Category: Movies

Blake Lively Shines as Lily Bloom in the Film “It Ends With Us”

Blake Lively shares how she discovered the novel: “I saw a window display of her books—Colleen Hoover, Colleen Hoover, Colleen Hoover,” recalls Blake Lively. From that moment, Lively knew she was part of something special with “It Ends With Us,” the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s #1 New York Times bestseller. “Her name was everywhere. She speaks to an audience—her voice resonates with people. The stories she tells and how she tells them reach out and grab so many people.”

Blake Lively on Her Role

Blake Lively plays the main role of Lily Bloom, a young woman who’s determined to break free from her past, but finds herself falling into the same patterns she grew up with as she falls in love. Lively is also a producer for “It Ends With Us,” captivated by its story. “I just fell in love with Lily,” Lively says. “I wanted to tell her story because her emotional roadmap was so clear to me, yet there are so many ways she could be portrayed. I knew if I took her on, I would make sure she wasn’t a delicate flower, but a woman with both feet firmly on the ground. Someone in her skin. I thought it was important to see someone you think is settled in themselves get lost. It makes you realize you never really know what people are going through.”

Lively’s Unique Interpretation of Lily

Author Colleen Hoover believes Lively embodies Lily Bloom perfectly. Confident in Lively’s portrayal, Hoover shares, “Blake has many of the same qualities I admire in both Lily and my mother. To have her playing Lily demonstrates that each situation is unique. There’s no mold to fit.”

Lively’s interpretation of Lily is both powerful and relatable. “Lily is not a wilting lily,” she says. “She has both feet on the ground and her head screwed on tight—she has real spice and agency. But you can be a woman with confidence and agency and know better, and still not see all of the red flags that you should. When she meets Ryle, she sweeps him off his feet as much as he sweeps her off hers. It was important to create that level playing field, so that when the relationship goes off-kilter, it’s more confusing for her, because she believes in the equality of their partnership and their strength, as individuals and together.”

The Rewarding Experience of Portraying Lily

There was something rewarding in portraying a character that’s going through a healing journey, Lively shares as she explains why she took on the role. “Lily’s at a turning point in her life,” Lively says. “She’s just moved to Boston from her hometown in New England. She’s finally actualizing her dream of opening a flower shop. A major life event happens for her at the start of the movie, which brings up her past in significant ways. While coping with that, she meets someone she falls for almost instantly. She meets two ‘someones’ actually: a man and a new best female friend. Her shop is as wonderful as she imagined it to be, and her whole life is falling into place. Despite having a painful past, her future looks bright. And then, event after event, her life is upended in both beautiful and tragic ways. Her past enters her present in more ways than one, and she has to confront the entirety of her life’s most wonderful and awful experiences, all within the course of this film. It was mammoth to take on but deeply rewarding to tell a story so rich in the full spectrum of emotion.”

Experience the Emotional Journey

Watch the emotional journey of Lily Bloom as “It Ends With Us” arrives in Philippine cinemas on August 7.

About “It Ends With Us“

“It Ends With Us,” the first Colleen Hoover novel adapted for the big screen, tells the compelling story of Lily Bloom (Blake Lively), a woman who overcomes a traumatic childhood to embark on a new life in Boston and chase a lifelong dream of opening her own business. A chance meeting with charming neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni) sparks an intense connection, but as the two fall deeply in love, Lily begins to see sides of Ryle that remind her of her parents’ relationship. When Lily’s first love, Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar), suddenly reenters her life, her relationship with Ryle is upended, and Lily realizes she must learn to rely on her own strength to make an impossible choice for her future.

Directed by Justin Baldoni and produced by Alex Saks, Jamey Heath, Blake Lively, and Christy Hall, the film stars Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, Jenny Slate, Hasan Minhaj, Amy Morton, and Brandon Sklenar. The screenplay by Christy Hall is based on the book by Colleen Hoover.

In cinemas August 7, “It Ends With Us” is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #ItEndsWithUsMovie @columbiapicph.

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

July 31, 2024
New Movies This Week: ‘BLACKPINK World Tour Born Pink,’ ‘Trap,’ and more!

Get ready for an exciting movie-filled Wednesday! Whether you’re in the mood for the electric energy of a world-renowned pop band, a nail-biting thriller, or a deep exploration into dramatic tales, the latest selection has you covered. From the high-energy spectacle of the ‘Blackpink World Tour [Born Pink] In Cinemas‘, that brings the global pop phenomenon of BLACKPINK’s tour to the big screen, to the gripping suspense of ‘Trap‘, where a seemingly fun concert spirals into a sinister plot. Animation enthusiasts can dive into ‘Blue Lock The Movie – Episode Nagi‘, a thrilling story of ambition and competition, while horror fans will be on the edge of their seats with ‘Consumed‘, a tale of survival against dark forces in the wilderness. Rounding out the selection is ‘How To Slay A Nepo Baby‘, a thriller set against a backdrop of luxury and peril, and ‘Mother Teresa & Me‘, a profound drama exploring the life lessons of one of history’s most revered figures. Don’t miss out on some fan favorites still playing in theaters – catch them before they’re gone! Grab your movie squad, score that extra-buttered popcorn, and enjoy the latest hits.

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

Blackpink World Tour [Born Pink] In Cinemas

2024 • PG • 1 hr 31 mins
DOCUMENTARY, MUSIC
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Celebrate BLACKPINK’s 8th anniversary with their BORN PINK tour, now on the big screen! This documentary showcases the electrifying performances that captivated 1.8 million fans worldwide. With record-breaking attendance and jaw-dropping stage presence, BLACKPINK brings their global concert tour experience to cinemas, allowing fans to relive the magic or witness it for the first time. Don’t miss this chance to see Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa as they dominate the stage and your heart.

Blue Lock The Movie – Episode Nagi

2024 • PG • 1 hr 29 mins
ACTION, ANIMATION, DRAMA
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Enter the high-stakes world of the BLUE LOCK Project with Nagi Seishiro and a cast of the finest strikers from across the country. This animated feature takes you on a journey of ambition, skill, and intense competition as Nagi aims to become the best alongside his friend Mikage Reo. The movie’s stunning animation and dynamic action sequences promise to captivate fans of sports dramas and anime alike. Get ready to cheer for your favorite characters as they chase their dreams on the big screen.

Consumed

2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 29 mins
HORROR
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Jay and Beth’s celebratory camping trip takes a horrifying turn in Consumed. As they navigate the woods, they find themselves trapped between a deranged madman and a terrifying, skin-stealing monster. This horror film blends psychological tension with outright terror, making for an unsettling and thrilling cinematic experience. Can they escape the horrors that await them, or will they become the next victims?

How To Slay A Nepo Baby

2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 46 mins
Thriller
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Follow a group of affluent friends as they head to Sagada for a weekend getaway. What starts as a lavish celebration soon descends into chaos and danger. How To Slay A Nepo Baby explores themes of entitlement and survival against the backdrop of a thrilling storyline. With a cast of characters ranging from the influential ‘Queen Bee’ to the humble nanny, this film offers a compelling look at social dynamics and the perils of privilege. Expect twists, turns, and a suspenseful narrative that will keep you guessing until the very end.

Mother Teresa & Me

2024 • PG • 1 hr 58 mins
DRAMA, HISTORY
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Explore the life of one of the most revered figures in modern history through the eyes of Kavita, a young woman seeking solace in Calcutta. “Mother Teresa & Me” juxtaposes Kavita’s personal struggles with the profound journey of Mother Teresa, exploring themes of faith, perseverance, and compassionate love. This historical drama not only illuminates the saint’s life but also offers a touching narrative about finding hope and purpose amidst adversity. It’s a heartfelt and inspiring story that will resonate with audiences of all ages.

Trap

2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 44 mins
THRILLER
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What starts as an innocent outing quickly turns into a nightmare for a father and his teenage daughter attending a pop concert. Trap plunges you into a sinister event where survival instincts are tested. The intense atmosphere and unexpected twists will keep you on the edge of your seat as you navigate this dark and gripping thriller. Will they escape the danger that lurks, or will they fall victim to the trap set before them?

FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING

Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:

Deadpool & Wolverine

2024 • R-16 • 2 hrs 7 mins
ACTION, COMEDY, SCIENCE FICTION
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The merc with a mouth is back, and this time, he’s not alone! Wade Wilson, a.k.a. Deadpool, finds the monotony of civilian life disrupted when a new threat emerges. Teaming up with a gruff Wolverine, the duo is set for a series of misadventures filled with snark, action, and unexpected camaraderie. Expect a blend of relentless humor, thrilling fight sequences, and the kind of chemistry only Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman can deliver.

Twisters

2024 • PG • 2 hrs 2 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, THRILLER
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Imagine the most extreme weather events colliding in one epic showdown. “Twisters” brings together former storm chaser Kate Carter and thrill-seeking influencer Tyler Owens as they navigate through the deadliest storm season recorded. With lives and legacies at stake, the race against nature’s clock is nothing short of breathtaking. Will they outmaneuver the cataclysmic weather, or will the storms rewrite their fates?

All My Friends Are Dead

2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 27 mins
HORROR, THRILLER
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Longlegs

2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 40 mins
CRIME, HORROR, MYSTERY
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Despicable Me 4

2024 • PG • 1 hr 35 mins
ACTION, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY
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Inside Out 2

2024 • PG • 1 hr 36 mins
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, DRAMA, FAMILY
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With such a vibrant mix of genres and stories, there’s every reason to head to the cinema this week. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling mystery, a laugh-out-loud comedy, or a romantic escape, these new releases offer captivating experiences for all tastes. So don’t miss out—grab your popcorn, pick your plot, round up your crew, and head to your nearest cinema to catch these must-watch films in action.

July 31, 2024
MOVIE REVIEW: Jackman shines again in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine,’ which manages an emotional punch despite more of the same

If you’re a fan of the Deadpool character and Ryan Reynolds’ brand of comedy, then this movie is really right up your alley. Because director Shawn Levy and his pool of writers – there are five of them, including Reynolds himself – makes sure there’s a lot of vulgar jokes, sexual innuendos, blood, gore, unnecessary violence, and, of course, the breaking of the fourth wall, meta commentary that the franchise of ‘Deadpool’ has become synonymous with. With the character finally joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Reynolds, Levy, and the rest of the crew could not wait to take shots at their new studio and openly discuss the gravity of it all.

It’s so in-your-face that it feels like the movie’s plot was just hurriedly made up so that they can set up these gags and moments for the meta jokes to come in. I’m really not the audience for this. It feels more like a comedy sketch show than a movie and I don’t have the sense of humor to enjoy a fully choreographed fight scene where Deadpool fights an army of people and making moves that are all sexually coded while dancing to NSYNC’s ‘Bye Bye Bye.’ Yes, we get it, he has a depraved sense of humor. We saw this in the first two movies, what else is there to show?

‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ overextends its opening in an exposition-heavy act one, which they try to keep energetic by throwing in as much jokes as they can, to set up a quest for Deadpool to visit alternate timelines to find a Logan, a Wolverine, to save his timeline from fading into nothing. A man from the Time Variant Authority (introduced in the Disney+ show ‘Loki’) called Mr. Paradox (Matthew Macfadyen) offers him a chance to enter the “sacred timeline” where the Avengers can be found but he would have to let his universe die. In a bid to save the friends he has made in the past two movies, Deadpool takes a machine that allows him to travel dimensions to look for a Wolverine (Hugh Jackman), who is a being so important it can hold a universe together. Deadpool’s universe is dying because Logan died during the film of the same name, ‘Logan.’ Without him, that universe is set to become nothing.

In the search for a Wolverine, the film manages to showcase Jackman in multiple versions of the character from different eras of the comics. It’s a fan service moment that actually works – because knowing what we know about the MCU – this may be Jackman’s last time to play that character and it’s nice to see him in all the versions; even though Reynolds keeps teasing that the MCU will have him play the character “until he’s 90.”

When Deadpool finally finds a Logan who he can bring him back with him, he is told that the Wolverine that he brought was “the worst one in all the multiverses.” Mr. Paradox then sends both Deadpool and Wolverine into the Void, a place where all variants find themselves before they are reduced into nothing. Deadpool and Logan then face it off in a long battle that plays for the brutality and the gore that one can conjure up between two characters who regenerate instantaneously. After a while, the pointlessness of the match up becomes very apparent. It’s then the film shows the two protagonists that there is a way-out of The Void.

Here is when the film gets interesting. Because The Void is the place where all the unnecessary variants and storylines have come to be erased and the film subverts its own narrative by being a love letter to all the superhero movies that 20th Century Fox made before the Disney acquisition. Act two of ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ finds space for certain characters (and the actors who played them) a chance for one last moment before they completely bow out.

This is what highlights what I didn’t like about the film. Because everything that the subverted narrative does is wonderful. The characters that are brought back – and even some that never made it to production – have a chance to remind us of the potential and the promise that each of these characters had when they first showed up in our screens. It’s an emotional hit that is even amplified by the way by which Jackman navigates his character, playing off a version of the character he immortalized, that is lacking in a narrative that he got to play out in different films. When the camera is on Jackman and the storyline, the film feels important, like it has something to say.

But every time it goes to Deadpool, the film has to stop to give him more time to be what he has been for the past two movies. If it’s your humor, great, but it brings nothing to the table and it is just more of the same.

Luckily, Jackman, Macfadyen, and Emma Corrin as Casandra Nova, give the film the gravitas that it needed to sell the emotional point that makes all the jokes worth telling. There are actually more out there but I don’t want to spoil it.

The issue of irreverence is that the film is only irreverent in the way that it makes fun of itself and comic book movies. But it’s never really irreverent in the ways that matter. Deadpool is still a hero – no matter how many times he tries to say that he’s not – and no number of dirty jokes, sexual innuendos, and gratuitous violence will give the Deadpool franchise any real danger or unpredictability. It can only be as irreverent as Deadpool knowing that Ryan Reynolds is playing him. But to really break from formulaic narrative structures, acceptable moral codes, and capitalist inclinations for nostalgia and sentimentality, ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ doesn’t offer much in that department. In fact, the whole franchise never really did.

My Rating:

Deadpool & Wolverine is now showing! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.

July 31, 2024
Saleka Shyamalan on Crafting Concert Songs for M. Night Shyamalan’s Thriller “Trap”

“It was crazy – we basically prepped a stadium tour,” shares Saleka Shyamalan about her experience working on the songs and scenes for “Trap,” the latest thriller directed, written, and produced by her father, M. Night Shyamalan.

A Thrilling Plot

“Trap” tells the gripping story of a father and daughter, played by Josh Hartnett and Ariel Donoghue, who attend a pop concert only to discover they are part of a dark and sinister plan. The concert is actually a trap set to capture a notorious serial killer known as The Butcher.

Intricate Production Design

Saleka delves into the elaborate process: “There was no detail left out. There were the songs, full choreography, full costumes, full screens, all the transitions, multiple different sets. A lot of time was spent putting that together. It wasn’t the normal production design for a movie.”

Crafting the Concert Experience

“It was, ‘All right, let’s make a tour. What is this character’s tour like? What’s the opening song? Where does it go from there? What are the points where the audience is surprised, having fun – the ups and downs? What is the order of the songs to create an arc for the show within the movie?’” Saleka explains. She emphasizes the dual role of the songs in the film: they needed to advance the story while also serving as a musical score, since a significant portion of the film lacks traditional scoring. “The songs have to function in both ways. It was fun – super challenging, but fun.”

Visual and Choreographic Magic

Creating the sold-out concert for Lady Raven, played by Saleka, involved advanced visual effects. Visual effects supervisor Will Towle utilized light detection and ranging scans to craft a 3D model of the venue. Performers were filmed against a green screen, and 2D sprites of concertgoers were created. These techniques multiplied 300 concertgoers to fill the 15,000-seat arena where the film’s pivotal scenes occur.

Choreographer Cora Kozaris brought the dance sequences to life. “The concert scenes are playing to an arena that holds 15,000 people, so all the movement has to be extremely exaggerated. Larger than life. The dancers are coming with huge pulses of energy,” Kozaris describes. The choreography also reflected the intimate details of the characters’ off-stage struggles, intertwining with Lady Raven’s songs to enhance the narrative tension.

Inspiration Behind “Trap“

M. Night Shyamalan reveals that the film’s concept was inspired by conversations with his daughter, Saleka, about music and movies. This collaboration brought a unique depth to the film’s musical elements.

“Trap,” distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, opens in cinemas on July 31. Don’t miss this thrilling cinematic experience! #TrapMovie

July 30, 2024
MOVIE REVIEW: Unapologetically mainstream, ‘Twisters’ is still a fun ride

As big-budget mainstream movies go, ‘Twisters’ has everything going for it. A disaster movie that goes bigger than its predecessor, it’s got two engaging leads – Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell – a terrifying natural disaster that lends well to cinema, the budget to make it all work, and a director who knows how to balance the tone so that it delivers just the right amount of cheese while still highlighting the very human element that is at the center of any cataclysm.

‘Twisters’ is about Kate Carter (Daisy Edgar-Jones), who suffers a terrible tragedy while doing research on how to decrease a tornado’s intensity. She’s portrayed as someone who is just naturally gifted with an instinct for the weather, but that tragedy has left her at a desk job in New York as a meteorologist. She’s asked to come back to her home state of Oklahoma when an old friend wants to continue the research with cutting edge technology. He needs her to help them find the tornados.

Kate Carter (Daisy Edgar-Jones)

As she returns to Oklahoma, she finds herself in the middle of an unprecedented event: a tornado season that is sprouting twisters almost on a daily basis. Kate is surprised to see that the present day is filled with tornado-chasers, including the self-possessed media celebrity Tyler Owens, who chases after tornados and streams it live on the internet.

Tyler Owens (Glen Powell)

For Tyler, he’s smitten by her and later on, intrigued by her knowledge of the weather. But she’s pegged him as a clout chaser of the worst kind and has nothing to do with him. Their rivalry leads them to clash and then later bond. Revelations are revealed that forces Kate to face her tragic past while a major storm is about to happen that threatens to turn everything upside and inside out.

‘Twisters’ is fast-paced and sometimes in a rush to push characters forward without really taking its time to establish stronger motivations. It’s the rhythm and speed of a commercial film. It wants to get us straight into the action and watch the sparks fly between Kate and Tyler.

What’s great about Lee Isaac Chung’s direction (from a screenplay by Mark L. Smith) is that he never really highlights the blossoming romance between the two lead characters. It’s there but it’s not angling for center stage. Chung is more focused on Kate’s own complex emotions regarding the tornadoes while trying to deconstruct the idea of Tyler Owens’ own interest as a twister-chasing internet celebrity. For the most part, it’s Tyler who is actively chasing Kate, but she has demons to face.

And then, Chung and Smith also manage to bring us to the human side of things: the destruction that’s caused by such a meteorological event. It attempts to bring up the ugliness of capitalism in a predictable manner but doesn’t delve too much into it so as to tip the balance and keeps the film straight into the spectacle of the tornadoes themselves. While Powell and Edgar-Jones are remarkable, watching them work is a joy, but the true stars here are the CGI effects of the twisters and the action sequences that involve them.

The film treats these weather phenomena like Godzilla—they are monstrous and beautiful at the same time. The fascination these characters have with them become clear the moment you see it in your comfortable cinema seats. To watch them throw themselves at it, whether it’s for the likes or for research, the experience is quite enjoyable.

(from left) Kate (Daisy Edgar-Jones), Javi (Anthony Ramos), and Tyler (Glen Powell), in Twisters directed by Lee Isaac Chung-min

The climax is insane but the science that provides a solution is sketchy, at best (and with further reading on the internet, is quite improbable), but it looks great on screen. And while I’m not expecting a deep story from a movie about tornado-chasers, I am a little frustrated of Hollywood’s fascination of making professional scientists and PhD holders stuffy and boring while untrained professionals with a lot of experience are treated as fun and just as good. I’m not saying it’s not possible, but it adds to a class division that is trite and overused and quite dangerous in this era of anti-intellectualism.

But outside of that, it’s a fun ride. I don’t know if I’ll remember much after weeks have passed but Edgar-Jones and Powell are in my radar and very excited to see what they come up with next.

My Rating:

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

July 27, 2024
MOVIE REVIEW: Frightening in refreshing ways, ‘Longlegs’ suffers from being genuinely scary and nothing else

Elegantly directed, writer and director Osgood Perkins makes full use of his technical prowess to make every frame of the horror film ‘Longlegs’ absolutely panic-inducing. With flashbacks done with a tight aspect ratio, completely cutting our view and trapping the subject of the camera in a tight frame, we feel that whatever is out there is right at the corner. Utilizing an over-dramatic score that punctuates the jump scares (sometimes even leading it), it makes the whole experience watching the movie so frightening that it is fun. When the film goes to present time, he bathes his scenes in darkness and shadows. There’s always a chance something is going to come out, and with the first opening jump scare catching us completely off guard at the start, we really feel vulnerable throughout this movie.

‘Longlegs’ is about a serial killer, who has been killing families for decades. Hunted by the FBI, Lee Harker, who may have psychic abilities, is put on the case as her abilities may open up new leads. She does but because her connection to the case is much stronger than anyone even realizes, even her.

LONGLEGS Maika Monroe Courtesy of NEON

Maika Monroe is excellent as Agent Lee. She’s guarded, extremely stiff, as if she’s about to burst at any time. She’s taciturn and not very good with people, but she does get some supernatural feeling when something is amiss. When put on the case of ‘Longlegs,’ her anxieties double. Her tenuous relationship with her mother (Alicia Witt), whom she has not seen in a long time, grounds her character to some level of humanity but the distance between them also betrays a darker secret that is lying in wait.

LONGLEGS Maika Monroe Courtesy of NEON

Nicolas Cage plays the titular Longlegs and the make-up and prosthetics makes him almost unrecognizable in a quick glance. It’s only later when Perkins finally gives him long close-ups that you realize it’s him underneath. But the glimpses we get tells us that he is fully committed to bringing out whatever frightening symbolisms his Longlegs can take. It’s a virtuoso performance from an unpredictable actor who has used his off-screen infamy to his advantage in these very off-kilter roles.

Playing out like a police procedural, we follow Lee Harker’s investigation into Longlegs while trying to decipher her strange visions and her undetermined connection to the case, though the savvier viewer will have figured it out quickly. The tale it tells is of a world gone crazy, depicting brutal violence committed by husbands to their families.

BTS2 LONGLEGS Osgood Perkins, Maika Monroe, Blair Underwood | Courtesy of NEON

As the film unfolds, it begins to allude heavily into the occult but never really brings religion into the mix. It’s evil for evil’s sake and we hope that Agent Lee Harker has the determination and the strength to see it through.

The film is filled with terrifying moments, when you know that Longlegs is just there, just in the darkness in the back of Osgood Perkins’ frame. When he takes a long shot, he always ensures there’s an open door or frame leading to another room just in the back. It always gives you the feeling something is going to come in. You’re always on your toes. If he does not have these eerie long shots, he gives you really tight shots that prohibits you from seeing an attack if one will come. The effect allows the audience to feel the paranoia Agent Lee is feeling and the effect is amazing.

BTS1 LONGLEGS Osgood Perkins DP Andres Arochi | Courtesy of NEON

But when it reaches its third act, that build-up of tension ends up in a third act exposition that kind of kills the energy before resuming for its big finale, which is good, but doesn’t have the same punch because the energy leading up to it was stalled. And at the end of the film, we’re left with the fun feeling of having been scared out of our wits but with nothing really to hold on to. It makes no commentary of the world around us. The satanistic imagery and symbolism does not outrightly figure in as a metaphor for anything real-world that grounds ‘Longlegs’ to anything significant. Despite its fantastic filmmaking techniques, the material in itself sorts of falls as just entertainment. It’s not a bad thing, but you kind of wish that it could punch up just a little bit since it did everything else right.

My Rating:

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

July 27, 2024
Don Lee Leads Korea’s Crime Busters to the Philippines in “The Roundup: Punishment”

The wait is over! Korea’s action-packed blockbuster, The Roundup: Punishment, starring Don Lee, is taking its thrilling adventure to the Philippines.

Unraveling the Plot

In this borderless action-comedy, The Roundup: Punishment dives into the controversial world of online gambling, known locally as POGOs (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators). Ma Seok-Do (Don Lee) and his team are on a mission to track down Baek Chang-gi (Kim Moo-yul), a notorious Korean criminal now operating an online gambling empire in the Philippines.

The Villain’s New Playground

Baek Chang-gi, an ex-special forces mercenary, has taken control of Korea’s illegal online gambling business through abduction, confinement, assault, and murder. Meanwhile, back in Korea, IT genius CEO Chang Dong-cheol (Lee Dong-hwi) is plotting even more significant schemes.

Evolving Action and Characters

In a recent interview with Variety, Don Lee shared, “I want the action to evolve from film to film and the story to keep up with current times. It’s important that the characters evolve further, becoming wiser with each sequel.”

The Team’s Philippine Adventure

Following the murder of a young Korean professional who escaped Chang-gi’s gambling operations, beast cop Seok-do’s team takes to the streets of the Philippines. Riding jeepneys and forming alliances with local police, the team, including returning character Jang I-su (Park Ji-hwan) disguised as a local, sets up an illegal online casino to trap the gambling kingpins involved in the abduction and murder of missing Korean citizens.

Authentic Filipino Experience

The Philippine setting amplifies the film’s scale and captures the reality of borderless, turfless online crime. Scenes featuring the main villain’s operations, including the Emperor Casino and various hideouts, were filmed in locations such as Angeles and Tarlac City.

Box Office Triumph

Hailed as Korea’s number one action franchise, The Roundup: Punishment has dominated the Korean box office for four consecutive weeks, amassing a total of $75 million (source: Variety). It is the fastest Korean film to surpass 11 million moviegoers in just 33 days (source: Times of India).

A Beloved Franchise

The Roundup series has carved its niche as Korea’s most-loved crime and action blockbuster. The action-packed and comedy-filled film has become the third most-watched rated-R movie in Korea. In the Philippines, The Roundup: Punishment is rated R16 by the MTRCB.

Don Lee’s Signature Action

The franchise has left an indelible mark on Korean cinema, proving the success of a Korean film series. Don Lee’s portrayal of Detective Ma Seok-do, with his signature one-punch action and unique lines, alongside irreplaceable allies and villains, has captivated audiences worldwide.

Exclusive Philippine Release

Distributed by Black Cap Pictures, The Roundup: Punishment opens on August 14 exclusively at SM Cinemas. Follow Black Cap Pictures on FB @BlackCapPictures, IG @blackcappictures, YT @BlackCapPictures and on TikTok @blackcappicturesinc

July 26, 2024
Witness the Epic Beginning: New Trailer for “Transformers One” Unveiled at San Diego Comic-Con
Discover the untold origin of a legendary rivalry! Get ready to witness the story that reshaped our world with the new trailer for “Transformers One,” unveiled at San Diego Comic-Con. Starring Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson, and Keegan-Michael Key, this groundbreaking film opens exclusively in cinemas on September 18.

Official Synopsis

Transformers One reveals the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, two friends once bonded like brothers who ultimately became the fiercest of enemies. This first-ever fully CG-animated Transformers movie boasts an impressive voice cast including Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve Buscemi, Laurence Fishburne, and Jon Hamm.

Roll Out Date

Mark your calendars! Transformers One arrives in Philippine cinemas on September 18. Distributed by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures, this epic saga is sure to captivate audiences. Join the conversation using the hashtag #TransformersOne and tag @paramountpicsph on social media.

About Transformers One
- Directed by: Josh Cooley
- Based on: Hasbro’s Transformers™ Action Figures
- Story by: Andrew Barrer & Gabriel Ferrari
- Screenplay by: Eric Pearson and Andrew Barrer & Gabriel Ferrari
- Executive Producers: Steven Spielberg, Zev Foreman, Olivier Dumont, Bradley J. Fischer, B.J. Farmer, Matt Quigg
- Producers: Lorenzo di Bonaventura, p.g.a., Tom DeSanto & Don Murphy, Michael Bay, Mark Vahradian, p.g.a., Aaron Dem, p.g.a.
_{Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”}
July 26, 2024
“Speak No Evil” Trailer Unveils a Dream Vacation Turned Nightmare Starring James McAvoy

Imagine being invited by a charming British family you met on vacation to spend a weekend at their idyllic country estate. Sounds like a dream holiday, right? But what if this dream morphs into a psychological nightmare? In “Speak No Evil,” that’s precisely what happens.

A Suspense Thriller to Remember

From the renowned Blumhouse Productions, known for their knack for intense and gripping films, comes a new thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. “Speak No Evil” promises to haunt your thoughts long after the credits roll.

Stellar Cast

Starring the brilliant James McAvoy, alongside Mackenzie Davis and Scoot McNairy, this film dives deep into the unsettling dynamics between two families. McAvoy’s performance is nothing short of mesmerizing, ensuring that every twist and turn is felt viscerally by the audience.

Plot Overview

The story follows an American family who, after a delightful vacation encounter, accepts an invitation from their newfound British friends. The promise of a peaceful weekend soon unravels as sinister secrets and psychological games come to the forefront. What starts as a simple gathering turns into a gripping fight for survival.

Release Details

Mark your calendars! “Speak No Evil” will be haunting Philippine cinemas starting September 11, thanks to Universal Pictures International.

Stay Updated

Don’t miss out on the latest updates about “Speak No Evil.” Follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, UniversalPicturesPH on Instagram, and UniversalPicsPH on TikTok. Join the conversation with the hashtag #SpeakNoEvilPH.

July 25, 2024
New Movies This Week: ‘Deadpool & Wolverine,’ ‘All My Friends Are Dead,’ and more!

Rain or shine, the big screen is calling! This week’s fresh lineup of films is guaranteed to entertain. Ready for some adrenaline-pumping action? Deadpool & Wolverine is your go-to. Craving a good scare? All My Friends Are Dead will keep you on the edge of your seat. Or, if you’re in the mood for a thought-provoking drama, dive into the mysterious world of Sagrada Luna. Don’t miss out on some fan favorites still playing in theaters – catch them before they’re gone! Grab your movie squad, score that extra-buttered popcorn, and enjoy the latest hits. And with the nonstop rain, don’t forget to bring a jacket – it’s typhoon season!

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

Deadpool & Wolverine

2024 • R-16 • 2 hrs 7 mins
ACTION, COMEDY, SCIENCE FICTION
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The merc with a mouth is back, and this time, he’s not alone! Wade Wilson, a.k.a. Deadpool, finds the monotony of civilian life disrupted when a new threat emerges. Teaming up with a gruff Wolverine, the duo is set for a series of misadventures filled with snark, action, and unexpected camaraderie. Expect a blend of relentless humor, thrilling fight sequences, and the kind of chemistry only Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman can deliver.

All My Friends Are Dead

2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 27 mins
HORROR, THRILLER
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What starts as an ideal escape to a seemingly perfect Airbnb during the biggest music festival of the year turns into a nightmarish ordeal for a group of college friends. As they party into the night, the celebration soon morphs into horror when they begin to die one by one, each death mirroring the gruesome themes of the seven deadly sins. This thriller will keep you guessing and gasping, perfect for those who love a mix of suspense and old-fashioned horror tropes.

Sagrada Luna

2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 35 mins
DRAMA
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Set against the eerie backdrop of a secluded cult community, “Sagrada Luna” explores the lives of its enigmatic leaders and devoted followers. The film delves deep into themes of love, betrayal, and the sacrifices one must make in the face of overpowering allure. With its haunting narrative and powerful performances, this drama offers a compelling look at the human condition and the lengths to which people will go to belong and believe.

This week’s selection of movies provides a perfect blend of escapism and engagement. Each film not only offers a way to avoid the gloomy weather but also presents unique stories that resonate on various emotional levels. Whether you’re laughing at Deadpool’s antics, biting your nails during the horror of “All My Friends Are Dead,” or pondering the profound dilemmas in “Sagrada Luna,” these films offers to deliver memorable cinematic experiences.

FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING

Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:

Twisters

2024 • PG • 2 hrs 2 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, THRILLER
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Imagine the most extreme weather events colliding in one epic showdown. “Twisters” brings together former storm chaser Kate Carter and thrill-seeking influencer Tyler Owens as they navigate through the deadliest storm season recorded. With lives and legacies at stake, the race against nature’s clock is nothing short of breathtaking. Will they outmaneuver the cataclysmic weather, or will the storms rewrite their fates?

Longlegs

2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 40 mins
CRIME, HORROR, MYSTERY
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“Longlegs” spins a web of terror and mystery as an FBI agent (Maika Monroe) tracks a menacing serial killer using occult clues. Joining forces with seasoned actors Nicolas Cage and Blair Underwood, Monroe delves into a dark world that’s as intriguing as it is frightening. This thriller will not only challenge your mind but also spike your adrenaline.

Despicable Me 4

2024 • PG • 1 hr 35 mins
ACTION, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY
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The world’s favorite reformed supervillain, Gru, returns with his delightful brood and a new addition, Gru Jr., who seems to have taken up the family business of causing mischief. Packed with action, laughs, and heartwarming family moments, “Despicable Me 4” is perfect for a family outing. Expect chaos, laughter, and a fresh villainous duo that promises to keep Gru—and you—on your toes!

A Quiet Place: Day One

2024 • PG • 1 hr 40 mins
HORROR, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
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The Abbott family’s fight for survival in “A Quiet Place” left audiences on the edge of their seats. Now, “A Quiet Place: Day One” rewinds the clock, taking us right back to the moment the world went silent. Witness the initial chaos unfold in New York City as Evelyn Abbott (Lupita Nyong’o) fiercely protects her family from the arrival of blind, sound-hunting creatures. This sci-fi horror prequel promises heart-stopping suspense and a deeper understanding of the terrifying threat humanity faces.

Inside Out 2

2024 • PG • 1 hr 36 mins
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, DRAMA, FAMILY
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Check out the showtimes, grab your tickets online to avoid the downpour, and enjoy a cozy, thrilling, or dramatic night out. Whether you’re planning a solo venture, a date night, or an outing with friends, the cinema this week offers worlds away from the stormy blues. Whether you’re in for the action, the scares, or the drama, these films are sure to provide an engaging respite from the rainy day blues. See you at the cinema!

July 24, 2024