#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.”
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.
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.
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.
“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
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.
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.
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.”
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.
Cultural Collaboration
The Japan Foundation played a crucial role in the film’s production, ensuring Rikuzentakata’s culture and sensibilities were authentically represented.
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.
‘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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
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?
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
