As the season shifts to brighter skies, Megaworld Lifestyle Malls continues to set the stage for refined leisure and dining across its properties. With a curated selection of new experiences, each destination invites guests to bask in special moments of taste, style, and relaxation.
Here’s a glimpse into the latest offerings that promise to make the season extraordinary:
Engkanto Taps at Forbes Town
For those who appreciate the art of craft beer, Engkanto Taps delivers an exceptional experience with its renowned selection of locally brewed beers. Known for its signature flavors and commitment to quality, Engkanto Brewery brings its celebrated brews on tap in a modern, cozy setting with elevated comfort food—a true haven for connoisseurs and newcomers alike. Open from 5PM-2AM at the Forbestown Rd.
NEW Lounge at Newcoast Beachwalk
Embodying sophistication and tranquility, the NEW Lounge at Newcoast Beachwalk redefines relaxation with its upscale services in nail care, eyelash styling, and wellness. This chic, modern sanctuary celebrates the beauty of the Filipina, offering a clean and stylish space to unwind and rejuvenate in unparalleled comfort. Open from 9AM-6PM
Coming Soon – Randy’s Donuts at McKinley West
A globally recognized icon, Randy’s Donuts is about to grace McKinley West with its legendary presence. This American classic, famous for its decadent, oversized donuts, offers indulgent flavors that are sure to captivate the senses. Known for its premium quality and pop culture impact, Randy’s Donuts provides the perfect treat for those who savor the sweet treats of the season.
Discover the finest new experiences at Megaworld Lifestyle Malls and indulge in the season’s most anticipated offerings. For updates, visit megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call (63 2) 8462-8888.
Hollywood’s biggest names and music’s finest talents unite for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Hans Zimmer & Friends: Diamond in the Desert. This spectacular concert film will be screened globally, with exclusive showings at Opus Premier Cinemas VIP Cinemas on March 19, 25, and April 1 at 7:00 PM.
Filmed at the breathtaking Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, the concert showcases Hans Zimmer conducting his most iconic compositions, including scores from Dune, Gladiator, Interstellar, The Lion King, and more.
More Than Just a Concert – A Conversation with Legends
Beyond the mesmerizing performances, this cinematic event takes audiences behind the scenes, featuring insightful discussions with some of the biggest names in entertainment, including:
Sir Christopher Nolan– Visionary director behind The Dark Knight trilogy and Inception
Hans Zimmer’s music has defined generations of cinema, and now, you can witness its full power in a state-of-the-art theater setting. With VIP seating available at only PHP 900, this is your chance to immerse yourself in cinematic brilliance like never before.
Secure your seats for this extraordinary event at Opus Premier Cinemas. Book now and be part of film and music history!
Horror fans, brace yourselves! This March 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of the legendary Final Destinationfranchise. Since its debut on March 17, 2000, the chilling series has kept audiences on the edge of their seats with its creative and shocking death sequences. And now, Warner Bros. Pictures is giving fans the ultimate anniversary gift—a 25-hour livestream featuring the 25 most iconic deaths from the franchise!
The Final Destination Deathstream kicked off at midnight on March 18 (Philippine time) and will loop a 25-minute highlight reel of the franchise’s most unforgettable moments. But that’s not all—stay tuned for potential surprises about the highly anticipated new film, Final Destination Bloodlines!
Watch the Deathstream now:
Death Returns: ‘Final Destination Bloodlines’ Hits Theaters This May!
The franchise’s latest installment, Final Destination Bloodlines, is set to bring a fresh wave of terror to the big screen when it premieres exclusively in cinemas on May 14, 2025. The film introduces a brand-new cast of characters, including Kaitlyn Santa Juana and Teo Briones, both of part-Filipino descent, alongside Richard Harmon (The 100) and the late Tony Todd, a fan-favorite from the series.
Watch the Teaser Trailer Now:
About ‘Final Destination Bloodlines’
In this latest terrifying chapter, Final Destination Bloodlines takes audiences back to the very origins of Death’s design. College student Stefanie experiences a violent recurring nightmare—a premonition of her and her family’s grisly fate. Desperate for answers, she embarks on a journey to find the one person who might help her break the cycle before it’s too late.
New Line Cinema presents A Practical Pictures / Freshman Year / Fireside Films Production: Final Destination Bloodlines. The film will be distributed in theaters and IMAX worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures on May 16, 2025, with an international release starting May 14, 2025.
Are you ready for Death’s next move? Final Destination Bloodlines arrives in theaters this May—and no one is safe! #FinalDestination #Bloodlines
‘Game of Thrones’ star Iain Glen is set to join the cast of TBA Studios’ highly anticipated historical biopic, “Quezon,” the production company announced on March 17, 2025.
‘Game of Thrones’ star Iain Glen
The Scottish actor, best known for his role as Ser Jorah Mormont in HBO’s fantasy epic, will portray Leonard Wood, the U.S. Army major and former Governor-General of the Philippines. Wood played a pivotal role in Manuel L. Quezon’s relentless fight for Philippine independence from the United States.
A Stellar Addition to a Landmark Film
Glen recently met with the cast and crew for a script reading held at The Manila Hotel, a venue rich in historical significance.
Image Credit: TBA Studios; (Iain Glen with “Quezon” director Jerrold Tarog)
Acclaimed director and co-writer Jerrold Tarog shared his excitement about Glen’s involvement, stating:
“(Iain Glen) has gravitas. But at the same time, he can let loose, which is important for the role of Leonard Wood.”
TBA Studios President and COO Daphne O. Chiu echoed Tarog’s sentiments:
“We are very honored to have Iain Glen in ‘Quezon’,” said TBA Studios President and COO Daphne O. Chiu. “This film is shaping up to be one of the biggest productions in Philippine cinema, with one of the largest casts ever assembled. We are excited to share with Iain—and the rest of the world—the production scale and level of artistry that Filipino filmmakers are capable of.”
Jericho Rosales and Iain Glen
A Production Backed by Key Cultural Institutions
The film has received substantial backing from Philippine cultural agencies, including:
National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)
Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), which is providing funding
Department of Tourism
QCinema Film Foundation
These institutions recognize Quezon as a significant cinematic endeavor, highlighting the untold stories of Philippine history on a global scale.
A Star-Studded Cast and an Epic Story
Glen joins Jericho Rosales, who will portray the titular role of President Manuel L. Quezon, the visionary leader of the Commonwealth of the Philippines from 1935 to 1944.
“Quezon” Cast and Crew with Iain Glen
Apart from his Game of Thrones fame, Glen has captivated audiences in films and series such as:
With production set to commence this March, Quezon promises to deliver a compelling, large-scale historical narrative—one that brings to life the passion, struggles, and triumphs of a nation on the brink of independence.
Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking film!
Breaking barriers and making history, Ne Zha 2 has officially become the first non-Hollywood film to exceed $2 billion USD at the global box office! This phenomenal achievement cements the film’s status as a game-changer in the animation industry, proving that compelling storytelling transcends borders.
Adding to its accolades, Ne Zha 2 is now the highest-grossing animated film of all time and ranks as the 6th best-selling IMAX film worldwide—an extraordinary feat for a Chinese production.
The Story Continues
Picking up from the electrifying events of the first film, Ne Zha 2 follows the resurrection of Ne Zha and Ao Bing, whose bodies were destroyed by heavenly lightning. Master Taiyi works tirelessly to restore them, but as they regain their strength, a new threat looms—Ao Bing’s father is out for revenge, seeking justice for what the human world did to his son.
With breathtaking animation, heart-stopping action, and deep emotional themes, Ne Zha 2 takes audiences on an unforgettable adventure filled with family, destiny, and redemption.
Director Jiao Zi’s Heartfelt Tribute to Family
For director Jiao Zi, Ne Zha 2 is more than just a film—it’s a deeply personal project. Inspired by his own supportiveparents, he wanted to highlight themes of family love and perseverance.
In an interview with South China Morning Post, Jiao Zi shared,
”My family is harmonious. Thanks to my parents’ support and tolerance, I could carry on working in this industry. So I wished to integrate my real thoughts and feelings into my work.”
Originally pursuing a degree in pharmacy, Jiao Zi later discovered his passion for animation. His mother convinced his father to believe in his dream, leading him to study animation on his own. His breakthrough came after his short film See Through won multiple local and international awards, paving the way for his career in the industry.
Catch the Phenomenon in Philippine Cinemas!
The global buzz around Ne Zha 2 is unstoppable—and now, Filipino moviegoers can experience this cinematic masterpiece firsthand.
Don’t miss out on one of the most groundbreaking animated films of all time. Watch Ne Zha 2 now in Philippine cinemas!
It’s now more true than ever that our lives are lived pretty much on the go. Many of us are juggling work, a social life, our hobbies, and everything else that’s important in between. And in this whirlwind, big and bulky smartphones can be too much, too unwieldy to rely on.
That’s where the Xiaomi 15 — distinguishing itself from the rest of the game as a “Compact Flagship” — steps in. With its power-packed yet comfortable form, the Xiaomi 15 redefines what a flagship experience can be.
With its sleek 6.2-inch AMOLED display, the Xiaomi 15 fits comfortably in your grip, allowing you to seamlessly manage your day without feeling like you’re wrestling with a large machine that you can barely operate with one hand. Huge smartphones used to be in, but now, it’s about reclaiming your freedom.
But don’t let its compact form fool you; just because it’s smaller, doesn’t mean the Xiaomi 15 doesn’t pack a serious punch. Its Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset means you can effortlessly switch between demanding apps, edit photos on the fly, and even dive into immersive mobile gaming all without a hint of lag. It’s the kind of performance that keeps up with your pace, ensuring you’re always one step ahead of everything you need and want to do.
And speaking of photos, the Xiaomi 15’s 50MP camera powered by AI transforms everyday moments into stunning memories.Whether you’re capturing a vibrant sunset during your evening jog or snapping candid shots at a bustling market, the results are consistently impressive. No more lugging around a heavy and attention-grabbing DSLR just to get in some photos — your pocket-sized powerhouse has you covered.
Of course, the Xiaomi 15 lets you do everything you want to do all day. Its 5,420mAh battery, coupled with 90W Hypercharging, keeps you powered throughout your day. From morning meetings to late nights out, the Xiaomi 15 is your reliable companion.
The Xiaomi 15 isn’t just a phone; it’s a lifestyle upgrade in a compact flagship. It’s about having the best of both worlds: flagship performance in a form factor that fits seamlessly into your life. It’s about embracing the freedom to do more, without being weighed down.
The Xiaomi 15 comes in two storage variants, starting from 45,999 for 12+256GB, and PHP 49,999 for 12+512GB. Get the productivity boost you deserve and order now on the official Xiaomi stores on Shopee and Lazada and offline stores nationwide. Home Credit users can also avail of the 0% Installment promo to get the Xiaomi 15 instantly.
To learn more about the Xiaomi 15, visit the Xiaomi website at http://mi.com/ph.
Celebrate Women’s Month with These Five Unforgettable Stories of Power and Perseverance
Imagine stepping into the shoes of women who defied the odds, challenged authority, and left lasting legacies. This Women’s Month, set aside fictional superheroes and explore real-life heroines whose courage changed the course of history. From high-stakes legal battles to royal struggles, these five biopics on Lionsgate Play spotlight the unbreakable spirit of women who stood their ground.
Starring Helen Mirren, Woman in Gold tells the true story of Maria Altmann, a Jewish refugee who fights to reclaim her family’s stolen art, including Gustav Klimt’s iconic Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I. With the help of a young lawyer (Ryan Reynolds), she takes on the Austrian government in a legal war that spans decades. A gripping tale of resilience and justice, this film reminds us that history should never be forgotten.
Based on real events, Bombshell exposes the toxic work culture at Fox News, where Gretchen Carlson (Nicole Kidman), Megyn Kelly (Charlize Theron), and Kayla Pospisil (Margot Robbie) take on powerful media mogul Roger Ailes. When Carlson speaks up about sexual harassment, she sparks a movement that encourages women to break their silence. With standout performances and a compelling narrative, Bombshell is a must-watch for those who believe in the power of speaking up.
This inspiring biopic follows the early career of Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Felicity Jones), showcasing her relentless fight against gender discrimination in the legal system. The film highlights her landmark case that paved the way for equal rights, ultimately leading to her becoming a U.S. Supreme Court Justice. On the Basis of Sex is a powerful tribute to one of the most influential women in American history.
4. Spencer (2021) A princess fighting for freedom.
In Spencer, Kristen Stewart delivers a haunting portrayal of Princess Diana as she navigates the suffocating confines of royal life. Set during Christmas 1991 at Sandringham, the film offers an intimate look at Diana’s emotional turmoil as she struggles with mental health issues and a failing marriage. A visually stunning and deeply moving character study, Spencer captures the essence of a woman desperate to reclaim her identity.
Helen Mirren transforms into Golda Meir, Israel’s first and only female prime minister, in this gripping historical drama. Golda takes viewers into the tense days of the 1973 Yom Kippur War, revealing the immense burden of leadership in times of crisis. With high-stakes political decisions and intense personal struggles, this film showcases the strength of a woman who stood firm in the face of adversity.
Stream These Powerful Stories on Lionsgate Play
Celebrate the resilience of women this International Women’s Month by watching these inspiring true stories. Access Lionsgate Play via PLDT Home and Smart, and keep your movie marathon going with more titles that honor women’s strength, courage, and impact.
Spring Adventures Await – Unmissable Cherry Blossom and Summer Deals with GCash and Klook
March is here, and you know what that means—it’s time to pack your bags and chase some of Asia’s most breathtaking experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of cherry blossoms in full bloom or a splashy summer escape, 2025 is shaping up to be your year to explore. And guess what? GCash and Klook are teaming up to make it happen with exclusive deals you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive into the best destinations and how you can score big savings on March 18-19!
Why March is the Perfect Time to Travel
March kicks off one of Asia’s busiest travel seasons, and it’s easy to see why. Cherry blossoms start painting Japan and Korea in shades of pink, while summer vibes heat up in places like Taiwan and Thailand. The clock’s ticking though—sakura season fades by April, so now’s the time to plan with your barkada or family. Not sure where to go? We’ve got you covered with some top picks that’ll make your Instagram feed pop!
Cherry Blossom Magic in Japan
First stop: Japan, the ultimate sakura destination. If you’ve ever wanted that postcard-perfect shot with cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji in the background, a day tour to Hakone is calling your name. Just a short trip from Tokyo, this gem offers stunning views of Japan’s highest peak framed by blooming sakura trees.
Picture this: You’re on a comfy, air-conditioned bus, zipping toward Mount Fuji and Hakone. The tour includes a ride on the Hakone Ropeway—think epic cable car views—and a peaceful cruise on Lake Ashi. It’s the kind of day that’s equal parts relaxing and awe-inspiring. Perfect for solo travelers or couples looking to soak in nature’s beauty!
Speed Through Osaka’s Sakura Streets
Craving something a little more adventurous? How about a go-kart ride through Osaka? Yes, you read that right! You’ll zip through the city at 60 kph, dressed as your favorite character (Mario, anyone?), with cherry blossoms whizzing by. You’ll pass iconic spots like Namba and Dotonbori, turning heads as tourists snap pics of you and the blooms. It’s a thrill worth every peso—and a story to tell back home in Manila!
South Korea’s Sakura Spotlight
Not ready to commit to Japan? South Korea’s got its own cherry blossom charm with the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival (aka Jinhae Gunhangjae). This is where culture meets nature in the best way possible. Think military performances, traditional Korean vibes, and, of course, those gorgeous pink blooms everywhere you look.
A day tour here takes you to Gyeonghwa Station Park, where old trains sit surrounded by sakura trees—perfect for that artsy photo op. Then, head to Yeojwacheon Stream for a chill lunch with cherry blossoms lining the water. It’s serene, it’s stunning, and it’s a must-visit if you’re a K-drama fan or just love a good cultural immersion.
Summer Vibes Across Asia
Not into spring? No problem—summer adventures are just as tempting! If you’re more about sun and sea, Asia’s got plenty to offer. Here are a few ideas to kickstart your warm-weather getaway.
Snorkeling in Taiwan
Head to Penghu, Taiwan, for some underwater magic. Known for its lavender and rose corals, this spot is a snorkeler’s paradise. Island hopping here is a vibe—crystal-clear waters and a laid-back feel that’s perfect for a weekend escape from the daily grind in Metro Manila.
Waterpark Fun in Thailand
Traveling with kids or your inner child? Andamanda Phuket Waterpark in Thailand is your spot. Packed with slides, pools, and Thai-inspired architecture, it’s a family-friendly way to beat the heat. Plus, it’s a quick flight from the Philippines—ideal for a long weekend!
Foodie Heaven in Vietnam
Love food as much as travel? Book a cooking class in Hanoi, Vietnam. Some even include a market tour where you’ll snag fresh ingredients for your dishes. Imagine whipping up pho or banh mi with your friends—it’s a tasty way to bring a piece of your trip back to your kitchen in Quezon City!
Score Big with GCash and Klook’s Super Brand Day
Now, here’s the best part: you don’t have to break the bank to make these trips happen. On March 18-19, GCash and Klook are rolling out their Super Brand Day with deals that’ll have you booking faster than you can say “sakura selfies.”
Here’s the scoop: Book any of these activities (or tons of others!) on Klook, spend at least PHP 3,000, and pay with GCash to get up to PHP 500 off. Just use the code KLOOKGCHERRY at checkout. Want to spread out the cost? GGives offers 0% installment plans, so you can travel now and pay later. The promo works sitewide for all destinations (with a few exceptions—check the fine print!), making it super easy to turn your travel dreams into reality.
There’s a good amount of charm in the movie ‘Novocaine’ that helps soften the moral gray area that the film comfortably resides in. Directed by Dan Berk and Robert Olsen and written by Lars Jacobson, ‘Novocaine’ finds an everyman character with the condition to not feel any pain and turn him into a raging vigilante in hot pursuit of love. The film takes much joy in the way that it attacks and brutally damages the protagonist’s body and injects humor by showing how it doesn’t hurt him at all. When the lead reacts in kind, the bad guys feel it at full force. The film revels in the handing out of punishment and while it can be funny, 110 minutes of it can be a bit daunting.
The lead character in question, Nathan Caine (Jack Quaid of ‘The Boys’ and ‘Companion’) has a rare congenital condition that stops him from feeling pain. His whole life revolves around this condition, preventing him from solid foods and timing his excretory functions. It has kept him isolated and constantly cautious. But a new co-worker, Sherry (Amber Midthunder of ‘Prey’) catches his eye and she’s intrigued by his quiet and mysterious demeanor. Inspired to change things up by a client at the bank, Nathan takes Sherry’s offer for a date, and they hit it off that there’s a significant change in Nathan the very next morning. He’s about to ask her out again when a bank robbery occurs at their place of work and Sherry is taken as a hostage. With the cops disabled from the bank robber’s firepower, Nathan takes it upon himself to chase after them and to secure Sherry’s safety while the police are after them, thinking that Nathan might be an accomplice.
Amber Midthunder as “Sherry” and Jack Quaid as “Nate” in Novocaine from Paramount Pictures.
The film is extremely careful to portray Nathan as a good person so that when he starts to fight back, we feel justified in his actions. Especially since the film is dead set in making every battle as brutal and gruesome as ever. As seen on the trailer, Nathan puts his hands in a deep fryer, hot enough to turn his hand to mush. Trust the directors to do a close-up and to edit it quickly to Nathan’s face who is completely unaffected by what should be searing pain. On the other hand, the film ensures that everyone he fights, they are awful and evil and beyond redemption so that when they get their comeuppance, you can be rest assured that only the bad guys feel pain.
Jack Quaid as “Nate” in Novocaine from Paramount Pictures.
It feels like a trend that’s popping up these days where movies are being more and more emboldened to do the worst, they can on whoever they judge is deserving of these intense and extreme cases of violence. From abusive men in films like ‘Blink Twice’ and ‘Companion’ and then films like ‘Monkey Man’ and ‘Boy Kills World’ where the violence is directed to fascists and dictators. ‘Novocaine’ follows on the same trope wherein we are expected to be more forgiving because the bad people are getting “what they deserve” even if it’s not what is regarded as justice by our laws. These films are creating a justification for vigilante justice because we are all becoming more and more aware that the law and law enforcement isn’t doing what it is supposed to do.
Jacob Batalon as “Roscoe” in Novocaine from Paramount Pictures.
Through comedy, the film can take the most grotesque of fight scenes – it happened several times when someone got hurt in such a clever, unexpected way that I and everybody else in the cinema groaned really loud in empathy – and make it palatable because it’s happening to “the right people,” which in the politics in the film are criminals and nazis and fascists. And the film highlights Nathan’s priority which is the safety of a woman he just had one date with rather than the money that was stolen, which he gives away to people who need it. While admirable, it’s not his money to give.
Jack Quaid as “Nate” in Novocaine from Paramount Pictures.
And as romantic as it seems – the everyday man becoming a hero for the right girl – it supersedes rule of law and practicality. While the movie is fun and charming, I’m a little taken aback by the statements it makes about the world: a sudden romance is worth killing for and that is perfectly okay to be brutal to people who we deem deserve it. It’s a very thin line. Yes, it’s escapism. It’s a fantasy. But when enough films and series reinforce this fantasy, when do start thinking that it is right? And would I have this much worry if the film wasn’t so charming?
My Rating:
Novocaine is now showing in cinemas—ready to feel the thrill? Check showtimes and grab tickets here.
Rev your engines! Warner Bros. Pictures has dropped the official trailer for F1, the adrenaline-pumping new film starring Brad Pitt. Set to race into theaters and IMAX on June 27, 2025 (domestically) and June 25, 2025 (internationally), this Apple Original Films production is helmed by Top Gun: Maverick director Joseph Kosinski and produced by legendary names like Jerry Bruckheimer, Lewis Hamilton, and Pitt himself.
A Redemption Story on the Fast Track
Pitt plays Sonny Hayes, a former Formula 1® prodigy whose career was cut short by a near-fatal crash. Now, decades later, his old teammate Ruben Cervantes (played by Javier Bardem) convinces him to return to the sport, hoping to save a struggling team from collapse. But it won’t be easy—especially with Damson Idris as the young hotshot driver determined to leave his own mark.
Shot during actual Grand Prix weekends, the film promises an authentic, pulse-pounding experience like never before, featuring real F1® action as the characters battle against the world’s top drivers.
An All-Star Crew, On and Off the Track
The cast also includes Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies, Kim Bodnia, and more, with a Hans Zimmer score that’s sure to amplify the thrill. Written by Ehren Kruger, F1 brings together a powerhouse creative team to deliver what could be the most immersive racing film ever made.
Watch the official trailer now and get ready to hit top speed when F1 races into theaters next summer! #F1Movie
