Category: Movies

Director Parker Finn Calls Naomi Scott a ‘Quintuple Threat’ in “Smile 2,” Coming to Cinemas October 16

Parker Finn is thrilled about casting the multi-talented Naomi Scott as the lead in the highly anticipated horror sequel, Smile 2. Known for her roles in Charlie’s Angels and Aladdin, Scott’s casting has left Finn in awe. “Naomi is a triple, quadruple, quintuple threat,” he says, emphasizing how “amazing” she is in this dark, psychological thriller.

Naomi Scott Takes the Lead as Skye Riley

In Smile 2, Scott steps into the role of Skye Riley, a global pop superstar on the verge of a new world tour. However, Riley’s life takes a sinister turn as she becomes plagued by eerie and unexplainable events. Battling personal demons, including the pressures of fame and her own traumatic past, Riley finds herself teetering on the edge of madness, forced to confront a mysterious curse.

For this emotionally demanding role, Finn needed someone who could capture the delicate balance between fame and fragility. Enter Naomi Scott.

A Meeting That Was Meant to Be

Scott and Finn first met for what was supposed to be a brief meeting, but it turned into a three-hour conversation. “We couldn’t speak fast enough,” recalls Scott. “I had no idea that this movie had music involved but I could see that Parker was itching to tell me about it.” Once the filmmaker revealed that the movie he was working on was about a singer, Scott thought, “Well, this sounds like me!”

Skye Riley: A Pop Star with a Dark Past

Skye’s character isn’t just about glitz and glamor. Beneath her pop star persona lies a young woman grappling with the aftermath of addiction and trauma. “We meet her and although she’s sober, she’s incredibly numb,” explains Scott. “I don’t think she’s present in her body and she hasn’t dealt with a lot of the things she needs time and space to deal with. There’s a lot bubbling under the surface. But for someone who has to deal with everything she’s dealing with – it’s interesting that when she gets the curse, it activates this survival instinct of someone who really wants to live. She wants to survive.”

For Scott, portraying Skye’s dual nature—the polished, public superstar and the broken, private individual—was a unique challenge. “She’s not someone who was born into any kind of privilege,” Scott says. “She’s someone who has had to fight for everything. And there was a version of herself that was projected back to her from the world. I think she felt a need to run with that and therefore didn’t have the space to discover who she was. When it comes to her music and her art, she’s very self-assured and is one of those artists who knows what they want. But outside of that, there’s a stunted maturity and a stunted growth with relationships. And as she relates to herself, I don’t think she knows who she is. So that was interesting and fun to play.”

From Grace Kelly to Rock Bottom: Scott’s Range Shines

Director Parker Finn is effusive in his praise for Scott’s performance. “Naomi is so unbelievably talented,” he says. “She can do everything. There are moments where she needs to be able to play a very elegant Grace Kelly-type in her public persona, and other moments where we see her at absolute rock bottom, at her worst. And Naomi did both with aplomb.”

Smile 2: A Film That Will Leave Audiences on Edge

Smile 2, set to terrify audiences starting October 16, is a chilling continuation of the curse introduced in the original Smile. Directed and written by Parker Finn, the film promises to push boundaries with its uncut R-18 rating in the Philippines. Finn, along with producers Marty Bowen, Wyck Godfrey, and others, have crafted a horror experience that is both terrifying and thought-provoking.

The film also boasts an ensemble cast including Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, and Kyle Gallner. The combination of psychological terror and powerful performances guarantees a film that will haunt viewers long after they leave the theater.

Get Ready for the Fear

Smile 2, distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures, will be released uncut in Philippine cinemas on October 16. Don’t miss the terrifying journey of Skye Riley, brought to life by Naomi Scott in a performance you won’t forget. Be part of the conversation using #Smile2 and #SmileMovie, and tag @paramountpicsph on social media.

_{Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”}

October 15, 2024
Movie Review: An Unlikely Modern Family: A Review of ‘The Wild Robot’

The trailer of ‘The Wild Robot’ was enough to send shivers down my spine. I got goosebumps from the exquisite visuals and the soaring musical score. I was very much excited to watch this new animated full-length feature from Dreamworks studios; the same studio who gave us such lovely films like ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ and ‘Bad Guys’ and directed and written by Chris Sanders, who co-directed and co-wrote ‘Lilo & Stitch’ and ‘How to Train Your Dragon.’ I was so sure this was going to be an event film.

The film opens with a crash; much like the trailer suggests, a hi-tech flying ship crashes into an uninhabited island and a robot, ROZZUM unit no 7134, is accidentally activated by otters who were inspecting the crash site. The robot is a servant robot who is programmed to follow orders but with no humans around to give it orders, it finds itself without purpose. It manages to frighten all the animals in the island and decides that if it can’t find a human to give it orders, it will take orders from any other living thing. It studies the languages of the animals so that it can talk to them.

(center) Roz (Lupita Nyong’o) in DreamWorks Animation’s The Wild Robot, directed by Chris Sanders.

This is where I got surprised. I only saw the teaser, and not the trailer, and I didn’t realise the film had dialogue. After ROZZUM 7134 learns the language of the animals, it now speaks to everyone, and they don’t stop talking. I was a little annoyed by this change in tone. In an uninhabited island, the animals all spoke so western-like and operated with such modern language. It felt off to me, despite its fantastic cast like Pedro Pascal as a conniving fox, Catherine O’ Hara as a possum mother, and Academy Award winner Lupita Nyong’o as ROZZUM 7134.

Roz (Lupita Nyong’o) in DreamWorks Animation’s The Wild Robot, directed by Chris Sanders.

In the attempt to find a task to perform, ROZZUM 7134 has a tussle with a bear and accidentally destroys a nest of goose eggs, except for one. The goose egg hatches and imprints itself on the robot, who it now identifies as its mother. The fox, Fink, who at first was trying to eat the egg, now assigns the robot its first task: it now must care for the goose. Fink plans to use ROZZUM 7134 for his own purposes but as time goes by, the three make an unlikely family.

I was resistant to the film as I found the anthropomorphication of the animals to be against my expectations. There’s so much beauty in the imagery (I read that Hayao Miyazaki was one of the inspirations of the visual design of the film) and the trailer was able to elicit so much emotion from me. I thought the film would be doing that here.

What I did not expect was how I was going to react by the second act of the movie. ‘The Wild Robot’ takes its time to build the family of the robot, now called Roz, Fink, and the young orphan gosling, Brightbill (voiced by Kit Connor). Roz must help Brightbill learn to eat, swim and fly on his own if he will survive as a goose.

By halfway through the film, I started crying at every major scene. All the beauty and warmth and heart that was featured in the teaser I saw came out in full force in the second and third act of ‘The Wild Robot.’ Through its wonderful characters and how it establishes the ecosystem of that island, the film is able to highlight the power of community, of a family, and the joys of kindness and generosity. Despite my resistance, the film won me over. Through its depiction of a very modern family: Roz and Fink and Brightbill; it shows us what adoption looks like and feels like and how it is just like any other family. Through the film, it shows that family can also be a choice that you make.

Roz (Lupita Nyong’o) in DreamWorks Animation’s The Wild Robot, directed by Chris Sanders.

It’s a story of motherhood, of family, and community. It also manages to make jabs and digs at the corporate world – because of course, the company that made Roz is going to want her back – and creates a lovely contrast between the world of men and the uninhabited world of the island. Lush imagery, unforgettable characters, and gorgeous musical score, ‘The Wild Robot’ is another stellar film out of Dreamworks.

My Rating:

The Wild Robot is now showing! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.

October 15, 2024
Witness the Epic Finale! Tickets for “Venom: The Last Dance” Are Now on Sale!

Prepare yourself for the most anticipated showdown of the year! The final chapter in the Venom trilogy, Venom: The Last Dance, is heading to Philippine cinemas on October 23, and tickets are officially on sale. This is your chance to be among the first to witness the explosive end to Venom’s saga!

Tom Hardy is back as the iconic anti-hero, ready to deliver a high-octane performance that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Will Eddie Brock and Venom survive their ultimate test? One thing’s for sure—you don’t want to miss it!

A Featurette You Can’t Miss

If you thought you’ve seen it all, think again! Venom’s surprising rap skills are on full display in a hilarious new featurette. Check it out here:

Secure Your Seats Today!

Avoid the last-minute rush and book your tickets early! Visit your favorite local cinema’s ticketing website to reserve your spot for Venom: The Last Dance. As this is the final movie in the series, fans are expected to fill theaters fast, so don’t delay!

About Venom: The Last Dance

In this heart-pounding finale, Tom Hardy reprises his role as Venom, one of Marvel’s most complex and misunderstood anti-heroes. The stakes have never been higher, as Eddie Brock and his alien symbiote are hunted relentlessly by enemies from both their worlds. Forced into a life-altering decision, the duo must confront their fate head-on. Will they survive, or is this truly their last dance?

With a stellar cast including Chiwetel Ejiofor, Juno Temple, Rhys Ifans, Peggy Lu, Alanna Ubach, and Stephen Graham, the film is directed by Kelly Marcel. Marcel also penned the screenplay, based on a story crafted by both Hardy and herself.

Produced by Marvel and Sony heavyweights such as Avi Arad, Matt Tolmach, Amy Pascal, Kelly Marcel, Tom Hardy, and Hutch Parker, Venom: The Last Dance promises an unforgettable cinematic experience. The film is distributed by Columbia Pictures in the Philippines, the local arm of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

Mark your calendars! Venom: The Last Dance debuts in Philippine cinemas on October 23, 2024. Join the conversation online with the hashtag #Venom and tag @columbiapicph to share your excitement!

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

October 11, 2024
Movie Review: Family First: A Review of ‘Mujigae’

It’s great to see director Randolph Longjas back to making full-length features. I remember seeing ‘Star na si Van Damme Stallone’ many years ago and being absolutely moved by the film. His latest movie, ‘Mujigae’ is his first feature-length film since 2016, and the warmth and tenderness are still there. In ‘Mujigae,’ he tackles and explores the idea of motherhood, in all its many forms, while also navigating the complex emotions around family and how the Filipino family is affected by economic factors that trigger separation due to immigration and finding better opportunities abroad.

The movie is centered on a 5-year-old girl called Mujigae (Ryrie Sophia), who is orphaned in South Korea when her mother, Rainalyn (Anna Luna) passes away. Her Korean father (Kim Jisoo) is nowhere to be found and she moves back to the Philippines to live with her grandfather (Richard Quan) and her aunt Sunny (Alexa Ilacad).

While the film is centered on the titular character, the film’s true protagonist is Sunny. Sunny is young woman with a lot of anger in her heart. She has a strained relationship with her sister Reinalyn, and the sudden appearance and inclusion of Mujigae into her life is a stark reminder of a painful past and heavy emotions. Her relationship with her father is also strained and this weaves into everything. Her friends and workmates at a salon, played with such warmth and pitch-perfect tonality by Donna Cariaga and Kate Alejandrino, are both positive about their ideas on motherhood. Cariaga’s Sushmita has several children already and is pregnant with another. Alejandrino’s character is hoping to get pregnant after several miscarriages. On the opposite end, Sunny doesn’t want to have children, rooted on her own relationship with her family. And so, the arrival of Mujigae amplifies all these emotions.

Longjas, alongside screenwriter Mark Raywin Tome, take their time setting up the story and establishing the characters and the world of their film. They carefully build up Sunny’s character and her relationship with her father, her friends, and with her new niece and really focus on pushing every button on Sunny’s character pushing her to the brink. It can drag out quite a bit, but it is necessary because the moment Sunny finds a moment to set aside past hurts and to really reconcile her feelings about her sister does the story take a turn and Sunny and Mujigae’s new journey bring the film to a different path.

There’s a lot of twists and turns in the film, as the trailer suggests that even Mujigae’s father comes back to turn the film around all over again. Kim Jisoo’s performance, coming quite late in the movie, invigorates the film at its tail-end, adding a strong presence that adds to the complications. That third act is really the meat of the film, and I wish there was more of it. The first two acts – the arrival of Mujigae into Sunny’s life and Sunny and Mujigae forming a bond – could have been shortened so that it could really play out the third act’s more complex emotional beats. There’s guilt and remorse and regret and hope that’s found in that crucial third act and while it’s done well; I feel that it could have sped through the first two acts and really lingered in the third.

But aside from its slow pacing, what makes ‘Mujigae’ shine is how Filipino the film is – from its tone to the way it examines and questions its idea of family and family obligations – and how it is unafraid to make its statements about motherhood, which I am still 50-50 on, but I am impressed by the conviction that the film has on the matter. It’s also supported by such powerful performances. Alexa Ilacad is a star in the making. I’ve seen her captivate a whole theater in ‘Walang Aray’ and she delivers that same presence here. The best scenes are when Ilacad, Cariaga, and Alejandrino are together, just being women, and talking about their lives. It’s such a tender, intimate moment that feels natural and just right. It’s moments like these that are so relatable and honest and authentic.

‘Mujigae’ is set in the Filipino melodrama mode. It has a warm, beautiful heart that is meant to really reach out and touch the Filipino audience. It has things to say about motherhood and family and presents it in a story that is tailor-fit for the Pinoy audience.

My Rating:

Mujigae is now showing! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.

October 10, 2024
One in Faith – Meet the Men and Women of “The Forge”, Now Showing Exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas

“The Forge,” the latest release from the Kendrick Brothers – the creative team behind the No. 1 box-office hit “War Room,” as well as “Overcomer,” “Courageous” and “Fireproof” – will be showing exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas starting October 9.

Directed and co-written by Alex Kendrick, “The Forge” is sure to inspire discipleship and prayerfulness as it tells the story of a young man named Isaiah Wright. A year out of high school with no plans for his future, Isaiah is challenged by his single mom and a successful businessman to start charting a better course for his life. Through the prayers of his mother and her friend Miss Clara, as well as biblical discipleship from his new mentor, Isaiah begins to discover God’s purpose for his life is so much more than he could hope for or imagine.

In “The Forge,” moviegoers will find themselves reconnecting with characters and actors they’ve known and loved as they dive into a compelling new story that is certain to inspire and challenge people to grow deeper in their faith.

_{Priscilla Shirer plays twin sisters Elizabeth Jordan (reprising her role from “War Room”) and Cynthia Wright in “The Forge”}

Priscilla Shirer, an internationally known Bible teacher, plays Cynthia, mom of Isaiah. “It seems like a privilege that the Lord is allowing us this opportunity to do what we consider to be ministry together as a family,” says Shirer, a familiar face to fans of the Kendrick Brothers, having starred in their previous work “War Room.”

_{Karen Abercrombie plays Miss Clara in “The Forge”}

Sure to be a fan favorite is prayer warrior Miss Clara, played by Karen Abercrombie. “Oh, it’s wonderful, just to step back into her shoes, put her wig back on,” shares Abercrombie. “She really has been one of my favorite characters to play for many reasons. The opportunity to take the message of prayer around the world, the importance of it and the power of it. Just being able to embody that character again, breathe life back into her again, it’s quite wonderful for me.”

_{Cameron Arnett plays Joshua Moore in “The Forge”}

Cameron Arnett plays the important character of Joshua, mentor to Isaiah. Says Arnett, “Whenever I get an opportunity to testify of the Kendricks, what I say about their set is that it’s like a slice of heaven. This is what Christianity is supposed to be like. This is what the church is supposed to be like. The synergy, the oneness, the seamlessness, the prayer, the camaraderie, the laughter, the joy, the celebration of other people. I mean, all of those things just kind of come readily on the set.”

In the movie, Isaiah Wright, the young man whose story is being told in “The Forge,” crosses paths with Joshua, the owner of Moore Fitness, who offers Isaiah a job with one stipulation: they meet together regularly in a mentoring relationship.

_{Aspen Kennedy plays Isaiah Wright in “The Forge”}

Bringing life to Isaiah is newcomer Aspen Kennedy. “Isaiah has so many centerpieces around him – his mom, his friends, basketball,” says Kennedy. “But in a way he’s still trying to overcompensate his confidence because he lacked that father figure… I love Isaiah’s journey. I love how he goes from not having that father figure to meeting Joshua and just really taking off from there because he wants to be poured into; he lacks that, so it’s a beautiful journey to experience.”

The mentoring relationship between Joshua and Isaiah is one of the most inspiring parts of the film. Audiences get to see the relationship between the two deepening as Joshua moves from mentoring to discipling Isaiah – guiding the younger man to grow in his faith.

The young Kennedy says it best: “I definitely want the audience to take away the power of forgiveness, the power of letting go. It’s the power of pouring into others, the power of investing in others, and just really understanding that we should think less of ourselves because that’s the posture that we can serve others best.”

Why The Forge?

Director Alex explains the movie’s title. “Spiritually speaking, when the Lord puts us in a forge, He works on us spiritually, to build and grow and sharpen our faith, our character, our beliefs,” Alex says. “Sometimes that comes through a level of pressure, a level of spiritual heat, if you will. And so we titled this movie ‘The Forge’ because of what it does to us spiritually.”

Offering a wide array of choices and diverse content is one of the commitments of Ayala Malls Cinemas to its patrons, movie lovers who go to the cinemas to watch movies the best way possible – on the big screen. From big blockbusters to critically acclaimed independent features to niche titles such as the faith-based “The Forge,” Ayala Malls Cinemas has something for everyone.

No matter what genre they choose, movie lovers get to have an enhanced movie-watching experience, thanks to state-of-the-art facilities, including plush seating, generous legroom, cutting-edge laser projections, and superior audio technologies like Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos. And what movie time is complete without snacks? At the Movie Snackbar, guests can enjoy different-flavored popcorn, hotdog sandwiches and cold drinks for a chill and relaxing movie-watching experience.

For more information on screening schedules and to book tickets for “The Forge” and other titles, movie enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the Ayala Malls Cinemas FB and IG pages and www.sureseats.com

Prepare to grow in faith and be inspired. Watch “The Forge,” now showing exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas.

_{Photo and Video Credit: CrystalSky Entertainment / Ayala Malls Cinemas}

October 9, 2024
Takashi Shimizu, Director of ‘Ju-On,’ Unleashes New Horror: “SANA: Let Me Hear”

A decades-old mystery resurfaces in “SANA: Let Me Hear”, the latest horror masterpiece from renowned director Takashi Shimizu, the mind behind “The Grudge (Ju-On).” Prepare yourself for a chilling journey into the unknown when the film hits Philippine cinemas on November 13.

A Tragedy That Never Died

Set in 1992, SANA: Let Me Hear opens with a fatal rooftop confrontation between schoolgirls. One of them, Sana, accidentally falls to her death in front of her peers. A strange clue remains—her cassette recorder, found next to her body, still running. The eerie recording sparks the beginning of a haunting tale that refuses to fade.

Fast forward 32 years, and a new summer brings new horrors. Honoka, a young woman hired to teach at the same school, witnesses history repeating itself when another student falls from the very same rooftop, right in front of her and two of her students, Hitomi and Takeru.

The Mystery Deepens

As Honoka, Hitomi, and Takeru delve into the strange circumstances surrounding the recent death, they uncover the tragic history of Sana. The further they investigate, the more they become entangled in the sinister events surrounding the mysterious girl. Could Sana’s spirit still haunt the school? And is she the cause of these terrifying incidents—or merely a victim?

The tension builds as the trio discovers unsettling truths about the decades-old tragedy that refuses to be forgotten.

A Stellar Cast

SANA: Let Me Hear stars popular NMB48 idol Nagisa Shibuya in the lead role of Honoka. She is joined by Hayase Ikoi as Hitomi and Soma Santoki as Takeru. Santoki recently lent his voice to the lead character Mahito in Studio Ghibli’s latest animated sensation “The Boy and the Heron.”

With its talented cast, gripping storyline, and bone-chilling atmosphere, SANA: Let Me Hear promises to be an unforgettable horror experience for fans of the genre.

Mark Your Calendars

Experience the terror for yourself when SANA: Let Me Hear arrives in Philippine cinemas on November 13. Don’t miss out on this gripping tale of fear, mystery, and the supernatural.

Follow Encore Films PH on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates, trailers, and exclusive content!

October 9, 2024
New Movies This Week – Bagman, The Forge, The Wild Robot, and More!

Ready to add some excitement to your midweek plans? This week’s movie lineup brings a fresh lineup of thrilling new releases, perfect for a movie night or a weekend escape! From pulse-pounding action in Aftermath to an alien invasion in Alien Country, there’s no shortage of suspense and excitement. If you’re into chills, Bagman is set to deliver spine-tingling scares, while Bocchi The Rock! Recap Part 1 offers anime lovers a delightful mix of music and comedy. For those looking for deeper stories, Mujigae and The Forge bring emotional family dramas to the forefront, while The Wild Robot is the perfect family-friendly adventure and the bonus premiere of Jung Kook: I Am Still – The Party Edition coming on October 11. Which one will you see first? Don’t miss out—grab your movie squad, score that extra-buttered popcorn, and watch the movies hitting theaters near you!

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

Aftermath

2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 35 mins
ACTION, THRILLER
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If you’re in the mood for an edge-of-your-seat action thriller, Aftermath is the one to watch. Dylan Sprouse stars as Eric Daniels, a former Army Ranger trapped on Boston’s Tobin Bridge, along with hundreds of commuters and a high-profile prisoner, after a group of heavily armed ex-military contractors takes over the bridge.

With time running out and lives at stake, Eric must use his military training and instincts to protect his teenage sister and the hostages from the ruthless leader (Mason Gooding) of the armed group. Expect non-stop action and intense drama in this high-stakes thriller.

Alien Country

2024 • PG • 1 hr 36 mins
SCIENCE FICTION
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Looking for something a bit out of this world? Alien Country is here to satisfy your sci-fi cravings. This film follows a demolition derby mechanic who must stop an alien invasion to save humanity—and his pregnant girlfriend—from destruction.

With plenty of action, humor, and extraterrestrial chaos, Alien Country brings a fun and wild energy to the big screen. Rachele Brooke Smith and K.C. Clyde lead the cast in this exciting sci-fi adventure that brings thrills and a touch of romance. If you love alien invasion films, this is one you won’t want to miss!

Bagman

2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 32 mins
HORROR, THRILLER
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For fans of horror and suspense, Bagman introduces a terrifying legend brought back to life. The movie follows Patrick McKee (Sam Claflin), a man who narrowly escaped the mythical Bagman as a child. This creature has haunted cultures for centuries, snatching children and taking them away in his rotting bag, never to be seen again.

Years later, Bagman returns, threatening Patrick’s family—his wife, Karina, and their son, Jake. With its chilling atmosphere and unsettling premise, Bagman is a horror thriller that will leave you gripping your seat. Prepare for some serious scares!

Bocchi The Rock! Recap Part 1

2024 • PG • 1 hr 30 mins
ANIMATION, COMEDY, MUSIC
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Fans of anime and music are in for a treat with Bocchi The Rock! Recap Part 1. This animated comedy follows Hitori Gotoh, a shy and introverted high school student who dreams of becoming a rock star.

Despite her anxiety and social struggles, Hitori’s guitar skills catch the attention of Nijika, the drummer of Kessoku Band. As Hitori begins to break out of her shell and experience life in a band, the film explores friendship, personal growth, and the power of music. Bocchi The Rock! is the perfect pick if you’re looking for something lighthearted and uplifting.

Mujigae

2024 • PG • 1 hr 49 mins
DRAMA
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Mujigae offers a touching drama that explores the complexities of family, culture, and identity. After losing her Filipino mother in South Korea, 5-year-old Mujigae is sent to live with her estranged Aunt Sunny in the Philippines.

As they both navigate grief and cultural differences, they slowly form a bond that helps them heal and grow. Starring Kim Ji-soo and Alexa Ilacad, this film provides an emotional and poignant story about embracing change and discovering strength through family. Mujigae is a beautiful, heartfelt watch that will resonate deeply with audiences.

The Forge

2024 • PG • 2 hrs 2 mins
DRAMA, FAMILY
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In The Forge, 19-year-old Isaiah Wright is stuck in life—he has no job, no plans, and no direction. His mother gives him an ultimatum: step up or move out. Isaiah’s life takes a turn when he’s hired at Moore Fitness, where he meets a mentor who pushes him to confront his past and find a greater purpose.

This coming-of-age drama touches on themes of personal growth, faith, and resilience. With powerful performances from Aspen Kennedy Wilson and Priscilla Shirer, The Forge is an inspiring and thought-provoking story about taking control of your future.

The Wild Robot

2024 • PG • 1 hr 41 mins
ANIMATION, FAMILY, SCIENCE FICTION
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For a film that’s perfect for families, The Wild Robot delivers an exciting, heartwarming tale. After a shipwreck, Roz, an intelligent robot, finds herself stranded on a remote island. To survive, she forms unlikely friendships with the island’s animals, caring for an orphaned baby goose and learning the true meaning of family.

Voiced by an all-star cast, including Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, and Kit Connor, The Wild Robot is a visually stunning animated film that explores themes of survival, community, and kindness. This film is an absolute must-watch for families looking for an adventure that’s both thrilling and touching.

Jung Kook: I Am Still – The Party Edition

2024 • PG • 1 hr 52 mins
CONCERT, MUSIC
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BTS fans, get ready for the ultimate celebration! Jung Kook: I Am Still – The Party Edition brings the hit movie back to theaters with a bonus 20-minute singalong feature. Experience Jung Kook’s electrifying concert performances, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments like never before—this time, with a singalong to hits like “Seven (feat. Latto),” “3D (feat. Jack Harlow),” and “Standing Next to You.”

Gather your fellow ARMY members for one last chance to see Jung Kook shine on the big screen, capturing his rise to global stardom and heartfelt moments with fans. It’s a cinema party you won’t want to miss!

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:

Joker: Folie à Deux

2024 • R-16 • 2 hrs 18 mins
CRIME, DRAMA, THRILLER
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The Substance

2024 • R-16 • 2 hrs 18 mins
DRAMA, HORROR, SCIENCE FICTION
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Transformers One

2024 • PG • 1 hr 43 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, FAMILY, SCIENCE FICTION
GET SHOWTIMES

This week’s movies offer a little bit of everything—action-packed thrillers, sci-fi spectacles, emotional dramas, and fun animated adventures. Whether you’re looking for edge-of-your-seat suspense or heartwarming stories, there’s no shortage of entertainment at the cinema this week. Plus, K-pop fans can look forward to a party event with Jung Kook: I Am Still! Which one are you adding to your watchlist?

October 9, 2024
“Smile 2” Delivers Bolder, Nastier, and Bloodier Horrors – Uncut, R-18 in Cinemas October 16

Writer, director, and producer Parker Finn is back with a vengeance in Smile 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the psychological horror hit Smile. This time around, he’s pulling out all the stops to deliver a chilling experience that is, in his own words, “way more off the rails.” Bigger, nastier, and bloodier than its predecessor, Smile 2 promises to shock audiences with its relentless tension, terrifying visuals, and intense storyline.

“The sequel goes bigger, it goes bolder,” Finn teases. “Everything you loved about the first film, we do that ten times bigger.”

Go Behind the Scenes of Smile 2

For a sneak peek into the making of the film, join Parker Finn and lead star Naomi Scott in a behind-the-scenes featurette.

In the Smile universe, the terror stems from a deadly curse that transfers from one victim to the next, each forced to end their life in front of a witness with a bone-chilling smile. The curse then takes hold of the witness, playing sinister tricks on their mind and slowly distorting their reality. It’s a concept that captured the imagination—and fears—of audiences worldwide.

“We watched that happen in the first film, and I wanted to find new ways to trick both Skye and the audience,” says Finn.

A Dark Tale of Fame and Fear

This time, Smile 2 centers on Skye Riley, a global pop superstar poised to kick off her world tour. But as she prepares for life in the spotlight, her world begins to unravel. Haunted by strange and inexplicable occurrences, Skye must navigate the pressure of fame while battling her growing fear. The tension builds as the stakes skyrocket, leaving Skye – and the audience – teetering on the edge of sanity.

To play the multifaceted role of Skye, Finn and his team needed someone with a broad range of talents. Enter Naomi Scott, best known for her standout roles in Aladdin and Charlie’s Angels. Finn shares that Scott was the perfect choice for the role:

“She can do everything,” he says, describing Scott as the embodiment of Skye’s public and private personas.

Scott herself praised Finn’s confident direction: “What I love about Parker was how confident the filmmaking was,” says Scott. “It really does run the gamut of a more internal movie to just being completely unhinged.”

Pushing Horror Boundaries

Smile 2 producer Wyck Godfrey assures that the sequel stays true to the terrifying narrative of the original film while significantly raising the bar. “Parker designed Smile to be experienced entirely through Rose’s (main character in the first film, played by Sosie Bacon) point of view. As a result, every element of the look and feel of the film stemmed directly from that character,” shares Godfrey. “Smile 2 takes a similar approach but with a troubled, world-famous pop star in Skye at the center, it’s all turned up to 11.”

With a storyline that balances psychological horror and visceral scares, Smile 2 is set to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience. The film dives deeper into the curse’s powers and the ways it manipulates reality, keeping both Skye and the audience questioning what’s real.

A Terrifying Cast

The chilling new chapter stars Naomi Scott alongside a talented cast that includes Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Peter Jacobson, Ray Nicholson, Dylan Gelula, Raúl Castillo, and Kyle Gallner. Directed and written by Parker Finn, Smile 2 is produced by Marty Bowen, Wyck Godfrey, Isaac Klausner, Parker Finn, and Robert Salerno.

Mark Your Calendar: October 16

Smile 2 is rated R-18 and will be released in Philippine cinemas – completely uncut – on October 16. Are you ready to face the terror? Don’t miss out on the most chilling horror event of the year.

Follow the buzz online with hashtags #Smile2 and #SmileMovie, and tag @paramountpicsph to join the conversation!

_{Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”}

October 7, 2024
“The Wild Robot” Dominates Box Office, Wins Hearts with 98% Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes

DreamWorks Animation has once again delivered an animated masterpiece! The highly anticipated adaptation of Peter Brown’s award-winning and best-selling novel, The Wild Robot, debuted at the top of the U.S. box office with an impressive $35 million opening weekend. The film has received widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences, earning a stunning 98% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Critics Applaud the Film’s Emotional Depth and Visual Brilliance

DiscussingFilm hailed The Wild Robot as “an instant classic,” noting that DreamWorks Animation is continuing its “hot streak” with this film. Their review praises it as “undoubtedly one of the best animated films of the year,” solidifying its place as a standout cinematic experience for all ages.

Vulture’s review singles out the voice acting of Academy Award®-winner Lupita Nyong’o, who brings Roz, the titular robot, to life. “Nyong’o is a star who already has an Oscar (and should probably have a second), but she does some of her best, most challenging work here,” they write. Her performance, coupled with the film’s gorgeous visuals, transforms The Wild Robot into a heartwarming and unforgettable family movie.

Emotional Connection Resonates with Audiences

Parents and families alike are finding an emotional connection with The Wild Robot. Nerdist awarded the film a perfect five stars, with one reviewer sharing a deeply personal reflection: ““While I know this is not a reflection of its quality, on a personal level as a dad The Wild Robot leveled me. I was tearing up throughout the film. And when it ended I wanted to go straight home to hug my son. I’ve never seen any film better capture what its like to be a parent. This movie understands on an intimate level the challenges and rewards of having a kid,” they write.

A Feast for the Eyes

Visually, The Wild Robot stands shoulder-to-shoulder with recent animated hits. Total Film highlighted the movie’s stunning artistry, stating, “The most striking thing about The Wild Robot is how it continues mainstream animation’s ongoing visually inventive streak (the Spider-Verse movies, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish). This CG-animated film has a sumptuous, painterly quality that magics brushstrokes out of pixels. It’s delightful to gawp at, and makes the ideal canvas for the tech-meets-nature story.”

A Star-Studded Cast Bringing the Wild to Life

The voice cast of The Wild Robot boasts an impressive roster of talent. Lupita Nyong’o leads as Roz, supported by Emmy and Golden Globe nominee Pedro Pascal as the clever fox Fink, Emmy winner Catherine O’Hara as Pinktail the opossum, and Oscar® nominee Bill Nighy as the wise goose Longneck. Rising star Kit Connor plays Brightbill, Roz’s adoptive son, while Stephanie Hsu portrays Vontra, a fellow robot who intersects with Roz’s journey.

Other standout voices include pop-culture icon Mark Hamill, Matt Berry, and Ving Rhames, adding further depth and charm to this enchanting tale.

Ready to Go Wild?

The Wild Robot is set to take audiences in the Philippines on a thrilling, emotional journey when it opens in cinemas on October 9. Whether you’re drawn in by its stunning visuals, heartfelt storytelling, or powerhouse voice performances, this film promises to leave a lasting impression.

About The Wild Robot

Based on Peter Brown’s beloved novel, The Wild Robot follows Roz, a shipwrecked robot who awakens on a remote island. Faced with the challenge of survival in a harsh natural environment, Roz must learn to adapt and build relationships with the island’s animal inhabitants. In a heartwarming twist, Roz becomes the adoptive parent of a young gosling, Brightbill, leading to touching moments of love, sacrifice, and personal growth.

Follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for exclusive content and updates. Join the conversation online using #TheWildRobotMoviePH!

October 4, 2024
Movie Review: Songs in the Key of Bleak: A Review of ‘Joker: Folies a Deux’

‘Joker: Folie a Deux,’ as expressed by director and co-writer Todd Phillips, is meant to put the focus on Gotham’s fascination with what Arthur Fleck did in the first film, a means to explore the dangers of turning news into entertainment and how his mental breakdown, captured in the public sphere through a televised trial is symbolic to the world’s current deterioration of morals and values. The film, the sequel to the massively successful ‘Joker,’ which won Joaquin Phoenix an Academy Award for Best Actor, follows the events of the first film and finds Arthur Fleck in Arkham Prison and Hospital, awaiting trial for the five murders he committed. He’s become sort of a celebrity, having killed a man on live television, Phillips imagines that he has awakened something among the desperate of the population. Trouble starts when Arthur meets Lee (Lady Gaga) at a rehabilitation program that uses music as a form of therapy, and he discovers that she’s a fan.

While there a number of scenes that supports Phillips intention to showcase the public’s fascination with Fleck and how his trial is stirring up the worst in people, most of the 138-minute running-time is spent on Arthur and Lee’s dangerous bond. Lee emboldens Arthur, makes him feel seen and loved and, by doing so, pushes him to be more confident, more like the Joker. Fusing the music program into Fleck’s psychosis, it drives him to sing – the musical numbers that play out in his head – and it seems that only Lee can hear it as she also sings along. ‘Joker: Folie a Deux’ is just as much a musical as it is a bleak commentary on mental health (and the lack of support for people who suffer from it), justice, and our twisted media representation that turns criminals into celebrities.

Just like the first film, ‘Joke: Folies a Deux’ is grounded by stellar performances. I may not have liked the first movie, but Phoenix had a transformative portrayal of Arthur Fleck, creating a mesmerizing study of pain and loneliness with his entire body. He does it again, and this time throws some incredible vocal performances in the songs. We know he can sing from his performance of Johnny Cash in ‘Walk the Line’, but he uses none of that bravado or vocal strength here. He sings as Arthur Fleck, not a trained singer and he can go hoarse, he can get caught up in the emotions and the effect can be chilling. Same with Lady Gaga. As Lee, she is unhinged, and she has been quoted in interviews stating that she had to unlearn how to sing because Lee was not a trained singer. But in certain songs, when Arthur was fully consumed by his fantasy, Lady Gaga could let it rip; but when she was being restrained in her vocals for the most part, she was giving it her all in every other part.

Very little is actually explored on Lee’s past or her own psychosis. She is merely a fan, unhinged, maybe even sociopathic, but all she does is really push Arthur to the point that he takes on the Joker mantle. Why? It’s never really revealed but Lady Gaga infuses her with so much bravado that it doesn’t need to be explored. It’s there in the way she looks at him, the way she sings along, and the way she shifts when the story begins to turn another way.

Also adding to the film’s world is Brendan Gleeson as a prison warden who has equal parts soft and warm and tough and brutal. He is given moments that really steal the spotlight from Phoenix (and that’s hard). Also, Catherine Keener also gives a solid performance as Arthur’s lawyer, who genuinely seems worried about him and hopes that he gets the help that he needs.

But other than Keener’s lawyer or the few moments of Gleeson’s prison warden showing his humanity, there’s very little joy here in Phillips’ ‘Joker: Folies a Deux.’ The world is grey and cold and dark. Even when they enter into their musical numbers, there is an air of dread that permeates the scene, especially when you know that it’s really all in Arthur’s head. The connection that Arthur and Lee have that is at the crux of the film is actually detrimental effect on our protagonist so it’s not even something for the audience to root for. For a large portion of the film, it feels like we are meant to feel sorry for Arthur; despite the fact that he has killed six people in the previous installment. Yes, he needs psychiatric help, but the movie also positions that there’s none that is available for him to get.

This heaviness that hangs upon the film never ever lifts, and with over a dozen musical numbers that pretty much repeats the same themes over and over, ‘Joker: Folies a Deux’ feels a little belabored and bloated. It spends a good three quarters of the film saying the same thing and by the time it shifts to try and say something new, the audience feels a bit exhausted already that the connection is lost.

The film is well-made. The cinematography and the score are incredible. The musical arrangements are just stellar with Phoenix and Lady Gaga at the mic, killing every song. But the movie is overdrawn, spending too much time talking about the same thing that all that emotions start to dwindle halfway through its extended running time. By the time it attempts to say something different – something about redemption – it’s far too late in the movie and then it undercuts it again with more of its cynical and bleak depiction of the world coming in to further push Arthur to the brink.

For all its big themes and daring to be a musical above what it has already done since ‘Joker,’ ‘Joker: Folies a Deux’ gives off the feeling that this was more a vanity project than a full-on meditation on mental health or crime.

My Rating:

Joker: Folies a Deux is now showing! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.

October 4, 2024