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  • Celebrate the Most Spook-tacular Halloween at Robinsons Malls!

    Celebrate the Most Spook-tacular Halloween at Robinsons Malls!

    This October, Robinsons Malls invites you to “Halloween Chills & Thrills” — a no tricks, all treats Halloween celebration for the whole family, including your fur babies!

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    Happening in several Robinsons Malls nationwide, kids can unleash their creativity in the Children’s Costume Contest from October 26 to 31, while young barkadas (from 3 to 8 kids each) can team up for the all-new “Squad Edition” for a chance to win awesome prizes. Horror movie fans can catch spine-tingling films like Saw X and 13 Exorcisms at HorrorKada Fest in participating Robinsons Movieworld cinemas from October 30 to November 5, with the ticket priced at just 120 pesos!

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    Fur parents surely won’t want to miss the “Horror Pets-tival,” featuring a pet costume contest and other fun activities, because we know that pets are part of our fun family celebrations, too!

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    Throughout the various mall events and activities from October 19 to 31, enjoy Halloween-themed treats and promos from mall partners like Breakfast at Antonio’s, BBQ Chicken, JCo Donuts, Krispy Kreme, Chooks, Everything but Cheese, Toys R Us, Robinsons Department Store and many more, plus lots of exciting action at Playlab, Timezone, and Jollyland.  Don’t forget to capture the spooky fun memories — get free Life4Cuts photo souvenirs when you spend P1,500 at participating malls from October 31 to November 3!

    So, gather the squad, get all costumed up, and head to Robinsons Malls for Halloween Chills and Thrills!

    For more details on promo mechanics, contest dates, and the full list participating malls, visit Robinsons Malls’ official Facebook and Instagram pages.

  • “Gladiator II” First Reactions Hail it as an ‘Epic Roman Opera,’ in Cinemas on December 4

    “Gladiator II” First Reactions Hail it as an ‘Epic Roman Opera,’ in Cinemas on December 4

    Get ready for a cinematic spectacle! The much-anticipated sequel to the 2000 classic Gladiator is set to hit Philippine cinemas on December 4, and early reactions are already buzzing with excitement. Movie critics and industry insiders are calling Gladiator II an “epic Roman opera” and “a total action spectacle,” with high praise for director Ridley Scott and his star-studded cast, including Paul Mescal and Denzel Washington.

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    Could this be his year? Director Ridley Scott, nominated thrice for a Best Director Academy Award, shares a light moment on the Gladiator II set with Pedro Pascal and Paul Mescal. 

    What’s the Buzz All About?

    During an early screening in Los Angeles, Gladiator II has received glowing feedback, with many calling it one of Ridley Scott’s best works in recent years. The story continues from where the original left off, focusing on Lucius Verus (Paul Mescal), the young boy we last saw in the Colosseum, now a man driven by vengeance. With an all-star cast that includes Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, and Fred Hechinger, the film promises high-octane action, epic battles, and deep emotional moments.

    Critic Erik Anderson from AwardsWatch couldn’t hold back his enthusiasm, tweeting, “GLADIATOR II is a true epic and Ridley Scott’s best in years. Paul Mescal is a great action star without sacrificing his indie grit, a worthy heir to the throne. Denzel Washington EATS every line and costume without ever overplaying,”

    Other critics are praising the film’s powerful visuals and riveting action sequences. Jillian Chilingerian from Offscreen Central said, “Ridley Scott places you in the action of the arena centered on legacy and honor amping up the blood, battles, and biceps for something so deliciously cinematic and Machiavellian. Pedro Pascal, Paul Mescal, & Joseph Quinn certified movie stars… it’s one of the few modern blockbusters that actually looks GOOD visually.”

    Griffin Schiller of FilmSpeak raved, “Ridley Scott returns to the Colosseum to prove to the world that HE’S. STILL. GOT. IT. Absolutely BUZZING after #GladiatorII! An EPIC shakespearean tale of hope, futility & power w/in a crumbling system. Denzel FEASTS in a showstopping, Machiavellian performance. What a picture!”

    A Glorious Return to Ancient Rome

    The plot of Gladiator II centers around Lucius Verus, who, after witnessing the fall of his hero Maximus (played by Russell Crowe in the original), must now face the Colosseum himself. His journey is one of honor, revenge, and the desire to restore the glory of Rome to its people. Connie Nielsen reprises her role as Lucilla, Lucius’ mother, bringing continuity from the original film.

    Pedro Pascal, who plays Roman general Marcus Acacius, shared his excitement for the film, describing it as “It’s grand in scope, with sophisticated characters and storytelling,” says Pedro Pascal, “It’s all the things that fill in the word ‘epic.’”

    Denzel Washington, who portrays Macrinus, one of the central figures in the film, has been lauded for his commanding performance. Washington himself said, “This is the biggest film I’ve been on,” raves Denzel Washington, “Cecil B. DeMille [The Ten Commandments, Cleopatra] on steroids.”

    Ridley Scott’s Vision Shines Again

    It’s been over two decades since Gladiator first hit the screens and left audiences in awe with its sweeping battle scenes and powerful story of a fallen general’s revenge. Now, Ridley Scott returns to the world of ancient Rome with a sequel that critics are already calling a masterpiece.

    Scott’s dedication to authenticity and cinematic grandeur is evident in the early reactions. Andrew Salazar from Discussing Film said, “Ridley Scott’s direction is unhinged, framing this as an epic Roman opera. The visuals get the job done.” And We Live Entertainment’s Scott Menzel noted, “Gladiator II is Ridley Scott’s best film since The Martian. A big, bloody and bad ass action spectacle that builds upon the legacy of the original. The film showcases beautiful set pieces and a lot of epic battles. Paul Mescal shines. Denzel Washington chews up the scenery quite a bit here and looks like he is having the time of his life here.”

    Atom, a movie review outlet, couldn’t contain their excitement in their post: “EPIC MASTERPIECE!! Emotional with huge, STUNNING action. Ridley Scott’s perfect crescendo. Paul & Pedro deliver the goods. A sweeping, arousing saga that fists your a**e. Not just another sequel, it’s the BEST movie ever! A fitting end setting up what’s next.”

    The Featurette: Behind the Scenes with Ridley Scott and Cast

    As the buzz for Gladiator II grows, fans can dive deeper into the making of the film through a new featurette. In the video, director Ridley Scott and the cast discuss the immense effort behind bringing ancient Rome back to life on the big screen.

    “There’s an excitement coming back to the Roman Empire,” says Scott, reflecting on his return to the world he first created in 2000’s Gladiator. He adds, “The scale of this film is enormous, but it’s the characters that will capture the hearts of the audience.”

    Paul Mescal, who steps into the leading role as Lucius, acknowledges the gravity of the film. “It’s not lost on me what we as a cast of actors and Ridley are stepping into,” he says, fully aware of the pressure to live up to the legacy of the original.

    Meanwhile, Connie Nielsen, the only returning cast member from the first film, shares her awe at stepping into the Colosseum once again. “To walk out in that arena for the second time was pretty amazing,” she said, adding to the anticipation for her character’s return.

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    Critics seem to have had as much fun watching Denzel Washington as the actor had playing the role of Macrinus in Gladiator II, which some have predicted will give him his third Oscar win. 

    A Blockbuster in the Making

    With its grand set pieces, powerful performances, and a narrative steeped in honor, revenge, and legacy, Gladiator II is poised to be one of the year’s biggest blockbusters. Fans of the original film are already counting down the days until its December 4 release in the Philippines.

    Whether you’re a fan of epic historical dramas or just looking for a film that will leave you on the edge of your seat, Gladiator II promises to deliver. Prepare for battle, as the Colosseum awaits!

    Catch Gladiator II in Philippine cinemas starting December 4. Don’t forget to follow #GladiatorII and tag @paramountpicsph to join the conversation!

  • Venom Joins the Race: “Venom: The Last Dance” Teams Up with Haas F1 at Austin

    Venom Joins the Race: “Venom: The Last Dance” Teams Up with Haas F1 at Austin

    Get ready to feel the rush as Marvel’s iconic antihero Venom takes a new thrilling turn in “Venom: The Last Dance“! As excitement for the film builds, Venom partnered with the Haas F1 Team at the recent Austin Race Weekend, revving up anticipation with a special surprise for fans and motorsport enthusiasts.

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    Venom and Haas: A High-Octane Team-Up

    The Austin Race Weekend witnessed a powerful collaboration between Venom and the Haas F1 Team, bringing Marvel fans and racing enthusiasts closer to the action. The centerpiece of this partnership? A custom “Venom: The Last Dance” F1 show car, designed exclusively for the event, showcased the thrilling connection between speed and power that both Venom and Formula 1 represent. Fans were treated to a visual feast as the striking black and red livery of Venom’s iconic symbiote look took over the show car, making it a highlight of the weekend.

    But that wasn’t all. Haas drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Kevin Magnussen went all in on the Venom hype, sporting custom Venom-themed helmets. The unique helmets, inspired by the symbiote’s signature design, made waves both on and off the track, adding an extra dose of flair to the team’s Austin race weekend appearance.

    Tom Hardy Returns for One Last Ride in ‘Venom: The Last Dance’

    “Venom: The Last Dance” brings back Tom Hardy as Eddie Brock, hosting the final chapter of the explosive trilogy. This time, Eddie and Venom face their greatest challenge yet, with both of their worlds closing in on them. Hunted from all sides, Eddie and Venom must make a tough choice that could change everything. With its thrilling story and intense action, “Venom: The Last Dance” promises to be a gripping conclusion to the story of one of Marvel’s most iconic antiheroes.

    The stellar cast includes Tom Hardy, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Juno Temple, Rhys Ifans, Peggy Lu, Alanna Ubach, and Stephen Graham. Directed by Kelly Marcel, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Hardy, the film is set to hit Philippine cinemas on October 23. Marvel fans, it’s time to mark your calendars and prepare for Venom’s epic finale!

    Secure Your Tickets Now!

    “Venom: The Last Dance” is almost here, and tickets are available now! With the anticipation of the final showdown between Eddie, Venom, and those hunting them, this film is set to be a can’t-miss event. Visit your local cinema’s ticketing site to reserve your seats for the October 23 release.

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    A Thrilling Collaboration for Marvel and Racing Fans

    This collaboration between Venom and the Haas F1 Team is a match made in adrenaline heaven, combining the exhilarating world of motorsport with the high-octane action of Marvel’s favorite antihero. Whether you’re an F1 fan, a Marvel enthusiast, or both, seeing Venom take over the Austin Race Weekend was a thrill. And now, it’s time to take that excitement to the big screen.

    Be sure to follow Columbia Pictures Philippines on social media and connect with other fans by using the hashtag #Venom. Catch “Venom: The Last Dance” in cinemas starting October 23 — it’s one ride you won’t want to miss!

    Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

  • The Epic Return! New Poster Unveiled for “Karate Kid: Legends” Starring Jackie Chan, Ben Wang, and Ralph Macchio

    The Epic Return! New Poster Unveiled for “Karate Kid: Legends” Starring Jackie Chan, Ben Wang, and Ralph Macchio

    Legends Live On: Jackie Chan, Ben Wang, and Ralph Macchio Star in Karate Kid: Legends — Coming Soon to Philippine Cinemas!

    About Karate Kid: Legends

    The much-anticipated return to the iconic Karate Kid universe is finally here! Introducing Karate Kid: Legends—a cinematic adventure that promises to deliver the same heart and thrill that fans of the original series adore. The film is directed by the talented Jonathan Entwistle, with a gripping screenplay written by Rob Lieber. Behind the scenes, veteran producer Karen Rosenfelt lends her expertise, while the legendary Ralph Macchio himself joins Jenny Hinkey as an executive producer. Talk about an all-star lineup!

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    In the starring roles, we see the ever-charismatic Jackie Chan, who continues to shine as a martial arts icon. Joining him is the rising star Ben Wang, and, of course, Ralph Macchio reprising his fan-favorite role. Adding more excitement to the mix, the film also features Joshua Jackson, Sadie Stanley, and Ming-Na Wen—creating a powerhouse ensemble that promises to deliver on action, nostalgia, and heartfelt storytelling.

    The Legacy Continues

    Fans old and new, prepare to be swept into a world where honor, perseverance, and epic fight scenes reign supreme. As the new poster teases, “Legends are Forever,” and this film is ready to make its mark in Karate Kid history. Stay tuned for more updates, teasers, and exciting news leading up to the big premiere.

    Release Date and Distribution

    Get ready, Philippines! Karate Kid: Legends will be making its way to local cinemas soon. Distributed by Columbia Pictures, the film marks the latest addition to Sony Pictures Releasing International’s lineup. Don’t miss updates and exclusive content by following @columbiapicph on social media and using the official hashtag #KarateKidMovie.

    Credits are still subject to finalization.

    Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

  • Step Into the Wicked World of Villain Ville This Halloween at Alabang Town Center!

    Step Into the Wicked World of Villain Ville This Halloween at Alabang Town Center!

    If you’re looking for a spooktacular Halloween event to sink your fangs into, the gates of Villain Ville: The Sorcerer’s Lair at Alabang Town Center open from October 31 to November 3, 2024, to welcome children and adults alike for a fun celebration. Take your coven with you and check every Halloween activity off your bucket list: the frightfully extravagant, the delightfully funny, and the irresistibly cute!

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    Journey through the Eternal Forest and marvel at the bewitching displays that make the most awesome photo backgrounds. Keep your eyes peeled for shadows and scoundrels along the way.

    It’s a wicked wonderland out there so make sure you pick up a potion at the Murky Mixtures area. Craft your gooey concoction and watch as it bubbles and glows to add a dash of mischief to your Halloween adventure!

    Step into a world of neon magic as artists transform your look with a Glowing Face Art that illuminates in the Crystal Cavern. Whether you’re going for eerie or enchanting, this makeover will surely elevate your costume and make you stand out.

    Head to the Magical Mess Hall for some coloring fun. There’s also a mirror on the wall where the fairest of them all can strike a pose.

    Don’t forget to grab your Cauldron of Secrets, brimming with sweet treats, fun activity sheets, and a few more surprises.

    To participate, register your kids aged 4 to 13 from October 28 to November 2, 2024, with a minimum single receipt of P2,000. Each pass grants entry to Villain Ville: The Sorcerer’s Lair for one child and one adult, including access to all activities and a loot bag. Activities will run in six time slots daily from October 31 to November 2, 2024, starting at 12:30 PM and continuing until 8:00 PM.

    If you’re just looking to snap some photos, you can redeem a pass with a minimum single receipt of P500. Villain Ville: The Sorcerer’s Lair will be at the Activity Center from October 31 to November 2, 2024.

    Don’t miss out on this spellbinding experience! Hop on your broomstick and fly over to Alabang Town Center this Halloween for a day full of magic and mischief.

    Follow @alabangtowncenter on Instagram for more updates.

  • M2M ‘The Better Endings Tour’ Coming to Manila on May 2025

    M2M ‘The Better Endings Tour’ Coming to Manila on May 2025

    After 25 years, the beloved Norwegian pop duo M2M is reuniting for their first-ever headlining tour, and it kicks off in Asia. MANILA will be on May 1, 2025 at the Araneta Coliseum. Tickets will go on-sale on Saturday, October 26 at 12PM via TicketNet.com.ph and TicketNet outlets nationwide. Presented by Wilbros Live.

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    Marit Larsen and Marion Ravn, who shot to international fame in the early 2000s, are returning to the stage to celebrate their legacy. 

    “It was never a question of where we’d start our tour if we ever reunited – Asia was always the first choice. Some of our best memories are from there.” says Marion Ravn.

    2025 marks the 25th anniversary of M2M’s best-selling album «Shades of Purple”, and the fans of the duo have continued to listen to their music and begged for a reunion for a long time. Following their split in 2002, both Marit Larsen and Marion Ravn pursued successful solo careers, but the duo never performed together again – until now.

    On September 22nd (twenty-five after nine) Marit and Marion’s followers were sent into a frenzy when M2M posted a video of themselves singing a snippet of their most-streamed hit, “The Day You Went Away“. The clip went viral, racking up millions of views within hours, as fans flooded the comments with tour requests. And now, it’s finally happening.

    “The Better Endings Tour” is the beginning of a new chapter for M2M, and it brings them back to Asia. Despite spending nearly a decade together, travelling all over the world and selling over 12 million albums worldwide, M2M never embarked on their own headlining tour. 

    “We’re finally getting to do what we always dreamed of. “I can’t wait to get back on stage playing music with Marit again”, says Marion.

    “Making “Shades of Purple” changed our lives forever, and playing these songs together again, in the same room, while rediscovering both our music and our friendship at the same time, is a particular kind of magic. It feels powerful, like a celebration, Marit says.

    “Let’s give this story a better ending. The ending it deserves. We truly can’t wait to see you (again).” 

    Follow @WilbrosLive on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

  • Streaming Review: ‘Outside’ is a Well-Crafted Domestic Drama Disguised as a Zombie Movie

    Streaming Review: ‘Outside’ is a Well-Crafted Domestic Drama Disguised as a Zombie Movie

    From the opening scene of ‘Outside,’ writer/director Carlo Ledesma already lays the groundwork for his approach to the zombie genre. A beat-up van carrying four dirty, exhausted passengers pass through an empty highway flanked by sugarcane fields tells us everything that we need to know: the zombie apocalypse has already started, and this family is on the run. The film begins and they’ve already witnessed and experienced things. What exactly? While some of these events are spoken about much later on in the film, Ledesma expertly weaves in what the audience already knows about zombies to let our imagination do the work. It’s only from the cast’s performances that informs us how intense it all is. Sid Lucero, Beauty Gonzales, Marco Masa, and Aiden Tyler Patdu play the family and as we see them arrive at an old hacienda, we know what they’ve been through must have been hell.

    And from here, this is what makes ‘Outside’ so refreshing. Ledesma knows the audience have expectations and continues to subvert it at every turn. You are expecting a zombie hoard but instead, he hits you with a complex domestic drama turned thriller all set in the backdrop of a zombie movie. Because while there are zombies, they are not the scariest thing in the film. For the pillars of this family – Sid Lucero’s Francis and Beauty Gonzales’ Iris – are not in good terms and their children, Masa’s Joshua and Patdu’s Lucas, are bearing the brunt of it.

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    Set in a broken-down hacienda somewhere in Negros Occidental, Ledesma uses the beautiful architecture of the house amidst the grand expanse of the sugarcane fields surrounding the mansion as a battleground for a broken family. Francis and Iris’ marriage is falling apart, and it unfortunately happens during a zombie outbreak. Tensions are high and moving back into Francis’ ancestral home reignites horrible memories of his traumatic youth with an abusive father.

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    The film unfolds slowly, establishing the deep hurts that have been embedded in each character, for even the children are not spared from the backlash of all of this emotional turmoil. Francis is trying to keep his family together while Iris is just looking for a place to feel safe and as the constant presence of zombies continue to complicate the already-tense situation, every emotion is amplified and pushes the characters to their limit.

    ‘Outside’ goes beyond the zombie genre and manages to intersect and weave in various plots – the domestic drama, psychological horror, and zombie movie – into one narrative. For those expecting a high-paced thriller, you might be disappointed (though there is one exceptional action-packed sequence at the start of the second act that is exquisitely choreographed and executed) as the film is more interested in developing and building up its characters.

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    Sid Lucero and Beauty Gonzales are wonderful at holding this whole film together. The film centers around the two of them and their battle of wills. Lucero handles Francis’ breakdown with all the layers that it requires so that it never feels like a caricature or some easy psychotic episode. He works on every individual dimension of his character’s burden: protecting his family, dealing with his trauma, reconciling with his wife, losing control, redefining the home he never wanted to return to. Gonzales, on the other hand, is a woman struggling against her lack of options. How does she get away from her husband with her kids when he has the key to the van, a gun, and a strong desire to keep everyone together. I was surprised by how this film was able to communicate how trapped some women must feel inside a broken marriage. While the zombies have taken multiple metaphors over the course of half a century or more since their appearance in the medium of cinema, this was the first time I saw the zombies as a metaphor for all the external forces that keep women in a failing marriage.

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    While I feel that the film could use a simpler plot – there are scenes that are there where I feel they only serve to offer new choices for Francis and Iris – what I love about ‘Outside’ is that it never goes out of its way to scare you. It is so confident that the dramatic situation is already tension-filled and frightening that it doesn’t go overboard in the filmmaking to scare you. No inorganic jump scares or overbearing music or crazy camera angles. It’s just clean, beautiful filmmaking that’s focused on character development that’s pushing the story forward. The fact that the film is well-acted, and the elements are fit for horror is just icing on the cake.

    My Rating:

    stars 4 5



    Outside is now streaming on Netflix! Click here to watch it now.

  • Movie Review: New Characters, Same Story, Same Tricks: ‘Smile 2’ Is Your Standard Horror Film

    Movie Review: New Characters, Same Story, Same Tricks: ‘Smile 2’ Is Your Standard Horror Film

    I don’t remember much from the first movie, ‘Smile,’ except its dramatic ending confrontation where the demon finally reveals itself and I thought the imagery of that was quite gruesome and original. But I don’t remember much about the story or the main character and what happened to the demon after the film. Luckily, the sequel, ‘Smile 2’ takes none of that story and just presents the demon and how it is victimizing new characters.

    Unfortunately, this means that writer/director Parker Finn must establish his new protagonist and the world that she lives in and how the demon fits in all of this. Going over my review of the first film, I commented that Finn has an issue with drawing out scenes and overextending his moments and storytelling and he’s still at it. The film is a little over two hours and it gets exhausting. Finn has a good sense for creating tension with his camera but as a storyteller, he is constantly trying to scare you and after a while, we forget the story, we can’t invest in the characters, and we are just preparing for the scares.

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    Naomi Scott stars in Paramount Pictures Presents A Temple Hill Production A Parker Finn FIlm “SMILE 2”

    In the sequel, the demon finds its way to haunt Skye Riley (Naomi Scott), a pop star who just got back from serious car accident. At the top of her game, she succumbed to the lure of drugs, and she is attempting a redemption tour, trying to stay sober while the death of her boyfriend who perished during the same car accident is still fresh in her mind. She has a new album and is preparing a tour and it’s the worst time ever for someone to be making a comeback but there is pressure from her management, who is also her mother (Rosemarie DeWitt). 

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    Lukas Gage stars in Paramount Pictures Presents A Temple Hill Production A Parker Finn FIlm “SMILE 2”

    So now Skye must rehearse, make appearances, fit for costumes, and psych herself up for her concert in just ten days while the demon begins to plant delusions in her head. What follows is a slow descent into madness for Skye and because the film never really takes the time to humanize her, it’s hard to be on her side and root for her to survive.

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    Naomi Scott does not have the most expressive face, and it creates a resistance to trying to connect with her. She comes off as cold and unfeeling and it may be part of the character but it’s a performance that doesn’t help us want to be on her side. When she’s performing as Skye – singing and dancing – you can see that she’s made for it, and she’s prepared. She looks amazing. But it’s a horror film. I have to root for her, and I don’t. Later on, when the hauntings escalate, she begins to really express her fear and frustrations; she really works double time to show us she’s going mad. It’s a committed portrayal but she needed a softer approach early on and that is a point against the film.

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    What Finn creates are some gruesome and twisted imagery, playing off Skye’s own hurts and insecurities. He brings in the pain and the trauma from the car accident for some really strong visuals that can elicit horror. He also isn’t’ afraid to get silly, with a choreographed tableau that is equal parts frightening and funny. He keeps pushing and pushing for Skye to lose her mind and hoping that we’d all have fun seeing her break and at some point, I felt that the film may have gone far away from where it is set up to be, but it manages to turn back and deliver the ending that was needed for a film like this.

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    In the landscape of horror, ‘Smile 2’ has some vivid imagery that may find longevity as a meme but outside of its thrills in the cinema, it might just get lost in the shuffle of all the other horror films coming out this October for the month of Halloween. It’s a fun watch with a date or your barkada but it’s not something you need to rush to see.

    My Rating:

    stars 2 5



    Smile 2 is now showing! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.

  • “Hello, Love, Again” – Filipino Romance to Hit Theaters Across North America

    “Hello, Love, Again” – Filipino Romance to Hit Theaters Across North America

    ABS-CBN Films and GMA Pictures are set to captivate North American audiences with their latest romantic drama, Hello, Love, Again. Following the record-breaking success of Hello, Love, Goodbye, this highly anticipated sequel, directed by Cathy Garcia-Sampana, will hit theaters across the U.S. and Canada on November 15th, thanks to distribution partner Abramorama.

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    This milestone event will mark the widest-ever North American release of a Filipino film, showcasing the phenomenal talents of Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards as they reprise their iconic roles as Joy and Ethan.

    A Long-Awaited Reunion

    Five years have passed since Joy (Kathryn Bernardo) made the heart-wrenching decision to leave Ethan (Alden Richards) and her life in Hong Kong behind to follow her dreams in Canada. Now, Hello, Love, Again picks up as these two characters cross paths once more in Canada, where they must navigate the changes that time, distance, and personal growth have brought into their lives.

    Under the direction of Cathy Garcia-Sampana, the film delves deeper into the complexities of love, identity, and cultural pride, making this reunion more than just a romance—it’s a reflection on how love endures and evolves.

    Behind the Screenplay and Production

    Hello, Love, Again was penned by acclaimed writers Carmi Raymundo and Crystal S. San Miguel, based on a story developed by Raymundo, San Miguel, and Olivia Lamasan. The project was produced by Kookai Labayen, with Kriz Gazmen (ABS-CBN Films), Anette Gozon, and Carlo Katigbak as executive producers.

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    Speaking on the North American release, Kriz Gazmen, ABS-CBN Films Head, shared his excitement:
    “We’re thrilled to be working with Abramorama in sharing Hello, Love, Again with US and Canadian audiences and showcasing the amazing performances from Kathryn and Alden. Hello, Love, Again has a unique opportunity to connect with a wide range of audiences through its themes of cultural pride, love, and personal growth. This is the homecoming audiences deserve, and there is real excitement around how Joy and Ethan choose to end their epic story.”

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    Abramorama’s Enthusiasm for the Film

    Abramorama, a leader in film distribution, is just as excited to introduce Hello, Love, Again to a broader audience. Evan Saxon, President and Head of International Distribution at Abramorama, expressed his enthusiasm:
    “Our team is ecstatic to collaborate with ABS-CBN Films and share Hello, Love, Again with audiences in North America.  This is the perfect opportunity for our cinema partners to bring in multi-cultural audiences as the exhibition community continues to look for a more diverse slate of films for their consumers. We look forward to seeing the peer-to-peer marketing as fans post on socials how much they truly enjoy Hello, Love, Again.” 

    A Milestone in Filipino Cinema

    The success of Hello, Love, Again marks the latest achievement in a series of collaborations between ABS-CBN Films’ Star Cinema and GMA Pictures. This partnership is part of a broader initiative to strengthen content creation in the Philippines and share local stories with the world.

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    ABS-CBN Films’ Star Cinema is known for producing Rewind, the highest-grossing Filipino movie of all time, which garnered nearly $17 million at the global box office.

    With the North American release of Hello, Love, Again, Filipino cinema is set to reach new heights, offering a heartfelt narrative of love, personal growth, and cultural pride that audiences across the globe will surely embrace.

    Don’t miss the chance to experience Joy and Ethan’s epic journey on the big screen! Hello, Love, Again arrives in North American theaters on November 15th.

  • Discover the Vibrant World of Friendship and Music in Naoko Yamada’s Whimsical Film, “The Colors Within”

    Discover the Vibrant World of Friendship and Music in Naoko Yamada’s Whimsical Film, “The Colors Within”

    Naoko Yamada’s latest animated gem, The Colors Within, brings to life the touching story of three young teens, each with their own unique struggles and dreams. Totsuko, Kimi, and Rui form an unexpected bond through the power of music and shared experiences in a small seaside town. This whimsical film explores the beauty of human connection, the struggles of youth, and the vibrant colors within each of us. Mark your calendars for its release in Philippine cinemas on October 23!

    Meet the Dynamic Trio

    Totsuko

    Totsuko: Seeing the World Through Color
    Totsuko has a special gift: she sees people as colors. This ability has been with her since childhood, making the world around her a kaleidoscope of hues. Each person radiates a unique color, and it’s through these shades that she finds beauty and comfort. Her life takes a colorful turn when she meets Kimi and Rui, whose bright, personal shades add new dimensions to her world.

    Kimi

    Kimi: The Dropout with a Secret
    Though Kimi attends the same private school as Totsuko, she harbors a secret. She’s actually dropped out, hiding her reality from her grandmother by working in a local bookstore. Struggling with guilt and loneliness, Kimi’s world is gray until she forms a close-knit friendship with Totsuko and Rui. Together, their music becomes an outlet for the emotions she’s kept hidden, bringing a vibrant light back into her life.

    Rui

    Rui: The Aspiring Musician
    Rui hails from across the island, visiting the town occasionally and keeping his true passion—music—hidden from his family. Pressured to continue the family tradition of running a hospital, Rui feels trapped in a life that isn’t his own. However, through his chance encounter with Totsuko and Kimi, he finds the courage to embrace his love for music and discovers the freedom to express his true self.

    A Journey of Friendship, Music, and Self-Discovery

    The trio’s shared journey of growth is underscored by their love for music, which becomes the binding force between them. As they form a band, their unique talents and emotions come together to create something truly magical. Through Totsuko’s colorful perspective, Kimi’s search for belonging, and Rui’s musical dreams, The Colors Within paints a poignant picture of the highs and lows of teenage life.

    A Must-See on the Big Screen

    The Colors Within is more than just an animated film; it’s an emotional and visual masterpiece. Directed by Naoko Yamada, known for her work on K-On! and A Silent Voice, the film beautifully captures the tender moments of youth, with stunning animation and an evocative soundtrack that will leave audiences moved and inspired. With Akari Takaishi, Sayu Suzukawa, and Taisei Kido lending their voices to the lead characters, this is a film not to be missed.

    Catch The Colors Within in Philippine cinemas on October 23! Follow Encore Films PH on Facebook and @encorefilmsph on Instagram for the latest updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

    About the The Colors Within

    The Colors Within follows three students—Totsuko, Kimi, and Rui—who find solace and joy in one another despite the challenges they face. With Totsuko’s ability to see others’ emotions as colors, Kimi’s secret struggle with dropping out of school, and Rui’s desire to pursue music despite family expectations, the film is a heartfelt exploration of identity and friendship. Directed by Naoko Yamada and distributed by Warner Bros., this visually stunning film opens on October 23 in Philippine cinemas.