“Veteran,” the 2015 Korean blockbuster that redefined detective action, returns with its highly anticipated sequel, “I, The Executioner.” Set to deliver more intense thrills, this film follows veteran detective Seo Do-cheol (Hwang Jung-min) as he takes on a ruthless serial killer threatening the nation. Alongside him is rookie officer Park Sun-woo (Jung Hae-in), who brings new energy to the investigation.
Since its release in Korea on September 13, “I, The Executioner” has claimed the No. 1 spot at the box office, amassing over four million admissions in just six days.
A Thrilling Continuation: Detective Seo Do-cheol Returns
Director Ryoo Seung-wan, who helmed the original “Veteran,” returns to bring fans a deeper dive into the psyche of Detective Seo Do-cheol. Ryoo shared his long-time passion for the character, stating, “My affection for Seo Do-cheol has only grown, and I always wanted to explore more of his story.” The veteran detective is back to take on a bigger, more ominous threat—a serial killer who has plunged Korea into fear and uncertainty.
Hwang Jung-min’s Passion for Detective Seo Do-cheol
Hwang Jung-min, who recently won Best Actor at the Baeksang Arts Awards for “12.12: The Day,” eagerly reprises his iconic role as Seo Do-cheol. Reflecting on his return, Hwang shared, “I have sincerely wanted a sequel since we filmed ‘Veteran’ and have been waiting for a long time. Even though it’s been nine years, I hope that audiences would feel that Seo Do-chul hasn’t changed. I wanted to maintain the energy from the first film as much as possible.”
Enter Rookie Detective Park Sun-woo: A New Perspective
Joining the action-packed drama is rising star Jung Hae-in, who plays rookie detective Park Sun-woo. Park is inspired by Seo Do-cheol’s past heroics, making it his mission to serve alongside the seasoned detective. Jung describes his character as grounded in reality, stating, “In a way, the film contains a lot of realistic stories. I think it’s a movie that allows us to think about various things,” highlighting the film’s reflection of contemporary issues.
Themes That Hit Close to Home: The Harmful Influence of Media
“I, The Executioner” explores timely issues such as the dangers of dopamine-driven media, fake news, and the manipulation of public perception. Through these narratives, the film reflects the harmful duality of modern media, where algorithms dictate our realities.
Art director Han Ah-reum remarks, “‘I, the Executioner’ depicts the duality and harm of the media. Director Ryoo Seung-wan addresses the social issues of our time through his signature strength that is action.” Expect a more serious and darker exploration of crime as this sequel delves into the evolving world of digital misinformation.
Mark Your Calendar: “I, The Executioner” Opens in Philippine Cinemas on September 25
“I, The Executioner,” distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, is set to hit Philippine theaters on September 25. Get ready to witness an action-packed, socially relevant sequel that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Don’t miss out on this heart-pounding crime drama from CJ ENM!
Award-winning singer-songwriter and Himig Handog alumnus, Jeff Cifra, is marking his 42nd birthday in style with a one-of-a-kind concert event you won’t want to miss! Aptly titled “FUNK YOU @ FORTY TWO”, this concert promises an electrifying night filled with exhilarating music, captivating performances, and a whole lot of funk.
Get Ready to Funk It Up!
Jeff Cifra: FUNK YOU @ FORTY TWO The Funk Party by The Falsetto Prince Date: September 21, 2024 Time: Saturday, 8PM Venue: The Banquet Hall, The Brittany Hotel Villar City, Daang Hari, Bacoor, Cavite
A Night of Ecstatic Vocals & Nostalgic Hits
Prepare to be taken on a journey through decades of iconic tunes from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s. Jeff will be performing songs that have shaped his unique musical style, influenced by the legends of Funk, Soul, Disco, Motown, and of course, OPM. Fans can expect to groove to timeless hits, retro classics, and Jeff’s own original chart-toppers.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Jeff’s music, his signature humor and electrifying stage presence will make this a night to remember!
Special Guest Performances
Joining Jeff on this star-studded evening are a roster of sensational artists ready to set the stage on fire, including:
Stephen Yco – Upcoming livestreamer & independent musician
Mark Enriquez – Featured in Esquire Magazine’s “16 Best OPM Albums & EPs of 2023”
With very special participation from Direk Andrew “Mamu De Real”, The Father of Live Comedy Entertainment in the Philippines, this night promises to be as full of laughter as it will be of music.
Ticket Details
Be part of this exciting celebration with Diamond tickets priced at just PhP1,500! For seats, table reservations, and payment inquiries: Call or text: 09178428228 Or message Jeff via his official Facebook page HERE.
Sponsors and Partners
This extraordinary event is co-presented by The Brittany Hotel Villar City, and made possible by The Grandew Corp., MonkinPH, ICONA Elements, RV Shots Multimedia, with additional support from Joseph Canceran Lights & Sounds, Click The City, Japan Teruma Trading, and BuenasOros.
*Jeff Cifra is the first recipient of the Outstanding Performing Artist of the Year Award at the 2024 Malikhaing Bacooreño Creative Awards, proudly presented by the City Government of Bacoor and the Bacoor Arts Community.
Don’t Miss Out!
Join the party, feel the funk, and celebrate with The Falsetto Prince at Jeff Cifra: FUNK YOU @ FORTY TWO. It’s going to be a night of music, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime!
Filipino singers wanted! Universal Pictures Philippines wants aspiring singers from across the country to take a leap and submit your rendition of the song “Defying Gravity” from the hit musical “Wicked.” Winners will get a chance to sing the Philippines’ rendition of the song in a music video in the “Awiting Wicked” contest.
The official Universal Pictures Philippines TikTok account (@UniversalPicsPH) has posted the Awiting Wicked announcement and clips from the upcoming film “Wicked,” with the instrumental version of “Defying Gravity” that contestants can duet with. Entries should be tagged #AwitingWicked and entrants should set their accounts to public privacy setting so the video is visible. The promo will run from September 18 to September 29, 2024, after which thirty (30) winners will be given the chance to sing their rendition of “Defying Gravity,” and be part of the music video that will debut alongside “Wicked” as it arrives in Philippine cinemas on November 20, 2024.
After two decades as one of the most beloved and enduring musicals on the stage, Wicked makes its long-awaited journey to the big screen as a spectacular, generation-defining cinematic event.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights), Wicked is the first chapter of a two-part immersive, cultural celebration. Wicked Part Two is scheduled to arrive in theaters on November 26, 2025.
Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo (Harriet, Broadway’s The Color Purple) as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman, gilded by privilege and ambition, who has yet to discover her true heart.
The film also stars Oscar® winner Michelle Yeoh as Shiz University’s regal headmistress Madame Morrible; Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton, Fellow Travelers) as Fiyero, a roguish and carefree prince; Tony nominee Ethan Slater (Broadway’s Spongebob Squarepants, Fosse/Verdon) as Boq, an altruistic Munchkin student; Marissa Bode in her feature-film debut as Nessarose, Elphaba’s favored sister; and pop culture icon Jeff Goldblum as the legendary Wizard of Oz.
The cast of characters includes Pfannee and ShenShen, two conniving compatriots of Glinda played by Emmy nominee Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live) and Bronwyn James (Harlots); a new character created for the film, Miss Coddle, played by Tony nominee Keala Settle (The Greatest Showman) and four-time Emmy winner Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones) as the voice of Dr. Dillamond.
Wicked is produced by Marc Platt (La La Land, The Little Mermaid), whose films, television shows and stage productions have earned a combined 46 Oscar® nominations, 58 Emmy nominations and 36 Tony nominations, and by multiple Tony winner David Stone (Kimberly Akimbo, Next to Normal), with whom Platt produced the blockbuster Wicked stage musical. The executive producers are David Nicksay, Stephen Schwartz and Jared LeBoff.
Based on the bestselling novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked is adapted for the screen by the stage production’s book writer Winnie Holzman and by legendary Grammy and Oscar® winning composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz. The Broadway stage musical is produced by Universal Stage Productions, Marc Platt, the Araca Group, Jon B. Platt and David Stone.
Get ready for an exciting lineup of new movies hitting theaters this week! From the highly anticipated Transformers One and the heart-pounding thriller Never Let Go to the magical return of Coraline in Remastered 3D and Jung Kook’s inspiring journey in I Am Still, there’s something for everyone. Plus, don’t miss the epic crossover event in Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide. Whether you’re into action, animation, or documentaries, these fresh releases are perfect for your next movie night. Here’s a quick look at what you can watch this week!
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
Discover the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, two of the most iconic figures in the Transformers universe. Before they became mortal enemies, they were once like brothers, bound by a shared vision for Cybertron. But as their paths diverge, what started as friendship turns into a bitter rivalry that will forever change their planet’s fate. “Transformers One” brings you back to where it all began, blending action-packed sequences with heartfelt moments that dive into the complex relationship between these two legendary characters. If you’re a fan of the Transformers franchise, this one is a must-watch as it takes a deeper look into the backstory of your favorite robots in disguise. With a star-studded cast, including Chris Hemsworth as the voice of Optimus Prime, this action-packed adventure is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
In “Never Let Go,” a chilling force takes over the world just beyond the safety of one family’s home. A mother and her twin sons are left to face this dark entity with nothing but the strength of their familial bond and the walls that protect them. Halle Berry leads this horror-thriller as the courageous mother who will stop at nothing to protect her children from the malevolent forces closing in. Prepare for an intense experience with this film that combines elements of psychological suspense and supernatural horror. The tension builds as secrets unravel and the danger escalates, making this a perfect pick for those who love nail-biting thrillers.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 40 mins ANIMATION, FAMILY, FANTASY BUY TICKETS
The beloved stop-motion film “Coraline” is back—this time in remastered 3D! Follow the curious 11-year-old Coraline as she explores her new home and discovers a hidden door that leads to an alternate version of her life. At first, the new world seems perfect, but soon Coraline realizes that it comes with a terrifying price. She must decide whether to stay in the fantasy or return to her real life. “Coraline” has captured the hearts of both kids and adults since its original release, and now it’s more immersive than ever. With stunning visuals and an eerie yet captivating story, this is a great choice for a family movie night, especially for those who enjoy a touch of spooky fantasy.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 33 mins DOCUMENTARY, MUSIC BUY TICKETS
Fans of BTS are in for a treat with “Jung Kook: I Am Still,” a documentary that follows Jung Kook’s journey to global stardom with his debut solo album, *GOLDEN*. Featuring exclusive interviews, concert footage, and never-before-seen clips, the film offers a glimpse into the life and career of one of the world’s biggest pop stars. Watch as Jung Kook opens up about his struggles, achievements, and the unwavering support of ARMY. This documentary is a must-see for BTS fans and music lovers alike. It’s a rare opportunity to witness Jung Kook’s growth as an artist and the challenges he overcame to reach the pinnacle of global success.
Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, “Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide” tells the story of Stella, a woman who returns to her hometown after 30 years. As a child, she witnessed her father disappear in a mysterious forest, and now, decades later, she receives a call from him asking for her help. The plot thickens when Stella uncovers the secret of the Taklee Genesis, a teleportation experiment conducted at a nearby military research station. With a mix of historical intrigue and sci-fi elements, this film offers a unique storyline that takes viewers on a thrilling ride. It’s perfect for those who love action-packed adventures with a touch of mystery and science fiction.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:
Ever wondered what could go wrong on a seemingly perfect weekend getaway? Speak No Evil explores that terrifying possibility. When an American family is invited to spend a weekend at the country estate of a British couple they befriended on vacation, things quickly take a sinister turn. What starts as a dream holiday soon morphs into a twisted psychological nightmare, testing trust, boundaries, and fear. With standout performances from James McAvoy and Mackenzie Davis, this film is bound to send chills down your spine.
Get ready to say his name three times, because Beetlejuice is back! In “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” the Deetz family returns to the hauntingly familiar Winter River after a family tragedy. Lydia Deetz (played by Winona Ryder) is now a mother, and it’s her rebellious daughter, Astrid (Jenna Ortega), who stumbles upon the mysterious model of the town hidden in the attic. When Astrid accidentally opens the portal to the Afterlife, chaos ensues as the mischievous Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) is unleashed once again. This film promises a wild mix of humor, fantasy, and a bit of horror—perfect for a nostalgic trip down memory lane, with a fresh twist for new audiences.
2024 • R-16 • 2 hrs 7 mins ACTION, COMEDY, SCIENCE FICTION GET SHOWTIMES
This week’s movie releases bring a fantastic variety, from explosive action to chilling horror, and even nostalgic animation in 3D. Whether you’re a fan of heart-pounding thrillers, animated classics, or behind-the-scenes documentaries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, gather your friends, head to the nearest cinema, and get ready to be entertained. Which movie are you most excited to watch? Share your thoughts and let us know!
The latest innovations in AI have truly revolutionized the digital landscape. This is why when looking for a laptop, an AI PC is a true game-changer in both productivity and creativity.
PC powerhouse ASUS integrates this cutting-edge technology into their already impressive laptops with the new ASUS Vivobook S 15. Aside from being the brand’s first Copilot+ PC and having a Qualcomm Snapdragon X chip powering it, there are a lot of exciting features to unwrap in this AI PC from ASUS.
We recently got our hands on the ASUS Vivobook S 15 (S5507) which runs on the Snapdragon X Plus. Here are our thoughts about this new AI-powered laptop.
First Impressions
Out of the box, the ASUS Vivobook S 15 is a charmer with its 15” surface (13.88″ width x 8.93″ depth) that feels premium to the touch. It has the Cool Silver color which looks clean with just a subtle branding of “ASUS Vivobook” to give it an identity.
The hinge side of the monitor’s back panel also has a slight inward step which is always a nice touch compared to the usual fully rectangle lid of most laptops.
Pulling it out and carrying it around feels just right. It is slim and fairly light at 1.42 kg, but it also has a weight to it that feels premium and sturdy.
I also like that it has a metal chassis, which is more reassuring when I’m out and about compared to having a plastic-bodied laptop in my bag.
Add the flexibility of the device’s 180-degree hinge, and the Vivobook S 15 is a highly portable and efficient productivity companion for students, digital nomads, and workers of different setups, be it at home, onsite, or a mix of both.
Stylish RGB Keyboard & Smart Gesture Touchpad
When you open up the laptop, you’ll be greeted by the 15.6-inch display along with the keyboard and touchpad combo.
The full keyboard offers comfort and speed for both number crunchers and wordsmiths. It offers 1.7mm key travel and minimal sound, perfect for working even in shared spaces.
A dedicated AI button sits beside the arrow keys, keeping your AI tools within reach all the time. More details on this later.
While the laptop’s back panel keeps things simple, the single-zone RGB backlight of its keyboard adds flair to your setup when at work. Set the mood with your chosen color and mode, which is available in Solid Color, Strobing, Breathing, or Rainbow.
The touchpad space is quite generous and comes with smart gestures to control volume, brightness, playback speed, and window navigation.
An Ultra-Vivid OLED Display
Now onto the display, the Vivobook S 15 has a 15.6-inch 3K OLED display (2880 x 1620) with 89% screen-to-body ratio and 120Hz refresh rate.
Combining the OLED display and 3K resolution along with the 100% DCI-P3 color gamut really ups the viewing experience. The colors are vivid, contrast is crisp, and highlights just pop. Streaming videos, gaming, and doing creative work is a delight with this device.
The laptop’s brightness goes up to 600 nits. I tested it under a small shade outdoors and I can still see what I’m working on pretty clearly at maximum brightness. It also has TÜV Rheinland low blue-light certification to ensure your eyes are protected.
This laptop still has the 16:9 aspect ratio, but with this quality of display and other impressive specs and features, I don’t see it as a dealbreaker.
Display is definitely one of the Vivobook S 15’s strongest suits. Whether you’re working in a room or al fresco, this laptop delivers a punchy display to power your productivity wherever you go.
Strong Speakers, Clear Calls, and Swift Connectivity
The Vivobook S 15 comes equipped with Harman Kardon speakers to complement the vivid viewing experience.
Even with the speakers being placed on the underside of the laptop, the sound still comes out loud and clear. When elevated, the sound comes out even better. You can also fine-tune these speakers via the Dolby Access app.
The laptop’s full HD IR camera and microphone with AI Noise Cancellation allow for clearer conference calls. The camera also has a sliding shutter for added privacy and security.
For connectivity, the Vivobook S 15 is also packed with ports for your needs.
On the left are the HDMI 2.1 port, two USB4 Type-C ports with display and power support, a MicroSD card reader, and an audio jack. On the right side are two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports and indicator lights.
It also combines Wi-Fi 7 and the Qualcomm FastConnect 7800 technology for an ultra-fast internet connection while its Bluetooth allows you to use three headphones simultaneously.
Powerful & Long-Lasting Performance
Let’s talk about power and performance. The Vivobook S 15 joins the curated lineup of laptops that sport a Qualcomm Snapdragon X chip. In our case, it’s the Snapdragon X Plus, while the pricier S5507-MA032WSM variant has the more powerful Snapdragon X Elite.
Tailored for AI computing, the Snapdragon X lineup proves to be a worthy rising competitor for the Intel, AMD, and Apple M chips.
Both the Snapdragon X Plus and Elite variants of the Vivobook S 15 are also complemented by 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD for peak performance.
Multitasking with productivity tools and browsing with over ten tabs both went smoothly. I also tested video editing tools such as CapCut and DaVinci Resolve, which both worked without issues.
Casual gaming can also be a treat with this device. I played the fast-paced Hades and the 3D game Honkai Impact 3rd, and they both ran smoothly even with Max settings. I did encounter compatibility issues with the game Valorant, which just refused to launch.
I also played Honkai: Star Rail which needed a lower resolution to run without frame drops. Thanks to the OLED display though, the game still looks fantastic and bursting with vivid colors.
ASUS’ IceCool thermal technology also seems to work well, as the laptop didn’t heat up significantly after multiple hours of play and I never noticed any fan noise.
For a closer look in its performance, here are the unit’s benchmark scores while in Performance mode:
Battery life is impressive too. The 70 Wh high-capacity battery promises over 18 hours of use. In my hands-on experience, the battery went down by 10% to 12% per hour when working and streaming (80% volume and 50% brightness). When playing performance-heavy games, it went down 12% to 15% every 30 minutes.
These are with the battery’s Balanced Mode, but you can prolong the use of your laptop with the Best Power Efficiency mode.
It supports USB fast charging and upon trying it out, the laptop juiced up from zero to about 50% in just 30 minutes when not in use. When using it for work or gaming, it charged 50% after an hour.
With the Vivobook S 15, you can do your daily tasks and play casual games anywhere you go for long hours without a hitch. With its AI capabilities, you can do your tasks even faster.
Built-in AI Features
As the first Copilot+ PC from ASUS, the Vivobook S 15 streamlines work and play through its AI features in many ways. With a click of its dedicated key, the Copilot AI chatbot pops up ready to answer queries and requests. No need to go to your browser and type up ChatGPT or Gemini.
When it comes to its responses, the Copilot is often more direct and concise with its answers as long as your questions are specific. It doesn’t go off stretching what could’ve been a short answer like other AI tools seem to do frequently. That is, unless you ask it to.
Its answers are up to date, and I didn’t encounter any inaccuracies when fact-checking the data. If you need references for your research, it will also pull up links you can use. I asked it to give me links about a certain news topic, and it included the articles with thumbnails for easy navigation.
It can also generate images for your presentations or for online content use. For the best results, just keep descriptions clear. I asked it to create an image with specific details and I got it.
As expected, there are limits to how absurd, complicated, or NSFW your prompts can be to avoid abusing the technology. Don’t deliberately push the Copilot’s boundaries and you’ll be fine.
What really impresses me about Copilot though is its speed. Whether it’s answering a question or generating an image, the results are there in just a few seconds.
If you don’t want to type long questions or prompts, just use the microphone like I did, and the responses will also be read out loud by the AI with a very human-like voice. It also supports different languages. I asked it in Filipino via the microphone and it also answered with a fluent Filipino voice.
Outside the chatbox, you can also generate images from your simple drawings with the Paint app, which comes embedded with Cocreator. I just had to sign in and was instructed to download the Image Generation Extension from the Microsoft Store then everything went smoothly from there.
Make some scribbles, type in a prompt to describe it, and tweak the available settings and sliders. Cocreator will then use these as references to create an AI-generated image.
If you’re principled to avoid AI image generators like these though, there are still numerous AI features from this laptop that can boost both your human creativity and productivity.
For creatives and everyday users who always find their devices packed with photos and videos, the ASUS StoryCube app can help.
It compiles all your files from your cloud and devices and then uses AI to recognize the content to help you search, sort, and manage them. There’s nothing to worry too, as their privacy policy clearly states that all content stays in your device and won’t be transmitted elsewhere.
Live Captions is also part of this laptop’s AI arsenal. It captions and even translates calls in real time using AI. It doesn’t seem to support Filipino translation yet, but it’s pretty useful as it is not confined to any app.
You can also rely on the laptop’s AI Noise Canceling capability to keep calls clear. Meanwhile, Windows Studio Effects automatically applies improved lighting and blurred background to whatever platform you’re using, be it Zoom, Teams, Loom, or even with just your laptop’s camera app. It’s very accessible as it also shows up in the Quick Settings of your Taskbar.
For gamers, there’s also the Automatic Super Resolution which uses AI upscaling to help bridge the gap between high graphics and high frame rates for some games.
The Verdict: Highly Portable & Extremely Capable AI PC
The Vivobook S 15 has so much to offer for such a thin and lightweight laptop. It gives you the luxuries of an OLED display, powerful chipset, long-lasting battery, and the impressive AI features of a Copilot+ PC.
While some of these AI tools are available online, having them all in one place through Microsoft and Qualcomm’s trusted technology is such a boost in convenience and confidence.
Plus, its quality also meets its price point, making the ASUS Vivobook S 15 a worthy investment with its AI advantage that you can take anywhere you go.
You can now buy the new ASUS Vivobook S 15 at a price of P69,995 for the Snapdragon X Plus variant and P84,995 for the Snapdragon X Elite variant. It also comes with a free Office Home & Student 2021 and a 1 Year Microsoft 365 Personal subscription.
After your purchase, ASUS also provides peace of mind as this laptop comes with a free 4A Quality & Servicewarranty package.
Get your hands on the new ASUS Vivobook S 15 today through these stores.
Quick Specs
Display
15.6-inch 3K OLED
Processor
Snapdragon X Plus or X Elite
Graphics
Qualcomm Adreno GPU
Memory
16GB LPDDR5X
Storage
1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD
Operating System
Windows 11 Home
Battery
70WHrs, 3S1P, 3-cell Li-ion
Dimensions
13.88″ W x 8.93″ D x 0.58″ H
Weight
1.42 kg
Ports
2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A2x USB 4.0 Gen 3 Type-C (display / power delivery support)1x HDMI 2.1 TMDS1x 3.5mm Combo Audio JackMicro SD card reader
Price
P69,995 (Snapdragon X Plus); P84, 995 (Snapdragon X Elite)
What happens when death becomes your 9-to-5? From Bong Joon Ho, the visionary behind the Academy Award-winning film Parasite, comes Mickey 17 —a sci-fi thriller set to hit theaters on January 29, 2025. Robert Pattinson stars in this epic tale alongside Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo.
Written and directed by Bong Joon Ho, Mickey 17 promises to be yet another masterpiece from the director who captivated audiences worldwide with his unique blend of dark humor, social commentary, and thrilling storytelling. This time, Bong brings us into the world of Mickey Barnes, portrayed by Robert Pattinson, a man whose job requires him to die—and come back—over and over again.
Based on Edward Ashton’s novel Mickey 17, this film follows the story of Mickey Barnes, an “expendable”—a disposable employee sent on deadly missions on a distant ice planet to benefit humanity. But this time, Mickey isn’t willing to disappear quietly. Expect a gripping narrative filled with mind-bending twists, intense action, and existential questions about life, survival, and identity.
A Star-Studded Cast and Award-Winning Team
Robert Pattinson (The Batman, Tenet) leads the cast as the titular Mickey, delivering what is expected to be a career-defining performance. He’s joined by Naomi Ackie (Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker), Steven Yeun (Nope), Toni Collette (Hereditary), and Mark Ruffalo (Poor Things), making this ensemble cast one of the most exciting of 2025.
The film’s production team is just as impressive, with Oscar-winning producersDede Gardner and Jeremy Kleiner (Moonlight, 12 Years a Slave) and Bong Joon Ho himself producing. Behind the camera, Oscar-nominated cinematographerDarius Khondji (Bardo, Okja) captures the visually stunning world of Mickey 17, while Oscar-nominated production designerFiona Crombie (The Favourite, Cruella) builds it. The film is edited by Oscar nomineeYang Jinmo (Parasite), ensuring the seamless, immersive storytelling for which Bong Joon Ho is known.
Rounding out the creative team is visual effects supervisor Dan Glass (Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore), who ensures the film’s cutting-edge sci-fi visuals, and costume designer Catherine George (Okja, Snowpiercer), whose work will bring Mickey’s icy world to life.
A Story of Survival and Rebellion
At its core, Mickey 17 is a story about human resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. How far would you go to survive? And when does survival turn into rebellion? Pattinson’s Mickey will grapple with these questions as he fights against the system that sees him as nothing more than a replaceable cog in the machine.
Don’t Miss Mickey 17 – In Cinemas January 29, 2025
Warner Bros. Pictures proudly presents Mickey 17, a collaboration between Plan B Entertainment, Offscreen Production, and Kate Street Picture Company. Experience this groundbreaking film from Bong Joon Ho, only in cinemas starting January 29, 2025. Mark your calendars, and prepare for a cinematic journey like no other!
Get ready for an adventure like no other as “Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide” takes you on a thrilling ride through time and space! This highly anticipated Thai sci-fi epic follows the journey of Stella (Paula Taylor) as she returns to her rural hometown and reconnects with her father, who mysteriously vanished 30 years ago. With the help of the “Taklee Genesis” transporter, Stella, her daughter Valen (Nina Nutthatcha Padovan), and her childhood friends embark on a mission to bring him back, crossing timelines and encountering otherworldly forces along the way.
Stella (Paula Taylor) – The Fearless Protagonist Paula Taylor plays Stella, a woman torn between caring for her ailing mother and discovering the truth about her father’s disappearance. Her father’s fate is revealed when she stumbles upon the “Taklee Genesis” transporter, leading her on a perilous journey across dimensions. Drawn to the film by director Chookiat “Matthew” Sakveerakul’s immense passion, Taylor recalls, “He was just so intuitive in the way he was telling his vision and just everything. He was so passionate, and I told him ‘You know what I want? To be a part of your passion. I wanna be in whatever you’ve seen,’” she says.
Ithi (Peter Corp Dyrendal) – The Dreamer Turned Adventurer Peter Corp Dyrendal steps into the role of Ithi, a humble schoolteacher with a longing to become an archaeologist. His dreams become reality when his friend Stella unlocks the secrets of the “Taklee Genesis.” Dyrendal was immediately hooked by the project’s fresh concept. “I don’t think there’s ever been a movie like this in Thailand before. It’s a sci-fi project that includes time travels, monsters and a lot of challenges, a lot of computer graphics. I know it’s a very enticing project,” he says.
Kong (War Wanarat) – The Mysterious Resident War Wanarat portrays Kong, a local from Ban Don Hai with a perplexing secret—he appears not to have aged since Stella last saw him 30 years ago. Though Kong has no recollection of his childhood, his father fiercely protects any information about it. As a sci-fi enthusiast, War was thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking project. He shared his excitement, “I was over the moon. When Matthew first contacted me and mentioned the word ‘sci-fi,’ I told my manager, ‘Let’s do it!’ My team then said, ‘Calm down! Let’s look at the script and contract first, shall we?’ and I was like, ‘I’ve got to. I’ve just gotta be in this film.’”
Valen (Nina Nutthatcha Padovan) – The Brave Daughter Nina Nutthatcha Padovan plays Valen, Stella’s courageous daughter who joins the mission to rescue her grandfather. Valen’s bravery shines through in the film’s most intense scenes, including one unforgettable moment. “The fun part of this movie was the running. When it had dead people falling from the sky, that was so much fun, but it was scary at the same time.”
Experience the Journey of a Lifetime
“Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide” promises an extraordinary blend of action, time travel, and breathtaking CGI that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Don’t miss out on this groundbreaking film as it arrives in Philippine cinemas on September 18! Get ready to immerse yourself in this world of sci-fi wonder and heart-pounding adventure.
Join the conversation and share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #TakleeGenesis!
Subway® brings the happy hour vibe to everyone’s taste buds with the Smoky Malt BBQ Pulled Pork sub! This newest offering is available in all Subway® restaurants nationwide until November 19, 2024.
This mouthwatering masterpiece features tender pulled pork generously topped with rich, smoky malt bbq sauce, savoury cheddar cheese, and a medley of crisp, fresh veggies, including lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, pickles, green pepper, and white onions layered in for a satisfying crunch that will surely turn any hour into a happy hour.
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Freshly prepared every day, the new Smoky Malt BBQ Pulled Pork sub is inspired by our well-loved beverage to bring cheers to a happy hour with every bite!
Just when you thought happy hour couldn’t get happier, Subway® guests can enjoy a FREE exclusive Subway x A&W coaster for every purchase of a Smoky Malt BBQ Pulled Pork regular meal with choices from 6-inch, footlong, or wrap. This offer is available on Mondays and Thursdays from 2pm to 5pm.
On weekends, indulge in the Subway® bundle offer, which includes two (2) Smoky Malt BBQ Pulled Pork subs or wraps, paired with two (2) smooth A&W Root Beers, and two (2) exclusive coasters. This happy hour offer is ideal for friends and family looking to savor the rich flavors together while enjoying a refreshing beverage and a unique keepsake. This is available at participating restaurants for takeout only on Saturdays and Sundays from 2pm to 5pm.
The Subway® Smoky Malt BBQ Pulled Pork sub and the associated offers are available until November 19, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to experience this limited-time delight that’s sure to become your newest happy hour craving. Head to any Subway® restaurant near you to experience happy hour anytime today! For more information, visit Subway® Philippines’ official social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram
From the visionary director of the beloved anime series “K-On!,” Naoko Yamada brings another heartwarming masterpiece to life with her latest film, “The Colors Within.” Set to open in the Philippines on October 23, this beautifully crafted anime film invites viewers to embark on an unforgettable journey of friendship, music, and the vibrant emotions that color our world.
A Vibrant Tale of Friendship
At the heart of “The Colors Within” is Totsuko, an ordinary high school student with an extraordinary gift—she can see the colors of people’s emotions. These colors help her understand the inner worlds of those around her, each hue representing a unique feeling. But her favorite color belongs to her classmate Kimi, who exudes a beautiful shade that resonates deeply with Totsuko.
As their bond strengthens, Totsuko, Kimi, and a quiet but talented classmate named Rui form a band. Their shared love for music becomes the canvas on which they paint their emotional journeys, creating melodies that reflect their deepest thoughts and connections.
A Global Sensation
“The Colors Within” first captivated audiences when it made its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France. Critics praised its emotional depth, captivating animation, and enchanting musical score. It was quickly recognized as a standout in its genre, winning the prestigious Golden Goblet Award for Best Animation Film at the 2024 Shanghai International Film Festival.
A Cinematic Experience Like No Other
Naoko Yamada’s signature style shines through in “The Colors Within,” combining poignant storytelling with stunning visuals. Known for her delicate portrayal of emotions in series like “K-On!,” Yamada takes viewers on an evocative journey, blending the universal language of music with the complex, colorful world of human emotions.
With a visually stunning palette and a heartfelt narrative, “The Colors Within” promises to be a cinematic experience that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.
Save the Date – October 23!
Don’t miss your chance to see this highly anticipated anime film as it makes its Philippine debut in cinemas on October 23. Whether you’re a fan of “K-On!” or simply in search of a moving story about friendship and music, “The Colors Within” is a must-see.
For the latest updates on the film, including behind-the-scenes content and special features, follow Encore Films PH on Facebook and Instagram (@encorefilmsph).
The first three episodes of the upcoming Disney+ streaming show, ‘Seoul Busters,’ features irreverent humor that goes no-holds barred with its humor and comedy. Unlike other comedic K-drama cop shows that takes its storylines seriously while dropping comic moments and funny dialogue here and there, ‘Seoul Busters’ is more about having fun and cracking jokes at almost every turn. It feels more like a situational comedy than a comedic cop serial, which means that it has a different flavour but is still distinctly a K-drama.
The 12-episode show is about the worst performing squad in the violent crimes police squad. They include Moo Jung-ryeok (Park Ji-Hwan), who is a tough talking, hot-headed, former member of the National Boxing team; Jeong Jeong-hwan (Seo Hyun-woo), an obsequious detective who is always pandering to anyone of authority; Seo Min-seo (Park Se-wan), the only woman in the group who is as tough talking as the guys but is secretly hiding her longing for a boyfriend; and the rookie, Jang Tan-sik (Lee Seung Woo), who appears to be not very bright or not at all capable but is extremely enthusiastic and eager to be helpful.
Combined, they form the lowest-rank squad and are a constant pain to their superintendent. It’s so bad that they were forced to relocate in a former day care center when their office was up for renovation. The visual comedy of these tough talking police detectives trying to work in the setting of a day care center. The building interiors are colorful, there’s a ball pool, a slide, and most of the chairs are built for children. In two episodes of the first three episodes, there’s an interrogation scene where they are in a room with tiny chairs and tables and the Moo Jung-ryeok and the suspect have to play out an interrogation scene while sitting in seats made for children. The idea of it is hilarious.
Things change when a new captain is brought into play. Enter Dongban Yu-bin (Kim Dong-wook). He’s smart, capable, and multi-awarded and while he was set for a job at the administrative level, he requested to be transferred to violent crimes as he feels he still has much to learn on the field. He is perfect in every way, entering a crime scene and observing little details that is shown to the audience by subtitles popping out with every detail that catches his attention. He has relatively poor social skills, though, and as he is assigned to the squad, Moo Jung-ryeok immediately dislikes him, Jeong Jeong-hwan tries to get to his good side, Seo Min-seo is fighting her growing feelings for him, and Jang Tan-sik is trying his best to still be helpful.
The first episode of the 12-episode series is set to establish the characters and the milieu and introduces us to the first case. The second and third episode shows the detectives at work, trying to solve the case and getting into hilarious shenanigans while playing out the dynamics of the new team. The first case gets resolved by the end of episode three before they introduce a new case, so it seems that the show may take on an episodic structure with the goal of seeing if Dongban Yu-bin has what it takes to raise the squad from the lowest to the level of even being competent.
While the first case is solved through some detective work, the intricacy of the crime is revealed so it creates a whodunit structure, the show is really more focused on the humor aspect. It is not afraid to go highbrow or even low brow (sometimes even veering into toilet humor). It seems nothing is off limits at the moment and so how the show will continue to evolve will be quite interesting.
For some reason, the show reminds me of ‘Brooklyn 99’ and if the humor continues in this vein, it’s going to be a fun 12 episodes.
My Rating:
SEOUL BUSTERS is now streaming on Disney+. Watch it here.
