Join Star-Lord and the crew as they embark on their final quest to save one of their own in Marvel Studios’ “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3,” now playing in Philippine cinemas! In this highly anticipated finale, our favorite misfit heroes find themselves settling into their new home on planet Knowhere, only for the ghosts of Rocket’s past to come knocking. With the team still reeling from Gamora’s loss, Peter Quill must rally the Guardians for a dangerous mission that could either save Rocket or spell doom for the Guardians as we know them.
The star-studded cast of “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” includes Chris Pratt (Peter Quill/Star-Lord), Zoe Saldana (Gamora), Dave Bautista (Drax), Karen Gillan (Nebula), Pom Klementieff (Mantis), Vin Diesel (Groot), Bradley Cooper (Rocket), Sean Gunn (Kraglin), Chukwudi Iwuji (High Evolutionary), Will Poulter (Adam Warlock), and Maria Bakalova (Cosmo the Spacedog). The film is directed by James Gunn and produced by Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Nikolas Korda, Simon Hatt, and Sara Smith.
Guests at the “Party with the Guardians” booth at SM Megamall Fashion Hall
To fully immerse yourself in the Guardians’ universe, don’t miss the The Official Guardians of the Galaxy Soundtrack on Spotify. The Guardians of the Galaxy: The Official Mixtape boasts iconic artists such as Radiohead, Florence + The Machine, Beastie Boys, Bruce Springsteen, and more! Check out the full soundtrack on Spotify here.
Guests at the “Party with the Guardians” booth at SM Megamall Fashion Hall
Join the Guardians on their “last ride” together in cinemas now. Explore all available showtimes of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and book your tickets today!
Stay updated with the latest news and promos by following Marvel Studios Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Join the conversations online using #GotGVol3PH.
Long live the fighters. The saga continues as award-winning filmmaker Denis Villeneuve brings you back to the vast, unforgiving desert in “Dune: Part Two,” the thrilling next chapter of Frank Herbert’s celebrated novel “Dune.” Set to grace Philippine cinemas on November 1, 2023, this much-awaited follow-up to the six-time Oscar-winning “Dune” from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures promises an even more heart-pounding adventure. Catch a glimpse of the epic story in the newly-released trailer.
Join Paul Atreides, played by Timothée Chalamet, as he forges alliances with Chani and the Fremen in a warpath of vengeance against the scheming conspirators who tore his family apart. As Paul faces a gut-wrenching choice between his love and the fate of the universe, he strives to avert a catastrophic future only he can predict.
Denis Villeneuve directed and co-wrote the screenplay with Jon Spaihts, inspired by Frank Herbert’s novel. The film boasts a star-studded cast, including Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Dave Bautista, Christopher Walken, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Léa Seydoux, Stellan Skarsgård, Charlotte Rampling, and Javier Bardem. Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Villeneuve, Tanya Lapointe, and Patrick McCormick produced the film, while Josh Grode, Herbert W. Gains, Jon Spaihts, Thomas Tull, Brian Herbert, Byron Merritt, and Kim Herbert served as executive producers. Kevin J. Anderson acted as a creative consultant. The legendary Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer returns to create the mesmerizing score.
Mark your calendars for November 1 and get ready for a breathtaking cinematic experience as “Dune: Part Two” hits the big screen in the Philippines. Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, distributes the film nationwide.
Join the online conversation and share your excitement with the hashtag #DunePartTwo
Hold on to your popcorn, movie lovers! This week, we’ve got exciting flicks making their debut: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, The Unseen and Rebound. The big screen is filled with a range of new cinematic gems, offering to take you on heartwarming, thrilling, and spine-tingling adventures. Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Let’s dive into the weekly roundup of new movies opening this week.
Marvel fans assemble! Get ready for an intergalactic adventure with the highly anticipated finale to the epic Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy! Helmed by James Gunn, our favorite motley crew of heroes, including Star-Lord (Chris Pratt), Gamora (Zoe Saldana), Drax (Dave Bautista), Rocket (voiced by Bradley Cooper), Groot (voiced by Vin Diesel), Nebula (Karen Gillan), Mantis (Pom Klementieff), Kraglin (Sean Gunn), High Evolutionary (Chukwudi Iwuji), Adam Warlock (Will Poulter), and Cosmo (voiced by Maria Bakalova) return to protect the galaxy one last time. With a toe-tapping soundtrack, breathtaking visuals, and a perfect blend of humor and heart, this Marvel masterpiece promises to be an out-of-this-world cinematic experience.
A spine-tingling thriller that follows the story of Tommy Olson, a law student plagued by mysterious visions and a sinister darkness that seems to be stalking him. Starring RJ Mitte, Christian Stolte, Jennifer A. Goodman, and Rebekah Kennedy, this gripping film keeps you on the edge of your seat. As Tommy becomes entangled in a deadly puzzle involving a mysterious killer, he must confront the chilling truth that he might be the final piece. Immerse yourself in the unnerving world of “The Unseen,” where darkness lurks in every corner and the truth lies just beyond the shadows.
An inspiring sports drama that tells the story of Joong-Ang High School’s once-celebrated basketball team as they struggle to regain their former glory. When social worker and former minor league baseball player, Coach Kang Yang-hyeon, takes charge of the team, he faces a tough challenge in uniting a group of misfit athletes. As the team battles their way through the KBA National Tournament with only six players on their roster, they learn the value of perseverance, teamwork, and Coach Kang’s motto: “There is no such thing as missed shots, there are only rebounds!” Follow the incredible journey of Busan Joong-Ang High as they defy the odds and rediscover their love for the game.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
In addition to these fresh releases, you can still catch some of the most popular films of recent weeks. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still playing in theaters:
RENFIELD Sink your teeth into Renfield, a fresh take on the classic tale of Dracula’s loyal servant. This horror-comedy offers a unique spin on the vampire genre, with a healthy dose of laughs to lighten the mood. Don’t miss this fang-tastic flick, perfect for a night out with friends.
THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE Join Mario, Luigi, and the whole Mushroom Kingdom gang in The Super Mario Bros. Movie! This animated adventure, featuring the voices of Chris Pratt and Anya Taylor-Joy, brings your favorite video game characters to life on the big screen.
AIR Discover the game-changing partnership between a then undiscovered Michael Jordan and Nike’s fledgling basketball division which revolutionized the world of sports and culture with the Air Jordan brand.
JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4 Continue the exhilarating journey of the legendary assassin John Wick in the highly anticipated John Wick: Chapter 4. With its heart-pounding action, jaw-dropping stunts, and intense storyline, this film is a surefire hit for those who crave non-stop adrenaline rushes.
THE POPE’S EXORCIST Delve into the chilling world of The Pope’s Exorcist, a horror film that follows the Vatican’s chief exorcist as he confronts unspeakable evil. With its spine-tingling suspense and nerve-wracking scares, this movie is not for the faint of heart.
VOLTES V LEGACY: THE CINEMATIC EXPERIENCE Rev up your nostalgia engines with Voltes V Legacy: The Cinematic Experience! This live-action adaptation of the classic Filipino anime series is packed with action, adventure, and plenty of robot-fueled fun.
There you have it, movie buffs! This week’s lineup offers a diverse range of cinematic treats to suit every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for heart-pounding action, spine-tingling horror, or an uplifting sports drama, you’ll find it all at your local theater. Don’t miss your chance to catch these must-see flicks while they’re still showing, and remember to share the cinematic love with your friends and family. Have a great time at the movies!
Returning to the action and spectacle that have captured moviegoers around the world, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts will take audiences on a ’90s globetrotting adventure with the Autobots and introduce a whole new faction of Transformers – the Maximals – to join them as allies in the existing battle for earth. Directed by Steven Caple Jr. and starring Anthony Ramos and Dominique Fishback, the film arrives in theaters June 7.
The screenplay is by Joby Harold and Darnell Metayer & Josh Peters and Erich Hoeber & Jon Hoeber, story by Joby Harold, based on Hasbro’s Transformers™ Action Figures.
Produced by Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Tom DeSanto & Don Murphy, Michael Bay, Mark Vahradian, Duncan Henderson.
The film stars Anthony Ramos, Dominique Fishback, Tobe Nwigwe, Peter Cullen, Ron Perlman, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, Liza Koshy, John DiMaggio, David Sobolov, Michaela Jae Rodriguez, Pete Davidson, Cristo Fernández.
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Connect with #Transformers #RiseOfTheBeasts and tag @paramountpicsph
Photo & Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
The anticipation for Marvel Studios’ GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3 is at an all-time high, and the recent global press conference offered fascinating insights into the making of this blockbuster. With a candid Q&A featuring director James Gunn, Chris Pratt and the star-studded cast, we were treated to an inside look at the creative process, the enduring friendships formed, and the lasting impact of these beloved characters.
A Trilogy That Transformed Lives
When asked about his journey with the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy and how it has changed him, Gunn shared, “I think it’s changed me in so many ways. I mean, everything I’ve learned from Kevin and Lou. I think also, in terms of just this family of people, I’ve been really good at hiring non-jerks. Not only non-jerks, but people who are actually positive, compassionate, loving, kind people.” The director emphasized that these genuine connections made the filmmaking experience even more rewarding, citing fond memories of goofing around on set and watching his casts’ incredible performances.
Gunn expressed a deep sense of sadness at the prospect of parting ways with the characters he has grown to love. He revealed that while he will undoubtedly continue to see the cast members as friends, he will miss writing the characters, especially Rocket. This heartfelt sentiment highlights the profound impact that these iconic characters have had not only on the audience but also on their creators.
Another hallmark of the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise is its memorable soundtrack. Gunn discussed the process of choosing songs for the films, explaining that he keeps a list of potential tracks and selects the ones that best fit the scene. “You know, I want to give good music to people by good bands. But when I’m writing, I put the music in along with the script. I write it in. But sometimes I change it. You know, some things on this, it was very difficult choosing the music for this movie because in the first two movies, they were basically all am ‘70s pop hits. In this one, you know, Yondu gives Peter Quill a Zune at the end of the second movie. And it’s, you know, music from the ‘70s, ‘80s,‘90s, 2000s.” He also mentioned the responsibility he feels to showcase good music from deserving bands, a sentiment that has resonated with fans who have come to associate the Guardians’ adventures with an iconic soundtrack.
This dedication to curating an unforgettable soundtrack has resulted in a distinct sonic identity for the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise.
Chris Pratt Reflects on the Guardians Journey
Chris Pratt opened up about his character’s emotional journey and his experience working with the talented cast and crew. As the trilogy draws to a close, Pratt’s candid reflections on playing Peter Quill and working with director James Gunn provided valuable insights into the dynamics behind the scenes and the character development throughout the series. Pratt highlighted that Peter Quill’s emotional arc has been defined by his search for identity. From the loss of his mother to the discovery of his father and his relationship with Gamora, Quill has struggled to find his true self. Pratt explained that Quill is a “a guy who’s constantly been searching for who he is,” and now that he has been stripped of his previous connections, he must confront his own sense of self and find his place in the universe.
During the Q&A, Pratt expressed his deep appreciation for working with James Gunn and the rest of the cast, sharing that both the journey and the destination have been “glorious” with this team. Acknowledging the importance of being present and savoring the moments, Pratt reminisced about the initial skepticism surrounding the first Guardians movie and how they defied expectations to become a beloved franchise. This close-knit group of actors and filmmakers have not only created memorable films but also forged lasting friendships that transcend the screen.
Nebula’s Evolution
Karen Gillan shares her thoughts on Nebula’s development post-Thanos, stating, “She’s starting to flourish a little bit more, and she’s a little more willing to show vulnerability.” This newfound sense of freedom allows Nebula to grow and embrace her lighter side, forming deeper connections with her newfound family.
Reuniting with the cast for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Gillan reflects on the joy of working with her fellow actors, both on and off the screen. She describes the experience as, “It feels like two families or something,” highlighting the special bond they share.
As an only child, Karen Gillan acknowledges the unique challenges she faced in portraying Nebula’s experience as a scapegoat sibling. Through her journey as Nebula, Gillan has gained a deeper understanding and respect for those who have lived through similar circumstances.
The Empathetic Enigma: Mantis
Pom Klementieff, the actress behind the lovable and enigmatic Mantis, shared her insights on how the character has impacted her life and career. Mantis, an empath, has become a fan favorite, winning hearts with her sincerity, purity, and unique moral compass.
When asked about the effect Mantis has had on her life, Klementieff remarked, “It’s not Mantis. It’s like, Mantis and James Gunn. James changed my life.” She continued to express her gratitude for the opportunity to portray Mantis, who allowed her to explore deep, profound emotions and showcase her “super weird” side. Mantis’ empathy, she said, is a beautiful message in a world that often lacks understanding and compassion.
Discussing the evolution of Mantis from the comic books to the big screen, Klementieff highlighted the importance of creating a different version of the character. Mantis, in the films, brings more comedy, awkwardness, and depth, standing out from other female superheroes.
James Gunn chimed in, emphasizing the significance of Mantis’ superpower being rooted in emotions and empathy. This alternative perspective on power challenges the traditional macho, action-packed norms of superhero films. Mantis’ emotional strength, as seen when she nearly defeated Thanos, speaks volumes about her impact.
Mantis has been dubbed the “glue” that keeps the Guardians together. Klementieff acknowledged the importance of diversity in the team, stating, “They all need each other.” Mantis’ unique qualities and empathic abilities are essential to the team’s dynamic, proving that even in a galaxy far, far away, the power of emotions and empathy cannot be underestimated.
Kraglin’s Evolution in Guardians of the Galaxy
Kraglin, portrayed by Sean Gunn, has evolved from a plucky comic relief to a dependable foundation of support for the team. Sean Gunn explains how Kraglin, much like the other Guardians, had to determine his role within the group. He draws a parallel between the journey of the cast and that of their characters, sharing how he initially felt like an outsider being the director’s brother, just as Kraglin was on the periphery of the team. However, over time, both Sean and Kraglin found their place within their respective families.
Kraglin’s growth into a responsible and competent member of the team has led other characters to lean on him more and more. As his skills and dependability increased, Kraglin has emerged as an essential figure the team can rely on in times of need. Kraglin’s transformation throughout the Guardians of the Galaxy series showcases not only the power of character development, but also the ability of an individual to find their place within a group.
Diving into the Darkness: The High Evolutionary
Fans can expect to be thrilled by the introduction of a new villain, the High Evolutionary. Played by the talented Chukwudi Iwuji, this character promises to be an unhinged genius who experiments on living creatures in the name of science.
To prepare for the role, Chukwudi immersed himself in classical music, particularly space opera, as the High Evolutionary is often depicted listening to this genre. Iwuji shared, “I thought of someone that doesn’t sleep, that’s obsessed with it, listening to this music. He needs the music as he wanders through his castle at night.” By connecting with the character’s love for classical music, Chukwudi sought to explore the depths of his personality and motivation.
To further develop his portrayal, Chukwudi drew inspiration from a speech in Shakespeare’s Henry IV, “Heavy is the head that wears the crown.” He reflected on the concept of a tortured soul, burdened by the weight of their actions, and the responsibility they carry. By considering these deeper elements, Chukwudi aimed to bring a sense of humanity to the character, allowing audiences to glimpse the person behind the villainous façade.
Will Poulter Joins Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
Entering an established team can be daunting, but for Will Poulter, joining the Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 cast was an exciting adventure. As the “new kid on the block,” Poulter shared his experience of being warmly welcomed by his fellow cast members. Despite being nervous about joining the team, Poulter expressed his gratitude for the hospitality he received from the cast. As a fan of the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, the opportunity to be a part of it was exhilarating. The support from the cast made the experience enjoyable, and the fun environment on set helped ease his nerves.
James Gunn’s commitment to creating a fun and positive atmosphere on set played a significant role in making Poulter’s experience an enjoyable one. Surrounded by wonderful people from various departments, Poulter found the transition into his new role smooth and stress-free.
Introducing Cosmo: The Marvelous Canine
Maria Bakalova shared her enthusiasm for her unique role in the film – a dog named Cosmo. Embracing the challenge with open arms, Bakalova discussed her approach to portraying the energetic canine character. When asked about her initial reaction to playing a dog, Bakalova admitted that she was even more excited about the role. Taking on this character allowed her to be more “over the top” and tap into the limitless energy of a puppy. Upon landing the job, Bakalova was eager to explore the boundless possibilities of embodying Cosmo.
James Gunn praised Bakalova’s performance as Cosmo, noting that her talent and dedication shone through from the very beginning. The actress’s passion for her work was evident in her commitment to being on set even when she wasn’t filming. Bakalova spent countless hours observing and learning from her fellow actors, becoming an invaluable part of the Guardians family.
A Trilogy Apart: Kevin Feige Reflects on Guardians of the Galaxy
Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige shared his thoughts on the impact of the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy during the global press conference for Vol. 3. He revealed how this trilogy has distinguished itself from other Marvel franchises, largely due to James Gunn’s unique vision. Feige discussed the significance of the Guardians trilogy in the MCU, emphasizing that it was the first film series to venture beyond the usual realm of superheroes. While still connected to Thanos and the Infinity Stones, the movies didn’t focus on the Avengers or other well-established characters. This bold decision to explore new territory stemmed from Marvel’s desire to diversify their content and not just produce superhero-centric movies.
Kevin Feige attributed the trilogy’s success to James Gunn, who wrote and directed all three installments. Feige expressed immense pride in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, highlighting its unique place within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Bidding Adieu to the Guardians
As the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy concludes, Pratt reflected on the bittersweet nature of saying goodbye to the franchise, comparing it to the last day of summer camp when you’re unsure if you’ll see your friends again. Despite the uncertainty, Pratt expressed gratitude for the experiences and friendships gained throughout this journey.
As the curtain closes on the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, fans can look back on a decade of thrilling adventures, iconic characters, and unforgettable music. With a talented cast, a visionary director, and an unforgettable soundtrack, the final installment of this beloved trilogy is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The cosmic voyage is about to begin, so grab your popcorn and get ready for a blockbuster experience that will rocket you to the far reaches of the Marvel Cinematic Universe!
Rev up your excitement as Columbia Pictures’ upcoming action-thriller,Gran Turismo, releases its adrenaline-pumping trailer. This exhilarating true story follows Jann Mardenborough, a gamer who became a real-life racecar driver. The movie will hit Philippine cinemas soon, so buckle up and watch the trailer now!
Gran Turismo is a heart-pounding tale of a teenage Gran Turismo player, Jann Mardenborough, whose gaming skills led him to win a series of Nissan competitions, ultimately transforming him into a professional racecar driver.
Directed by Neill Blomkamp, with a screenplay by Jason Hall and Zach Baylin, the movie is based on the popular PlayStation Studios video game.
Produced by Doug Belgrad, Asad Qizilbash, Carter Swan, and Dana Brunetti, the film features an executive producer lineup of Kazunori Yamauchi, Herman Hulst, Jason Hall, and Matthew Hirsch.
The star-studded cast includes David Harbour, Orlando Bloom, Archie Madekwe, Darren Barnet, Geri Halliwell Horner, and Djimon Hounsou.
Set to race into Philippine cinemas in August, Gran Turismo is distributed by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Stay connected and join the excitement with the hashtag #GranTurismoMovie
“Mira is a very gentle character,” says Chopra Jonas. “I’ve played some very tough characters, so I was looking forward to tapping into my vulnerable side, reaching into the deep places in the heart. I’m a Cancer and a massive romantic – I really do believe in love and goodness. As cheesy as it might sound, it makes the world go around.”
Love Again tells the story of Mira Ray, a talented children’s book author and illustrator who deals with the loss of her fiancé by sending a series of romantic texts to his old cell phone number – without knowing that the number is currently being used by a different guy. Love Again, which also stars Sam Heughan and Celine Dion, opens exclusively in SM Cinemas on May 10.
“Priyanka has such a powerful presence,” says Jim Strouse, writer and director of the movie. “She’s the beating heart and soul of this film. You really feel what she feels.”
“Priyanka was one of the first people to read the script about two years ago,” says producer Esther Hornstein. “She’s such a strong person, and she made sure that her character wasn’t passive – that she’s in charge of her own life, figuring things out and doing it her own way. Priyanka also put such care to actually making sure that her character doesn’t feel like a stereotype, which is doubly important because I’m told that Love Again is the first global feature with an Indian woman in the lead role.”
Before meeting her magical match in Rob (played by Heughan), Chopra Jonas’s Mira Ray goes on a couple of dates that don’t pan out. And thanks to a fun casting choice, movie audiences get to see Chopra Jonas go on an epic fail movie date with her real-life husband, Nick Jonas, who plays a cameo role in the film. “We’ve done a few things before here and there, but never a full scene,” shares Jonas about his brief role. “It was a great, new experience for us.”
Love Again is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #LoveAgainMovie
The countdown starts now. In one month, the highly anticipated action-adventure “The Wandering Earth II,” prequel to the 2019 futuristic blockbuster “The Wandering Earth,” arrives in Philippine cinemas on May 31. Watch the trailer and embark on a riveting journey through space and time.
In the near future, after learning that the sun is rapidly burning out and will obliterate Earth in the process, humans build enormous engines to propel the planet to a new solar system, far out of reach of the sun’s fiery flares. However, the journey out into the universe is perilous, and humankind’s last shot at survival will depend on a group of young people brave enough to step up and execute a dangerous, life-or-death operation to save the earth.
Directed by Frant Gwo, with a screenplay by Frant Gwo and Gong Ge’er, “The Wandering Earth II” (a prequel to the 2019 futuristic blockbuster “The Wandering Earth”) is based on the book by Liu Cixin.
A Stellar Cast Brings the Story to Life
The film stars Andy Lau, Wu Jing, Li Xuejian, Sha Yi, Ning Li, Wang Zhi, and Zhu Yanmanzi. Led by a talented ensemble of actors, “The Wandering Earth II” promises to deliver breathtaking performances that will captivate audiences. With the likes of Andy Lau, Wu Jing, and Li Xuejian headlining the cast, moviegoers are in for a cinematic treat that will leave them on the edge of their seats.
A Prequel with a Purpose
As a prequel, “The Wandering Earth II” delves deeper into the backstory of the original film, providing movie enthusiasts with a richer understanding of the events leading up to the epic space odyssey. The narrative focuses on the characters’ motivations, the challenges they face, and the sacrifices they make for the greater good, making for a compelling tale that will resonate with fans of the first installment.
Not Just Another Sci-Fi Flick
The “Wandering Earth” franchise has managed to set itself apart from other sci-fi movies by successfully combining elements of action, adventure, and human drama. The result is a unique viewing experience that tugs at the heartstrings while also delivering mind-blowing visuals and adrenaline-pumping action sequences.
Get Ready for Takeoff
In cinemas on May 31, “The Wandering Earth II” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company. So, mark your calendars and prepare for a thrilling voyage through the cosmos that will leave you breathless and longing for more.
Get ready for a high-octane thrill ride as the new trailer for Transformers: Rise of the Beasts drops! This adrenaline-pumping adventure from Paramount Pictures is set to hit Philippine cinemas on June 7.
A ’90s Adventure with the Autobots
Witness the Autobots return to the action and spectacle that has captivated moviegoers across the globe. “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” takes you on a nostalgic ’90s journey, following the Autobots on a globetrotting adventure. But there’s a twist – they’ll be joined by a new breed of Transformer, the Maximals, as allies in their ongoing battle for Earth.
The Visionaries Behind the Scenes
Under the skilled direction of Steven Caple Jr., “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” promises to deliver a fresh and exciting take on the beloved franchise. With a screenplay by Joby Harold, Darnell Metayer, Josh Peters, Erich Hoeber, and Jon Hoeber, the film is based on Hasbro’s iconic Transformers™ Action Figures. Produced by Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Tom DeSanto, Don Murphy, Michael Bay, Mark Vahradian, and Duncan Henderson, it’s a powerhouse team bringing this exhilarating story to life.
An All-Star Cast Ready for Action
Featuring a stellar ensemble, “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” stars Anthony Ramos, Dominique Fishback, Tobe Nwigwe, Peter Cullen, Ron Perlman, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, Liza Koshy, John DiMaggio, David Sobolov, Michaela Jae Rodriguez, Pete Davidson, and Cristo Fernández.
Stay Connected with “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts”
As the Philippine distributor, Paramount Pictures brings “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” to local audiences through Columbia Pictures. Stay updated on the latest news and buzz by connecting with the hashtags #Transformers and #RiseOfTheBeasts, and by tagging @paramountpicsph.
For all the great filmmaking in Ben Affleck-directed ‘Air’ – from the exquisite tight shots and the deep dive into the zeitgeist of the 80s, as well as fantastic performances by Viola Davis and Chris Messina – there is something that is completely empty in the film that dramatizes probably one of the greatest sports deal in history. The movie is about the deal that partners up Nike with the basketball legend Michael Jordan. The 112-minute film is really just a pitch that a talent scout in the sports brand attempts to make with a very promising rookie back in 1984. The film benefits from everyone knowing the legacy of the legendary basketball player – even someone like me who is not familiar with basketball, even I know who Michael Jordan is – and are all aware of how much the sneaker industry makes a year.
Basically, we all come in knowing this is going to be a happy ending. So all the film has to do is to create the stakes and try to make it all fun to watch. Affleck goes full-on with his depiction of the 80s – the fashion, the production design, even the picture quality has that saturated 80s look – and it helps create that world. We are so steeped into it.
The story follows Matt Damon, who plays Sonny Vaccaro, who has to help Nike find an athlete to endorse their show, or they’ll have to close down their basketball division and focus just on their running shoes. In 1984, Nike was not the powerhouse that it was then and was only third to Adidas and Converse. They don’t have prime picks and Sonny must make magic or the whole division gets shut down.
Instead of spending their small budget on three mid-level players, Sonny insists on spending the whole budget on just one player: a rookie called Michael Jordan. And this is where the film fails to truly capture the imagination of the audience and proves that the film might be nothing more than an expensive, star-studded Nike commercial: the story, with a screenplay by Alex Convery, only creates one scene that shows us that Vaccaro has found THE player to endorse.
After watching one short clip from one of his games, Vaccaro is sure that Michael Jordan is going to be the greatest player ever. We know it. We saw it happen and it’s truly the stuff of legend. But the film relies on this and leaves the rest to our stock knowledge.
Sonny then spends the rest of the movie convincing everyone at Nike to put everything on this one rookie and then, later on, spends the second half convincing Jordan’s mother (played by a fantastic Viola Davis) that they should sign up with Nike. That’s it. That’s the whole movie – it’s a movie about a pitch, and a successful one at that – and while the movie tries to show us the stakes that was at play and the risk that so many people took – expressed beautifully in a scene between Damon’s Sonny Vaccaro and his co-worker Rob Strasser played by Jason Bateman – at the end of the day it’s a movie about a big million-dollar company making even more millions.
There is an attempt to put the importance in Michael Jordan’s legacy – that the deal Deloris Jordan, Michael Jordan’s mother, insists upon giving her son a huge amount of benefits that was unheard of at that period of time – but this doesn’t ring true because never once the film take the time to show us what a great player he is. We know it. The film knows we know it but by not giving any screen time to Jordan on the court everything becomes hearsay. Millions and millions of dollars and the jobs of so many people are at stake because this athlete is supposed to be worth it, and they never bother to show us this.
In fact, they never even show us Michael Jordan’s face. They get an actor, Damian Delano Young, to play the young Michael Jordan but they never show his face, shooting always at an off angle favoring Davis or Damon, and never letting him speak. If this story is about his greatness as an athlete, if the push was to show us that the skill and the promise of this young basketball player was enough to cause this much trouble, how come we never get to see him play or see his face?
No, what is given emphasis here is the money: how much were they willing to risk, and how much they were going to make. There’s no real character development here – Sonny Vaccaro, Rob Strasser, Deloris Jordan – they are exactly the same people when this movie started but they just ended up much richer. At the end of the film, they put down some facts about how much Air Jordans, the shoe that is at the center of the film, sold that year and the years to follow and how much Michael Jordan makes every year because of this deal – and it’s a lot – and, sure, it talks about how Deloris Jordan has opened up charities and gives back.
But it is a whole lot to do about money. They put so much emphasis on the possible loss of the basketball division but also mention that the company was already making so much in running shoes. They weren’t going to go bankrupt at all.
Yes, great performances – Viola Davis, Chris Messina, and even a wonderful cameo turn by Marlon Wayans – and some snappy dialogue and great camera work (though the music is so intrusive and overselling the 80s vibe way too much) but at the end of the day, it feels like a commercial or a product placement.
My Rating:
— Airis now showing in cinemas nationwide. Buy your tickets here
