Category: Movies

Tickets Now on Sale — “Wuthering Heights” Starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi Opens Valentine’s Day 2026

This Valentine’s season, romance turns darkly irresistible as “Wuthering Heights” storms into cinemas, led by Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi and written and directed by Emerald Fennell (Saltburn). Opening in Philippine cinemas on February 11, 2026, the film promises a love story that is as provocative as it is unforgettable.

“For me, the first time you see ‘Wuthering Heights’ should feel like this fever dream,” says Fennell in the newly released “Tickets on Sale” featurette, teasing the emotional intensity of her daring adaptation of Emily Brontë’s iconic novel.

Robbie, who stars as Cathy Earnshaw and also serves as producer, perfectly captures the film’s energy in just three words: “Twisted, provocative, romantic.” And judging by early glimpses, audiences are in for a gripping cinematic experience that refuses restraint.

Watch the “Tickets on Sale” Featurette here:

A Passion That Refuses to Behave

Set against the harsh, unforgiving moors, Wuthering Heights tells the story of a love that defies society, reason, and time itself. At its core is the volatile bond between Cathy Earnshaw and Heathcliff—two kindred spirits bound by obsession and longing, yet doomed by pride and circumstance.

Cathy, raised amid neglect and isolation, yearns for beauty, wealth, and recognition, yet remains fiercely loyal to the one constant in her life: Heathcliff. Their connection is intense and all-consuming, but when ambition and temptation enter the picture, love begins to fracture.

Years later, Heathcliff returns—changed, refined, and dangerously alluring—forcing Cathy to confront the consequences of the choices she once made. What follows is a tale where romance blurs into fixation, and devotion edges toward ruin.

Meet the Characters

Cathy Earnshaw (Margot Robbie)

Beautiful, mercurial, and fiercely proud, Cathy is a force of nature. Though drawn to material comfort and social standing, her deepest truth lies in her bond with Heathcliff—a love that guides her every reckless decision.

Heathcliff (Jacob Elordi)

Once an abandoned street orphan, Heathcliff grows into a brooding, resentful man marked by hardship and longing. His devotion to Cathy is unwavering, but time and rejection harden him into something far more dangerous.

Nelly (Hong Chau)

Clever and quietly dissatisfied, Nelly watches the destructive relationship unfold from within Wuthering Heights. As responsibility weighs heavier on her shoulders, her disapproval sharpens—and so does her desire for escape.

Edgar Linton (Shazad Latif)

Wealthy, composed, and impeccably proper, Edgar represents stability and privilege. His refined world proves a powerful temptation, not only for Cathy, but for a future that promises comfort over chaos.

Isabella Linton (Alison Oliver)

Innocent and indulged, Isabella lives a sheltered life of luxury. Welcoming Cathy with open arms, she soon finds herself caught between admiration, rivalry, and the dangerous pull of Heathcliff’s attention.

A Vision Backed by Award-Winning Talent

Produced by LuckyChap Entertainment and Lie Still, Wuthering Heights is guided by an exceptional creative team. Fennell reunites with cinematographer Linus Sandgren, production designer Suzie Davies, editor Victoria Boydell, and costume designer Jacqueline Durran. The film features an evocative score by Anthony Willis, with original songs by Charli xcx adding a modern edge.

The film also stars Martin Clunes and Ewan Mitchell, with Josey McNamara producing alongside Fennell and Robbie. Tom Ackerley and Sara Desmond serve as executive producers.

A Valentine’s Romance with Bite

From Warner Bros. Pictures and MRC comes a bold and original interpretation of one of literature’s most notorious love stories—where desire overwhelms reason, and passion leaves scars.

Catch “Wuthering Heights” in Philippine cinemas starting February 11, 2026. Tickets are now on sale.

February 5, 2026
MOVIE REVIEW: Nobody

I love a good underdog story. The Chinese animated film Nobody takes a familiar narrative trope – the bad guys pretending to be good, only to discover their own innate goodness along the way – and presents it as a hilarious fantasy adventure rendered in stunning 2D art that imitates the ink-wash painting style. The humor is so surprising, and the film’s character work is so detailed that, despite the protagonists being liars, bullies, and thieves, they still endear themselves to you and carry with them a universal characteristic: to go beyond what the social order has imposed upon them.

Yao are supernatural creatures that take the form of animals. They are called demons, they rob humans of food and belongings. Yao also have their own social order. Nobody follows two low-ranking yao of King’s Cave – Pig (Ziping Chen) and Toad (Yang Lu) – who work in the kitchen of the King’s Cave leader. Toad is happy having a job, but Pig desires more. He wants to be a powerful yao, rise through the ranks of King’s Cave, and become an enforcer.

But a hilarious mishap while cleaning dirty heirloom cauldrons leads to Pig and Toad being banished from King’s Cave. With no prospects ahead of them, Pig and Toad discover that the monk Tang Sanzang will soon be passing through the area on his way to seek powerful scriptures, along with Sun Wukong and other mighty warriors. Legend has it that any yao who eats Tang’s flesh will become immortal. Knowing that Sun Wukong could easily defeat any yao who tries to attack Tang, Pig and Toad decide to impersonate Tang and his group, hoping to beat them to the scriptures first, because whoever finds the scriptures would become powerful as well as immortal.

With the help of a weasel (Wenliang Dong) and a gorilla (Cong Liu), the four yao impersonate the famous Chinese heroes (immortalized by the novel Journey to the West) and embark on an adventure that uncovers the heroes within themselves.

Directed by Yu Shui and written by Yu Shui and Liu Jia, Nobody is a comic onslaught set within a fantasy adventure. The dynamic between Pig and Toad is reminiscent of many buddy films, with one being the more active and brash, while the other is more careful, cautious, and prefers the simpler, practical solution. Toad is often frustrated by Pig’s stubbornness and his penchant for getting them into danger, but he always returns. Their friendship is clear as day and serves as the emotional core of the story.

When weasel joins the group, he is a nonstop chatterbox that cannot stop talking – a source of many hilarious comics setups – while Gorilla is an extreme introvert who struggles to express himself and is prone to crying. From the get-go, we are introduced to four underdogs: yao who are truly at the bottom of the totem pole. They are so funny, and their relationships so well developed, that they quickly endear themselves to you, leaving you rooting for them to succeed.

The jokes are plenty and come in various styles – slapstick, witty banter, visual comedy, farce, and irony – and it translates well. As a fantasy adventure, we get to see quite a bit of fight scenes, and Nobody is unafraid to go over-the-top and truly explosive at the finale. It’s a careful buildup, so well executed that you don’t immediately realise how meticulous the script is in building up to its climax.

As an underdog story, what’s wonderful to watch here is the growth of Pig, Toad, Weasel, and Gorilla. It’s quite surprising that despite all the chaos and laughter that this film manages to evoke, it still manages to hit you at the center of your chest and leaves you with warm feeling inside. Much of the careful character work, often disguised as jokes, is actually setups that prepare you for the way by which the film turns 180 by the end of the second act. This is a film that can be enjoyed by both young and old (given that they are willing to read the subtitles).

Nobody was an extremely pleasant surprise for me, and I couldn’t believe how much fun I was having watching this movie. I’m not surprised it is the most successful 2D animated movie in China, and I’m so open to seeing more.

My Rating: 5 Stars

Big laughs, bigger heart. Nobody is a wildly entertaining animated surprise that deserves a big-screen watch. Check showtimes here.

February 5, 2026
NEW MOVIES THIS WEEK: Cold Storage, Nobody, Song Sung Blue, and More!

New Movie Wednesday is packed with eight fresh releases that span pulse-pounding thrills, heartfelt fantasy, animated adventures, music-driven stories, and must-see concert documentaries. This week’s lineup includes Cold Storage, Momo, Nobody, Song Sung Blue, Spring in Prague, Stray Kids: The dominATE Experience, The Informant, and Aqours Documentary. Whether you want edge-of-your-seat tension or a feel-good musical escape, this week has you covered.

Let’s check out what’s new on the big screen this week.

Cold Storage

2026 • R-16 • 1h 38m
COMEDY, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
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The night shift goes very wrong in this fast-paced sci-fi thriller with a wicked sense of humor. When a mutating and highly contagious fungus escapes from a sealed facility, two young employees are suddenly fighting for their lives. Enter a hardened bioterror operative who knows exactly how bad things can get.

With Joe Keery bringing nervous energy and Liam Neeson adding gravitas, Cold Storage blends sharp comedy with real stakes, turning workplace chaos into a race to save humanity.

Why watch it now? It’s a perfect mix of laughs, thrills, and Liam Neeson-level intensity.

Aqours Documentary

2026 • G • 1h 54m
DOCUMENTARY, MUSIC
GET SHOWTIMES

A decade-long journey captured on film.

This behind-the-scenes documentary chronicles the nine members of Aqours over ten years, from archival footage to intimate interviews leading up to their final solo concert. The film celebrates their growth, challenges, and shared triumphs.

Why watch it this week? Perfect for music fans who love seeing the real stories behind the performances.

Momo

2026 • • 1h 33m
ADVENTURE, DRAMA, FANTASY
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Time is running out, and only Momo can save it.

Young orphan Momo lives in the ruins of an old Roman amphitheater, loved by the neighborhood, until a corporation starts stealing everyone’s time. With Master Hora, the custodian of time, Momo faces a race against the clock to protect her world and the people she cares about.

Why watch it this week? A magical adventure for viewers who enjoy heartfelt stories with a touch of fantasy.

Nobody

2026 • PG • 1h 58m
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FANTASY
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From its playful premise to its vibrant animation, Nobody is a charming animated adventure. Little Pig Yao leaves Langlang Mountain to join a pilgrimage, facing strange trials and unexpected friendships along the way. Each challenge pushes the little monsters closer to discovering who they really are and what they want from life.

Funny, heartfelt, and visually engaging, this film delivers laughs while quietly asking big questions about dreams and identity.

Why catch it on the big screen? Because animated journeys are always richer when shared.

Song Sung Blue

2026 • PG • 2h 12m
DRAMA. MUSIC, ROMANCE
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Inspired by a true story, Song Sung Blue follows two struggling musicians who take a leap of faith by forming a Neil Diamond tribute band. What starts as a hustle becomes a joyful second chance at love, connection, and creative fulfillment.

Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson bring warmth and charm to a story that celebrates perseverance and the power of music to bring people together.

Why watch it now? Because it is never too late for a great comeback story.

Spring in Prague

2026 • PG • 1h 51m
COMEDY, ROMANCE
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Love crosses borders in this light and breezy romantic comedy. A young Czech woman travels to the Philippines and unexpectedly falls for a resort owner who later journeys to Prague to meet her world. Cultures collide, feelings grow, and romance unfolds across two beautiful countries.

Sweet, optimistic, and filled with travel-daydream energy, Spring in Prague is perfect for viewers craving a feel-good escape.

Why see it this week? Because romance always feels fresher with a passport involved.

Stray Kids: The dominATE Experience

2026 • PG • 2h 25m
DOCUMENTARY, MUSIC
GET SHOWTIMES

Fans are in for a cinematic treat as Stray Kids take over the big screen. This concert film captures highlights from their record-breaking world tour, pairing explosive live performances with behind-the-scenes footage and intimate interviews.

It is both a front-row concert experience and a personal look at the group’s journey, making it a must-watch for STAY and music fans alike.

Why watch it in cinemas? Because concerts feel bigger when the sound fills the room.

The Informant

2026 • R-13 • 1h 42m
ACTION, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
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Chaos and comedy collide in this Korean action romp. When informant Tae-bong is exposed during a smuggling operation, and unlucky detective Nam-hyuk blunders into the mess, the two are forced into an uneasy partnership. Their goal is simple in theory: recover what they lost and take down the criminals.

Fast, funny, and packed with misadventures, this is an action-comedy that thrives on mismatched allies.

Why catch it now? Because crime stories are more fun when nothing goes according to plan.

FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING

Missed last week’s releases? No worries, these crowd-pleasers are still packing theaters with action, laughs, and heart. Here’s what’s holding strong:

Mercy

2026 • R-13 • 1h 39m
ACTION, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
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Filmed for IMAX, experience it in 3D

Send Help

2026 • R-13 • 1h 53m
DARK COMEDY, HORROR, THRILLER
GET SHOWTIMES

We Bury the Dead

2026 • R-13 • 1h 35m
DRAMA, HORROR, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
GET SHOWTIMES

Crayon Shin-chan the Movie: Super Hot! The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers

2026 • PG • 1h 45m
HORROR,
GET SHOWTIMES
SHOWING EXCLUSIVELY AT ROBINSONS MOVIEWORLD

It Was Just an Accident

2026 • R-13 • 1h 43m
CRIME, DRAMA, THRILLER
GET SHOWTIMES

Image Source: Film Development Council of the Philippines FB Page

Resurrection

2026 • R-16 • 2h 40m
DRAMA, FANTASY, SCIENCE FICTION
GET SHOWTIMES

Image Source: Film Development Council of the Philippines FB Page

Sentimental Value

2026 • R-13 • 2h 13m
DRAMA
GET SHOWTIMES

Image Source: Film Development Council of the Philippines FB Page

Sound of Falling

2026 • R-18 • 2h 28m
DRAMA
GET SHOWTIMES

Image Source: Film Development Council of the Philippines FB Page

Selected titles will screen at Robinsons Movieworld, Ayala Malls Cinemas, Gateway Cineplex, Power Plant Cinema, Shangri-la Plaza Red Carpet Cinema, and Cinema 76.

Return to Silent Hill

2026 • R-16 • 1h 45m
DRAMA, FANTASY, HORROR, MYSTERY, ROMANCE
GET SHOWTIMES

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple

2026 • R-16 • 1h 49m
HORROR, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
GET SHOWTIMES
GET SHOWTIMES (2D/4DX)

The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants

2026 • PG • 1h 35m
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY
GET SHOWTIMES
GET SHOWTIMES (3D)

Plan Your Next Cinema Run

From high-stakes sci-fi and magical adventures to heartfelt dramas, romantic comedies, and must-watch music documentaries, this Wednesday brings variety, laughs, thrills, and emotion. Whether you’re planning a solo cinema break or a group movie night, this week’s new movies brings plenty of options worth seeing on the big screen. So tag your crew, grab that extra-buttered popcorn, and catch these must-see films.

Stay tuned for next week’s fresh batch of releases and updates. Keep ClickTheCity bookmarked for the latest showtimes, your next movie is a click away!

February 4, 2026
Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, and Halle Berry Lead the Gripping Crime Thriller “Crime 101” This February 18

High stakes rule the game, and every move comes at a price. This February, moviegoers can brace themselves for a gripping, edge-of-your-seat cinematic experience as Crime 101 opens in Philippine cinemas on February 18.

Featuring a remarkable ensemble cast led by Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Halle Berry, and Barry Keoghan, Crime 101 is adapted from Don Winslow’s celebrated novella and brought to life by writer-director Bart Layton. Stylish yet grounded, the film blends suspense, emotion, and character-driven storytelling into a powerful modern crime tale.

A City Built on Desire and Discontent

Known for exploring lives lived beyond society’s rules, Layton found a compelling backdrop for his latest project in Los Angeles—a city fueled by ambition and quiet desperation. In Crime 101 characters grapple with the need to prove their worth in a place where success is measured by what you own and how you appear.

“I felt like many of the characters are slightly trapped in that sense of ‘I’m never going to feel good about my place in the world unless I have this,’” Layton says. “L.A. is a place that really nurtures that sense of: if you want to really be somebody and feel like you are of value, you need to have all the external trappings of great success. I think status anxiety is a constant thing.”

That tension pulses throughout the film, shaping every decision and consequence.

Watch the Trailer here:

A Heist on the Edge of Perfection

At the center of the story is Davis (Chris Hemsworth), a highly skilled and elusive jewel thief whose crimes trace the stretch of the 101 freeway. Known for his precision and restraint, Davis prepares for what could be the most lucrative—and dangerous—job of his career.

His path intersects with Sharon Coombs (Halle Berry), a weary insurance broker whose profession revolves around protecting the priceless assets of Los Angeles’ elite. Disillusioned and standing at a turning point in her life, Sharon becomes entangled in a situation that threatens to unravel everything.

Closing in is Detective Lou Lubesnik (Mark Ruffalo), an LAPD investigator deeply affected by the unsolved freeway robberies. As his pursuit intensifies, the lives of Davis, Sharon, and Lou become tightly bound, setting the stage for a tense and unpredictable showdown.

A Modern Film with Classic Crime Roots

Layton drew inspiration from timeless heist and crime films such as Out of Sight, Thief, The Sting, and The Thomas Crown Affair. These influences shape Crime 101 into a movie that balances suspense with depth.

“They were grownup movies,” he says. “They had real characters and were kind of tonally not simply a comedy, a drama or a thriller. They had light and shade. I definitely thought it would be nice to remind people that those are still great experiences to have in the cinema.”

The result is a sleek yet thoughtful thriller that respects the genre while offering something refreshingly grounded.

Chris Hemsworth’s Nostalgic Return to Crime Drama

Chris Hemsworth was immediately drawn to the project’s throwback sensibility.

“I read the script and loved it because it felt like a real throwback to ‘90s thrillers,” Hemsworth says. “There was a sort of nostalgia to the story that you don’t see too much these days. I was a fan of Bart’s work and loved American Animals. It was a very character-driven drama with elaborate intersecting storylines. After our first meeting I thought not only has he written an incredibly compelling script, but he also has a brilliant vision for the film.”

Already a fan of Layton’s American Animals, Hemsworth praised the script’s layered storytelling and the director’s clear creative vision, describing the film as a deeply engaging, character-first drama.

A Film Fueled by Passion and Precision

Veteran producer Eric Fellner believes Crime 101 stands out because of the dedication behind every frame.

“I found it inspiring how good everybody was in the film, and that goes from in front of the camera to behind it,” Fellner says. “There is unbelievable production design, cinematography, costume, hair and makeup, editing, music—just every aspect.”

For him, the ultimate reward is seeing audiences connect.

“When you’re making something, the hope from a producer is that audiences will lean in, emotionally engage, and at the end breathe out a huge sigh of joy and go: ‘Wow, that was great.’”

Crime 101 promises sharp suspense, compelling performances, and a richly satisfying crime story when it opens in Philippine cinemas on February 18. Distributed locally by Columbia Pictures PH.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

February 4, 2026
Why “NOBODY” Is a Fun, Feel-Good Animated Film That Captures Hearts, Opens February 4

Nobody expects greatness from a pig, a toad, a weasel, and a gorilla—and that’s precisely where the magic of NOBODY begins. This delightful 2D animated film arrives in Philippine cinemas on February 4, offering audiences a feel-good cinematic experience filled with humor, heart, and stunning hand-drawn artistry.

Set in a whimsical, mystical world, NOBODY follows the adventure of four nameless little demons living quiet, unremarkable lives on Mount Langlang. When they step beyond what’s familiar, they’re swept into a fast-paced journey packed with danger, discovery, and surprising moments of self-realization. What unfolds is a story that proves heroism isn’t about status or strength—it’s about courage, connection, and heart.

Watch the Trailer here:

Lovable Misfits You’ll Instantly Root For

At the core of NOBODY are its four unforgettable leads. The pig, the toad, the weasel, and the gorilla may be underestimated by the world around them, but their individuality is what makes them shine. Each character brings distinct quirks, flaws, and comedic timing that fuel the film’s humor and emotional pull.

They aren’t mighty warriors or legendary figures. Instead, they rely on wit, grit, and determination to keep moving forward. Their mishaps are funny, their small wins feel earned, and their bond grows stronger with every obstacle. Through their shared journey, the film gently reminds viewers that being a “nobody” doesn’t mean being powerless—sometimes, being overlooked is exactly what allows true courage to emerge.

Hand-Drawn Animation With Timeless Appeal

Visually, NOBODY stands out with its lush 2D hand-drawn animation, enriched by watercolor-like textures and fluid motion. Early viewers and critics have praised the film’s artistic approach, which blends traditional animation techniques with the elegance of classic Chinese landscape painting.

The result is a world that feels alive and expressive, perfectly complementing the film’s playful yet mystical tone. By honoring its cultural influences while adding a modern, humorous twist, NOBODY creates an aesthetic that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly original—one that enhances every emotional beat of the story.

Where Humor Meets Heart

Beyond its laughs and visual charm, NOBODY carries a sincere emotional core. The four companions may be flawed and frequently underestimated, but their shared mischief gradually transforms into trust, purpose, and genuine friendship. What begins as a chaotic quest for recognition evolves into a meaningful exploration of bravery, shaped by failure, laughter, and loyalty.

The film’s heart is found in moments where humor gives way to tenderness, allowing its characters to grow without losing their playful spirit. Its soul lies in a simple yet powerful belief: kindness and courage can make anyone extraordinary. In this world, even those labeled as “nobodies” have stories worth celebrating.

Warm, funny, and unexpectedly touching, NOBODY invites audiences of all ages to laugh out loud and leave the cinema feeling uplifted. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the smallest heroes make the biggest impact.

Get to know more about the four nameless little demons of NOBODY and stay updated by following Encore Films Philippines on Facebook and Instagram @encorefilmsph.

February 3, 2026
It’s Game Time! Tickets Now on Sale for Sony Pictures Animation’s “GOAT”

The whistle has blown, and it’s officially roarball season! Sony Pictures Animation is bringing a fresh wave of animated fun to theaters with GOAT, an original action-comedy set in a vibrant, all-animal universe where sports dreams run wild and anything feels possible. The best news yet? Tickets are now available, and Filipino fans are invited to be part of the action.

Front and center is Caleb McLaughlin (Stranger Things), who voices Will—a small goat with a huge heart and even bigger ambitions. Will dreams of playing roarball at the professional level, and in a special video message, McLaughlin personally invites Pinoy audiences to head to cinemas and cheer for this unlikely hero.

An All-Star Cast Brings the Game to Life

Joining McLaughlin is an impressive lineup of voice talent led by Gabrielle Union (Bring It On, 10 Things I Hate About You) as Jett Fillmore, a roarball icon and the athlete Will looks up to the most. The film also features voices from Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton), Nick Kroll (Sing, Sausage Party), David Harbour (Stranger Things, Thunderbolts), and basketball superstar Stephen Curry, who also serves as one of the film’s producers.

With such a dynamic cast, GOAT delivers an energetic mix of comedy, sports spectacle, and heartfelt moments that feel both entertaining and genuinely uplifting.

Watch Caleb McLaughlin’s special invite to Filipino fans here:

A High-Energy Underdog Story with Heart

From Sony Pictures Animation—the studio behind Spider-Man™: Across the Spider-Verse—and the artists who made KPop Demon Hunters, GOAT tells the story of Will as he earns a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join the pros and compete in roarball. The sport is fast, physical, co-ed, and dominated by the biggest and fiercest animals around.

Naturally, Will’s new teammates aren’t convinced that a small goat belongs on their roster. Skepticism runs high, confidence is tested, and the pressure mounts. Still, fueled by passion and belief, Will sets out to challenge expectations, shake up the game, and prove that talent and heart matter just as much as size. Along the way, the film delivers laughs, thrills, and a powerful reminder that determination can change everything.

Showtime Details

Tickets are available now at local cinemas nationwide and through official cinema websites.

GOAT opens in Philippine cinemas on February 11 and locally distributed by Columbia Pictures PH.

Film Credits

Directed by: Tyree Dillihay
Co-Directed by: Adam Rosette
Produced by: Michelle Raimo Kouyate, Stephen Curry, Erick Peyton, Adam Rosenberg, Rodney Rothman
Executive Producers: Rick Mischel, Fonda Snyder

Voice Cast: Caleb McLaughlin, Gabrielle Union, Stephen Curry, Nicola Coughlan, Nick Kroll, David Harbour, Jenifer Lewis, Aaron Pierre, Patton Oswalt, Andrew Santino, Bobby Lee, Eduardo Franco, Sherry Cola, Jelly Roll, Jennifer Hudson

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

February 3, 2026
MOVIE REVIEW: It Was Just an Accident

Nominated for four Golden Globes and two Academy Awards, Jafar Panahi’s It Was Just an Accident is a politically charged thriller that is entertaining and insightful in so many ways. Part of the Film Development Council of the Philippines’ A Curation of World Cinema and screening in selected theaters around the city, I came into this movie not knowing a single thing about it. The film surprised me at every turn, delivering both a well-crafted thriller and powerful human moments that are equally dramatic and comic. It was a roller-coaster of emotions and it gave me a glimpse into the day-to-day world of Iran, a country I know very little about beyond what Western news has told me.

The film follows the story of Vahid (Vahid Mobasseri), an auto mechanic whose garage is visited late one night by a man with a prosthetic leg (Ebrahim Azizi) and his family, who have come to repair their car after hitting and killing a dog. Vahid is certain that the man is Eghbal, an Iranian soldier who tortured him in an Iranian prison, convinced by the sound that his prosthetic leg makes as he walks.

It Was Just an Accident Une Simpe Accident | (c) Les Films Pelleas

The next day, Vahid follows the man he thinks is Eghbal and kidnaps him to bury him in the desert. But unsure, he ends up gathering other survivors of the Iranian prisons who were also tortured by Eghbal. These include Shiva (Mariam Afshari), a photographer who is taking pre-wedding photos of Goli (Hadis Pakbaten) and Ali (Majid Panahi). Shiva also suspects Eghbal is their tormentor from his smell, though isn’t sure because they were blindfolded during interrogations and torture, while Goli, also a survivor of Eghbal’s torture, cannot be certain he is who they think he is. So, they then enlist the help of another inmate, Hamid (Mohammad Ali Elyasmehr).

It Was Just an Accident Une Simpe Accident | (c) Les Films Pelleas

In one van, six people – one drugged and unconscious – head to the Iranian desert to contemplate revenge, and what we see is a biting commentary on the horrors of authoritarianism.

It Was Just an Accident Une Simpe Accident | (c) Les Films Pelleas

The genius of Panahi’s film is how he manages the tone of the entire film. The four former prison mates are deadset in killing this man, but they are not sure if he is who they suspect him to be. There’s a moral line that is constantly being blurred. They feel justified in their extreme measures – drugging and kidnapping, and perhaps even murder if he is Eghbal – but until they are certain, they still operate within the bounds of societal morality. Each character is distinct and explosive, and every actor delivers an incredible performance, amplifying the reality of the situation that truly speaks about the social and political realities of the country. It’s devastating once you begin to really imagine what these characters have endured and what this means about the nation as a whole.

It Was Just an Accident Une Simpe Accident | (c) Les Films Pelleas

But what struck me the most is how Panahi leans into the absurd at times, creating humorous situations. Even the image of Goli and Ali, dressed in their wedding attire, jumping into a van with a man drugged, unconscious man in the back while contemplating murder is surreal and brings out so much laughter. Yet the humor also comes at a biting cost because we know and really feel how desperate Vahid, Shiva, Goli, and Hamid want some level of retribution.

It Was Just an Accident Une Simpe Accident | (c) Les Films Pelleas

What the film depicts is a broken society, shattered by an authoritarian regime, where people cannot move forward because the scars of the past hang fresh on their skins. It may not be evident but it’s there. And as the film’s drama unfolds, it becomes painfully obvious for us to see. This is an incredible film, and I think it’s the first Iranian film I’ve experienced. I’ve been told by my cinephile friends that this is the kind of work Panahi is known for, and I’m excited to see where else I can find his filmography.

My Rating: 5 Stars

Experience the gripping tension, dark humor, and moral complexity of Jafar Panahi’s It Was Just an Accident, now showing in select cinemas. Don’t miss this unforgettable Iranian thriller on the big screen.

February 3, 2026
MOVIE REVIEW: Sentimental Value

As part of the Film Development Council of the Philippines’ A Curation of World Cinema, Joachim Trier’s marvelous film Sentimental Value makes its way to selected cinemas around the metro. This stunning film won the Grand Prix at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival and has earned nine nominations at the upcoming Academy Awards – including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress (Renate Reinsve), Best Actor (Stellan Skarsgard), and Best Supporting Actress nods for Elle Fanning and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas; all of which are deservingly so.

A beautiful story of a family broken apart by generational trauma and a resistance to facing their own dysfunction, Sentimental Value never plays for the drama. Instead, it shows great restraint, completely capturing the textures and layers of this kind of family strife.

Sentimental Value | Renate Reinsve, Stellan Skarsgård | Photo: Kasper Tuxen Andersen

Interestingly enough, the film centers on a house, the family home of Gustav Berg (Skarsgard). Gustav is a film director, an alcoholic and absentee father to Nora (Reinsve) and Agnes (Lilleaas). Nora is an actress of some renown, but her personal life is a mess. She cannot seem to find love and is currently having an affair with a married man, who happens to be a co-worker.

Sentimental Value | Renate Reinsve and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas | Photo: Kasper Tuxen Andersen

Agnes is married and has a son, Erik (Oyvind Hesjedal Loven), but she too carries the weight of her father’s absence, and from having been cast in one of her father’s landmark films as a child. When the sisters’ mother dies, Gustav’s ex-wife, Gustav returns to their lives to reclaim the house they grew up in because that house belongs to him.

Sentimental Value | Øyvind Hesjedal Loven | Photo: Kasper Tuxen Andersen

While Agnes is more tolerant and accommodating towards her father, Nora is constantly butting heads with her father. He wants to direct a film set in their home, a story inspired by his mother who was tortured during the Nazi occupation and later took her own life in that very house; the suicide being the film’s climactic scene. He wants Nora to play the character of her grandmother but Nora refuses.

Sentimental Value | Stellan Skarsgård and Elle Fanning | Photo: Kasper Tuxen Andersen

To get the project going, Gustav chooses to go with the Hollywood star Rachel Kemp (Fanning), a decision that further strains his relationship with Nora. As Gustav and Rachel rehearse scenes inside the house, Nora spirals with her mental health and the looming prospect of losing the home to her father.

What is incredible about Trier and co-writer Eskil Vogt’s screenplay is how each of the four characters – Gustav, Nora, Agnes, and Rachel – are all primary characters with their own character arcs and emotional journeys. They intersect yet each feels like the lead of their own film, and it just so happens that everyone is part of the same film. There’s so much weight in these character’s struggles, along with the insights and their discoveries about themselves as they navigate the emotional turmoil of their interconnected relationships, makes Sentimental Value utterly arresting; I couldn’t take my eyes off it.

Sentimental Value | Stellan Skarsgård and Jesper Christensen | Photo: Kasper Tuxen Andersen

Trier and cinematographer Kasper Tuxen have a beautiful habit of capturing these characters at their most unguarded moments. The way by which they shoot the house allows the setting to be an important character in the film. That house becomes the metaphor for their dynamics and for what they mean to each other.

Sentimental Value | Stellan Skarsgård and Elle Fanning | Photo: Kasper Tuxen Andersen

But what really drives this film are the performances. Everyone is so good here – Skarsgard and Fanning are tremendous in their roles, playing off of each other and allowing each of their characters to be revealed in how they interact with each other – but I really took notice of Reinsve and Lilleaas in this film. Nora is a powder keg, always ready to burst. Her opening scene, a panic attack just before she goes on stage to perform. It’s a high-wire act of a performance and she nails it in her very first scene. She maintains this energy and unpredictability throughout the film, that she’s currently my favourite to win the Best Actress trophy.

Sentimental Value | Renate Reinsve | Photo: Kasper Tuxen Andersen

Contrasting her is the more mellow, more rational Agnes. Lilleaas has the toughest role because it’s the most subdued amongst the four primary characters, yet it is her warmth that serves as the foundation that allows the characters to feel their most human side. She is such a discovery for me.

Sentimental Value | Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas | Photo: Kasper Tuxen Andersen

I love these well-made, personal, and intimate slow films that explore human nature. Sentimental Value is a lyrical work, yet it remains grounded and rooted in very real family struggles. Sure, Gustav is a director and Nora is a great actress, they are not the most relatable people but the way they navigate through their issues with each other is so prevalent in any real powerful father-daughter dynamic. This film is so insightful, so tender, so heartbreaking. I am so glad that we get to see it on the big screen.

My Rating: 5 Stars

Don’t miss Sentimental Value on the big screen, experience this tender, heartbreaking, and unforgettable family story for yourself. Check showtimes at selected cinemas and let Joachim Trier’s masterpiece move you.

February 3, 2026
Squid Game Star Heo Sung-tae Leads in Korean Action-Comedy “The Informant,” Exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas February 4
Lights, Laughs, and Mayhem: The Informant Blasts Into Theaters February 4!

Ayala Malls Cinemas kicks off February with full-throttle excitement as The Informant, a high-stakes Korean action-comedy, takes over the big screen starting February 4—exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas under the A-Reel Asia banner.

At the helm of this adrenaline-pumped thrill ride is none other than Squid Game’s breakout villain Heo Sung-tae, this time showcasing his comedic chops in a wildly different and unforgettable lead role.

From Villain to Anti-Hero: Heo Sung-tae’s Action-Packed Return

Global audiences first met Heo Sung-tae as the chilling antagonist in Squid Game. But in The Informant, he flips the script, stepping into the shoes of Detective Oh Nam-hyuk, a former rising star in the police force whose life spirals after a mission goes catastrophically wrong.

Now desperate for redemption, Nam-hyuk devises a risky plan: plant an informant inside a notorious smuggling syndicate. But when things go haywire, he and his unlikely partner get swept into a chaotic conspiracy packed with explosive action, absurd twists, high-speed chases, and laugh-out-loud comedy.

An Award-Winning Crowd-Pleaser

Already creating buzz on the international stage, The Informant made its global debut as the Opening Film of the prestigious New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF). It also clinched the Best Foreign Language Film award at the Asia International Film Festival, proving it’s more than just a popcorn flick—it’s a critically acclaimed joyride that balances action with heart and humor.

Exclusively Through A-Reel Asia: Showcasing the Best of the Region

Presented through A-Reel Asia, Ayala Malls Cinemas’ signature showcase of premium Asian cinema, The Informant continues the platform’s mission to spotlight outstanding stories from across Asia. From South Korea and Japan to Indonesia, China, and India, A-Reel Asia brings Filipino audiences cinematic gems that deserve the spotlight—now made accessible through local screens.

Premium Viewing, Premium Experience

Audiences watching The Informant will enjoy Ayala Malls Cinemas’ refreshed state-of-the-art theaters, designed to amplify every thrilling moment. With immersive surround sound, crystal-clear premium projection, and ultra-comfy seating, every punch, pursuit, and perfectly timed joke lands with cinematic impact.

Where to Watch

Catch The Informant exclusively at these Ayala Malls Cinemas locations starting February 4:
- Glorietta 4
- Market! Market!
- Ayala Malls Feliz
- Fairview Terraces
- TriNoma
- Cloverleaf
- Marquee Mall
- Harbor Point
- Ayala Malls Manila Bay
- Ayala Malls Nuvali
- Ayala Malls Vermosa
Book your seats now at www.sureseats.com and follow @AyalaMallsCinemas on Facebook and Instagram for updates and future A-Reel Asia releases.

Get ready to laugh, cheer, and catch your breath—The Informant is the buddy-cop rollercoaster you didn’t know you needed!
February 2, 2026
Stephen Curry Brings Heart, Hustle, and Hoops Energy to Animated Film “GOAT”

Smalls Can Ball—and This Time, It’s Animated

Smalls can ball, and GOAT is ready to make that message loud and clear. The latest animated feature from Sony Pictures Animation, the studio behind the visually stunning Spider-Verse films and KPop Demon Hunters, delivers a fresh, feel-good sports story filled with humor, heart, and hustle.

At the center of the action is Will, a small goat with enormous dreams, voiced by Caleb McLaughlin. When he gets the once-in-a-lifetime chance to play professional roarball—a high-octane sport ruled by the biggest and fiercest animals—Will must prove that size doesn’t define skill, courage, or destiny.

Watch the Trailer here:

Stephen Curry’s Personal Connection to the Story

Four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry, who serves as a producer on GOAT, saw his own journey reflected in Will’s struggle.

“My journey resembles Will’s—being overlooked, underrated—but finding your self-confidence through it all. It’s about the power of the team.”

Beyond personal experience, Curry was drawn to the film’s message about teamwork and community.

“No matter what walk of life, you can’t do anything great without the people around you. It’s cool to bring that into ‘GOAT,’ knowing how relatable it is—not just to my story, but to everybody.”

Bringing Sports Culture to the Big Screen

Curry also wanted GOAT to feel authentic to sports culture, translating life on the court into animation. From stylish accessories and expressive fashion to a carefully curated soundtrack, the film captures the rhythm and personality of athletic life.

“We included the accessories, the clothes, a dope soundtrack–the cultural references that everybody can laugh at and appreciate,” he says. “This is a timeless story–if you watch it 20 years from now, you’ll go back to a moment in time. We’re super excited to have those relatable references throughout the entire movie.”

Why Underdog Stories Never Miss

For Caleb McLaughlin, Will’s journey resonates on a deeply human level.

“I think underdog stories hit people because we’ve all felt like underdogs at some point,” he says. “We all start from a low place and have to push through our own version of concrete. And when you finally reach a goal, you remember the moments you struggled, or wanted to give up, but didn’t.”

McLaughlin believes the film speaks to viewers when they need it most—right when doubt creeps in.

“People doubt you along the way, and I think audiences relate to that. These stories usually find people right at the moment they feel like quitting, and watching an underdog win reminds them to keep going.”

Inside the Wild World of Roarball

Roarball is no ordinary sport. Set across diverse environments—from tropical jungles to frozen tundras—the game allows animals to use every physical advantage they have.

“They can make use of all of their animal attributes,” says producer Michelle Raimo Kouyate. “They run on two paws, four paws, use their tails, horns, snouts, wings, tongues—anything goes.”

But with danger comes discrimination.

“In our world, there’s no difference between bigs and smalls as far as the culture is concerned,” says co-producer David Schulenburg. “But roarball is so dangerous—the pace, the terrains—the idea that a small goat would play the game is just unheard of.”

A Story About Dreams, Not Just Sports

For co-director Adam Rosette, GOAT goes beyond competition.

“It represents what it’s like to have a dream, not only what it’s like to play sports,” he says. “It’s about Will’s dream, which just happens to be becoming a pro roarball player. If you’ve ever had a dream—something that you aspire to be—this movie is for you. There’s heart, there’s hustle and humor.”

With humor, emotion, and relentless optimism, GOAT celebrates believing in yourself—even when no one else does.

Game Time This February

Get ready to cheer for the ultimate underdog. GOAT kicks off in Philippine cinemas on February 11, bringing a joyful, inspiring animated experience that proves heart matters more than size—and dreams are always worth chasing.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

January 30, 2026