Get ready for a cinematic tempest as the much-anticipated trailer for “Twisters,” the newest venture from the producers of the Jurassic, Bourne, and Indiana Jones series, crashes into Philippine theaters on July 17. Directed by the Oscar-nominated talent Lee Isaac Chung, “Twisters” is poised to electrify audiences with its spellbinding visuals, intense drama, and a star-studded cast led by Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell.
Stellar Cast Faces Nature’s Fury
This high-octane film features a constellation of stars including Golden Globe nominees Edgar-Jones and Anthony Ramos, alongside other luminaries such as David Corenswet, Sasha Lane, and Maura Tierney. Edgar-Jones captivates as Kate Cooper, a seasoned storm chaser drawn back to the thrill of the chase by a revolutionary tracking technology and the call of the wild. Powell’s portrayal of Tyler Owens, a fearless social media sensation, adds a riveting dynamic to this tale of nature versus humanity.
Beyond the Thrill: A Tale of Resilience and Redemption
“Twisters” transcends the typical storm-chasing narrative, delving into themes of courage, technological innovation, and the indomitable human spirit. Building on the legacy of the 1996 hit “Twister,” this modern sequel intertwines the tension of natural disasters with the poignant stories of those who dare to confront them.
Immerse Yourself in the Adventure
Brought to Philippine screens by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, “Twisters” invites audiences to be part of an enthralling journey. Engage with the film online using the hashtag #TwistersMovie and prepare for a cinematic experience that will sweep you off your feet.
Prepare to be whisked away on a magical journey unlike any other as Wicked, the record-breaking Broadway sensation, makes its highly anticipated leap from stage to screen. For over twenty years, audiences have been captivated by the enchanting tale of the witches of Oz, and now, the adventure unfolds on the big screen in a cinematic event that promises to redefine the genre.
Unveiling the Stars: Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo
Step into the Land of Oz and meet our leading ladies: Cynthia Erivo takes on the role of Elphaba, the misunderstood witch with a heart of gold, while Ariana Grande dazzles as Glinda, the charming and privileged sorceress. Watch as their paths intertwine at Shiz University, leading to a friendship that defies all odds and shapes the destiny of Oz.
WICKED, directed by Jon M. Chu | Image Source: Wicked Movie FBWICKED, directed by Jon M. Chu | Image Source: Wicked Movie FB
A Star-Studded Ensemble
But the magic doesn’t stop there! Joining Erivo and Grande is an ensemble cast of talented stars, including Michelle Yeoh as the regal Madame Morrible, Jonathan Bailey as the roguish prince Fiyero, and Ethan Slater as the altruistic Boq. And let’s not forget Marissa Bode, making her feature-film debut as Elphaba’s beloved sister, Nessarose. Plus, pop culture icon Jeff Goldblum takes on the legendary role of the Wizard of Oz himself.
From Stage to Screen: A Cinematic Spectacle
Directed by the visionary Jon M. Chu, known for his work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, Wicked promises to be an immersive and visually stunning experience. With Chu at the helm, audiences can expect a fresh perspective on the beloved story, bringing new depth and dimension to the Land of Oz.
As the first chapter of a two-part journey, Wicked sets the stage for an epic cultural celebration. Join us as we witness the power of friendship, the magic of Oz, and the timeless tale of self-discovery. Mark your calendars for November 27th, when Wicked hits theaters, and stay tuned for the highly anticipated sequel, Wicked: Part Two, coming in 2025.
Follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for all the latest updates on Wicked. Get ready to experience the magic like never before and embark on a journey that will leave you spellbound. Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime!
The moment I stepped out of the cinema after watching ‘Lisa Frankenstein,’ I had to really think about what I had just seen. It is an oddball of a film, a mixed bag of genres – Is it gothic-horror-comedy? Is it a dark, satirical, coming-of-age story? Is it an anti-romance movie with gothic inflections? – with so many quirks both in the script and direction that everything about the movie is distracting. The worst part was not knowing what the film was really about or what it was trying to do.
Set in the late 1980s, Lisa Swallows (Kathryn Newton) is living in an unnamed town with her dad, stepmom (Carla Gugino), and step-sister (Liza Soberano). Lisa is a survivor of a horrible attack where she witnessed her mother get killed by an axe murderer. She’s now an awkward teenager living with her oppressive, vicious stepmother and her cloyingly perfect, cheerful stepsister. She finds solace in spending time alone in an abandoned cemetery and dreaming about dying, lying on the ground side-by-side six feet under beside her favorite marked grave. After a rager where Lisa is drugged, embarrassed, and even sexually assaulted leaves her disoriented and walking home during a freak storm, for some crazy unexplained reason, a ball of lightning strikes the cemetery and brings the corpse of her favorite marked grave alive (Cole Sprouse).
From an awkward, antisocial teenager, the appearance of the undead boy somehow brings Lisa out of her shell. She dresses in Madonna circa 1980s-inspired outfits (with inflections of Stevie Nicks and the hippie-witch aesthetic) and her character does a drastic character change. She becomes more driven by her sexual desires and starts to fight back against the forces that have tried to bring her down – her stepmother and the boy who assaulted her – including being an accomplice to murder.
Because while Lisa is discovering her own strength and voice, the undead boy is slowly putting himself together, taking body parts from his victims so that he can be whole again. Throughout this process, he looks less and less like a zombie, throwing loving glances at the self-absorbed Lisa, and going through the entire movie communicating merely through grunts.
It’s a strange movie because there is no moral center that anchors this film. Yes, the murders that happen are bad and thus paint our protagonist, and unlikely romantic leads, as bad people but never does the film ever treat them as such. They are heroes in the way director Zelda Williams and writer Diablo Cody decide to depict them. The film turns each act of violence as comedic moments but never posits a stance about it. This ambiguity is refreshing but what it does is that it invalidates and undermines any moment of emotional weight that the film may try to achieve later on.
There are some interesting subversive elements within the film like Soberano’s Taffy. What would be a Regina George-esque character in any other film, is actually very sweet and genuine and is unafraid to call out her vicious mother and honestly try to treat Lisa like her sister. It’s a role that Soberano manages to portray with great aplomb. When things start to get hairy and Taffy and Lisa’s own relationship is put through the grinder, there’s a touching scene where Lisa finds a vulnerable moment and opens up to Taffy. It would have been more powerful had the film managed its quirky, ambiguous tone better. It’s hard to take this scene seriously when nothing else in the movie asks for that same treatment.
From the get-go, Williams’ and Cody’s treatment and style of this world is exaggerated and highly stylistic. It almost feels animated. Lines are delivered in such a mannered way that, at first, I thought everyone was overacting. It wasn’t until the movie stretched out that I realized everyone was acting in the same hyper-real way. It was a tonal direction – everything a little over-dramatic – that I saw the directorial control. Unfortunately, much like many aspects of the film, there’s no underlying intention behind any of it. It’s all quirky and unserious about everything – the romance aspect, the horror aspect, the gothic aspect, even the coming-of-age aspect – nothing is fully committed to by the creative team.
By the time the film ends, I felt no real connection to this world, to these characters, or to the experience. ‘Lisa Frankenstein’ felt like a hodgepodge of many great ideas and was shot and produced before any real development was put into the piece. Newton is acting up a storm but without any real context or grounding element to her character, for all her commitment, she ends up just seeming spastic and overdone. On the other hand, Gugino and Soberano find a sweet spot within the weird tone of the movie and somehow fit right in. They work completely in this movie even if the movie never really gets off the ground. I’m usually a huge fan of Diablo Cody’s work. Her previous films like ‘Young Adult’ and ‘Tully’ are just amazing works that get under your skin. Unfortunately, ‘Lisa Frankenstein’ does the opposite. It feels like an experiment in tone and whimsy that didn’t quite succeed.
The cinematic landscape trembles as the first trailer for “Exhuma” breaks through the surface, revealing a world where the dead refuse to rest in peace. Starring a powerhouse ensemble of Choi Min-Shik, Yoo Hae-Jin, Kim Go-Eun, and Lee Do-Hyun, this film promises to immerse audiences in an enthralling horror experience. Scheduled to haunt Philippine cinemas on March 20, “Exhuma” comes to you from Columbia Pictures, the local face of Sony Pictures Releasing International.
The Curse Awakens
In “Exhuma,” a wealthy Los Angeles family faces a terror beyond comprehension, haunted by a relentless supernatural force. In a bid to protect their newborn, they call upon Hwa Rim and Bong Gil, a duo of young and talented shamans. However, what they discover is a malevolent ancestral shadow, a “Grave Calling” that demands an exhumation to set things right.
Journey into the Abyss
Accompanied by Sang Deok, a geomancer of unparalleled skill, and Yeong Geun, a mortician with a deep understanding of the dead, they locate the ancestral grave in a forgotten village in Korea. Little do they know, the soil they disturb hides a darkness that should have remained buried. With the exhumation, they inadvertently unleash an ancient evil, setting the stage for a chilling saga of horror and survival.
A Director’s Vision Meets Stellar Performances
Jang Jae-Hyun‘s direction brings a chilling depth to “Exhuma,” combining the eerie with the profound. The film’s cast, including the likes of Choi Min-Shik, Yoo Hae-Jin, Kim Go-Eun, and Lee Do-Hyun, ensures a riveting performance that blurs the lines between the living and the supernatural. “Exhuma” is set to be a cinematic journey that delves into the darkest corners of ancestral legacies and the horrors they can unleash.
Prepare for the Unveiling
“Exhuma” stands as a testament to the power of horror cinema to explore the depths of human fear and the supernatural. As the trailer peels back the layers of this chilling story, anticipation mounts for its release. Will the shamans be able to contain the evil they’ve freed, or will it consume them all? Find out on March 20, when “Exhuma” descends upon Philippine cinemas.
Embark on a journey of unspeakable terror with “Exhuma,” where ancient evils awaken and darkness reigns. #Exhuma
The Walt Disney Company is thrilled to announce the return of an epic journey with the upcoming release of “Moana 2,” an all-new animated musical adventure, set to enchant audiences in theaters November 2024. Under the visionary leadership of Disney Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger, this sequel to the 2016 Oscar-nominated masterpiece promises to rekindle the magic and wonder that has captivated fans worldwide.
A Journey Renewed: The Saga Continues
“Moana 2” invites viewers to set sail on a grand new voyage alongside beloved characters Moana and Maui, joined by a fresh ensemble of spirited seafarers. With an original call pulling her to the vast and mysterious seas of Oceania, Moana embarks on a daring quest through uncharted waters filled with peril and discovery. This sequel not only expands the horizon of its predecessor’s storytelling but also deepens the lore of its world, promising an adventure that is both familiar and full of new wonders.
Creative Powerhouses Behind the Magic
Directed by the acclaimed Dave Derrick Jr. and featuring a stellar musical lineup including Grammy® winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Grammy nominee Opetaia Foa’i, and three-time Grammy winner Mark Mancina, “Moana 2” is poised to be a symphony of visual and auditory delight. These illustrious talents combine their unique strengths to bring to life a story of courage, friendship, and self-discovery through breathtaking animation and soul-stirring melodies.
First Glimpses and Special Looks
In anticipation of its release, Disney has unveiled a first-look image along with a special preview of “Moana 2,” offering fans a tantalizing sneak peek into the adventures that await. These glimpses into the film showcase the innovative animation and vibrant storytelling that have become the hallmark of Walt Disney Animation Studios.
A Message from Bob Iger
“Moana remains an incredibly popular franchise, and we can’t wait to give you more of Moana and Maui when ‘Moana 2’ comes to theaters this November,” stated Bob Iger.
Join the Voyage
Mark your calendars for November 2024 and prepare to be whisked away on a remarkable journey with “Moana 2.” Disney invites you to be part of this breathtaking adventure that celebrates the spirit of exploration and the unyielding courage of the heart.
“I was always interested in doing swimming on-camera and combining those two great interests for me,” Condon, an accomplished swimmer who swam competitively as a child, says. “I am a good swimmer and I wanted to show my physicality. I love water in movies and I think filming in water is beautiful, so I wanted to be a part of that and learn more about it.”
Another major reason was the genre. “I thought this was a great opportunity for me that I’d never done a horror movie before, and I’ve always wanted a career that would allow me to be a character actress in every kind of genre,” shares Condon, who was nominated for a Best Supporting Actress Academy Award for her role in the comedy The Banshees of Inisherin. Condon was also a recurring character in the critically acclaimed drama Better Call Saul (a Breaking Bad spinoff).
In Night Swim, based on McGuire’s acclaimed 2014 short film of the same name, Ray Waller (Wyatt Russell) is a former major league baseball player forced into early retirement by a degenerative illness. Secretly hoping, against the odds, to return to pro ball, Ray persuades his wife, Eve (Condon), that their new home’s shimmering backyard swimming pool will be fun for the kids (Amélie Hoeferle and Gavin Warren) and provide physical therapy for him. But a dark secret in the home’s past will unleash a malevolent force that will drag the family under, into the depths of inescapable terror.
“On the day I met Kerry, she had been nominated for a Golden Globe for Banshees of Inisherin and swam a mile in the ocean that morning – not a bad day,” director Bryce McGuire says. “She had to do some really demanding underwater work, especially late in the movie, that most people simply would not have been able to do. She’s an extremely tough and physical actor. Something special happens with Kerry every time the camera rolls. She really pushed me and the material, and she’s fantastic in the movie.”
Condon enjoyed working with McGuire as well. “Bryce knew a lot about the genre and that was important to me because I hadn’t done something like this before,” she says. “He had a lot of references and wanted it to be character-based, which appealed to me. A lot was riding on Bryce, and he gave it everything. He was also always open to collaboration, which was great. I have worked with directors in the past that didn’t want to listen to other suggestions, but I believe that the best idea should win, doesn’t matter who gave it and Bryce felt the same.”
DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures are thrilled to announce the return of the world’s most beloved martial arts-loving panda, Po, in “Kung Fu Panda 4,” debuting in Philippine cinemas on March 6. This latest installment promises an epic blend of laughter, heart, and high-kicking action, making it the perfect cinematic experience for the entire family.
The Adventure Continues
The Adventure Continues after captivating audiences worldwide, Po, the Dragon Warrior, voiced by Golden Globe nominee Jack Black, embarks on his most daring adventure yet. Tasked with becoming the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace, Po faces an unexpected challenge: he must find and mentor the next Dragon Warrior. The journey takes a twist when the malevolent sorceress, Chameleon (voiced by Oscar® winner Viola Davis), threatens to unleash chaos in her quest for the Staff of Wisdom.
A Cast of Beloved Characters and New Faces
“Kung Fu Panda 4” sees the return of fan-favorite characters, including Dustin Hoffman as the wise Shifu, James Hong as Po’s loving adoptive father Mr. Ping, and Bryan Cranston as Po’s biological father, Li. Adding to the excitement, Emmy Award nominee Ian McShane reprises his role as the formidable Tai Lung. The film welcomes new talent, including Oscar® winner Ke Huy Quan, voicing the enigmatic Han, leader of the Den of Thieves.
An Unlikely Alliance Forms
In his quest to thwart Chameleon’s plans, Po teams up with Zhen, a cunning corsac fox voiced by Golden Globe winner Awkwafina. Their dynamic, filled with comedic tension and unexpected camaraderie, promises to be a highlight of the film, showcasing that heroes come in the most surprising forms.
Why You Can’t Miss “Kung Fu Panda 4”
“Kung Fu Panda 4” is not just a movie; it’s an experience. With its stellar cast, breathtaking animation, and a story that combines humor with heartwarming moments, it’s set to be a blockbuster hit. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the franchise, this installment is a testament to the enduring appeal of Po and his adventures.
Don’t miss out on the action, laughter, and life lessons that only “Kung Fu Panda 4” can deliver. Mark your calendars for March 6 and prepare to be wowed in a way only Po can manage. #KungFuPanda4Ph
This June, the silence will be louder than ever. Paramount Pictures proudly presents the premiere of the first trailer for “A Quiet Place: Day One,” a riveting prequel that takes audiences back to the terrifying start of the silent saga. Set to captivate moviegoers in the Philippines on June 26, this film is a must-watch for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.
Star-Studded Cast Takes on Silence
Helmed by the talented Michael Sarnoski, “A Quiet Place: Day One” boasts a stellar cast, including Academy Award winner Lupita Nyong’o, “Stranger Things” sensation Joseph Quinn, the multifaceted Alex Wolff, and Academy Award nominee Djimon Hounsou. The ensemble’s dynamic performances promise to bring depth and intensity to the film’s chilling narrative.
A Visionary Team Behind the Scenes
Produced by a powerhouse team comprising Michael Bay, Andrew Form, Brad Fuller, and John Krasinski, the film is a testament to cinematic excellence. With a compelling story crafted by John Krasinski and Michael Sarnoski, the movie is poised to be a landmark addition to the horror genre.
Experience the Beginning of Silence
“A Quiet Place: Day One” takes viewers on a harrowing journey to the day when silence became survival. As the film unfolds, audiences will be drawn into an immersive experience, witnessing the origins of a world plunged into quiet terror. The gripping narrative, combined with breathtaking visuals, ensures an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Mark Your Calendars
Distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures, “A Quiet Place: Day One” is an eagerly anticipated cinematic event. Fans are invited to connect with the film using #AQuietPlaceDayOne and tagging @paramountpicsph on social media platforms.
Prepare for a film where silence is not just golden; it’s survival. Don’t miss the chance to delve into the day the world went quiet. Experience the fear, the suspense, and the thrill of “A Quiet Place: Day One” in Philippine cinemas on June 26.
CREDITS ARE NOT FINAL AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
Get ready for an extraordinary cinematic experience with “Spy x Family Code: White,” set to captivate audiences in PH cinemas starting March 13. This highly-anticipated film, drawing inspiration from Tatsuya Endo‘s popular manga and anime series “Spy x Family,” weaves a unique tale of espionage, family ties, and unexpected comedy.
Loid Forger: The World-Class Spy and Devoted Father
In a remarkable fusion of danger and domestic bliss, Loid Forger, also known as Agent Twilight, embarks on a dual mission. Striving to maintain his disguise as a loving father while excelling in his covert operations, Loid faces a critical challenge – his family’s role in Operation Strix is under threat!
A Culinary Quest with High Stakes
The plot thickens as Loid leverages a school cooking contest at Eden Academy to preserve his undercover status. He and his daughter, Anya, embark on a quest to discover the secret recipe of the school principal’s favorite dish. This culinary journey, however, leads them into a whirlwind of perilous events, with global peace hanging in the balance.
The Forger Family: A Team Like No Other
Joining Loid in this riveting escapade is his wife, Yor Forger, a doting mother by day and the fearsome assassin Thorn Princess by night. Alongside them is their loyal family dog, Bond, adding an extra layer of charm and intrigue to their dynamic. Together, the Forgers race against time, juggling familial duties, covert missions, and a quest for culinary victory.
A Must-Watch for Fans and Newcomers Alike
“Spy x Family Code: White,” presented by Encore Films and distributed by Warner Bros, promises a blend of heart-pounding spy action and heartwarming family moments. Mark your calendars for March 13 and follow the thrilling journey of the Forger family!
Get ready for an adventure like no other with “Spy x Family Code: White” – where espionage, family, and fun collide in an unforgettable cinematic experience!
In the ever-expanding universe of superhero cinema, “Madame Web” is carving out its unique space, promising a tale that’s as grounded as it is grandiose. Led by Dakota Johnson, the film is gearing up to redefine what a superhero movie can be, with a fresh focus on reality and relatability. As the anticipation builds, the cast shares intriguing insights in the newly released featurette, “Grounded in Reality.” “This story is different because it’s really grounded in reality,” says Dakota Johnson in the new featurette for “Madame Web.”
“Madame Web” is not your typical Marvel movie. It marks a groundbreaking moment as the first superhero film in Sony’s Spider-Man Universe with a female lead. The storyline delves into the standalone origin of Cassandra Webb, a Manhattan paramedic who discovers the extraordinary ability to foresee the future. As she grapples with the revelations about her past, Cassandra forms a unique bond with three young women, all destined for powerful futures, provided they survive the challenges of the present.
Dakota Johnson emphasizes, “Madame Web is unlike any other Marvel movie.” This promises an unprecedented Marvel experience, diverging from the familiar superhero tropes.
Sydney Sweeney, who plays Julia Cornwall, adds another layer to the uniqueness of “Madame Web.” She describes it as “it’s more of a suspenseful thriller, which is unique from anything you’ve seen in a superhero movie,” setting it apart from the conventional superhero narrative. This departure from the norm introduces audiences to a fresh and exhilarating take on the genre.
Isabela Merced, portraying Anya Corazón, teases the audience by stating, “It’s got psychologically mind-bending scenarios that you’re just going to be stumped on.” This hints at a film that not only entertains but challenges the audience’s perception of superhero storytelling.
Celeste O’Connor, bringing Mattie Franklin to life, captures the essence of “Madame Web” as she expresses, “It’s genuinely refreshing to see a superhero movie that’s really different.” This sentiment encapsulates the anticipation and excitement surrounding a film that dares to stand out in a crowded genre.
As the countdown begins, prepare to witness a superhero movie that defies expectations. “Madame Web,” distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, is set to grace the big screen on February 14. Connect with the hashtag #MadameWeb and get ready for a cinematic experience that promises to change the superhero game.
