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New Movies This Week: Elio, 28 Years Later, Dangerous Animals, and Flower Girl

Need a midweek pick-me-up? The cinemas have got you covered. This week’s new movie lineup is all kinds of unexpected in the best way possible. We’re talking space misadventures, post-apocalyptic thrills, a survival horror at sea, and a cheeky curse with a whole lot of heart. There’s Pixar’s cosmic adventure Elio, the chilling return of the rage virus in 28 Years Later, the survival horror Dangerous Animals, and the bold fantasy comedy Flower Girl. Whether you’re in the mood for aliens, apocalyptic tension, shark-infested waters, or a modern-day curse with heart, this week’s lineup brings something exciting for every kind of movie fan.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the four new films you can catch this week:

Elio

2025 • PG • 1 hr 37 mins
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY, SCIENCE FICTION
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Disney and Pixar are back with another intergalactic heartwarmer. Meet Elio, a quirky kid with a head full of space fantasies who suddenly finds himself accidentally teleported to a council of aliens convinced he’s Earth’s ambassador.

Awkward? Very. But also hilarious, visually stunning, and surprisingly sweet. With a voice cast that includes Zoe Saldaña and an adventure that spans lightyears, Elio delivers family-friendly laughs and cosmic lessons about identity, courage, and finding your place in the universe.

28 Years Later

2025 • R-18 • 1 hr 54 mins
HORROR, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
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If you’re still recovering from 28 Days Later and 28 Weeks Later, brace yourself, it’s back.

28 Years Later drops us deep into a new nightmare where the rage virus still haunts what’s left of humanity. A quarantined island offers a fragile kind of peace… until one survivor crosses the causeway back to the mainland, where evolution has taken a horrifying turn. Jodie Comer leads this haunting third chapter in the virus saga, and it’s every bit as chilling, chaotic, and pulse-pounding as fans would expect. Horror fans, prepare for an edge-of-your-seat experience.

Dangerous Animals

2025 • R-16 • 1 hr 38 mins
HORROR, THRILLER
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Think you’ve seen every survival thriller out there? Think again.

In Dangerous Animals, a carefree surfer is kidnapped by a shark-worshipping serial killer and trapped on a boat in the middle of nowhere. Her only way out? Outsmarting her captor before she becomes bait for his twisted feeding ritual. It’s part ocean terror, part psychological cat-and-mouse, and all heart-racing suspense. If you’re craving tension and high-stakes survival, this horror-thriller brings the bite.

Flower Girl

2025 • R-16 • 1 hr 14 mins
COMEDY, FANTASY
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Flower Girl tells the bizarre, magical, and surprisingly tender story of Ena, a self-centered woman who insults the wrong person and ends up cursed in a way she never imagined. Her only shot at breaking it? Finding someone who loves her for who she is… not what she has.

With cheeky humor, vibrant visuals, and standout performances from Sue Ramirez and KaladKaren, Flower Girl is the bold, fantasy-tinged comedy that mixes laughter with a little bit of soul-searching. And yes, you’ll want to talk about it afterwards.

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:

How to Train Your Dragon

2025 • PG • 2 hrs 7 mins
ACTION, FAMILY, FANTASY
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Ever wondered what it’s like to befriend a dragon? Buckle up for the live-action reboot of a modern animated classic. How to Train Your Dragon whisks you to the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons are sworn enemies. Enter Hiccup (Mason Thames), a young misfit who flips tradition on its head by bonding with Toothless, a sleek Night Fury. This action-packed family fantasy, spiked with humor and heart, stars Nico Parker and Gerard Butler, delivering a tale of courage and connection. It’s one for the whole family, with a few upgrades fans of the original will appreciate. Perfect for kids and adults alike, it’s a visual feast that’ll leave you soaring. Will Hiccup and Toothless rewrite history?

Only We Know

2025 • PG • 1 hr 41 mins
DRAMA, ROMANCE
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What does love look like later in life? Only We Know follows Betty (Charo Santos), a retired English teacher, and Ryan (Dingdong Dantes), a grieving engineer, as they form an unexpected friendship. This tender drama, laced with romance, explores loneliness, healing, and second chances, with Al Tantay adding depth to the cast. It’s a soulful pick for anyone who believes connection can bloom in unlikely places. Will their bond become something more?

Ballerina

2025 • R-16 • 2 hrs 4 mins
ACTION, CRIME, THRILLER
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Karate Kid: Legends

2025 • G • 1 hr 35 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, DRAMA, FAMILY
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Lilo & Stitch

2025 • G • 1 hr 48 mins
COMEDY, FAMILY
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Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

2025 • PG • 2 hrs 49 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, THRILLER
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Final Destination Bloodlines

2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 49 mins
HORROR, MYSTERY
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This week’s lineup is a vibrant cocktail of adventure, scares, and giggles, ready to match any vibe. Whether you’re itching for animated adventures or edge-of-your-seat thrills, this week’s new movie picks offers something worth escaping to. Planning a family movie night? Make Elio your pick. Need a thriller that bites? Dangerous Animals and 28 Years Later have chills in spades. In the mood for something fresh and thought-provoking? Flower Girlbrings the magic. Don’t miss upcoming releases like M3GAN 2.0 (June 27), a sci-fi horror sequel; and F1 (June 27), a Brad Pitt-led racing thriller. Stay tuned for next week’s fresh batch of releases and updates. Keep ClickTheCity bookmarked for the latest schedules, your next movie is a click away!

June 18, 2025
“The Naked Gun” Returns with Liam Neeson and a Freshly Unleashed Trailer and Poster

Liam Neeson is stepping out of his usual action-packed roles—and into a pair of very large comedic shoes—as he takes the lead in the upcoming reboot of The Naked Gun. Hitting Philippine cinemas on August 13, the new film brings back the beloved slapstick style of the original, this time with Neeson playing Lt. Frank Drebin Jr., the son of the iconic detective made famous by Leslie Nielsen.

Fans finally got a sneak peek with the release of the film’s official trailer and poster, giving us a hilarious glimpse into the chaos that awaits.

Watch the New Trailer Now:

A Comedy Classic Returns

Directed by Akiva Schaffer (Saturday Night Live, Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping) and produced by Seth MacFarlane (Ted, Family Guy), The Naked Gun brings back the kind of wild, over-the-top parody that made the original a cult classic. But this time, there’s a new Drebin in town—and he’s got his own “particular set of skills.”

Star-Studded and Silly

The film also features a fun and eclectic supporting cast that includes Pamela Anderson, Paul Walter Hauser, CCH Pounder, Kevin Durand, WWE superstar Cody Rhodes, Liza Koshy, Eddie Yu, and Danny Huston. Whether they’re part of the police force or the criminal chaos, expect big laughs and bigger stunts.

From Action Icon to Comedy King?

Best known for intense roles in films like Taken and The Grey, Neeson has been showing off his comedic timing in recent years with appearances in projects like A Million Ways to Die in the West and Life’s Too Short. Now, as Lt. Frank Drebin Jr., he’s fully embracing the absurdity, bringing a fresh (and funny) take to the bumbling detective character that made The Naked Gun a hit in the ‘80s and ‘90s.

Will he live up to his father’s name? Or at least survive the explosions, pratfalls, and punchlines? One thing’s for sure—it’s going to be ridiculous fun.

Don’t Miss the Fun on the Big Screen

The Naked Gun makes its way to cinemas across the Philippines starting August 13, and judging from the trailer, it’s going to be one hilariously bumpy ride. Follow the conversation online using #NakedGun and tag @paramountpicsph to share your reactions and favorite moments.

Get ready for crime-fighting gone wrong—very wrong. Because when the Drebins are on the case, nothing is safe… not even the punchlines.

June 17, 2025
Un Monde: A World of Music, A Month of Celebration

Fête de la Musique Philippines joins the global celebration of music this June, with the theme “Un Monde” or One World, emphasizing music’s incredible power to unite diverse cultures and bridge the Philippines to the world.

For over three decades, Fête de la Musique Philippines, presented by Alliance Française de Manille alongside its partners, has been a cornerstone of the Philippine music calendar, offering free live music performances across various stages and genres. The “UN MONDE” theme for 2025 highlights the festival’s commitment to fostering international camaraderie and understanding through music.

FêtePH2025 presents a month-long celebration of music with over 150 events scheduled throughout the month of June.

The highly anticipated FêtePH2025 Main Stage will once again be the central highlight, taking place on June 21, at Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati City.

This year’s Main Stage presents a mix of established headliners and exciting new talents, including Ely Buendia and The Methodists, Armi Millare, Brigada, Janine, Brass Pas Pas Pas Pas feat. Leanne & Naara, James Reid, The Ridleys, and Tarsius x Ena Mori. It will also feature off-stage performances by Filipino musicians Frank Ely and Zsaris, Bolivian Pop artist Bling Bling Papaya, and Singapore-based Pinoy queer artist Marian Carmel.

Further solidifying the “Un Monde” theme, FêtePH2025 is proud to welcome international musicians Ito Kashitaro from Japan and Emile Londonien from France, both set to perform at the FetePH2025 Main Stage.

Beyond the Main Stage, Fête de la Musique Philippines will feature a series of satellite events this month, ensuring that the celebration of music reaches every corner of the metro and beyond.

Harnessing the healing power of music, FetePH2025 brings back its advocacy “Music Heals” with a sound healing festival led by Aruga Collective on June 11. Throughout the afternoon, “Music Heals” will host vendors, facilitators, and a series of workshops designed to educate and engage participants about the power of sound healing, incense appreciation, and cacao ceremony, and an eclectic variety of holistic healing modalities.

Another exciting FetePH2025 event that Fete-goers can look forward to is the Ember Stage at Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City on June 13. This stage features an intimate yet captivating musical experience with a vibrant showcase of young energy and Gen Z magic.

The musical celebrations continue well beyond the main events. Following the FêtePH25 Main Stage, the fete-stivitieswill spread across Makati City with numerous Pocket Stages on June 27 as part of the Barangay Poblacion fiesta. As in previous years, the pocket stages will offer a more localized and intimate musical experience in various venues with all kinds of music genres. There will also be Pocket Stages outside Metro Manila on June 28.

The grand musical journey doesn’t stop there. FetePH2025 brings the spirit of “Un Monde” to communities nationwide on June 28 with 29 Destination Stages and 90 events all over the country. Spanning from Northern Luzon, across the Visayas, to Southern Mindanao, this truly makes Fête de la Musique a country-wide celebration.

Complementing these musical experiences, FetePH2025 partnered with SONIK Philippines to present Sonik Soiree, which will highlight the journey of Filipino talent expanding into global markets, the impact of music technology, and the growing role of the creative economy in shaping the future of music.

To lead the Sonik Soiree, FetePH2025 invited music marketing and business resource speakers, including Product Marketing, Business Development, and Brand Strategy lead at PLAYZER Francois Planquette, Live Promotions Bkk Managing Director Polo Ruesz, and CEO and Co-Founder of CtrI+Reach (by Y2M) Clémentin Diard.

“We are incredibly excited to bring ‘UN MONDE’ to life for our 31st Fête de la Musique celebration,” says Xavier Leroux, Executive Director of Alliance Francaise de Manille. “Music has an unparalleled ability to transcend borders and connect people. This year, we aim to showcase how Filipino music resonates globally, truly making us all ‘One World’ through melody and rhythm.”

Fête de la Musique Philippines is a free and open-to-all event, inviting music lovers of all ages to partake in this grand celebration. Full artist lineups for all stages and a complete schedule of events will be announced in the coming weeks.

Stay tuned to Fete de la Musique Philippines’ official social media channels and register on www.fete. ph for updates and information on all things FetePH 2025.

FetePH2025 is presented by Alliance Francaise de Manille in partnership with the Embassy of France to the Philippines, Funkybeat Entertainment, and Anam Kara. The event is also brought to you by Tanduay and Shangri-La Plaza, Ayala Land, Institut Français, French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Raffles and Fairmont Makati-Official Hotel Partner, TV5 Monde-Official International Media Partner, Billboard Philippines-Official Music Media Partner, Japan Foundation, City of Makati, Barangay Poblacion Makati, Havaianas, Homonym, Alliance Française de Cebu .

June 17, 2025
Ely Buendia and Armi Millare Lead Star-Studded Lineup at FêtePH2025 Main Stage in Makati
Get ready for one of the most exciting nights in Philippine music! Fête de la Musique Philippines 2025 is pulling out all the stops for its Main Stage event on June 21 at Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City and the latest artist announcement is turning up the hype.

Two of OPM’s most influential and beloved artists are joining the already stacked lineup: Ely Buendia and The Methodists, and Armi Millare.

Rock Royalty Returns

Ely Buendia, the legendary frontman of Eraserheads, will hit the stage with The Methodists, bringing the heat from his critically acclaimed 2024 solo album, Method Adaptor. A sonic exploration of rebellion, self-discovery, and truth, the album marked a bold new chapter in Buendia’s career and his Main Stage set promises to be just as electrifying. Expect a mix of gritty rock energy, experimental flourishes, and fan-favorite anthems from one of the Philippines’ most prolific music icons.

A Soulful Serenade

Joining Ely onstage is none other than Armi Millare, whose haunting vocals and emotionally rich songwriting have long set her apart. The former UDD frontwoman is poised to enchant audiences with a special set featuring her hits and new material from her upcoming solo album, South Node. Fans can look forward to live versions of her current singles, Whatever, Say It Again, and Roots, all brimming with her signature blend of indie-pop soul and ethereal charm.

More Acts to Watch

The Main Stage lineup is already buzzing with talent from rising stars to global names. Look out for sets by:
- Brigada
- Janine
- Brass Pas Pas Pas Pas feat. Leanne and Naara
- James Reid
- The Ridleys
- Tarsius x Ena Mori
- Ito Kashitaro (Japan)
- Emile Londonien (France
And don’t miss offstage performances by TFrank Ely and Zsaris, Bolivian pop artist Bling Bling Papaya, and Singapore-based Filipino queer artist Marian Carmel.

Free and Open to All

Celebrating its 31st year, Fête de la Musique Philippines remains one of the country’s biggest and most inclusive music festivals and the Main Stage is completely free to attend. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for an unforgettable night out, this is your chance to experience the magic of live music in the heart of the city.

FêtePH2025 is presented by Alliance Française de Manille in partnership with the Embassy of France to the Philippines, Funkybeat Entertainment, Anam Kara, and supported by Tanduay, Shangri-La Plaza, Ayala Land, Institut Français, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and many others.

Stay updated through www.feteph.com or follow Fête de la Musique Philippines on social media.
June 17, 2025
Prime Video Drops Trailer for the Final Season of “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” Streaming This July 16

Get ready to return to Cousins Beach one last time. Prime Video has just released the official trailer for the third and final season of The Summer I Turned Pretty, the hit coming-of-age series adapted from Jenny Han’s best-selling novels. The 11-episode season premieres on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, and will be available to stream in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

As expected, the trailer is already sparking buzz among fans—thanks in part to the emotional backdrop of “Daylight” from Lover and “Red (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift. Both songs capture the series’ trademark mix of romance, heartbreak, and nostalgia that fans have come to love.

A Global Phenomenon Comes to a Close

Since its debut in 2022, The Summer I Turned Pretty has blossomed into one of Prime Video’s biggest success stories. The first season premiered to huge numbers, instantly claiming the #1 spot on Prime Video during its opening weekend. Season Two followed in 2023 and doubled the viewership of the first season within just three days of release.

The series is known for its emotionally rich storytelling and relatable characters. At its core is the story of Belly, a young woman caught between two brothers—her first love Conrad, and her now-boyfriend Jeremiah. But it’s not just about romance. The show also explores the deep, complicated relationships between mothers and daughters, as well as the unshakeable bond of female friendship.

What to Expect in Season 3

The final chapter picks up after Belly’s junior year of college. She’s gearing up for another summer in Cousins Beach, this time with Jeremiah—her soulmate and partner in all things sunny and sweet. But just as she starts to settle into her future, Conrad reappears, stirring up feelings she thought she had left behind.

Now standing on the threshold of adulthood, Belly must confront her past and make a life-changing choice: Who truly holds her heart?

A Story About Love, Family, and Growing Up

More than just a romantic drama, The Summer I Turned Pretty is a multigenerational series that reflects on the bittersweet transition from youth to adulthood. It delves into the power of love—both romantic and familial—and the moments that shape us forever.

Season Three is led by showrunners Jenny Han and Sarah Kucserka, with both also serving as executive producers alongside Karen Rosenfelt, Paul Lee, Hope Hartman, and Mads Hansen of wiip. The series is produced by Amazon Studios in partnership with wiip.

Stream It This July

Whether you’ve been Team Conrad, Team Jeremiah, or just Team Belly, this final season promises to wrap up the story with all the emotional weight, gorgeous sunsets, and Taylor Swift needle-drops you could hope for.

The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 premieres July 16, 2025—exclusively on Prime Video.

June 17, 2025
Jeff Cifra Celebrates Romance with Feel-Good Single ‘Ang Aking True Love’

Award-winning singer-songwriter and OPM’s Falsetto Prince Jeff Cifra is back with a joyful new anthem. His latest single, “Ang Aking True Love,” dropped on May 9 across all major digital streaming platforms, bringing with it a fresh yet nostalgic vibe that fans will love. Best known for his expressive falsetto and smooth vocal runs, Cifra delivers a standout performance on the track, channeling a bright and buoyant energy that perfectly captures the thrill of discovering true love. It’s a refreshing follow-up to his emotional ballad “Dalawang Araw, Dalawang Buwan,” this time offering something more playful and festive.

A Joyful Ode to Love

“Ang Aking True Love” isn’t just a new single, it is a collaboration rooted in creativity and history. Co-written by Jeff Cifra, Dennis Sebastian (a former film producer), John Michael Acol, Joshua Carbajal, and Jhune Osuna, the song was originally part of the 2014 romantic film LABYU, directed by Jill Urdaneta.

Though nearly a decade has passed since it first featured in the movie, Cifra and his team have breathed new life into the track, giving it a fresh arrangement and a wider audience reach. “Ang Aking True Love” was produced by Cifra and Osuna under JNJ Studios, and officially released through Cali Sound Laboratory.

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A post shared by Jeff Cifra (@thejeffcifra)

Inspired by Filipino Traditions

What makes the track even more special is the musical inspiration behind it. The arrangement pays tribute to the historic marching bands of Bacoor, Cavite, an iconic symbol of Filipino community life. These bands are a staple in town fiestas and festivals, rallying people together in celebration.

By weaving these cultural elements into the song’s composition, Cifra adds a distinctly Pinoy touch that resonates with listeners who grew up attending local town parades and fiestas. The result? A feel-good, proudly Filipino love song that hits the heart.

True Love, Streaming Everywhere

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Cifra’s falsetto-led tracks or just discovering his music, “Ang Aking True Love” is worth adding to your playlist. It’s now available for streaming and download on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music. So go ahead, turn up the volume, feel the rhythm, and maybe even find your own “true love” along the way.

June 17, 2025
Theater Review: What the World Could Be Like: A Review of ‘Come From Away’

Despite its massive success on both Broadway and the West End, I never really took notice of ‘Come From Away’ before. As an old-school musical fan, I’m always cautious and wary of new musicals because I fear I won’t like them. But every new musical I’ve seen has proved me wrong, from ‘Waitress’ to ‘Hamilton’ to ‘Six’. There’s a special kind of joy in stepping into a theater to watch a musical you know nothing about. The whole experience feels amplified, and the emotions hit even harder.

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Coming into the Samsung Performing Arts Theater on the show’s opening night, I saw the floors leading up to the theater filled with background information about the play and realized that ‘Come From Away’ is a play about September 11. I felt a little fear. My anti-West mindset started to get the better of me and I thought this was going to be another story about American resiliency or something equally overplayed. I stopped reading the boards, got to my seat, and psyched myself up for the show, which I knew had a great cast at the very least.

I was immediately taken in from the opening number. ‘Come From Away’ is a 9/11 story, but it tells the story of a Newfoundland town called Gander. It had the largest international airport back when planes didn’t have enough fuel to cross the Atlantic. Airplanes would land there to refuel before continuing their journey, but by the 2000s, it was practically empty. Planes just flew over it. But not on that day. Thirty-eight planes were redirected to land in Gander, bringing over 7,000 passengers to a town with a population of just 9,000. The musical is a retelling of these events, based on interviews with both the passengers and the townsfolk, and it captures the six days when 7,000 people were treated with kindness and generosity in a world that had just been shaken to its core by the horrific events of that day.

The cast of 14 all play dual roles. By putting on a jacket, a hat, or an apron, they shift characters from one of the townsfolk to a passenger, changing accents and internalizing either the stress of being hospitable while the town and its neighbors struggle with limited resources due to the sudden arrival of 7,000 people, or the mindset of someone who suddenly cannot return home, finding themselves in a strange place, surrounded by strangers, with no idea what is going on.

Some characters really stand out on stage, like Carla Guevarra Laforteza’s Hannah, one of the passengers whose son is a first responder in New York, and Garrett Bolden’s Bob, a Black passenger who finds himself suspicious of Newfoundland’s lack of racism. For the first time, he is being treated like everybody else, and this confounds him. Topper Fabregas does an exemplary job playing Kevin, a gay man who is struggling to adjust to his new surroundings, as well as Ali, a Middle Eastern man who everyone is afraid of. As Kevin, Fabregas gets the most laughs, but as Ali, he earns the most sympathy.

Directed by Michael Williams, the cast keeps the stage alive and busy, shifting between characters as they change costumes and weave in and out of the story. We see couples fall apart, others fall in love, a pilot reflect on how the catastrophe has changed everything about the airline industry, two women bond over their shared love for their sons who happen to have the same job, a woman go above and beyond by even thinking of the animals, and so much more.

There is so much happening, but what resonates throughout the show is the depth of humanity in this moment. The way the people of Gander and the neighboring towns come together, setting aside their differences to ensure that their guests feel welcome and cared for, is powerful. It is one of the most human experiences I have ever witnessed while watching a play. The songs, written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, can be bold, fun, and energetic, but they also know when to turn quiet and introspective. In one song, several characters ask to pray. Since the guests come from different faiths, they sing all their prayers in a musical blend that reveals a beautiful truth: all prayers share the same essence, and we are as alike as we are different.

The choreography by Delphine Buencamino is vibrant and dynamic, and Kayla Teodoro’s stage design is intriguing, keeping the focus on center stage where the actors make everything come to life. It is such a powerful piece that, for its approximately 90+ minute runtime (with no intermission), you are completely immersed in that world. By the end of the show, I was holding back my tears.

It is incredible how a theatrical performance can make me wish the world were more like this. As the crowds exited after the curtain call, people were talking about how closely this resembles Filipino hospitality. The world is currently a mess, and a show like this, based on actual events and interviews with the people who lived through it, reminds us that it really does not take much to be kind, generous, and grateful for one another. I am so glad I caught this show.

My Rating:

Experience this unforgettable story live on stage. Catch Come From Away before it takes its final bow! The show is now playing at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater until June 29. Book your tickets now on TicketWorld!

June 14, 2025
Movie Review: Fighting Like a Girl: A Review of ‘Ballerina’

While the first ‘John Wick’ was definitely a surprise, it was a revenge film with great action sequences that elevated the genre while still managing to show a lot of heart. Its sequels only upped the ante with even more fantastic action sequence and expanding an unbelievable world filled with assassins. By the second film, it had already embraced a sense of camp. Seriously, how many assassins can there be? But it never took itself too seriously, fully aware that what it offered was action that pushed the boundaries of what could be done within the genre.

‘Ballerina’ offers more of the same. The story is quite familiar. It’s a revenge tale set in the world of John Wick, promising a lot of hard-hitting action sequences with Ana de Armas front and center as the titular character. The film begins with our main character, Eve (played as a child by Victoria Comte), in hiding with her father (David Castañeda), but they are soon discovered. A major fight breaks out, and Eve learns she is being targeted by a man known as The Chancellor (Gabriel Byrne). Her parents were once part of a cult, and her father tried to take her away in hopes of giving her a normal life. However, no one leaves the cult. The Chancellor wants her back, but Eve’s father fights to keep her safe. He succeeds, but dies in the process.

Ana de Armas as Eve in Ballerina. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate

Taken in by Winston (Ian McShane), she is brought to the Ruska Roma, her father’s “family,” and Eve decides to become one of their assassins and bodyguards. She trains and thrives, but during one assignment, she is attacked by another assassin and notices a tattoo on him that resembles those worn by The Chancellor’s men. When she confronts the head of the Ruska Roma (Anjelica Huston), she is told to stand down, as there is an uneasy truce between their faction and the cult. Naturally, Eve goes rogue to hunt them down and take her revenge.

Ian McShane as Winston and Ana de Armas as Eve in Ballerina. Photo Credit: Larry D. Horricks for Lionsgate

Under the direction of Len Wiseman (of the ‘Underworld’ franchise and ‘Live Free and Die Hard’) and screenwriter Shay Hatten, ‘Ballerina’ doesn’t linger on the emotional aspects, relying instead on clichéd moments. It never truly explores Eve’s relationship with her father or the depth of their connection. These elements are taken for granted. The film also avoids examining the emotional conflict Eve might feel as she becomes a killer. This is not that kind of film. What it does show is the toughness Eve adopts as her past shapes her present: she’s cold-hearted killer who is quick on her feet and can take a punch.

Anjelica Huston as The Director in Ballerina. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate

Len Wiseman is very good with action. He allows us to see the brutality of each fight and frames the scenes so that we get the full range of motion with every punch and kick. It’s bloody, gory, and ruthless. With three other ‘John Wick’ films already released, Wiseman needs to find a way to keep things fresh and surprising, because at some point, it feels like we’ve seen it all. In this story, Ana de Armas’ Eve is not as seasoned as John Wick. She’s only months out of training, so she still makes mistakes. She gets beaten and takes hits, but the training montage early in the film shows us why she can recover so quickly. Sure, there are blows that no one should be able to get up from, but this is a ‘John Wick’ movie. Of course they get back up.

Ana de Armas as Eve in Ballerina. Photo Credit: Larry D. Horricks

There is an attempt to frame the movie with a feminist lens. In a training sequence, Eve’s mentor Nogi (Sharon Duncan-Brewster) tells her that she always loses because a man will always have the physical advantage. She advises her to do whatever it takes to win: improvise, cheat, set the terms of the engagement, and never fight on their terms. She tells her to “fight like a girl.” And then, Eve starts to win. What’s funny is that, aside from this one bit of dialogue, we don’t actually see her do anything noticeably different from what she was doing before. Yes, she improvises, but so did John Wick. They even bring in Amy Lee of Evanescence to perform a song called Fight Like a Girl for the closing credits. It’s all fair and fine, but it doesn’t quite deliver the feminist perspective the film seemed to be aiming for.

Norman Reedus as Daniel Pina in Ballerina. Photo Credit: Larry D. Horricks for Lionsgate

What the film does show, however, is how hard Ana de Armas worked to make everything look fun, believable, and thrilling. She moves like a champ, and with the choreography, sound design, and strong performances, she really takes a beating. Yet she gets back up again and keeps going. That, in itself, feels more feminist than any contrived appeal meant to speak directly to the women in the audience.

The plot is pretty by-the-books and rather thin, but we’re not here to watch a film with a serious story. We’re here for the action, and the film delivers on that, hands down. There’s even an extended fight sequence with a flamethrower that turned out to be one of the most cinematic moments I’ve seen in an action film. It genuinely surprised me. I wasn’t expecting to enjoy it, but I had a lot of fun. And I was nervous about Keanu Reeves returning as John Wick, but the way it was written didn’t take anything away from Ana de Armas. Instead, it helped show that Eve is not yet on John Wick’s level, but she could be. And since the film ends with an ellipsis, we know a sequel is likely if this one makes money. I’m all in for it.

My Rating:

Ballerina is now showing, serving up killer moves and nonstop action in the world of John Wick. Catch all the thrills on the big screen. Check showtimes and book your tickets here.

June 13, 2025
Movie Review: Another Kind of Love Story: A Review of ‘Only We Know’

I think anyone who has been following my reviews knows that I’m a big fan of Irene Emma Villamor. Other than that, one movie, I’ve always enjoyed her approach to love stories. She likes to really dig deep and explore the way broken people seem to gravitate to each other; trying to figure out if this relationship would be the one to fix them and as the movie progresses, they discover through each other that there’s still a lot of self-reflection they must do before they can find happiness. Her works always have a measure of violence in them: whether it be emotional (‘Sid & Aya: Not a Love Story’ and ‘On Vodka, Beers, and Regrets’) or the actual threat of danger (‘You and Me and the End of the World’). So, it was my pleasant surprise to find that ‘Only We Know’ to be Direk Irene’s most tender work yet. Out of all her movies – including ‘Ulan’ – this has the warmest heart.

Set in Tagaytay, Betty (Charo Santos) and Ryan (Dingdong Dantes) are neighbours. In the many years that they’ve lived beside each other; they have barely interacted. But as the film begins, Betty retires from her teaching position and is now spending a lot of time at home, tending her garden and painting. Ryan, on the other hand, is still grieving the passing of his wife (Max Collins), and has become reclusive, drinking all the time, and only leaving for work or to buy more spirits. Their first encounter is awkward, but Betty is a nurturing, caring person and she takes it upon herself to invite Ryan to dinner at her place. In each other they find a kindred soul. There’s an emptiness that the other manages to fill and a friendship begins to blossom; one that potentially can lead into something more.

And this is what is so endearing about Villamor’s film. She takes her time to show us Betty and Ryan’s world. The lives that they lead and how the other fills the gaps that their personal stories have put upon them. The film is not concerned about plot. It takes on a slice-of-life narrative, showing us how one’s grief can break someone and how another can ease the longing. While retirement can bring up issues of loneliness and how the other can bring surprises at every turn.

There are cliche elements that are presented – Betty’s best friend Cora (Shamaine Buencamino) wants to set her up, Betty’s ex-husband makes an appearance, the unprocessed grief of Ryan will take its toll, and there’s a medical discovery that tends to follow these sort of storylines – but Villamor skirts around them and never uses them for unnecessary drama or lets it linger.

Her focus is on the complex layers of Betty and Ryan’s friendship and withholds key scenes to make us wonder the true depths of each other’s feelings for the other. By doing so, Villamor turns the audience into the nosy Maritess asking for answers to questions they really have no business to ask. We are made to see the symptoms of their relationship but are never really invited in. It makes the title so much more powerful because what is between them is something only, they know.

By using the film language of the romantic-comedy, Direk Irene leads us to everyday, ordinary expectations from a pairing such as this but then she side-steps to present to us the power and importance of friendship. The expectation of romance is our down doing, reducing their need for companionship to something so basic and banal. Once you’re able to let that go, what you will start to see is how love can be a lot more dynamic than what movies usually present to us.

Other than Villamor’s direction, what else drives this movie forward is the incredible skill of Charo Santos and Dingdong Dantes to make this feel all so real. They completely imbibe their characters that every move, every expression, every line delivery feels so natural and organic. Their chemistry even evolves throughout the film. Their awkward first encounter in the film and first few interactions are just that: awkward, unbalanced, odd. But as they keep meeting, talking, helping each other out, they start to connect, and their chemistry begins to grow. It’s a wonderful thing to see in a movie of this nature where usually the chemistry must be there at the onset. Here, we see it bloom. It’s really a testament to the Santos and Dantes and their commitment to the characters and to the story.

With the absence of dramatic cliches, ‘Only We Know’ is a refreshing story about love and friendship that people don’t quickly understand. It’s wonderfully acted, and it carries with it a beautiful warm heart that’s just perfect for this rainy June.

My Rating:

Catch Only We Know in cinemas now. Don’t miss this touching story. Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.

June 11, 2025
Ralph Fiennes Joins the Rage-Fueled World as Dr. Ian Kelson in “28 Years Later,” Opening June 18

Ralph Fiennes is no stranger to commanding roles, but in 28 Years Later, the Oscar-nominated actor brings something hauntingly spiritual to the table. Opening in Philippine cinemas this June 18, this long-awaited follow-up to the post-apocalyptic 28 Days Later saga reintroduces a virus-ravaged world—and Fiennes is right at the heart of it.

“Above All, He’s a Survivor”

Speaking about his new character, Fiennes says Dr. Ian Kelson is “above all, a survivor.” In the film, Kelson clings to a unique mantra—memento mori, or “remember death”—as a way of facing a brutal new reality. “He’s accepted the fact of death – that it’s so present,” Fiennes says. “Rather than run away from it, pretend death doesn’t exist, or live in fear of it, Kelson is honoring death and the dead. In a way, he’s a rather clergy-like figure and a humanist.”

It’s a perspective that’s both eerie and deeply human, perfectly in line with the franchise’s themes of survival, morality, and the thin line between hope and despair.

A Changed World 28 Years Later

Set nearly three decades after the original outbreak, 28 Years Later picks up in a UK left devastated by the rage virus. Most of the country has been laid to waste, but a group of survivors manages to carve out a fragile sanctuary on an isolated island. Their only protection? A causeway that floods for most of the day, keeping the infected at bay—but only just.

It’s in this desperate landscape that Dr. Kelson emerges—a mysterious figure whose appearance is as unforgettable as his ideology.

Watch the Trailer Here:

The Striking Look of a Survivor

To fully inhabit Kelson, Fiennes worked hand-in-hand with production designer Carson McColl and costume designer Gareth Pugh to create a visually impactful first impression. “We had wonderful conversations about Kelson and his world and clothes,” Fiennes recounts. “One of Kelson’s defining traits is that he covers himself in iodine, which is a prophylactic against the rage virus. So, Kelson is covered in reddish-orange iodine, and then we made the decision to have his head shaven, which we thought was a strong look.”

The transformation didn’t stop there. Makeup supervisor Flora Moody helped bring the gritty reality of Kelson’s world to life. “Flora considered what do people look like if they no longer have access to shampoo and makeup,” Fiennes continues. “We all wanted the iodine-shielded figure to look arresting and startling,” Fiennes continues.

And it works—Dr. Kelson is as visually unforgettable as he is philosophically intriguing.

Don’t Miss the Return of the Rage Virus

Directed by Danny Boyle and featuring a cast that includes new and familiar faces – Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, Alfie Williams and Jack O’Connell,. 28 Years Later promises intense thrills, emotional depth, and a chilling look at what it means to survive. Fans of the original film and newcomers alike won’t want to miss this terrifying new chapter.

Catch 28 Years Later in Philippine cinemas starting June 18, distributed by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

Join the conversation using #28YearsLater and tag @columbiapicph to share your thoughts and reactions.

June 11, 2025