame Web’s journey.

    Visionary Direction

    Clarkson’s directorial prowess shines as she explores the psychological depths of Madame Web’s powers. The film’s innovative visual style aims to mirror the fragmented, non-linear nature of memory and foresight, akin to “the blink of an eye.” This approach not only enhances the storytelling but also immerses the audience in Cassie’s complex world.

    Celeste O Connor Dakota Johnson Isabela Merced and Sydney Sweeney in Madame Web

    Empowerment and Unity

    At its core, “Madame Web“ champions the theme of empowerment. Through Cassie’s story and her interactions with characters played by Sydney Sweeney, Isabela Merced, and Celeste O’Connor, the film explores the strength found in self-discovery and unity. Dakota Johnson praises the film for highlighting ordinary individuals as heroes, celebrating the messiness, complexity, and power of real-life women.

    About “Madame Web“

    This thrilling origin story of one of Marvel’s most intriguing heroines takes audiences on a suspenseful journey with Cassandra Webb, a paramedic with precognitive abilities. Directed by SJ Clarkson, the film boasts a talented ensemble, including Dakota Johnson, Sydney Sweeney, and Isabela Merced, and promises to deliver a unique superhero experience.

    Dakota Johnson SJ Clarkson at the Madame Web photocall in London on January 31

    Join the Revolution

    “Madame Web” invites viewers to experience a new kind of superhero film that emphasizes the power of the mind and the importance of female empowerment. Don’t miss this groundbreaking film, distributed by Columbia Pictures in the Philippines, as it opens in cinemas on February 14. Join the conversation with #MadameWeb and witness the dawn of a new era in superhero cinema.

    Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

  • Movie Review: The new ‘Mean Girls’ musical is kinda fetch

    I was expecting to hate the new ‘Mean Girls’ movie. I’m a huge fan of the original 2004 Mark Waters-directed film and feel that it’s a perfect movie on its own. It was a cultural phenomenon and the way the movie presented the idea of the high school queen bee archetype was the pattern for later usage of that trope, like that in ‘Gossip Girl.’ It opened important discussions about the way teenage girls see themselves and each other and how they tear each other down. Many of the lines in the film are still used today in memes and gifs and, on social media, October 3 is dubbed as ‘Mean Girls Day’ due to a line in the film that mentions the date.

    When I saw the trailer for the film adaptation of the Broadway musical based on the 2004 film, I had to ask why. Why make another movie when the original movie was already perfect as it was? Especially when the whole idea of a nasty, mean queen bee is such an outdated concept in 2024? This is the age of the internet and cancel culture. People like Regina George would be canceled in a heartbeat. How would this version address this shift in the generational mindset? And the trailer made it feel like it was exactly the same movie with some jokes just swapped for a more modern take but was essentially the same.

    Mean Girls

    So, I was sitting in my seat, as the movie began, and when the first song opened, an intro presented like an IG or FB reel or Tiktok with Janis and Damian (Auli’i Cravalho and Jaquel Spivey, respectively) singing a song with the tone of a narrator, I immediately put my walls up and resisted. Despite the excellent vocals of Cravalho and Spivey, I found fault within the song. The two were playing their own instruments in a garage but the moment the garage doors open and it’s the wide-open savannah of Africa and we are introduced to Angourie Rice as Cady Heron, I was turned upside down.

    It was an incredible scene transition that would be carried out throughout the whole film. Rice sings Cady’s first song about her life in Kenya and the song was catchy and allowed us into the interior world of our protagonist. One quick, clever transition later and she’s in high school back in the United States and experiencing her first day.

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    As much as I was resisting it, this musical version of ‘Mean Girls’ found a way through my walls. The full-on musical numbers help break reality and create a world for the film that is entirely of its own. It allows for the presence of a popular girl in school like Regina George to exist because the movie is not set in any sort of reflection of real life. It brought the story to the level of a fable or a modern fairy tale and so it created a space for the less realistic parts to exist.

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    So, when Renee Rapp makes her entrance as Regina George, the effect is actually quite staggering. Rapp is a powerful presence with a strong, powerful voice that demands attention. Rapp is not your typical svelte or skinny blonde girl. She’s a strongly built, hot young girl with the vocal chops of a diva. She has incredible confidence mixed with deadly charisma. Rachel McAdams, who originated the role in 2004, was perfect for that era’s imagination of the American dream girl but Renee Rapp is the rightful evolution of it. And boy can she sing!

    Everything within this version of ‘Mean Girls’ pretty much follows the same narrative beats as the original. What is different is now that instead of Cady Heron’s narration, the voice-over is now song numbers and each girl gets a chance to reflect on their interior worlds. While Karen (played by Avantika) gets a humorous dance song about how young women can dress sexy during Halloween (as a reflection on the misplaced needs of young teen girls to be thought of as hot), it is Gretchen Wiener’s (Bebe Wood) song about her own insecurities that allows her to let Regina step all over her add something new and layered to the character.

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    Certain jokes remain the same – fetch is still there, and so is “she doesn’t even go here” – though others have been replaced with new jokes; some that work and some that don’t but what is surprising is that the core message of ‘Mean Girls’ has not changed over the years, but it still feels timely and important until now. The usage of the elements of social media and the internet somehow fits perfectly into the story and manages to highlight the overturning of Regina George’s popularity in favor of Cady and this is done really well with this new intrusion. It manages to showcase how shallow and petty all the noise in social media can be. One day they are praising Regina and the next, they are making fun of her and praising Cady.

    This new ‘Mean Girls’ doesn’t quite top the original. It’s hard to do. What it does, though, is that it takes everything good about the first and dresses it up in modern sensibilities and makes it sing and dance and have really good scene transitions. With the vocal prowess of Cravalho and Rapp pushing it along for good measure, the film manages to justify its production and gives us a pretty fun time in the cinema in the process.

    My Rating:

    stars 3 5


    Mean Girls is now showing. Check screening times and buy tickets here.

  • Explore the Future: ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ Trailer Unveiled for May 2024 Release

    20th Century Studios proudly unveils the trailer for its latest cinematic marvel, “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.” This action-adventure spectacle introduces audiences to a thrilling new chapter of the globally celebrated franchise. Set for a grand release in May 2024, the film is poised to captivate viewers on IMAX®, Dolby Cinema®, 4DX, and premium screens across the globe, promising an extraordinary cinematic experience.

    A Glimpse into the Kingdom

    Helmed by the visionary Wes Ball, celebrated for his work on the “Maze Runner” trilogy, “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is set several generations after the legendary reign of Caesar. In this new era, apes have risen as the dominant species, coexisting in harmony, while humans are relegated to the fringes of this new society. The film centers on a young ape embarking on a daunting quest that challenges his convictions and shapes the destiny of both species.

    Star-Studded Ensemble

    The film features a stellar cast, including Owen Teague (“IT”), Freya Allan (“The Witcher”), Kevin Durand (“Locke & Key”), Peter Macon (“Shameless”), and William H. Macy (“Fargo”), who bring this epic narrative to life. The screenplay, penned by the talented Josh Friedman (“War of the Worlds”), Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver (“Avatar: The Way of Water”), and Patrick Aison (“Prey”), draws on characters conceived by Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver.

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    A Collaborative Masterpiece

    With Wes Ball at the helm, alongside producers Joe Hartwick, Jr., Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver, and Jason Reed, and executive producers Peter Chernin and Jenno Topping, this film is set to push the boundaries of storytelling and visual innovation.

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    “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is more than a film; it’s an exploration of imagination and adventure. Circle May 2024 on your calendars and prepare to be whisked away to a realm where the fate of civilization teeters on the edge.

  • Marvel Studios Unveils Explosive First Trailer for ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’: A Spectacular Return to Action

    In a groundbreaking moment for superhero cinema, Marvel Studios has just dropped the eagerly awaited first trailer for “Deadpool & Wolverine“, marking a thrilling return for the iconic “Merc with a Mouth” and the indomitable Wolverine. Directed by Shawn Levy, this film promises to blend action, humor, and heart in a way only Marvel can.

    Star-Studded Cast and Crew

    The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast led by Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, alongside Emma Corrin, Morena Baccarin, Rob Delaney, Leslie Uggams, Karan Soni, and Matthew Macfadyen. Behind the scenes, the film is a product of a collaborative effort, produced by Kevin Feige, Ryan Reynolds, Shawn Levy, and Lauren Shuler Donner, with a host of executive producers ensuring this blockbuster hits all the right notes.

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    A Creative Coalition

    The screenplay, co-written by Ryan Reynolds, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, Zeb Wells, and Shawn Levy, is a testament to Marvel’s commitment to delivering stories that resonate with audiences while pushing the boundaries of superhero storytelling.

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    Exclusive Cinematic Experience

    “Deadpool & Wolverine” is set to dazzle audiences exclusively in theaters this July, including IMAX and premium screens nationwide. This cinematic experience promises to be a visual feast, immersing fans in the unparalleled spectacle of Marvel’s universe.

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    Share the Excitement

    Marvel Studios invites fans and cinephiles alike to dive into the action-packed trailer, explore the vibrant poster, and browse through the captivating trailer stills. “Deadpool & Wolverine” is not just a movie; it’s an event, promising an unforgettable adventure that only Marvel can deliver.

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    Stay tuned and mark your calendars for July 2024, as “Deadpool & Wolverine” prepares to take the summer by storm, only in cinemas.