Category: Movies

New Movies This Week — A Minecraft Movie, Locked, Rob1n, Seventeen Right Here World Tour in Cinemas, and More!

It’s that time of the week again—New Movie Wednesday! Get ready to enter the pixelated world of A Minecraft Movie, a fun-filled adventure starring Jason Momoa and Jack Black. For K-pop fans, Seventeen [Right Here] World Tour in Cinemas offers a front-row seat to the group’s epic performances. If gripping thrillers are your thing, Locked and Rob1n will keep you on the edge of your seat. Meanwhile, local cinema shines with Sinagtala and Gulay Lang, Manong!, bringing deeply moving stories to life. Looking for drama? Flat Girls tugs at the heartstrings, and Oshi no Ko: The Final Act delivers an anime mystery with a powerful emotional core. Grab your movie squad, load up on extra-buttered popcorn, and catch these must-watch films at a theater near you!

Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:

A Minecraft Movie

2025 • PG • 1 hr 40 mins
ADVENTURE, COMEDY, FAMILY, FANTASY
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Kicking things off is A Minecraft Movie, a family-friendly adventure-comedy-fantasy that’s straight out of your gaming dreams. Four misfits—Garrett “The Garbage Man” Garrison (Jason Momoa), Henry (Sebastian Eugene Hansen), Natalie (Emma Myers), and Dawn (Danielle Brooks)—get sucked into the Overworld, a wild, cubic realm where imagination rules. With crafting guru Steve (Jack Black) by their side, they fend off Piglins and Zombies on a quest to get home, rediscovering their creative spark.

It’s a pixel-perfect pick for kids, parents, or anyone who’s ever punched a tree in Minecraft. Can this crew craft their way back? Time to find out!

Flat Girls

2025 • R-13 • 2 hrs 9 mins
DRAMA, ROMANCE
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Next, we’re shifting gears to Flat Girls, a drama-romance that’s all about love, friendship, and growing up. This Thai gem centers on the bond between police daughters, tested by life’s messy twists and turns. Starring Fatima Dechawaleekul, Kirana Pipityakorn, and Pakorn Chatborirak, it’s a heartfelt story that promises to resonate with anyone who’s navigated the ups and downs of relationships.

If you’re in the mood for something tender yet real, this could be your pick. How will these sisters-in-arms weather the storm? It’s a quiet contender that might just steal your heart.

Gulay Lang, Manong!

2025 • R-18 • 1 hr 37 mins
DRAMA
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For a dose of drama with a twist, Gulay Lang, Manong! delivers a gripping tale. Farmer Pilo Sabado (Perry Dizon) teams up with cop SPO3 Ariel Lacson (Cedrick Juan) to save Pilo’s grandson Ricky (Ranzel Magpantay) from a cannabis trade mess. What starts as a deal—help catch the elusive Razer, and Ricky walks free—spirals into a moral maze when they uncover the trade’s surprising link to a senator’s daughter.

This one’s packed with tension and revelations. Will Pilo and Ariel choose justice over survival? It’s a thought-provoking ride you won’t want to miss.

Locked

2025 • R-13 • 1 hr 44 mins
HORROR, THRILLER
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Thriller fans, buckle up for Locked. When Eddie (Bill Skarsgård) breaks into a luxury SUV, he’s snared in a trap set by vigilante William (Anthony Hopkins). With no way out, Eddie’s in for a wild, deadly ride where survival is the only prize. Ashley Cartwright rounds out the cast in this horror-thriller that’s all about adrenaline and edge-of-your-seat suspense.

If you love a good cat-and-mouse game, this one’s got your name on it. Can Eddie outsmart his captor? Get ready for a heart-pounding night at the movies!

Oshi no Ko: The Final Act

2025 • PG • 2 hrs 8 mins
DRAMA, FANTASY, MUSIC, MYSTERY, THRILLER
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Oshi no Ko: The Final Act is here to dazzle. This drama-fantasy-music-mystery-thriller follows Goro (Kaito Sakurai), a gynecologist and idol stan, whose life takes a wild turn when his fave, Ai (Asuka Saitō), goes on hiatus. A bizarre bond forms, proving that in the idol world, lies are the ultimate weapon. Nagisa Saito adds to the intrigue in this genre-blending spectacle.

It’s a rollercoaster of emotions and twists—perfect for fans of J-pop and jaw-dropping plots. What secrets will unravel? Time to find out!

Rob1n

2025 • R-16 • 1 hr 32 mins
HORROR, THRILLER
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Meet Rob1n, a chilling thriller about a robotics expert (Maximillian Cherry) who builds a lifelike doll, Robin (Ethan Taylor), to cope with losing his son. Spoiler: Robin’s not here to play nice. With Gareth Tidball in the mix, this film turns grief into a terrifying tale of obsession and possession.

If creepy tech keeps you up at night, this one’s a must-see. Will Robin’s creator survive his own creation? It’s a haunting question worth exploring.

Seventeen [Right Here] World Tour in Cinemas

2025 • G • 2 hrs 11 mins
MUSIC
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Carats, this one’s for you—Seventeen [Right Here] World Tour in Cinemas brings the Goyang concert to life. Featuring S.Coups, Joshua, Hoshi, and the gang, this documentary-music hybrid showcases hits like “Fear,” “LOVE, MONEY, FAME (feat. DJ Khaled),” and “Ash.” You’ll get the full setlist, plus the charm of Seventeen’s Hip-hop, Performance, and Vocal Units in glorious detail.

It’s a front-row seat to K-Pop greatness—perfect for Carats and newbies alike. Ready to sing along? This is your chance!

Sinagtala

2025 • PG • 1 hr 44 mins
DRAMA, MUSICAL
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Wrapping up is Sinagtala, a drama-musical that hits all the right notes. The Sinagtala Band—once a tight-knit crew of dreamers—fell apart as life took its toll. Now, leader Paola (Rhian Ramos) fights to keep the music alive, even as death looms. With Arci Muñoz, Glaiza de Castro, Rayver Cruz, and Matt Lozano, it’s a symphony of regret, resilience, and redemption.

It’s a love letter to music and resilience. Can they heal old wounds? This one’s a tearjerker with a beat you’ll feel.

FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING

Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still playing in cinemas – catch them before they’re gone! Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:

My Love Will Make You Disappear

2025 • PG • 1 hr 44 mins
COMEDY, DRAMA, FANTASY, ROMANCE
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Snow White

2025 • PG • 1 hr 48 mins
FAMILY, FANTASY
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Captain America: Brave New World

2025 • PG • 1 hr 58 mins
ACTION, SCIENCE FICTION
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That’s it for this week’s must-watch movie lineup! Eight fantastic films hitting the cinemas this week. From Hollywood heavyweights to homegrown heroes, this week’s releases blend global flair with Pinoy pride. So, why wait for the weekend? Head to the theater—because nothing beats that big-screen magic. Don’t miss out—check our Movie Section for showtimes and snag your tickets today. Stay tuned for next week’s fresh releases and updates. Enjoy the movies!

April 2, 2025
“Locked”: A High-Octane Battle of Wits and Survival Hits Cinemas April 2
From the legendary producer Sam Raimi (Evil Dead, Drag Me to Hell) comes Locked, a pulse-pounding action-thriller that will have you gripping the edge of your seat. Starring Bill Skarsgård and Anthony Hopkins, this electrifying battle of wits and survival explodes onto the big screen nationwide on April 2.

The Story: When the Hunter Becomes the Hunted

Eddie (Bill Skarsgård) is a small-time thief looking for a big score. When he breaks into a luxurious SUV, he thinks he’s hit the jackpot—until he realizes he’s stepped into a twisted trap set by William (Anthony Hopkins), a sadistic vigilante with a ruthless sense of justice.

The car is no ordinary vehicle—it’s a prison on wheels, rigged with deadly contraptions that keep Eddie locked in. With William watching his every move, Eddie must summon every ounce of wit, grit, and cunning to escape. The clock is ticking, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

In this high-stakes game of survival, only one will make it out alive.

A Clash of Titans: Skarsgård vs. Hopkins

Two powerhouse actors take center stage in Locked, each known for bringing unforgettable villains to life.
- Bill Skarsgård, famous for his terrifying portrayal of Pennywise in It and the upcoming Nosferatu, transforms into Eddie—a desperate man caught in a merciless trap. His intense performance brings raw energy and determination to the screen.
- Anthony Hopkins, an acting legend with an Academy Award-winning legacy, delivers a chilling performance as William. Best known for his role as Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs, Hopkins taps into his dark genius once again, crafting a villain as terrifying as he is calculated.
Behind the Camera: The Vision of David Yarovesky

At the helm of Locked is David Yarovesky, the visionary director behind Brightburn and Nightbooks. Known for pushing the boundaries of genre storytelling, Yarovesky blends psychological horror with nail-biting action, making Locked an unrelenting thrill ride.

“Working with Bill and Anthony was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. They are two of the greatest living actors, each having brought to life some of the most iconic villains of all time,” Yarovesky shared in a stamement.

“Together, they are electric! I’m deeply grateful to both of them, as well as to Sam Raimi, for being such incredible creative partners and for trusting me to steer the ship.”

Mark Your Calendars: The Ultimate Thrill Ride Arrives April 2

With intense action, psychological mind games, and powerhouse performances, Locked is set to be one of the most gripping thrillers of the year.

Are you ready for the ride of your life? Catch Locked in theaters nationwide on April 2.
March 31, 2025
Award-Winning Film “Gulay Lang, Manong!” Returns to Ayala Malls Cinemas Starting April 2
Ayala Malls Cinemas is shining a well-deserved spotlight on Philippine cinema this April with the exclusive re-release of Gulay Lang, Manong!—a 2024 Cinemalaya entry that won hearts and took home the Audience Choice Award.

This gripping film, directed by BC Amparado in his feature debut, showcases a stellar cast led by Cedrick Juan, Perry Dizon, and BJ Forbes. Following its successful run at Cinemalaya, the film’s return to Ayala Malls Cinemas allows a broader audience to experience its compelling storytelling and masterful execution.

A Story of Struggle, Redemption, and Justice

Set against the backdrop of rural Philippines, Gulay Lang, Manong! follows Manong Pilo (Perry Dizon), a struggling farmer who unexpectedly teams up with Ariel Lacson (Cedrick Juan), a dedicated policeman, to rescue his kidnapped grandson Ricky (BJ Forbes). Their mission leads them to a dangerous marijuana cartel, forcing them to confront their values, resilience, and personal beliefs.

Watch the Official Trailer Here!

With its gripping narrative and heartfelt performances, the film delivers a mix of action, drama, and social commentary—making it a must-watch for Filipino movie lovers.

Where to Watch: Exclusive Cinemas & Screening Dates

Starting April 2, Gulay Lang, Manong! will be screening exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas in Metro Manila and key provincial locations:

Metro Manila Cinemas:
- Glorietta
- Market! Market!
- Ayala Malls Circuit
- Trinoma
- Ayala Malls Cloverleaf
Provincial Cinemas:
- Ayala Center Cebu / Central Bloc
- Capitol Central
- Centrio
- Abreeza Mall
- Ayala Malls Legazpi
- Marquee Mall
Each cinema guarantees an exceptional viewing experience with sharp laser projection, immersive Dolby Sound, and Dolby Atmos technology. To top it off, moviegoers can indulge in delicious snacks from The Movie Snackbar, offering flavored popcorn, sandwiches, burgers, and refreshing drinks.

A Commitment to Elevating Filipino Cinema

Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to be a champion of local storytelling, providing a platform for groundbreaking films that showcase the talent, culture, and depth of Filipino filmmakers.

Don’t miss the chance to catch Gulay Lang, Manong! on the big screen! Mark your calendars and experience this powerful film starting April 2 at an Ayala Malls Cinema near you.

Get your tickets now at Ayala Malls Cinemas or at ClickTheCity.
March 28, 2025
Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another” Drops Official Trailer – Starring Leonardo DiCaprio

Film lovers, get ready! The highly anticipated trailer for One Battle After Another, the latest epic from acclaimed writer-director Paul Thomas Anderson, has just been released. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Benicio Del Toro, Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor, and Chase Infiniti, this film promises an electrifying cinematic experience, In theaters September 24.

Watch the official trailer now:

One Battle After Another is produced by Paul Thomas Anderson, Adam Somner, and Sara Murphy, with Will Weiske serving as executive producer. Also featuring Wood Harris and Alana Haim, this powerhouse cast is set to deliver an unforgettable story.

Follow the journey with #OneBattleAfterAnother and get ready for a film that will leave you breathless.

March 28, 2025
‘My Love Will Make You Disappear’ Sparks Kilig and 12M Magic on Day One

Star Cinema’s My Love Will Make You Disappear landed in theaters yesterday, March 26, and it’s already making waves. With Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino in the lead, this rom-com hauled in P12 million on its first day across 380 cinemas nationwide—crowning it the top local film opener of 2025. If you’re craving a fun escape with a side of romance, here’s everything you need to know about this blockbuster!

A Rom-Com Recipe for Fun

Meet Sari, played by the one-and-only Kim Chiu. She’s got a wild theory: every guy she loves disappears—poof, gone! Then there’s Jolo, portrayed by Paulo Avelino, a landlord at Tahanan Homes who’s had it with heartbreak. When he hears about Sari’s “curse,” he thinks it’s his golden ticket—get her to fall for him, then vanish from his troubles. Spoiler alert: love doesn’t play by the rules, and what unfolds is a mix of laughs, swoons, and unexpected twists. Directed by Chad Vidanes, this film serves up romance with a side of comedy and a dash of mystery. It’s no wonder it’s already breaking records and winning over moviegoers!

Fans Can’t Stop Talking

The hype kicked off on premiere night, March 25, when My Love Will Make You Disappear climbed the trending charts on X. “KimPau chemistry is unreal!” one fan tweeted. “Laughed so hard, then cried—10/10!” another posted. From the witty lines to the feel-good ending, netizens are calling it a rom-com that hits all the right spots. If your group chat’s been quiet, this movie might just give you something to rave about!

Kim and Paulo’s on-screen magic—honed from past hits like Linlang and What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim?—is the secret sauce here. Their fans, aka “KimPau Nation,” are out in full force, and it’s easy to see why.

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A post shared by ABS-CBN Films, Star Cinema (@starcinema)

Surprise Cinema Visits

Opening day was next-level, thanks to Kim and Paulo pulling a fast one on fans. The duo crashed block screenings across the metro, thanking moviegoers in person and snapping selfies with lucky viewers. Picture this: you’re settling into your seat at SM Megamall, and suddenly Kim Chiu’s waving at you! Or Paulo Avelino’s thanking you for supporting their film! Star Cinema says 224 block screenings are set worldwide, so keep your eyes peeled—you might just get a star sighting with your ticket.

A Crew Full of Gems

Kim and Paulo shine bright, but the supporting cast is a total win. Melai Cantiveros delivers her trademark giggles, while Wilma Doesnt and Lovely Abella keep the energy up. Benj Manalo, Nico Antonio, and Migs Almendras add more laughs, and young stars like Karina Bautista, Jeremiah Lisbo, Atasha Franco, Kelsey Lasam, and Lucas Andalio bring extra sparkle. It’s a squad that feels like a big, fun family reunion!

What’s the Deal with the Story?

Here’s the scoop: Sari’s love life is a disappearing act—every crush she’s had vanishes, so she’s sworn off romance. Jolo, meanwhile, is drowning in heartbreak and desperate for an out. When their worlds collide, he bets on her curse to erase his pain—make her love him, then disappear. But as they tease and tumble into something real, the plan unravels. Will love stick around, or vanish like the rest? Hit the theater to see how it plays out!

This movie’s got all the makings of a hit—kilig that’ll make you blush, comedy that’ll crack you up, and a story that warms the heart. It’s perfect for a chill night out at Glorietta or a weekend plan with your besties at Power Plant Mall. Kim and Paulo lead the charge with charm to spare, and at P12 million on day one, it’s clear this one’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Where to Catch the Magic

It’s lighting up 380 cinemas nationwide—think SM Aura, Eastwood, or your local fave. Can’t squeeze it in this week? It’s going global starting March 28, hitting screens in Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and the UAE. Peek at our movie schedules, snag your tickets, and get ready for a feel-good ride!

A Promising Run Ahead

My Love Will Make You Disappear is more than a box-office champ—it’s a love letter to rom-com fans. Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino make every minute worth it, and with a cast this lively, it’s a party you don’t want to miss. As the romantic comedy continues to capture hearts, fans can follow Star Cinema’s official social media accounts for updates on screenings, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes moments. Have you seen My Love Will Make You Disappear? Share your thoughts and favorite moments in the comments!

March 27, 2025
First Date Turns Fatal: “Drop” Hits PH Cinemas on April 9

First dates are already nerve-wracking—but imagine getting cryptic, escalating threats from an anonymous stalker while trying to enjoy your meal. That’s exactly what happens in Drop, the upcoming mystery-thriller from Happy Death Day director Christopher Landon. Starring Meghann Fahy (The White Lotus Season 3) and Brandon Sklenar (It Ends with Us), this chilling new film is set to keep audiences at the edge of their seats when it hits Philippine cinemas on April 9.

A First Date Turned Deadly

Widowed mother Violet (Meghann Fahy) finally decides to reenter the dating world, agreeing to a dinner with a charming new suitor (Brandon Sklenar). But what starts as an ordinary night quickly spirals into a terrifying ordeal. She begins receiving unsettling, anonymous media drops on her phone—harmless at first, but soon escalating to threats against her son’s life. The final, blood-curdling message? Kill her date, or her son dies.

Trapped in the restaurant, Violet must unravel the mystery: who is behind these messages, and more importantly—how far is she willing to go to save her child?

Watch the Trailer Here:

Inspired by a Real-Life Horror

The chilling premise of Drop isn’t just fiction—it’s rooted in a real-life experience. Producer Cameron Fuller recalls a bizarre, unsettling event that happened while he was dining overseas:

“We’re at a beautiful dinner and we start receiving drops from someone in the restaurant,” Fuller says. “Over the course of the meal, they are getting progressively scarier. By the end, we thought we had figured out who it was, but we were never able to confirm it. That was the scariest part. We never knew who the sender of these drops was. And then we said, ‘maybe this should be a movie.’”

That eerie encounter became the foundation for Drop, which found its perfect director in Christopher Landon, the mastermind behind Freaky and Happy Death Day.

A Thriller with a Deeper Message

Beyond the suspense and psychological mind games, Drop also explores the themes of trauma and abuse—something deeply personal to Landon.

“I’ve had people very close to me who have been victims of abuse, specifically domestic abuse,” says Landon. “This was very personal to me, and something I wanted to handle delicately. But I also wanted to show that there is a path for people, a way out.”

With its mix of pulse-pounding tension and real-world emotional depth, Drop isn’t just a thriller—it’s a story about survival, resilience, and uncovering the truth.

Catch Drop in Cinemas This April!

Drop is set to hit Philippine theaters on April 9. Don’t miss this gripping, edge-of-your-seat thriller!

Stay updated by following Universal Pictures PH on: Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Get ready—this is one first date you won’t forget.

March 27, 2025
Death Returns: Watch the Bone-Chilling New Trailer for “Final Destination Bloodlines” – In Cinemas May 14
Death never takes a day off. And this time, it’s going back to where it all began. “Final Destination Bloodlines”—the chilling sixth installment of the globally successful horror franchise—arrives exclusively in cinemas on May 14, 2025.

Get a terrifying first look at the new chapter:

Watch the Trailer Here:

About “Final Destination Bloodlines”

A fate worse than death awaits. New Line Cinema’s latest horror thriller delves into Death’s sinister origins, revealing its merciless sense of justice in “Final Destination Bloodlines.”

Plagued by an eerie and violent recurring nightmare, college student Stefanie (Kaitlyn Santa Juana) returns home, desperate to uncover the truth that may save her family from the gruesome fate that looms ever closer. But can she break the cycle before it’s too late? Or has Death already claimed them all?

The film stars an exciting mix of fresh and familiar faces, including:
- Kaitlyn Santa Juana
- Teo Briones
- Richard Harmon (The 100)
- Owen Patrick Joyner
- Anna Lore
- Rya Kihlstedt
- Brec Bassinger
- The legendary Tony Todd (in one of his final performances)
A Powerhouse Horror Team Behind the Scenes

Directed by Adam Stein & Zach Lipovsky, the film is penned by Guy Busick & Lori Evans Taylor, based on a story by Jon Watts, Busick & Taylor. It continues the chilling legacy of the original series, created by Jeffrey Reddick.

The film’s production team includes industry veterans:
- Producers: Craig Perry, Sheila Hanahan Taylor, Jon Watts, Dianne McGunigle, Toby Emmerich
- Executive Producers: David Siegel, Warren Zide
- Cinematography: Christian Sebaldt
- Production Design: Rachel O’Toole
- Editing: Sabrina Pitre
- Music: Tim Wynn
Tony Todd

Experience Terror on the Big Screen

Get ready for edge-of-your-seat suspense and jaw-dropping death sequences as “Final Destination Bloodlines” screams into theaters and IMAX worldwide on May 14, 2025.

Will you escape Death’s grip? Or is your fate already sealed?

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”}
March 26, 2025
Movie Review — Hollow and Superficial, ‘Snow White’ Feels Undeserving of Rachel Zegler’s Star Power

From her film debut in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story to her bravura performance in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Rachel Zegler has the talent and screen presence to be a bona fide superstar. The young actress has range, spunk, and the vocal chops to deliver a classic Sondheim and Bernstein song splendidly. I have such respect for her that I find her underutilized in the overly busy live-action remake of Snow White. The movie is riddled with sentiments that have been played out in other films before and is overloaded with CGI that, at times, doesn’t look quite finished. For someone of Zegler’s talent, this feels beneath her—except when she sings one of the songs by Pasek and Paul.

All the narrative beats from the classic Disney cartoon are in this movie, but they have been expanded to include Snow White’s relationship with her parents and how she got her name in the first place. Her parents raised her to be a leader and to treat people with kindness, and it’s this upbringing that allows her stepmother to take over when Snow White’s father fails to return home after an investigation in the southern parts of their kingdom.

Rachel Zegler as Snow White in DISNEY’s live-action SNOW WHITE. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2024 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Snow White is then left to do chores, and she and the rest of the kingdom gradually forget she even exists (as expressed in one of the expository songs). The Evil Queen allows her to live as long as the magical mirror proclaims her to be the fairest of them all, but the moment Snow White awakens to the world’s harsh realities, the mirror finally declares her as the fairest. This prompts the Evil Queen to attempt to take her life.

Gal Gadot as Evil Queen in Disney’s live-action SNOW WHITE. Photo by Giles Keyte. © 2024 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

One of the more clever additions here is the idea that Snow White isn’t considered beautiful until she has woken up to the realities of the world. It’s an interesting contemporary reimagining of the story: that beauty is a concept that goes deeper than the skin. It should play well with the film’s push for a more politically-charged retelling of the story but director Marc Webb and screenwriter Erin Cressida Wilson can’t make this kingdom feel bigger than the tiny little town in the film’s opening. This world feels so small and spends more time trying to capture nostalgia rather than to amplify its new themes. It takes the most shallow and contrived examples of corruption and shows them at such a small scale that the urgency the film tries to push doesn’t seem quite true or authentic.

Rachel Zegler as Snow White in DISNEY’s live-action SNOW WHITE. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2024 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

What makes it even harder to sink into is the balance of the magical elements. There’s a mystical wood right beside Snow White’s castle with the seven dwarves who mine for gems that would make the Evil Queen turn feral, but never do we see her greedy schemes ever come near the dwarves or their bounty. So, when the dwarves agree to help Snow White, it feels unjustified.

(L-R) Gal Gadot as Evil Queen and Rachel Zegler as Snow White in Disney’s live-action SNOW WHITE. Photo by Giles Keyte. © 2024 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Zegler, as Snow White, is fierce and a powerhouse. There’s a humanity in her that makes the character work, though she struggles when performing alongside a fully CGI-created cast. She fares much better when sharing scenes with other live actors—or even, for some reason, CGI-Dopey. Gal Gadot, as the Evil Queen, is giving it her all. What I find unfortunate is that she doesn’t bring anything interesting to the portrayal of the Queen. It’s such a literal performance that it feels uninspired. I’m surprised that she sings quite well. Andrew Burnap plays Jonathan, a bandit who fights in the name of the true king and is the new love interest for Snow White. It’s a fluffy character that’s written to be charming and to bring him (and by association Snow White) closer to the people, which would be fine if the film interrogated and explored the weakness of monarchial system. But it doesn’t. It still presents the fact that princesses and kings are okay despite all this talk about “being for the people.” There’s a disconnect to the socially charged themes and in the setting never questioning the viability of a system that passes down authority by bloodline or marriage. It’s not ideal. Look at what happened with the Evil Queen.

(L-R) Jonathan (Andrew Burnap) and Snow White (Rachel Zegler) in Disney’s live-action SNOW WHITE. Photo by Giles Keyte. © 2024 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

In an attempt to infuse the film with politically charged plots, the film ended up showing how superficial it was in its adoption of these new themes. And when you consider the reimagining of Snow White’s loss of her kingdom, the live-action remake of ‘Cinderella’ by Kenneth Branagh does it much better. It’s practically the same circumstances but done with more heart and a scale befitting the story. In ‘Snow White,’ everything is super-sized but it doesn’t take the time to match it in scale and so it feels hollow and empty.

(L-R): Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen and Rachel Zegler as Snow White in Disney’s live-action SNOW WHITE. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2024 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

With the shoddy CGI – those dwarves are not enjoyable to watch at all – and the plot not giving us anything new, Zegler is working overtime in making the film worth watching. She is singing every song and trying to make every scene mean something more and while she’s doing great, everything around her is just falling short. Zegler deserves a better movie than this and the original cartoon should have just been left alone.

My Rating:

Snow White is now showing in cinemas! Ready for the magic? Catch it on the big screen—check showtimes and get your tickets here!

March 26, 2025
New Movies This Week — My Love Will Make You Disappear, Home Sweet Home, and More!

It’s Movie Wednesday, and that means a hot new batch of films is storming cinemas today, March 26, 2025! This week’s lineup is a total knockout—think a cursed romance that’ll keep you hooked, a cop’s insane battle against hellish forces, a rock concert that’ll shake your seats, a horror twist that’ll mess with your mind, and a family tale that’ll hit you right in the feels. We’re talking My Love Will Make You Disappear, Home Sweet Home, Imagine Dragons: Live From the Hollywood Bowl, Shadow of God, and The Unbreakable Boy—five fresh flicks dropping today to spice up your week. Ready to find your next big-screen obsession? Let’s roll the previews and get you hyped!

Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:

My Love Will Make You Disappear

2025 • PG • 1 hr 44 mins
COMEDY, DRAMA, FANTASY, ROMANCE
BUY TICKETS

What happens when you’re cursed to make every lover vanish into thin air? That’s the quirky predicament at the heart of My Love Will Make You Disappear, a delightful blend of comedy, drama, and romance that’s sure to tug at your heartstrings. Kim Chiu stars as a woman convinced she’s jinxed in love, crossing paths with Paulo Avelino’s troubled landlord as they team up to save their community from displacement. The chemistry between these two is electric, and with Wilma Doesnt adding her signature flair, this film brings laughs, swoons, and maybe a few misty-eyed moments.

The story’s charm lies in its relatable stakes—fighting for home and heart—wrapped in a playful “what if” scenario. Will Chiu’s character break the curse, or will Avelino disappear like the rest? It’s the kind of movie that’s perfect for a cozy date night or a solo treat-yourself outing.

Home Sweet Home

2025 • R-13 • 1 hr 32 mins
ACTION, FANTASY, HORROR, THRILLER
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Home Sweet Home is not your average night at the movies—it’s a full-on genre mashup of action, fantasy, horror, and thrills! Picture this: William Moseley plays Jake, a cop thrown into a bizarre alternate realm called “The Hindrance” after a mall shooting goes sideways. His mission? Save his wife, Prang (Urassaya Sperbund, aka Yaya), from an evil occultist named Mek (Michele Morrone) who’s hell-bent on unleashing chaos by opening the Gates of Hell. Oh, and he’s got a mysterious Novice Monk (Lee) as his sidekick. Talk about a Wednesday adrenaline rush!

This one’s for the thrill-seekers who love a good “save the world” plot with a supernatural twist. The international cast brings star power, and the stakes feel sky-high. Will Jake outsmart the clock and keep Hell’s gates shut? You’ll have to see it to find out—just don’t blame us if you’re checking under your bed afterward!

Imagine Dragons: Live From The Hollywood Bowl (with the LA Film Orchestra)

2025 • PG • 2 hrs 11 mins
CONCERT, MUSIC
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Imagine Dragons: Live From The Hollywood Bowl (with the LA Film Orchestra) is here to turn your movie night into a concert vibe. Filmed at the iconic Hollywood Bowl, this is the GRAMMY-winning band—Dan Reynolds, Wayne Sermon, and Ben McKee—at their explosive best, backed by over 50 musicians from the LA Film Orchestra. Expect their biggest hits like “Radioactive” and “Demons,” plus fresh chart-toppers, all woven with lush symphonic arrangements that’ll give you goosebumps.

This isn’t just a concert film; it’s a front-row seat to a once-in-a-lifetime show. The energy is infectious, the visuals are stunning, and the music? Pure fire. Whether you’re a die-hard Dragons fan or just love a good live performance, this one’s a treat for the ears and eyes. Pro tip: sing along quietly—your seatmates will thank you!

Shadow of God

2025 • R-16 • 1 hr 33 mins
HORROR
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Shadow of God takes horror to a whole new level with a premise that’ll keep you up at night. Mark O’Brien stars as an elite exorcist who’s secretly performing an exorcism on his own father (Shaun Johnston). But here’s the kicker: the entity he’s battling might not be a demon—it could be a holy being, maybe even God Himself. Jacqueline Byers rounds out the cast, adding depth to this chilling tale of faith, fear, and family.

This isn’t your typical jump-scare fest; it’s a slow-burn horror that messes with your head. What happens when the line between good and evil blurs? Perfect for fans who love a story that lingers long after the credits roll, Shadow of God is a bold pick for brave cinephiles. Just maybe keep the lights on when you get home, okay?

The Unbreakable Boy

2025 • PG • 1 hr 49 mins
DRAMA, FAMILY
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Need a feel-good cry? The Unbreakable Boy is your ticket to a heartwarming story about resilience and joy. Based on a true story, it follows Scott (Zachary Levi) and Teresa LeRette as they navigate life with their son Austin (Gavin Warren), who has autism and brittle bone disease. What starts as worry transforms into wonder as Austin’s unbreakable spirit and Scott’s growing faith show them—and us—that courage and gratitude can shine through anything. Jacob Laval adds extra sweetness to this family affair.

This drama is all about finding light in the tough stuff, making it a great watch for anyone who loves an uplifting tale. It’s the kind of movie that leaves you hugging your loved ones a little tighter. Bring tissues, and prepare to be inspired—Austin’s story is one you won’t forget.

FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING

Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still playing in cinemas – catch them before they’re gone! Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:

Snow White

2025 • PG • 1 hr 48 mins
FAMILY, FANTASY
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Eraserheads: Combo On The Run

2025 • PG • 1 hr 45 mins
DOCUMENTARY
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Novocaine

2025 • R-16 • 1 hr 49 mins
ACTION, COMEDY, THRILLER
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Lilim

2025 • R-16 • 1 hr 48 mins
DRAMA, HORROR, THRILLER
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Ne Zha 2

2025 • PG • 2 hrs 24 mins
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, FANTASY
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Mickey 17

2025 • R-16 • 2 hrs 18 mins
COMEDY, DRAMA, SCIENCE FICTION
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Captain America: Brave New World

2025 • PG • 1 hr 58 mins
ACTION, SCIENCE FICTION
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Let’s be real: picking just one of these movies is going to be tough! My Love Will Make You Disappear serves up romance with a quirky twist, while Home Sweet Home throws you into a wild, action-packed nightmare. Imagine Dragons: Live From The Hollywood Bowl is your concert fix, Shadow of God delivers spine-chilling suspense, and The Unbreakable Boy warms your soul. There’s something here for every mood, whether you’re solo or with your barkada.

What’s great about this week’s releases is how they mix global flair with local vibes. Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino bring Pinoy pride, while international stars like Michele Morrone and Zachary Levi add that Hollywood sparkle. Don’t miss out—check our Movie Section for showtimes and snag your tickets today. Stay tuned for next week’s fresh releases and updates. Enjoy the movies!

March 26, 2025
Must-Watch Movies About Women as Featured on the CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art

Filipino women, specifically those engaged in the arts, have been an unstoppable force since time immemorial. From female National Artists (i.e. Marilou Diaz-Abaya, Nora Aunor, Edith Tiempo, Salvacion Lim-Higgins, Francisca Reyes Aquino, Alice Reyes, Leonor Orosa Goquingco, Lucrecia Reyes-Urtula, Agnes Locsin, Lucrecia Kasilag, Jovita Fuentes, Andrea Veneracion, Honorata “Atang” dela Rama, Fides Cuyugan-Asensio, Daisy Avellana, Amelia Lapeña-Bonifacio) who made significant contributions to nation building and excelled in their respective fields, to today’s up-and-coming modern Filipina artists, they epitomize empowerment and gender equality.

In celebration of the National Women’s Month, the Cultural Center of the Philippines puts the spotlight on the treasured works by some of the best Filipino women filmmakers. Culled from CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Arts (CCP EPA), the country’s most authoritative and comprehensive source of arts and knowledge, here are some of must-watch classic films on women, for women, by women.

Amy Austria and Jay Ilagan in Brutal, 1980 (Cesar Hernando Collection)

BRUTAL (1980)

Directed by National Artist Marilou Diaz-Abaya | Screenplay by National Artist Ricky Lee

Monica Real became a suspect of the murder of her own husband, Tato, and two other men. While in jail, she refuses to speak and withdraws herself from the world until Clara, a bold journalist, dives deeper into her case and discovers a grotesque truth.

Brutal is the first Filipino film to address gender-based violence as a feminist issue within the context of Philippine patriarchal society. It is the first of the trilogy of movies about women made by Diaz-Abaya and Lee.

Lorna Tolentino, left, Sandy Andolong, Anna Marin, and Gina Alajar in Moral, 1982 (Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN Sagip Pelikula)

MORAL (1982)

Directed by National Artist Marilou Diaz-Abaya | Screenplay by National Artist Ricky Lee

Joey, Maritess, Slyvia, and Kathy are best friends who are exploring their lives hand in hand until the resistant demands of their own individual lives get ahead of them. As they struggle and realize the risks that they need to take, the four women go their separate ways, each indulging in their newfound individuality.

Phillip Salvador and Cecille Castillo in Karnal, 1983 (Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN Sagip Pelikula)

KARNAL (1983)

Directed by National Artist Marilou Diaz-Abaya | Screenplay by National Artist Ricky Lee

A couple, Puring and Narcing, settled in his hometown where she met Gusting, Narcing’s father. Gusting immediately takes interest in Puring after finding similarity to his then dead wife, which eventually led to family tension and tragedy.

Gina Alajar and Dennis Roldan in Salome, 1981 (Cesar Hernando Collection)

SALOME (1981)

Directed by Laurice Guillen | Screenplay by Ricky Lee

The film follows Salome, a married woman who fatally stabbed her persistent suitor. As the film progresses, three conflicting versions of the crime unfolds.

Sharmaine Arnaiz and Dante Rivero in Milagros, 1997 (Cesar Hernando Collection)

MILAGROS (1997)

Directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya | Screenplay by Rolando S. Tinio

A bar dancer who goes by Lagring has been hungry for her father’s love, but things took a turn after she found out that her beloved father had died and left her and her overbearing mother in debt. To her resolve, her father’s creditor with his three sons took her in as a maid. She found a type of belonging she could never get from her late father.

Scene from Madrasta, 1996 (Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN Sagip Pelikula)

MADRASTA (1996)

Directed by Olivia M. Lamasan | Screenplay by Ricky Lee and Olivia M. Lamasan

Mariel finds herself adapting to her new life as a wife when she married a single father with three children.

Mara Lopez in K’na, the Dreamweaver, 2014 (Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya and Ida Anita del Mundo)

K’NA THE DREAMWEAVER (2014)

Direction and Screenplay by Ida Anita Del Mundo

The film is set in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, where K’na, a T’boli princess, inherits the power of dreamweaving from her grandmother. In the community, dreams are visions bestowed by the abaca goddess to select T’boli women to interlace the fibers into the most exquisite patterns of t’nalak, a sacred fabric.

Sunday Beauty Queen, 2016 (Photo from Voyage Studios)

SUNDAY BEAUTY QUEEN (2016)

Directed by Baby Ruth Villarama | Produced by Chuck Gutierez

The documentary is dubbed as modern-day Cinderella story as it follows the everyday life of five female OFWs in Hong Kong, wherein one day each week, they are granted a moment of beauty, joy, and dignity in a local pageant.

Janine Gutierrez in Rae Red’s Babae at Baril, 2019 (Photo from Cignal Entertainment and Epicmedia Productions)

BABAE AT BARIL (2019)

Direction and Screenplay by Rae Red

A saleslady realizes the gravity of owning a gun when she finds one left on the street after seeing a man flee from a shooting near her house.

Photo from PBS, Frontline, and Sundance Institute

A THOUSAND CUTS (2020)

Direction and Screenplay by Ramona Diaz

The documentary follows Rappler co-founder Maria Ressa in her experience as a journalist who becomes a target of the administration while reporting on the war on drugs, extrajudicial killings, and the election.

The women portrayed in these films highlight the complexities of the female existence in different aspects of life. Their existence may be fictional in a sense, but their stories do exist and are actual realities of the women in our society.

CCP EPA

THE CCP EPA: OUR CULTURE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

Staying true to its mission of being a source of knowledge on Philippine arts and culture, some of the CCP EPA’s content are films that serve as catalysts for inclusivity and change, not only for women, but for society as a whole.

The CCP EPA provides over 5,000 articles and video excerpts from dances and musical performances straight from the CCP Archives. Its digital edition, the CCP EPAD, also contains the same 5,000 articles, and over 5,000 photos of the printed edition.

This collective and carefully sourced information is the legacy of the Center’s campaign to make art matter to every Filipino as we progress through this fast-paced, modern society.

Subscribe to the CCP EPAD through its official website epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph /encylopedia with rates from Php75 per month to Php675 per year. Email epa@culturalcenter.gov.ph to purchase a copy of the CCP EPA print edition and/or USB.

March 21, 2025