Category: Movies

  • Jenna Ortega Stars as an Artificial Friend in Taika Waititi’s “Klara and the Sun,” Coming Soon to PH Cinemas

    Jenna Ortega Stars as an Artificial Friend in Taika Waititi’s “Klara and the Sun,” Coming Soon to PH Cinemas

    Academy Award-winning filmmaker Taika Waititi brings a tender, luminous story of love, loss, and healing to the big screen with “Klara and the Sun”, coming soon to cinemas in the Philippines.

    Based on the bestselling novel by Nobel Prize-winning author Kazuo Ishiguro, the film stars Jenna Ortega as Klara, an Artificial Friend, or AF, who longs for one thing: to be chosen and welcomed into the right home.

    Watch the trailer here:

    A Story of Friendship, Wonder, and Healing

    In “Klara and the Sun,” Klara waits patiently for a family to bring her home. Bright-eyed and full of innocent wonder, she observes the world around her with quiet hope. Then she meets Josie, played by Mia Tharia, and the two instantly recognize something familiar in each other.

    Josie convinces her mother, portrayed by Amy Adams, to take Klara in. From there, an extraordinary bond begins to grow, one shaped by devotion, vulnerability, and the need to recover from painful loss.

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    As Klara enters Josie’s complicated world, her unwavering loyalty starts to bring warmth back into a family still carrying grief. Bit by bit, and with a heart full of hope, Klara becomes more than a companion. She becomes a light in the middle of uncertainty.

    Taika Waititi Brings Kazuo Ishiguro’s Beloved Novel to Life

    Known for his emotionally rich and imaginative storytelling, Taika Waititi writes and directs this adaptation of Ishiguro’s acclaimed novel. With its blend of futuristic ideas and deeply human emotions, “Klara and the Sun” explores what it means to love, to belong, and to see the beauty in someone else’s world.

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    The film features an impressive cast led by Jenna Ortega, Amy Adams, and Mia Tharia, alongside Aran Murphy, with Steve Buscemi and Natasha Lyonne.

    About “Klara and the Sun”

    Based on the bestselling novel from Nobel Prize-winner Kazuo Ishiguro and written and directed by Academy Award winner Taika Waititi of “Jojo Rabbit,” “Klara and the Sun” introduces audiences to Klara, an Artificial Friend who wants nothing more than to find the perfect home.

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    When Klara meets Josie, each immediately senses a kindred spirit in the other. Josie has a fraught relationship with her mother, and they have suffered great loss. Yet Klara’s innocent wonder and steadfast loyalty begin to heal the family and bring light to Josie’s complicated world.

    “Klara and the Sun” arrives in Philippine cinemas soon. Distributed locally by Columbia Pictures PH.

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    Film Details

    Directed by: Taika Waititi

    Screenplay by: Taika Waititi and Dahvi Waller

    Based on the book by: Kazuo Ishiguro

    Produced by: David Heyman, p.g.a., Garrett Basch, p.g.a., Taika Waititi, p.g.a.

    Executive Producers: Gary Barber, Alex G. Scott, Jeffrey Clifford, Rosie Alison, Kazuo Ishiguro

    Cast: Jenna Ortega, Amy Adams, Mia Tharia, Aran Murphy, with Steve Buscemi and Natasha Lyonne

    *Credits not final.

  • MOVIE REVIEW: Though a Little Tired and Old, ‘Toy Story 5’ Still Has That Charm and Warmth

    MOVIE REVIEW: Though a Little Tired and Old, ‘Toy Story 5’ Still Has That Charm and Warmth

    I am consistently surprised by how resilient, wonderful, and relevant the Toy Story franchise has remained over the years. As critics and audiences have said many times before, the creators realised the fans of the original movie have grown up and may now have children of their own. So the stories always reflected that of the first audience of the first film and reflected their own relationship with youth, play, and toys. I even enjoyed the fourth installment, despite it not being remembered as fondly. I felt that the story of Woody (Tom Hanks), and his realisation that he had to move on to other things, to pursue a different purpose separate from the one he fought so hard for in previous installments was such a fitting life lesson for me, when I watched it seven years ago; as a man who just turned forty.

    The fifth installment sidelines Woody and Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) to center its focus now on Jessie (Joan Cusack), the new sheriff of the children’s room. Having experienced being given away twice before – first by Emily and later by Andy as he outgrew his childhood – Jessie serves as the main protagonist of this story that directly deals with her trauma of being replaced. This time, however, the threat isn’t that their new owner, Bonnie, has outgrown them, at eight years old, she is still young enough to play. Instead, Jessie and the rest of the gang are being displaced by modern tech toys. Joining the franchise is Lily (Greta Lee), a sleek tablet short for “Lilypad”, who promises to help Bonnie make friends.

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    Toy Story 5 deals with the impersonal world of tech and the changing nature of social interactions, making a good case for how digital screens can arrest a child’s social development. This leaves Jessie fighting a battle on two fronts: first, for the emotional well-being of her child, Bonnie; and second, against her own unresolved issue of abandonment. Cusack is wonderful in the role, imbuing Jessie with an urgency. This heightened emotional tension is brilliantly articulated through both Cusack’s frantic voice acting and the animators’ incredible character design work and expressive animation.

    Toy Story 5 Bonnie

    However, director and writer Andrew Stanton (alongside co-writer Kenna Harris), doesn’t quite capture the same magic found in the previous installments, considering he co-wrote the first two films, the fourth, and wrote a draft of the story for the third. Despite knowing this material so well but somehow Stanton struggles with the movie’s first half, creating a heightened sense of drama when a subtler, more grounded approach might have eased us into the world more effectively. It feels as though Stanton and his team were overcompensating for switching the protagonist to Jessie and sidelining Buzz and Woody in this sequel.

    Once the story gets into full swing and the characters are fully established, the second half feels a lot more secure as the film’s emotional weight starts to carry through. Jessie finds herself at the home of Emily, her original owner. While Emily is no longer there, Jessie meets a new child alongside an older generation of tech, which beautifully deepens the ongoing toys-versus-tech debate. I am not surprised that Pixar and Disney chose to find a middle ground here. As someone who is inherently wary and cautious of technology, especially for children, I feel this balanced point-of-view to be the safe choice, though not necessarily the strongest one. But, of course, that is just my own prejudice talking.

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    Toy Story 5

    There is an undeniable predictability to Toy Story 5. While it still hits narrative beats that surprise us, the ending is signaled loud and clear; at a certain point, you can practically see Stanton, Harris, and Pixar steering the story toward the safer choice. What keeps the film interesting, however, is a gripping subplot involving a wrecked container filled with new versions of Buzz Lightyear toys. Serving as transitional sequences throughout the movie, this subplot delivers the most surprising plot insertion in the entire film. But before it reaches that point, it builds a sense of tension and mystery that keeps the movie’s energy running. That sort of energy could have also been afforded to Jessie’s storyline as well.

    Ultimately, while this is not the strongest entry in the franchise, it is still a good movie. It is charming and poignant that I even caught myself holding back tears. The classic Pixar magic still has that charm, but like the very first generation of children who watched the original ‘Toy Story’ as kids in 1995, this franchise is getting old. Five is a good number to end on.

    My Rating: 3.5 Stars

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    Toy Story 5 is still playing exclusively in theaters! Check showtimes and grab your tickets today to see Jessie take the reins in the gang’s latest battle against tech, then head back here and drop a comment to share your thoughts on the new sequel!

  • ‘Babaye sa Bubon,’ ‘Kundoktor’ Lead Winners at 9th Sine Negrense Film Festival Awards 

    ‘Babaye sa Bubon,’ ‘Kundoktor’ Lead Winners at 9th Sine Negrense Film Festival Awards 

    The 9th Sine Negrense: Negros Island Film Festival honored the region’s outstanding filmmakers and student storytellers during its Awarding Ceremony held on June 20, 2026, at the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol Social Hall.

    The festival showcased films from both the Open Competition and Inter-School categories, recognizing excellence in directing, acting, screenplay, cinematography, and other filmmaking disciplines. Festival screenings were conducted from December 3 to 6, 2025, at the Cinematheque Centre Negros.

    In the Open Competition Category, “Babaye sa Bubon” emerged as the festival’s top winner, earning the Best Film award along with a cash prize of P30,000. The film also garnered several major awards, including Best Director for Ginboy Bataclit, Best Actress for Jonah Sabijon, and Best Sound Design for Ry Cortez and Wenny Lord Bacabac.

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    The Jury Prize, accompanied by P20,000 in cash, was awarded to “Pagdumdom,” which also secured awards for Best Screenplay (Mhika Jhella Cenizal), Best Supporting Actress (Jing Torrecampo), and Best Actor (Jessiah Makilan).

    Other Open Category winners included Jade Clarence Susper for Best Cinematography for “Hilum,” Kyle Decana for Best Editing for “Handurawan,” Jehu Peria for Best Production Design for “Hilum,” Chaz Katalbas for Best Musical Score for “Kabay Pa,” and Johnwine Janipin for Best Supporting Actor for “Maria.”

    The award for Best Original Song went to “Kaisog sa Imo Makita,” written by Jabez Rees Gonzales and Angel Kay Dejaros for the film “Hilum.”

    Special Awards in the Open Category were presented to “Kabay Pa” for Best Trailer, “Pagdumdom” for Best Poster, and “Snatcher” for the People’s Choice Award.

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    Meanwhile, in the Inter-School Category, “Kundoktor” emerged as Best Film, receiving the top prize and P20,000 cash award. Its director, Joshua Pastora, also won Best Director and Best Screenplay honors.

    The Jury Prize, together with P10,000 in cash, was awarded to “Ngaa Tugnaw ang Gab-i.” The film also produced the category’s Best Actor, Paco Gloria, and earned Best Production Design for Kyle David Ebro.

    “Gugma sa Balod” dominated several technical awards, winning Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Musical Score, Best Sound Design, and Best Original Song. Khyle Anasta received multiple recognitions for his contributions to the film.

    Acting honors in the student category were awarded to Fourth Dillomes of “Isa Ka Higayon” as Best Supporting Actor, Jing Torrecampo of “Gugma sa Balod” as Best Supporting Actress, Wilma Larrazabal of “Isa Ka Higayon” as Best Actress, and Paco Gloria of “Ngaa Tugnaw ang Gab-i” as Best Actor.

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    Special Awards in the Inter-School Category went to “Hinangpanay” for both Best Trailer and Best Poster, while “Libod Para sa Handum” received the People’s Choice Award.

    The Inter-School Category was judged by filmmaker and “Love Child” director Jonathan Jurilla, Negros Director and Manager Candy Nagrampa, and film professor Jag Garcia, who served as jury chairman.

    The Open Competition jury was composed of Bakunawa Fest Festival Director Elvert Bañares, film critic and National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Committee on Cinema head Tito Valiente, and award-winning filmmaker Jeffrey Jeturian, who served as jury chairman.

    Serving as the guest and inspirational speaker during the awarding ceremony was Butch Ibañez, Chief Content Officer of Solar Studios, Inc. Addressing filmmakers, students, and festival supporters, Ibañez shared insights from his decades-long experience in the Philippine media and entertainment industry and encouraged aspiring storytellers to pursue excellence in filmmaking while remaining true to their unique voices and cultural roots. 

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    Festival organizers expressed their gratitude to the Film Development Council of the Philippines headed by Chairman Joey Reyes, Cinematheque Centre Negros, The Performance Laboratory Inc., The Negros Museum, and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts led by Chairman Dr. Eric B. Zerrudo for their continued support of regional filmmaking initiatives.

    The organizers also acknowledged the NCCA Committee on Cinema, former committee chair and Solar Studios Chief Content Officer Butch Ibañez, volunteers from the University of St. La Salle’s IWAG Image Makers Collective and the Maskara Theatre Ensemble, and the Province of Negros Occidental under Governor Eugenio Jose “Bong” V. Lacson and Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando P. Diaz II for helping make the event possible.

    Now on its ninth edition, the Sine Negrense: Negros Island Film Festival continues to serve as a platform for showcasing the talents of filmmakers across Negros Island and nurturing the next generation of regional storytellers.

  • BINI Joins DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” OST with New Song “A Parallel World”

    BINI Joins DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” OST with New Song “A Parallel World”

    BINI Brings P-pop Power to a Proudly Filipino Animated Adventure

    BINI is adding their signature P-pop sparkle to DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island.” The nation’s girl group has joined the film’s original soundtrack with their upcoming track “A Parallel World,” marking another exciting moment for Filipino music on the global entertainment stage.

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    Blooms were treated to a wonderful surprise at the start of BINI’s Signals World Tour, where the group performed a sneak peek of the song for the first time. Complete with special choreography, the performance gave fans an early taste of the vibrant sound and emotion that BINI is bringing to the film.

    Fans can watch BINI’s performance of “A Parallel World” on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

    A Soundtrack Filled with Filipino Talent

    The soundtrack of “Forgotten Island” brings together an impressive lineup of Filipino and Filipino-American artists. Alongside BINI, the film features SB19 with a cover of Francis Magalona’s “Mga Kababayan,” as well as Ruby Ibarra and Carl Angelo with “Salbahe Ako.”

    The star-studded roster also includes H.E.R., KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza, and Lea Salonga, making the soundtrack a heartfelt celebration of Filipino artistry, heritage, and sound.

    With each artist bringing something unique to the mix, the music of “Forgotten Island” is set to deepen the film’s emotional story while proudly spotlighting Filipino culture.

    A Magical Story of Friendship, Memory, and Growing Up

    At the center of “Forgotten Island” is an emotional story about lifelong best friends Jo and Raissa, who find themselves on one last extraordinary adventure before life pulls them in different directions.

    After discovering a mysterious portal, the two are transported to Nakali, a mythical island filled with magical beings inspired by Filipino folklore. Some are friendly, some are fearsome, and some may change the way Jo and Raissa see their friendship forever.

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    As they search for a way home, the best friends uncover a heartbreaking truth: returning to the real world may cost them the memories of their entire friendship. Suddenly, their journey becomes a race against time as they fight to hold on to the bond that shaped their lives.

    A DreamWorks Film with a Stellar Voice Cast

    DreamWorks Animation, the studio behind beloved stories of friendship in “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Shrek,” and “The Wild Robot,” brings another dazzling bond to the big screen with “Forgotten Island.”

    The film stars Grammy and Academy Award-winning artist H.E.R. and international star Liza Soberano as Jo and Raissa. Joining them in the all-star voice cast are Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Jenny Slate, Dave Franco, Ronny Chieng, and Tony-winning icon Lea Salonga as the dreaded Manananggal.

    Written and directed by Academy Award nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, and produced by Academy Award nominee Mark Swift, the film comes from the creative team behind “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.”

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    “Forgotten Island” Opens in PH Cinemas September 23

    Fantastical, emotional, and proudly rooted in Filipino culture, “Forgotten Island” invites audiences to rediscover the magic of friendship and the stories passed down through generations.

    Catch DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” in Philippine cinemas starting September 23.

    DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” is distributed by Universal Pictures PH.

  • MOVIE REVIEW: Luca Guadagnino’s ‘Queer’ Shines a Spotlight on the Sadness of the Gay Man

    MOVIE REVIEW: Luca Guadagnino’s ‘Queer’ Shines a Spotlight on the Sadness of the Gay Man

    I’m a huge Luca Guadagnino fan. I have always found his work to be visually stimulating while cutting through the complexities of human emotions. We see this in his in drama like Challengers or Call Me by Your Name. and even when h e filters intimacy through the lens of the paranormal or supernatural, like in Suspiria and Bones and All. There is a sensuality to his filmmaking that really gets my attention. Because of this, I am always eager to see what new thing he puts out, even if it is less than stellar, as was in the case with After the Hunt, which I still enjoyed but not as much as the others.

    Naturally, my anticipation for Queer was incredibly hight. When I saw it, I was completely unaware that the film was an adaptation of a William S. Burroughs novella. While I have previously read some of Burroughs’ essays and watched the film adaptation of Naked Lunch, which was based on his landmark novels, not realising the source material here left me entirely unprepared for the for the emotional coldness of the characters and the deeply trippy third act of the film.

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    (left) Daniel Craig as William Lee, (right) Drew Starkey as Eugene in Queer | Photo credit: A24

    Set in the 1950s Mexico City, Queer follows William Lee (Daniel Craig), an American expatriate who spends his days and nights drifting through bars and sleeping with younger men. His routine was disrupted when he meets Eugene Allerton (Drew Starkey), a. younger American expat and recently discharged serviceman. William quickly becomes infatuated with Allergen and follows him around, trying to get his affection. While the tow men form a bond, Allerton remains intentionally distant, insisting he does not view his own sexuality in the same “queer” light as William’s. In order to push their relationship further, the drug-addicted William convinces Allerton to join him on a journey search for a psychotropic plant that promises telepathic communication and a higher state of consciousness.

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    Queer | Photo credit: A24

    What is so striking about Queer is how Guadagnino alongside cinematographer Sayombhu Mukdeeprom and regular collaborators Trent Reznor and Atticus Rose working on the musical score, captures the profound loneliness of older gay men, particularly during that era. It is a time that offered them no recourse for building a traditional home or family. Ostracized and despised in their homeland, they often sought solace in foreign countries to enjoy the shield of anonymity, escaping the burden of bringing shame upon themselves or their families. On the surface, William lives vicariously, talks big, and projects an aura of sophistication at every turn; beneath it all, however, he is a lonely man. Guadagnino and his team are so precise in how they translate this internal desolation onto the screen for all of us to witness.

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    Daniel Craig as William Lee in Queer | Photo credit: A24

    Craig is incredible – throwing himself into the role with so much commitment that one completely forgets he ever played James Bond (and he is easily my personal favourite Bond). There is a palpable neediness to the way he looks at Drew Starkey’s Allerton, who does a solid job of standing on his own two feet opposite an acting powerhouse like Craig on the opposite side of the screen. The tension between them is electric, and continues to highlight the epidemic of loneliness that a forced relationship and mind-altering drugs appear to be the only recourse William has left to feel whole.

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    (left) Daniel Craig as William Lee, (right) Drew Starkey as Eugene in Queer | Photo credit: A24

    Watching Queer serves as a poignant reminder of how precarious a gay man’s life can be, even in the modern world. It explores how one can conflate sex with true emotional intimacy, and that sometimes, just being able to hold someone is a far more powerful act than a sexual one. The film’s incredible, hallucinogenic third-act trip that William and Allerton take becomes a metaphor for something deeply abstract – what a relationship needs to feel like for persecuted people like queer people are. Ultimately, this melding of bodies stands as a striking form of pure intimacy.

    It is a categorically sad film and a stark reminder of what it means to feel rejected and isolated from the rest of the world. Yet, despite its cold and distant nature, Queer remains a beautiful film. What I saw on the screen is a portent of a long, frightening life of being alone as a gay man. It is not a pretty picture, but then again, not all of art has to be. 

    My Rating: 3.5 Stars

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    What are your thoughts on Luca Guadagnino’s haunting new vision? Whether you caught the film or are just following Wanggo’s cinematic reviews, drop a comment to share your take on Daniel Craig’s fearless performance and this devastating portrait of isolation.


  • “Minions & Monsters” Tickets Now on Sale, Opens in PH Cinemas June 30

    “Minions & Monsters” Tickets Now on Sale, Opens in PH Cinemas June 30

    Banana-loving chaos is heading back to the big screen, and this time, the Minions are bringing monsters with them.

    Illumination’s beloved yellow troublemakers return in “Minions & Monsters,” a riotous new chapter in the studio’s animated universe. Opening in Philippine cinemas on June 30, the film introduces a different tribe of Minions, a fresh set of characters, and a wildly funny story about ambition, accidents, and the strange magic of early Hollywood.

    Tickets are now available, so moviegoers can already reserve their seats for what promises to be a loud, lovable, and monster-sized cinematic adventure.

    Watch the trailer for “Minions & Monsters” here:

    Lights, Camera, Minions!

    In “Minions & Monsters,” a new tribe of Minions sets out in search of a new evil boss. Naturally, their mission does not go exactly as planned. Their journey takes them to 1920s Hollywood, a place buzzing with invention, spectacle, and the irresistible pull of motion pictures.

    What begins as a hunt for villainy soon becomes something hilariously unexpected. The Minions discover movies, and with that discovery comes a brand-new dream: making their own monster movie.

    Set during a time when cinema was still being shaped, the film turns Hollywood’s early years into a playground for the Minions’ signature brand of physical comedy. With every stumble, scream, and spectacular mistake, “Minions & Monsters” celebrates the joy of filmmaking through characters who have always spoken best through action, expression, and pure comic timing.

    Pierre Coffin Takes the Director’s Chair

    Longtime franchise creative Pierre Coffin directs the film, marking his first solo directorial outing in the series. Coffin previously co-directed four films in the franchise and has been the unforgettable voice behind the Minions in every film.

    The idea for “Minions & Monsters” came from Illumination founder and CEO Chris Meledandri, whose pitch instantly clicked with Coffin.

    “Chris called me with the idea of a Minions movie about the Minions trying to make a monster movie,” Coffin says. “I loved it right away because it felt very funny and very true to them. The Minions are always trying to serve someone else’s dream, but this gave us a way to let them discover one of their own. We immediately thought that setting it in the 1920s made sense because cinema was still being invented. It was a world of instinct and physical comedy, which felt like the perfect place for the Minions to end up.”

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    A Minions Story Made for the Movies

    Once the concept was in motion, Coffin began shaping the screenplay with Brian Lynch, who wrote “Minions” and shares story credit on “Minions: The Rise of Gru.”

    For Lynch, collaborating with Coffin brought an extra layer of fun to the writing process.

    “I’ve worked with Pierre a lot, but this was the first time co-writing something with him,” Lynch says. “I loved it. We would bounce ideas off each other, and then send script pages back and forth, trying to make the other laugh. Plus, I got to write a Minions movie with the Minions as my co-writer. Who else can say that?”

    That playful spirit runs through the film’s DNA. Rather than simply placing the Minions in Hollywood, “Minions & Monsters” lets them crash into the earliest days of moviemaking, where instinct, performance, and imagination mattered most.

    A Love Letter to Cinema, Minion-Style

    For Meledandri, the movie is especially meaningful because of Coffin’s personal connection to the characters and to the story being told.

    “This is a very personal film for Pierre,” Meledandri says. “He has labored over every frame, and you can feel his love of cinema throughout the movie. I have always seen the film as a story about discovering the magic of making movies, told through characters who were almost made for silent cinema. The Minions have always communicated through performance and physical comedy, so placing them in that era allowed us to celebrate the birth of film in a way that felt completely natural to them.”

    Indeed, the Minions feel right at home in a world built on slapstick, spectacle, and visual storytelling. Without needing much explanation, they turn every scene into a gag, every plan into a disaster, and every disaster into something unexpectedly delightful.

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    Get Ready for Monster-Sized Mayhem

    With its 1920s Hollywood setting, playful monster-movie twist, and the return of the franchise’s endlessly lovable troublemakers, “Minions & Monsters” is set to bring big laughs to cinemas this June.

    Grab your friends, bring the whole family, and prepare for a hilarious adventure where the Minions do what they do best: cause trouble, chase a dream, and somehow save the day along the way.

    “Minions & Monsters” opens in Philippine cinemas on June 30. Tickets are out now. Visit your local cinema or check online ticketing platforms to book your seats.

    For more updates, follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, UniversalPicturesPH on Instagram, and UniversalPicsPH on TikTok.

  • Ayala Malls Cinemas Is Ready for Playtime as ‘Toy Story 5’ Comes to Life on the Big Screen, Now Showing

    Ayala Malls Cinemas Is Ready for Playtime as ‘Toy Story 5’ Comes to Life on the Big Screen, Now Showing

    Ayala Malls Cinemas is the home for fun family experiences as it showcases the latest chapter in a beloved franchise. Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 return for another big screen adventure, with toys meeting tech as shiny new tablets get kids hooked on screentime. Lilypad (voiced by Greta Lee), disrupts the peaceful life the toys have with their kid Bonnie, taking her attention away and changing what playtime is all about. Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and Joan Cusack lend their voices once more as Woody the sheriff, astronaut Buzz Lightyear and Jessie the cowgirl respectively.

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    Ayala Malls Cinemas is joining the celebration, welcoming families, longtime fans, and a new generation of moviegoers to experience the magic of Toy Story 5in premium comfort and state-of-the-art presentation. Years after the last film, Toy Story 5 is a chance for audiences to reconnect with a story that has been part of their lives for decades.

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    The Toy Story franchise was a childhood companion for many moviegoers, a film that grew alongside them throughout the years. Now, as Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the rest of the toys return to the big screen, Ayala Malls Cinemas offers the perfect setting to create new memories while revisiting old ones, bringing the film in exciting and immersive formats such as 4DX. To add to the experience, visit the Toy Story 5 activation at Glorietta activity center where kids and adults can experience both tech and play until June 21.

    While Ayala Malls Cinemas is known for its premium moviegoing experience, the true luxury lies in sharing the moment with the people who matter most. Whether it’s parents introducing Toy Story to their children for the first time, siblings reliving the films they grew up with, or friends gathering to celebrate a franchise that raised them, Toy Story 5 becomes both entertainment and a shared experience.

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    At Ayala Malls Cinemas, the premium experience goes beyond the screen, becoming about laughter shared across generations, friendships rekindled through familiar characters, and memories made together in the dark of a cinema as a beloved story unfolds once more.

    Toy Story 5 comes to life in Ayala Malls Cinemas, Now Showing.

  • New “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” Trailer Reveals Peter Parker Facing a Powerful Unseen Villain, Tickets Available Now

    New “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” Trailer Reveals Peter Parker Facing a Powerful Unseen Villain, Tickets Available Now

    The world may no longer remember Peter Parker, but Spider-Man is still watching over it.

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    A new trailer for “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” has been released, offering a thrilling glimpse at Tom Holland’s return as the beloved web-slinger. This time, Peter finds himself protecting a city where his identity has vanished from everyone’s memory, including the people who once knew him best.

    Still, even without recognition, Peter remains committed to the responsibility that has always defined him.

    Watch the Trailer Here:

    A Hero the World Has Forgotten

    In “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” Peter Parker is living a lonely new reality. With no one remembering who he is, he continues to fight crime full-time as Spider-Man while watching his old friends move forward without him.

    That emotional pressure begins to take a toll, sparking a change in Peter that he may not be able to control. Yet, as danger grows, that transformation could become the very thing that helps him face what is coming next.

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    A Powerful Threat No One Can See

    The new trailer also teases a shocking enemy unlike any Spider-Man has faced before. The city is threatened by a powerful villain no one can even see, raising the stakes for Peter as he struggles to protect the people he loves from an invisible danger.

    Caught between isolation, responsibility, and a mysterious new threat, Peter must once again prove what it means to be a hero, even when the world has forgotten the person behind the mask.

    Tom Holland Returns as Spider-Man

    Tom Holland reprises his role as Peter Parker, leading a cast that includes Zendaya, Sadie Sink, Jacob Batalon, Jon Bernthal, Tramell Tillman, Michael Mando, and Mark Ruffalo.

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    Swinging Into Philippine Cinemas This July

    “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” arrives in Philippine cinemas on July 29. Tickets are available now. Distributed locally by Columbia Pictures PH.

    Film Credits

    Directed by: Destin Daniel Cretton

    Written by: Chris McKenna, Erik Sommers, and Justin Kuritzkes

    Based on the Marvel Comic Book by: Stan Lee and Steve Ditko

    Produced by: Kevin Feige, p.g.a., Amy Pascal, p.g.a., Avi Arad, Rachel O’Connor, p.g.a.

    Executive Producers: Louis D’Esposito, David Cain

    Note: Credits not final.

  • NEW MOVIES THIS WEEK: Toy Story 5, Home Along Da Riles: Da Reunion, Hungry, and More!

    NEW MOVIES THIS WEEK: Toy Story 5, Home Along Da Riles: Da Reunion, Hungry, and More!

    Ready for your weekly big screen fix? The big screen is welcoming a fresh lineup packed with nostalgic favorites, emotional journeys, thought-provoking documentaries, and chilling horror stories. Leading this week’s releases is Toy Story 5, bringing Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the gang back for another adventure filled with heart, humor, and new challenges. Also arriving in cinemas are meaningful stories about family, love, and connection, including Home Along Da Riles: Da Reunion and All the Things I Leave You (Patawid). Documentary fans can explore the inspiring journey of 10s Across the Borders, while horror lovers can choose from unsettling titles like Hungry, Saccharine, Tigers Are Not Afraid, and Voice Message. From animated adventures to emotional reunions and supernatural scares, this week’s movie lineup offers something for every kind of moviegoer.

    Here are the new movies opening in cinemas this week.

    New Movies June 17, 2026 Toy Story 5, Hungry

    Toy Story 5

    2026 • G • 1h 41m
    ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY
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    Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the rest of the gang are back for another unforgettable chapter. When Bonnie receives a new Lilypad tablet and becomes obsessed with the device, the toys face their biggest challenge yet. As technology changes the way kids play, the beloved characters must find a way to protect the magic of imagination. Can they remind Bonnie of the joy of imagination before they are forgotten in the closet?

    With its signature mix of comedy, adventure, and heartfelt moments, Toy Story 5 continues the legacy of one of animation’s most beloved franchises.

    10s Across the Borders

    2026 • R-16 • 1h 39m
    DOCUMENTARY
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    This inspiring documentary traces the power of self-expression and community. Inspired by the legendary Black and Latinx underground Ballroom culture of New York City, trailblazers Sun, Teddy, and Xyza set out to create vibrant Ballroom communities across Southeast Asia. The film showcases these spaces as crucial safe havens from homophobia, transphobia, and stigma. It is a beautifully loud celebration of finding your family and dancing to your own rhythm.

    All the Things I Leave You (Patawid)

    2026 • PG • 2h 42m
    COMEDY, ROMANCE
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    Set against the beautiful backdrop of Ilocos, this quiet and deeply moving romance follows a privileged young man named Jorge. Forced to work at his family’s restaurant alongside a street-smart newcomer named Kiko, their friction turns into connection after a family tragedy. When they uncover a hidden cigar box filled with unsent letters belonging to Jorge’s grandfather, they piece together a decades-old secret love story shaped by migration and sacrifice.

    Home Along Da Riles: Da Reunion

    2026 • PG • 1h 40m
    COMEDY, DRAMA, FAMILY
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    The ultimate tribute to classic Pinoy television arrives with the long-awaited gathering of the Cosme family. Emotion runs high when Bing surprises her brothers with an unexpected marriage announcement. Still guided by the protective spirit of their late father, Kevin Cosme, the brothers put the new fiancé through a series of hilarious and demanding challenges. Meanwhile, Tita Nanay Ason quietly navigates her own emotional journey of love and memory. It is a beautiful celebration of family ties that will make you laugh and cry in equal measure.

    Hungry

    2026 • PG • 1h 32m
    HORROR, THRILLER
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    You have seen sharks and crocodiles, but the Louisiana swamplands are introducing a completely different kind of apex predator. A group of holidaymakers gets lost in the dense marshes and finds themselves hunted by a rampaging, hyper-aggressive hippopotamus on the loose. It is a fast-paced thriller that turns a peaceful vacation into a frantic battle for survival. Who knew a herbivore could be this terrifying?

    Saccharine

    2026 • R-16 • 1h 45m
    HORROR
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    Diet trends can be bizarre, but this psychological horror film takes obsession to a genuinely unhinged level. Hana, a lonely medical student, succumbs to an obscure weight-loss craze that involves consuming human ashes. The physical transformation comes at a supernatural cost when she finds herself actively haunted by the furious ghost of the person she is eating. It is a gripping look at modern vanity and its darkest consequences.

    Tigers Are Not Afraid

    2026 • R-13 • 1h 23m
    FANTASY, HORROR
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    Blending dark fantasy with gritty realism, this acclaimed feature follows a young girl named Estrella. When her mother suddenly vanishes in a haunted city, Estrella is forced onto the streets where she joins a tight-knit gang of orphaned children. Together, they navigate a dangerous world of local cartels and supernatural manifestations that protect and terrify them all at once.

    Voice Message

    2026 • R-16 • 1h 28m
    HORROR, THRILLER
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    Seeking answers about a devastating family tragedy, Naya discovers a haunting connection through her sister Anna’s final voice note. As she listens repeatedly, the digital bond deepens, but it also opens a doorway for an ancient demonic force. Soon, Naya and her brother Luka are pulled into a terrifying supernatural trap. Will they find a way to silence the message before it claims their souls?

    What’s On Your Movie List This Week?

    From the return of beloved characters in Toy Story 5 to emotional family stories like Home Along Da Riles Da Reunion, this week’s releases bring a mix of nostalgia, heart, and thrills to cinemas.

    Whether you’re planning a family movie day, a fun night out with your barkada, or a suspense-filled screening, this week has plenty of new movies waiting on the big screen. So grab your favorite snacks, round up your friends, and secure your tickets now.

    Keep ClickTheCity Movies bookmarked for the latest showtimes, your next movie is a click away. Stay tuned for more movie buzz, and happy watching! 

  • Watch the Hilarious First Trailer for ‘Shrek 5,’ Coming to Philippine Cinemas in 2027

    Watch the Hilarious First Trailer for ‘Shrek 5,’ Coming to Philippine Cinemas in 2027

    The swamp’s favorite family is making a long-awaited return!

    Shrek5 1

    DreamWorks Animation has unveiled the first trailer for Shrek 5, bringing back the beloved characters that have entertained audiences for generations. Packed with laughs, familiar faces, and exciting new additions, the upcoming animated adventure reunites Shrek, Donkey, Fiona, and the rest of the gang for another unforgettable journey.

    Returning to voice their iconic roles are Mike Myers as Shrek, Eddie Murphy as Donkey, and Cameron Diaz as Princess Fiona. Joining the franchise is Emmy Award-winning star Zendaya, who lends her voice to Felicia, the daughter of Shrek and Fiona. Meanwhile, Marcello Hernandez and Skyler Gisondo voice Felicia’s brothers, Fergus and Farkle.

    Watch the first trailer for Shrek 5 here:

    A New Adventure Awaits

    Years after audiences last visited Far Far Away, Shrek 5 promises a fresh chapter filled with the charm, humor, and heart that made the franchise a global phenomenon. Alongside its returning fan favorites, the film introduces a new generation of characters, setting the stage for more magical mischief and hilarious moments.

    Excitingly, the first trailer offers a glimpse of the family dynamics between Shrek, Fiona, and their children, while teasing the comedic adventures that lie ahead.

    Familiar Voices Return to the Swamp

    The film marks the highly anticipated return of comedy legends Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz, whose performances helped make the original Shrek films cultural landmarks.

    Shrek5 2

    Adding even more star power to the cast is Zendaya, known for her acclaimed performances in Dune and The Odyssey. Her role as Felicia introduces a new perspective to the beloved franchise while maintaining the playful spirit fans have come to love.

    Created by Shrek Veterans

    Behind the scenes, Shrek 5 is guided by filmmakers with deep roots in the franchise.

    The film is directed by Conrad Vernon and Walt Dohrn, both longtime creative contributors to the Shrek universe. Vernon previously worked on Shrek 2, Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted, and Monsters vs. Aliens, while also voicing the fan-favorite Gingerbread Man, “Gingy,” throughout the series.

    Dohrn has been involved with the franchise since Shrek 2, serving as a writer, artist, and Head of Story across multiple installments. Fans may also remember him as the voice of Rumpelstiltskin in Shrek Forever After. Beyond the swamp, he has directed Trolls World Tour and Trolls Band Together.

    The film is co-directed by Brad Ableson, whose credits include Minions: The Rise of Gru and The Simpsons.

    Shrek5 3

    Bringing the Magic Back

    Produced by Gina Shay, who previously produced Shrek Forever After, and Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri, the creative team behind Shrek 5 brings together decades of animation experience from some of the industry’s most successful franchises, including Despicable Me, Minions, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, and Trolls.

    With its beloved cast, fresh characters, and a new adventure on the horizon, Shrek 5 is shaping up to be a must-watch family event when it arrives in Philippine cinemas in 2027.

    For the latest updates, follow Universal Pictures Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.