The queen of chaos is back—and she’s deadlier than ever. Blumhouse has just unveiled the teaser trailer for “M3GAN 2.0,” the highly anticipated sequel to the 2023 horror hit that turned a robotic companion into a murderous icon.
A brand-new “M3GAN 2.0” is set to launch in Philippine cinemas on June 25—and if the teaser is anything to go by, this chilling upgrade is going to be bigger, bolder, and bloodier. Want the latest updates? Follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
The pop culture sensation that took over 2023 is back, but she’s not alone this time. Reuniting the brilliant creative minds that first brought M3GAN to life, horror masters James Wan (Atomic Monster), Jason Blum (Blumhouse), and director Gerard Johnstone are ready to unleash another chaotic chapter in AI horror.
Returning & New Cast Members
M3GAN 2.0 sees the return of Brian Jordan Alvarez and Jen Van Epps as tech experts Cole and Tess, along with new cast members: Aristotle Athari (Saturday Night Live, Hacks) Timm Sharp (Apples Never Fall, Percy Jackson and the Olympians) Jemaine Clement (Avatar: The Way of Water, What We Do in the Shadows)—a Grammy winner and 11-time Emmy nominee!
Another Spider-man on the screen? Sure, it’s not a movie, but we’ve already had three in the last two and half decades (Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield, Tom Holland) on the big screen and we even have Miles Morales in the two brilliant, animated films ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ and ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.’ There are probably even more on streaming networks for series that I’m not aware of. But with Disney+ spending quite a bit on the marketing of their latest release, ‘Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man’, there was something about the animation style and the innocence of the trailer that got to me.
Luckily, I was able to catch the first 6 episodes of the first season and I was very much charmed by the whole alternate timeline.
Not set in the “sacred timeline” of the MCU, ‘Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man’ shares a different origin story for Peter Parker and how he becomes the web-slinger. As young high school freshman, the show really emphasizes his youth and innocence. The relationships he builds in school and the way that he juggles classes, his internship at Oscorp, and crime-fighting are what makes Peter such an interesting character. Oftentimes, you could get annoyed at how someone so young could put so much unto his plate, but you forget that that is power of youth: the idealism and hope that pervades into their every being. This Peter is the epitome of that.
But all versions of Spider-Man reflect different approaches to this idealism and explores different ways by which Peter Parker is a hero. What is refreshing in this presentation is how Peter Parker is not suffering alone, not completely. As the episodes unfold, we see a surprising number of people who figures out his identity early on – and they are really surprising bunch – and all of sudden, Peter Parker has the support that he needs; something he never really got from the different versions of the story except Tom Holland’s. But while Holland’s support and mentor comes from Iron Man himself, this iteration has him mentored by someone whose story is being rewritten by this alternate timeline. It’s just as complex as Tony Stark but adds a new layer and sheen to the show.
Also, the support cast is quite engaging: from his best friend Nico Minoru and his crush Pearl Pangan (yes, she’s Filipina!) to his surprisingly refreshing jock-lab partner Lonnie Lincoln. The Osborns are definitely in the show – both Harry and Norman – but the way their characters are written here are completely out of type (or so it appears).
The whole DNA of Spider-Man, at least when I was collecting comics back in the 80s and 90s, was that Spider-Man was always the hero who had to support himself. He worked at a job that despised his alter ego (J Jonah Jameson of The Daily Bugle) and he always had to juggle work and surviving while being so powerful and funny and carefree as the Spider-Man. Some of that changed with the MCU version, with Tom Holland’s Spider-Man being given support from Iron Man. But here, seeing the support that Peter Parker gets from his friends and the people who end up knowing about him is quite a different variation that feels more aligned with the times.
The world is so crazy now and the younger generation seem more adaptable to change and to strangeness. The way that Spider-Man seems to interact with this world feels so at pace with where things are now on a social spectrum. Before, Spider-Man was easily defamed by J Jonah Jameson. Here, Jameson is nowhere in sight and Spider-Man seems loved by the people. Again, this feels right up this world’s alley.
I’m excited to see how all of this unfolds, especially knowing how some of these characters are going to be in the future. From their names alone, you know who they are going to end up, if you are savvy with the comic book world. I was expecting to question why the need for another Spider-Man show or movie but this one, much like Miles Morales in the ‘Into the Spider-verse’ Spider-Man, justifies its own existence by showing us what it is that this character can be representative of. That young man who wants to do so much to fix the world that really isn’t his problem to fix.
February is bringing a fresh lineup of must-watch films and series to Netflix, with an exciting mix of romance, drama, action, and intrigue. Whether you’re in the mood for heartwarming love stories, gripping thrillers, or high-stakes adventures, this month’s selections have something for everyone. From the scam-filled antics of Sosyal Climbers to the long-awaited reunion in Hello, Love, Again and the thrilling cyber crisis in Zero Day, these new titles promise to keep you entertained all month long. Ready to update your watchlist? Here’s what’s new on Netflix this February!
When Lainy’s plans to settle down and start a family fizzle, she puts on a fake baby bump, tells a huge lie — and unexpectedly falls for her dream guy.
After a meet-cute ends in a whirlwind romance, a couple must learn to navigate the messy reality of married life that’s nothing like a fairy tale ending.
After moving to Bogotá for a chance at a better life, a young Korean man rises through the Colombian black market — risking peril for a shot at success.
Two young women advocate for wellness remedies to cure deadly illnesses, unraveling their lives as they unknowingly — and knowingly — mislead the world.
A family moves into a vintage smart home and discovers that it’s under the control of a virtual assistant — who will stop at nothing to keep them there.
With two map pieces secured, Sugimoto and Asirpa continue their hunt for the remaining 22 tattooed convicts whose bodies hold the key to hidden treasure.
Monster hunter Geralt of Rivia gets drawn into an epic conflict between land and sea in this animated film from “The Witcher” universe.
Demon City (Film) Launch date: February 27
Framed for his family’s murder and left for dead, an ex-hitman will stop at nothing to exact revenge on the masked “demons” who have taken over his city.
MORE FOR YOUR MUST-WATCH LIST
Celebrity Bear Hunt (Series) Launch date: February 5
Holly Willoughby hosts this competition show set in the Costa Rican jungle, where 12 celebrities become prey for that fearsome hunter — Bear Grylls.
Envious: Season 2 (Series) Launch date: February 5
Vicky finds herself torn between two possible paths: marrying and building a family project with Dani, or allowing herself to explore a relationship with Matías. At times, that country club life she once dreamed of no longer seems so appealing, but the desire sparked by the possibility of a new love terrifies her. More neurotic and frazzled than ever, she begins to go back and forth between both worlds, unwilling to let go of either. Desperate, she will have to make a decision and face the consequences.
A Stockholm detective under internal investigation heads to a ski resort to unwind, until a young girl’s disappearance compels her back to work.
A Different World: Seasons 1 to 6 (Series) Launch date: February 7
Season 1: Follow Denise Huxtable and the students of Hillman College as they adjust to campus life in this landmark sitcom, spun off from “The Cosby Show.”
Season 2: With Denise returning home to her family, Whitley and her friends at Hillman College face a brand new school year full of adventures and headaches.
Season 3: Dwayne gets a makeover that catches Whitley’s eye, Jaleesa and Walter reevaluate their relationship, and Ron falls for a single mom.
Season 4: Whitley pursues Dwayne, but he’s moved on. Meanwhile, Col. Taylor’s son enrolls at school, and Ron’s in danger of not graduating.
Season 5: Romance blooms when Col. Taylor and Jaleesa get married and Dwayne proposes to Whitley, but Dwayne’s new job isn’t going as well as his love life.
Season 6: Newlyweds Dwayne and Whitley try to adjust to living together. Meanwhile, Ron is torn between Kim and Freddie, and Lena Horne visits Hillman.
Dog Days Out (K&F Series) Launch date: February 13
When their humans are away, cute and curious pup Holm and his dog pals love to play with their best friends — their favorite toys!
When his daughter decides to buy a crumbling Tuscan villa, Eric rushes to Italy to talk her out of it — and instead finds beauty, romance and new purpose.
The Most Beautiful Girl in the World (Film) Launch date: February 14
A playboy stages a dating show to earn his inheritance by granting his father’s last wish: for his son to marry the most beautiful girl in the world.
On their wedding night, a timid momma’s boy and a daring wild child find themselves on the run from ruthless goons, finding love and chaos in a night of crazy adventures— all while searching for the elusive Charlie!
Toxic Town (Series) Launch date: February 27
Brave mothers fight for justice in a drama based on the true story of the Corby poisonings, featuring Jodie Whittaker, Aimee Lou Wood and Claudia Jessie.
With such a diverse selection of new releases, February is shaping up to be an exciting month for Netflix viewers. Whether you’re drawn to romantic dramas, edge-of-your-seat thrillers, or action-packed adventures, there’s no shortage of must-watch content. From the nostalgic charm of A Different World to the intense revenge tale of Demon City, this month’s lineup guarantees endless entertainment. So grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and get ready for a streaming marathon—you won’t want to miss these top picks!
February 2025 brings an exciting array of new content to Prime Video, offering something for everyone—from thrilling action and gripping drama to heartwarming romance and mind-bending sci-fi. With highly anticipated original series and blockbuster movies making their streaming debut, this month is packed with must-watch entertainment that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Invincible Season 3 Premiere Date: February 6, 2025
Based on Robert Kirkman’s award-winning comic book series, Invincible follows 17-year-old Mark Grayson, as he inherits his father’s superpowers and sets out to become Earth’s greatest defender, only to discover the job is more challenging than he could have ever imagined. Everything changes as Mark is forced to face his past, and his future, while discovering how much further he’ll need to go to protect the people he loves.
Steven Yeun, Sandra Oh, J.K. Simmons, Seth Rogen, Walton Goggins, Gillian Jacobs, Jason Mantzoukas, Zazie Beetz, Grey DeLisle, Zachary Quinto, Chris Diamantopoulos, Ross Marquand, Khary Payton, Andrew Rannells, Kevin Michael Richardson, Ben Schwartz, Clancy Brown, Jay Pharoah, Mark Hamill, and Melise Jow form the cast of this animated series.
Having started his mandatory military conscription at a later age, Jae-yoon (Park Jeong-min) faces anxiety about his future. Due to challenges from being apart from his girlfriend Young-joo (Jisoo), they have a sudden break-up after an argument. However, a zombie outbreak spreads across the city, forcing Jae-yoon to step up as leader of his squad. Meanwhile, Young-joo experiences her own difficulties as a rookie in the workforce. She is frustrated with Jae-yoon due to him misunderstanding her heart. While on her way to see him, she witnesses the zombie rampage and adapts in order to survive. Thinking of each other first as boyfriend and girlfriend, the pair run across a zombie-laid city to be together again.
Set in London, this is the British adaptation of the successful Amazon Studios Spanish Original Movie Culpa Mia based on the first book of Mercedes Ron’s bestselling Culpables trilogy. When Noah’s mother, Ella, falls in love with the very wealthy William, the two move from America to London to live with William and his son Nick. Upon arrival, the 18-year-old Noah meets bad boy Nick, and there is an immediate attraction between the two. Noah spends the summer adjusting to her new life, making new friends from Nick’s various circles, and navigating a complicated relationship with him while they fight to keep the attraction at bay. But unbeknownst to Noah, her estranged father has been released from prison and starts tracking her every move. Noah will ultimately be forced to deal with her devastating past while falling in love for the first time.
Broken Rage follows a hitman, Nezumi (played by Takeshi Kitano), fighting for his survival when he’s caught between the police and yakuza. But in the second half, the gritty crime-action thriller takes an unexpected turn, evolving into a self-parodying comedy that retells the same story with a captivatingly humorous touch.
It is directed, written, and starring Kitano himself (Beat Kitano) alongside his Zatoichi star Golden Globe Best Supporting Actor in a Series, Mini-series or Television movie (for Shogun) Tadanobu Asano among others.
Based on Lee Child’s novel Persuader, in the third season of the action-packed series, Reacher hurtles into the dark heart of a vast criminal enterprise when trying to rescue an undercover DEA informant whose time is running out. There he finds a world of secrecy and violence—and confronts some unfinished business from his own past.
Reacher Season Three stars Alan Ritchson in the titular role of “Jack Reacher” with Maria Sten reprising her role as “Frances Neagley.” New to the cast this season are Anthony Michael Hall as “Zachary Beck,” Sonya Cassidy as “Susan Duffy,” Brian Tee as “Quinn,” Johnny Berchtold as “Richard Beck,” Robert Montesinos as “Guillermo Villanueva,” Olivier Richters as “Paulie,” and Daniel David Stewart as “Steven Elliot.”
With such a diverse selection of new content arriving on Prime Video in February 2025, there’s no shortage of binge-worthy entertainment to enjoy. Whether you’re catching up on the latest hit series or diving into a newly released film, Prime Video has something to suit every taste. Be sure to mark your calendars and get ready for a month filled with unforgettable stories and exciting premieres!
Considering its stellar cast – Song Hye-kyo, Jeon Yeo-been, Lee Jin-wook, and a breakthrough performance from young star Moon Woo-jin – there’s a lot that feels missing in the horror film ‘Dark Nuns’ by director Kwon Hyeok-jae. The filmmaking is flashy: lots of extreme close-ups, quick cuts, loud sound design, and imagery that’s meant to be dark, vague, and disturbing. All this is great in the first twenty minutes of the film but as the film unfolds, it cannot substitute the lack of genuine scares or the absence of a stronger, compelling story.
Song Hye-kyo plays Sister Junia, an unordained nun who performs exorcisms for a sect within the Catholic Church. She is known as the “dark nun,” who is knowledgeable in all matters of demonic possession. It opens with her arriving at a home where a priest is struggling to exorcise a demon possessing a young boy named Hee-joon (Moon Woo-jin). We know she’s tough and experienced because she doesn’t go straight to the scene on her arrival. She first has a cigarette and bides her time before she makes her move. There she battles the demon and while she rescues the priest, she only manages to force the demon back into hiding. Hee-joon is transferred to a hospital where Sister Junia finds opposition from Father Paolo (Lee Jin-wook), a priest who is also a doctor, and he frowns upon exorcisms, insisting that these are psychological issues that can be fixed medically. Caught in-between is Father Paolo’s protege, Sister Michela (Jeon Yeo-been). Sister Michela is also a doctor and a nun, but she also has visions and has the potential to be a shaman
The two sisters must find common ground to save Hee-joon from the demon inside of him before… well, this is where the film becomes sketchy because it never really underlines the stakes. Yes, we know the child must be free of the possessing spirit, but the film muddles the cost. Will the child die? Will the demon – a personification of something called “the 12 manifestations,” an idea that is never really explored in depth – become more powerful after a certain point? What is this “12 manifestations” and does it have any effect on the world outside of this child?
The film skirts through most of the story elements. We know Sister Junia is not well, but we don’t know of her life before this. Sister Michela has an implied history with the supernatural, which seems to have caused someone’s suicide. But this is not fully explored either. Aside from saving the boy’s life, we don’t really know what this exorcism means for the two women, and it sort of diminishes the sense of accomplishment one may feel from this whole exercise.
The whole film, from the very opening scene, until it’s conclusion, is completely centered on this one possession. What is wonderful is how, on the orders to save this boy by “any means necessary,” Sister Junia employs shamans and include shamanistic rites to aid in the exorcism creates a wonderful intersection of cultures. Western prayers spoken in Latin (or is it Italian, I’m not sure) while the colorful, energetic rituals of Korean shamanism are playing in the foreground and in the background is such an exciting imagery that is at work.
But the film has no genuine scares. The boy is restrained, he’s shouting expletives and saying vulgar and disgusting things – with an excellent performance by Moon Woo-jin who delivers this with such commitment – while the two sisters are praying over him and demanding him to leave the body. It’s dramatic for the first 20 minutes or so but as the film progresses (and the film is almost two-hours long) it starts to get repetitive. And you start to realise that there’s no inherent danger here.
Despite it being a horror film that isn’t horrifying and with characters that I feel distant and indifferent towards, I do appreciate director Kwon Hyeok-jae’s approach to filming this religious aspect of the film. There’s no reverence or mystery to how he captures the Catholic faith. In fact, he’s not afraid to show the in-fighting within the sects and battles of ideology that is happening inside the church. All of the religious aspects of the film are really just decoration here, juxtaposed side-by-side with Korean shamanism, not favoring one over the other in an imagery sense, Kwon Hyeok-jae creates a battle not between a demon and religion but that of a demon and a human being, who just happened to be a nun. Sister Junia could have been a plain doctor or a shaman or a Filipina witch doctor and it would have been the same movie. The de-mystification of the Catholic faith feels refreshing and new. I wished the film just took less time trying to impress us with its mood shots and dramatics and explored a bit more of the characters to give us something to chew on.
My Rating:
Dark Nuns is now showing in cinemas. Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.
“In the books, on the screen, it feels like you’re having a reunion with your friend” That’s how two-time Academy Award® winner Renée Zellweger describes stepping back into the beloved role of Bridget Jones after all these years.
Bridget’s journey has always resonated deeply with fans, evolving alongside them through life’s ups and downs. And now, in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, we get to catch up with her once more—this time as a single mother, navigating love, loss, and laughter.
With a star-studded cast and a heartfelt story, this film is the perfect Valentine’s treat. Catch Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy in Philippine cinemas on February 12!
A Story That Grows With Its Audience
For director Michael Morris, Zellweger’s return is nothing short of magical.
“Renée is one of these people who is absolutely herself,” Morris says. “She’s wildly friendly and bursts through any preconception you may have about what a Hollywood star is like. This woman has been in all my favorite films. For as long as I can remember, character after character—from comedies and dramas to musicals, there’s nothing that she doesn’t do. But when you’re talking to her, she’s completely present. I think that’s why she’s so wonderful in this role.”
The film explores Bridget’s life after heartbreak, as she raises her two children while adjusting to a world without Mark Darcy (played by Oscar® winner Colin Firth). Though life has taken unexpected turns, Bridget’s charm, humor, and resilience remain stronger than ever.
Zellweger on Why Bridget Still Matters
For Zellweger, playing Bridget is more than just a role—it’s a personal and emotional journey.
“It’s funny, I can chronicle my own decades and life experiences around making these films with the extended Bridget family,” Zellweger says. “It’s always very emotional when we get back together with true friends, and more so when we leave. There is a correlation between Bridget and me that is strongest with people who love her…but it’s within themselves. We had the opportunity to create Bridget on screen, but people were already in love with her. Bridget reminds us that it’s okay to be imperfect. You can still get the guy, still succeed and be happy when you’re just yourself. You’re okay being imperfect.”
This sentiment has made Bridget Jones an icon of modern romance, proving that even with all her awkward moments and mishaps, she is endlessly relatable.
What to Expect in Mad About the Boy
In this new chapter, Bridget is facing a whole new set of challenges—raising her 9-year-old son Billy and 4-year-old daughter Mabel while grappling with the loss of Mark. But she’s not alone. Her loyal friends and even her former flame Daniel Cleaver (Hugh Grant) are by her side.
Bridget’s journey takes her through the chaotic world of modern dating, juggling motherhood and rediscovering herself in the process. Expect laughter, romance, and the signature heartwarming moments that make Bridget Jones films so special.
Produced by Working Title Films, the movie brings together the brilliant team behind hits like Les Misérables, The Danish Girl, and The Theory of Everything.
Zellweger is joined by an all-star cast, ensuring that this installment delivers the perfect mix of nostalgia, romance, and humor.
Are you ready to reunite with Bridget Jones? Mark your calendars and get your tissues (and laughs) ready!
I went into the cinema to watch the thriller ‘Companion’ without any knowledge about the film. I didn’t watch a trailer. I didn’t read any notes or reviews. All I know was that it was marketed as “from the creators of Barbarian,” which is one of my favourite films of 2022. ‘Barbarian’ was written and directed by Zach Cregger and he produced ‘Companion,’ which is directed and written by Drew Hancock. The film is a creepy thriller that is a refreshing take of the genre of films populated by films like ‘Don’t Worry Darling’ and ‘Blink Twice.’ Watching the trailer now that I’ve seen the movie, it’s safe for me to say that the film involves the power struggle between a woman and a man but is further complicated by the commodification of AI and the human form.
Sophie Thatcher is incredible as Iris, a woman who is going out of town for the weekend with her boyfriend Josh (Jack Quaid). They are going to a secluded mansion in the woods to spend a weekend with Josh’s friends. There she meets Eli (Harvey Guillen) and his boyfriend Patrick (Lukas Gage), Kat (Megan Suri), and her partner Sergey (Rupert Friend). Iris is not comfortable in that crowd, her attachment to Josh seems weak and laughable to Kat, and it triggers her anxiety and discomfort. But things turn chaotic and murderous when Iris inadvertently discovers that she is a companion robot and that Josh is not the man she thought he was.
Much like the uneven ‘Don’t Worry Darling’ and the brilliant ‘Blink Twice,’ ‘Companion’ explores how women are manipulated and controlled by men. But unlike both movies, ‘Companion’ finds its own voice by being whimsical, funny, irreverent, and takes pleasure in giving space for the woman in question – here, represented by a robot – to find her revenge. Unlike the other two movies mentioned that focuses on the depravity of the men who do these things and the imperative of women to fight for their freedom, ‘Companion’ is more geared towards entertaining us with the thoughts of getting back at the people who did this to her.
It is riding a wave of a political discourse that is fighting oppression with the same fire that has fueled the oppressors. This has the same tone as the eat-the-rich films that have sprouted in the past few years, but this film has set its sights on the men who abuse and dominate women. In this sense, the film feels related to even the recent MMFF film ‘Uninvited’ with the way that it stirs the audiences and gets them to cheer for Iris when she takes the reigns and fights back. The way that Hancock has maneuvered his plot, and his character development allows the audience to actually cheer when the tables are turned and the robot finds their power to enact their vengeance.
And that’s really the power of comedy to use humor to allow us to embrace darker themes and ideas. By making us laugh, we lower our guard and allow us to cheer for what is essential murder but allowing us to justify it by focusing on the heinous actions of the perpetrator. We leave the cinema entertained but the film has planted that seed that we will think harshly of anyone who will be caught doing these acts in real life. Hopefully, not murder, but we will take it seriously.
Thatcher is incredibly arresting as Iris. The nuance of her performance becomes even more apparent as we see her at the point of discovery that her life is a lie. Every look, every reaction is connected to her character being a sentient robot. The other stand out here is Guillen, whose comedic timing is pitch perfect.
Surprising at every turn. If you like bloody gore, violence, and female-driven movies, ‘Companion’ is the film to watch and it’s best to not see the trailer coming in. It’s best to be surprised.
My Rating:
Companion is now showing in cinemas. Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.
I genuinely miss the mid-range and small budget dramas and comedies like ‘Sideways’ or ‘The Holdovers.’ These are personal, intimate stories that’s completely character-driven and while the story feels contained, the writing and the performances expand the scope that makes it feel universal and authentic. This is where the Jesse Eisenberg written and directed film ‘A Real Pain’ falls under and it does so quite well.
On the surface, it’s about two Jewish cousins, polar opposites of each other, who travel to Poland to reconnect with their recently passed grandmother and with their heritage. They join a tourist group for a holocaust tour and in the process the cousins collide as their personalities clash and their histories are dug up and strung out for everyone to see. It’s funny but also painful and embarrassing at times but it’s also honest. But deep down, the film really is a study on mental health, but it also explores the burden and weight of the immigrant narrative, how the stories of their grandparents and the struggles they had in coming to America can sometimes spark a sense of responsibility and, in the other, a sense of guilt.
While the film feels so far removed from our own experiences here in the Philippines, I got to see shades of these emotions bubbling over all my cousins and friends who are first generation immigrants to the United States, and even some in the second-generation. We may never have suffered the ranks of genocide the way that Jewish people have during World War II or the genocide that one of the characters in the film shared, as he was from Rwanda, but we Filipinos have also seen the horrors of war.
And this is the magic of Jesse Eisenberg’s script. The story is so rooted in the cousins – the anxious David (Jesse Eisenberg) and the charismatic but also destructive Benji (Kieran Culkin) – and their story and their connection to the holocaust but the way they interact with each other, the way that David is scared to call out Benji when he’s being rude or destructive and the way that Benji can’t help but be disappointed that his cousin did not grow up to be the person he thought he would be. These little dynamics of their relationship and the precision of Eisenberg and Culkin’s performances convey these nuances really remind us of our interactions with our family. We have siblings or cousins that are like this, and we tiptoe around them while others just bulldoze over us and it’s all out there for us to see in this lovely little film.
It’s wonderful to be in a dark, cold cinema and seeing these seemingly ordinary lives struggling through a life moment but seeing it on full screen. It’s so humanizing. This is the cinema that I miss. Sure, the blockbusters are fun. They are a feast for the eyes but as the studios release one big tentpole blockbuster after another, one sequel after the next, it all gets muddled and boring. But movies like ‘A Real Pain’ helps me get back to myself and to my own little issues and personal demons.
There’s no question as to why Culkin is nominated for Best Supporting Actor in the current award season rush, including winning the Golden Globe. It’s a bravura performance that truly encapsulates Benji’s issues. The film never openly states it but, from my experience, his manic followed by depressive and confrontational states is just representative of bi-polar disorder; as I’ve seen it in family members, friends, and even co-workers. Eisenberg has played this character before so we know he does it well but the rest of the cast – Jennifer Grey, Kurt Egyiawan, Liza Sadovy, Daniel Oreskes, and the ever-reliable Will Sharpe – help fill out this world and gives the two leads a space to really play out their character’s inner worlds.
I really want more movies like this to return to the cinemas rather than just immediately sending them over to streaming. These intimate; personal stories are elevated by putting them on the big screen. It reminds us of our humanity in the most surprising of ways.
My Rating:
A Real Pain is now showing in cinemas. Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.
Garmin has updated its Descent range with the announcement of the Descent™ X50i, its largest dive computer with a vivid 3” color touchscreen display1.
Using SubWave™ sonar technology, divers can use Descent X50i to communicate with one another underwater and monitor each other’s tank pressure, depth, and distance to keep tabs on one another when visibility may be limited2. They can also explore greater depths with an integrated backup dive light, 20 ATM dive rating, and leakproof metal buttons.
“Whether scuba diving, cave diving or seeking out shipwrecks, we know how important it is to have the most accurate data at all times. Featuring a big, bright display and 20 ATM dive rating, the new Descent X50i is the perfect dive computer for technical divers and a great option for recreational divers who want to clearly see key stats and critical information while exploring the underwater landscape.” – Dan Bartel, Garmin Vice President of Global Consumer Sales
Dive-focused design
Boasting a vibrant 3” color display, Descent X50i makes it easier to read more data at a glance. The touchscreen helps make setup simple and is great for navigating maps and settings to prepare for the next adventure. To take on the most technical dives, Descent X50i includes a strong sapphire lens, leakproof metal buttons and a backup dive light that is bright enough to be used while underwater. Dual elastic bands fit comfortably and securely around the wrist and feature buckles with an arrowhead attachment for easy one-handed closure while an adjustment lock can prevent slipping.
Explore the depths
Designed by divers for divers, Descent X50i is ready for the next underwater excursion.
Air integration: Keep track of your tank’s air pressure when paired with a Descent T2 transceiver.
Monitor other divers: See tank pressure, depth and distance of up to eight divers who are using a Descent T2 transceiver, up to 10 meters away2.
Diver-to-diver messaging: Using SubWave technology, send preset messages to other connected divers, up to 30 meters away2.
DiveViewTM maps: Plan the next dive with preloaded bathymetric depth contours and over 4,000 dive sites worldwide.
In-dive depth chart and history: View depth history in real-time to better understand the locations that have already been explored and how they will affect the decompression plan.
Ascent dive profile: Visualize an ascent plan through the Projected Ascent data field, which shows a projected depth profile associated with the current Time-To-Surface (TTS). The chart also plots depth over time and displays decompression stops and gas switches.
Tide data: Before heading out, check nearby tide data3 to stay up to date on ocean conditions.
Dive compass: Navigate above (and below) the water with a 3D dive compass.
Once divers are back on dry land, the dive log lets them review data, track gear, take notes and share details via their Garmin Dive™ app. They can also use the carrying case to store their Descent X50i in between dives. To prepare for their next dive, users can take advantage of built-in GPS to navigate to over 4,000 preloaded dive site locations from around the world or add extra details – like points of interest – to dive sites with DiveView maps, an extension of the preloaded TopoActive maps. Surface GPS can also help users track their surface entry and exit points with advanced satellite connectivity.
The Garmin Descent X50i will be available beginning January 23 for PHP 94,990. Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for adventurers, athletes, off-road explorers, road warriors and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing products that enhance experiences, enrich lives and help provide peace of mind, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday.
1 Touchscreen display only functions on the surface. 2 Additional equipment (sold separately) and device pairing required. Dive messaging requires line of sight between transceivers. 3 When paired with a compatible smartphone; see Garmin.com/ble.
Chinese New Year is a time to manifest good luck and prosperity into our lives. With 2025 being the Year of the Wooden Snake, there’s great focus on growth and transformation in different aspects of our lives, from relationships to career to personal goals.
If you’re looking to bring in good fortune in fun ways, Robinsons Department Store Galleria has set up eye-catching installations at the Atrium to get you in the Chinese New Year mood. There are also exciting activities and surprises that you and your loved ones can enjoy until January 31, 2025.
Robinsons Department Store is giving shoppers the chance to check their 2025 Horoscope forecast at the Atrium area. You can also score limited items on sale during the Lunar Lucky Fair, so be sure to grab clothes in auspicious colors and home decor to ward off bad luck and welcome more good fortune.
The festivities don’t stop there. You can get the chance to win amazing prizes with Robinsons Department Store’s plethora of Chinese New Year activities. First, visit the iconic Robinsons Department Store Galleria fitting room to find out if the myth of the snake is real or not. Snap a selfie in the Mystery Fitting Room and share your photo on social media to get a chance to win gift certificates.
Check out the free photo booth where you can Pose & Get Lucky from January 29 to 31. This trendy photo booth is the perfect souvenir for you and your shopping buddies. You can also get the chance to take home some cool surprises from Robinsons Department Store.
Lastly, get ready to scream for your luck when you play the Snake Machine happening from January 24 to 26. More prizes await you at this thrilling game, which will surely bring out your competitive side.
Plan out your Chinese New Year hangouts now at Robinsons Department Store Galleria until January 31, 2025. May good fortune come to you during this festive season.
