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Cinemalaya 21: ‘Layag sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos’ Charts Bold New Horizons in Philippine Cinema
Cinemalaya 2025 Sails Onward with Grit and Grace

True to its spirit of fearless storytelling, the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival is back—and it’s more daring, dynamic, and defiant than ever.

Happening from October 3 to 12, this year’s 21st edition bears the theme: “Cinemalaya 21: Layag sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos”—a poetic call to navigate not just the waves of cinema, but the crosscurrents of social change and creative risk-taking. Once again, Cinemalaya proves it remains a powerful vessel for Filipino filmmakers ready to brave artistic storms and rise above the tides.

A Fierce Lineup: 10 Full-Length Films in Competition

Anchored in imagination and artistic integrity, Cinemalaya 21 unveils 10 full-length feature films vying for the coveted Best Film Balanghai Trophy:

Bloom Where You Are Planted – Nonilon Abao

The Cagayan Valley Region in the Philippines serves as the dedicated workplace of Agnes (a development worker), the chosen home of Amanda (a jailed mother-artist-activist), and the birthplace of Randy (a slain peace consultant). Yet, they find themselves unable to return home: one is relentlessly pursued by the government, another is imprisoned, and the third is killed on his journey home. The paths taken by these three activists will be explored including the pit stops, obstacles, detours, and the long road ahead in the journey towards rebuilding a home with the people of Cagayan – a place that they work together to shape, and also shape who they are. Amid all these, the film explores their disrupted connections to home and celebrates their enduring resilience in the face of adversity.

Child No. 82 – Tim Rone Villanueva

Maximo “Boy Kana” Maniego Sr., the biggest action-fantasy movie star of Philippine Cinema, has passed away. Max, a 17-year-old student rumored to be an illegitimate son of the late icon, has to prove that he is the 82nd child before the end of the public viewing hours. When proven, it can help Max claim his identity, inheritance, and showbiz dream to support his pregnant teenage girlfriend and their baby. Will Max reach the casket before the clock strikes if he needs to stand in line with hundreds of fans and villains who also claim their places in Boy Kana’s life?

Cinemartyrs – Sari Dalena

A young filmmaker sets out to recreate forgotten massacres from Philippine history. But when she is challenged by the committee that is belittling her skills, she agrees to go to the present-day war-torn locations where the atrocities occurred. Overcoming one obstacle after another with her small crew, they begin shooting at a site where a thousand men, women and children were slaughtered. But as soon as the camera starts rolling, the angry spirits are awakened, and the lives of her team and the villagers are put in peril. The brutal traumas of history echoing to the present day.

Habang Nilalamon ng Hydra ang Kasaysayan – Dustin Celestino

Four Filipinos cope with life after a painful political defeat. Kiko, a political strategist, questions the purpose of his lifelong struggle. Bea, a history professor, attempts to teach a past her country would rather forget. David, a disillusioned speechwriter, becomes entrapped by the very lies he tries to challenge. Mela, an election lawyer, confronts family secrets she has long avoided. Each one searches for purpose as truths fade, histories blur, and memory itself becomes an act of defiance.

Padamlágan – Jenn Romano

As the Naga community collectively recalls the 1972 Colgante Bridge tragedy through archives and memory, we see Doring — a devoted voyador — caught between faith, tradition, and the fractures within his own family. Every year, he joins thousands in Naga City’s fluvial procession for Our Lady of Peñafrancia, but this year feels different. His estranged son Ivan has just returned from Manila, restless and questioning, a presence both near and distant.

Paglilitis – Cheska Marfori & Raymund Barcelon

After years of trauma from pervasive sexual harassment at her workplace, Jonalyn Samuel quietly lives as a recluse. A passionate lawyer, however, finds and persuades Jonalyn to file a case against her former employer, the CEO of one of the biggest companies in the country. Initially reluctant, the lawyer explains that times have changed and the woke generation will greatly help in pursuing justice. Convinced, Jonalyn takes a risk and finds hope through the overwhelming support she receives through social media. But, the platform that initially gives her assurance soon becomes a toxic space that presents her as a heartless perpetrator instead of a victim.

Open Endings – Nigel Santos & Keavy Vicente

follows Hannah, Charlie, Kit, and Mihan, four queer women in their early 30s who share a deeply entangled history: first girl crush, first girlfriend, first kiss, first love, great love, heartbreaks, one-night stands, even ghosting. The romance may have ended, but the friendship held strong. When Hannah is pulled into deep grief, the others show up without hesitation. Through breakups, family drama, and personal struggles, they keep choosing one another. Just when life starts to feel stable, Hannah is faced with a decision that changes everything without warning. Can their friendship carry the weight of what’s next? Will old feelings resurface?

Republika ng Pipolipinas – Renei Dimla

Cora Vitug, a disillusioned farmer, protests against the government’s plan to take her land and home by renouncing her Filipino citizenship and building her own micronation she calls Republika ng Pipolipinas. Her solitary act of defiance divides people. She inspires some while gaining the unfair judgement of many who question her motives and her sanity. When a new government project hastens her displacement, Cora and the people who believe in her cause set out to reveal the webbed corruption that extends far beyond the confines of the small town. As they work against the clock and with looming threats against their freedom, Cora and the citizens of Republika ng Pipolipinas prove that what truly makes a great nation is not its land nor its history, but the courage of its people.

Raging – Ryan Machado

Set in the mid-90s in Sibuyan, Romblon, Philippines, Raging follows Eli, a young man in his late teens who was raped by one of his peers. After reporting the incident to the authorities and having it dismissed to be a playful prank between friends, he retreats into a world of silence and isolation, magnified when his father leaves him to work in a covert mining site in their small town. When he tries to return to normal life, his abuser continues to appear, casting a shadow over his every move and provoking at every opportunity. One night, when Eli witnesses a plane crash that vanishes without a trace, something sparks inside him, igniting a strong desire to break his silence. This strange event leads him to conduct a personal quest that parallels his quest for justice.

Warla – Kevin Alambra

Young Kitkat is taken in by Joice, who leads a group of transgender women kidnapping foreigners to fund gender-affirming surgeries that they believe will finally allow them to live as their true selves. Kitkat, however, does not feel the need to change her body to be a real woman. The others in the gang, like Luningning and Barbie Ann, carry the heavy scars of rejection, deep gender dysphoria, and painful memories of cruelty they have endured, making the surgeries feel like a lifeline. For Kitkat, who has never known acceptance from a family, finding belonging with these women is both healing and complicated, as she must confront the harsh and destructive choices the group makes. Loosely based on a true story, this crime drama explores how women who long to stop being preyed upon transform into perpetrators, carving out power in the only space they feel is left to them.

Each title presents a distinct point of view—unfiltered, fearless, and fully Filipino.

Spotlight on Short Films: 10 Compact Cinematic Gems

Small in length but big in impact, the Short Feature Film competition lineup showcases:
- Ascension from the Office Cubicle – Hannah Silvestre
- FIGAT – Handiong Kapuno
- Hasang – Daniel de la Cruz
- I’m Best Left Inside My Head – Elian Idioma
- Kay Basta Angkarabo Yay Bagay Ibat ha Langit – Marie Estela Paiso
- Kung Tugnaw ang Kaidalman sang Lawod – Seth Andrew Blanca
- Please Keep This Copy – Miguel Lorenzo Peralta
- Radikals – Arvin Belarmino
- The Next 24 Hours – Carl Joseph Papa
- Water Sports – Whammy Alcazaren
These 10 shorts promise striking visuals, raw emotion, and groundbreaking perspectives—proof that brevity can still pack a punch.

More Screens, More Stories: Cinemalaya Goes Nationwide

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and Cinemalaya Foundation, Inc. are expanding horizons further by making this year’s festival more accessible than ever. In addition to Ayala Malls—Cinemalaya’s long-time partner—Red Carpet Cinemas by Shangri-La Plaza joins the list as a main venue. Gateway Cineplex is also onboard, ensuring more audiences can catch these independent gems on the big screen.

Alternatibo in Focus: Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula

Running alongside the festival is the 37th Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video—Southeast Asia’s longest-running competition for alternative film. It honors excellence in Narrative Shorts, Documentaries, Experimental Films, and Animation, reinforcing the commitment to diverse and innovative Filipino storytelling.

Two Decades of Impact: Cinemalaya’s Legacy

Since its inception in 2005, Cinemalaya has championed over 1,000 independent films, helping launch the careers of visionary filmmakers whose works have earned accolades both locally and globally. Now in its 21st year, the festival continues to chart new creative territories—unstoppable, unfiltered, and undeniably Filipino.

So whether you’re a cinephile, a curious viewer, or someone looking for honest stories with heart, Cinemalaya 21 welcomes you aboard. Let the stories stir you, the images move you, and the waves of truth carry you forward.

Follow Cinemalaya 21:

Get updates, schedules, and behind-the-scenes moments through the CCP and Cinemalaya official websites: www.culturalcenter.gov.ph and www.cinemalaya.org

Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) for more!
October 7, 2025
Exclusive: Disney+ Press Conference for Their First Period Drama ‘The Murky Stream’

ClickTheCity was invited to attend (virtually) the press conference for Disney+’s new K-drama – their first period drama – ‘The Murky Stream.’ This exciting nine-episode series promises to be an action-packed story set around corruption in the Gyeonggang River, where all trade takes place. It follows the bandits who dominate the ports and illegally impose taxes that put pressure on the merchant class. The drama revolves around a laborer with a secret past (Si Yul, played by Rowoon), the young leader of a merchant guild (Choi Eun, played by Shin Ye-eun), and the newly appointed officer with a connection to Si Yul (Jung Chun played by Park Seo-ham).

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference

Hosted by the go-to MC of these events, Park Gyurim, she leads the actors up onstage one by one for photos. In attendance were Rowoon, Shin Ye-eun, and Park Seo-ham, along with Park Ji-hwan (who plays the bandit leader Mu-deok), Choi Guy-hwa (who plays a corrupt police official), Kim Dong-woon (who plays a mysterious Jurchen warrior), and director Choo Chang-min.

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference

Surprisingly, when posing solo, the three young leads looked a bit awkward as they pose in front of the photographers. But once Rowoon, Shin Ye-eun, and Park Seo-ham were called onstage together, they instantly loosened up and began to have fun. Their cute and playful side suddenly came out, laughing and teasing each other as they posed. They seemed far more at ease and in their element when they are in a group.

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference

Right off the bat, host Park Gyurim remarks about the show’s particular focus. Unlike other period K-dramas, ‘The Murky Stream’ tells a very different kind of story from what we are used to seeing.

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference | Director Choo Chang-min

Director Choo: “The period piece is usually about the kings and the royal family. What drew me to this script was this was a story about the “low lives.” These groups are essentially bandits. That really drew me in.”

With such a story, it required a certain transformation for its lead star, Rowoon, who is more known for his charm in such roles like ‘The King’s Affection, ‘Tomorrow,’ ‘Extraordinary You,’ and ‘She Would Never Know.’ But here, we see a completely different Rowoon. On the previews and on the trailer, he’s dirty and grimy. He’s always covered in dirt and sweat, and his countenance is marked by facial hair, which may be make-up.

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference

Rowoon: “Director Choo told me that he wanted to take away my “coolness” or my stylishness, which he said was one of my weapons.” Now that he didn’t have that in his arsenal, Rowoon said he had “to bring in something new to the role” that he had never done before.

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference

Park Ji-hwan: “We were playing bandits so we were dirty, and I could just lie on the floor and it would be okay.” He also remarked that he and Rowoon avoided taking baths, “I wouldn’t even wash up,” he said but laughed and said “Rowoon always smelled good.”

Affectionately, Rowoon quickly responded, “You were smelling my soul.”

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference

This was further expounded by Shin Ye-eun who said: “We were under the sun and Rowoon was sweating all the time and he wouldn’t take a fan in-between take. He was so sweaty, but he wanted to keep it. It made it look and feel real.” But Rowoon was quick to point out that his role was that of a bandit, so he had “very little clothing on” but added that Shin Yeeun was playing a merchant and was “dressed in layers and layers of clothes but you’d never see it bring her down.”

This sense of camaraderie was ob full display onstage. The three young actors kept exchanging compliments and were very grateful for the senior cast members for all their generosity and support. Director Choo Chang-min shared that it was important for him to work with a younger generation of actors and “match them with veteran actors” to create a synergy on set. The approach clearly worked for him as he later remarked that “It was a fun set to work in. Everyone was having a good time. People were joking and just enjoying themselves.”

For the show, the grand scale of Choo Chang-min’s vision meant having to build the set on an exterior location. “98% of our shoot was on location,” Rowoon explained. “We had no interior shots (soundstage), and it helped us really immerse in the world,” he added. Choo shares that he “tried to shoot in a soundstage with CGI but we decided to find a location and capture it using minimal CGI and I’m very happy about that decision.” Along with the production design, the action choreography is immense so much so that Rowoon almost threw up while working on a fight sequence because he was working so hard. Seo-han shared that he had to “train in swordsmanship, archery and horseback riding,” which audiences will get to see by Episode 2. Rowoon continues saying, “Our action scenes are very raw and very athletic. We made sure that each character has a go-to weapon during fights, and it would be nice to see the audience try to figure out what the go-to weapons of each character are.”

With its grand visuals, complex characters, and a story set against backdrop of Gyeonggang River, The Murky Stream marks a new chapter for Disney+. Don’t miss the next episode to see where the river leads.

October 7, 2025
Movie Review: Cinemalaya XXI: ‘Habang Nilalamon ng Hydra ang Kasaysayan’ Is a Politically-Charged Love Letter

While the film opens with a disclaimer that the events and characters depicted in ‘Habang Nilalamon ng Hydra ang Kasaysayan’ are purely fictional, there’s no doubt on the event that director and writer Dustin Celestino is exploring in his movie. The narrative begins during an election, where a woman candidate loses, leaving her campaign team, Kiko (Jojit Lorenzo) and David (Zanjoe Marudo) to deal with the crushing blow of defeat. Kiko’s wife, Bea (Dolly De Leon), a history professor, begins to spiral after the winning candidate turns out to be the son of the former president whose regime caused the disappearance of her father decades prior. In the midst of this, David begins dating Mela (Mylene Dizon), a constitutional lawyer and the daughter of the general who is suspected of being the executioner of that same president.

BTS HABANG NILALAMON NG HYDRA ANG KASAYSAYAN | Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division’

These four characters wrestle and struggle with the shifting political landscape, dissecting the loss of history through technology and changing social norms, while desperately trying figure out where hopes lies when the truth no longer holds power.

HABANG NILALAMON NG HYDRA ANG KASAYSAYAN | Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division’

Once again, Celestino takes what is essentially a theatrical narrative and manages to turn it cinematic by his dynamic use of camerawork, lensed by the incredible Kara Moreno. Each duet (as most of the scenes happen with only two people talking) or the powerful dinner sequence with all four leads together, can be imagined as scenes from a play. They are verbose, the characters figuring out the world through dialogue. It’s didactic, for sure, but the setup is so precise that allows for these conversations to happen.

HABANG NILALAMON NG HYDRA ANG KASAYSAYAN | Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division’

HABANG NILALAMON NG HYDRA ANG KASAYSAYAN | Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division’

Kiko and David, former speechwriters for the female presidential candidate, are articulate and intelligent. David even being a professor of Greek mythology before joining the campaign. Kiko and Bea are also intelligent and articulate people, with Bea being a history professor. All their conversations echo the kind of conversations that might have transpired back in 2022, on the actual election that this film is obviously inspired from.

HABANG NILALAMON NG HYDRA ANG KASAYSAYAN | Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division’

Adding to the mix is Mela (Mylene Dizon), the mercenary constitutional lawyer who grew up in privilege and possesses the strength and confidence to speak her mind. She, too, is a forced to be reckoned with. These characters and the situations Celestino chooses to portray onscreen is permissible for his exercise in exploring the issues of disinformation and the absence of truth (or the lack of power of truth) in today’s socio-political discourse.

BTS HABANG NILALAMON NG HYDRA ANG KASAYSAYAN | Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division’

Moreno’s close-ups are strikingly intense, they move in really close, oftentimes cutting off the headroom at the top of the frame, as Celestino is putting equal emphasis on their emotions as well as their reasoning; even when emotions sometimes overcome reason. It is so close, almost claustrophobic, that I feel that a story that is talking about real-world events needs a shot of the world being discussed.

BTS HABANG NILALAMON NG HYDRA ANG KASAYSAYAN | Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division’

As I’m watching this film, and enjoying this philosophical debate, I found myself looking for the world that they are talking about. Maybe some exterior shots, some long shots of the characters within that milieu. By keeping everything so close and so intimate and personal, I do not see the world that the characters are struggling so hard to save.

BTS HABANG NILALAMON NG HYDRA ANG KASAYSAYAN | Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division’

BTS HABANG NILALAMON NG HYDRA ANG KASAYSAYAN | Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division’

With this powerhouse cast, though, the acting is superb. It’s an ensemble piece that also features Anna Luna as Mela’s sister, Nanding Josef as Mela’s father, Frances Makil-Ignacio as the female presidential candidate, and Andoy Ranay as the newly elected president. Each one delivers a nuanced performance, barely acting, just being their characters. They throw the lines so effortlessly, truly encapsulating the character’s milieu, their intelligence.

BTS HABANG NILALAMON NG HYDRA ANG KASAYSAYAN | Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division’

But the scene-stealer here is Mylene Dizon. Her character is so complex and is right at the point of realisation, as she is dating the activist, David. She balances between indifference and waking up to the horrors of her family’s past. It’s such a delicate moment for her character, and Dizon nails the performance to a tee.

BTS HABANG NILALAMON NG HYDRA ANG KASAYSAYAN | Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division’

On a technical level, ‘Habang Nilalamon ng Hydra ang Kasaysayan’ is an exquisitely crafted film. Its movement between characters, crisp dialogue, and masterful shots and framing are all executed to perfection. The performances are exemplary (and may win the film an acting ensemble award). However, its focus on just its characters can make the film feel small when it’s talking about a society that is crumbling apart. It’s intelligent but its emotions can feel stifled by having it focused solely on the characters. What is sure is that this film has an intended audience, a cinematic group hug for people who underwent the same thoughts and emotions these characters are going through.

Habang Nilalamon ng Hydra ang Kasaysayan is showing on the big screen! Check cinema showtimes near you and grab your tickets today!

This year, don’t miss Cinemalaya 21: LAYAG sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos happening from October 3-12, 2025! Witness another stellar lineup of stories that will move you and showcase the brilliance of Philippine cinema. Follow the Cultural Center of the Philippines and Cinemalaya for updates!

October 7, 2025
Movie Review — Endings and Beginnings: A Review of Cinemalaya XXI Opening Film ‘The Elysian Field’

The Indian film ‘The Elysian Field’ opens Cinemalaya XXI with a poignant story about how the modern world is slowly wiping away small villages and what that looks like. This slice-of-life story gives us a peak at a secluded village in Meghalaya in the northeastern region of India. The village has only six inhabitants left and their lives are completely intertwined.

Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division

The film opens with Livingstone (Albert Mawrie), who is coming home on a bus with the coffin of his recently deceased wife, Belinda. As he arrives, the three remaining men of the village – Complete (Richard Kharpuri), Promise (Merlvin Mukhim), and Friday (Jeetesh Sharma) – help carry the coffin down across a huge field, two bridges, a hill, and further along back to their secluded village. There they are joined by Maia (Baia Marbanjang) and Miss Helen (Helen Duiia), Livingstone’s mother. Over the course of the film, we see how life fares in this empty town that is surprisingly filled with life. We see them struggle with electricity, gossip about each other, a romance begins to bloom, and the spectre of death hangs above them in their little village filled with empty houses and ruins.

Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division

Written by Paulami Duttagupta and directed by Pradip Kurbah, the film immerses us in a world that is slowly fading away. Set against the gorgeous Meghalaya landscape, we are transported to a place seemingly beyond time and geography. To be able to resupply, the villagers must take the one and only bus back to the city (of which there are no scenes) and the impression is given that this is a whole day affair. The rest of the time is spent living out their days in the empty village, cooking food for each other, drinking at nights, and living truly as one community.

There are story elements that pop up: Belinda’s children from before her marriage to Livingstone are contesting her will and Livingstone must deal with the litigation and go to the city every now and then, Complete is fighting with the government for not providing service to their tiny village, Promise must continue to fix every issue involving electricity and electronics, while Maia finds herself wooed by some of the men in the village.

Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division

But none of these take center stage in the story. These are just activities in the lives of the people of this secluded little town, and the film manages to show us this burst of live despite the fact that it is also dying right in front of us. There’s no future here. At some points, the men begin to dig graves for all of the inhabitants so that it wouldn’t be left to the women if the men died first. But while the threat of extinction hangs above them, they are just filled with life.

Photo courtesy of Cinemalaya / CCP Corporate Communications Division

It’s a gorgeous movie once you allow its languid, almost dreamlike pace to sink in. The way by which this small community engages with one another is very Filipino in spirit and in values. It’s a love letter, for sure, to a way of life that is slowly disappearing and while this may be a Northeastern Indian issue, this could very well be a small town in Northern Luzon or in the mountains of Mindanao. While being inherently Meghalayan in culture, the way director Pradib Kurbah puts it in his camera frame makes it utterly universal.

The performances are exquisite, with Marbanjang being the heart and soul of this ensemble. Her warmth is the center of which the community revolves around. The acting is so natural, so subtle and layered. It makes the film poignant and funny all at the same time.

The Elysian Field is showing on the big screen! Check cinema showtimes near you and grab your tickets today!

This year, don’t miss Cinemalaya 21: LAYAG sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos happening from October 3-12, 2025! Witness another stellar lineup of stories that will move you and showcase the brilliance of Philippine cinema. Follow the Cultural Center of the Philippines and Cinemalaya for updates!

October 6, 2025
Colleen Hoover’s “Regretting You” Wows Fans at First Public Screening — A Powerful Film for Women, Mothers, Daughters and Friends
“So much fun!” – That’s how author Colleen Hoover described the atmosphere at the first public screening of Regretting You— the latest film adaptation based on one of her best-selling novels.

Hosted by Hoover herself, alongside fellow author and film producer Anna Todd (After series), the intimate event gathered passionate fans for a special evening of film, fun, and feels. And judging by the reactions, this one’s going to be a tearjerker — in the best way possible.

A Night of Firsts — and All the Feels

Before the lights dimmed, guests were treated to a warm and candid Q&A session with Hoover and Todd, offering behind-the-scenes insights and heartfelt anecdotes from their journey bringing the novel to the big screen.

Then came the movie — a heartfelt, emotional rollercoaster that had fans laughing, crying, and applauding with joy.

Social media was instantly flooded with glowing reactions:

“I love when a movie is sad and cute and wholesome and funny all in one”. “Colleen Hoover, you did it again. Congratulations on another incredible movie!!! And big thank you to @paramountco for having us” content creator @mollykatecline posted.

@sammietrinidadcreates shared how the movie took her on a feel-good emotional journey: “If you like to cry, this movie is for you. If you like to laugh, this movie is for you. It tickled my bookish heart. What an unforgettable experience. Thank you @regrettingyoumovie & @colleenhoover”

Nikki Snook, a producer for “Entertainment Tonight” enjoyed the film and invited everyone to see it too:

“I loved the film, I cried, laughed and it’s a perfect film to see with girlfriends. I hadn’t read the book but now that you gave it to me, I want to read it. This is the perfect movie for women, daughters, mothers and friends. I’m telling everyone to see it.”

Watch the Official Trailer Here:

Praise for the Cast: Mckenna Grace Shines Bright

Film journalist Perri Nemiroff of Collider praised the cast, spotlighting Mckenna Grace’s standout performance as Clara Grant:

“Such a perfect film for what it is. Mckenna can really embrace any character. I really loved her performance.”

Content creator @makfranziska was in awe of Grace as well, posting:

“Absolutely loved this adaptation to such a good book. I’m so grateful to have seen this beautiful film! Mckenna’s performance was captivating and didn’t disappoint! Must see movie for this year.

About the Film: A Story of Secrets, Loss, and Healing

From the author of It Ends with Us and the director of The Fault in Our Stars, Regretting You explores the delicate dynamics of a mother-daughter relationship tested by tragedy, betrayal, and buried family secrets.

Allison Williams stars as Morgan Grant, a woman trying to keep her daughter’s life on track — even as her own is unraveling. Mckenna Grace plays Clara, her spirited teenage daughter, who begins to question everything she thought she knew about love and family.

When a shocking accident reveals truths that neither is ready to face, the two must learn how to trust — and love — each other again.

The star-studded cast also includes Dave Franco, Mason Thames, Sam Morelos, Scott Eastwood, Willa Fitzgerald, and Clancy Brown, with direction by Josh Boone and a screenplay by Susan McMartin.

Watch “THE mother-duo” Featurette:

Coming Soon to Philippine Cinemas

Regretting You is a joint production between Paramount Pictures, Constantin Film, Harbinger Pictures, and Frayed Pages. With themes of growth, resilience, and rediscovery, this is more than a book-to-screen adaptation — it’s a film that speaks to anyone who’s ever lost, loved, or longed to heal.

Catch Regretting You in Philippine cinemas starting October 22.

Film Credits:
- Directed by: Josh Boone
- Written by: Susan McMartin
- Based on the novel by: Colleen Hoover
- Produced by: Brunson Green (p.g.a.), Anna Todd, Flavia Viotti (p.g.a.), Robert Kulzer
- Executive Producers: Colleen Hoover, Allison Williams, Mckenna Grace, Dave Franco, and more
- Starring: Allison Williams, Mckenna Grace, Dave Franco, Mason Thames, Sam Morelos, Scott Eastwood, Willa Fitzgerald, Clancy Brown
Stay updated with #RegrettingYouMovie and follow @paramountpicsph for more.

_{Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”}
October 3, 2025
Disney+ Streaming Review: ‘The Murky Stream’ Starts Strong With a Transformed Rowoon Heading This Incredible Ensemble

The first three episodes of Disney+’s new K-drama ‘The Murky Stream’ have dropped, introducing a dark, gritty world of the underworld surrounding the ports of Korea’s past. A period drama in the time of Joseon, ‘The Murky Stream’ stays away from the stories of kings and nobles, as most period K-dramas tend to do. Instead, the focus is on the merchant class and the bandits and how criminality and corruption festers at the underbelly, far away from the king’s gaze. Director Choo Chang-min, best known for his work on film, brings his cinematic style to this nine-episode drama and tries to keep it thrilling at every turn.

The story revolves around Jang Si Yul (played by Rowoon). Si Yul is a laborer in the docks, treated poorly by the bandits who charge exorbitant prices to carry goods in and out of the boats that belong to the merchant class.

Source: Disney+ PH FB

The head bandit in Si Yul’s district, Park Mu-deok (played brilliantly by Park Ji-hwan), is now just a shadow of his former self. It is implied he was one of the first bandits in the area but now he’s old and a coward and the younger bandit leaders bully him and make fun of him. His contemporary, Deok-Gae (Choi Young-Woo), now oversees all the bandits in the area, and their relationship is an interesting one. In the first two episodes, Si Yul suffers every hardship imaginable until he finally snaps and faces off with Choi Eun (the formidable Shin Ye-eun), the daughter of a prominent merchant family who is taking leadership of the merchant’s guild, whom he believes has avoided payment for his labor.

Within the first three episodes, we see Si Yul challenge the status quo and finds himself at the crosshairs of Mu-deok, who plans to use him and his strength and fighting skills to regain his past glory as frightening bandit. Along the way, the show also portrays the depths of the corruptions of these faraway towns as the police inspector Lee Dol-Gae (Choi Gwi-hwa) is set up to the main antagonist of the show. By the second episode, we see a young new officer, Jung Chun (Park Seo-ham), who is disgusted by all the corruption surrounding the police bureau and who has a connection with Si-Yul.

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference

The way the show shifts and turns are promising a complex story about the fate of the towns surrounding the Gyeonggang River that questions whether righteousness can survive in such a place.

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference | Director Choo Chang-min

Director Choo Chang-min ensures that the action sequences are hard-hitting and brutal, while the world he builds is gritty and grounded. The bandits, especially Mu-deok and Si Yul are always grimy and dirty, a stark contrast with how clean and put-together Choi Eun and Jung Chun are. The show presents all the characters are leads and it feels like an ensemble piece, though we know Rowoon’s Si Yul is at the center of it. No character feels underutilized in the first three episodes.

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference

And what a transformation for Rowoon! Gone is his charm, as Si Yul is unlike any character he has played before. He barely speaks and has to project his inner world through his eyes, which are almost always glaring. It’s amazing how the star of such popular K-dramas like ‘Tomorrow’ and ‘The King’s Affection’ could play someone so broken down and undignified.

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference

Shin Ye-eun continues to show off her talents as Choi Eun. As the merchant’s daughter, she is capable and fearless but also way in over her head. She was amazing in ‘Jeongnyeon: The Star is Born,’ practically stealing the show from the amazing Kim Taeri and in ‘The Murky Stream,’ she doesn’t disappoint.

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference

This marks Park Seo-ham’s first mainstream role after gaining popularity from his previous role in the hit BL series ‘Semantic Error.’ His face gives away all of Jung Chun’s shock and disappointment and his expressive eyes help us understand his character’s motivations and agenda, as he has yet to show his full backstory.

Photo courtesy of Disney+ | The Murky Stream Press Conference

But the most striking of all performances is Park Ji-hwan’s Mu-deok. Park Ji-hwan’s filmography is extensive, and I’ve seen him in ‘Gyeongseong Creature,’ ‘Our Blues,’ and most recently in ‘Seoul Busters,’ where his comedic timing is off the charts. But here, as Mu-deok, he is both frightening as he is pathetic. He’s a completely different person altogether and he’s primal and really all strung out. It’s an incredible performance as he does not play for sympathy. He’s the one to watch in this show.

As Disney+’s first period K-drama, they are really hitting hard. The show looks expensive, and the scenes are grand. The story is complex and the dynamics of the characters within the first three episodes promise to be very intriguing. Whether the show can wrap things up within nine episodes is suspicious. The set up is big. The story seems grander than what nine episodes can hold.

My Rating:

Catch the gripping twists of The Murky Stream now streaming exclusively on Disney+. Don’t miss the next episode to see where the river leads.

October 3, 2025
True Evil Never Dies: The Grabber Returns in “Black Phone 2,” Starring Ethan Hawke and Mason Thames

The Grabber Is Back… and He’s Deadlier Than Ever

Back in 2022, The Black Phone crept into cinemas and straight into our nightmares. With its eerie mix of supernatural thrills and emotional depth, the film became a surprise horror hit—introducing audiences to a chilling new villain: the Grabber, played with eerie menace by Ethan Hawke.

Now, evil calls once more. Black Phone 2 picks up the story, delivering a sequel that digs deeper into the trauma of survival—and unleashes a more terrifying force from beyond the grave. Returning to direct and co-write is horror visionary Scott Derrickson, who crafted the original with longtime creative partner C. Robert Cargill.

“It was extremely rewarding to see audiences embrace the film the way they did, specifically because so much of it came directly from my own childhood,” Derrickson says. “As an artist, seeing those personal feelings and memories connect with so many people—especially young people—added a sense of purpose to the darker memories of my childhood. It made me feel like it was all somehow meant to be.”

Horror That Hits Close to Home

Derrickson and Cargill aren’t just spinning ghost stories—they’re tapping into deeply personal experiences. The impact of The Black Phone didn’t end with the credits. Once the film landed on streaming, it exploded online—spawning TikToks, memes, and fan theories. It quickly became a rite of passage for many horror-loving teens.

“With Black Phone 2, we were able to keep building on characters rooted in our own childhoods and what it was like growing up in the ’70s and ‘80s,” Cargill says. “A lot of our real experiences are buried in these stories. That emotional grounding lets us balance the horror with heart. And it is part of why the first film kept growing after its release. When The Black Phone hit Peacock, it took off even more. Teenagers were watching it, making memes and TikToks, remixing scenes. For a lot of them, it was their first horror movie, and they fell in love with the genre. That is when Scott and I started getting messages every day from people asking, ‘When is the sequel? Is tere a prequel? Are you making Black Phone 2?’”

The Nightmare Isn’t Over

In Black Phone 2, it’s been four years since siblings Finn (Mason Thames) and Gwen (Madeleine McGraw) escaped the Grabber’s clutches. But just when they think the past is behind them, Gwen begins receiving mysterious calls—this time, in her dreams.

Her visions lead them to a desolate winter camp, where three young boys are being stalked by something sinister. With the Grabber growing more powerful in death, the siblings must face their darkest fears—before the nightmare becomes reality.

A Deeper Look at Trauma

At its core, Black Phone 2 is more than a ghost story—it’s a powerful exploration of trauma and how it echoes through generations.

“One of the core themes of The Black Phone was the idea of children carrying the sins of their father, and that continues here,” Cargill says. “In this film, Finn is coping in the same ways his father once did. When we meet him again, he’s numbing himself from the past, falling into the same patterns. We wanted to explore how trauma echoes through families and whether that cycle can be broken.”

Producer Jason Blum, who helped bring the original to life, is confident fans will connect with the sequel just as strongly.

“The script for Black Phone 2 reminded me what an incredible foundation Joe Hill’s story gave us, and how brilliantly Scott and Cargill have built on it,” Blum says. “They’ve deepened the mythology while keeping the intimacy of the first film, balancing horror, emotion and character in a way that feels real. That’s what makes great horror—it has to matter, it has to connect—and they’ve delivered that again here.”

Philippine Release Date

The Grabber returns when Black Phone 2 hits Philippine cinemas this October 15.

Prepare yourself for an experience that’s darker, deeper, and even more unforgettable than the first.

For updates, sneak peeks, and exclusive content, follow: Facebook: Universal Pictures PH, Instagram: @UniversalPicturesPH and TikTok: @UniversalPicsPH

Answer the call. Evil still waits.

October 2, 2025
New Movies This Week: Good Boy, Isla Babuyan, Shell, The Smashing Machine, The Shadow’s Edge, and More!

It’s New Movie Wednesday! October kicks off with an exciting lineup of fresh releases and special events. Dwayne Johnson transforms into a UFC legend in The Smashing Machine, Elisabeth Moss and Kate Hudson unravel sinister secrets in Shell, and dramas like Isla Babuyan and The Last BeerGin bring heartfelt local stories to the big screen. For thrills, there’s Good Boy, a chilling horror with a loyal pup at its core, and Jackie Chan returns in the high-stakes action thriller The Shadow’s Edge. But that’s not all, moviegoers are also treated to one-week-only big screen events: Avatar: The Way of Water splashes back in 3D, 4DX, and IMAX 3D, Hamilton hits the cinema stage, and ARMYs get to celebrate BTS Movie Week. Which ones are going on your watchlist?

Here’s your guide to everything hitting the big screen this week:

Good Boy

2025 • PG • 1 hr 11 mins
HORROR, THRILLER
GET SHOWTIMES

Isla Babuyan

2025 • R-18 • 2 hrs 1 min
COMEDY, DRAMA, ROMANCE
GET SHOWTIMES

Shell

2025 • R-16 • 1 hrs 41 mins
DRAMA, HORROR, THRILLER
GET SHOWTIMES

The Last BeerGin

2025 • PG • 1 hrs 32 mins
COMEDY, DRAMA
GET SHOWTIMES

The Shadow’s Edge

2025 • R-13 • 2 hrs 22 mins
ACTION, CRIME, THRILLER
GET SHOWTIMES

The Smashing Machine

2025 • R-16 • 2 hrs 3 mins
DRAMA
GET SHOWTIMES

Special Big Screen Events

Avatar: The Way of Water

2022 • PG • 3 hrs 12 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, SCIENCE FICTION
GET SHOWTIMES

Now Showing in 3D, 4DX, and IMAX 3D
James Cameron’s blockbuster splashes back for one week only, bringing Pandora’s lush oceans and epic battles to immersive formats. If you missed it the first time or just want to experience it again in full 3D spectacle, now’s your chance.

Hamilton (On the Big Screen)

2025 • PG • 2 hrs 59 mins
DRAMA, HISTORY
GET SHOWTIMES

BTS Movie Week

BTS 2019 Speak Yourself London Remastered

2025 • PG • 1 hrs 47 mins
MUSIC
GET SHOWTIMES

BTS 2021: Muster SOWOOZOO Remastered

2025 • PG • 1 hrs 34 mins
DOCUMENTARY, MUSIC
GET SHOWTIMES

FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING

Missed last week’s releases? No worries, these crowd-pleasers are still packing theaters with action, laughs, and heart. Here’s what’s holding strong:

Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc

2025 • R-16 • 1 hr 39 mins
ACTION, ANIMATION, FANTASY
GET SHOWTIMES

Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie

2025 • G • 1 hr 38 mins
ACTION
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Minamahal: 100 Bulaklak Para Kay Luna

2025 • PG • 1 hr 57 mins
ROMANCE
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One Battle After Another

2025 • R-16 • 2 hrs 42 mins
ACTION, CRIME, THRILLER
GET SHOWTIMES

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle

2025 • R-13 • 2 hrs 35 mins
ACTION, ANIMATION, FANTASY, THRILLER
GET SHOWTIMES

There you have it, a roundup that’s got something for every mood this week. Whether you’re solo or with friends, these releases promise stories that stick with you long after the credits roll. Check ClickTheCity Movies Section for showtimes and snag your tickets today. Stay tuned for next week’s fresh releases and updates. Happy watching!

October 1, 2025
Buckle Up! Glen Powell Promises Non-stop Action in “The Running Man,” in Cinemas November 12

“We’re really breaking out the heavy artillery, the big explosions,” Glen Powell says in the new “Behind the Action” featurette for his upcoming movie, The Running Man, opening only in cinemas November 12. “Hopefully I’ll make the stunts look cool. This is going to be fun.”

Watch the “Behind the Action” Featurette Here:

The Story: A Game of Survival in a Society Obsessed with Spectacle

Directed by Edgar Wright (Baby Driver, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Shaun of the Dead), The Running Man is set in a near-future world where the highest-rated television show is a brutal contest called The Running Man. Contestants, known as Runners, must evade professional assassins for 30 days to win a growing cash prize. Every second of their lives is televised, with the bloodthirsty public tuning in for entertainment.

Glen Powell stars as Ben Richards, a working-class father who joins the deadly competition as a last resort to afford treatment for his sick daughter. But what starts as desperation becomes defiance. As Ben navigates explosive encounters and intense showdowns, his grit and instincts earn him an unexpected fan base. Now a threat to the very system that created the show, Ben must survive not just the Hunters—but a society obsessed with watching him fall.

Josh Brolin co-stars as the show’s cunning producer Dan Killian, joined by a stellar cast including Colman Domingo, William H. Macy, Lee Pace, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, Jayme Lawson, Sean Hayes, and Katy O’Brian.

Behind the Stunts and Training: Powell Pushes the Limits

The film’s action-packed momentum is matched only by Glen Powell’s physical preparation. As seen in the “Behind the Training” featurette, Powell endured intense stunt rehearsals and tactical conditioning to bring Ben Richards to life. Every chase, crash, and confrontation was designed with practical effects and real-world intensity.

Tom Cruise, Powell’s Top Gun: Maverick co-star, even offered advice during prep: “You don’t look as cool as you think,” Cruise warned about on-screen running—a tip Powell took to heart.

Director Edgar Wright’s adaptation stays closer to Stephen King’s original novel than the 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger version. The result is a darker, grittier film that blends fast-paced spectacle with a chilling social critique of media and mass entertainment.

See How Glen Powell Trained for the Role:

Production Notes and Cinematic Scale

Principal photography began in November 2024 in the United Kingdom, including high-profile location shoots such as Wembley Stadium. Filming wrapped in March 2025, with early footage screened at CinemaCon showcasing large-scale set pieces and relentless action.

Wright’s signature kinetic style is on full display—explosions, immersive chases, and tension-filled moments shot with precision. The production team brought together top-tier talent behind the scenes to ensure every sequence delivered both visually and emotionally.

Release Details and Full Credits

Only in cinemas beginning November 12, 2025.

Paramount Pictures presents
In association with Domain Entertainment
A Kinberg Genre / Complete Fiction Production
An Edgar Wright Film

“THE RUNNING MAN”

Executive Producers
George Linder, James Biddle, Rachael Prior, Audrey Chon, Pete Chiappetta, Anthony Tittanegro, Andrew Lary

Produced by
Simon Kinberg, p.g.a., Nira Park, p.g.a., Edgar Wright, p.g.a.

Based on the novel by
Stephen King

Screenplay by
Michael Bacall & Edgar Wright

Directed by
Edgar Wright

Starring
Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, Colman Domingo, William H. Macy, Lee Pace, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, Jayme Lawson, Sean Hayes, Katy O’Brian

For updates, follow #RunningManMovie and @paramountpicsph.

October 1, 2025
Tilly Birds Join Forces with Ben&Ben on New English Single “Heaven”

Thailand’s leading alternative pop-rock band Tilly Birds continue their journey into English-language music with their brand-new single “Heaven”, following the heartfelt release of Never A Waste Of Time.

This time, Tilly Birds team up with none other than Ben&Ben, the Philippines’ biggest folk-pop band, whose music has surpassed 2 billion Spotify streams and earned numerous awards across Asia. The collaboration brings together the fresh, playful pop sound of Tilly Birds with Ben&Ben’s signature heartfelt melodies—creating a track that is as vibrant as it is memorable.

The story behind “Heaven” began with a backstage friendship when both bands shared the same lineup at a concert in Malaysia. Inspired by that connection, the three members of Tilly Birds later flew to Manila to co-write the song with Ben&Ben. Recording sessions spanned across borders, with files exchanged between Bangkok and the Manila, until the track was fully brought to life.

The collaboration culminated in a music video shot in the Philippines, featuring all three members of Tilly Birds alongside Ben&Ben’s nine members. The experience was described by both bands as fun, warm, and filled with genuine friendship—a true testament to the spirit of “Heaven.”

Lyrically, the single captures the joy of meeting someone unexpectedly, at just the right time, and sharing a moment of happiness together—like finding a little piece of heaven on earth. In many ways, the collaboration between Tilly Birds and Ben&Ben itself is another definition of “Heaven.”

“Heaven” is now available worldwide on all streaming platform.

Follow Tilly Birds:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tillybirds/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tillybirds
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TILLYBIRDS/
X: https://x.com/TillyBirds

Follow Ben&Ben
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benandbenmusic/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benandbenmusic
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenAndBenMusic/
X: https://x.com/benandbenmusic

October 1, 2025