There’s something poetic and lyrical about the way ‘Past Lives’ unfolds as a film. Writer and director Celine Song shows off her theatrical background by weaving a story that is so elegantly paced and designed that it could almost be a play, but the first-time director uses the camera to really get into the intricacies of these characters’ feelings and inner worlds that pushes against its theatrical mode and into the realm of cinema. It’s a very delicate three-person story that spans for 24 years and teases upon hundreds of past lives before.
The narrative follows the basic three-act structure and does it with such precision. It shows us only exactly what we need, and it never dawdles. It’s a tight story at 106 minutes. We begin with Na Young and Hae Sung, two classmates living in Seoul. They are best friends who compete over who gets the highest grades in class but also confides with each other and play all the time. They are undeniably each other’s first love but when Na Young’s family immigrates to Canada, the two must say goodbye. Twelve years later, the two reconnect. Na Young, who has changed her name to Nora is now working towards being a writer while Hae Sung just finished military service and is back in school. They communicate online, adjusting to the time differences and the connection is as strong as ever (though the internet connection isn’t always so). Life happens and they have to go their separate ways again until another twelve years has passed and this time everything has changed. Nora is now married to Arthur (as shown in the trailer) and is living in New York but Hae Sung is finally coming to visit and all the loose ends of their relationship will be tugged to test its limits.
‘Past Lives’ thrives in the personal and intimate. It has no sweeping statements about love or the immigrant life, which is a strong factor that plays out in Nora’s relationships with these two men: the man she knew when she was living in another country and the man she is now married to in her new home. The dialogue can sometimes play out like a piece for theater except that the actors – Greta Lee, Teo Yoo, and John Magaro – throw them out with such ease that it is believable. Their delivery has so much spontaneity that it feels real, even if it is so eloquent and articulate.
Photo credit: Jon Pack
And while the film is really just moments of talking, director Celine Song is very aware of how to use space and the camera to place these characters in the midst of their milieu. Song is so confident as to just let a quiet scene unfold like when Nora arrives at a writer’s residency in Montauk, and she explores the empty house she’ll be writing in. The textures of the production design play off with the lighting, the music, and even Greta Lee’s presence. Nothing majors is happening and yet it’s so importantly contextually for where Nora is at that point of her life – when she is finding space away from Hae Sung and the arrival of Arthur into her life.
As a director, Celine Song ensures the camera captures all the magnificent work her actors are doing. As a writer, she gives them an amazing amount of thoughts to articulate that never quite says what they really want to say in the first two acts. Much like real life, these characters are saying something but are desperately wanting to say something else. The subtext hangs heavy in the air but you can see it in the way each actor physicalizes their character’s inner world. It’s only in the final act that things that need to be said are finally let loose and it happens in the most powerfully staged scene possible – Nora, Arthur, and Hae Sung are seated at a bar and the two childhood friends can be honest with each other in Korean while the American husband can only wonder – and then, the big finale of the film, its one that is done in absolute silence but the emotions hang heavy in the air and in the stellar portrayal of Greta Lee.
‘Past Lives’ is a quiet, intimate, and very personal film. But it’s the way by which Celine Song treats the material that makes it feel big and universal. Honestly? It’s the kind of movies that I miss seeing in the cinema. A quiet, unimposing film that manages to find breadth and grandness in the most private of desires and dreams of individuals. There is a poetic elegance to ‘Past Lives’ that is amplified by an incredible musical score Christopher Bear and Daniel Rossen and by the impeccable acting of Greta Lee, John Magaro, and Teo Yoo. I’d love for the three to get nominations in every award-giving body with Celine Song getting a nod, at the very least for screenwriting.
My Rating:
PAST LIVES opens on August 30. Check the screening times and buy your tickets here!
From August 23 to 29, Ayala Malls Cinemas, in collaboration with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and steered by Chairman Tirso Cruz III, will be offering a special curation of globally renowned films through their A-List Series. This partnership seeks to promote a diverse cinematic experience for the Philippine audience.
Aiming to deliver a rich cinematic experience, Ayala Malls Cinemas ensures that these world-renowned films are easily accessible to enthusiasts across the country. The series boasts award-winning gems from the Cannes Film Festival, BAFTA Awards, Oscars, and the Asia Pacific Screen Awards.
AFTERSUN, a BAFTA winner for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer and Director (Charlotte Wells) stars Paul Mescal whose work in the film earned him a nomination at this year’s Oscars while his co-star Frankie Corio received glowing reviews for her breakout role. Aftersun takes us through the lens of memories between father and daughter, Calum and Sophie. At a fading vacation resort, 11-year-old Sophie treasures rare time together with her loving and idealistic father, Calum (Paul Mescal). As the world of adolescence creeps into view, beyond her eye, Calum struggles under the weight of life outside of fatherhood. Twenty years later, Sophie’s tender recollections of their last holiday become a powerful and heartrending portrait of their relationshipas she tries to reconcile with the father she knew and with the man she didn’t, in director Charlotte Wells’ superb and searingly emotional debut film.
CLOSE is the winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival (2022).Lukas Dhont’s second film is an emotionally transformative and unforgettable portrait of the intersection of friendship and love, identity and independence, and heartbreak and healing where Leo (Eden Dambrine) and Remi (Gustav De Waele) are two thirteen-year-old best friends, whose seemingly unbreakable bond is suddenly, tragically torn apart.
CORSAGE is a fictional account of one year in the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria directed by Marie Kreutzer. On Christmas Eve 1877, Elisabeth (played by Vicky Krieps who also won the Best Performance in the 2022 Cannes Film Festival), once idolized for her beauty, then when she turns 40 and is officially deemed an old woman, she starts trying to maintain her public image.
RETURN TO SEOUL introduces newcomer Park Ji-Min who won 2022’s Best New Performance at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards along with Davy Chou who also bagged the Best Director award. The movie takes us along Freddie’s (Park) impulsive travel decision to visit friends at South Korea. Freddie returns to South Korea, where she was born, for the first timebefore being adopted and raised in France. She suddenly finds herself embarking on an unexpected journey in a country she knows so little about, taking her life in new and unexpected directions. The film also stars favorite K-drama actors Oh Kwang-rok (Healer) and Kim Sun-Young (Reply 1988).
Committed to its vision of celebrating arts and culture, Ayala Malls continues to elevate the movie-watching experience for its patrons. With exclusive offerings such as these, film aficionados can anticipate many more cinematic masterpieces that you can only look forward to at Ayala Malls Cinemas.
Book your tickets now at any of your preferred Ayala Malls Cinemas across the nation: Manila Bay Cinema, Greenbelt 3, Trinoma, Solenad, Capitol Central, Central Bloc, Centrio Cinema, Abreeza and Harbor Point. With tickets priced at P250 in Metro Manila and P200 in provinces, this cinematic fest is a must-experience.
Stay updated with the latest news by following Ayala Malls Cinemas on Facebook. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through the rich tapestry of global cinema, exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas.
The wait is over, thrill-seekers! Brace yourselves for an exhilarating cinematic experience like no other as 20th Century Studios’ spine-tingling supernatural thriller, “A Haunting in Venice,” materializes exclusively on the silver screen starting September 13, 2023.
Prepare to be captivated by the enigmatic character posters that have surfaced, teasing the eerie and uncanny world of this gripping tale. Crafted under the directorial prowess of the Oscar®-winning maestro Kenneth Branagh, this unsettling masterpiece draws inspiration from Agatha Christie’s bewitching novel, “Hallowe’en Party.” With an A-list ensemble cast, including the likes of Branagh himself as the legendary detective Hercule Poirot, along with Kyle Allen, Camille Cottin, Jamie Dornan, Tina Fey, Jude Hill, Ali Khan, Emma Laird, Kelly Reilly, Riccardo Scamarcio, and Michelle Yeoh, be ready to embark on an unforgettable journey into the unknown.
Eerie Allure
“A Haunting in Venice” transports us to the post-World War II Venice, draped in an unsettling atmosphere on the eve of All Hallows’. Our beloved Poirot, now in self-imposed exile in the opulent city, reluctantly finds himself drawn into a labyrinthine web of intrigue when he attends a séance at a decaying, haunted palazzo. But as the night unfolds, the supernatural takes a sinister twist, thrusting Poirot into a realm where shadows conceal ghastly secrets.
Masterful Reunion
For those who reveled in the mystery and grandeur of “Murder on the Orient Express” (2017) and “Death on the Nile” (2022), a delightful reunion is in store. This film is a testament to the creative synergy that birthed those gems, helmed by none other than Kenneth Branagh himself, with a screenplay penned by the Oscar®-nominated virtuoso Michael Green. Agatha Christie’s original masterpiece “Hallowe’en Party” forms the foundation for this chilling narrative, brought to life by a crew of filmmaking veterans.
Behind the Scenes Magic
As the curtains rise on “A Haunting in Venice,” we can’t help but marvel at the incredible minds shaping this supernatural saga. With the likes of Kenneth Branagh, Judy Hofflund, Ridley Scott, and Simon Kinberg in the producer’s chair, and the executive brilliance of Louise Killin, James Prichard, and Mark Gordon, this film emerges as a true labor of love and creativity.
Echoes of Suspense
The hauntingly atmospheric Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, composed by the renowned Hildur Guðnadóttir, will drop on September 13, 2023, setting the stage for an auditory journey that perfectly complements the visual enigma that is “A Haunting in Venice.”
With September 13th circled on the calendar, cinephiles and mystery enthusiasts alike have a date with destiny. Don’t miss your chance to witness the convergence of uncanny forces, top-tier acting, and directorial brilliance, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Venice’s haunting beauty.
As darkness descends and secrets unravel, will you dare to step into the enigmatic world of “A Haunting in Venice“? Get ready for a roller-coaster ride of chills, thrills, and spine-tingling suspense, all under the skilled direction of Kenneth Branagh. Keep your popcorn close and your wits even closer – the Venice of your nightmares awaits.
Still on the high from the Cinemalaya 19 fever, the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Cinemalaya Foundation Inc are already gearing up for the 20th edition of the country’s biggest independent film festival in 2024.
Upholding its vision to develop and support the production of cinematic works of Filipino independent filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity, the Cinemalaya organizing committee announces the ten (10) full-length finalists who will be competing to be named the Best Film in Cinemalaya 20.
The finalists were selected from the 20 semi-finalists who have undergone the Cinemalaya Film Lab, a three-month-long film-laboratory mentorship program to train the finalists in the different aspects of filmmaking such as scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, performance, editing, production design, sound, music, production management, and promotion strategies, among others.
Here are the 10 finalists of the Main Competition’s Full-Length Category:
Alipato by JL Burgos
LOGLINE: The brother of missing activist Jonas Burgos bares in this documentary the untold stories behind the confidential leads, damning evidence, and why the disappearance of his brother remains a relevant case today.
Ang Tumandok (The Inhabitants) by Kat Sumagaysay and Richard Salvadico
LOGLINE: Based on real-life trials of the Atis, the indigenous people of Central Panay, and starred by the Atis themselves, ANG TUMANDOK features a 16-year-old chieftain’s daughter as she fights tooth and nail with her people for their ancestral land. The gripping tale takes us deep into the heart of their fight, highlighting their unwavering spirit and their unbreakable bond with the land they call home.
Aripuen (The Servant) by Christopher Gozum
LOGLINE: Stranded for 21 years in a remote mountain village in a Middle Eastern country, 63-year-old Filipina shepherdess Divina Sabangan endures isolation, threats of imprisonment and deportation, homesickness, unpaid salaries, and insanity while clinging to her faith in God and love for her family. But when seven mysterious visitors arrive, they bring challenges and opportunities to finally help her return home to the Philippines.
Balota by Kip Oebanda
LOGLINE: A land-grabbing tycoon and a former sexy male actor are locked in a tight race for mayor in a small town. When violence erupts, Emmy, a teacher, runs into the wilderness with a ballot box, the last copy of the election results. Emmy and the community try to outsmart and outmaneuver the goons who want the elections to fail.
Gulay Lang Manong by BC Amparado
LOGLINE: Pilo is a struggling, old vegetable farmer in Benguet. His stoner brother, Ricky, is part of the prominent Benguet Marijuana Cartel and is being trained by his best friend, Razer, a cunning midget and a well-known personality in the underground Ganja community. Amidst the all-out drug war, Ricky falls into the hands of a promising patrolman, Ariel, who is in pursuit of the organization. In a desperate attempt to uncover the cartel, Ariel tasks Pilo to fetch Razer in exchange for Ricky’s head. Unable to fulfill the terms in his attempt, Pilo now pledges his alliance with Ariel, and together they try and catch Razer to expose the Cartel and its members learning shocking secrets as they burrow deep into the world of this so-called “drug”.
Kantil (Trench) by Joshua Caesar Medroso
LOGLINE: While facing threats of demolition, a coastal community of informal settlers in Purok 12, Tibungco, Davao City discovers a strange, unearthly shell by the sea. This makes them more vulnerable to menacing powers set out to destroy their homes and their humanity.
Kono Basho (This Place) by Jaime Pacena II
LOGLINE: An introspective journey of a Filipino son attending the funeral of his estranged OFW father in a city in Japan that is rebuilding from the aftermath of the March 2011 tsunami.
Love Child byJonathan Jurilla
LOGLINE: Young, unmarried couple, AILA and PAO must agree on certain terms on how to properly raise their son, who is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), if they wish to keep their relationship afloat. Or would they rather heed the call of their unfulfilled dreams?
The Errand by Sarge Lacuesta
LOGLINE: A driver is sent on a simple errand: to pick up a designer t-shirt and a tin of viagra for his boss, who is shacked up in a hotel with his lover. Simple as it sounds, the road trip crisscrosses the chasms of time, class, and character.
The Wedding Dance by Julius Lumiqued
LOGLINE: In 1942, a Kalinga woman is personally invited by her husband, a warrior of their tribe, to his new wedding dance.
I’ll be honest and say that I’m a little tired of superhero movies. There’s one or two every other month, if not in the big screen, there’s one on a streaming site and just the huge amount of it has started to make them all look and feel and sound the same. Now, every studio is trying to push for the next insert-minority-here superhero and so when the trailer for ‘Blue Beetle’ came out, with a very Latino-centric trailer, it really looked and felt to be just another attempt to cash in on the superhero craze and progressive trend of minority representation.
I came into the theater preparing to be bored, maybe even hate it, but I found myself charmed by the movie at the end of it.
And this had everything to do with the charm of its lead actor, Xolo Mariduena, and the way the film never strays too far from its emotional core, which is that of the importance of family. It balances the humor and the fun with all the dramatic beats that are necessary to propel an origin story into something that is enjoyable to watch, even if it’s the nth origin story of yet another superhero in a cinematic landscape that has been overrun by superheroes in the past decade.
‘Blue Beetle’ is the story of Jaime Reyes, the first from his family to graduate from college. He returns to Palmera City to reunite with his family only to discover that his father isn’t healthy and they’ve lost their family business and their homes. In an effort to help out his family, he finds himself working as cleaner for the Kord family, owners of Kord Industries who are heavily invested in developing hi-tech weapons for the army. He bumps into Jenny Kord, who offers him a job after he is fired by Jenny’s aunt, Victoria, when he tries to stop her from threatening her niece. When he tries to cash in on her offer, she ends up handing him an alien artifact that merges with Jaime’s body and turns him into the Blue Beetle.
The first ten to fifteen minutes, we are introduced to Jaime and his very boisterous family that is filled with characters that have their own quirks and eccentricities. It properly sets up Jaime’s idealism, his values (which he gets from his family), the tight and close-knit nature of Latino families (which is very, very similar to Filipino families – so it feels just right), and it amplifies the marginilization of the Latinos from the rich, financial district of Palmera City. Jaime is of working-class origins while the world of the Kords is full of high-rises and neon hologram signages plastered on buildings.
When Jaime gains his powers, he’s against it. What is wonderful about his character is how much he doesn’t want it, exemplified by a very simple line halfway into the movie when he says, “I just wanted a job.” All the trouble he gets into is because Jenny Kord, without options, gave him the scarab to guard and the scarab, being a sentient entity of its own, chose Jaime to bond with.
For a good thirty or forty minutes, Jaime is learning how to use his powers and to differentiate himself and the alien entity known as Khaji-Da. But Victoria Kord wants it, and she threatens his family for it. And whether Jaime wants to be or not, he has to find it within himself to become a hero and save his family from a potential fascist.
What makes ‘Blue Beetle’ so enjoyable is that it sticks to the core values of its hero, and they are things that are very relatable. He’s not out there to save the world – even if his family, after they realise his potential, thinks he could/should – he only wants to keep his family safe. Through this, he bonds with Jenny, who doesn’t have the same close bonds with her family. Her aunt Victoria is ready to kill for the advancement of her company, and Jenny’s own father, Ted Kord, has disappeared and may have abandoned her.
While Jaime discovers how to properly use and work with Khaji-Da, we get some interesting superpowered fight sequences, but more importantly, we see such powerful imagery of Victoria’s plans of making a private security service that feels very fascistic and imperialist by imagery and ideology. No one outright says it, but it’s there for you to pick up on (and there’s a joke that comes out later that highlights the fact, by obliquely).
Add to that is the imagery in one pivotal scene where the security force herd Jaime’s family out of their house, it has all the visual marks of American discrimination against Latinos and Hispanics. With Susan Sarandon playing Victoria Kord, she’s the only white character in the whole movie (Jenny Kord is half Brazilian and is played by Bruna Marquezine) and the white imperialist imagery is completed (though never forcefully underlined except in a joke or two).
All the politics are evident and at play but never highlighted because at its very core is the story of Jaime Reyes, who finds himself with a power that he must decide how he will use moving forward. He has a family to protect but with it, comes a community as well. And interestingly enough, the film also puts that same family at the center of it all. When Jaime needs them, they come running and they have their own moment to shine.
While there’s a lot of things to enjoy, ‘Blue Beetle’ does suffer from a few things as well. There’s a love story that never full develops and feels forced by the end of the film. The seeds have been planted, it could have been something that can develop over the sequel but rushing it in this movie felt forced. Sometimes, the family feels too much like a comic relief that it can get cloying (but that’s just a personal observation).
Overall, ‘Blue Beetle’ is fresh and delightful and does not try to be over ambitious in setting up its character. It’s grounded by its emotional core and never strays too far from it no matter how much fun the film tries to have. Xolo Mariduena has a charm that can hold an audience’s attention but is also supported by a supporting cast who are all willing to pull their weight.Even after superhero movie fatigue is in effect, ‘Blue Beetle’ still manages to be refreshing and enjoyable and that’s no easy feat.
My Rating:
BLUE BEETLE is now showing nationwide. Buy your tickets here.
As the cinematic universe continues to unfold, Warner Bros. Pictures introduces us to a fresh face – one that DC fans have eagerly anticipated. “Blue Beetle” is not just another addition to the superhero genre; it marks the iconic DC Super Hero’s maiden voyage on the big screen. Directed by the visionary Ángel Manuel Soto, the film casts a spotlight on the dynamic Xolo Maridueña, embodying both the superhero Blue Beetle and his unassuming alter ego, Jaime Reyes. Fresh out of college, Jaime’s return home is anything but ordinary. Faced with a changing environment and the challenges of finding his place in the world, Jaime’s life takes a cosmic turn. In a twist of fate, he encounters the Scarab, an age-old relic with alien origins. As this powerful entity chooses him as its host, Jaime is thrust into a destiny that sees him armored with unparalleled power, setting him on a journey to becoming the superhero – BLUE BEETLE. Let’s unmask eight intriguing facts about “Blue Beetle” that every true fan should know.
1. Blue Beetle’s Big Screen Debut
While DC has a pantheon of superheroes, “Blue Beetle” marks the first-ever cinematic venture for the DC superhero. It’s not every day that we see a fresh face from the expansive DC Universe, and with Jaime Reyes as the chosen Beetle, the expectations are through the roof. The title itself is quite a statement in the world of superhero movies!
“Blue Beetle” isn’t just a catchy name or a snazzy costume. The story revolves around the young Jaime Reyes, who stumbles upon the mysterious Blue Beetle scarab, unaware of its powerful alien technology.
2. Jaime Reyes: The Heart of the Story
The plot revolves around Jaime Reyes, played by Xolo Maridueña, a recent college graduate. As Jaime returns home with dreams and aspirations for his future, destiny has different plans. An alien biotechnological relic, the Scarab, finds its way to him, transforming him into the enigmatic BLUE BEETLE.
Jaime Reyes stands tall as one of DC’s most prominent Latino superheroes. Breaking the mold, the film proudly places diversity and representation front and center, giving audiences a hero they can truly resonate with.
3. Pinoy Powerhouse: Inka Magnaye Voices the Scarab in “Blue Beetle“
In a move that celebrates diversity, the Philippine release features the voice talents of Filipina Inka Magnaye as the Scarab. This touch of localization adds a unique flavor to the global release. The renowned Filipina voice talent, Inka Magnaye, recognized for her soothing voice in Philippine Airlines’ in-flight announcements and a plethora of notable brand advertisements, will be voicing the Scarab, a pivotal character mentoring the film’s protagonist, Jaime Reyes. Adding a touch of local flavor, some of the Scarab’s lines under Magnaye’s rendition are even delivered in Tagalog. This marks a significant milestone as Magnaye becomes the first Philippine-based talent to voice-over in a DC film. Filipino fans, keep your ears peeled and celebrate this representation on the global stage!
4. From Comic Book Pages to Cinematic Evolution: The Multifaceted Journey of Blue Beetle
The legacy of Blue Beetle has seen a dynamic evolution from its comic book origins to its latest cinematic representation. Originating as Dan Garrett in “Mystery Men Comics #1” in 1939, the Blue Beetle character has undergone multiple transformations, from an archaeologist with a magic scarab to the genius inventor, Ted Kord, in 1966, and eventually into Jaime Reyes in 2006. The latter iteration showcases a young man deeply embedded in his Mexican American roots in El Paso, Texas. This first-ever live-action film adaptation takes creative liberties, introducing audiences to the vibrant Palmera City while retaining nods to El Paso. Further deepening the narrative complexity, the film diverts from the established connection of Jaime and Ted Kord and introduces a new link with Ted’s daughter, Jenny. This blend of honoring past lore while introducing fresh elements is a testament to the screenwriter’s dedication to infusing authenticity, Latin culture, and emotional depth into the hero’s origin story. And for those who revel in action, the film pays homage to “Injustice 2,” drawing from Blue Beetle’s iconic moves in the game.
5. Dazzling Palmera City: A Futuristic Marvel
One captivating fact about “Blue Beetle” is the creation of Palmera City, a vibrant metropolis that brings futuristic Neo-Miami vibes to life. Designed by the talented Production Designer John Billington, Palmera City stands as the newest addition to the DC universe. Situated in the heart of the film, this dazzling cityscape bursts with vibrant colors and cutting-edge technology, leaving an indelible mark on viewers.
As a beacon of modernity and advancement, Palmera City is adorned with neon colors and holograms, immersing audiences in a world where technology seamlessly integrates with daily life. The meticulous attention to detail in crafting this unique cityscape contributes to the film’s immersive experience, drawing viewers into a world of awe-inspiring visuals and imaginative storytelling.
From its bustling streets to its iconic Kord Tower that stands boldly in the center, Palmera City is not just a backdrop; it’s a character in its own right. This innovative urban landscape serves as the canvas upon which the tale of “Blue Beetle” unfolds, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. As viewers journey through the film, they’ll be transported to a future where possibilities are limitless and imagination knows no bounds, thanks to the mesmerizing creation of Palmera City.
6. Retro Vibes & Ingenious Sets: A Peek into “Blue Beetle’s” Cinematic Craftsmanship
The film pays meticulous attention to its sets, each telling a story of its own. The Reyes House is rich in warmth and familial affection, with interiors showcasing cherished family moments through numerous photographs. However, a nostalgic trip awaits at the Bug Lair, preserved since Ted Kord’s mysterious disappearance. This set immerses audiences in a time capsule from the 1970s and ’80s, its ambiance dominated by turquoise blues, pinks, and an unmistakable Memphis flair.
The Bug Lair, serving as both Ted’s sanctuary and the home of the Bug ship, brims with a fascinating array of artifacts. Extra electronics and TVs grace its expanse, offering tantalizing glimpses into the multifunctional potential of Ted’s creations. These meticulously placed elements offer fans a tantalizing taste of the Bug ship’s console, hinting at the limitless possibilities and the boundless imagination that resonate throughout “Blue Beetle.”
Fans are in for a treat with easter eggs sprinkled around, including a nod to Ted’s boxing past from the comics. The cherry on top? The Bug Ship – an ingenious representation of Ted Kord’s legacy and an ode to the previous Blue Beetle. This blue-metal marvel isn’t just for show; it has the capability of both flight and terrestrial movement, making it a true embodiment of its beetle inspiration.
7. Behind the Beetle’s Armor: The Intricate Artistry and Alien Biotechnology of Blue Beetle’s Costume
Drawing from both real-world craftsmanship and the vibrant imagination of the DC universe, the Blue Beetle suit stands as a testimony to innovative costume design. Designed by Mayes C. Rubeo, the suit underwent an extensive 9-month development process. Over 500 designs were meticulously curated before the final selection. This wasn’t just a mere costume—it was an embodiment of the intricate relationship between Jaime Reyes and the Scarab, a symbiotic relationship brought to life through star Xolo Maridueña.
Every inch of the Blue Beetle suit screams ‘custom-made.’ Whether it’s the digital designs, 3D printing, hand-picked fabrics, or the bespoke physical armor pieces, everything was crafted for that perfect fit. To ensure Maridueña could effortlessly bring the character to life, the suit was strategically constructed using latex, spiced up with hand-painted touches and a specialized printed material made of four-way spandex. Not only was the costume lightweight, but its break points also ensured flexibility.
However, it wasn’t just about physicality. The fabric bore an alien-inspired pattern, ensuring every strand, every weave, resonated with the Scarab’s extraterrestrial biotech origin. The suit’s origins are deeply rooted in alien biotechnology, serving as both an armor and, interestingly, a skin. Deriving from the Scarab, a sentient entity named Khaji-Da, the suit fuses with its wearer—Jaime Reyes in this tale. This isn’t just a protective layer; its unpredictable nature and the ability to morph into any weapon imagined by the host make it a formidable ally.
8. Behind the Scenes: Unveiling the Easter Eggs and Original Elements of the Movie
Characters Uncle Rudy and Jenny Kord are original additions, as they don’t appear in the comic books, while Victoria Kord is a reinterpretation of Jarvis Kord from the comics. Subtle references to the DC universe are scattered throughout, such as a street sign in Edge Keys giving a nod to El Paso, the original birthplace of Jaime Reyes in the DC canon. The filmmakers use the word “Ánimo” to highlight Jaime Reyes/Blue Beetle’s remarkable courage. Furthermore, a delightful touch is added with Uncle Rudy’s favorite song being “Walk Like an Egyptian” by the Bangles, and inside the Bug Lair, hints of Ted Kord’s boxing past can be found.
In wrapping up our journey into the world of “Blue Beetle,” it’s evident that this film is more than just another superhero saga. With its rich blend of cultural references, meticulous attention to design, and the promise of a narrative deeply rooted in familial ties, “Blue Beetle” sets itself apart in the ever-expanding universe of superhero cinema. Whether you’re a long-time comic book enthusiast or new to the DC fold, this movie promises an experience that is both refreshing and deeply resonant. So, whether you’re a die-hard DC fan or a newcomer to the saga, this film beckons with a tale that’s both fresh and deeply rooted in its origins. Don’t miss out!
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles made a big impression on Seth Rogen at a very early age. “The animated series came out in 1987, when I was five. The first movie came out in 1990, when I was eight,” he says. “It was perfectly geared toward someone my age and I loved it. They were funny. They were referential. I started taking karate probably because of the Turtles. I was just kind of obsessed.”
So when Brian Robbins, President and CEO of Paramount and Nickelodeon, called Rogen to ask him if he’d like to discuss making a new Turtles movie, Rogen already knew exactly what he wanted to do.
“It’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” Rogen says. “Of all those words, the teenage part was the most under-explored, and the most interesting to me.” And that is how Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem began. Rogen saw in it a Turtles movie made with a genuine teen spirit – breaking all the rules, ripping up the playbook and doing everything on its own terms.
To help shape a Turtles movie with the wit and verve they wanted, Rogen, his producing partner Evan Goldberg, and Mutant Mayhem producer James Weaver needed a director who could tell a story full of heart and humor, but who was also not afraid to break the rules. They were pointed in the direction – by Phil Lord and Chris Miller no less – of one man: Jeff Rowe, co-writer and co-director of The Mitchells Vs. The Machines.
Rowe admits that he didn’t need all that much in the way of persuading. As a professed lifelong Turtles fan, when he heard there was a search on for a director for a new version of them, his head started spinning. “I thought, ‘That sounds like a dream project. I would kill to do that,’” Rowe says.
Rowe and his producers all agreed on the direction for the story, which would consider the siblings teenagers first, turtles second. But then Rowe wanted to push the concept even further. What if the movie about teenagers looked like it was made by teenagers? “When he first pitched it,” laughs Goldberg, “we said, ‘Maybe… I don’t know, man. It sounds a little crazy.’”
It probably was a little crazy, at least at first. Rowe’s idea was that he wanted to make a movie that looked not slick and polished – like most CG movies – but as messy, fun and unpredictable as the story’s heroes. “We just wanted it to look like teenage drawings,” says Rowe. “You know, the kind of drawings you did when you were in high school that have weird shapes and bad perspective but are lovingly rendered in places. And were always sincere.”
As the Turtles co-creator and a man who has seen them transform so many times over the years, Kevin Eastman couldn’t be more happy with what everyone has achieved with Mutant Mayhem. “It’s big and loud and proud,” he says. “These guys nailed it.”
In Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, after years of being sheltered from the human world, the Turtle brothers set out to win the hearts of New Yorkers and be accepted as normal teenagers through heroic acts. Their new friend April O’Neil helps them take on a mysterious crime syndicate, but they soon get in over their heads when an army of mutants is unleashed upon them.
In Philippine cinemas starting August 23, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Connect with #MutantMayhem #TMNTMovie and tag paramountpicsph
Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
Lights, camera, action! It’s that time of the week again when we bring you the latest movies hitting the big screen. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed superhero stories, spine-tingling mysteries, or enchanting musicals, there’s something for everyone at the box office. Spotlighting the latest releases, this week premieres DC’s electrifying superhero Blue Beetle, the intense action-drama of Badge of Honor, the spine-tingling Ghost Project, and the eerie Hitch Hike. And for those seeking a dash of nostalgia, sing your heart out with The Little Mermaid: Sing-Along Version. Venture into the vast cosmos with the critically acclaimed The Moon, and Third World Romance delves deep into the complexities of relationships. So, grab your popcorn and pick your cinematic adventure!
Watch as Jaime Reyes discovers a mysterious scarab that grants him extraordinary powers but comes with challenges he never imagined. If you’re a fan of action-packed sequences, heartfelt moments, and an iconic origin story, this is your stop.
When honor meets the dark alleys of crime, what unfolds is a story that keeps you at the edge of your seat. In Badge of Honor, witness the intertwined lives of police officers and those they vow to protect. It’s a gripping narrative that will redefine your definition of heroism.
Prepare for a chilling experience with Ghost Project. Delve deep into the spectral realm, unraveling mysteries that have been locked away in forgotten vaults. Make sure you’re not watching this alone; after all, who doesn’t love a spine-tingling companion?
The open road can bring adventure, surprises, and unexpected encounters. Hitch Hike is all about those untold road stories, the people we meet, and the paths we choose. It’s a ride you won’t forget!
2023 • G • 2 hrs 15 mins ADVENTURE, FAMILY, FANTASY, ROMANCE, MUSICAL BUY TICKET
A wave of nostalgia is about to hit! Belt out to your favorite tunes with Ariel, Flounder, and Sebastian. The Little Mermaid: Sing-Along Version is here to make sure you lose your voice (metaphorically, of course)!
The cosmos beckons with The Moon. Discover the exhilarating adventure of astronauts striving against all odds in space’s vast expanse. As previously reviewed by our own film critic Wanggo, this film carries a 4/5 stars rating that promises an otherworldly experience.
Love knows no boundaries, and Third World Romance reiterates that beautifully. Delve into the intricate tapestry of love, dreams, and the challenges that come with them. It’s a tale of love like no other, set in a world that’s real and raw.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Some fan favorites are still holding strong, providing cinema lovers with a plethora of choices. Make sure to check them out if you haven’t already!
There you have it, movie buffs! So, what’s it going to be? A splash with mermaids, a rollercoaster of emotions in space, or a heart-stopping ghostly encounter? This week’s lineup offers a diverse range of cinematic treats to suit every taste. Don’t miss your chance to catch these must-see flicks while they’re still showing. Have a great time at the movies!
An underdog sports story based on the life of a real gamer-turned-racecar driver, Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story will have sneak preview screenings at regular run admission prices in cinemas nationwide on Monday August 21, and Tuesday August 22. Be among the first to catch the film – watch it a week before it begins its regular run on August 30.
Orlando Bloom and David Harbour
The film, which tells the story of Jann Mardenborough, a Gran Turismo player whose gaming skills won a series of Nissan competitions to become an actual professional racecar driver, stars David Harbour, Orlando Bloom and Archie Madekwe as Mardenborough.
Early fan screenings in the U.S. have led to tremendously positive responses from moviegoers, with many saying how surprised they were to love the film so much (even those who are not into the games or racing), and with many applauding the high-octane theatrical experience, imploring friends to see the movie on the big screen in a packed theater.
“#GranTurismoMovie was absolutely fantastic! The whole theater screamed and cheered the whole film,” raved fan Darrell Fair on Twitter/X.
Posted Cristy Velasquez, “#GranTurismoMovie just finished watching gran turismo and OMG it was AMAZING!! I was at the edge of my seat. I will definitely be watching this again.”
Director Neill Blomkamp (center) directing the racers, including the real Jann Mardenborough (foreground, right)
Grant Skoog lauded almost every aspect of the film in his post: “Blomkamp’s #GranTurismo is inspirational, emotional, thrilling, & riveting. Incredible Action! Phenomenal Acting, The moving Score, fast paced Editing, & gorgeous Cinematography, made this one of the best theater experiences. I was on the edge of my seat. 9/10 #GranTurismoMovie”
Some critics were also impressed with the film. Said Variety, “‘Gran Turismo,’ Blomkamp’s first major feature in eight years, is easily his best. It’s made with a spontaneous humanistic grace, and the racing sequences, which dominate the movie because they’re truly the story it’s telling, are dazzlingly directed and edited.”
Indiewire raves that Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story “is a thrilling retelling of one of the craziest stories in recent sports history, shot with the level of skillful spectacle that the source material demands. Blomkamp might have directed the best 90-minute sports movie of the decade.”
ComingSoon.net is all praises as well, describing the film as “the heart-pounding crowd-pleaser of the year with [a] classic underdog story that knocks it out of the park.”
Archie Madekwe (in car) and the real Jann Mardenborough
Based on the true story of Jann Mardenborough, the film is the ultimate wish fulfillment tale of a teenage Gran Turismo player whose gaming skills won a series of Nissan competitions to become an actual professional racecar driver.
Directed by Neill Blomkamp, screenplay by Jason Hall and Zach Baylin, based on the PLAYSTATION STUDIOS video game.
Produced by Doug Belgrad, Asad Qizilbash, Carter Swan, Dana Brunetti. The executive producers are Kazunori Yamauchi, Herman Hulst, Jason Hall, Matthew Hirsch.
The cast is led by David Harbour, Orlando Bloom, Archie Madekwe, Darren Barnet, Geri Halliwell Horner and Djimon Hounsou.
In Philippine cinemas August 30, Gran Turismois distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #GranTurismoMovie
Director and screenwriter Kim Yong-hwa is no stranger to the big budget, special effects heavy narratives with a strong emotional core. He did ‘Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds’ and ‘Along with the Gods: The Last 49 Days,’ which features both aspects of his strengths. He capitalizes on these qualities again on his latest film ‘The Moon’ with Do Kyung-soo (more famously known as D.O. of EXO), Sol Kyung Gu, and Kim Hee-Ae. Very reminiscent of similar trapped-in-space stories like ‘Gravity’ or ‘The Martian,’ Do Kyung-soo plays Hwang Sun-woo, a former Navy Seal turned astronaut, who is one of the three Korean men sent to the moon. When an incident leaves Hwang Sun-woo stranded and alone in space, the ground command of the Korean Space program must find a way to help him back to Earth.
While the film has its share of exciting thrills and spills – it features quite a number of amazing set ups involving meteor showers and exploding space crafts – it also has its fair share of touching emotional moments and some exciting suspense plot in terms of the inner workings of competing space programs.
While one can find a lot of fun with just the survival aspect of the movie alone; Kim Yong-hwa adds more to the plate by adding a dramatic layer for Do Kyung-soo’s character to chew on. Hwang Sun-woo has a personal tie to the mission and it informs on his drive to complete the mission despite everything going against him. The same with Sol Kyung Gu’s Jae Kook, who also has a personal relationship with the whole endeavour. After all, he was the first director the Korean space program where the astronauts who were sent to moon did not make it alive.
From these events comes a story that contextualizes the power that it gives any country that manages a successful space program. ‘The Moon’ manages to give us insight over a country’s determination to be considered at par with the superpowers around them. As Filipinos, we’ve already succumbed to the soft power of South Korea. We help sell-out their Kpop concerts and fan meets with their actors. We’ve helped push their media into the top 10 of any streaming site and we’ve become familiar with their food, some famous phrases, and such. The world is starting to see South Korea in a separate light but ‘The Moon’ helps us contextualize things that I’ve also seen in other Korean dramas and movies and read in some articles: that South Korea also has a form of colonial mentality of their own. Much like how a number of Kpop acts look to America for recognition (like The Grammy awards) or appearance in music festivals like Coachella or how the Academy Award win for ‘Parasite’ was such a big thing for them, there seems to be an underlying message that is familiar to us Filipinos: that the west (and recognition from the west) is a powerful thing.
What’s great about ‘The Moon’ is that the film aspires to go beyond that and that it sends a clear message that South Korea has the capacity to do it on their own. From the strong images and the narrative choices that the film makes: how NASA is a competitor, not an ally (and in some ways, they are the bad guys, which is a welcome change); how politicians can still be a hindrance to the growth of any country (as played by Jo Han Chul, who is excellent in these kinds of roles); and how South Korea can come together and save one man trapped in the moon.
The film is so tonally precise that it employs great epic music to really push the emotions of the viewers to where it wants it to go, it can be manipulative the way commercial films always are and can promise a great time. I do have issues with certain emotional scenes that were not set-up properly. There is a third act subplot that is introduced, which may have benefitted from an earlier set up as well as a story point that becomes morally objectionable that isn’t resolve in a satisfying manner (in my opinion).
But overall, ‘The Moon’ is a film that is easy to enjoy and appreciate with a dedicated call for its viewers to dream bigger and to unite for humanity’s sake.
My Rating:
THE MOON will be shown in cinemas nationwide starting August 16. Buy your tickets here.
