Marvel fans, rejoice! Sony Pictures has unveiled the first eight minutes of Kraven the Hunter, giving audiences a sneak peek into the action-packed origin story of one of Marvel’s most fearsome villains. The footage, which electrified fans at New York Comic Con last October, captures the essence of Kraven’s relentless nature as an apex predator in the Marvel universe.
Actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who stars as the titular character, delivers a heartfelt opening message in the video, spreading holiday cheer before plunging viewers into a gripping cinematic experience.
Book Your Seats Now
Mark your calendars! Kraven the Hunter roars into Philippine cinemas on December 11. Secure your tickets here.
What to Expect from Kraven the Hunter
Kraven the Hunter isn’t just an origin story; it’s a visceral exploration of vengeance, power, and survival. Aaron Taylor-Johnson portrays Kraven, a man driven by his tumultuous relationship with his father, Nikolai Kravinoff, played by the formidable Russell Crowe. This father-son conflict propels Kraven into a brutal journey to become the world’s greatest hunter—and one of Marvel’s most iconic villains.
This holiday season, experience the thrill, the action, and the hunt. Follow the story of Kraven as he rises to claim his place as one of Marvel’s fiercest antiheroes.
Distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, a local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, Kraven the Hunter is set to deliver an epic year-end blockbuster. Don’t forget to share your excitement with #KravenTheHunter!
Visionary director Ridley Scott has long been known for his ability to cast actors who leave indelible marks on audiences. For Gladiator II, the stakes were higher than ever. How do you follow up the Oscar-winning original? Enter Paul Mescal, the breakout star from Normal People, who Scott describes as “a very sound, solid, sympathetic actor.”
Scott first noticed Mescal for his quiet intensity and likened him to acting greats like Richard Harris and Albert Finney. “He seemed a very sound, solid, and sympathetic actor. As this story in the script started to evolve, I kept thinking about him. I knew that he was a very good theater actor, which to me is a plus. Theater actors keep me honest. I tend to be very visual and move like lightning. They like to know about the story and the characters between each take.”
A Star in the Making
Playing Lucius, the son of Maximus (Russell Crowe’s iconic character from the original), Mescal had to balance emotional depth with physical ferocity. Producer Douglas Wick says the decision to cast him was a “leap of faith.” Mescal’s transformation from the sensitive lead of Normal People to a commanding gladiator wasn’t an obvious choice. But as Wick notes, “That meant we either had to find a new star or make one. It was an incredible risk on a big movie to choose an actor who’s never carried one. And our protagonist also had to be credible as an action hero. Ridley, the producers and the studio all held hands with Mescal and jumped off a cliff. We would soon discover that Paul is one of those once-in-a-generation talents who always lands on his feet.”
From Rugby to Rome
Mescal’s athletic background was another asset. Producer Lucy Fisher recalls how they asked Mescal if he had any sports experience. His answer? Irish rugby, a sport demanding grit and resilience. “were all wowed by Paul’s talent.” But they first had to check one very important thing: if Mescal played any physical sport that could help him with his journey of becoming a gladiator for the film. “We had to sheepishly ask if he had ever played any sports, hoping to see a sign that he could play a gladiator,” Fisher recalls. “When he replied ‘Irish rugby,’ which we know demands toughness and more than a little lunacy, we knew we had our man. Some might say it was a gamble, but Paul has such wisdom and depth as an actor and such clarity as a human being that it never felt like a risk. Plus, the camera loves him, as did everyone who worked with him.”
Rigorous Preparation
Transforming into Lucius wasn’t just about looking the part. Mescal dove into intensive training with Tim Blakeley of Media Physiques, perfecting swordsmanship and enduring grueling workouts. Mescal describes the preparation as pivotal: “There were all kinds of practical elements,” he says. “I was going to the gym, weight training, running, eating a certain way, all of these things. The training was something I could grab onto with both hands during prep. Ridley’s only interest is the talent for which he hired us. You’ve got to just step into it.”
A Career-Defining Role
At just 28, Mescal’s resume is already dazzling: an Olivier Award for A Streetcar Named Desire and an Oscar nomination for Aftersun. But starring in a Ridley Scott epic? “pinch-me moment.” “Ridley Scott’s a king in cinema and especially this genre,” the actor says. “When Ridley comes knocking, you just say yes. It’s definitely been a career highlight for me to watch the way the master’s brain works. And he was incredibly generous about sharing his knowledge and talent with me.”
As Mescal reflects on the legacy of Gladiator, he acknowledges the gravity of the role: “It holds a huge amount of weight for a vast number of people across the world. And the scale of it is huge. It’s not like any other role I’ve played. Going from independent features to a blockbuster studio picture was intimidating until I realized that acting is acting is acting, regardless of the context.”
Experience the epic journey in Gladiator II, opening in cinemas on December 4. Stay connected: use the hashtag #GladiatorII and tag @paramountpicsph to join the conversation.
ROCK Networks is thrilled to announce the release of its new documentary, Zero to Macao, set to premiere in January 2025 on Now TV Hong Kong. Co-produced with Lucky Devil Films Production, and in association with Now True, Zero to Macao will be launched exclusively on Now TV in Hong Kong as a two-part series (2 x 52’).
“We’re excited to partner with Now TV for Zero to Macao, a trailblazing documentary that aligns perfectly with their commitment to delivering high-quality, inspiring stories to documentary enthusiasts,” said Beatrice Lee, CEO of ROCK Networks.
Zero to Macao explores female resilience and athleticism in traditionally male-dominated sports, providing a fresh perspective on gender equality and feminism. Directed by Jonathan Finnigan, renowned for his award-winning series for the National Geographic Channel and Smithsonian Channel, the documentary delves into Vivian Siu’s journey from almost zero driving experience to competing in the formidable Guia circuit.
Jonathan Finnigan shared his thoughts on the film: “As our journey towards Macao unfolded, Vivian began to open up and the real drive behind her ambition started to emerge. That’s what the film ended up being about. Accomplishing something extraordinary always comes at a price.”
To watch Zero to Macao trailer, visit: www.rockentertainment.com/zero-to-macao.
ABOUT
ROCK Networks distributes content via Linear Pay-TV channels, branded and unbranded VOD, and FAST platforms across the globe. Our multi-genre catalogue contains over 2,000 hours of content, including natural history, documentaries, lifestyles, movies and entertainment, short-form digital, and preschool kids’ programming.
ROCK Networks offers a portfolio of media brands such as ROCK Entertainment, ROCK Action, ROCK Extreme, Global Trekker, Smithsonian Channel, ZooMoo, and Golden Chinese Drama Channel.
We engage audiences worldwide across multiple platforms, including television, digital, OTT, and live events. The company is headquartered in Singapore, and it has a global distribution.
Visit www.rockentertainment.com for more information about ROCK Networks.
Get ready for the Biggest Baby Store in the Philippines! Baby Company was thrilled to unveil the grand opening of its largest store to date, located at Greenhills Mall, San Juan, Metro Manila happening last November 15, 2024. This flagship store is set to become the ultimate one-stop shop for all things baby. Here’s everything parents can expect from Baby Company’s newest branch.
More Brands, More Choices
Baby Company has been the go-to destination for new, expecting, and experienced mothers since 1991, with its wide selection of baby products that cater to all of the parenting needs. Because babies deserve only the best, Baby Company features only the most trusted baby brands like Avent, Hegen, Pigeon, Lansinoh, Chicco, Looping, Cetaphil, Mustela, Rascals, among many others–allowing parents to shop with confidence, knowing they’re choosing the best quality for their little ones.
A Modern and Fresh Look
Mom and baby needs are ever-changing, and Baby Company is committed to providing parenting solutions with its refreshed look, which includes a modernized logo, updated graphics, and a fresh store design. The new look is designed to create an inviting and relaxing ambiance, elevating the shopping experience for parents. With its thoughtfully curated displays and lifestyle areas, Baby Company offers a welcoming and enjoyable environment where parents can comfortably explore and find the perfect items for their little ones.
Services to make parenting easier
Baby Company offers a range of thoughtful services designed to make parenting easier for busy moms. The new eGift Registry allows parents to create and share a personalized list of baby essentials to ensure they get exactly what they need. Friends and family will also no longer need to guess what to buy and will prevent duplicates and unnecessary gifts. Parents can now browse, compare, and select products that best suit their baby’s needs through Baby Company’s new e-Catalogue. This interactive tool simplifies the research process for parents because complete details among trusted baby brands are readily from the comfort of their homes. Don’t forget that Baby Company also offers gift wrapping in-store, as well as call-to-deliver service for those who need items conveniently delivered within the day.
Exclusive Offers and Promos for Moms
The launch will also introduce new promotions, including the digitized Mom Card (Baby Company’s rewards and loyalty program) which allows parents to earn points as they shop, redeem exclusive discounts and get VIP access to events. Enjoy other perks with Baby Company’s Speed Tap Game, which features amazing promo offers just for your babies. This relaunch marks Baby Company’s unwavering commitment to being more than just a store – but a partner in every parent’s journey. With an expanded range of trusted brands, innovative products, and services that meet the needs of the modern mom, Baby Company is truly your partner in every step of parenthood.
Learn more about the all-new Baby Company and take advantage of exclusive deals! Visit Baby Company’s newest and largest branch at Greenhills Mall, opening on November 15, 2024. To celebrate, Baby Company is offering a free Mom Bag canvas tote for customers with a minimum single-receipt purchase of P5,000 until November 21 only. Stay tuned for more updates and exclusive offers by following Baby Company on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok.
The Discovery Resorts marked the start of its festive season with captivating Christmas tree lighting ceremonies across its properties. With unique themes and heartfelt celebrations, each event showcased the joy and togetherness that define the holidays.
Under the theme “Whimsical Holidays,”Discovery Boracay and Discovery Coron brought to life a Polynesian-inspired celebration filled with vibrant performances and heartfelt community-driven initiatives. Infused with the spirit of the sea, the warmth of the islands, and the magic of the holidays, the Tree Lighting ceremony began with a captivating tale. The storytelling wove a narrative of how all things return to nature, celebrating the timeless cycle of life. This enchanting theme was reflected in the Christmas tree itself, adorned with delicate blooms and vibrant flowers that symbolized growth, renewal, and the beauty of nature’s resilience. It stood as a radiant centerpiece, blooming with the magic, wonder, and joy of the season.
As we lit the tree of Discovery Boracay, the air was filled with heartwarming performances from the employees and the Boracay Ati Choir. Established in 2005, the Boracay Ati Choir was born from a shared passion for music and faith. Encouraged to join the choir of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish in Balabag, young members of the Ati community—ranging from primary students to high schoolers—have carried on this heartfelt tradition ever since. The choir has become a symbol of cultural pride and youthful artistry showcasing their vibrant spirit.
Adding a personal touch to their performances, they even sing original songs composed by a talented member of their community, sharing stories and melodies unique to their heritage.
The celebration continued at Discovery Balay, the staff house grounds of Discovery Boracay, adorned with festive lights and vibrant Christmas elements for the Boracay community to enjoy. Special guests during the activity included Malay Mayor Floribar Bautista, Rev. Fr. Francis Bolivar, and Re. Fr. Jogie Esmeralda.
Meanwhile, guests at Discovery Coron experienced a magical evening of festive tunes, Polynesian-inspired dances, and a sumptuous buffet dinner at Firefish Restaurant. Celebrity guest Sam Pinto and her daughter Mia joined the celebration, adding a special touch to the tree-lighting festivities. Live music by the Center Stage Band carried the evening into an atmosphere of joyful cheer.
In Davao, Discovery Samal invites you to step into a Whimsical Dreamland—a breathtaking transformation that turns the resort into a spectacular holiday escape filled with enchantment and joy.
The event kicked off with a grand parade led by a Drum and Lyre ensemble, with performers in colorful costumes bringing the carnival to life. Guests were treated to stirring musical performances by multi-gold medalists JETZ Tacsanan and Alexis Ritz Labaya by Muzic’sKool. At the heart of this magical celebration is a life-sized gingerbread castle, surrounded by dazzling installations that serve as the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable holiday memories.
The spirit of a carnival comes alive as Discovery Samal brings people together to share laughter, celebrate life, and bask in the joy of the holidays. With a sense of wonder and playfulness, Whimsical Dreamland is Discovery Samal’s way of embracing the festive season.
The lighting of the tree was accompanied with an array of delectable holiday treats and enchanting Christmas-inspired culinary delights, the evening unfolded like a dream. A spellbinding musical performance set the tone, culminating in a magical journey through Discovery Samal’s Whimsical Dreamland. At its heart stood a breathtaking life-sized gingerbread castle, surrounded by festive installations that created the perfect backdrop for capturing the wonder of the holiday season.
The ceremonies celebrated not just the joy of the season but also the values of kindness and giving back. Each property featured unique entertainment, local partnerships, and opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in the spirit of Christmas.
Discovery Boracay, Discovery Coron, and Discovery Samal are offering a variety of holiday packages to make this season even more special for you and your family. For more information, visit each property’s websites: discoveryboracay.com for Discovery Boracay, discoverycoron.com for Discovery Coron, and discoverysamal.com for Discovery Samal.
Fans of The Chosen were overjoyed on November 22, 2023, as Jonathan Roumie, renowned for his portrayal of Jesus Christ in the global hit series, made his much-anticipated visit to the Philippines. From press events to a teal-carpet fan gathering, Roumie’s warmth and faith captivated audiences, leaving an unforgettable mark on local hearts.
An Inspirational Day at BGC
The visit kicked off at Shangri-La The Fort, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), where Roumie engaged in interviews and press discussions. Sharing his experiences of embodying Christ and the profound impact of the show, he left the media inspired by his humility and eloquence.
Jonathan ROumie with Virlanie Voices
Teal-Carpet Magic at SM Megamall
The excitement escalated at SM Megamall, where fans eagerly awaited Roumie’s arrival at the teal carpet premiere of Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night. Roumie greeted supporters with a beaming smile, posing for photos and signing autographs.
The evening’s atmosphere was electric, with fans dressed as their favorite characters from the series. The event featured a live performance by the Virlanie Voices choir and exclusive fan experiences, setting the stage for the special screening.
The Premiere of Christmas with The Chosen
The night culminated with the debut of Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night. Featuring inspiring performances from global gospel artists, including The Feast Worship, the special celebrates the nativity story with music and reverence. Exclusively opening in SM Cinemas on December 11, tickets are now available for pre-booking.
Roumie expressed his gratitude to Filipino fans:
“Salamat! Thank you Philippines. We couldn’t make this show without your support, without your passion.”
He teased the fans about the upcoming Season 5, which will premiere in April 2025: “Your heads are gonna pop off when you see what we did. It’s gonna be so intense and beautiful and a little bit of heartbreak as well. You can always expect a good cry when you sit down to watch a season of The Chosen. So, Season 5 will be no less intense, no less joyful, no less heartbreaking than season 4. Each season, we try to give more than what we gave from the previous season, the show gets a little bit bigger. God just seems to be bringing us through the series in a way that is profound and mysterious and I really hope you enjoy it this coming Easter.”
“I am thrilled to see everyone here for this event. I have been a solid Chosen follower since the very beginning, actually during the pandemic. I am really really blessed that they are here to a nation that has been hungry for the Lord. And the series resonates so well with me because and, I can’t wait to make Jonathan know this, but ever since I was a child, the way I’ve always felt Jesus talking to me is exactly the way Jonathan portrays Him to be. You know, very tender, but very firm, very loving but with authority with every word that he says. That resonates with me really well because I’ve also been given a chance to speak with other young people and I do try my best to bring Jesus into their lives in a way that is different, in a way that would make them feel how precious they are to Jesus. You know, Jesus was human, and that’s what you see in The Chosen. Life changing, there were times I have to pause (when watching) and just realize the goodness of God presented this way for the world. I think it’s great, and what the world needs right now. And with social media being so much a part of our mind, I think The Chosen can be a part of our hearts,”
Fans of all ages, including those with disabilities, emphasized how The Chosen has touched their lives, loyal fans who unabashedly said their presence in the event was an answer to a prayer.
A Global Phenomenon: The Chosen
The Chosen reimagines the life of Jesus Christ through the eyes of those closest to Him. With over 253 million viewers worldwide, the series continues to break barriers as a crowd-funded success story.
Fans can watch the series across major streaming platforms or via the official app and website at watch.thechosen.tv.
Jonathan Roumie
Roumie’s Final Message to Filipinos
“Continue to be a culture of faith,” Roumie encouraged. “You inspire the world by putting God above all. God bless you, Philippines!”
As The Chosen gains momentum globally, Roumie’s visit highlighted its universal message of hope, love, and humanity—an experience Filipinos will cherish for years to come.
This holiday season, Jollibee is once again going all-out in spreading Christmas cheer across the Philippines by transforming select branches into “Joyful Christmas Stores.” For the second year in a row, the quick service restaurant chain is inviting families and friends to visit their brightly lit and merrily decorated stores as they celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
True to the brand’s goal of making this the “Pasko-est” season for Filipinos, the Joyful Christmas Stores leveled up by going from just a hundred stores last year to over 240 participating stores nationwide this year, ready to welcome customers and serve them their jolly favorites this Holiday season. Store teams went all out with their decorations, adding a touch of local flavor and using designs elements unique to each province or location.
To make it easier for customers to find these Joyful Christmas Stores, and maybe even encourage them to visit as many stores as they can, Jollibee will soon be launching the Jolly Christmas Tours—a digital map powered by Google that showcases all Jollibee stores that feature unique Christmas displays. Select stores will also have activations like the JoyZone, an innovative, interactive experience that transforms smiles into delightful rewards, and the Coke Christmas Trucks, done in partnership with Coca Cola Philippines.
“Christmas is more than just a holiday for Filipinos—it’s a time when people go the extra mile to make joyful memories and create meaningful connections with loved ones. From festive reunions to thoughtful gifts, everything about Christmas in the Philippines is all-out. This is why we at Jollibee also went all-out in helping make this season the Pasko-est for our customers through our Joyful Christmas Stores,” said Dorothy Dee-Ching, VP-Marketing of Jollibee Philippines.
In an event at Jollibee España Don Quijote on November 28, Jollibee celebrated and showcased its Pasko-est initiatives alongside media and other distinguished guests. Jollibee celebrity endorsers Maja Salvador, Joshua Garcia, and Belle Mariano, plus TV personality and host Robi Domingo, all made the evening more enjoyable with their Christmas stories. Content creators like the Blackman Family and Kitty and Kakai Almeda also joined the festivities and enjoyed the bright lights and colorful displays of the store.
From delicious food, jolly mascots, and the overall experience in its stores, Jollibee enables Pinoys to make each moment the Pasko-est it can be this season, bringing not only the best in taste, but also the best in joy.
For more updates and news on exciting Christmas promos, like Jollibee on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Philippines on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on X, Instagram, and TikTok.
Hollywood meets Korea in the high-octane spy thriller “Tempest,” featuring an all-star cast led by Gang Dongwon and Jun Gianna, streaming exclusively on Disney+ next year.
Jun Gianna
A Star-Studded Cast on a Global Mission
Disney+ has revealed an exciting roster of Hollywood and Korean talent for its upcoming spy thriller Tempest. Joining Korean icons Gang Dongwon (Peninsula) and Jun Gianna (My Love From The Star), the lineup boasts an array of Hollywood heavyweights, including:
John Cho (Star Trek) as the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State
Michael Gaston (Spenser Confidential) as the Secretary of Defense
Spencer Garrett (Air Force One) as U.S. President Hauser
Christopher Gorham (The Lincoln Lawyer) as a military contractor
Also confirmed are Joel De La Fuente (The Man In The High Castle), Alicia Hannah-Kim (Cobra Kai), Brooke Smith(Silence of the Lambs), Jacob Bertrand (Cobra Kai), Romy Rosemont (Barry), and Tom Lenk (American Horror Stories), among others.
John Cho
A Thrilling Storyline Packed with Suspense
Set in modern-day Korea, Tempest follows diplomat Seo Munju (Jun Gianna), a former UN ambassador, and international special agent Sanho (Gang Dongwon) as they unravel a dangerous conspiracy threatening peace on the Korean peninsula.
Gang’s portrayal of the enigmatic, secretive agent Sanho and Jun’s razor-sharp intellect as Seo Munju promise to deliver a captivating dynamic. With espionage, political intrigue, and action at its core, Tempest is poised to be an unmissable series.
Gang Dongwon
Behind the Scenes: A World-Class Creative Team
Directed by Kim Heewon (Queen of Tears, Vincenzo) and co-directed by martial arts maestro Heo Myunghaeng (The Outlaws 4), Tempest boasts a gripping script by Chung Seokyung (Decision to Leave, The Handmaiden). This collaboration ensures viewers can expect edge-of-the-seat drama paired with cinematic excellence.
The Year Ahead for Disney+ Korean Dramas
Tempest isn’t the only title sparking excitement. Disney+’s 2025 slate includes:
The Murky Stream with Rowoon and Shin Yeeun
The Manipulated starring Ji Changwook and Doh Kyungsoo
Unmasked with Kim Hyesoo (January)
Hyper Knife featuring Park Eunbin (March)
Highly anticipated titles like Nine Puzzles (Kim Dami), Knock-Off(Kim Soohyun), and Low Life (Ryu Seungryong).
When to Watch
Tempest debuts in 2025, exclusively on Disney+. Prepare for a gripping tale that unites Hollywood and Korean stars in a masterful blend of action, mystery, and global intrigue.
Health experts are raising concerns over meningococcal disease in the Philippines, with Serogroup B as the leading cause of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) and accounting for approximately 68% of cases over the recent years.1
Pediatric infectious disease specialists Dr. Lulu Bravo and Dr. Anna Ong-Lim emphasize that IMD poses a severe health risk, particularly if left untreated.[2] In the Philippines, one in every two (50%) of IMD case may result in death.[3] Young children are at the highest risk, and the disease can progress rapidly, often proving fatal within just 24 hours.3 Symptoms can escalate from nonspecific early signs to a critical state in a very short time frame.4
IMD is a life-threatening disease especially for young children3
IMD is caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis commonly found in the nose and throat.[4] It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can also be transmitted through salivary exchange, such as sharing utensils or drinking from the same container.5
Dr. Anna Ong-Lim explains that “Symptoms of IMD typically include fever, headache, stiff neck, and nausea. As the infection progresses, individuals may develop a rash, sensitivity to light, and confusion.4 IMD manifests as either meningitis,[5] which causes inflammation around the brain and spinal cord, or meningococcal sepsis,6 where the bacteria enter the bloodstream, leading to fever and rash.4 Both conditions require immediate medical attention, as IMD is a rapidly progressing,4 life-threatening illness with a high mortality rate if untreated.”3
The Neisseria meningitidis[5] being the most common causes of disease.7 A key concern with meningococcal bacteria is that different types are more[6] than others, and these patterns can change over time.8 More international travel to areas where certain types are widespread[7] can bring these rarer types into new places.9,[9],[10]
Serogroup B is the leading cause of meningococcal disease in the Philippines[11]
“In the Philippines, all laboratory-confirmed cases of IMD, including those linked to Serogroup B,[12] are monitored through the Philippine Integrated Disease Surveillance Response (PIDSR) System”12 says Dr. Lulu Bravo. “Asymptomatic carriers—those who carry the bacteria without showing symptoms[13]— can spread the disease, underscoring the need for more data to strengthen prevention programs” warns Dr. Bravo. “By doing so, we can give more than half of young children who contract this disease a chance to avoid the life-altering effects of IMD,” she stresses.
Meningococcal diseases can be prevented
IMD can progress rapidly, often within hours. “IMD requires immediate medical attention, as it can quickly become a life-threatening illness with a high mortality rate if left untreated,”3 Dr. Ong-Lim adds. “Prevention is our best line of defense against the devastating effects of meningococcal disease.”
Vaccines targeting different meningococcal serogroups play a vital role in prevention. Conjugate vaccines are available for multiple serogroups, such as A, C, W, and Y. Meanwhile, Serogroup B, due to its distinct bacterial structure, requires a separate vaccine.[14]
Health experts strongly urge parents to consult with their healthcare providers on how to best protect their children against invasive meningococcal disease. Understanding the risks, symptoms, and prevention options can be lifesaving. Ask your healthcare provider about how you can safeguard young children who are at higher risk against this serious and fast-acting disease.
About GSK
GSK is a global biopharma company with a purpose to unite science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together. Find out more at gsk.com/company.
GSK cautions investors that any forward-looking statements or projections made by GSK, including those made in this announcement, are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Such factors include, but are not limited to, those described under Item 3.D ‘Principal risks and uncertainties’ in the company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for 2019.
[1] The graph was independently created by GSK from the original data. National Reference Laboratory for Invasive Vaccine-Preventable Bacterial Diseases – Research Institute for Tropical Medicine as presented at the Philippine Children’s Medical Center Postgraduate Course, September 17, 2024 [2] Rosenstein, N. E., Perkins, B. A., Popovic , T., & Hughes, J. M. (n.d.). Meningococcal disease. The New England journal of medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11333996/ [3] Thompson, M., Ninis, N., Perera, R., Mayon-White, R., Phillips, C., Bailey, L., Harnden, A., Mant, D., & Levin, M. (n.d.). Clinical recognition of meningococcal disease in children and adolescents. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16458763/ [4] Kimberline, D., Long, S., Brady, M., & Jackson, M. (n.d.). Red Book 2018: Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases [31 ed.] 1610021460, 9781610021463. Retrieved from https://dokumen.pub/red-book-2018-report-of-the-committee-on-infectious-diseases-31nbsped-1610021460-9781610021463.html [5] Invasive meningococcal disease – annual epidemiological report for 2015. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. (2017, November). Retrieved from https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/invasive-meningococcal-disease-annual-epidemiological-report-2015 [6] World Health Organization. (2023, April). Meningitis. World Health Organization. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/meningitis [7] Harrison, L., Trotter, C., & Ramsay, M. (2009, May). Global epidemiology of meningococcal disease. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19477562/ [8] Wilder-Smith, A. (2009, May). Meningococcal vaccine in travelers. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19477562/ [9] Sáfadi, M. A. (2013). Epidemiology of invasive meningococcal disease. Epidemiology and Infection, 141, 447–458. [10] Davidesen, T., & Tonjum, T. (2006, January). Meningococcal genome dynamics. Nature Reviews Microbiology. Retrieved from https://www.nature.com/articles/nrmicro1324 [11] Aye, A., Bai, X., Borrow, R., Veeraraghan, B., Yazil, S., Zhui, B., Dai, V., Dinleyici, E.. Ghimere, P., Handryastuti, S., Heo, J., Jennison, A., Kamiya, H., Sia, L., Lucidarme, J., Marshall, H., Putri, N., Saha, S., Shao, Z., Sim, J., Smith, V., Taha, M., Thanh, P., Thisyakorn, U., Thsering, K., Vazquez, J., Veeraraghavan, B., Yezil, S., & Zhu, B., (2020, November). Meningococcal disease surveillance in the Asia–Pacific region (2020): The global meningococcal initiative. Journal of Infection. Retrived from https://www.journalofinfection.com/article/S0163-4453(20)30506-5/fulltext [12] 2021-PCHRD-annual-REPORT.pdf. (n.d.-a). Retrieved from https://www.pchrd.dost.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2021-PCHRD-ANNUAL-REPORT.pdf [13] Gonzales, M. L. A., Bianco, V., & Vyse, A. (2017, January). Meningococcal carriage in children and Young Adults in the Philippines: A Single Group, cross-sectional study. Epidemiology and infection. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9507336/
In an exciting new featurette, director Kenji Kamiyama takes fans behind the scenes of the highly anticipated anime film, The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim. “By delving into the past and maintaining that connection, I believed we could add depth to the film,” says director Kenji Kamiyama about the highly anticipated original anime feature “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim,” in a newly released featurette about the film. “This approach also allowed new stories to emerge.”
The film explores the untold saga of the legendary King Helm Hammerhand of Rohan, voiced by acclaimed actor Brian Cox (Succession). Facing a relentless siege by Wulf, a cunning and vengeful Dunlending lord brought to life by Luke Pasqualino (Snowpiercer), Helm and his people make their final stand at the fortress of the Hornburg—later known as Helm’s Deep. The story also introduces Helm’s daughter, Héra (Gaia Wise), a resilient young leader who rises to protect her people against overwhelming odds.
Anime Meets Tolkien: A Perfect Pairing
As an esteemed anime filmmaker known for works like Blade Runner: Black Lotus and Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, Kamiyama believes anime is uniquely suited to Tolkien’s world. “When you are entering into the world of animation, you have a certain agreement with the audience that it is make-believe,” he shares. “It’s a fantastic medium to depict fantasy and science fiction, where the world itself is already imagined.”
The Legacy of Tolkien Lives On
Actress Gaia Wise, who voices Héra, reflects on the timeless appeal of The Lord of the Rings. “These stories are about human nature, kindness, love, and resilience—things that speak to our souls,” she says. Wise, a lifelong fan of Tolkien, believes his stories resonate with every generation. “The world he created is so dramatic, beautiful, and heartfelt, and I think it will always captivate people.”
Behind the scenes, the creative team includes Oscar winners Philippa Boyens and Richard Taylor, alongside Tolkien illustrator John Howe, ensuring the film stays true to the spirit of Middle-earth.
Mark Your Calendar: December 11
The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim opens in cinemas on December 11, offering fans a stunning new perspective on Tolkien’s timeless world. Don’t miss this chance to journey back to Middle-earth.
