For 25 years, one horror franchise has kept audiences at the edge of their seats—and now, it all comes full circle. New Line Cinema’s “Final Destination: Bloodlines” unleashes its chilling power exclusively in cinemas on May 14, with sneak previews happening on May 9 and 10. No streaming. No cuts. Just pure, unfiltered terror.
The Nightmare Begins
In this spine-tingling new chapter, Stefanie (played by Kaitlyn Santa Juana), a college student tormented by violent nightmares, returns home in a desperate attempt to change her fate—and that of her family. But in the world of Final Destination, Death always has a plan.
This is the sixth film in the wildly successful “Final Destination” series, produced by franchise veterans Craig Perry and Sheila Hanahan Taylor, along with Jon Watts, Dianne McGunigle, and Toby Emmerich. The bloodline runs deep—this isn’t just another sequel. It’s a resurrection.
Behind the lens, cinematographer Christian Sebaldt and production designer Rachel O’Toole bring the gore to glorious life. Music by Tim Wynn and costumes by Michelle Hunter complete the eerie ensemble.
Only in Cinemas: No Escaping This Date
Catch it first during sneak previews on May 9 and 10, five days before the national rollout. Then, it hits Philippine theaters in full force on May 14, 2025, and internationally on May 16. Buy your tickets here.
This Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025, skip the usual and treat the queen of your heart to a flavorful feast at the newly opened LongHorn Steakhouse Philippines at Edsa Shangri-La Streetscape Level 1. Whether she’s a ribeye enthusiast or a salmon lover, LongHorn’s got the sizzle to make her smile—with juicy, expertly grilled steaks, free tote bags for moms dining in (while supplies last), and a sweet surprise from Randy’s Donuts Philippines: free MOM Donut Boxes for the first 50 tables. Give Mom a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable bites. Ready to make her day unforgettable?
A Mother’s Day Sizzler at LongHorn Steakhouse
LongHorn doesn’t mess around when it comes to steak. Their mantra? You Can’t Fake Steak. Each cut is hand-picked for quality, kissed with proprietary seasonings, and grilled to perfection by masters who live for the sizzle. Craving a standout? The Outlaw Ribeye®, bone-in and bursting with marbled goodness, is a carnivore’s dream. Or go for Flo’s Filet®, a tender, center-cut masterpiece. The New York Strip brings classic vibes, while the Fire-Grilled T-Bone blends bold and buttery in every bite. Which will Mom love most?
Beyond the Grill: A Menu for Every Mood
Steak’s the star, but LongHorn’s menu is a full-on feast. Dig into fall-off-the-bone Baby Back Ribs, savor the Parmesan Crusted Chicken, or go light with Bourbon-Marinated Grilled Salmon. Kids and picky eaters? The Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders have them covered. Fresh salads, shareable apps like crispy onion petals, and sides like loaded baked potatoes keep things vibrant. And don’t skip dessert—the Chocolate Stampede, a decadent chocolatey delight, is practically a love letter to Mom. What’s not to adore?
Mother’s Day Freebies to Make Her Smile
LongHorn’s pulling out all the stops for moms this May 11. Every mom dining in scores a stylish free tote bag—perfect for her daily adventures (while supplies last, so get there early!). Plus, the first 50 tables dining with their moms snag a free MOM Donut Box from Randy’s Donuts Philippines, packed with sweet, festive treats. It’s a delicious way to say, “You’re the best.” Pro tip: Book your table now to secure your spot at this hot new haunt.
LongHorn Steakhouse isn’t just another restaurant—it’s a game-changer. Opened in April 2025 at Edsa Shangri-La Streetscape Level 1, this is the first LongHorn location in the Philippines, brought to life by The Bistro Group. With over 225 stores nationwide and a knack for curating top-tier dining experiences, The Bistro Group knew LongHorn’s uncompromising quality would resonate with Filipino foodies. “Their unrelenting passion and uncompromising standards when it comes to high-quality steaks and dishes resonates with Bistro’s unparalleled dedication to offering the best to our customers. While some take shortcuts and cut corners, at LongHorn, they do things the right way because that is what great steak deserves and, more important, it’s their guests deserve. Together, we can create an impact on the local market which, we believe, is ripe for LongHorn Steakhouse.” says Jean Paul Manuud, president of The Bistro Group.
LongHorn Steakhouse Ribbon cutting- From left: RC Tiongson, Chief Operating Officer, The Bistro Group; Brad Smith, President of Darden International and Franchising; Max Collins, actress, celebrity, model; Jean Paul Manuud, President, The Bistro Group; Andrew den Oudsten, Executive Vice President of Operations, Shang Properties Inc.
Since its Atlanta debut in 1981, LongHorn has grown to over 590 locations worldwide, earning a reputation for steaks you can’t fake. Their Manila outpost is no exception, blending global expertise with a warm, local touch that makes every visit feel like coming home.
Shangri-La Streetscape: Ortigas’ New Gem
LongHorn’s home at Shangri-La Plaza Mall Streetscape Level 1 is a destination in itself. This open-air dining strip sparkles with charm, perfect for a post-meal walk under twinkling lights. Why not extend the day with a browse through Shangri-La Plaza’s shops or a movie at their cinema? It’s a hidden Ortigas treasure that turns your Mother’s Day meal into a full-blown adventure. Book your table, bring the family, and give Mom a day as incredible as she is.
As moms deserve nothing but the best on Mother’s Day, City of Dreams Manila unwraps thoughtful offerings – from dining, staycation, and wellness treatments – to spoil them on their special day.
Crystal Dragon’s Mother’s Day Special
Indulge mom with a hearty meal of fine Cantonese cuisine at the award-winning signature restaurant of City of Dreams Manila located at the upper ground floor of Nuwa Manila. To honor moms, Crystal Dragon presents a Mother’s Day a la carte menu available from May 5 to 11 for lunch and dinner. Certain to win their hearts, the menu consists of: Double-boiled Duo Treasure Lion’s Head in golden broth; Slow-braised Herbal Spring Chicken with fresh ginseng, abalone, and king mushrooms; Baked Live Sea Grouper with fragrant garlic sauce in a claypot; Wok-friend Spicy Mee Sua Noodle with crab meat and crispy soft shell crab; and Steamed Longevity Dumpling with sweetened peanut filling and Chilled Coconut and Mango Custard topped with sweetened bird nest.
Crystal Dragon is open daily from 12 noon to 11 pm.
Nobu Manila’s Mother’s Day Brunch
Surprise mom with a brunch experience at the Manila outpost of the world-renowned Nobu restaurant where signature Nobu-style dishes globally popularized by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa are featured in a hefty buffet spread.
Savor unlimited helpings of the popular Nobu classics such as the Nobu Signature Sashimi Trio of Tuna Matsuhisa, Yellowtail Jalapeno, Salmon Karashi Su Miso; Black Cod in butter lettuce, and chef’s selection of premium sushi cups and nigiri, which are featured alongside Mother’s Day specials including a carving station consisting of Roasted Whole U.S. Prime Ribeye, and Nobu Baked Salmon with shiitake mushroom and garlic crust. Other buffet highlights are the Japanese Uni Tempura, King Prawn with Aji Amarillo Aioli, Crispy Crab with sweet chili cilantro, and Nobu-style Beef Curry with mashed potato.
Completing the brunch spread are Gallagher oysters, blue crabs, shrimps, and mussels served with Nobu custom sauces at the chilled seafood bar, a whole tuna, which master chefs skillfully cut up for sashimi; an array of grilled meats and vegetables, salads, and a wide selection of desserts that include a white chocolate fountain.
The Nobu brunch concept combines an all-you-can-eat dishes from an a la carte menu, with a lavish buffet spread where chefs in action prepare Nobu sushi, sashimi and maki rolls at the sushi bar, and grilled skewered meats and vegetables at the kushiyaki station.
The Nobu Mother’s Day brunch is available from 11:30 am to 3 pm, and price starts at P4, 388 net per adult for the Regular package, inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails. Other packages that include alcoholic and premium beverages are also available. Children ages 6 to 12 years old enjoy half price, and five years and below dine for free when accompanied by an adult availing of the Nobu brunch.
Apart from the Sunday Brunch, Nobu Manila, located at Level 1 of Nobu Hotel, is open on Mother’s Day for dinner from 5 pm to 10 pm.
Café Society’s Mother’s Day Treats
As nothing compares to a sweet gift to brighten the occasion, Café Society curates handcrafted chocolates and exquisite confections masterfully prepared by chocolatiers and pâtissiers at Café Society. Perfect for gifting, Cafe Society’s Mother’s Day offerings from May 5 to 11 include: Ube Leche Velvet Cake, a soft ube velvet sponge with rich leche flan filling and smooth cream cheese frosting elegantly finished with crispy pearls and chocolate flower; Chocolate Milk Tea Cake, a decadent cake layered with black tea crémeux, chewy brownies, moist apricot sponge, and milk chocolate mousse topped with Biscoff cookies, edible chocolate flower, and teacup; and Mother’s Day Mini Duo Cake, which consists of rich chocolate moist sponge and bittersweet ganache, wrapped in silky buttercream and glossy colored chocolate glaze, and beautifully adorned with a mommy doll and dainty chocolate daisies.
Mother’s Day-themed artisanal chocolates include the Mom’s Dream Box package, a two-level visual feast containing an edible white chocolate pair of shoes filled with round salted caramel pralines sitting on a cookies and cream bar; and at the lower drawer is a golden caramel with coconut chocolate bar topped by ladies’ chocolate shoes and purse. Other chocolate creations include a Mother-and-Child White Chocolate Bar enhanced with dried cranberry, cherry, apricot, and mango; and homemade chocolate fudge with dried cranberries, and homemade chocolate fudge with roasted cashew nuts.
Wellness Retreat at Nüwa Spa
A well-deserved pampering session for moms beckons at NüwaSpa, the first Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rated spa in the country. The tranquil oasis provides bespoke treatments using premium French brand Biologique Recherche that spell a deeply relaxing and personalized spa journey for the mind, body, and spirit. Apart from the selection of wellness treatments ranging from signature spa suite experience, express massage options to facial treatments,the spa also offers a buy-1-take-1 promotion on Omorovicza products, whose therapeutic-grade products are known for harnessing the natural healing powers of the finest ingredients and the purest extracts and oils.
Made for Mom Staycation at Nuwa Manila, Nobu Hotel, and Hyatt Regency Manila
In celebration of Mother’s Day, City of Dreams Manila’s three Forbes Travel Guide Star-rated hotels highlight a dreamy getaway staycation package for direct bookings, which start at P12,200 at Nüwa Manila, P10,900 at Nobu Hotel, and P9,698 at Hyatt Regency Manila. Rates quoted are net.
The room for an overnight stay includes complimentary breakfast for two adults and two children 12 years old and below, P1,000 dining credits that can be used at City of Dreams Manila’s operated outlets, 20% discount on DreamPlay’s participating tickets, 20% discount on selected spa services at Nüwa Spa and Nobu Spa, and a complimentary Maxibar in the room. Booking period is until May 10 with stay period from May 9 to 11. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-221942 Series of 2025.Terms and conditions apply.
For inquiries, call (63 2) 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com; or visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com. Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android.
It’s New Movie Wednesday — your cue to ditch the midweek grind and light up the cinema! Eight fresh flicks are ready to steal your heart, spike your adrenaline, or leave you spooked. Whether it’s Black Bag’s espionage showdown, Creation of the Gods II’s epic mythical battles, or Rosario’s creepy chills, The Last Goodbye’s nostalgic 2000s love, In Between’s rom-com sparks, Picnic’s warm feels, Shadow Force’s non-stop action, or Final Destination: Bloodlines‘s eerie twists — there’s something for every kind of moviegoer. Tag your barkada, schedule that post-work movie date, and treat yourself to a film (or two). Here’s everything new in theaters this week—let’s roll!
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
What happens when love and duty collide? Black Bag throws you into a tense world of espionage where Kathryn Woodhouse (Cate Blanchett) is accused of treason. Her husband, a fellow agent (Michael Fassbender), must choose between his heart and his country. This drama-thriller, laced with mystery, keeps you guessing with every twist. Perfect for fans of smart, stylish spy flicks.
Why Watch? Blanchett and Fassbender’s chemistry is electric—expect edge-of-your-seat suspense!
2024 • R-13 • 2 hrs 25 mins ACTION, FANTASY, WAR GET SHOWTIMES
Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force delivers a jaw-dropping mix of action, war, and mythical lore. Taishi Wen Zhong leads the Shang Dynasty’s army against Xiqi, where Ji Fa and Kunlun immortals fight to protect their homeland. Stunning visuals and epic showdowns make this a feast for the eyes.
Why Watch? If you love larger-than-life sagas like The Lord of the Rings, this one’s calling your name.
The Final Destination franchise returns with a chilling new chapter. In Bloodlines, college student Stefanie (Kaitlyn Santa Juana) is haunted by violent nightmares. Her quest to break a deadly cycle leads to horrifying truths. Packed with the series’ signature gruesome twists, this horror-mystery is not for the faint-hearted.
Why Watch? Ready for a scream-fest? This one’s a rollercoaster of dread and suspense.
Looking for a romance that feels real? In Between follows Gaila (Sue Ramirez) and Shane (Diego Loyzaga), who start as casual “in-between” partners, dodging commitment. Their bond deepens through life’s ups and downs, but Shane’s ex threatens their newfound love. This drama-romance is a heartfelt ride with relatable vibes.
Why Watch? It’s a warm, fuzzy watch for anyone who’s ever fallen unexpectedly hard.
Picnic is a tender drama about reconnecting with the past. Eun-sim (Na Moon-hee) visits her hometown with her friend Geum-sun, sparking memories of teenage love with Tae-ho (Park Keun-hyong). This gentle story weaves nostalgia and quiet revelations, perfect for a reflective movie night.
Why Watch? A cozy, emotional gem that’ll leave you smiling through misty eyes.
Rosario traps its titular character (Emeraude Toubia) in a snowbound house with her grandmother’s body—and sinister forces that won’t let her rest. This creepy tale blends psychological chills with supernatural shocks, making it a standout scare.
Why Watch? If you love eerie vibes and jump-scare thrills, this one’s a must.
Shadow Force is an action-thriller with heart. Kyrah (Kerry Washington) and Isaac (Omar Sy), former special forces leaders, go off-grid to protect their son. But with a bounty on their heads and their old team in pursuit, it’s all-out war. Expect explosive action and family-driven drama.
Why Watch? Kerry Washington and Omar Sy bring fierce energy to this pulse-pounding ride.
Step back to the days of handwritten notes and fleeting love with The Last Goodbye. This early-2000s romance follows two souls (Daniela Stranner, Matt Lozano) finding solace in each other amidst pain. Fate tests their bond, delivering a bittersweet tale that tugs at the heartstrings.
Why Watch? A nostalgic love story for romantics who cherish emotional depth.
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:
2025 • PG • 1 hr 40 mins ADVENTURE, COMEDY, FAMILY, FANTASY GET SHOWTIMES
Ready to hit the theaters? Don’t sleep on the fan favorites still showing—check our Movie Section for showtimes and grab your tickets today. And while you’re planning your next movie night, don’t forget to mark your calendars for even bigger releases this May: Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning lands on May 17, Lilo & Stitch brings the aloha spirit on May 21, and Karate Kid: Legends packs a punch on May 28. Stay tuned for next week’s fresh batch of releases and updates. Enjoy the movies!
Get ready to unleash your inner Steve—this weekend just got pixel-powered!
This Friday, May 9, it’s time to craft a whole new movie-going experience! Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures invite Filipino fans to join the ultimate community watch party with “A Minecraft Movie: Block Party Edition!” It’s not just a movie—it’s a meme-worthy, sing-along spectacle that lets fans belt out their favorite tunes, quote the lines they love, and relive the Overworld like never before.
Whether you’re a hardcore builder or just here for the Creeper chaos, this version of the 2025 blockbuster phenomenon promises pure joy, community laughs, and diamond-tier energy.
A Whole New Way to Watch Minecraft on the Big Screen
Already breaking box office records worldwide, A Minecraft Movie is now returning to theaters with a wild, interactive twist.
“A Minecraft Movie: Block Party Edition!” is a fresh, fan-powered take designed for audiences who just can’t get enough of the iconic characters, quotable moments, and unforgettable music.
Got a favorite meme from the film? This is your moment. Craving to sing your heart out to the soundtrack? Let it rip.
So gather your crew, pick your skins, and head back to the theater—this time with extra noise allowed.
Tickets Now Available – Don’t Miss the Crafter’s Event of the Year!
Seats are filling fast! Secure your spot for this one-of-a-kind movie event today.
Based on the best-selling video game of all time, A Minecraft Movie is a live-action, action-comedy adventure like no other. Directed by Jared Hess (Napoleon Dynamite), the film stars:
In this pixel-powered tale, four misfit friends—Garrett, Henry, Natalie, and Dawn—are swept through a mysterious portal into the Overworld, a dazzling cubic realm where crafting equals survival. To make it back home, they must overcome Piglins, Zombies, and self-doubt, all while teaming up with Steve—the master builder himself.
It’s a hilarious, heartwarming, and high-stakes journey celebrating creativity, courage, and connection.
Final Block
Whether you’re in it for the memes, the music, or the mobs, “A Minecraft Movie: Block Party Edition!” is your ticket to shared laughs and Overworld nostalgia.
Don’t miss the event that’s got everyone building their weekend around it. Only in cinemas starting Friday, May 9.
Only 1 out of 3 Filipinos can save, with half of them opting to save their money at home, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. However, this traditional way of saving exposes their hard-earned money to risks of fire and theft, with BSP even noting its potential impact on currency circulation.
Woman use of smart phone in city at night
“Trusted financial institutions provide fundamental security for funds. On top of this, they also offer an opportunity for Filipinos to get the most out of their hard work: the availability of high-yield savings accounts that offer competitive interest rates,” said Winsley Royce Bangit, Group Head of New Businesses, GCash.
In a move to democratize access to high-yield savings accounts among Filipinos, GCash, through GSave, has partnered with microfinancial services provider Cebuana Lhuillier Bank to offer a savings account designed to provide higher interest rates, accessible through an e-wallet they already trust for everyday transactions.
“GCash and Cebuana are driven by the same mission of making financial services accessible to Filipinos nationwide, especially the underserved communities,” said Bangit. “Through this collaboration, we hope to empower Filipinos to cultivate their financial well-being by transforming saving from being a burden to being an actionable step.”
With over 3,500 branches nationwide, Cebuana is bringing its expertise in financial inclusion to the cashless ecosystem, enabled by finance super app GCash, with millions registered users in the country. Under the partnership, GCash users can now open an eC-Savings by Cebuana Lhuillier Bank account through GSave, a savings marketplace where users can grow and secure their funds within the GCash app. Account holders of eC-Savings by Cebuana Lhuillier Bank on GSave will get 3.5% p.a. interest, regardless of their deposit amount, enabling them to earn higher interest income compared with traditional savings accounts.
Perks for Savvy Savers: Cashback and Insurance
To help jumpstart their savings journey, users who open eC-Savings by Cebuana on GCash will get PHP 100 cashback on their initial deposit. Moreover, eC-Savings account holders will get up to PHP 33,000 in free accident coverage.
“While most hardworking Filipinos understand the value of having insurance, cost still prevents them from prioritizing it,” noted Bangit. “We introduced this benefit so they no longer have to face a trade-off between building their savings and having peace of mind during their daily hustle.”
Savings Made More Accessible
A key deterrent for Filipinos to save money in traditional banks is the perceived complexity of opening a bank account, typically requiring in-person visits and submission of supporting documents. The availability of Cebuana Lhuillier Bank on GSave eliminates this hurdle, as GCash users can open an account on GSave on the app, without having to submit additional IDs.
The BSP study also noted that among the mass market, the amount of savings they have tends to be small and often earmarked for immediate expenses, with most preferring to keep funds readily accessible at home. Given this need for accessible savings, GSave enables users to deposit as low as PHP 1 directly from their GCash wallet. Users no longer have to worry about their accounts being closed, as the eC-Savings account does not have a minimum maintaining balance.
“Filipinos’ hardworking spirit deserves to be matched by financial services that work just as hard as they do, actively supporting their financial goals. By building upon the trust of millions of Filipinos in GCash and Cebuana, we hope to empower their aspirations for a secure future by making saving truly accessible and rewarding for all,” concluded Bangit.
To open an eC-Savings by Cebuana account on GSave, you must be a Filipino Citizen, at least 18 years old, and a fully verified GCash user. Ready to grow your money? You may access GSave through the GCash dashboard or find it under “Grow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!
As we enter the month of May, Megaworld Lifestyle Malls unveils an exciting array of new experiences that combine style, flavor, and cultural immersion. From international coffee havens to chic spots that embrace culinary traditions, here’s a curated selection of the latest destinations that are perfect for every taste and occasion.
Starbucks IFC at Uptown Bonifacio
A modern haven for coffee aficionados, the newly opened Starbucks at the International Finance Centre offers a sophisticated blend of warm, inviting elements and sleek contemporary design. Whether for a quick pick-me-up or a casual gathering, this café provides the ideal backdrop for any occasion, inviting guests to savor their favorite iconic brews while soaking in the atmosphere of refined comfort. GF, International Finance Centre
Cangrejos Locos at Alabang West Parade
The returning fan-favorite restaurant brings a delightful burst of Spanish flavors to its new home at Alabang West Parade with a menu that celebrates the richness of Spanish cuisine, including creative takes on the beloved paella. Each dish is a bold journey of taste, offering a symphony of flavors that transport guests to the heart of Spain, making it the perfect destination for food lovers seeking both authenticity and unique experiences. GF, Alabang West Parade
Sunnies Flask at the Venice Grand Canal, McKinley Hill
From the renowned eyewear brand Sunnies Studios, Sunnies Flask at the Venice Grand Canal offers a stylish and personalized twist on a quintessential summer accessory. Guests can select from a vibrant range of colors and sizes to customize their flasks, making it the ultimate addition to any summer outing, blending function with fashionable flair. GF, Venice Piazza
Explore these exciting new destinations only at Megaworld Lifestyle Malls! For updates, visit megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call (63 2) 8462-8888.
Today is a good day for Cadbury, thanks to its signature smooth and creamy chocolate taste. And now, everyone can experience the same indulgence—not just today, but every day—as Cadbury makes its chocolate bar even more accessible to Filipinos!
Cadbury is making every day and any moment feel special with a chocolatey treat—your favorite OG Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate bar is now available at your nearest sari-sari store for just ₱8!
Make no mistake: this affordable Cadbury Sult is still the same chocolate bar you know and love, just made to be within easy reach of Filipinos who crave a regular, delightful pick-me-up or sweet treat.
And because the PHP8 Cadbury Sulit is designed specifically for Filipino sari-sari stores—meaning, it is intended to endure typical store temperatures —you will always get that premium chocolate experience with every Cadbury bite!
“Cadbury believes that everyone, especially Filipinos, deserves to eat chocolate and experience the everyday indulgence chocolate provides. This affordable Cadbury Sulit Pack makes that possible. We’re bringing the smooth taste of Cadbury Dairy Milk to sari-sari stores, right at the center of our local communities for only 8 pesos”, said Allana Paz, Assistant Brand Manager, Cadbury Philippines.
Paz added: “It is that snack that will bring comfort and relaxation when we want a simple treat on the daily. Good quality chocolate is now more available and more accessible, empowering more people to reward themselves with a delicious bar every day. It also reinforces the brand’s commitment to providing a special chocolate experience that caters to the taste and lifestyle of Filipinos.”
The new PHP8 Cadbury Sulit Pack is now available at sari-sari stores nationwide. For more information, follow the official Cadbury Milk Facebook page at https://facebook.com/cadburyph.
The beloved world of How to Train Your Dragon spreads its wings once more—this time in a stunning live-action adaptation that reimagines the heart, magic, and emotional depth of the original. For Cressida Cowell, author of the bestselling book series, the transition from page to animation to live-action has been nothing short of enchanting.
“Walking through the village of Berk or into the blacksmith’s forge was like stepping into a dream,” Cowell says. “The attention to detail—the wear on the tools, the weathered wood of the buildings—made everything feel alive. It was extraordinary.”
Dean DeBlois Returns to Berk
At the helm once more is visionary filmmaker Dean DeBlois, who directed the original DreamWorks animated trilogy. This time, he’s crafting the saga in a breathtakingly real way.
“I decided to revisit How to Train Your Dragon because it presented a remarkable opportunity—not only to direct a live-action film, but to return to a world I’ve genuinely missed,” DeBlois says. “These characters and this universe have stayed with me, and now we can bring them back with such authenticity and conviction that, when audiences enter this world, they’ll never want to leave.”
Set on the rugged Isle of Berk, the film follows Hiccup, a young Viking whose world is turned upside down when he forms an unlikely bond with Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Together, they challenge centuries of Viking tradition in a story filled with bravery, wonder, and transformation.
Watch the “Bringing Berk to Life” Featurette:
A Heartfelt Bond That Defies Time
With the live-action format, the emotional gravity of Hiccup and Toothless’s friendship takes center stage in a powerful, grounded way. Realism was key, especially when it came to bringing dragons to life.
“The key is grounding the dragons in familiar animal behaviors,” DeBlois says. “By drawing inspiration from cats, dogs, horses and other animals, we’ve created creatures that feel authentic even though they’re fantasy creatures. Each dragon has a unique personality, and they live within a real, grounded world. Our goal was to make audiences believe in dragons as completely as they believed in the dinosaurs of Jurassic Park.”
Each dragon, meticulously designed, bursts with personality—thanks to creature behaviors rooted in real-world zoology. The result? A fantastical realm that feels uncannily real.
New Faces, Same Magic
The live-action film stars Mason Thames (The Black Phone) as Hiccup and Gerard Butler, who reprises his role as Chief Stoick the Vast. The ensemble also includes Nico Parker, Nick Frost, Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, Bronwyn James, Harry Trevaldwyn, Ruth Codd, Peter Serafinowicz, and Murray McArthur.
With cutting-edge VFX, sweeping visuals, and soul-stirring storytelling, the movie promises a fresh take on a modern classic—while honoring the themes that fans cherish most.
Rediscover the Magic
“My hope is that audiences who loved these characters in animation will discover them all over again, both with familiar warmth and surprising new depth,” DeBlois says. “We approached this adaptation with profound respect for what came before, while daring to imagine what could be. It’s a story that captures the magic of flying, the courage to question what we’re taught and the wonder of discovering something extraordinary within yourself. That’s what How to Train Your Dragon has always been about—and what this film delivers in a way audiences have never seen before.”
This Mother’s Day, Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila presents a memorable line-up of stay, dine, and experience offerings designed to make every mom feel celebrated and cherished.
The Made for Mom Staycation Package offers the perfect weekend escape for families looking to treat their mothers to rest and indulgence. Guests can enjoy an overnight stay with buffet breakfast at Cyan Modern Kitchen, and a special dining perk where Mom dines free for every two paying guests for dinner buffet on 11 May or lunch buffet on 12 May at Cyan Modern Kitchen. The package also includes complimentary late check-out until 4PM, subject to availability, for added relaxation.
On 11 May, treat mom to an exquisite Mother’s Day Lunch or Dinner Buffet at Cyan Modern Kitchen, priced at PHP 3,000 nett per person. Children aged 12 and below dine at 50% off, making it a family-friendly celebration. Highlights of the culinary showcase include cochinillo, slow-cooked beef, seafood toast, lobsters and crabs, Tuscan salmon, mango truffle cheese pizza, and a vibrant selection of healthy Indian dishes. A complimentary mimosa and a special gift for all moms complete the experience.
As a prelude to the celebration, a Pre-Mother’s Day Floral Arrangement Workshop and High Tea will be held on 10 May at Madeleine High Tea. For PHP 3,800 nett per person, participants can enjoy an intimate afternoon with a guided floral arrangement session followed by an elegant high tea. Limited slots ensure a personalised and inspiring afternoon for all attendees.
“Mother’s Day is a time to slow down, express gratitude, and create lasting memories, with thoughtfully designed experiences offering a balance of pampering and personal connection that make this celebration truly special.”
To know more, visit our website at https://lansonplace.com/mallofasia. Lanson Place Mall of Asia is located at Block 12, Palm Coast Avenue corner Seaside Boulevard, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. Follow its official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram).
