Category: Movies

  • “Hello, Love, Again” Smashes Records, Breaking Into US Box-Office Top 10 with $2.4 Million Opening

    “Hello, Love, Again” Smashes Records, Breaking Into US Box-Office Top 10 with $2.4 Million Opening

    Filipino cinema has made another breakthrough as “Hello, Love, Again”—a collaboration between ABS-CBN’s Star Cinema and GMA Pictures—soars into the U.S. box-office Top 10, grossing over $2.4 million during its debut weekend across 248 sites.

    HLA poster

    A Historic Milestone for Filipino Films

    Debuting at No. 8 in the U.S. box-office rankings, “Hello, Love, Again” is a testament to the global appeal of Filipino storytelling. It also set the record for the highest theater average over the weekend, earning an impressive $9,700 per site.

    The excitement doesn’t end there. Domestically, the movie shattered records with a massive ₱85 million opening day gross, the highest for a Filipino film. Within just three days, the romantic drama achieved a jaw-dropping ₱245 million, including a single-day high of ₱90 million in ticket sales.

    HLA US box office artcard

    Worldwide Screenings Expand

    Directed by the celebrated Cathy Garcia-Sampana, “Hello, Love, Again” continues its global run in 1,000 cinemas worldwide, spanning countries like the U.S., Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Guam, and Saipan. Fans in Singapore, Malaysia, the Middle East, Cambodia, and Hong Kong can also look forward to its premiere this month.

    The Story Behind the Success

    “Hello, Love, Again” tells the heartfelt story of Ethan and Joy, played by Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards, whose love endures despite time and distance. Separated by life’s twists—Ethan pursuing dreams in Hong Kong and Joy building a new life in Canada—their love faces its toughest tests. Years later, fate brings them back together, rekindling emotions, exploring the changes in their lives, and rediscovering their bond.

    This tale of love, resilience, and second chances resonates with audiences worldwide, proving that some connections are truly timeless.

    Don’t Miss This Cinematic Event

    Catch “Hello, Love, Again” in theaters now! Stay updated with Star Cinema on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) for the latest news and updates.

  • Aaron Taylor-Johnson Transforms Into Marvel’s Fiercest Anti-Hero in “Kraven the Hunter”

    Aaron Taylor-Johnson Transforms Into Marvel’s Fiercest Anti-Hero in “Kraven the Hunter”

    The wait is almost over for Marvel fans! Sergei Kravinoff—better known as Kraven the Hunter —is finally making his big-screen debut. Actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson dives deep into the making of this complex character in an all-new behind-the-scenes vignette titled “Making of a Villain.”

    “This is Sergei Kravinoff becoming Kraven,” Taylor-Johnson shares as he reveals the grueling process of preparing for the role. From barefoot sprints across London’s cobblestone streets to gravity-defying wall flips, the actor’s commitment to bringing Kraven to life is unparalleled.

    “I’m so lucky I get to do the stunts. Old school, real, raw, barefoot running through the streets of London. Doing flips and running off the wall, because you needed to have that kind of authenticity,” Taylor-Johnson continues. “He’s [Kraven’s] not a superhero. He’s a man who’s been trained and is a skilled hunter and killer.”

    A Glimpse Into Kraven’s Dark Origins

    Director J.C. Chandor offers more insight into Kraven’s psyche, describing him as a character driven by both tragedy and bloodlust. “There was some element of bloodlust that he [Kraven] seems to love,” Chandor says. “There was a justification for it, and that feels good. But he is also this very inconsistent, ethically compromised individual, but yet, still, you’re rooting for him.”

    Kraven1

    The film chronicles the journey of Kraven, a man haunted by his brutal upbringing under the watchful eye of his ruthless father, Nikolai Kravinoff (played by Russell Crowe). This traumatic past ignites a path of vengeance, pushing Sergei to become one of the world’s most feared hunters—and one of Marvel’s most iconic anti-heroes.

    An Ensemble Cast for the Ages

    Kraven the Hunter boasts a stellar lineup:

    Why Fans Can’t Miss This Film

    Blending visceral action with emotionally charged storytelling, Kraven the Hunter offers fans a raw and unapologetic look at one of Marvel’s most fascinating characters. With a screenplay crafted by Richard Wenk, Art Marcum, and Matt Holloway, and the visionary direction of J.C. Chandor, this film promises to deliver heart-pounding thrills and a character study unlike any other.

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    Mark Your Calendars: The Hunt Begins December 11

    Marvel enthusiasts and action fans alike can catch Kraven the Hunter in Philippine cinemas starting December 11. Distributed by Columbia Pictures, the film is a must-see for those craving an electrifying origin story.

    Use the hashtag #KravenTheHunter to join the conversation online and share your excitement!

    Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

  • Belle Mariano Performs ‘Anong Daratnan,’ Disney’s First Filipino Song for “Moana 2”

    Belle Mariano Performs ‘Anong Daratnan,’ Disney’s First Filipino Song for “Moana 2”

    Filipino actress and singer Belle Mariano has been revealed as the voice behind “Anong Daratnan”, the Filipino rendition of “Beyond,” the end-credit single for Walt Disney Animation Studios’ highly anticipated sequel, Moana 2. This marks the first time a Filipino song will be featured in a Disney animated film, creating a monumental milestone for both Disney and the Philippines.

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    Belle Mariano gives her all in singing “Anong Daratnan” the Filipino version of the “Moana 2” end credit single “Beyond”.

    The original English version, “Beyond”, was penned by Grammy® Award-winning songwriters Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, known for their evocative storytelling through music. The song captures Moana’s adventurous spirit as she seeks connections beyond her island’s shores. While the English track is already streaming globally, “Anong Daratnan,” performed by Belle Mariano, will debut on November 22, 2024.

    A Dream Come True for Belle Mariano

    Belle Mariano, a celebrated figure in the Filipino entertainment scene, expressed her gratitude for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity:

    “Sobrang grateful ko kasi dream ko maka-work ang Disney. (I feel so grateful because it’s my dream to work with Disney.) Moana is one of my favorite Disney characters, and I’m really emulating her fearlessness in my rendition of this song.”

    Her heartfelt connection to Moana’s character resonates deeply in her performance, embodying the courage and determination that define Disney’s beloved Polynesian heroine.

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    Disney Southeast Asia on Local Talent Representation

    Rachel Fong, Studio General Manager and Integrated Marketing Director of The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia, emphasized the importance of collaborating with local artists like Belle:

    “By collaborating with local talents like Belle for Moana 2, we hope fans in the Philippines resonate deeply with the beautiful lyrics of ‘Beyond’, and experience Moana’s excitement as she embarks on a new voyage to explore the far seas of Oceania.”

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    What to Expect from Moana 2

    Set three years after the original, Moana 2 promises another epic adventure with Moana (voiced by Auli‘i Cravalho) and Maui (Dwayne Johnson). The duo teams up with a diverse crew of seafarers to explore treacherous, uncharted waters in Oceania. After receiving a mysterious call from her ancestors, Moana sets out on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and courage.

    Key Highlights:

    • Expanded Voice Cast: Includes Rachel House, Temuera Morrison, Nicole Scherzinger, and newcomer Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda as Moana’s adorable little sister, Simea.
    • Creative Team: Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, and written by Jared Bush and Miller.
    • Music: Features the work of Grammy® winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Grammy® nominee Opetaia Foa‘i, and three-time Grammy® winner Mark Mancina.
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    Mark Your Calendar

    Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana 2 sails into theaters on November 27, 2024. Before the film’s release, fans in the Philippines can revel in the beauty of “Anong Daratnan” starting November 22, bringing a piece of the Disney magic home.

  • Enter A New World: Prime Video Drops Official Trailer for “Secret Level”

    Enter A New World: Prime Video Drops Official Trailer for “Secret Level”

    Prime Video has unveiled the official trailer for its highly anticipated adult-animated anthology series, Secret Level. Produced by Amazon MGM Studios and Blur Studio, the series delivers captivating original stories inspired by some of the most beloved video games. Premiering exclusively on Prime Video on December 10, Secret Level will be available in over 240 countries and territories, with new episodes rolling out until December 17.

    An A-List Cast Brings Video Game Worlds to Life

    Secret Level features an impressive ensemble cast, including:

    • Arnold Schwarzenegger (The Terminator Franchise)
    • Kevin Hart (Jumanji)
    • Keanu Reeves (John Wick)
    • Temuera Morrison (The Book of Boba Fett)
    • Ariana Greenblatt (Barbie)
    • Emily Swallow (The Mandalorian)
    • Gabriel Luna (The Last of Us)
    • Ricky Whittle (American Gods)
    • Claudia Doumit (The Boys)
    • Laura Bailey (The Legend of Vox Machina)

    This star-studded lineup promises to immerse audiences in a rich blend of storytelling, action, and nostalgia.

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    What to Expect from Secret Level

    The series, created by Tim Miller (LOVE, DEATH + ROBOTS), celebrates gaming culture through unique, game-inspired narratives. With each episode offering its own distinct story, Secret Level is a tribute to gamers and the universes they love to explore. Dave Wilson serves as the supervising director, ensuring a visually stunning and narratively engaging experience.

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    Exclusive Content and Limited-Time Gaming Deals

    Mark your calendars! Starting November 18, fans can access episode-specific content on Secret Level’s official social media channels.

    To celebrate the series premiere, U.S. Prime members can enjoy 10% off select digital gaming currencies for 48 hours. Participating brands include Secret Level partners Xbox and Epic Games. Deals will be available directly on Amazon.

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    Get Ready to Hit Secret Level

    Prepare for an unforgettable journey into the worlds of your favorite video games. Stream Secret Level exclusively on Prime Video starting December 10. Whether you’re a gamer, an animation fan, or just love great storytelling, this series promises to unlock a whole new level of entertainment.

  • Movie Review: An Unmagical Christmas Tale: A Review of ‘Red One’

    Movie Review: An Unmagical Christmas Tale: A Review of ‘Red One’

    There is something frustratingly commercial about the holiday action adventure ‘Red One.’ The film imagines that mythical creatures do exist – from witches and trolls and even Santa Claus – but a hi-tech organization watches over them and ensures that there is a semblance of peace between the mythological world and the human world. For this film, Santa Claus is given the code name of Red One by his team of bodyguards and assistants and he lives in the center of a vast cosmopolitan city in the North Pole, hidden by a force field and a cloaking mechanism. 

    Right at the onset, ‘Red One’ attempt to rationalize the mystical and the fantastical by creating shadow organizations that are leaning heavily more towards science and technology than they are, to what is essentially, the realm of magic and wonder and imagination. Red One’s sleigh is a hi-tech vessel run by his gigantic reindeer but let’s put a lot of levers and buttons on the sleigh just to make it look technological. 

    It’s an approach that feels unimaginative and wholly capitalist-driven. 

    In ‘Red One,’ Santa Claus (JK Simmons) is kidnapped and the head of his security detail, Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson) must work together with the man responsible for getting Santa caught in the first place: the hacker and fixer Jack O’Malley (Chris Evans). Jack doesn’t believe in Christmas. In fact, he doesn’t believe in anything. He’s an absentee father who uses his know-how to work high scale jobs for anonymous clients for big money. His latest job got Santa Claus kidnapped and now he’s the only lead to tracking down his client.

    Red One movie review by Wanggo Gallaga

    The film takes on the buddy-cop formula, Callum and Jack can’t stand each other and are morally opposite of each other, and as their search for Santa leads them to the witch Gryla (Kiernan Shipka), they discover her sinister plan to punish everyone who has ever been naughty, which will include Jack’s own son.

    Despite all of Chris Evans’ charms, even he seems to struggle finding a sweet spot for Jack. As written, he’s an awful person and an awful dad and while the film attempts to redeem him (as a mainstream movie would do), Callum is also hoping to retire because he does not see the good in people anymore. Naturally, the film attempts to change his mind.

    Throughout the film, the two battle it out against Gryla’s assortment of lackeys for some big special effect fights with explosive choreography that doesn’t really mean anything if you don’t particularly like anybody. The only time that the film touches upon something that feels really magical and special is when it brings them to Germany to visit Krampus (Kristofer Hivju) and everything about Krampus and his world feels the most authentic because it doesn’t rely on the hi-tech world that feels so odd in this story.

    Red One

    The marriage of science fiction and hi-technology and magic has been done before. You have television shows like ‘Dr. Who’ and ‘Torchwood’ who have made it work. The idea of Thor and Dr. Strange seems to fit well in the MCU but ‘Red One’ takes such pride in their gadgetry and tries to make Santa hip and cool rather than see that there is some level of coolness to the whimsy of an old man delivering gifts all by himself. The bombs and the explosions, the hi-tech gear, and flying cars all seem to undermine the whole spirit of the symbol that Santa brings. It’s not the toys but the good cheer and the generosity of spirit that makes Christmas so great.

    Even with Lucy Liu, Bonnie Hunt, and a hilarious Nick Kroll can breathe some humanity in a film that imagines Santa Claus as a Mission Impossible agent and that Christmas is just job that he does every year. They say it’s for the kids, but the only real kid in the whole movie is that of Jack’s and he doesn’t really play a part until three-fourths of the movie. 

    My Rating:

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    Red One is now showing! Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.

  • Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Open Up About Their Bond, Voice Training, and Matching Tattoos in “Wicked”

    Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Open Up About Their Bond, Voice Training, and Matching Tattoos in “Wicked”

    The bond between Glinda and Elphaba comes to life in the much-anticipated film adaptation of “Wicked,” with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo capturing the heart of their characters. Together, they share a transformative journey in this retelling of a classic tale.

    Finding the Perfect Glinda and Elphaba

    The casting process for Wicked was anything but ordinary. For director Jon M. Chu and his team, finding the right actresses to embody Glinda and Elphaba wasn’t just about talent; it was about discovering a unique connection. In a memorable gathering at Chu’s home, Grande and Erivo performed an impromptu rendition of the iconic song “For Good.” As Chu recalls, “Stephen went to the piano and said to Cynthia and Ari, ‘Shall we sing, ‘For Good’?” Chu says. “Cynthia and Ari didn’t rehearse it. They’d never done it together. They sang it, and my four-year-old daughter’s jaw dropped to the floor. No one has ever seen two powerhouses like this before. It’s been beautiful to see how well connected they are.”

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    Ariana Grande’s Deep Connection to Glinda

    Grande’s path to becoming Glinda was a decade-long dream. “I had been chasing producer Marc Platt down for about ten years, wondering when this movie was going to happen and when I would have the opportunity to audition,” she shares. For Grande, embodying Glinda became a personal journey. “Spending this time with Glinda has been a profound journey of self-discovery and healing for me,” Grande reflects. “It’s remarkable how embodying her character and embracing self-trust has brought about such personal growth.”

    Her preparation was rigorous, involving vocal retraining with her coach, Eric Vetro. I had to retrain my voice to sing more classically and operatically, which is my range but a style I hadn’t done since I was much younger. It takes the chords a while to reacclimate, like any other muscle, which requires a lot of training.”

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    Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba: The Power of Resilience

    As soon as Erivo auditioned, the production team knew they had found their Elphaba. An Oscar, Grammy, Emmy, and Tony winner, Erivo’s portrayal brought a fierce vulnerability to the iconic character. “To have Cynthia Erivo, a woman of color, play a woman who is green makes all the world of difference,” Chu says. “When she sang ‘Defying Gravity,’ she blew the roof off. We were stunned. As soon as Cynthia left the room, we said, ‘our search is finally done.’”

    Erivo’s dedication was clear in her training and her approach to the role. She says, “I hope that this joy keeps growing. I hope we find something to spark joy in every day. This was a long process, and I knew that it would get hard sometimes. But I knew, even on those days, that we would find something that makes us love and reconnect to what brought us here.”

    A Lasting Bond Through Ink and Memories

    As a symbol of their journey together, Grande and Erivo got matching tattoos. “We got tattoos together,” Grande says. “I got an ‘E’ for Elphaba in a heart on the back of my leg and she had a little ‘G’ for Glinda on the back of hers.” Erivo says that their bond is anchored by a sense of joyful exploration. “I hope that we don’t lose our love of play,” Erivo says. “That’s something that I really enjoyed—this need to keep wanting to learn and discover. Ariana and I used that to make these beings as humane and full as possible. When we worked together, something special happened.”

    Don’t Miss “Wicked” in Cinemas

    Wicked opens in Philippine cinemas on November 20. Reserve your seats and join Universal Pictures PH for the latest updates on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

  • New Movies This Week – Hello, Love, Again, Conclave, Elevation, and More!

    New Movies This Week – Hello, Love, Again, Conclave, Elevation, and More!

    Ready to shake up your midweek plans? This week’s new movie lineup features a trio of films ranging from emotional dramas to suspenseful thrillers, plus the highly anticipated Italian Film Festival 2024. Philippine theaters are buzzing with the premiere of Hello, Love, Again, where Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards rekindle old sparks under the cold skies of Canada. Alongside this poignant drama, gear up for the heart-pounding action of Elevation and the chilling suspense of Sana: Let Me Hear. Meanwhile, the Italian Film Festival 2024 kicks off in Manila and Cebu, offering a handpicked selection of Italy’s finest cinematic gems. Whether you’re craving romance, action, horror, or an international cinematic escape, this week’s releases have you covered. Tag your movie buddies, grab that extra-buttered popcorn, and get ready to experience the magic of the big screen. Which movie are you watching first?

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

    New Movies Nov 13 - Elevation, Hello, Love, Again, Sana: Let Me Hear, and The Italian Film Festival 2024

    Hello, Love, Again

    2024 • PG • 2 hrs 2 mins
    DRAMA, ROMANCE
    BUY TICKETS

    Hello, Love, Again marks the return of Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards in a tale of enduring love and personal transformation. After years apart, Joy and Ethan’s paths cross once more in Canada, far from the bustling streets of Hong Kong where they last said their goodbyes. Hello, Love, Again explores the evolution of love through time and distance, examining the personal changes that each has undergone. Their reunion is a test of whether their love can adapt or if it remains a cherished memory of the past. This film explores the resilience of love through time and trials, offering audiences a deep, reflective look into what it means to grow both apart and together.

    Elevation

    2024 • PG • 1 hr 31 mins
    ACTION, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
    BUY TICKETS

    In Elevation, a heroic trio led by a determined single father ventures into perilous terrain to rescue a young boy from nightmarish creatures. Get ready for a heart-pounding journey as a single dad joins forces with two fearless women to confront otherworldly threats in a daring rescue mission. This action-packed thriller combines edge-of-your-seat suspense with a sci-fi twist, delivering an adrenaline-filled experience that tests the boundaries of bravery and human endurance.

    Sana: Let Me Hear

    2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 48 mins
    HORROR
    BUY TICKETS

    Summer classes take a horrifying turn in Sana: Let Me Hear. When a student’s suicide unveils hidden spectral presences within school grounds, a temporary teacher must uncover the eerie secrets that linger among her students. This film is set to deliver spine-chilling moments and a gripping storyline filled with suspense and spectral mysteries.

    The Italian Film Festival 2024

    Italian films are making a dazzling comeback to Philippine cinema! From November 12 to 15, 2024, the Italian Film Festival will light up screens in Manila and Cebu, celebrating the richness and artistry of Italian cinema with six films that showcase the country’s diverse storytelling:

    Italian Film Festival 2024
    • “Kidnapped: The Abduction of Edgardo Mortara” – A poignant historical drama that revisits a controversial moment in religious history.
    • “La Chimera“ – An intriguing tale of an archaeologist unraveling the past’s echoes.
    • “My Summer with Irène“ – A search for meaning and connection in a transient world.
    • “Palazzina LAF“ – A gripping look at labor and social activism in modern Italy.
    • “Io Capitano“ – An inspiring story of ambition and dreams amidst hardship.
    • “Diabolik: Who Are You?“ – A thrilling conclusion to the beloved crime saga.

    These screenings, taking place across Metro Manila cinemas, including Shangri-La Red Carpet, Power Plant Cinema, and Gateway Cinema invite moviegoers to experience the depths of storytelling through Italian eyes.

    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:

    We Live in Time

    2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 47 mins
    COMEDY, DRAMA, ROMANCE
    BUY TICKETS

    My Hero Academia: You’re Next

    2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 50 mins
    ACTION, ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, SCIENCE FICTION
    GET SHOWTIMES

    Red One

    2024 • PG • 2 hrs 3 mins
    ACTION, COMEDY, FANTASY
    BUY TICKETS

    Venom: The Last Dance

    2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 49 mins
    ACTION, ADVENTURE, SCIENCE FICTION
    GET SHOWTIMES

    Smile 2

    2024 • R-18 • 2 hrs 7 mins
    HORROR, MYSTERY
    GET SHOWTIMES

    Balota

    2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 42 mins
    DRAMA
    GET SHOWTIMES

    Whether you’re drawn to the heartwarming tale of Hello, Love, Again, the adrenaline-pumping action of Elevation, the eerie suspense of Sana: Let Me Hear, or the captivating films at the Italian Film Festival, there’s something for every movie lover. That wraps up this week’s new releases! As always, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to make sure you don’t miss out on these must-see films. Check ClickTheCity for showtimes and make your next movie experience unforgettable. Stay tuned for next week’s movie updates—and happy watching!

  • Filmmakers Reflect on the Journey Behind “Gladiator II,” in Cinemas December 4

    Filmmakers Reflect on the Journey Behind “Gladiator II,” in Cinemas December 4

    Fans of Gladiator can finally rejoice as the highly-anticipated sequel, Gladiator II, directed by Ridley Scott, roars into cinemas on December 4. Ever since the first film’s legendary success in 2000, whispers of a sequel have echoed through Hollywood. According to Scott, “The popularity of Gladiator just kept growing. The film stayed in the public’s mind. I knew we should consider a sequel, but it took years to figure out what the story was going to be.”

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    Connie Nielsen and Joseph Quinn in Gladiator II.

    Bringing Back the World of Ancient Rome

    Producer Michael Pruss, who has worked closely with Scott for over a decade, reveals, “The world of the Roman Empire and the unforgettable characters of Gladiator were so brilliantly crafted. Recreating that on an even grander scale [for the sequel] was a necessity. We wanted that same powerful motivation for revenge but something that was also fresh and modern and unique. It took longer than anybody anticipated, but great ideas and human drama take time to craft. Hopefully the results here speak for themselves.” This fresh twist involves a new lead character, Lucius, portrayed by rising star Paul Mescal, who plays the part of an embittered exile determined to confront his past.

    A New Journey with Lucius – The Lost Prince

    Producer Lucy Fisher, who has been part of the Gladiator II journey since 2001, felt that a strong story was crucial. “It took a long time to get a story that we thought would be worthy of being a sequel to Gladiator. But once we grabbed onto the character of Lucius [played by Paul Mescal] as an angry young man, exiled and abandoned, and committed to destroying the city that had both made and betrayed him, our story began to unfold. Lucius would be a lost prince, wanting to be anywhere but Rome, and yet all roads would lead him there.” Fisher explains.

    Creating Epic New Thrills

    Reprising the grand combat scenes that made the original a spectacle is a formidable task, notes producer Douglas Wick. “The audience has seen grand combat many times over and their thirst for MORE was unquenchable. Whatever we created had to provide captivating new thrills. A true spectacle for the ages.”

    In 2021, Scott teamed up with screenwriter David Scarpa, known for All the Money in the World. Together, they brought a new layer of intensity to the Colosseum, where battle has become even more brutal and audiences more bloodthirsty. Roman emperors Caracalla and Geta (portrayed by Fred Hechinger and Joseph Quinn) heighten the sense of tyranny, pushing the empire to new depths of cruelty and spectacle.

    “I knew and loved the original,” says Scarpa. “When Ridley approached me, I was extremely excited. Gladiator is such an esteemed classic and a touchstone for historical action films. I was both honored and a little apprehensive about working with the people who created that world. Ridley has a very strong directorial voice, and his vision is central to the movie.”

    Gladiator II Denzel Washington
    Denzel Washington in Gladiator II.

    Ridley Scott’s Timeless Take on the Empire

    For Scott, Gladiator II is about more than Rome. “This film is about the Roman Empire, obviously,” he says. “But it’s also about the way humanity never learns its lesson. We keep repeating history again and again and again.”

    Experience Gladiator II in Cinemas December 4

    Mark your calendars! Gladiator II is set to premiere in Philippine cinemas on December 4, distributed by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Don’t miss this epic return to the world of Gladiator. Share your excitement with #GladiatorII and tag @paramountpicsph.

    Photo & Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures”

  • Movie Review: ‘Balota’ is a Wake-Up Call, Caught in the Middle of Its Mainstream Sensibilities with Indie Aesthetics

    Movie Review: ‘Balota’ is a Wake-Up Call, Caught in the Middle of Its Mainstream Sensibilities with Indie Aesthetics

    Immensely relevant, ‘Kip Oebanda’s ‘Balota’ is a timely call for the people to wake up and take charge of the nation’s future by being savvier about our elections and our politics. The film takes a dark, satirical tone to give voice to what the film expresses as something we all are aware of – corruption, dirty politics, election fraud and theft – but seem incapable of stopping. With a brilliant cast, ‘Balota’ is spread thin by the film’s two-pronged approach: mainstream sensibilities and an independent filmmaking style. The film is successful at what it sets out to do in its messaging but struggles to fully utilize either of its approaches to make something that really stands out.

    ‘Balota’ is set in 2007, in an unnamed, small rural town during its mayoral elections. On one hand is the incumbent mayor (Mae Paner), a land grabbing politico who is well-known for her affairs and policies on work and employment that have caused casualties while her opponent is a former sexy-star-turned-politician (Gardo Versoza) who promises a change of guard. Caught in the middle is Emmy (Marian Rivera), a tough, well-loved teacher who is assigned as a poll watcher and as she must deliver the ballot box to the governor’s office for counting, she escapes with her life from an armed attempt to steal the ballot. Alone in the woods and with no one to trust, she has to figure out what to do with the ballot box that is handcuffed to her hand while fearing for the safety of her son (Will Ashley).

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    Oebanda creates a vivid world. He dramatizes for us, in simple terms, the way these things work during elections. He shows us how votes are bought, how goons shake down the people, and how even the police are involved. The town is a living, breathing entity with its own thoughts and agency. Emmy’s son, Enzo carry a superficial discussion on politics with his cousin Jimbo (Raheel Bhyria) that shows us how the youth have interest but still need to dig deeper into the layers of politics outside of image and branding. The cops, through the characters played by Joel Saracho and Royce Cabrera, show different aspects of people all just caught up in the crossfire. At one point, the film even takes time to focus on two members of the queer community – played by Sassa Gurl and Esnyr Ranollo – and how a job can be opposite of your own political views while Donna Cariaga plays a woman leading a protest for worker’s rights and justice for her dead husband against Mae Paner’s incumbent mayor.

    Balota Movie Review
    Image from Marian Rivera FB Page

    It’s a wonderful interweaving of real-life issues and characters with different motivations and value systems and it’s so interesting to watch as the film shifts from a satire to political thriller as Emmy has to literally fight for her life. As the film unfolds, it builds up on the campier aspects of satire, moving more and more towards the absurd. At the film’s third act, Emmy faces off with the main antagonist and they have a back-and-forth that is straight out of a teleserye only elevated by Marian Rivera and her co-star’s (won’t reveal to spare you of a spoiler) magnificent acting.

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    Image from Marian Rivera FB Page

    But it’s this aspect that I find the weakest in the film. The film carries mainstream sensibilities – this is a film Oebanda needs people to see and so he casts Marian Rivera and creates a plot that is thrilling and exciting but carries with it an idealistic ending (but still with a sharp ending commentary) and a mainstream tone – but it’s shot and filmed like an indie movie. There’s a lot of holding back to try and keep the film grounded in its aesthetics and pacing. It’s not quick in its narrative rhythm as it likes to linger to try and evoke thought. There’s still a feel and an aesthetic that keeps it feeling like an indie film when the foundation of the story feels better suited for a mainstream film. It saddles uncomfortably in the middle and I feel the film would benefit more if it leaned in more to any other two sides.

    But despite my observations, I love the performances in the film. Rivera manages to truly be in the moment and really captures all the layers that makes Emmy such an interesting character. She’s tough but loving and the way every character reacts to her as written is supported by the way Rivera realizes the character. She has a strong moral center but never makes it corny or fictional. She is vulnerable when her character is pushed to the limits, but you can also see her gather her strength when her character needs it. It’s a magnificent display of Rivera’s range. Everybody else manages to elevate the material with Royce Cabrera, Joel Saracho, and Gardo Versoza also showing off their immense range. 

    My Rating:

    stars 4 0



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  • Every Mission Comes to This: Watch the New Trailer for “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning”

    Every Mission Comes to This: Watch the New Trailer for “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning”

    Paramount Pictures and Skydance have unleashed the new trailer for Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, promising an action-packed conclusion to the epic series. In a dramatic homage to his iconic role, Tom Cruise wears the same wardrobe as his character, Ethan Hunt, that he famously donned for his breathtaking stunt during the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, drawing fans worldwide closer to the high-stakes world of Ethan Hunt.

    In Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, the stakes have never been higher, and every decision leads to a climactic reckoning. Fans can mark their calendars for May 21, 2025, the official release date when the film hits theaters exclusively, promising an unforgettable cinematic experience.

    Synopsis

    “Our lives are the sum of our choices.” This theme takes center stage in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, where Tom Cruise returns as IMF agent Ethan Hunt. Under the masterful direction of Christopher McQuarrie, Hunt faces his most challenging mission yet—a final journey shaped by every decision made throughout his career. With explosive action sequences, heart-stopping stunts, and an elite cast, the movie promises a grand finale to the franchise.

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    Meet the Team Behind the Action

    Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is a collaboration of the series’ finest. Alongside Tom Cruise, the movie is executive produced by David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Don Granger, and Chris Brock. With an incredible ensemble cast, including Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Vanessa Kirby, and more, fans can expect unforgettable performances in this thrilling finale.

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    Join the Countdown to May 21, 2025

    Fans are invited to join the global conversation with the hashtag #MissionImpossible and tag @paramountpicsph. Get ready to witness Ethan Hunt’s final adventure—every choice, every risk, every consequence.

    Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures”