Kang Full, the creative genius behind the hit K-Drama Moving, returns with another mesmerizing tale Lightshop Keeper. This Disney+ original series invites viewers into a mysterious world where six strangers converge at a light shop hidden at the end of a shadowy alley. As the boundaries between the living and the dead blur, secrets unravel in a genre-bending story filled with suspense, heart, and Kang Full’s signature touch.
Starring South Korean superstars Ju Jihoon and Park Boyoung, this highly anticipated series is set to captivate fans with its rich storytelling and unforgettable characters.
From Webtoon Visionary to Global Icon
Kang Full’s journey began long before the world discovered his exceptional talent. A pioneer in webtoons, he first made waves in 2002 by self-publishing his works online, redefining how stories were told in the digital age. With his unique blend of supernatural intrigue and deeply human themes, Kang Full’s creations quickly found a loyal fanbase.
In 2023, he achieved international acclaim with Moving, a Disney+ series that became a cultural phenomenon and solidified his reputation as one of the greatest storytellers in K-Drama history.
The Magic of Kang Full’s Storytelling
What sets Kang Full apart is his ability to weave intricate plots with relatable, multidimensional characters. Whether it’s the extraordinary individuals of Moving, the eerie inhabitants of Apartment, or the time-warping heroes of Timing, his narratives transcend genres to explore profound themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption.
At their core, Kang Full’s stories are about humanity—our fears, hopes, and the connections that bind us together. Even in fantastical settings, his characters grapple with universal struggles, making his tales resonate across cultures and audiences.
A New Adventure: Lightshop Keeper
In Lightshop Keeper, Kang Full once again showcases his unparalleled storytelling prowess. This gripping 8-episode series delves into the lives of six strangers who stumble upon a mystical light shop. As they confront their deepest struggles, they find themselves in a world suspended between life and death.
The series stars Ju Jihoon as a man caught in the throes of his own miseries and Park Boyoung as a woman whose life seems worlds apart but is destined to intertwine with his. Together, their journey uncovers the mysteries of the light shop and the truths that could set them free.
Why Lightshop Keeper Should Be Your Next Binge-Watch
With its compelling narrative, stellar cast, and Kang Full’s unmatched ability to blend fantasy and emotion, Lightshop Keeper promises an unforgettable viewing experience. Fans of Moving and new audiences alike will be drawn into this spellbinding world where every twist and turn reveals something deeply human.
Ready to embark on a journey that blurs the lines between reality and the supernatural? Don’t miss Kang Full’s latest masterpiece, Lightshop Keeper, now streaming exclusively on Disney+. Let the light guide you to a world of mystery, magic, and redemption. WatchLightshop Keeper now!
24 years after the first film, ‘Gladiator II’ follows the story of the son of the protagonist of the first film played by Russell Crowe, who was sent away to save his life from those who wish to kill him as he is sole heir to the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius after Marcus Aurelius has passed on. Sixteen years after the death of the emperor, twin brothers have taken rule, Geta and Caracalla, and they do so with debauchery, violence, and corruption. Hidden away in the African city of Numidia, Lucius Verus Aurelius, now called Hanno, lives a peaceful life with his wife. But the emperor twins have spread Rome’s influence and they have sent their general Acacius to take Numidia. During the siege, Hanno loses his wife and is taken as a slave where he is bought by the gladiator stable owner Macrinus. Macrinus sees Hanno’s potential due to his rage and uses him as a weapon against Rome while all Hanno wants is revenge against Acacius. What Hanno doesn’t know is that his mother, Lucilla is now married to Acacius and is secretly plotting to overthrow the emperor twins and return Rome to its former glory.
It’s a huge complicated plot with so many moving parts and yet, none of it feels terribly important. The whole film’s story runs through in less than a week and most of the big ideas about Rome and righteousness are left as lines of dialogue and never really given their due. Instead, the camera is focused on the brutality of this era of Rome and the debauchery of its rulers and the complacency of its senate. It speaks of ideals that never really takes a concrete form in any scene. They are all just stories the characters tell each other before they have to fight again in the arena.
Paul Mescal plays Lucius and Pedro Pascal plays Marcus Acacius in Gladiator II from Paramount Pictures.
It’s the fight scenes that director Ridley Scott really takes his time to put together. The siege of Numidia has a rhythm and an imagery that’s just enjoyable to watch on the big screen. It’s the epic, historical war scenes that can ignite the imaginations of those who love these big spectacles of violence. And then he pares it down in the arena but since he’s already done that in the first movie, he spices things up this time with a gladiator riding a rhinoceros and a naval battle, which is recorded fact. Yes, they used to fill the Coliseum with water and reenact naval battles for entertainment. Of course, Scott had to put it here.
Gladiator II from Paramount Pictures.
Funnily enough, I found no lasting joy in any of it. This is a world that is suffering from imperial forces the way Numidia suffered at the start of ‘Gladiator II.’ This a world that is rife with war and people dying for some stupid notion of other governments and to see it on screen in this manner, regardless of any sort of historical authenticity felt very strange to me, a person living in a developing country whose nation is constantly in the crossfires of larger countries own ambitions. The film talks about the “dream of Rome” that is supposed to be a beacon of civility and a way forward but not at all cognizant that this is the same rhetoric that the United States have used to attack Middle Eastern states in the name of world order. The emperor twins became an obvious symbolism of the decadent reign of that countries former president, who is returning to the seat of power and the film is a call to bring him down. It’s hard to find empathy with the big concepts the film tries to juggle, especially when it seems more inclined to find joy in the brutality of the film’s title.
Denzel Washington plays Macrinus, Pedro Pascal plays General Acacius and Connie Nielsen plays Lucilla in Gladiator II from Paramount Pictures.
It doesn’t help that Hanno is not the most interesting of characters. Even with Paul Mescal at the helm, Hanno is written without any warmth or charm. After his wife dies, he embraces any chance at death (so he can be with her) but also revels in the violence to come because he’s promised by Macrinus that he’ll get a chance to go toe-to-toe with Acacius if he does well. That’s all there is to his character and it’s kind of hard to latch on to, especially when Lucilla (Connie Nielsen) and Acacius (Pedro Pascal) are talking about reinvigorating Rome’s classical ideals. When the film does try to redeem him by the third act, the script of David Scarpa has spent no time in preparing him for that shift. He has one moment with Acacius and then he dramatically becomes Lucius just like that.
Denzel Washington plays Macrinus in Gladiator II from Paramount Pictures.
The only character that’s actually fun to watch is Denzel Washington’s Macrinus and Denzel obviously was having a lot of fun with him too. Washington plays the full range of Macrinus’ character, manipulating senators and even the emperor twins, luring Hanno into a partnership, and reveling in the character’s bisexuality; every move Washington does is fun to watch. And when he talks about why he wants Rome to fall, it actually makes more sense than any of the sanctimonious allegories the film makes with America’s own ideas of itself.
Sure, there are big fight scenes (not all of the same consistency) but some of the CGI effects are distracting (especially the sharks) while any attempt at making a rallying cry for “courage and honour” feels shallow or empty. This film feels like it came out ten years too late.
My Rating:
Gladiator II is now in cinemas! Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.
TUDOR BLACK BAY FIFTY-EIGHT BRONZE BOUTIQUE EDITION
TUDOR presents a bronze version of its famous Black Bay Fifty-Eight model, featuring for the first time a bronze bracelet fitted with a new clasp with rapid adjustment system.
Bolstered by its experience using bronze, TUDOR continues its exploration of this emblematic material with its characteristic ageing, boldly opting for a total bronze look. A new colour palette, based on a rich “brown-bronze” tone, adorns the dial and bezel of a divers’ watch whose naval inspiration can be seen in every detail. A timepiece with an uncompromising design, available exclusively in around fifty TUDOR boutiques throughout the world, the Black Bay Fifty-Eight Bronze model also offers high technical performance thanks to its Manufacture Calibre MT5400.
KEY POINTS
39 mm satin-brushed bronze case whose colour evolves to match its user’s habits
Shaded matt “brown-bronze” dial with applied hour markers and Arabic numerals at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock
Manufacture Calibre MT5400, certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) with a hairspring in silicon and a 70-hour power reserve
“Snowflake” hands, one of the hallmarks of the TUDOR divers’ watches introduced in 1969, with grade A Swiss phosphorescent Super-LumiNova® coating
Bronze bracelet with TUDOR “T-fit” clasp with rapid adjustment and an complimentary “brown-bronze” jacquard fabric strap included
A CASE THAT “CHANGES”
The characteristic elements of the new Black Bay Fifty-Eight model are a 39 mm bronze case, an aesthetic nod to the bronzes on old ships and other deep-sea diving equipment, but also the characteristic proportions of the first TUDOR divers’ watches dating from the second half of the 1950s, particularly the famous 7924 reference or “Big Crown”, the first TUDOR watch to be waterproof to 200 metres (660 ft), presented in 1958.
The choice of a “living” metal – in this case a high-performance aluminium bronze alloy used particularly in naval engineering for submerged parts required to demonstrate a high level of resistance to corrosion such as propellers, for example – ensures the development of a subtle and unique patina on the case of every watch to match its user’s habits. In addition to a highly functional appearance, in line with the naval world to which it pays tribute, the Black Bay Bronze presents entirely satin-brushed finishes that guarantee the homogeneous development of this patina.
The combination of a domed dial in matt “brown-bronze”, shaded concentrically from the exterior towards the centre, and a bezel presenting the same gold accents found on the hands and hour markers, completes the face of this model. The overall visual effect is of a rich, patinated object that might have battled the waves of the seven seas for years on its owner’s wrist, and which is “made” for them and their lifestyle.
THE ORIGINS OF TUDOR BRONZE
Bronze is an alloy with properties that differ to those of stainless steel and as such, the craftsmanship required to produce a watch case is as unique as it is spectacular. Once the aluminium bronze alloy has been produced, the bronze used by TUDOR is made into bars, which in turn are cut into slugs, small cylinders of material a few centimetres in length. The slugs are then heated to a high temperature before being stamped individually while hot using a friction screw press, applying a pressure of many tonnes. With this single operation, as soon as it emerges from the furnace, this cylinder of raw material instantly adopts the rough form of the watch middle case.
From this point, no fewer than forty additional steps are required to obtain a bronze case that is ready to be cased up. Successive machining processes create the final shape and craft the functional parts of the case such as the threading or drilling, as well as the finishes, or the steps required to give the surfaces their final appearance, produced by machine or by hand. It is further complicated by the fact that bronze is a material whose appearance evolves rapidly according to its environment, so all these manufacturing operations, as well as the assembly and final tests of the Black Bay Fifty-Eight Bronze model are carried out with meticulous care. All handling must be carried out using gloves and according to a specific workflow, particularly for waterproofness tests, between which each watch is entirely dried in order to preserve its new, non-patinated appearance.
NEW BRONZE BRACELET
While TUDOR has been exploring bronze in its collection for several years, the Black Bay Fifty-Eight Bronze model marks the first time that the brand has produced a bracelet entirely from bronze. Its satin-brushed links adopting the style of TUDOR bracelets of the 1950s and ’60s, with rivets, are coordinated with the case and will develop a patina at the same pace. A new bronze clasp, also satin-brushed, with a redesigned cover and TUDOR “T-fit” rapid adjustment system for the length, completes the total bronze look. Easy to use, requiring no tools and offering 5 positions, this practical system allows wearers of the Black Bay Fifty-Eight Bronze to carry out a fine, instant adjustment on an adjustment window along the entire length of the 8 mm bracelet.
COMPLIMENTARY FABRIC STRAP
In the spirit of an aesthetic tribute to the brand’s naval heritage, TUDOR presents a free complimentary strap with its Black Bay Fifty-Eight Bronze model. The brand has identified the historic uses of its watches and reinterpreted them in its latest models. For several decades the French Navy had TUDOR watches delivered without bracelets and then fitted them with their own straps, handmade or otherwise. One of them, found on a period diving watch and conserved in the brand archives, is made of elastic recovered from a French rescue parachute. It is to this ultra-functional relic, recognisable by its central yellow thread, that the “brown-bronze” woven jacquard strap alludes.
The fabric strap is one of the hallmarks of TUDOR, which, in 2010, became one of the first watchmaking brands to offer it with its products. Woven in France on 19th century Jacquard looms by the Julien Faure company in the St-Etienne region, its manufacturing quality and comfort on the wrist are unique. In 2020, TUDOR and Julien Faure, a 150-year old family company, celebrated ten years of a partnership that existed before the Heritage Chrono – the first model to be equipped with a fabric strap created by the craftsman – was launched in 2010. A fine anniversary for an enduring collaboration built on outstanding expertise.
THE MANUFACTURE CALIBRE MT5400
The Manufacture Calibre MT5400, which equips the Black Bay Fifty-Eight Bronze, displays hour, minute and second functions. It has the finish typical of TUDOR Manufacture Calibres: Its rotor in tungsten monobloc is openwork and satin-brushed with sand-blasted details, and its bridges and mainplate have alternate sand-blasted, polished surfaces and laser decorations.
Its build has been designed to ensure robustness, longevity, reliability and precision, as has its variable inertia balance, which is maintained by a sturdy traversing bridge with a two-point fixation. Together with its non-magnetic silicon hairspring, the ManufactureCalibre MT5400 is certified as a chronometer by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), with its performance going beyond the standards set by this independent institute. In fact, where COSC allows an average variation in the daily running of a watch of between -4 and +6 seconds in relation to absolute time in a single movement, TUDOR insists on between -2 and +4 seconds’ variation in its running when it is completely assembled.
Another notable feature is that the power reserve of the Manufacture Calibre MT5400 is “weekend-proof”; that is to say about 70 hours, which enables the wearer to take the watch off on a Friday evening and put it back on again on Monday morning without having to reset it.
THE ESSENCE OF BLACK BAY
Like other models in the Black Bay line, the Black Bay Fifty-Eight Bronze model features a dial inspired by the TUDOR divers’ watches produced during the 1950s. It adopts the characteristic angular hands known to collectors as “Snowflake” that appeared in the brand’s 1969 catalogue. Finally, its unprotected crown, as well as the holes of the bars that pass through the horns are typical of the first generations of TUDOR divers’ watches.
The Black Bay line is the result of subtle combinations of historical aesthetic codes and contemporary watchmaking. Far from simply being an identical re-release of a classic, it brings together over 60 years of TUDOR divers’ watches at the same time as being resolutely anchored in the present. Whilst it is neo-vintage in conception, its manufacturing techniques, reliability, robustness and the quality of its finish are consistent with today’s more rigorous requirements.
THE TUDOR DIVERS’ WATCH
The history of the TUDOR divers’ watch dates back to 1954 with the launch of reference 7922. Waterproof to 100 metres (330 ft), it is the firstborn in a long line of “divers”. Affordable, robust, reliable and precise, it is representative of the philosophy of a tool-watch of the brand. The seven decades following its introduction have witnessed the constant improvement of this TUDOR divers’ watch and those that have gained unanimous acclaim from professionals in the field, including some of the greatest military navies in the world.
THE TUDOR GUARANTEE
Since its creation by Hans Wilsdorf in 1926, and in line with his vision of an ideal watchmaking product, TUDOR has never stopped producing the most robust, durable, reliable and precise watches possible. Bolstered by this experience, and confident in the knowledge of the superior quality of its watches, TUDOR is offering a five-year guarantee on all its products sold after 1 January 2020. This guarantee does not require the watch to be registered, or any maintenance checks, and is transferable. All TUDOR products bought between 1 July 2018 and 31 December 2019 will therefore benefit from an 18-month extension to their guarantee, that is to say, a total of three and a half years. (TUDOR also recommends having a watch serviced approximately every 10 years, depending on the model and daily usage).
BLACK BAY 58 18K
TUDOR introduces a bold version of its popular model, the Black Bay 58, in 18 ct yellow gold with an open case back, Manufacture Calibre and now a solid gold bracelet, complete with “T-fit” clasp.
The name Black Bay 58 18K is, of course, a reference to the precious metal of its case and bracelet, but also to 1958, the year in which the first TUDOR divers’ watch waterproof to 200 metres (660 ft), reference 7924 or “Big Crown”, was introduced. The Black Bay 58 18K is also the first TUDOR divers’ watch to be made in 18 ct solid yellow gold, offered with an open case back. And now it comes with a matching all satin-finished 18 ct yellow gold bracelet to boot.
KEY POINTS
39mm case with satin finish in 18 ct yellow gold with an open case back
Subtly domed matt “golden green” dial with applied hour markers in 18 ct yellow gold
“Snowflake” hands, a hallmark of TUDOR divers’ watches introduced in 1969, in 18 ct yellow gold, with Grade A Swiss Super-LumiNova® luminescent material
Manufacture Calibre MT5400, certified by the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) with a hairspring in silicon and a 70-hour power reserve
Five-year transferable guarantee, with no registration or periodic maintenance checks required
MATT GOLD AND “GOLDEN GREEN” TONES
Entirely satin-finished for a matt effect, the 18 ct yellow gold case of the Black Bay 58 18K is another first for a TUDOR divers’ watch. An open case back, which reveals the new Manufacture Calibre MT5400, has not been offered by the brand before for this type of product and reinforces the dual aesthetic language of this model. Midway between the legacy of a robust tool-watch that still defines TUDOR and a precious object, the Black Bay 58 18K remains as rare as it is exclusive. The matt 18 ct yellow gold of the Black Bay 58 18K is emphasised by the combination of dial and bezel, which are a rich “golden green” in tone with matt gold details. The “Snowflake” hands are also in 18 ct yellow gold, as are the applied hour markers.
SOLID GOLD BRACELET
Another first for a TUDOR diving watch, the Black Bay 58 18K now comes with a solid gold 3-link bracelet featuring the TUDOR “T-fit” clasp, an ingenuous system for rapid length adjustment. Easy to use, requiring no tools and offering five positions, this practical touch allows wearers to carry out a fine, instant adjustment of the total length of the bracelet along an adjustment window of 8mm. The clasp features ceramic ball bearings that ensure a smooth and secure closure in addition to adding a pleasing tactile element to the action of the clasp.
THE MANUFACTURE CALIBRE MT5400
The Manufacture Calibre MT5400, which powers the Black Bay 58 18K, displays hour, minute and second functions. It has the finish typical of TUDOR ManufactureCalibres: its rotor in tungsten monobloc is openwork and satin-brushed with sand-blasted details, and its bridges and mainplate have alternate sand-blasted and polished surfaces and laser decorations.The build of the Manufacture Calibre MT5400 is designed to ensure robustness and precision. To do this, the variable inertia balance wheel is maintained by a sturdy traversing bridge with two-point anchoring. It is certified as a chronometer by the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), with its performance going beyond the standards set by this independent institute. In fact, where COSC allows an average variation in the daily rate of an uncased movement of between -4 and +6 seconds, TUDOR applies a 6-second (-2/+4) variation standard on its fully assembled watches with Manufacture Calibres.
Another notable feature is that the power reserve of the Manufacture CalibreMT5400 is “weekend-proof”; that is to say about 70 hours, which enables the wearer to take the watch off on a Friday evening and put it back on again on Monday morning without having to reset it.
THE ESSENCE OF BLACK BAY
The Black Bay line features dials inspired by the TUDOR divers’ watches produced during the 1950s. It borrows the characteristic angular hands known to collectors as “Snowflake” from models that appeared in the brand’s 1969 catalogue. Its shoulderless crown and the characteristics of its case are reminiscent of the first generations of TUDOR divers’ watches.
The Black Bay line is the result of the subtle blend of traditional aesthetics and contemporary watchmaking. Far from simply being an identical re-release of a classic, it brings together 70 years of TUDOR dive watches, whilst at the same time being resolutely anchored in the present. It is neo-vintage in conception, yet its manufacturing techniques, reliability, robustness and the quality of its finishes are consistent with today’s more rigorous requirements.
THE TUDOR MANUFACTURE
Every TUDOR watch is assembled and fully tested to TUDOR’s superior standards at the new TUDOR Manufacture located in the Le Locle, Switzerland. This new state-of-the-art facility, bringing together the know-how of watchmakers with the best in production management and automated testing systems, was completed in 2021 after three years of construction. All decked out in TUDOR red, the Manufacture spans over four levels totalling 5,500 square meters and is physically and visually connected to the neighbouring Kenissi Manufacture, the TUDOR movement production facility founded in 2016. With Kenissi and a network of TUDOR-owned affiliates, the brand has been able to integrate the development and production of high-performance mechanical calibres. As a consequence, TUDOR now fully masters the manufacturing of strategic components and can guarantee their quality.
THE TUDOR GUARANTEE
Since the brand’s creation by Hans Wilsdorf in 1926 and in line with his vision of the ideal timepiece, TUDOR has been ceaselessly creating watches that are as robust, durable, reliable and precise as possible. On the strength of this experience, and confident in the superior quality of its watches, TUDOR offers a five-year guarantee for all its products. This guarantee does not require the watch to be registered or submitted to periodic checks and is transferable. TUDOR also recommends that its watches should be serviced approximately every ten years depending on the model and the extent of its use on a day-to-day basis.
TUDOR IS “BORN TO DARE”
In 2017, TUDOR launched a new campaign with the “Born To Dare” signature. It reflects both the history of the brand and what it stands for today. It tells the adventures of individuals who have achieved the extraordinary on land, on ice, in the air and underwater, with a TUDOR watch on their wrists. It also refers to the vision of Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of TUDOR, who manufactured TUDOR watches to withstand the most extreme conditions, watches made for the most daring lifestyles. It is testimony to TUDOR’s singular approach to watchmaking, which has made it what it is today. At the cutting edge of the watchmaking industry, its innovations are now essential benchmarks. The TUDOR “Born To Dare” spirit is supported throughout the world by first class ambassadors, whose achievements result directly from a daring approach to life.
ABOUT TUDOR
TUDOR is an award-winning Swiss-made watch brand, offering mechanical watches with sophisticated style, proven reliability and unmatched value for money. The origins of TUDOR date back to 1926, when “The Tudor” was first registered as a brand on behalf of the founder of Rolex, Hans Wilsdorf. He officially set up the Montres TUDOR SA company in 1946 to produce watches that respect the traditional Rolex philosophy of quality at a more affordable price point. Throughout their history, thanks to their robustness and affordability, TUDOR watches have been chosen by some of the boldest adventurers, on land, in the air, underwater and on ice. Today, the TUDOR collection includes iconic lines such as Black Bay, Pelagos, 1926 and TUDOR Royal. Since 2015, TUDOR has also offered models with mechanical Manufacture Calibres with multiple functions and superior performance.
Ahead of the Philippine opening of “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” in cinemas next week, Warner Bros. Philippines invites movie and anime fans to visit Helms Deep at the Howlers Manila Cosplay and Music Festival this Saturday, December 7, at the CCP Open Grounds in Pasay City, Metro Manila.
Warner Bros. Philippines’ Helms Deep set-up covers two booths, Booths 10-11, near the cosplay area. It features the throne room, where fans can sit on the throne, just like Helm Hammerhand, the legendary King of Rohan. Freebies are also available for fans who will drop by the booth, including a map of Rohan.
Watch the trailer for “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim”
Music artists confirmed for this year’s festival include American band Gym Class Heroes, Rico Blanco (formerly of Rivermaya), Kaye Cal, Maki and James Reid.
This year’s Howlers Manila aims to beat the Guinness World Record for most number of cosplayer attendees dressed up as video game characters.
Set 183 years before the events chronicled in the original trilogy of films, “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” tells the fate of the House of Helm Hammerhand (Brian Cox), the legendary King of Rohan. A sudden attack by Wulf (Luke Pasqualino), a clever and ruthless Dunlending lord seeking vengeance for the death of his father, forces Helm and his people to make a daring last stand in the ancient stronghold of the Hornburg – a mighty fortress that will later come to be known as Helm’s Deep. Finding herself in an increasingly desperate situation, Héra (Gaia Wise), the daughter of Helm, must summon the will to lead the resistance against a deadly enemy intent on their total destruction. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Kenji Kamiyama. Producers include Oscar winner Philippa Boyens.
About “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim”
New Line Cinema’s original anime feature “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” returns audiences to the epic world brought to life in “The Lord of the Rings” Trilogy, based on the revered books by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Under the direction of award-winning filmmaker Kenji Kamiyama (the “Blade Runner: Black Lotus” and “Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex” TV series), the talented voice cast is led by Brian Cox (“Succession”) as Helm Hammerhand, the mighty King of Rohan; Gaia Wise (“A Walk in the Woods”) as his daughter Héra; and Luke Pasqualino (“Snowpiercer”) as Wulf. Miranda Otto, who delivered an unforgettable, award-winning performance in “The Lord of the Rings” Trilogy, reprises her role as Éowyn, Shieldmaiden of Rohan, who serves as the tale’s narrator. The voice ensemble also includes Lorraine Ashbourne (Netflix’s “Bridgerton”), Yazdan Qafouri (“I Came By”), Benjamin Wainwright (“World on Fire”), Laurence Ubong Williams (“Gateway”), Shaun Dooley (“The Witcher”), Michael Wildman (“Fast and Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw”), Jude Akuwudike (“Beasts of No Nation”), Bilal Hasna (“Sparks”) and Janine Duvitski (“Benidorm”).
With Kamiyama at the helm, the original feature is being produced by Oscar winner Philippa Boyens, from the screenwriting team behind “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” Trilogies, alongside Jason DeMarco and Joseph Chou, who, in addition to their many separate animation projects, collaborated on the “Blade Runner: Black Lotus” series. The executive producers are Fran Walsh, Peter Jackson, Sam Register, Carolyn Blackwood and Toby Emmerich. The screenplay is by Jeffrey Addiss & Will Matthews and Phoebe Gittins & Arty Papageorgiou, story by Addiss & Matthews and Boyens, based on characters created by J.R.R. Tolkien. The team of creative collaborators returning from “The Lord of the Rings” Trilogy also includes Oscar winners Alan Lee and Richard Taylor, along with esteemed Tolkien illustrator John Howe.
The Batang Matatag Campaign, a joint initiative by Erceflora Probiotics and Save the Children Philippines, has announced a significant expansion of its reach and a new partnership with the Manila Water Foundation.
Launched in 2022, the campaign addresses health challenges due to the lack of access to clean water and proper WASH and hygiene facilities. The Batang Matatag campaign invests in gut health and hygiene education for vulnerable communities, and the partnership with the Manila Water Foundation will help increase access to handwashing stations and water pumps in schools and communities across the country.
“Investing in our children’s gut health and hygiene is investing in our future. The Batang Matatag Campaign calls on all of us to play a part in building a healthier, stronger Philippines where every child has the chance to reach their full potential,” said Rica Mae Mateo from Erceflora Probiotics.Deeply concerned by the rise of childhood mortality due to diarrhea in the Philippines, Erceflora Probiotics and Save the Children Philippines launched the Batang Matatag Campaign to combat this preventable illness. Launched in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in 2022, the campaign reached over 19,477 individuals in communities and schools, training over 1,000 adolescents in essential life skills, educated 500 residents on child health and nutrition, and achieved a remarkable 100% improvement in health levels within the communities it served.
This year, Batang Matatag expanded its reach this year to the Rizal province in Luzon, completing four hygiene promotion sessions and WASH caravans, and 12 nutrition promotion sessions. The campaign provided 2,500 hygiene kits for students, as well as Brigada Eskwela cleaning kits for 126 schools in Rizal and BARMM.
Batang Matatag also initiated educating school clinicians and nurses in 68 public schools in Antipolo about the role of probiotics and effective diarrhea management among school children.
Through this campaign, the communities benefited from newly constructed water pumps and handwashing stations, ultimately benefiting 65,007 individuals in both provinces.
“We are incredibly proud of Batang Matatag’s impact in its first year, and thrilled to expand our reach to Luzon. With the support of our partners and communities, we are committed to continuing this vital work and ensuring that every Filipino child has the opportunity to grow up healthy and strong,” Mateo added.
Families are also empowered to support the campaign. With every purchase of Erceflora Probiotics, a portion of the sale will be donated to the #BatangMatatag Campaign to help build more WASH facilities and create more hygiene education programs for vulnerable communities and partner schools in the country.
Erceflora is available in the nearest drug store or pharmacy, or online through the Sanofi Official Store. For more information, visit the Erceflora website here.
Since its beginnings in May 2022 with the launch of its first physical store in Uptown Mall, BGC, PICKUP COFFEE has quickly become a household name, redefining the coffee experience for Filipinos. In just over two and a half years, the brand has grown exponentially, opening its 100th store in Paseo De Magallanes in 2023 and its 200th store in SM Sta. Rosa earlier this year.
Now, PICKUP COFFEE reaches a monumental milestone with the opening of its 300th store at Robinsons Place Manila. Each branch in its rapidly expanding network is proudly company-owned, ensuring consistent quality and a seamless experience for coffee lovers nationwide. This achievement reflects the brand’ s dedication to delivering on its mission: to uplift everyone with fast, delicious, high-quality, and surprisingly affordable beverages—one PICKUP at a time.
T o date, PICKUP COFFEE has sold over 3 million cups of its iconic Kape Kastila, proving its commitment to quality and accessibility resonates with Filipinos. “This 300th store opening marks our commitment to our mission to UPlift everyone with fast, delicious, high-quality, and surprisingly affordable beverages everywhere—one PICKUP at a time, ” said Francis Flores, PICKUP COFFEE’ s Country President and CEO. “This is only the beginning.”
T o mark this incredible achievement, PICKUP COFFEE celebrated in style. The event featured a short program attended by company executives and special guests. PICKUP friends also joined in the excitement with an exclusive Buy 1, Share 1 offer—buy one beverage and get another free to share with a friend!
Missed the Grand Launch? Don’t worry! T o continue the celebration, PICKUP COFFEE is offering an exclusive promo at its newest store in Robinsons Place Manila. From December 6 to December 31, 2024, enjoy 30% OFF all beverages with a minimum spend of Php 300 when ordering through the PICKUP App.
Disney+’s new K-drama, ‘Lightshop Keeper’ boasts an exciting creative team behind it: the webtoon artist-turned-screenwriter Kang Full, who gave us the Disney+ hit ‘Moving’, and Kim Hee Won, a reliable and excellent actor who is making his directorial debut with this show. ‘Lightshop Keeper’ is a psychological horror that makes full use of its unusual release schedule. The first four episodes drop at once with the last four episodes being released, two episodes every week. It’s a timing that fits the show’s big concept and immersive storytelling. The first four episodes actually plays out like one big pilot and the audience needs to be patient because each episode feels separate from each other until the explosive revelation at the ending of episode four that connects everything together so elegantly.
Each episode centers around one or two characters (with other characters having a minor appearance) as they navigate through their daily lives as supernatural forces seem to hover around them in a near-empty suburb at the outskirts of Seoul. Connecting each story are the supernatural creatures that are haunting each character and a light shop that is open all through the night that somehow manages to draw everyone in. The light shop keeper, played by Ju Ji-hoon (of ‘Kingdom’ and ‘Hyena’ and ‘Jirisan’), who calls the spirits “strangers.”
Interestingly enough, Park Bo Young (‘Strong Girl Bong-soon’) is also always a constant but she’s perennially in the intensive care unit of a hospital but she too is aware of the strangers. For the other characters, there’s a group of students that revolve around Hyun-joo (Shin Eun-soo) who is constantly running into the strangers and is also a regular visitor of the light shop, buying bulbs for her mother (Lee Jung-eun of ‘Parasite’). There’s a man (Uhm Tae Goo of ‘Concrete Utopia’ and ‘Night in Paradise’) who comes home late at night on the last bus and sees a woman (Kim Seol-hyun of ‘Summer Strike’ and idol group AOA) sitting at the bus stop bench every night he heads home. When he finally gets curious enough to ask her, things start to get really frightening. Kim Min-ha of ‘Pachinko’ plays a screenwriter who takes a lease in a house surrounded by unoccupied homes so that she can write in peace but there’s a door in her home that is locked, and a frightening presence is lurking just around her. At night, her peace is ruined by a student played by Kim Ki-hae, who must walk the dark alleys on his way home and he sings to himself to keep from getting scared.
Each one takes center stage in each of the four episodes, except for Park Bo Young and Ju Ji-Hoon, who are a constant in the show. It features each character’s lives as they are hounded by these strangers. What the strangers want seems different for each particular stranger, but the show and Kim Hee Won’s competent direction makes each episode visually stunning and full of suspense and tension.
The show’s slow burn approach, creating the world and developing each character can be quite challenging for some viewers who want things to be explained quickly but the show is confident enough that these frightening scenes and sets up are enough of a treat until it’s ready to unravel for us. Everything makes sense by the end of the fourth episode and while Park Bo Young’s character and her relationship to all these characters become clear, Ju Ji-Hoon’s light shop keeper and his knowledge of the strangers and his own mysterious past is still kept mysterious and in the dark.
It’s a pretty dark story to tell just a few weeks before Christmas but it plays off a nice contrast to any of the more holiday-friendly choices that might be sent our way. It’s very well-made horror and with Kang Full’s exploration of the superhero genre in ‘Moving,’ there’s definitely going to be sound profound explorations on mortality and death that’s bound to happen in this show. With the foundations that have been carefully and meticulously laid out in the first four episodes, I’m sure that the last four are going to be as explosive and as enjoyable.
As the year draws to a close, Viu Philippines is gearing up to deliver a spectacular lineup of content to end 2024 on a high note. From highly anticipated Korean dramas to binge-worthy variety shows and exclusive series, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this December. Whether you’re looking to cozy up with heartwarming romances, immerse yourself in thrilling mysteries, or catch up on the latest Asian entertainment, Viu has you covered for a holiday season filled with unforgettable stories.
Viu Original
Family By Choice | For binge-watching
Though not bound by blood, three friends, who shared their teenage years together like family, reunite after a decade. Emotions surge as they reminisce about their first love, which they had cherished but never openly acknowledged.
In a world of fakery and pretension, can true love prevail between a mysterious second-hand bag seller and a true crime geek, especially when the girl’s charming first love reappears?
Viu Original How to Spot a Red Flagrevolves around Cha Fontanilla’s (played by Belle Mariano) catfishing experience. After discovering that Matt Flores (played by Donny Pangilinan), an online friend she met in a forum, isn’t who he says he is, she finds out that the young man is real, but he isn’t the one chatting with her. The real Matt investigates the matter and discovers that his close friend, JR Valdez (played by Jameson Blake), stole his identity and has been chatting with Cha. But instead of exposing his friend, Matt agrees to pursue Cha to help JR set up a date with her. At the same time, Cha also ends up having feelings for Matt.
Brewing Love | | New episodes every Monday and Tuesday
Tiki-taka romance between a tough and outspoken woman who used to be in special forces but now working at a liquor company and a delicate and meticulous brewmaster man, while they start their journey to create brand-new beer
Korean Drama
The Tale of Lady Ok | To premiere November 30
Ok T ae Young, a female slave in the Joseon Dynasty becomes a legal expert while concealing her true identity as a slave. Despite her struggles, she is dedicated to helping others. Her life takes a turn when she meets Cheon Seung Hwi, a traveling storyteller who falls in love with her at first sight.
Korean Variety
Handsome Guys | To premiere December 2
The Handsome Guys bring a never-before-seen combination of personalities, showcasing a unique chemistry. Expect genuine laughs with Handsome Guys on Sunday. First episode guest on Handsome Guys is Jin from BTS. More information to follow.
Rented in Finland | To premiere December 7
What unfolds when four of Korea’s biggest stars swap their city lights for the raw wilds of Lapland, where even electricity and running water are a luxury? Brace yourself for a hilarious journey as the City Boys experience the self-sufficient lifestyle of local residents.
Universe League begins as 42 players compete for their dreams! With the players divided into TEAM BEAT , TEAM GROOVE, and TEAM RHYTHM, the battle for the Prism Cup and their debut takes place. The directors of each group, none other than Lee Chang Sub, YUGYEOM, EL CAPITXN, TEN, and YANGYANG, help the players hone their skills and develop teamwork. Which players will win the league and become idols?
Stand-up comedian Gu Yi juggles her life as an office worker by day and a performer by night. She has no grand ambitions other than making her every audience laugh. One evening, however, she notices a man sitting in the front row who refuses to crack a smile, no matter how funny her jokes or how engaging her interactions. Outside the show, he is equally unresponsive to her charms, which leaves her feeling unusually defeated. Liang Dai Wen has been trying every trick to make himself laugh — keeping a journal, reading novels, watching girl group performances, even snagging tickets to stand-up shows. Yet, suffering from alexithymia, he struggles to feel and express typical emotions. No matter what happens, he simply could not produce “reactions. ” And so, a woman determined to bring humor to the world and a man who can’t laugh, thus begins their unexpected love story.
Asian Drama
Pluto | First GL series on Viu Philippines, starring Namtan and Film Watch: https://www.viu.com/ott/ph/en/vod/2445229/Pluto
Ai-Oon has to break up with May, the girlfriend of her younger twin sister– Ob Oom to fulfill the last wish she asked for before getting into an accident on her own wedding day and falling into a coma. However, when Ai-Oon meets May, there are 3 things that surprise her. The first thing is that May is a girl, the second thing is that she is blind, and the last thing is that Ai-Oon’s heart races when May kisses her.
Tagalog Dubbed
Flight to You | December 2
Cheng Xiao, the only female captain of air cargo at Luzhou Airlines, was transferred to another department due to the company’s restructuring. Unexpectedly, she faced harsh criticism from Gu Nanting, the strict manager of the flight department, who believed she was unfit to be an outstanding captain.
Midnight Romance in Hagwon | December 3
Daechi-dong is known as the top educational hub in the country. Hye Jin started as a part-time tutor during her college years. As usual, she was working late into the night preparing for her class when she was suddenly visited by her former student, Jun Ho. Jun Ho had resigned from a major corporation and returned to Dachi Chase as an instructor, where Hye Jin also teaches. A midnight romance begins as Jun Ho reenters Hye Jin’s life.
Under the Gun | December 5
When Ko Gun, the son of Korea’s renowned Hold’em expert Ko Jun Ha, saw his family on the brink of financial ruin, he embarked on a mission to restore their reputation. Along the way, he crossed paths with Se Young, a charismatic young woman from a wealthy background. Despite their differing ambitions and origins, a passionate romance ignited between them.
The Player 2: Master of Swindlers | December 7
The Masters of Swindlers are back in the game. A group of experts in deception from all walks of life—scammers, hackers, fighters, and drivers—have joined forces to punish villains and seek justice in their own unique way. Ha Ri, the mastermind and leader of the group, devises the plans for their operations, while Byung Min, the hacker, manipulates computer networks with his “Mighty Hands.” Jin Woong, the fighter, possesses extraordinary combat skills that enable him to take on a hundred opponents, and Je Yi, the newest member, joins the team as a fearless driver. This time, a mysterious woman invites Ha Ri into a war of swindlers. Will she become their ally or their enemy? The ultimate team of players is back for an even bigger game this year, setting the stage for an exciting team-play scam!
This December, Viu Philippines proves once again why it’s a go-to platform for Asian entertainment lovers. With its diverse lineup of dramas, variety shows, and exclusives, there’s no better way to make the most of the holiday season. So, grab your popcorn, gather your loved ones, and let Viu transport you to a world of excitement, laughter, and inspiration to close out 2024 with a bang.
Celebrate the season with a breathtaking retelling of the Nativity as “Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night”premieres in the Philippines this December 11, exclusively at SM Cinemas. This Christmas special, inspired by the globally acclaimed TV series The Chosen, offers a heartfelt portrayal of the birth of Jesus Christ, seamlessly blending human emotion with divine grace.
A Cinematic Nativity Experience Like No Other
Starring Sara Anne as a youthful Mother Mary and Raj Bond as Joseph, the film captures the simplicity and sanctity of Christ’s birth. It delves into Mary and Joseph’s personal journey while showcasing the extraordinary mission they embraced. Fans will also recognize familiar faces from The Chosen series, including Elizabeth Tabish (Mary Magdalene) and Vanessa Benavente (older Mother Mary).
Adding to the immersive experience, the special features a heartfelt video message from The Chosen creator Dallas Jenkins, encouraging viewers to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
Music That Magnifies the Spirit of the Season
The special’s soundtrack elevates the emotional narrative with performances by global icons like Andrea Bocelli and his son Matteo Bocelli, alongside the soulful sounds of The Feast Worship, adding a unique Filipino touch. This harmony of music and visuals transforms the film into a worship experience that stirs the soul.
A Touching Response from Fans
During a recent preview held in Manila, attendees were moved by the film’s authenticity and emotional depth. One viewer shared, “It made me feel like I was present at the Nativity.” Another praised it as “the perfect reminder of the reason for the season.”
Jonathan Roumie’s Gratitude to Filipino Fans
Jonathan Roumie, the beloved actor who portrays Jesus in The Chosen, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the warm reception in the Philippines. “To see such a warm reception to The Chosen here is humbling,” he said. Roumie marveled at the country’s unique Christmas spirit, where celebrations begin as early as September and culminate in January.
An Invitation to Experience Christmas Anew
“The Chosen Christmas Special: Holy Night” isn’t just a movie—it’s an invitation to reflect on the wonder of Christ’s birth. Perfect for family gatherings or personal quiet moments, this special promises to inspire faith and foster gratitude.
Tickets are available now via the SM Cinema app on Google Play and the App Store. Reserve your seats early to be part of this unforgettable celebration of Christmas.
Fans of the original trilogy will be thrilled to hear some beloved voices in this new adventure. Miranda Otto reprises her iconic role as Éowyn, narrating the tale of her ancestors. Adding to the excitement, Dominic Monaghan and Billy Boyd—Merry and Pippin from the original Lord of the Rings trilogy—lend their talents to the anime. While their roles remain a mystery, their appearance in a recent behind-the-scenes featurette has fueled fan anticipation.
World PremiereBrian CoxDominic Monaghan & Billy Boyd
A Starry Premiere
On December 3, London played host to the world premiere of The War of the Rohirrim. Among the guests were Monaghan and Boyd, alongside voice cast members Brian Cox (Helm Hammerhand), Gaia Wise (Héra), and Luke Pasqualino (Wulf). The event also featured filmmakers such as director Kenji Kamiyama (Blade Runner: Black Lotus) and producer Philippa Boyens, known for her Oscar-winning contributions to The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
The red carpet buzz didn’t stop there—Sir Ian McKellen, Cate Blanchett, Andy Serkis, and other stars from the original films were also in attendance, making it a night to remember.
The Story: A New Legend of Rohan
Set 183 years before the events of The Lord of the Rings, The War of the Rohirrim tells the dramatic tale of Helm Hammerhand, the legendary King of Rohan. When Wulf, a cunning Dunlending lord (voiced by Luke Pasqualino), attacks, Helm and his people are forced into a desperate stand at the Hornburg—later known as Helm’s Deep.
Helm’s daughter, Héra (Gaia Wise), emerges as a courageous leader, rallying her people against overwhelming odds. This gripping tale of heroism and sacrifice is sure to captivate fans old and new.
Gaia WisePeter JacksonPhilippa Boyens
About the Film
Directed by Kenji Kamiyama, The War of the Rohirrim boasts a stellar voice cast including Brian Cox as Helm Hammerhand and Miranda Otto as Éowyn. The production team features The Lord of the Rings veterans Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, and Peter Jackson, with artistic contributions from Alan Lee, Richard Taylor, and John Howe—names synonymous with Tolkien’s cinematic world.
