Get ready for an epic return to Ancient Rome with Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated sequel, Gladiator II. This powerhouse of a movie features an all-star cast including Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Connie Nielsen, Joseph Quinn, and Fred Hechinger. Mark your calendars for its grand release on November 20!
Paul Mescal as Lucius and Pedro Pascal as Marcus Acacius in #GladiatorII
From the legendary director Ridley Scott, Gladiator II continues the gripping saga of power, intrigue, and vengeance in Ancient Rome. Years have passed since the tragic death of the revered hero Maximus. Lucius (Paul Mescal), now grown, finds himself drawn into the Colosseum after his homeland is overtaken by the tyrannical rulers of Rome. With a burning rage and the fate of the Empire hanging in the balance, Lucius must draw on his past to reclaim Rome’s glory for its people.
Denzel Washington as Macrinus and Connie Nielsen as Lucilla in #GladiatorII
Distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures, Gladiator II hits cinemas starting November 20. Don’t miss the cinematic event of the year! Engage with the film on social media using the hashtag #GladiatorII and tag @paramountpicsph.
Twenty years into navigating the cinematic imagination, the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival sets sail once more from August 2 to 11, guided by the Filipino people’s inner constellation, imagery, and creativity.
Embracing the Essence of Philippine Cinema
Embracing the theme “Cinemalaya Bente: Loob, Lalim, Lakas,” the pioneering independent film festival returns with 10 compelling full-length and 10 captivating short films in competition. For its 20th edition, Cinemalaya promises top-tier visual storytelling that ignites imaginations while amplifying diverse voices in cinema.
THE RED TRAILS (AN BAGA SA DALAN) by Mariel Ritchie Jolejole and Roniño Dolim
A New Venue for a Continuing Legacy
Amidst the ongoing rehabilitation of the CCP Main Building, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and the Cinemalaya Foundation, Inc. proudly bring this cinematic feast to Ayala Malls Manila Bay. For over two decades, Ayala Malls has steadfastly supported CCP and Cinemalaya as a valued partner.
During its 10-day run, Cinemalaya films in competition and exhibitions will be screened at Cinema 2, Cinema 8, Cinema 9, and Cinema 10. These screenings secure a safe space for independent filmmakers to tell their stories and share perspectives on issues shaping the nation, while propelling the Philippine cinema industry to new heights.
Festival Highlights and Side Events
Festival fans and film enthusiasts continue to enjoy mainstays like:
Retrospective: Bringing back previous Cinemalaya winning films.
Best of the Festivals: Showcasing the best films from local festivals.
Visions of Asia: Featuring award-winning Asian and NETPAC films.
Digital Classics: Featuring newly-restored Filipino classic films.
The 36th Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video
Running concurrently is the 36th Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video, the longest-running independent film competition of its kind in Southeast Asia. Films compete in categories such as Short Feature/Narrative, Experimental, Documentary, and Animation. Pre-selected entries will be screened on August 3-6, 2024 at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, with the awards ceremony on August 10 at Cinema 2.
Cinemalaya’s Commitment to Filipino Filmmakers
Now in its 20th year of unfettered exploration of truthful storytelling and imagery, Cinemalaya continues to discover, encourage, and support the cinematic works of upcoming and veteran Filipino filmmakers who boldly articulate and freely interpret the Philippine experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity.
Since 2005, Cinemalaya has supported and promoted the production of Filipino full-feature independent films and short films, many of which have won awards in local and international competitions and festivals. Through the annual festival, Cinemalaya has showcased over 1,000 works by independent filmmakers, including full-feature films, shorts, documentaries, Filipino film classics, and art films.
For more information, visit the CCP website and the Cinemalaya website. Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya Facebook pages and other social media accounts on X, Instagram, and TikTok.
Are you ready for the thrill ride of the year? A group of fearless storm chasers risk their lives to face one of nature’s most terrifying forces in “Twisters.” The epic disaster film arrives in Philippine cinemas on July 17, but you can secure your tickets now ahead of everyone else by logging in at www.twisters.com.ph.
Meet the Tornado Wranglers
Tyler Owens (Glen Powell)
Tyler Owens (Glen Powell) The charismatic leader of the pack, Tyler is a former rodeo star who found fame on social media as a viral “extreme meteorologist.” He seeks thrills chasing intense storms across the country, bringing his daring exploits to a wide audience.
Kate Carter (Daisy Edgar-Jones)
Kate Carter (Daisy Edgar-Jones) Once passionate about predicting, chasing, and taming tornadoes, Kate now leads a life behind a desk, having stepped away from the storm-chasing world after a significant failure. However, when an anomalous extreme storm offers a shot at redemption, Kate is faced with the opportunity for a second chance at adventure.
Javi (Anthony Ramos)
Javi (Anthony Ramos) Haunted by the tragedy that struck Kate’s crew, Javi re-enters Kate’s life as an entrepreneur. He has developed new technology aimed at studying tornadoes with the goal of eventually taming them.
Boone (Brandon Perea)
Boone (Brandon Perea) Part of Tyler’s squad, Boone is the dedicated videographer capturing their escapades for social media, ensuring every thrilling moment is documented.
Lily (Sasha Lane) Lily is the drone-toting scout of the crew, using cutting-edge technology to track and monitor the extreme storms they chase.
Experience the Thrill
Watch these daring tornado wranglers chase the most extreme storms nature has to offer as “Twisters” crashes into Philippine cinemas on July 17. Don’t miss out on the action—get your tickets now and join the adventure!
Photo and Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.”
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. Whether you’re looking for a light-hearted escape with ‘Fly Me to the Moon,’ a nerve-wracking thrill in ‘Longlegs,’ a laugh-out-loud journey with ‘Marupok AF,’ or a romantic comedy with ‘That Kind of Love,’ there’s something to match every mood and interest. Don’t forget, some fan favorites are still playing in cinemas – catch them before they’re gone! 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:
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” 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.
Inspired by real events that lit up social media, “Marupok AF” is a hilarious yet poignant look at modern dating. EJ Jallorina plays Janzen Torres, who navigates the perilous waters of online dating only to find herself entangled in a bizarre tale of deceit and romance. This film cleverly captures the essence of contemporary relationships, making you laugh while also making you think about the realities of love in the digital age.
“That Kind of Love” explores the serendipitous connection between Mila Maharlika (Barbie Forteza), a love coach with a heart of gold, and Adam De Dios (David Licauco), a suave executive convinced he’s Mr. Perfect. This romantic comedy unravels the unpredictable nature of love, showcasing how true affection often blossoms in the least expected ways. Engaging, heartfelt, and brimming with witty exchanges, it’s a film that promises to leave you smiling and perhaps a little wiser about the quirks of Cupid’s arrow.
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:
2024 • PG • 1 hr 35 mins ACTION, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY BUY TICKETS
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!
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.
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.
Set in the late 1960s with the focus on America’s rush to put American astronauts on the moon to beat the Russians during the “space race,” ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ is a mainstream comedy starring Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum and directed by Greg Berlanti. While the film intends to be an inspiring tale about the interconnectedness of marketing and branding with scientific progress (which may not always align ideologically) and the gung-ho attitude of Americans in how they were able to inspire the world to reach for the stars, the film may also unintentionally become an interesting examination of America’s dangerous marriage to capitalism and its own sordid image of itself. If it was intentional, then bravo to the director and Rose Gilroy, the screenwriter, because ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ navigates the advantages and disadvantages of lies, misdirection, and the truth.
Tatum plays Cole Davis, a former astronaut who is head of the NASA program in-charge of sending astronauts into space. He’s a no-nonsense kind of guy who deeply loves his job and the people who work under him. But under then-President Nixon and the growing cost of the Vietnam war, NASA is trying to survive with a diminished budget and with a deadline that is looming perilously closer every day. Enter Kelly Jones, played by Scarlett Johansson, recruited by the mysterious Moe Berkus (Woody Harrelson) to use her expertise in marketing and PR to rebrand the NASA program and get people excited again for the space program.
Cole Davis (Channing Tatum) in FLY ME TO THE MOON.
The film manages its politics quite well. Jones is depicted as a woman who will always go where the money is but her assistant, played by Anna Garcia, is a progressive feminist who cautions against it, articulating the film’s politics that Nixon was bad, the Vietnam war was bad and that the methods employed by Jones throughout the film are also extremely objectionable.
Kelly Jones (Scarlett Johansson) in FLY ME TO THE MOON.
But as Jones’ methods for building the Apollo mission and NASA brand succeeds – even if she uses actors to play the engineers because they don’t do interviews, or commodifying every aspect of the space mission making statements that are not true – it really puts a question on whether little embellishments and lies are what it really takes to make people care about anything.
Lance (Jim Rash) and Kelly Jones (Scarlett Johansson) in FLY ME TO THE MOON.
The film makes fun of this. We are expected to laugh when Johansson, as Kelly Jones, convinces Tatum’s Cole Davis that the cereal marketing and branding helps even if the astronauts don’t really eat the products in real life; and we do laugh because Johansson is putting out all the charm and it works in this medium and Tatum serves as a wonderful counterpoint to her amoral marketing wiz. We laugh because we have heard and even know about “the truth in advertising” and to see it play out in this comedy where the results are beneficial to the main characters, especially the morally upright Cole Davis, that we forgive them and ride along.
Ruby Martin (Anna Garcia), Moe Berkus (Woody Harrelson), Kelly Jones (Scarlett Johansson), Lance Vespertine (Jim Rash) in FLY ME TO THE MOON.
In-between the hijinks and the gags, there’s a love story blooming between Kelly and Cole but there’s also a big secret that Kelly is trying to hide and, through this job, hopefully erase; and when the lies get too big to handle, the film leads us towards the filming of a fake lunar landing (which involves the always-funny Jim Rash as the director of this production) to ensure that the Americans will win the space race, whether they really did or not.
Cole Davis (Channing Tatum), Moe Berkus (Woody Harrelson) and Kelly Jones (Scarlett Johansson) in FLY ME TO THE MOON.
While the film harkens about the power and importance of the truth, of how the truth gives value to any concept or abstract idea, ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ ends up highlighting the way America has always tried to portray itself to the world, where it’s image of being “the greatest nation of the world” is built upon so many wrongs. In this film, it’s the Vietnam War.
Interestingly enough, when the film positions Moe Berkus as the antagonist, the best way to beat him is through deception. The film, while advocating for the power and importance of truth, cannot help but leverage the power of lies in solving so many problems and issues. Despite its moral shortcomings, though, the movie means well and it’s funny and well-paced and its cast does a marvelous job of selling us the fantasy. It’s a completely fictional story that uses historical facts as a basis for some of its plot points, but it is really out there to just give us a good time, and it does that. The music is strong, Johansson and Tatum are wonderful together and it sort of shows us the importance of being able to sell an idea. No great advancement can be done without money and the games behind the scenes are given special attention by the plot points of the film. If anything, the film further proves that STEM is nothing without the humanities and the liberal arts to give it any real value.
After two decades, Ridley Scott revisits the legendary Roman saga, promising a new chapter that combines breathtaking visuals with a compelling narrative. The newly released official trailer offers a glimpse into the grandeur and intensity that “Gladiator II” brings.
A Star-Studded Cast
Paul Mescal takes on the lead role, supported by a stellar ensemble cast.
The first official trailer is out now, showcasing the film’s epic scale and emotional depth. The trailer promises an unforgettable cinematic experience that builds on the legacy of the original “Gladiator.”
Mark Your Calendars
Don’t miss the premiere of “Gladiator II” in Philippine cinemas on November 20. Prepare to be enthralled by a story of courage, honor, and revenge.
Filipino-American actor Brandon Perea, known for his role in the sci-fi series “The OA” and his breakout performance in Jordan Peele’s acclaimed horror film “Nope,” is set to dazzle audiences once again. This time, Perea takes on the role of Boone, an extreme meteorologist, in the highly anticipated disaster film “Twisters.”
A Modern Chapter to a Classic Tale
“Twisters,” a contemporary sequel to the 1991 blockbuster “Twister,” follows a team of storm chasers as they endeavor to predict and possibly tame nature’s most destructive forces. Perea’s character, Boone, partners with Tyler Owen (played by Glen Powell) to lead a diverse group of thrill-seeking storm chasers from Arkansas.
“They’re a diverse group of fun and crazy hooligans who work efficiently together, but there’s a higher purpose in what they do,” Perea explains. “They’re cool because everyone’s just being their genuine honest self, no false fronts. Their goal is to help people and have fun while doing it, and as they reveal themselves to the audience, they will earn everyone’s respect.”
The cast of “Twisters” found inspiration in the original “Twister” character, Dusty, played by the late Philip Seymour Hoffman. “I know that I’m talking about one of the greatest actors of all time,” Perea says. “Hopefully I can bring even just a pinkie-nail amount of that fun-kooky energy he brought to the film.”
Director Lee Isaac Chung also aimed to honor Hoffman’s legacy by infusing some of Dusty’s aesthetic into Boone’s character. “I also wanted to pay respect to Philip Seymour Hoffman, who was so beloved in ‘Twister,’ for playing this quirky, thrill-seeking character, Dusty, and whose spirit can be seen in the storm wranglers,” Chung shares. “Perhaps the most explicit of those homages are on Boone, Tyler’s right-hand man and hype beast, played by Brandon Perea, who rocks some tie-dye, and on Lily, played by Sasha Lane, the group’s free-spirited drone flyer, whose pants have swatches of floral fabric, all nods to Dusty’s wardrobe prints.”
Prepare for a thrilling ride as Boone and his team of storm chasers battle tornadoes and brave the elements in “Twisters.” This epic disaster film promises heart-pounding action, a touch of nostalgia, and a cast of characters you’ll love.
“Twisters” crashes into Philippine cinemas on July 17. Don’t miss the chance to see Brandon Perea and the rest of the crew in action!
Photo and Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.”
Ayala Malls Cinemas exclusively brings another acclaimed Filipino film to the theaters with “Marupok A+.” Directed by Quark Henares and starring EJ Jallorina, Royce Cabrera, and Maris Racal, the film centers around the use of catfishing in the online dating world.
Watch the trailer here below:
When Janzen Torres (EJ Jallorina), a transgender woman, matches with Theo Balmacenda (Royce Cabrera), it seems that love is right around the corner, but she soon learns that not everything is what it seems, and Theo might be luring her into something dangerous.
The cast includes EJ Jallorina, who started out as a child star in the hit TV show “Goin’ Bulilit”, and star of the tv shows and films such as “Marry Me, Marry You” and “Mamu, and a Mother Too”. Identifying as a transgender person, she was part of Preview’s iconic Pride cover for June 2024.
Royce, meanwhile, had his breakout role in the 2019 Cinemalaya film “Fucbois” and went on to portray significant roles in the GMA TV series “Makiling”, “Lilet Matias, Attorney At Law”, “The Write One” and “Widows’ War”.
Playing Beanie, a playful yet twisted director who is heavily involved in the Janzen-Theo affair, is Maris Racal. The Pinoy Big Brother alumnus is known today for her breakthrough role as Irene Young-Tiu in the ABS-CBN Netflix series “Can’t Buy Me Love”.
Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to showcase internationally-acclaimed and culturally relevant local titles to moviegoers across the country with “Marupok A+.” Initially shown at last year’s Cinemalaya, dive into the mystery of “Marupok A+,” showing exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas starting July 10.
Whether it’s a catchy upbeat tune like “Happy” or a positively mellow song like “Just A Cloud Away,” the “Despicable Me” franchise has produced some of the most beloved music for animated films. The musical themes for the different characters are just as memorable because, in the world of “Despicable Me 4,” the music plays a vital role in interweaving the narrative with equal parts mischief and heart.
The Genius Behind the Music: Heitor Pereira
Grammy Award-winning composer Heitor Pereira, the creative force behind the “Despicable Me” films’ iconic musical scores, adopts a character-centric approach to his compositions. “Believe it or not, I wait until every new character sings their melodies to me,” Pereira says. “I hear their music through the tones of their voices, the rhythm of their dialogue, their extreme personalities, and how they interact with all the other characters in the story. When you write for one character, you have to think about all the others – it is how this melody can coexist and interact with the melodies of everybody else. Animation can be very intricate. My job is still to make it sound like the music was born along with it!”
A Harmonious Partnership: Pharrell Williams and Heitor Pereira
Pereira’s collaboration with Grammy Award-winner and Oscar® nominee Pharrell Williams has been instrumental in shaping the musical identity of the franchise. Williams’s original songs, including “Despicable Me,” “Happy,” and “Just A Cloud Away,” among many others, have become emblematic of the “Despicable Me” brand.
“In the first movie, we worked very closely together,” Pereira recalls. “Hans Zimmer introduced me to him and asked me if I would do an arrangement of the girls’ theme. I put my heart into it, showed it to them the next morning, and I got a gig and a new musical friend! He came to my studio many, many times, and we had a lot of fun. Since then, he writes his great songs, and I write the score. Even though I write the new themes for the new characters, Pharrell’s original themes are still there – as I pointed out, the girls’ theme, or Gru’s theme, which we ended up collaborating on, and I wrote the Minions’ theme. But, like him, I come from pop music, so my love for songs never goes away. I just see the score as a massive song! In doing that, Pharrell is ever-present.”
New Melodies for New Adventures
“Despicable Me 4” will feature a new original song from Williams, which reflects the double life that Gru leads in the film. “Gru is trying to live in peace in American suburbia, yet has to uproot his family to go on the run from his new enemies,” Williams says. “His family starts to catch on despite his efforts to hide the danger. The song is about struggling with keeping his identity as a secret agent despite wanting to be honest with his family.”
Williams’s partnership with Illumination and Pereira has enriched the “Despicable Me” franchise’s musical landscape. “Our goal is to connect with humans, building on themes and situations that resonate with most people,” Williams says. “We try to do it vividly and harmoniously. I remain a student and learn so much from Heitor every time we collaborate. He is a genius composer, a creatively articulate guitar player, a shining Brazilian talent.”
Gru’s New Journey
In “Despicable Me 4,” Gru’s (Steve Carell) life is turned upside down with the arrival of his and Lucy’s (Kristen Wiig) new baby, expanding his role to a father of four and a dedicated AVL agent. While on a mission with the fan-favorite minions, Gru comes face to face with the villain Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell) and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina (Sofia Vergara), and the family is forced to go on the run.
Packed with non-stop action and filled with Illumination’s signature subversive humor, “Despicable Me 4” is now showing in cinemas nationwide. #DespicableMe4PH
Glen Powell, known for his magnetic performances, is set to captivate audiences once again in the disaster thriller “Twisters,” directed by Lee Isaac Chung. Powell’s journey into this high-octane film began during his collaboration with Joseph Kosinski on “Top Gun: Maverick,” where he first learned about “Twisters.” Intrigued by the vibrant characters and intense action sequences, Powell kept a close eye on the project.
The Call to Adventure
While filming “Anyone But You” in Australia, Powell received a pivotal call. “I was asked if I’d be interested in ‘Twisters’ and if I would be open to doing a chemistry read with Daisy, who was already cast,” Powell recalls. This opportunity was a dream come true for the actor, who was eager to dive into the world of tornado chasing.
Perfect Casting
Director Lee Isaac Chung believes Powell is the ideal choice for the role of Tyler Owens, a charming rodeo star-turned-viral storm chaser. “Glen is so charismatic, interesting, and funny, you end up loving him even when he’s playing characters like Tyler who are cocky and big showboats,” Chung says. “He’s also an extraordinary actor with great depth, effortlessly revealing layers of his character without forcing it.”
A Personal Connection
An appearance on the morning show “Today” showcased a different side of Powell that resonated with Chung. “Seeing Glen with his parents, talking about their impact on his life, I saw a layer of him that I wanted for this character—someone with real heart,” Chung explains. This genuine warmth and depth made Powell the perfect fit for Tyler Owens.
Honoring a Legacy
Powell also drew inspiration from the late Bill Paxton, star of the original “Twister.” Reflecting on their time together during the filming of the 2013 western “Red Wing,” Powell shares, “Bill helped me understand what it takes to make characters like Tyler feel grounded and real, but also cool and fun. I thought about Bill Paxton often while making ‘Twisters.’ It’s an impossible task to follow in his footsteps, but I hope people can see a little bit of his light emanating through the movie.”
Building the Character
Powell meticulously crafted his portrayal of Tyler Owens, aiming to reveal the character’s true depth. “I wanted to start with my character presenting as exactly the guy you think he is—this self-promoting adrenaline junkie,” Powell explains. “But then you realize there’s real depth to him. His team of storm chasers might seem like a traveling circus of thrill seekers, but they share a complicated fascination with tornadoes and a deep respect for their power. They’re a band of misfits who have grown into a family that works together and cares for each other.”
Storming Cinemas Soon
Get ready for heart-racing action as “Twisters” storms across Philippine cinemas on July 17. Join Glen Powell and an incredible cast as they navigate the thrilling, unpredictable world of tornadoes, bringing both excitement and depth to the screen.
