Category: Movies

  • Experience the Thrill of “Joker: Folie à Deux” – New Trailer Starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga Released!

    Experience the Thrill of “Joker: Folie à Deux” – New Trailer Starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga Released!

    From acclaimed writer, director, and producer Todd Phillips comes “Joker: Folie à Deux,” the eagerly awaited sequel to 2019’s Academy Award-winning “Joker.” The original film captivated audiences worldwide, earning over $1 billion at the global box office and securing its place as the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time. The new installment stars Joaquin Phoenix, reprising his Oscar-winning role as Arthur Fleck/Joker, alongside the multi-talented Lady Gaga, known for her sensational performance in “A Star Is Born.” Mark your calendars for October 2, as “Joker: Folie à Deux” hits cinemas and IMAX exclusively.

    Official Synopsis

    “Joker: Folie à Deux” finds Arthur Fleck institutionalized at Arkham, awaiting trial for his crimes as Joker. Struggling with his dual identity, Arthur not only stumbles upon true love but also discovers the music that’s always been inside him.

    About “Joker: Folie à Deux”

    Todd Phillips, who garnered Oscar nominations for directing, writing, and producing “Joker,” returns to helm “Joker: Folie à Deux.” The screenplay, crafted by Phillips and fellow Oscar nominee Scott Silver, is based on characters from DC Comics. Phillips produces alongside Oscar nominee Emma Tillinger Koskoff and Joseph Garner, with Lady Gaga serving as the music consultant. The film’s executive producers include Michael E. Uslan, Georgia Kacandes, Scott Silver, Mark Friedberg, and Jason Ruder.

    Joker Folie a Deux production still 1

    The star-studded cast features:

    Save the Date

    In cinemas October 2, “Joker: Folie à Deux” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company. Don’t miss this cinematic event that promises to be as groundbreaking and captivating as its predecessor.

    Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

  • FDCP gears up for first-ever FilmEC in September

    FDCP gears up for first-ever FilmEC in September

    The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) will hold the first-ever Film Education Convention (FilmEC) from September 17 to 18 at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in Manila.

    FDCP Chair and CEO Jose Javier Reyes

    The FilmEC is a two-day convention which brings together film creatives from the academe and in the industry, in line with the FDCP’s continuous efforts to champion film education in the country.

    The convention features screenings of selected student short films, panel discussions, plenary talks, film book sales, and networking opportunities for film students and educators.

    FDCP Chair and Chief Executive Officer Jose Javier “Direk Joey” Reyes explained that the activity-filled event aims “to gather both teachers and students of film to converge, get to know one another and engage in conversations that will break barriers of language or institutional representation.”

    FDCP Project Development Officer Korina Dela Cruz

    The Academic Film Society has created an organizing committee, comprised of nine members from various AFS-registered universities and colleges to assist in preparing for and promoting the event.

    They consist of Alec Berame, DLS-CSB; Patrick Campos, University of the Philippines Film Institute; David Corpuz, Mapúa University; Hector Barretto Calma, iACADEMY; Catherine Cequeña, Adamson University; Kareen Gancio, West Visayas State University; Maricon Montajes, UP Mindanao; Stanley Rovira, University of Makati; and Christina Stella Ustaris, Far Eastern University.

    FDCP Project Development Officers Korina Dela Cruz, Jen-Lopez Marcos, and Marie Ira, Education Head Rica Arevalo, and Education Consultant Seymour Sanchez also attended the AFS meeting.

    UPFI Prof. Patrick Campos

    The FDCP will also host a series of pocket events, which includes student film screenings, talkback sessions, and film workshops in universities and Cinematheque Centres nationwide, to promote the convention.

    AFS has curated a selection of student short films followed by talkback sessions with the filmmakers at Cinematheque Centre Manila last July 19 and at University of Makati on August 27, with more locations to be announced before the convention.

    FDCP and the Filipino Screenwriters Guild (FSG) will also continue their regional screenwriting workshop for beginners. Five slots per region are open to AFS members in Iloilo, Negros, and Davao, aged 18 years old and above, with no professional screenwriting experience.

    FDCP Project Development Officers Marie Ira Jen Lopez Marcos and Korina Dela Cruz

    “We’re here to learn, immerse, and understand film education in the Philippines, exposing newcomers to real-world filmmaking,” Direk Joey stressed.

    AFS member-schools have access to the FDCP’s Student Film Assistance Program (SFAP) and Film School workshops and specialized training programs, references, artifacts, and films available under its media library, mentors and resource persons for film education component, film exhibition platforms including Cinematheque Centres nationwide and JuanFlix: The FDCP Channel, FDCP ratings and permits, school event promotions, and other benefits.

  • M. Night Shyamalan Praises Josh Hartnett’s “Amazing Performance” in “Trap,” Hitting Cinemas on July 31

    M. Night Shyamalan Praises Josh Hartnett’s “Amazing Performance” in “Trap,” Hitting Cinemas on July 31

    “Trap,” the latest thriller from the brilliant mind of director M. Night Shyamalan, tells the riveting story of a father and daughter who attend a pop concert only to realize they’re at the center of a dark and sinister event. How did this thriller about a serial killer trapped in a concert venue come to life?

    A Family Collaboration

    “‘Trap’ was created by me and my daughter Saleka from our conversations together about music and movies,” Shyamalan proudly shares. Saleka, who plays Lady Raven in the film, also wrote the fictional artist’s songs featured in the concert. This unique father-daughter collaboration brings a fresh and personal touch to the film’s narrative.

    Saleka’s Insight

    Saleka, a professional singer-songwriter, reflects on her father’s passion for filmmaking. “What’s interesting to me is that he tells such dark stories because I think he is such a positive person,” she says. “You see that positivity in the context of these dark situations, and you know that he thinks the universe is good. It’s a key throughline in a lot of his movies. And I think this is another example of that. It’s beautiful to watch. That makes me feel safe on set, and it makes a lot of people feel happy and joyous to be here. It’s like we’re living the dream. He feels that and so we remember that every day.”

    Trap Josh Hartnett and Ariel Donoghue

    Josh Hartnett’s Stellar Performance

    Josh Hartnett, who plays Cooper, holds great respect for Shyamalan, especially because of the director’s meticulous approach. “I was given a big ream of the storyboards, which is basically the film,” shares Hartnett. “You could flip through it and you could see every shot… for someone to come that prepared and then show up and actually live within it… I think he does that because he feels what the actors are going through. You can see him behind the camera, really experiencing it, wanting to be there 100%, to see how it will be experienced by the audience. Later, he can then put it together in a way that’s going to be most effective for the audience. It just shows what a master he is of this craft. And I think because of all that, he really enjoys the process.”

    Shyamalan’s Praise for Hartnett

    Shyamalan is equally impressed with Hartnett’s dedication. For the role of Cooper, Shyamalan wanted an actor who is a big risk-taker. “When I met Josh, he looked me in the eye, and I just knew he was ready to do anything – there was an energy, an electricity coming off of him,” says the director. “I think for audiences, one of the great reasons to come to this movie is seeing the amazing performance that Josh gives.”

    Don’t Miss “Trap”

    “Trap,” distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, opens in cinemas July 31. Be sure to catch this captivating thriller and witness Josh Hartnett’s stellar performance. #TrapMovie

    Photo and Video credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

  • “Twisters” Dominates Box Office with $80.5M, Becomes Third-Biggest Opening Weekend of 2024 in US and PH

    “Twisters” Dominates Box Office with $80.5M, Becomes Third-Biggest Opening Weekend of 2024 in US and PH

    Nature’s fury rocked the global box office as “Twisters” stormed into North American and Philippine theaters, claiming the No. 1 spot and nabbing the third-biggest opening of 2024 in the US with a sensational $80.5 million.

    The Current-Day Chapter of a Classic

    “Twisters,” the modern-day chapter to the 1996 hit disaster blockbuster, is directed by Oscar nominee Lee Isaac Chung. The film stars Glen Powell, Daisy Edgar-Jones, and Anthony Ramos as storm chasers who come together to try to predict, and possibly tame, one of nature’s most destructive forces.

    1 2

    A Hit with Critics and Moviegoers

    The film has become a bona fide hit with both critics and audiences, earning a high score of 92% Audience Score and a certified 78% Fresh Rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

    Empire Magazine commends the action and thrill that “Twisters” brings to audiences. “Simply put, ‘Twisters’ wears its Big Summer Movie heart on its sleeve. The score is rousing and righteous, the star power at times overwhelming to look at directly (to clarify, Powell walking through a downpour in a white T-shirt serves absolutely no narrative purpose). Powell being reunited with Maverick’s Joseph Kosinski — here on story-writing duty — feels like no coincidence; Cruise may be absent, but ‘Twisters’ effectively throws every other adrenaline-pumping cinematic tool in its bolted-down wheelhouse at you. At one point, our heroes are quite literally ushering crowds into a movie theatre for shelter. And you’d do well to join them.”

    3

    Screenrant highlights the magnetic chemistry between Powell and Edgar-Jones as Kate and Tyler, saying, “Edgar-Jones and Powell’s chemistry is a highlight of ‘Twisters,’ and their dynamic had me questioning my belief that not every action movie needs a romance between its leads.”

    Entertainment Weekly praises the performances of the “Twisters” cast, noting, “There’s a ton of technobabble that you have to take on faith, but Jones and Powell do more than sell it; they make it compelling.”

    The New York Times points out the timeliness of a film focused on the devastating effects of worsening extreme weather conditions, stating, “If we can’t fix climate change, can we fight it? And if so, who benefits? Who will take advantage of our weather in the future, and who will suffer from it? The apocalyptic element of ‘Twisters’ hits a little closer to home. The idea of a tornado as a monster is a metaphor. But the tornado itself, and the havoc it wreaks, is very, very literal.”

    4

    Catch the Storm of a Lifetime

    Don’t miss out on the storm of a lifetime as “Twisters” is now showing in Philippine cinemas.

    Photo and Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.”

  • Exclusive Premieres at SM Cinemas: “The Roundup: Punishment” and “Real Life Fiction” This August

    Exclusive Premieres at SM Cinemas: “The Roundup: Punishment” and “Real Life Fiction” This August

    Black Cap Pictures proudly announces its exclusive August film lineup at SM Cinemas with “The Roundup: Punishment” premiering on August 14 and “Real Life Fiction” debuting on August 28.

    “The Roundup: Punishment” – Action-Packed and Star-Studded

    Premiering August 14

    Hailed as South Korea’s second biggest film of 2024, “The Roundup: Punishment” promises intense action and gripping drama. Filmed partly in the Philippines, the film stars Korean American actor Don Lee as Ma Seok Do, also known as the ‘monster cop,’ who continues his relentless pursuit of criminals expanding their operations beyond Korea.

    The Roundup Punishment opens Aug 14 exclusive at SM cinemas 1

    Known for his formidable strength and relentless pursuit, Seok Do and his eclectic team delve into the digital underworld, forging new alliances and uncovering the vast reaches of the dark web.

    Stellar Cast

    The fourth installment in the hugely successful Roundup franchise, “The Roundup: Punishment” boasts an ensemble of Korea’s versatile and beloved actors. Don Lee, internationally recognized for his breakout role in the global hit “Train to Busan,” leads the cast. Lee has also captivated audiences in Marvel’s “Eternals,” and other notable films such as “The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil,” “Unstoppable,” and “Badland Hunters.”

    The Roundup Punishment main poster

    Joining Lee are acclaimed actors Kim Mu-yeol (“Sweet Home”), Lee Joo Bin (“Queen of Tears”), Park Ji-Hwan (“Gyeongsong Creature”), and Lee Dong-Hwi (“Reply 1988”), making this film a must-watch for action enthusiasts and fans of Korean cinema.

    “Real Life Fiction” – A Psychological Drama Unveiled

    Piolo Pascual Jasmine Curtis in Real Life Fiction

    Premiering August 28

    On August 28, “Real Life Fiction,” a Philippine-produced English language film, makes its exclusive debut at SM Cinemas. Starring Piolo Pascual, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, and Epy Quizon, with a special appearance by Lav Diaz, this film promises an intense psychological drama.

    Directed and written by Paul Soriano, “Real Life Fiction” explores the life of a celebrated actor, Paco (Pascual), who grapples with distinguishing reality from fiction after years in the limelight.

    Piolo Pascual in Real life Fiction 1

    A Film Born from Real-life Crises

    Filmed during the height of the pandemic, “Real Life Fiction” challenges the cast’s depth and resilience as they navigate personal and professional crises. “This film is a personal look at how my imaginations come to life through the lives of actors who completely trust and support me. Sometimes, real life is the fiction we create in our mind,” shares director Soriano.

    Exclusive Screenings and Social Media Connect

    Both films are distributed by Black Cap Pictures and will be shown exclusively at SM Cinemas. Don’t miss the premiere of “The Roundup: Punishment” on August 14 and “Real Life Fiction” on August 28.

    Stay connected with Black Cap Pictures on social media: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.

  • Colleen Hoover Invites Filipino Fans to Experience “It Ends With Us” Movie Adaptation

    Colleen Hoover Invites Filipino Fans to Experience “It Ends With Us” Movie Adaptation

    #1 New York Times bestselling author Colleen Hoover is thrilled to invite her fans in the Philippines to watch the much-anticipated movie adaptation of her acclaimed romance novel, It Ends With Us. This heartwarming film follows Lily Bloom (portrayed by Blake Lively) as she pursues her dream of opening her own business, while dealing with the complexities of her past, an old love, and a serendipitous encounter with a captivating neurosurgeon.

    It Ends With Us, published in 2016, has soared in popularity, thanks to the BookTok community on TikTok. The novel has sold over a million copies worldwide and was the best-selling book of 2023. It has also been translated into more than twenty languages.

    Colleen Hoover has described It Ends With Us as the most challenging book she’s ever written, drawing inspiration from her parents’ tumultuous relationship. Critics have lauded the novel for its sensitive portrayal of domestic abuse. The Slate remarked, “It Ends With Us left a profound impact on me. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that made me feel a spectrum of emotions – anger, sadness, happiness, and joy. It made me realize the profound difficulty of leaving an abusive relationship.”

    ER3 0075 1333x2000 thumbnail 1

    Watch Lily Bloom’s Journey on the Big Screen

    It Ends With Us, the first Colleen Hoover novel to be adapted into a film, narrates the powerful story of Lily Bloom (Blake Lively), a woman who rises above a traumatic childhood to build a new life in Boston and achieve her dream of opening a business. When she meets the charismatic neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni), they share an instant connection. However, as their relationship deepens, Lily starts to see disturbing similarities between Ryle and her parents’ troubled past. The sudden reappearance of her first love, Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar), forces Lily to confront her past and make a heart-wrenching decision about her future.

    The film is directed by Justin Baldoni and produced by Alex Saks, Jamey Heath, Blake Lively, and Christy Hall. The cast includes Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, Jenny Slate, Hasan Minhaj, Amy Morton, and Brandon Sklenar. The screenplay is penned by Christy Hall, based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling book.

    ER3 0557 sseLEqSC 1000x755 thumbnail

    Mark your calendars for August 7 and witness Lily Bloom’s inspiring story unfold in Philippine cinemas.

    Distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, a local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, It Ends With Us hits cinemas on August 7. Join the conversation with the hashtag #ItEndsWithUsMovie and follow @columbiapicph for updates.

    Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

  • Beetlejuice Returns! Watch the New Trailer for “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”

    Beetlejuice Returns! Watch the New Trailer for “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”

    Here to make all your nightmares come true, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” – directed by Tim Burton and starring Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Jenna Ortega, and more – opens exclusively in cinemas on September 4. Watch the new trailer now!

    About “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”

    Beetlejuice is back! After an unexpected family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return to their home in Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid, discovers the mysterious model of the town in the attic and accidentally opens the portal to the Afterlife. With trouble brewing in both realms, it’s only a matter of time until someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times and the mischievous demon returns to unleash his unique brand of mayhem.

    Tim Burton, a genre unto himself, directs from a screenplay by Alfred Gough & Miles Millar (“Wednesday”), with a story by Gough, Millar, and Seth Grahame-Smith (“The LEGO® Batman Movie”), based on characters created by Michael McDowell & Larry Wilson. The film’s producers are Marc Toberoff, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Tommy Harper, and Burton, with Sara Desmond, Katterli Frauenfelder, Gough, Millar, Brad Pitt, Larry Wilson, Laurence Senelick, Pete Chiappetta, Andrew Lary, Anthony Tittanegro, Grahame-Smith, and David Katzenberg serving as executive producers.

    poster 2

    Star-Studded Cast

    The film stars Michael Keaton (“Batman,” “Birdman”), Winona Ryder (“Stranger Things,” “Little Women”), Catherine O’Hara (“Schitt’s Creek,” “Corpse Bride”), Justin Theroux (“Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi”, “The Leftovers”), Monica Bellucci (“Spectre”, “The Matrix” films), Arthur Conti (“House of the Dragon”), Jenna Ortega (“Wednesday”, “Scream VI”), and Willem Dafoe (“Poor Things”, “At Eternity’s Gate”).

    Release Date

    In cinemas on September 4, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

    Join the conversation using #Beetlejuice #Beetlejuice.

    Photo & Video Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

  • Project 8 and Mentorque Collaborate on Cinemalaya Film ‘Kono Basho’ Exploring Family and Grief

    Project 8 and Mentorque Collaborate on Cinemalaya Film ‘Kono Basho’ Exploring Family and Grief

    “To grieve together and safely: sometimes that’s all that matters.” – Merlinda Bobis

    Grief often comes in waves, urging us to seek solitude. Yet, finding solace in others can be a powerful remedy. Project 8 Projects and Mentorque Productions come together to bring you Kono Basho at this year’s Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival.

    An Esteemed Legacy of Filmmaking

    Project 8 Projects is no stranger to success, having earned accolades such as the Cinemalaya Audience Choice Award for Rookie (2023) and the Gawad Urian Best Film for Iti Mapukpukaw (2023). Their filmography includes critically acclaimed titles like Never Not Love You (2018), Alone Together (2019), and Fan Girl (2020).

    Mentorque Productions, known for the box-office hit Mallari (2023) – the first Filipino mainstream film distributed by Warner Brothers – continues its tradition of impactful storytelling with Kono Basho

    KONO BASHO STILL 01

    The Inspiration Behind Kono Basho

    Bryan Dy, Executive Producer at Mentorque Productions, shares his motivation: “What drew me to Kono Basho was the powerful story that embodies hope in the face of adversity. Witnessing Rikuzentakata’s rebuilding and the community’s spirit is incredibly inspiring. I want audiences to feel the warmth and solace this film offers.”

    Dy emphasizes the importance of supporting filmmakers who craft stories with heart, highlighting the strength of the human spirit.

    KONO BASHO STILL 03 1

    The Heartfelt Narrative

    Kono Basho follows the journey of two estranged half-sisters, Ella (Gabby Padilla) and Reina (Arisa Nakano), who reunite at their father’s funeral in Rikuzentakata. Ella, a 28-year-old Filipina anthropologist, grapples with cultural and emotional complexities tied to her father’s second family in Japan. Despite their differences, Ella and Reina forge a bond, reconciling their perceptions of their shared father.

    Their path of self-discovery intertwines with Rikuzentakata’s healing, a city deeply affected by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Together, they navigate family tides, addressing unresolved traumas that reshape their relationship.

    KONO BASHO STILL 04

    Stellar Cast and Crew

    The film stars Gawad Urian and Cinemalaya Best Actress nominee Gabby Padilla, known for her roles in Kalel, 15, Billie and Emma, and Gitling. Gabby reflects on the experience: “The community we built in Japan while shooting in Rikuzentakata was one of my favorite things about the whole Kono Basho experience. Being able to work with an amazing team in such a magical place was already a gift in itself.”

    Arisa Nakano, celebrated for her role in the Oscar-nominated Perfect Days, brings depth to Reina. Having experienced Japan’s 2011 disaster, she hopes the film offers Filipino audiences a glimpse into that reality. “Having lived through the big natural disaster in Japan, I’ve seen how people’s lives changed because of it. I hope people in the Philippines get a glimpse of that reality through this film.”

    KONO BASHO STILL 05 1

    Director’s Vision

    Visual artist, curator, and filmmaker Jaime Pacena II draws inspiration from his time in Rikuzentakata. He integrates thirteen years of archival photos and videos into the film, portraying themes of memory and resilience. Pacena dedicates Kono Basho to his three eldest sisters, emphasizing family and sibling bonds.

    Director Dan Villegas returns to his roots as a cinematographer, enriching the visual storytelling of Kono Basho. Villegas also serves as Executive Producer and Producer, ensuring the film’s compelling narrative is brought to life.

    KONO BASHO STILL 02

    Cultural Collaboration

    The Japan Foundation played a crucial role in the film’s production, ensuring Rikuzentakata’s culture and sensibilities were authentically represented.

    KB MainPoster

    A Story of Family and Renewal

    Kono Basho explores themes of family, loss, identity, and renewal against the backdrop of the 2011 tsunami. It offers a poignant reflection on the Filipino diaspora and the enduring hope amid grief.

    Grief comes in waves, but you don’t have to face it alone. Sometimes, unexpected connections make the journey bearable.

    Join us in Japan with Kono Basho, an official entry at the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival – in theaters August 2024.

  • MOVIE REVIEW: Filled with so much heart, ‘When This Is All Over’ is a great showcase for Juan Karlos’ range

    MOVIE REVIEW: Filled with so much heart, ‘When This Is All Over’ is a great showcase for Juan Karlos’ range

    ‘When This is All Over’ brings us back to the start of the pandemic and the early days of the quarantine. It puts into focus one condominium and the disparity between the quarantine experience of both its wealthy residents and the working class folks who keep the building running. It harkens back to the time of people breaking protocols and their overall dismissive attitudes towards what appeared to be an inconvenience to what is depicted as their empty lives. In the middle of these two is The Guy, played by Juan Karlos, a resident but not entirely of the upper strata as its other inhabitants. He’s a drug dealer, trying to raise money so that he can leave the country to be with his mother in America, with her new family.

    Director Kevin Mayuga doesn’t focus too much on the pandemic as it is merely the backdrop of The Guy’s obstacles to reuniting with his mom. He’s more involved with establishing the milieu of the upper class characters, whose point-of-view is that the pandemic is more of an annoyance that is stopping them from being able to party. The party scenes is where Mayuga gets to have fun, playing out each trip from weed to acid to shrooms in a way that totally warps the film’s world and highlights The Guy’s inability to face his reality.

    While selling drugs to other residents in the same building, he discovers that one of the girls, Taylor (Chaye Mogg), has connections to the embassy and can fast track his visa application. He tries to impress her by suggesting a place where they can hold a party, something which Taylor is missing so much. The Guy found a route to the building’s rooftop while looking for a place to smoke and there he meets and befriends Rosemarie (Jorrybell Agoto), an admin staff, who also uses the rooftop to get some air and find some space.

    For The Guy to deliver on his promise, he has to trick Rosemarie and get the keys to the rooftop so that Taylor and her friends can hold their party and relive their wild drunken lives as an escape from the pandemic.

    When This Is All OverIMG 8056

    Mayuga manages the balancing act between upper class frivolities and working class anxieties rather well. While Taylor and her friends (played by Noor Hooshmand, Renee Dominique, and Aaron Maniego) are obnoxious and wholly immoral at a hyper-real level, it works because Mayuga plays off the tone of his film like an urban fable. In opposition, he presents Rosemarie and the rest of the building staff (which includes Lottie Bie and Zara Loayan) as grounded and real. Juan Karlos, as The Guy, manages to shift and transform depending on who he is with with such ease that it shows off his great versatility and charm. He’s the fulcrum that makes this whole movie work. The Guy is not a bad guy, he’s just desperate to be with his mom, his loneliness and inability to really take care of himself is evident in many scenes in act one. We don’t approve of what he does but we understand where he is coming from.

    When This Is All OverIMG 8055

    It’s what really makes ‘When This Is All Over’ work. The story is simple and can even be predictable but it’s done with so much care and earnestness that it carries through. Sure, Taylor and her friends are made to be despicable people (though Dominique’s Nicole manages to show layers and nuance in both the writing and performance of the character) but Mayuga still manages to treat them with love and care. The dialogue, the sensibilities, the attitudes are all coming from an authentic place. It’s not meant to ridicule them but show their darkest side of that class. And by not going to deep among the working class characters, he keeps them from becoming romanticized and allows them to be human. Filtered through the point-of-view of The Guy, the horrible things he does to them just to appease the rich folk and get his visa becomes even more cruel and inhumane and the life lessons he will come to learn by the third act becomes earned.

    When This Is All OverIMG 8054

    While the film has so much heart and has quite a great number of comic moments that lands their jokes, ‘When This Is All Over’ suffers from a lack of urgency or energy. It is as if the stillness of the pandemic has seeped into the pacing of the film and everything just seems to move one step at a time rather than at a frenetic speed, which the story sort of calls for: the energy of the party scenes, the caper that transpires for the secret rave, or the confrontation scenes at the end. The film never really hits peaks when it can except for one pivotal moment that is a trippy animated moment of self-realisation that’s wonderfully done and excellently timed for the narrative. It excuses the lack of urgency from the rest of the movie.

    Great performances and a wonderful beating heart right underneath, ‘When This Is All Over’ is a joy to watch and an interesting reminder of what we went through during the pandemic and how it changed us, for better or worse.

    My Rating:

    stars 4 0


    This year, don’t miss Cinemalaya Bente: Loob, Lalim, Lakas happening from August 2-11, 2024! Witness another stellar lineup of Filipino stories that will move you and showcase the brilliance of Philippine cinema. Follow the Cultural Center of the Philippines and Cinemalaya for updates!

  • New Movies This Week: ‘Twisters,’ ‘Don’t Turn Out the Lights,’ and more!

    New Movies This Week: ‘Twisters,’ ‘Don’t Turn Out the Lights,’ and more!

    Get ready for an exciting movie-filled Wednesday! And you know what that means – a fresh batch of movies are ready to light up your week! This week’s new movie releases offer a diverse range of genres and stories, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From the heart-pounding thrills of storm chasers in “Twisters” to the chilling suspense of “Don’t Turn Out the Lights,” family-friendly fantasy with “Doraemon,” and from the dramatic escape of a North Korean sergeant in “Escape” to the romantic cosmos of “Uranus 2324,” there’s something to match every mood and interest. Don’t forget, some fan favorites are still playing in theaters – catch them before they’re gone! Grab your movie squad, score that extra-buttered popcorn, and watch the movies hitting theaters near you!

    New Movies This Week July 17 2024 Final

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

    Twisters

    2024 • PG • 2 hrs 2 mins
    ACTION, ADVENTURE, THRILLER
    BUY TICKETS

    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?

    Don’t Turn Out the Lights

    2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 49 mins
    HORROR
    BUY TICKETS

    What starts as an exciting road trip to a music festival turns into a harrowing tale of survival in “Don’t Turn Out the Lights.” Seven friends find themselves stranded in desolation with an ominous presence lurking. As night falls, their fight for survival begins. Brace yourself for a horror story that pushes the boundaries of fear and tests the limits of friendship.

    Doraemon the Movie: Nobita’s Earth Symphony

    2024 • G • 1 hr 54 mins
    ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, DRAMA, FANTASY
    GET SHOWTIMES

    In this heartwarming adventure, Doraemon and friends face a world without music. “Nobita’s Earth Symphony” explores a scenario where music vanishes, leading to a vibrant quest to restore harmony to the world. With its charming storyline and beloved characters, this film is ideal for families and fans of all ages looking to enjoy a feel-good, animated escapade.

    Escape

    2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 34 mins
    ACTION, DRAMA
    BUY TICKETS

    “Escape” tells the riveting story of a North Korean sergeant’s harrowing journey to freedom. After a decade of service, he makes a daring defection attempt to South Korea, seeking a life he can finally call his own. This film is a powerful drama about the human spirit’s quest for liberty and self-determination, filled with intense action sequences and emotional depth. Lee Je-hoon delivers a powerful performance, making this film a profound cinematic experience about the cost of freedom.

    Uranus 2324

    2024 • R-13 • 2 hrs 23 mins
    DRAMA, ROMANCE, SCIENCE FICTION
    GET SHOWTIMES

    Set in the not-so-distant future, “Uranus 2324” explores the intertwining of dreams and love on a space mission that challenges the boundaries of human experience. This science fiction drama offers a poignant look at how our deepest aspirations and affections shape our destiny. With a blend of futuristic aesthetics and heartfelt storytelling, it’s a romantic journey that’s as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning.

    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:

    Fly Me to the Moon

    2024 • PG • 2 hrs 14 mins
    COMEDY, ROMANCE
    GET SHOWTIMES

    Prepare to launch into laughter with “Fly Me to the Moon,” a comedic romp set against the backdrop of the iconic Apollo 11 mission. Marketing guru Kelly Jones (Scarlett Johansson) teams up with the no-nonsense launch director Cole Davis (Channing Tatum) to salvage NASA’s tarnished image. But when the mission takes a hilarious turn with a staged moon landing, the real countdown begins. Filled with witty banter and chaotic situations, this film is perfect for those who love their romance with a side of cosmic comedy.

    Longlegs

    2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 40 mins
    CRIME, HORROR, MYSTERY
    GET SHOWTIMES

    “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
    GET SHOWTIMES

    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
    GET SHOWTIMES

    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
    GET SHOWTIMES

    How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies

    2024 • G • 2 hrs 6 mins
    DRAMA
    GET SHOWTIMES

    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.