Prepare yourself for the most anticipated showdown of the year! The final chapter in the Venom trilogy, Venom: The Last Dance, is heading to Philippine cinemas on October 23, and tickets are officially on sale. This is your chance to be among the first to witness the explosive end to Venom’s saga!
Tom Hardy is back as the iconic anti-hero, ready to deliver a high-octane performance that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Will Eddie Brock and Venom survive their ultimate test? One thing’s for sure—you don’t want to miss it!
A Featurette You Can’t Miss
If you thought you’ve seen it all, think again! Venom’s surprising rap skills are on full display in a hilarious new featurette. Check it out here:
Secure Your Seats Today!
Avoid the last-minute rush and book your tickets early! Visit your favorite local cinema’s ticketing website to reserve your spot for Venom: The Last Dance. As this is the final movie in the series, fans are expected to fill theaters fast, so don’t delay!
About Venom: The Last Dance
In this heart-pounding finale, Tom Hardy reprises his role as Venom, one of Marvel’s most complex and misunderstood anti-heroes. The stakes have never been higher, as Eddie Brock and his alien symbiote are hunted relentlessly by enemies from both their worlds. Forced into a life-altering decision, the duo must confront their fate head-on. Will they survive, or is this truly their last dance?
Produced by Marvel and Sony heavyweights such as Avi Arad, Matt Tolmach, Amy Pascal, Kelly Marcel, Tom Hardy, and Hutch Parker, Venom: The Last Dance promises an unforgettable cinematic experience. The film is distributed by Columbia Pictures in the Philippines, the local arm of Sony Pictures Releasing International.
Mark your calendars! Venom: The Last Dance debuts in Philippine cinemas on October 23, 2024. Join the conversation online with the hashtag #Venom and tag @columbiapicph to share your excitement!
Yesterday, Manila welcomed the opening of “Request sa Radyo,” a unique theatrical experience that delves deep into the echoes of solitude through the meticulous nightly routine of a solitary woman. Staged at the prestigious Samsung Performing Arts Theatre in Makati City, this play offers a profound exploration of quiet introspection and the hidden yearnings for connection. With internationally revered talents Lea Salonga and Dolly De Leon alternating in the solo performance, this limited engagement is set to redefine theatrical storytelling in the Philippines.
The strictly limited engagement, featuring 20 performances, began on October 10 and will run until October 20, 2024, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre in Makati City, Philippines. Lea Salonga and Dolly De Leon will take turns performing the solo piece in scheduled alternating performances.
The Essence of Solitude
Crafting Emotions Without Words Franz Xaver Kroetz’s “Request Program” captures the essence of solitude through the meticulous routine of a solitary woman. Her interaction with a radio program unfurls layers of profound loneliness, portraying how isolation deeply embeds itself in human existence. This narrative beautifully converts mundane activities into a captivating exploration of the human condition, leaving the audience with lingering thoughts on the complexities of solitude.
Conversation in Spotlight – a talk moderated by Clint Ramos alongside Lea Salonga and Dolly de Leon
Stellar Cast, Stellar Performance
Featuring a duo of the Philippines’ most celebrated actors, this production sees Salonga and De Leon in alternating solo performances. Each brings their unique interpretation to the stage, enriched by their vast experiences and international acclaim. This casting choice alone makes “Request sa Radyo” a monumental event in Philippine theater.
Lea Salonga: A Global Icon Lea Salonga, a beloved Filipino star renowned worldwide for her unparalleled voice and perfect pitch, has captivated audiences for decades. Her illustrious career includes iconic roles in Miss Saigon and Les Misérables, earning her both a Tony Award and an Olivier Award. Salonga’s undeniable talent and global reach make her a true icon in the world of theater. Reflecting on her involvement in Request Sa Radyo, she enthused, “When I was asked by Clint and Bobby if I was interested at all in this project, an experience that told a probable and possible story that absolutely applies to our people, I said sure, even before knowing the details. It will be a challenge though, but hopefully, it will lend a figurative voice to those who are suffering.”
Dolly De Leon: A Rising International Sensation Dolly De Leon, a celebrated actress in film, television, and theater, has swiftly emerged as a global sensation. Her breakthrough role in the critically acclaimed film “EO” earned her Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations, solidifying her status as one of the most sought-after actresses in the world. De Leon’s versatility and passion for her craft shine through in every performance. She expressed her excitement about returning to the stage, saying, “I’m so looking forward to coming back to my first love, the theatre, after five long years, and I am equally excited that it is in Request Sa Radyo—a play that is relevant and timely.”
Behind the Scenes
A Creative Team Like No Other The genius behind the curtain includes Clint Ramos and Bobby Garcia, whose visions for the play have set new benchmarks in theatrical storytelling. Ramos, a 6-time Tony Award nominee and recipient of a Tony Award for his designs in Eclipsed—making him the first designer of color to win in this category—brings his innovative design philosophy to the production, ensuring that every aspect resonates with thematic depth.
Garcia, a respected figure in the world of theatre, returns to Manila after a four-year hiatus to direct the play with a fresh perspective on loneliness and isolation—themes that are poignantly relevant today. Reflecting on his homecoming project, Request Sa Radyo, Garcia shared, “The last show I worked on in Manila was The Band’s Visit, which sadly never got to open because of the pandemic.
It was a poignant musical about loneliness, isolation, and the need for human connection. It feels almost like fate that I now return to Manila after four years to direct Request Sa Radyo, a chilling and haunting piece of theatre about those very same issues, but completely different in approach, form, and style. I am thrilled to be working with two of the country’s finest performers, Lea Salonga and Dolly De Leon, who will alternate in performing this unique theatrical experience about our universal need for human contact and the global crisis that is loneliness. I am also thrilled to reconnect with Manila audiences after some time away and re-engage with them through the art of storytelling.”
Experience the Unspoken
Engage in a Unique Theatrical Exploration “Request sa Radyo” goes beyond traditional theater by offering a space to reflect on the silent struggles of everyday life. It challenges the audience to find meaning in silence and to connect with the undercurrents of solitude that we often overlook.
With a strictly limited run from October 10 to October 20, 2024, tickets are expected to be in high demand. Audience members are encouraged to secure their seats early to experience this unique and transformative theatrical event.
For more information on ticketing and showtimes, visit the Request Sa Radyo’s website or follow the show’s updates on Instagram and Facebook. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this extraordinary blend of talent and narrative, where every silent moment speaks volumes.
It’s great to see director Randolph Longjas back to making full-length features. I remember seeing ‘Star na si Van Damme Stallone’ many years ago and being absolutely moved by the film. His latest movie, ‘Mujigae’ is his first feature-length film since 2016, and the warmth and tenderness are still there. In ‘Mujigae,’ he tackles and explores the idea of motherhood, in all its many forms, while also navigating the complex emotions around family and how the Filipino family is affected by economic factors that trigger separation due to immigration and finding better opportunities abroad.
The movie is centered on a 5-year-old girl called Mujigae (Ryrie Sophia), who is orphaned in South Korea when her mother, Rainalyn (Anna Luna) passes away. Her Korean father (Kim Jisoo) is nowhere to be found and she moves back to the Philippines to live with her grandfather (Richard Quan) and her aunt Sunny (Alexa Ilacad).
While the film is centered on the titular character, the film’s true protagonist is Sunny. Sunny is young woman with a lot of anger in her heart. She has a strained relationship with her sister Reinalyn, and the sudden appearance and inclusion of Mujigae into her life is a stark reminder of a painful past and heavy emotions. Her relationship with her father is also strained and this weaves into everything. Her friends and workmates at a salon, played with such warmth and pitch-perfect tonality by Donna Cariaga and Kate Alejandrino, are both positive about their ideas on motherhood. Cariaga’s Sushmita has several children already and is pregnant with another. Alejandrino’s character is hoping to get pregnant after several miscarriages. On the opposite end, Sunny doesn’t want to have children, rooted on her own relationship with her family. And so, the arrival of Mujigae amplifies all these emotions.
Longjas, alongside screenwriter Mark Raywin Tome, take their time setting up the story and establishing the characters and the world of their film. They carefully build up Sunny’s character and her relationship with her father, her friends, and with her new niece and really focus on pushing every button on Sunny’s character pushing her to the brink. It can drag out quite a bit, but it is necessary because the moment Sunny finds a moment to set aside past hurts and to really reconcile her feelings about her sister does the story take a turn and Sunny and Mujigae’s new journey bring the film to a different path.
There’s a lot of twists and turns in the film, as the trailer suggests that even Mujigae’s father comes back to turn the film around all over again. Kim Jisoo’s performance, coming quite late in the movie, invigorates the film at its tail-end, adding a strong presence that adds to the complications. That third act is really the meat of the film, and I wish there was more of it. The first two acts – the arrival of Mujigae into Sunny’s life and Sunny and Mujigae forming a bond – could have been shortened so that it could really play out the third act’s more complex emotional beats. There’s guilt and remorse and regret and hope that’s found in that crucial third act and while it’s done well; I feel that it could have sped through the first two acts and really lingered in the third.
But aside from its slow pacing, what makes ‘Mujigae’ shine is how Filipino the film is – from its tone to the way it examines and questions its idea of family and family obligations – and how it is unafraid to make its statements about motherhood, which I am still 50-50 on, but I am impressed by the conviction that the film has on the matter. It’s also supported by such powerful performances. Alexa Ilacad is a star in the making. I’ve seen her captivate a whole theater in ‘Walang Aray’ and she delivers that same presence here. The best scenes are when Ilacad, Cariaga, and Alejandrino are together, just being women, and talking about their lives. It’s such a tender, intimate moment that feels natural and just right. It’s moments like these that are so relatable and honest and authentic.
‘Mujigae’ is set in the Filipino melodrama mode. It has a warm, beautiful heart that is meant to really reach out and touch the Filipino audience. It has things to say about motherhood and family and presents it in a story that is tailor-fit for the Pinoy audience.
My Rating:
Mujigae is now showing! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.
“The Forge,” the latest release from the Kendrick Brothers – the creative team behind the No. 1 box-office hit “War Room,” as well as “Overcomer,” “Courageous” and “Fireproof” – will be showing exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas starting October 9.
Directed and co-written by Alex Kendrick, “The Forge” is sure to inspire discipleship and prayerfulness as it tells the story of a young man named Isaiah Wright. A year out of high school with no plans for his future, Isaiah is challenged by his single mom and a successful businessman to start charting a better course for his life. Through the prayers of his mother and her friend Miss Clara, as well as biblical discipleship from his new mentor, Isaiah begins to discover God’s purpose for his life is so much more than he could hope for or imagine.
In “The Forge,” moviegoers will find themselves reconnecting with characters and actors they’ve known and loved as they dive into a compelling new story that is certain to inspire and challenge people to grow deeper in their faith.
Priscilla Shirer plays twin sisters Elizabeth Jordan (reprising her role from “War Room”) and Cynthia Wright in “The Forge”
Priscilla Shirer, an internationally known Bible teacher, plays Cynthia, mom of Isaiah. “It seems like a privilege that the Lord is allowing us this opportunity to do what we consider to be ministry together as a family,” says Shirer, a familiar face to fans of the Kendrick Brothers, having starred in their previous work “War Room.”
Karen Abercrombie plays Miss Clara in “The Forge”
Sure to be a fan favorite is prayer warrior Miss Clara, played by Karen Abercrombie. “Oh, it’s wonderful, just to step back into her shoes, put her wig back on,” shares Abercrombie. “She really has been one of my favorite characters to play for many reasons. The opportunity to take the message of prayer around the world, the importance of it and the power of it. Just being able to embody that character again, breathe life back into her again, it’s quite wonderful for me.”
Cameron Arnett plays Joshua Moore in “The Forge”
Cameron Arnett plays the important character of Joshua, mentor to Isaiah. Says Arnett, “Whenever I get an opportunity to testify of the Kendricks, what I say about their set is that it’s like a slice of heaven. This is what Christianity is supposed to be like. This is what the church is supposed to be like. The synergy, the oneness, the seamlessness, the prayer, the camaraderie, the laughter, the joy, the celebration of other people. I mean, all of those things just kind of come readily on the set.”
In the movie, Isaiah Wright, the young man whose story is being told in “The Forge,” crosses paths with Joshua, the owner of Moore Fitness, who offers Isaiah a job with one stipulation: they meet together regularly in a mentoring relationship.
Aspen Kennedy plays Isaiah Wright in “The Forge”
Bringing life to Isaiah is newcomer Aspen Kennedy. “Isaiah has so many centerpieces around him – his mom, his friends, basketball,” says Kennedy. “But in a way he’s still trying to overcompensate his confidence because he lacked that father figure… I love Isaiah’s journey. I love how he goes from not having that father figure to meeting Joshua and just really taking off from there because he wants to be poured into; he lacks that, so it’s a beautiful journey to experience.”
The mentoring relationship between Joshua and Isaiah is one of the most inspiring parts of the film. Audiences get to see the relationship between the two deepening as Joshua moves from mentoring to discipling Isaiah – guiding the younger man to grow in his faith.
The young Kennedy says it best: “I definitely want the audience to take away the power of forgiveness, the power of letting go. It’s the power of pouring into others, the power of investing in others, and just really understanding that we should think less of ourselves because that’s the posture that we can serve others best.”
Why The Forge?
Director Alex explains the movie’s title. “Spiritually speaking, when the Lord puts us in a forge, He works on us spiritually, to build and grow and sharpen our faith, our character, our beliefs,” Alex says. “Sometimes that comes through a level of pressure, a level of spiritual heat, if you will. And so we titled this movie ‘The Forge’ because of what it does to us spiritually.”
Offering a wide array of choices and diverse content is one of the commitments of Ayala Malls Cinemas to its patrons, movie lovers who go to the cinemas to watch movies the best way possible – on the big screen. From big blockbusters to critically acclaimed independent features to niche titles such as the faith-based “The Forge,” Ayala Malls Cinemas has something for everyone.
No matter what genre they choose, movie lovers get to have an enhanced movie-watching experience, thanks to state-of-the-art facilities, including plush seating, generous legroom, cutting-edge laser projections, and superior audio technologies like Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos. And what movie time is complete without snacks? At the Movie Snackbar, guests can enjoy different-flavored popcorn, hotdog sandwiches and cold drinks for a chill and relaxing movie-watching experience.
For more information on screening schedules and to book tickets for “The Forge” and other titles, movie enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the Ayala Malls Cinemas FB and IG pages and www.sureseats.com
Prepare to grow in faith and be inspired. Watch “The Forge,” now showing exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas.
Photo and Video Credit: CrystalSky Entertainment / Ayala Malls Cinemas
The director of captivating absurdist films such as ‘The Lobster’ and ‘The Favourite’ and ‘Poor Things,’ Yorgos Lanthimos goes deeper into the absurdity with his latest film, the triptych ‘Kinds of Kindness,’ which opened to limited release worldwide before finding its way to Disney+. At 164 minutes, the anthology of three loosely related short films (connected mostly by theme) feature actors that the director has worked with in the past – Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, Margaret Qualley, Joe Alwyn – as well as Jesse Plemons, Hong Chau, and Mamoudou Athie all playing different characters in each of the three segments.
In the first segment, “The Death of RMF,” Plemons plays a man whose life is controlled down to its most tiniest details by Willem Defoe’s eccentric wealthy corporate overlord-type. The relationship between Plemons and Defoe is romantic, though Plemons’ character is married to Hong Chau and Defoe is living with a woman (Qualley). When Plemons is unable to carry out a task that he was instructed to do, he is cut off from Defoe and he finds himself lost and directionless until he meets Emma Stone’s character, who seems strangely familiar.
“RMF is Flying” is the second segment where Plemons plays a policeman who is distracted by the loss of his wife (Emma Stone) who is missing out at sea. But when she is found and returns home, Plemons begins to suspect that the woman who looks like his wife is not his wife. As the policeman tries to keep his distance, the wife will do anything to try and convince him that she’s really her. Things take a very bloody turn as the policeman makes unbelievable demands.
The final piece, “RMF Eats a Sandwich” centers around Emma Stone’s character who is working for a cult, led by Willem Dafoe and Hong Chau. Stone, along with Plemons, goes around the city searching for a messiah-like figure but secretly, she takes trips to visit her home to leave gifts for her daughter. When she is spotted by her daughter and her husband (Joe Alwyn), one thing leads to another and she finds herself breaking the tenets of the cult just as she is about to come face-to-face with the messiah (Margaret Qualley).
All three stories are told with the signature style of Lanthimos, with the cinematography and musical score that is set to distort your experience of the story by highlighting the weirdness of each scene. The dialogue is more reminiscent with Lanthimos’ older work like ‘The Lobster’ and ‘Killing of the Sacred Deer’ as the film reunites him with his co-writer Efthimis Filippou, who has a gift for creating extremely stilted, awkward dialogue as evidenced by the movies aforementioned. In ‘Kinds of Kindness,’ the literal, non-nonsensical word and phrase choices are apparent, but the actors are able to deliver it with more emotion than in ‘The Lobster’ or ‘Killing of a Sacred Deer.’ But with all these cinematic elements working in conjunction, the film is intellectually demanding as one has to really peel off the layers of artifice to get at the meat of the films.
It’s the leaning into the formalist aesthetic that Yorgos Lanthimos is really an expert at and it makes his films so enjoyable because they come off as really unexpected and irreverent, which makes them really, really funny. It’s a deadpan humor that forces you to just laugh because otherwise you’d feel bad about yourself because what these movies have in common – the interconnected theme that weaves in and out of the three films – is the dangerous determination of the human spirit. In all three films, the main characters – Plemons in the first two movies, Stone in the final one – all are driven to the point of being blinded to anything else like logic, morals, dignity, rationality. There’s a passionate need that drives these characters forward and they come bulldozing into every moment and creates more havoc and chaos that creates a cynical and jaded look into modern human nature.
Lanthimos creates a satire with ‘Kinds of Kindness,’ and he is making fun of all of us with our unyielding loyalty to the things we hold dear: religion, idols, conspiracy theories. What makes it all work is that he never takes it too seriously but his actors manage to make it all feel so real without every losing the tonality of the film being a satire set in the absurdist mode.
I’ve been told, ‘Kinds of Kindness’ is Lanthimos’ English work that feels closest to his Greek work and I’m glad for a taste of it (as his earlier Greek films are hard to come by over streaming). I love his other works, though, with Poor Things being one of my favorite cinematic experiences last year. While watching Kinds of Kindness on my iPad via Disney+ may not be ideal, the fact that it is less of a spectacle and more of an intellectual exercise makes it suitable for the medium.
My Rating:
KINDS OF KINDNESS is now streaming on Disney+. Watch it here and experience the absurd brilliance of Yorgos Lanthimos!
A decades-old mystery resurfaces in “SANA: Let Me Hear”, the latest horror masterpiece from renowned director Takashi Shimizu, the mind behind “The Grudge (Ju-On).” Prepare yourself for a chilling journey into the unknown when the film hits Philippine cinemas on November 13.
A Tragedy That Never Died
Set in 1992, SANA: Let Me Hear opens with a fatal rooftop confrontation between schoolgirls. One of them, Sana, accidentally falls to her death in front of her peers. A strange clue remains—her cassette recorder, found next to her body, still running. The eerie recording sparks the beginning of a haunting tale that refuses to fade.
Fast forward 32 years, and a new summer brings new horrors. Honoka, a young woman hired to teach at the same school, witnesses history repeating itself when another student falls from the very same rooftop, right in front of her and two of her students, Hitomi and Takeru.
The Mystery Deepens
As Honoka, Hitomi, and Takeru delve into the strange circumstances surrounding the recent death, they uncover the tragic history of Sana. The further they investigate, the more they become entangled in the sinister events surrounding the mysterious girl. Could Sana’s spirit still haunt the school? And is she the cause of these terrifying incidents—or merely a victim?
The tension builds as the trio discovers unsettling truths about the decades-old tragedy that refuses to be forgotten.
A Stellar Cast
SANA: Let Me Hear stars popular NMB48 idol Nagisa Shibuya in the lead role of Honoka. She is joined by Hayase Ikoi as Hitomi and Soma Santoki as Takeru. Santoki recently lent his voice to the lead character Mahito in Studio Ghibli’s latest animated sensation “The Boy and the Heron.”
With its talented cast, gripping storyline, and bone-chilling atmosphere, SANA: Let Me Hear promises to be an unforgettable horror experience for fans of the genre.
Mark Your Calendars
Experience the terror for yourself when SANA: Let Me Hear arrives in Philippine cinemas on November 13. Don’t miss out on this gripping tale of fear, mystery, and the supernatural.
Follow Encore Films PH on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates, trailers, and exclusive content!
Ready to add some excitement to your midweek plans? This week’s movie lineup brings a fresh lineup of thrilling new releases, perfect for a movie night or a weekend escape! From pulse-pounding action in Aftermath to an alien invasion in Alien Country, there’s no shortage of suspense and excitement. If you’re into chills, Bagman is set to deliver spine-tingling scares, while Bocchi The Rock! Recap Part 1 offers anime lovers a delightful mix of music and comedy. For those looking for deeper stories, Mujigae and The Forge bring emotional family dramas to the forefront, while The Wild Robot is the perfect family-friendly adventure and the bonus premiere of Jung Kook: I Am Still – The Party Edition coming on October 11. Which one will you see first? Don’t miss out—grab your movie squad, score that extra-buttered popcorn, and watch the movies hitting theaters near you!
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 35 mins ACTION, THRILLER GET SHOWTIMES
If you’re in the mood for an edge-of-your-seat action thriller, Aftermath is the one to watch. Dylan Sprouse stars as Eric Daniels, a former Army Ranger trapped on Boston’s Tobin Bridge, along with hundreds of commuters and a high-profile prisoner, after a group of heavily armed ex-military contractors takes over the bridge.
With time running out and lives at stake, Eric must use his military training and instincts to protect his teenage sister and the hostages from the ruthless leader (Mason Gooding) of the armed group. Expect non-stop action and intense drama in this high-stakes thriller.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 36 mins SCIENCE FICTION GET SHOWTIMES
Looking for something a bit out of this world? Alien Country is here to satisfy your sci-fi cravings. This film follows a demolition derby mechanic who must stop an alien invasion to save humanity—and his pregnant girlfriend—from destruction.
With plenty of action, humor, and extraterrestrial chaos, Alien Country brings a fun and wild energy to the big screen. Rachele Brooke Smith and K.C. Clyde lead the cast in this exciting sci-fi adventure that brings thrills and a touch of romance. If you love alien invasion films, this is one you won’t want to miss!
2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 32 mins HORROR, THRILLER GET SHOWTIMES
For fans of horror and suspense, Bagman introduces a terrifying legend brought back to life. The movie follows Patrick McKee (Sam Claflin), a man who narrowly escaped the mythical Bagman as a child. This creature has haunted cultures for centuries, snatching children and taking them away in his rotting bag, never to be seen again.
Years later, Bagman returns, threatening Patrick’s family—his wife, Karina, and their son, Jake. With its chilling atmosphere and unsettling premise, Bagman is a horror thriller that will leave you gripping your seat. Prepare for some serious scares!
2024 • PG • 1 hr 30 mins ANIMATION, COMEDY, MUSIC GET SHOWTIMES
Fans of anime and music are in for a treat with Bocchi The Rock! Recap Part 1. This animated comedy follows Hitori Gotoh, a shy and introverted high school student who dreams of becoming a rock star.
Despite her anxiety and social struggles, Hitori’s guitar skills catch the attention of Nijika, the drummer of Kessoku Band. As Hitori begins to break out of her shell and experience life in a band, the film explores friendship, personal growth, and the power of music. Bocchi The Rock! is the perfect pick if you’re looking for something lighthearted and uplifting.
Mujigae offers a touching drama that explores the complexities of family, culture, and identity. After losing her Filipino mother in South Korea, 5-year-old Mujigae is sent to live with her estranged Aunt Sunny in the Philippines.
As they both navigate grief and cultural differences, they slowly form a bond that helps them heal and grow. Starring Kim Ji-soo and Alexa Ilacad, this film provides an emotional and poignant story about embracing change and discovering strength through family. Mujigae is a beautiful, heartfelt watch that will resonate deeply with audiences.
2024 • PG • 2 hrs 2 mins DRAMA, FAMILY GET SHOWTIMES
In The Forge, 19-year-old Isaiah Wright is stuck in life—he has no job, no plans, and no direction. His mother gives him an ultimatum: step up or move out. Isaiah’s life takes a turn when he’s hired at Moore Fitness, where he meets a mentor who pushes him to confront his past and find a greater purpose.
This coming-of-age drama touches on themes of personal growth, faith, and resilience. With powerful performances from Aspen Kennedy Wilson and Priscilla Shirer, The Forge is an inspiring and thought-provoking story about taking control of your future.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 41 mins ANIMATION, FAMILY, SCIENCE FICTION GET SHOWTIMES
For a film that’s perfect for families, The Wild Robot delivers an exciting, heartwarming tale. After a shipwreck, Roz, an intelligent robot, finds herself stranded on a remote island. To survive, she forms unlikely friendships with the island’s animals, caring for an orphaned baby goose and learning the true meaning of family.
Voiced by an all-star cast, including Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, and Kit Connor, The Wild Robot is a visually stunning animated film that explores themes of survival, community, and kindness. This film is an absolute must-watch for families looking for an adventure that’s both thrilling and touching.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 52 mins CONCERT, MUSIC GET SHOWTIMES
BTS fans, get ready for the ultimate celebration! Jung Kook: I Am Still – The Party Edition brings the hit movie back to theaters with a bonus 20-minute singalong feature. Experience Jung Kook’s electrifying concert performances, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments like never before—this time, with a singalong to hits like “Seven (feat. Latto),” “3D (feat. Jack Harlow),” and “Standing Next to You.”
Gather your fellow ARMY members for one last chance to see Jung Kook shine on the big screen, capturing his rise to global stardom and heartfelt moments with fans. It’s a cinema party you won’t want to miss!
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still playing in cinemas – catch them before they’re gone! Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:
2024 • PG • 1 hr 43 mins ACTION, ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, FAMILY, SCIENCE FICTION GET SHOWTIMES
This week’s movies offer a little bit of everything—action-packed thrillers, sci-fi spectacles, emotional dramas, and fun animated adventures. Whether you’re looking for edge-of-your-seat suspense or heartwarming stories, there’s no shortage of entertainment at the cinema this week. Plus, K-pop fans can look forward to a party event with Jung Kook: I Am Still! Which one are you adding to your watchlist?
What started as a simple SMS money transfer has exploded into the financial super app that Filipinos can’t live without! For 20 years, GCash has been rolling out feature after feature, making life easier, faster, and more inclusive for everyone.
From sending money in seconds to paying bills, shopping, and even investing, GCash has completely transformed how we handle money. And guess what? These 20 game-changing features are just a taste of what GCash has to offer! There’s a whole world of services in the app waiting to be explored. Ready to dive into some of the crowd favorites? Let’s begin!
1. SMS Money Transfer This is where it all began! Picture this: it’s 2004, flip phones are the hottest gadgets, and texting is the way to stay connected. Then GCash swoops in and changes the game, letting people send and receive money with a simple SMS/text! GCash made moving money as easy as texting a friend, opening the door to financial freedom for millions. Who knew sending cash could be as easy as sending “LOL”?
2. Buy Load By 2012, smartphones were everywhere, and GCash was right there, keeping up with the times. Enter Buy Load. Now you can reload your prepaid credits anytime, anywhere, straight from your phone! No more rushing to the sari-sari store for load. Today, more than prepaid load, you can also top up mobile data, promos, and other prepaid services like Cignal TV, Konsulta MD, and more. Life just got a whole lot more convenient!
3. Pay Bills Long lines at payment centers? Not here! In 2012, GCash’s Pay Bills feature turned your phone into a personal cashier, letting you pay for everything from electric bills to tuition without leaving home. Missed deadlines? Never again! Just a few taps, and you’re all set. With over 1,900+ billers all in the app to date, how is that for leveling up your money game?
4. Scan-to-Pay QR Remember when cashless payments felt like something out of the future? GCash brought it to life in 2017 with Scan-to-Pay QR, the first of its kind in the Philippines. It made its debut when Globe Telecom’s President and CEO, Ernest Cu, used it for the first-ever payment at Mini Stop (now Uncle John’s). No more scrambling for change, just scan, pay, and go. GCash was at the forefront of the cashless revolution, making shopping faster, easier, and way more fun.
5. eKYC (Electronic Know-Your-Customer) Remember when verifying your identity (KYC) meant standing in line at a store? Well, not anymore! Launched in 2018, GCash’s eKYC feature made getting verified quick, safe, and fully digital. What once required a face-to-face meeting with your ID is now as easy as opening the GCash app, scanning your ID, snapping a selfie, and hitting submit. GCash handles the rest, and boom! You’re verified in no time!
6. GCredit By 2018, GCash wasn’t just about sending money anymore, it was about borrowing it, too! With GCredit, in partnership with CIMB, you could get instant cash when you needed it, with no bank hoops to jump through. Whether it was for an emergency or to pay bills, GCredit had your back!
7. GScore Also, in 2018, GCash launched GScore, and suddenly, your financial world was all about leveling up! The higher your GScore, the more perks you could unlock in your GCash app, like access to more lending products. It’s like your personal power up in the GCash universe, opening doors for more financial freedom! Today, there are 5.4 million unique borrowers, with 1 in 3 borrowers being small business owners and 2 in 3 borrowers being women.
8. GSave In 2018, GSave made saving money a breeze. No paperwork, no bank lines, and with just a few taps, you were saving like a pro. Finally, everyday Filipinos had easy access to banking and financial security at their fingertips. Today, GSave has evolved into a savings marketplace where you can open accounts with BPI, Unobank, CIMB, and Maybank, all within the app. Oh, and did we mention? There are now 10.9 million registered GSave users earning up to 15% interest on savings!
9. GForest What if you could help save the planet while using GCash? In 2019, GForest made that possible! Every transaction earned you points to plant virtual trees that were later turned into real ones. So far, GCash, through its credible local and international partners, has planted 2.8 million trees! With 17 million Green Heroes and 138,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide reduced, GCash is helping the planet while helping you manage your money.
10. GInsure When the world turned upside down in 2020, GInsure was born to give users access to affordable health and life insurance. With just a few taps, getting insured wasn’t intimidating anymore. It was quick, easy, and right in your pocket. Today, GInsure is your one-stop shop for all insurance needs. From life and health to cars, travel, accidents, and even pets—yes, really, among others! And with premiums starting at just PHP 10 a month, it’s one of the most affordable options out there. With over 28.3 million GInsure policies sold and 7.8 million registered users, GCash is making protection accessible for all.
11. GLife Since its launch in 2020, GLife has grown into more than a lifestyle mini-program, it is now a full-blown super app within GCash! What started with shopping and food delivery has expanded into a one-stop shop for everything from travel bookings and entertainment to essential services like bill payment, health, and even insurance. With GLife, you can access a world of services without leaving the GCash app. It’s bigger, better, and more convenient than ever!
12. GGives & GLoan In 2021, GCash took borrowing to the next level with GGives and GLoan. Need that new gadget but don’t want to pay for it all at once? GGives lets you split your payments into easy installments, with select merchants even offering 0% interest! And if you need quick cash, GLoan has you covered with loans up to PHP 125,000. Just a few taps, and boom! Borrowing made simple, straight to your GCash ewallet!
13. GInvest Funds Ever wanted to invest in the world’s biggest companies but thought it was out of your reach? Not with GInvest! Launched in 2021, GInvest, now called GFunds, allows you to participate in the growth of both local and global companies for as low as PHP 50. Whether you’re eyeing top local corporations or global giants, GInvest makes it easy to start investing with just a few taps. Now anyone can build their investment portfolio without leaving the GCash app!
14. GJobs What started as a simple job search feature in 2021 has evolved into a comprehensive platform connecting users with employment opportunities. Now, GJobs, powered by PasaJob, helps job seekers by searching for jobs within the GCash app, offering tailored job listings and resources that streamline the hiring process. Now you can even refer friends and family to jobs and earn a referral fee once successfully placed. This feature facilitates employment and supports the growing gig economy, helping Filipinos find work that fits their skills and lifestyle.
15. Global Pay GCash did not stop at local payments. In 2022, Global Pay took things international! With GCash and Alipay+, cross-border payments became a breeze. Whether you’re shopping online or traveling abroad, GCash turned your phone into a global wallet, accepted worldwide! Keeping things easy no matter where you are.
16. Send Money Protect (Scam Insurance) With digital threats on the rise, GCash teamed up with Chubb to launch Send Money Protect in 2023. This cyber insurance adds an extra layer of security to every GCash Express Send transfer of up to PHP 15,000 for 30 days, shielding you from scams like social engineering, account takeovers, or online shopping fraud. Now, you can send money with total peace of mind!
17. GStocks PH Ever thought investing was too complicated? Not with GStocks PH, it isn’t! Launched in 2023 in partnership with AB Capital, GCash brought the stock market to your smartphone. Now, anyone can invest in Philippine stocks straight from the app, no brokers required.. With 692,000 users and a minimum investment as low as PHP 1,000, it’s investing, simplified, and accessible to all.
18. GCrypto Also, in 2023, GCash dove into the world of cryptocurrency. Buying, selling, and trading crypto became as easy as managing your e-wallet with GCrypto, in partnership with PDAX (Philippine Digital Asset Exchange). The world of digital currencies was now open to everyone, and GCash made it happen, all from your phone.
19. GCash Visa Card GCash didn’t just stop at e-wallets. In 2023, the GCash Visa Card bridged the gap between digital payments and the real world. Whether shopping online or in physical stores, you can tap into your GCash balance wherever Visa is accepted. No hidden charges, the best forex rates, and accepted in over 200 countries and territories, this card has you covered wherever you go!
20. GCash Overseas For Filipinos abroad, GCash Overseas was a total game-changer in 2023. Now, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and migrants can use GCash even with a non-Philippine SIM. From sending money to paying bills in real-time, GCash keeps you connected to your financial responsibilities back home. Want more control over your money? You can send funds to your family instantly, without service fees, or pay for bills in the Philippines, all from wherever you are in the world.
For 20 years, GCash has been pushing boundaries, but one thing has stayed the same: its mission is to make financial services accessible to every Filipino. From a humble SMS transfer service? to a super app that revolutionized money management, GCash has transformed the way we handle finances—and it’s only the beginning.
These 20 features are just the tip of the iceberg. GCash has even more to offer, with tons of tools and services making life easier every day. As we celebrate two decades with GCash, we can’t wait to see how it will continue shaping the future of finance for the next 20 years and beyond!
Writer, director, and producer Parker Finn is back with a vengeance in Smile 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the psychological horror hit Smile. This time around, he’s pulling out all the stops to deliver a chilling experience that is, in his own words, “way more off the rails.” Bigger, nastier, and bloodier than its predecessor, Smile 2 promises to shock audiences with its relentless tension, terrifying visuals, and intense storyline.
“The sequel goes bigger, it goes bolder,” Finn teases. “Everything you loved about the first film, we do that ten times bigger.”
Go Behind the Scenes of Smile 2
For a sneak peek into the making of the film, join Parker Finn and lead star Naomi Scott in a behind-the-scenes featurette.
In the Smile universe, the terror stems from a deadly curse that transfers from one victim to the next, each forced to end their life in front of a witness with a bone-chilling smile. The curse then takes hold of the witness, playing sinister tricks on their mind and slowly distorting their reality. It’s a concept that captured the imagination—and fears—of audiences worldwide.
“We watched that happen in the first film, and I wanted to find new ways to trick both Skye and the audience,” says Finn.
A Dark Tale of Fame and Fear
This time, Smile 2 centers on Skye Riley, a global pop superstar poised to kick off her world tour. But as she prepares for life in the spotlight, her world begins to unravel. Haunted by strange and inexplicable occurrences, Skye must navigate the pressure of fame while battling her growing fear. The tension builds as the stakes skyrocket, leaving Skye – and the audience – teetering on the edge of sanity.
To play the multifaceted role of Skye, Finn and his team needed someone with a broad range of talents. Enter Naomi Scott, best known for her standout roles in Aladdin and Charlie’s Angels. Finn shares that Scott was the perfect choice for the role:
“She can do everything,” he says, describing Scott as the embodiment of Skye’s public and private personas.
Scott herself praised Finn’s confident direction: “What I love about Parker was how confident the filmmaking was,” says Scott. “It really does run the gamut of a more internal movie to just being completely unhinged.”
Pushing Horror Boundaries
Smile 2 producer Wyck Godfrey assures that the sequel stays true to the terrifying narrative of the original film while significantly raising the bar. “Parker designed Smile to be experienced entirely through Rose’s (main character in the first film, played by Sosie Bacon) point of view. As a result, every element of the look and feel of the film stemmed directly from that character,” shares Godfrey. “Smile 2 takes a similar approach but with a troubled, world-famous pop star in Skye at the center, it’s all turned up to 11.”
With a storyline that balances psychological horror and visceral scares, Smile 2 is set to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience. The film dives deeper into the curse’s powers and the ways it manipulates reality, keeping both Skye and the audience questioning what’s real.
Smile 2 is rated R-18 and will be released in Philippine cinemas – completely uncut – on October 16. Are you ready to face the terror? Don’t miss out on the most chilling horror event of the year.
Follow the buzz online with hashtags #Smile2 and #SmileMovie, and tag @paramountpicsph to join the conversation!
Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
In celebration of Global Cat Day on October 16, 2024, Hard Rock Cafe Manila at S Maison, Conrad Hotel, is hosting a fun and informative Cat Awareness, Behavior, Adoption, and Welfare Seminar from 1 PM to 4 PM. Whether you’re a seasoned cat parent or thinking of adopting a furry friend, this free event is the perfect opportunity to learn from experts and connect with fellow cat enthusiasts or get involved in helping stray cats.
A Purrfect Event for Cat Enthusiasts
The event will run from 1 PM to 4 PM, featuring talks by respected veterinarians on various topics essential for every cat owner. From diet and nutrition to deworming and general health, you’ll walk away with valuable knowledge about caring for your feline friends. There will also be discussions on spaying, neutering, and the importance of vaccinations, including rabies prevention. Expect discussions on:
Stray Cat Welfare: Hear how you can help stray cats in your community and the initiatives that support their adoption and rescue.
Health and Nutrition: Get expert tips on maintaining your cat’s well-being, including the best diet and nutrition practices.
Deworming and Vaccinations: Learn about the importance of deworming, spaying, and neutering, along with the critical role vaccinations, play in protecting cats.
But it’s not all serious! Expect a fun-filled afternoon with prizes, raffles, and giveaways for attendees. And yes, participants are encouraged to bring their pet cats to the event. Imagine an afternoon surrounded by fellow cat lovers, with a chance to win exciting prizes while learning how to better care for your pets!
Whether you’re a seasoned cat owner or thinking of adopting a kitten, this event is a wonderful opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and learn from experts in feline care. The seminar will highlight important aspects of cat behavior and welfare, equipping you with the knowledge to provide the best care for your furry companions. You’ll also learn about the benefits of spaying and neutering, vital steps in ensuring a healthy and happy cat community.
Limited Seats, So Register Early!
This event is open to everyone, but with limited seats, make sure to register early to secure your spot. For inquiries, you can reach Hard Rock Café Manila at +63 917 144 9400 or (02) 8909 9809. For more information and updates, follow Hard Rock Café Manila on their official social media pages: Facebook and Instagram.
Don’t miss out on this pawsitively exciting event! It’s a great chance to learn more about your furry companions, meet fellow cat lovers, and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon—all while promoting cat welfare and adoption.
