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.
Disney and Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” has been making waves since its Philippine premiere on June 12. Now hailed among the top 10 films of all time in the Philippines, this much-anticipated sequel has captivated audiences and resonated deeply with viewers of all ages. As the movie continues its successful run in theaters, it’s clear that Inside Out 2 is more than just a sequel; it’s a heartfelt exploration of mental health, emotional complexities, and the journey of growing up.
Inside Out 2 is not just a visual and emotional feast; it’s also packed with blink-and-you’ll-miss-it details and subtle easter eggs that add depth to its storytelling. If you’ve already seen the movie and missed these, it might be time for a rewatch! Here are some of the small details that make Inside Out 2 a gem worth rediscovering:
1. Joy Didn’t Forget About Bing Bong After All
In one of the earlier scenes where all the emotions – Joy, Sadness, Envy, Fear, and Disgust – are seen sleeping, a beloved character seemingly makes an appearance. Bing Bong, Riley’s imaginary friend from the first movie, is seen in Joy’s cupboard as an origami, complete with his iconic red wagon. This subtle nod brings back memories of Bing Bong’s heroic sacrifice and the emotional impact of the “take her to the moon for me” line.
Keen viewers will appreciate the nuanced portrayal of the characters. In one scene, Disgust is shown cleaning Joy’s dress as they try to board one of the floating items in Riley’s mind. True to her nature, Disgust then wipes her own hands on her dress, an act that’s both on-brand and natural for a character in charge of fashion and societal ‘no-nos.’
When Riley first experiences a panic attack during an intense game of hockey, she feels helpless and distressed. However, an earlier scene with Riley’s mom’s Emotions shows Mom’s Anxiety being welcomed back after some time, suggesting that anxiety is temporary and can be managed. This subtle detail offers a hopeful message about mental health.
4. Joy Learned Her Lesson
It’s not just Riley who has grown and learned to embrace the changes that come with puberty. Even Joy, the ‘leader’ of the group, has had to adjust. In the first film, Joy was adamant about giving Riley only happy memories, thinking she was protecting her from harm. In a poignant moment in the sequel, Joy tells Sadness, “Wherever I go, you go,” reminding viewers that Joy and Sadness go hand-in-hand, and that one can feel joy even during the lowest moments, and vice versa.
Throughout the movie, the interactions between the emotions are filled with subtle nuances that reflect their growth and changes. From Envy’s quiet moments of self-reflection to Fear’s newfound courage, each emotion shows a depth that adds layers to the narrative.
Why Inside Out 2 Deserves a Second Watch
Inside Out 2 is a movie layered with subtle hints and important details that enhance its emotional impact. Whether you’re watching it alone, with family, or with friends, it’s a film that offers something new with every viewing. The intricate details and easter eggs not only enrich the storyline but also provide a deeper understanding of the characters and their journeys.
As Inside Out 2 continues its successful run in cinemas, it’s also a testament to the growing influence of Filipino storytelling on a global scale. The film has resonated exceptionally well with local audiences, highlighting the universal themes of growth, self-discovery, and emotional resilience.
Inside Out 2 is now on its third week, showing in cinemas nationwide. Don’t miss the chance to experience this heartwarming and emotionally rich sequel. Gather your friends, invite your family, or watch it solo – it’s a journey worth taking multiple times. Join the conversation, feel all the feels, and discover the hidden gems in Inside Out 2.
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 comedic escapades of a daring single mom in “Citizen of a Kind” to the animated family adventures of “Despicable Me 4,” the thrilling folklore of “Kuman Thong: Black Magic Baby,” the eerie mysteries in “The Promised,” and the supernatural suspense of “Whisper,” there’s something to draw everyone to the theaters. 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:
2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 53 mins COMEDY, CRIME GET SHOWTIMES
In a twist of fate, Duk-hee, a single mom turned sleuth, finds herself embroiled in a voice phishing scam that takes her from despair in her hometown to a daring adventure across China. With a potent mix of humor and heart, this comedy-crime film showcases the lengths one will go to reclaim what’s theirs. Ra Mi-ran’s performance as Duk-hee blends comedy with an indomitable spirit, making for a compelling watch.
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!
Delve into the eerie world of Thai folklore with this chilling tale about a mystical figure believed to bring luck and peril. This horror-thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat with its suspenseful storyline and eerie atmosphere. It’s a perfect pick for those who love folklore entwined with modern-day horror.
In “The Promised,” young August unravels the haunting mysteries surrounding his origins. As he edges closer to the truth about his father, eerie occurrences escalate, leading to a heart-stopping journey. This film blends supernatural elements with a gripping family saga, making it a compelling choice for horror enthusiasts.
“Whisper” takes you to a remote village under the grip of a sinister curse. This horror-thriller is a tale of survival and bravery as a brother fights against a supernatural threat to save his family. With tense moments and shocking twists, it promises a thrilling ride for those who dare to watch.
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:
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.
“Horizon: An American Saga (Chapter 1)” is a historical epic led by the iconic Kevin Costner. This miniseries tackles the turbulent period of the American Civil War (1861-1865). We see the conflict unfold through the eyes of families, friends,and even former enemies, exploring the struggle for national identity and the sacrifices made on both sides. Get ready for a sprawling and emotional journey in “Horizon” as it delves into the complexities of a nation divided.
This week’s movie roster is brimming with potential chart-toppers, each offering a unique flavor to suit various tastes. Whether you’re planning a family day out, a solo adventure into the supernatural, or a fun night out with friends, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. 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.
“This movie is so much fun and, in my opinion, smart and big,” says Channing Tatum of his new comedy drama Fly Me to the Moon. “And mounting a movie of this size is kind of like shooting a rocket to the moon.”
Channing Tatum in Fly Me to the Moon
Fly Me to the Moon is a stylish, multi-faceted comedy drama with a hint of romance set against the high-stakes backdrop of NASA’s historic Apollo 11 moon landing. Scarlett Johansson, who also produces the film, plays marketing maven Kelly Jones, tasked by the White House to stage a fake moon landing as back-up – and this mission does not sit well with launch director Cole Davis, played by Tatum.
Of the story, Tatum says, “It was unlike any script that I’ve been reading lately. It’s a movie you don’t see get made anymore. It has an older tone, but it does feel modern. When I met with Greg Berlanti, the director, I thought we were going to do this very, like, pastiche sort of tone, like His Girl Friday or something like that, but he was like, ‘No, definitely I want it to be you guys and really play with it.’ He really wanted us to improv a little as well, and that kind of made it a little bit more modern and not so rigid. It just has a really strange tone that I really loved, and set in a big, epic setting of our history in time in America.”
Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum in Fly Me to the Moon
One of the film’s strengths is the chemistry between its two leads, Johansson and Tatum. “Cole was a very good pilot and he always wanted to go to the moon, that’s why he came to NASA,” says Tatum about his character. “Turns out he had a medical condition that wouldn’t let him go, and now he’s going to take it upon himself to basically get all his friends that are pilots themselves [to the moon]. They’re very close and he’s going to be responsible for coaching them to get to the moon. At the time, it was really, really bad. They were not winning this race, and he was feeling the pressure. And then a saving grace angel comes in and gets him the money that he actually needs to be able to do this but kind of against his will.”
Speaking more about Johansson’s marketing maven character Kelly, Tatum says, “She definitely comes in and mixes things up in a man’s world. She just comes in like a bowling ball and just starts wrecking things –”
“ – or fixing things, I would say,” Johansson playfully interjects.
“ – wrecking them and then putting them back together in a better way, is what I was going for,” admits Tatum with a laugh.
Channing Tatum in Fly Me to the Moon
Besides Johansson and Tatum, the film also stars Woody Harrelson, Ray Romano and Jim Rash, who play characters that are just as memorable. Johansson, who, as one of the producers had a hand in choosing the director, gives credit to Greg Berlanti, whose previous credits include Love, Simon and DC’s Arrowverse. “Greg is such a champion for all of the characters,” says Johansson. “He really loves actors and performance so much, and celebrates comedy and nuance.”
Like Tatum, Johansson was also very impressed with the film’s story. “It’s so unusual these days that a film is offered in theaters that has an original story, and has this kind of scope,” she says. “It’s a big movie but the story itself is very intimate, it’s like a character piece that’s in this massive, huge set piece. To me, getting to experience that in the fullest, watching it on the screen with an audience and get carried away, there’s a certain kind of nostalgia, a kind of magic to that tone of film that is not common now. So being able to experience that in theaters is like a wonderful night out.”
Will they make it or fake it? Find out when Fly Me to the Moon, also starring Woody Harrelson, Ray Romano and Jim Rash, opens in cinemas July 10. Fly Me to the Moon is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, #FlyMeToTheMoon @columbiapicph
30,000 fans. 300 cops. 1 serial killer. No escape. “Trap,” a new M. Night Shyamalan experience, starring Josh Hartnett, opens only in cinemas on July 31.
Warner Bros. Pictures presents a thrilling new experience in the world of M. Night Shyamalan – “Trap” – featuring performances by rising music star Saleka Shyamalan.
In “Trap,” a father and his teen daughter attend a pop concert, only to find themselves caught in the midst of a dark and sinister event.
Star-Studded Cast
Written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan, “Trap” stars Josh Hartnett, Ariel Donoghue, Saleka Shyamalan, Hayley Mills, and Alison Pill. The film is produced by Ashwin Rajan, Marc Bienstock, and M. Night Shyamalan, with Steven Schneider serving as the executive producer.
Save the Date
Opening in cinemas on July 31, “Trap” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.
Join the Conversation
Get ready to be thrilled and use the hashtag #TrapMovie to join the conversation online!
The silence is louder than ever as “A Quiet Place: Day One” smashes records with a global opening weekend tally of $98.5 million, marking the biggest opening in the franchise’s history. The film also made significant noise in the Philippines, achieving the second biggest opening weekend of 2024 in the country.
New York City on Lockdown: A Riveting Premise
Set in the heart of one of the world’s loudest cities, the third installment of the “A Quiet Place” franchise transports audiences back to the day the world fell silent. The film’s gripping narrative unfolds as hostile creatures attack anything that makes noise, bringing New York City to a standstill.
Critical Acclaim: The Best in the Series
IGN praises “A Quiet Place: Day One,” as the best in the series, writing “It’s impressive just how great A Quiet Place: Day One is. Not that the first two Quiet Place movies weren’t good – they’re both strong films in their own right. But this spinoff/prequel to those earlier films introduces new characters in a new setting that successfully elevates both the tension and the emotional impact of John Krasinski’s nearly dialogue-free horror films. The result is the series’ best movie to date.”
Stellar Cast and Setting
The Guardian highlights the film’s powerful setting and stellar cast. “It could be the idea of setting the Quiet Place prequel in New York, one of the noisiest places on Earth. Or perhaps it’s because the intimate, taut horror premise of the first two pictures is beefed up with some robust city-smashing disaster movie muscle. Maybe it’s the casting of the always excellent Lupita Nyong’o in a textured and complex role – she plays Sam, a poet and a terminal cancer patient who just wants to live a little before she dies. All of this combines to ramp up the impact of A Quiet Place: Day One considerably, compared with its immediate predecessor.”
Unique and Refreshing
The Los Angeles Times appreciates the unique premise of the film, likening it to classic survival stories. “It’s a refreshing, near-radical concept to build a studio film around,” they note. “As Sam sets off, a tote bag on her arm and her black-and-white support cat Frodo beside her, you may be reminded of that other woman-and-feline survival story, ‘Alien,’ stripped to the bone.”
Don’t Miss Out on the Thrills
Experience the spine-tingling suspense of “A Quiet Place: Day One,” now showing in Philippine cinemas.
