Prepare for the roar of the crowd. Gladiator II, directed by Ridley Scott, and starring Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Lior Raz, Derek Jacobi, with Connie Nielsen and Denzel Washington, opens only in cinemas December 4.
Gladiator II isthe epic sequel to 2000’s Gladiator, which won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Russell Crowe.
Official Synopsis:
Directed by Ridley Scott, with screenplay by David Scarpa, based on characters by David Franzoni
From legendary director Ridley Scott, Gladiator II continues the epic saga of power, intrigue, and vengeance set in Ancient Rome. Years after witnessing the death of the revered hero Maximus at the hands of his uncle, Lucius (Paul Mescal) is forced to enter the Colosseum after his home is conquered by the tyrannical Emperors who now lead Rome with an iron fist. With rage in his heart and the future of the Empire at stake, Lucius must look to his past to find strength and honor to return the glory of Rome to its people.
The acclaimed Filipino-Chinese film “Her Locket” is all set to make its grand entrance into the US film scene with its premiere at the San Diego Filipino Film Festival this October 3rd. After a stunning victory at the 2024 Sinag Maynila Independent Film Festival, where it won eight major awards, this cinematic masterpiece is ready to dazzle international audiences.
Elora Españo with Rebecca Chuaunsu
A Tale of Memory and Empowerment
Her Locket centers around Jewel Ouyang, a Chinese woman battling dementia, portrayed masterfully by Rebecca Chuaunsu. As Jewel’s mind begins to fade, a treasured locket helps unlock long-buried memories of her family, revealing a deeply emotional journey of love, loss, and self-discovery. Alongside Jewel is her son Kyle Nicolas (played by Boo Gabunada), a lawyer who hires a caregiver named Teresa Firmante (Elora Españo), who has her own dreams of breaking free from the chains of her past.
“Two women want to do something about their memories. One wants to get it back. The other one wants to forget. Both came from experiences of pain and loss. Both a victim of patriarchy under two familial cultures of Chinese and Filipino. However, this is also a restorative story of women who choose not to be silenced, who choose to hold the line. My intention is to portray an empowering tale of feminism in front of a backdrop of conservative milieu,” Tiglao shared.
“Her Locket” Director J.E. Tiglao
A Celebration of Filipino-Chinese Cinema
Directed by J.E. Tiglao, who won Best Director at the Sinag Maynila festival, Her Locket also secured awards for Best Film, Best Actress (Rebecca Chuaunsu), Best Supporting Actress (Elora Españo), Best Screenplay (Tiglao & Maze Miranda), Best Cinematography (Jag Concepcion), Best Production Design (James Arvin Rosendal), and Best Acting Ensemble. This marks Tiglao’s second feature film, following his previous award-winning project “Metamorphosis.”
An Outstanding Ensemble Cast
The film boasts a stellar cast that breathes life into this poignant narrative, including: Sophie Ng as the young Jewel, Benedict Cua as the young Magnus, Francis Mata as the older Magnus and Tommy Alejandrino as Jewel’s youthful love interest.
They are joined by a talented lineup of supporting actors, including Rolando Inocencio, Jian Myco Repolles, Zoey Villamangca, and Angela Kate Villarin.
Elora Españo with Boo Gabunada
The Power Behind the Production
Her Locket is a collaborative effort between Rebecca Chuaunsu Film Production and Rebelde Films, with the unwavering support of key producers Sarah Pagcaliwagan Brakensiek and Ferdinand Lapuz. The creative team also includes line producer Jane Danting, production manager Gel Gadon, and editor Renard Torres, among many other talented professionals.
An Emotional Journey to Remember
At its core, Her Locket is more than just a film about memory and identity. It’s a powerful story that shines a light on the strength and resilience of women against the backdrop of patriarchal pressures in both Filipino and Chinese cultures. As Jewel delves into her memories, she uncovers long-buried truths about herself, her family, and the societal norms that shaped her life.
Catch Her Locket as it premieres on October 3 at AMC Plaza Bonita, Westfield, San Diego, California. The San Diego Filipino Film Festival is helmed by Benito Salvador Bautista and Emma Francisco Bautista, who are dedicated to bringing Filipino talent to the forefront of international cinema.
While ‘I, the Executioner’ is the sequel to the 2015 film ‘Veteran,’ you don’t need to have seen the first movie to still find a lot to enjoy in ‘I, the Executioner,’ though the main characters’ personal story arcs are not in focus in this installment, and instead, it seems more focused on the suspense and social commentary that is proposed by its choice of plot.
In this film, the Violent Crimes Investigation Unit must solve a possible serial killer, whom online tabloid journalists have called “Haechi,” after a symbol of justice. Haechi’s victims are all murderers in their own right but have managed to avoid any harsh sentencing of the law through loop holes or, what is seen as, a weak justice system. Haechi murders them in the exact place and manner that they committed their own murders. While the Violent Crimes Unit, led by Detective Seo Do-cheol (Hwang Jung-min) must find the killer, they also face backlash from a public who sees Haechi’s brand of justice as righteous.
To my surprise, very early on, director Ryeo Sung-hwan, who co-wrote the screenplay with Lee Won-jae, reveals the identity of Haechi very early, and he is part of the team. Working alongside with the police, Haechi is always one step ahead of them and thus the film takes a more suspenseful route because you are just wondering how Seo Do-cheol and his team will outsmart someone who knows their every step and move.
Interestingly enough, Ryeo Sung-hwan adds another layer to the mix by giving a voice to some of the police who are actually thinking that Haechi is doing them a favour. The film manages to explore this discourse and express its disappointment in the South Korean justice system in-between all the suspense and the high-octane action that makes up for the movie. It’s this layer of political discourse that just lingers in the periphery that makes ‘I, the Executioner’ more than just a straight-up action/suspense commercial film.
Because it’s very enjoyable when taken for all its commercial elements. The opening sequence is surprisingly goofy and funny. It has hilarious timed-slapstick and other forms of physical comedy that brings in its mainstream appeal. But the moment Haechi strikes, the film gets really serious. The cinematography is dark and gritty, creating an atmosphere of dread and danger. And there are three major action sequences with great fight choreography (quite unrealistic, but very hard-hitting and enjoyable to see on the big screen) and tense moments when the cat-and-mouse moments are at play.
Hwang Jung-min makes for a fascinating lead. He’s not a nice guy but despite his brusque and rough manner, he does mean well, and you can still root for him, even when he chooses his work over his son (Byung Hong-jun) and his problems in school, which finds its way into the mess with Haechi later on. Joining the cast as a rookie cop is Jung Hae In, who once again proves that his acting range is unlimited by playing an eager young cop who is quick on his feet and smarter than he looks. A welcome surprise is a guest appearance by Ahn Bo Hyun, who makes full use of his physicality and his vulnerability for a character with an interesting connection to the crime.
‘I, the Executioner’ is a fast-paced, hard-hitting, and is clever in the way that it reveals what it needs to so that the film is just bubbling with tension all-throughout. Hwang Jung-min’s character feels like his growth from the last film is being tested in this one, so there’s not much character development for us to track here. Instead, we are presented with a moral dilemma that the film doesn’t really give an answer for. While it does paint Haechi as a criminal, the film makes no real stand on whether what he does is truly bad, which makes the film a little dangerous and a whole lot more interesting than it appears.
“We love our Filipino fans, as the Philippines is one of our most supportive countries in the world,” said Dallas Jenkins, creator, writer, and director of the hit series The Chosen, in August 2020. Now in its fourth season, the Philippines ranks third globally in viewership outside the U.S., following Brazil and Mexico. The show’s success in the Philippines makes sense, since Filipinos are not only devout Christians traditionally, celebrating the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ year after year, but are also incurable teleserye watchers.
Jesus and his disciples
And The Chosen is an extraordinary teleserye. It has captured the hearts of millions around the globe, not just for its compelling storytelling, but also for its innovative, crowd-funded production model.
From its inception, The Chosen has defied expectations, offering a fresh and humanizing portrayal of the life of Jesus Christ (played by Jonathan Roumie). “It has not only made the Bible come alive in new and powerful ways but has also changed the way faith-based media is funded and produced,” enthuses Teresa Tunay, CBCP/CINEMA.
What sets The Chosen apart from other biblical adaptations is its deeply human approach to the characters in the Gospels. Rather than portraying Jesus and His disciples as distant or larger-than-life figures, The Chosen focuses on their humanity, their struggles, and their relationships with one another. Creator Dallas Jenkins sought to depict these biblical figures as relatable, flawed people whose encounters with Jesus transformed their lives in profound and personal ways.
For example, Simon Peter (Shahar Isaac) isn’t just a faithful follower from the start, he is a struggling fisherman grappling with personal and financial hardships. Mary Magdalene’s (Elizabeth Tabish) journey from darkness to redemption is portrayed with nuance and sensitivity, helping viewers connect with her on a deeply emotional level. Even Jesus is portrayed in a way that emphasizes His relatability as a person who laughs, weeps, and shares meals with His friends.
Mary Magdalene, Ramah (Fil-AM actress Yasmine Al-Bustami), Tamar, Mother Mary, and Jesus
This unique storytelling approach has resonated with viewers, many of whom have found themselves deeply moved by the series’ ability to make the ancient stories of the Bible feel relevant and real. It presents the Gospels not just as sacred texts but as living stories about real people, each with their own challenges and triumphs.
The crowd-funding success of The Chosen highlights the deep hunger people have for authentic, faith-based content that resonates with their beliefs and experiences. It’s a powerful example of how film-making can thrive outside the traditional system—and succeed when people rally behind a shared vision.
Simon and Andrew
Additionally, the funding model has given the creators the freedom to stay true to their vision without compromising their values or message to suit studio demands. Fans not only helped fund the project but became its champions, spreading the word to their communities and encouraging others to support the show.
Since its launch, The Chosen has been translated into over 75 different languages that are available for certain seasons. For viewers looking to watch Seasons 1, 2, and 3 in one particular language, there are currently 26 dubbed and 36 subtitled languages available. Seasons 1-4 are available as a whole in 16 different subtitled languages.
Nicodemus and Mary
The Chosen app, which allows anyone to watch the series for free, has made it accessible to audiences far beyond traditional Christian circles. This global reach speaks to the universal appeal of the show’s themes of hope, redemption, and the power of faith.
Viewers have reported that the show has reignited their passion for Scripture, helped them connect with God on a deeper level, and fostered greater understanding and empathy for the people in the Gospels. Churches and small groups have used the series as a tool for Bible studies and discussions, helping people explore their faith in new ways.
Matthew
More than just a successful TV series, The Chosen is a cultural phenomenon that has redefined the way biblical stories can be told. Its innovative crowd-funded model and humanizing portrayal of Jesus and His followers have struck a chord with over 250 million viewers, making the Bible come alive for a new generation. Through its relatable characters and powerful storytelling, The Chosen has brought fresh energy to faith-based entertainment and has left an indelible mark on its audience.
In the new featurette “Joaquin’s Joker,” Joaquin Phoenix, who won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Joker in the first film, talks about the direction the sequel took. “Midway through the shoot of the first one, Todd [Phillips director] and I both thought what it would be like if we did another film,” shares Phoenix. “Music was a huge part of the first film and really did development of certain parts of the character. We’re always trying to find ways in which the character expresses himself in this film.”
In another featurette, director Todd Phillips looks back on his discussions with Phoenix about the sequel. “We went back to the things we liked [about the first film], and one of those things is a romance to Arthur,” says Phillips. “‘Folie à deux’ is an actual term, it’s this idea of a shared madness.”
Adds Lady Gaga, who plays Harley Quinn / Lee, “Some people refer to it as double insanity, a shared delusion. Just an expression of love. When we are in love, sometimes we will do insane things.”
And here’s something else to smile about – Joker is not just taking over cinemas but also the streets of the Philippines. In anticipation of the opening of “Joker: Folie à Deux” in theaters, this week until October 6, Joker is taking over Grab Car. When you book a Grab car, Joker will show up on the map, ready to take you where you want to go.
“Joker: Folie à Deux,” distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, opens only in cinemas October 2. Tickets are now available. Click here#JokerMovie
This October, twelve Filipino contemporary artists are set to shine in Japan through an art exhibition titled BIJUTSU, which means “fine art” in Japanese. Running from October 11 to 20, 2024, at the prestigious Toyono Gallery Vitokuras in Osaka, the exhibit will bring the rich and diverse world of Philippine art to the Land of the Rising Sun.
A Diverse Collection of Filipino Art
Led by Mylene Quito, a renowned artist and exhibition organizer, this group of talented artists is ready to display their finest works. The exhibit promises to captivate art enthusiasts with a wide array of styles, ranging from traditional pottery to contemporary masterpieces. Ms. Quito, who has long been a respected figure in the Philippine art scene, has carefully curated pieces that highlight each artist’s individuality and creativity.
The lineup of participating artists includes Allen V. Sanchez, Angelie Banaag, Ann Theresa E. Bolos, Art Lozano, Arturo Arsega Jr., Bing Famoso, Daniel Dumaguit, Franklin Cana, Isah Rodillo, TatEs Cannon, Valerie Teng, and Mylene Quito herself. Their unique techniques and perspectives will come together to celebrate Filipino artistry in an international setting.
Mylene Quito “Radiant” | Acrylic on canvas
An Artistic Cultural Exchange
Beyond the stunning artworks, BIJUTSU represents an important cultural exchange between the Philippines and Japan. As Ms. Quito shared, “We invite our friends, collectors, and art enthusiasts to join us in celebrating this cultural exchange as we collaborate with Toyono Gallery Vitokuras in Osaka, Japan.” She hopes that the exhibit will not only showcase the beauty of Filipino art but also resonate deeply with the Japanese audience, who are known for their love of art and aesthetics.
For Filipino artists, this exhibit marks a significant opportunity to gain international recognition and foster connections with fellow artists and art lovers from across the globe. The exposure to Japan’s art scene could potentially open doors to future collaborations and exhibits, creating a bridge between the two countries’ creative communities.
Valerie Teng “Reawakening” | Acrylic on canvas
What to Expect from BIJUTSU
Visitors to BIJUTSU can expect a wide range of artistic styles, with each piece reflecting the Philippines’ vibrant culture and heritage. From Allen V. Sanchez’s intricate depictions of local life to Valerie Teng’s contemporary interpretations, the exhibition promises to be a visual feast. The artists’ works explore different mediums, subjects, and emotions, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for attendees.
Osaka’s Toyono Gallery Vitokuras is the perfect venue for such an exhibit, as it has long been recognized for showcasing innovative and high-quality art. Hosting the works of these Filipino artists is a testament to the gallery’s commitment to fostering international artistic exchanges.
Whether you’re an art collector, a fan of Filipino culture, or simply curious about contemporary art, BIJUTSU is an event you shouldn’t miss. The exhibit provides a rare chance to witness the convergence of Filipino creativity in a global context. By attending, you’ll be supporting not just the artists themselves but also the growing presence of Philippine art on the international stage.
Additionally, this exhibition strengthens the bond between the Philippines and Japan, emphasizing the role of art in bridging cultures and fostering mutual appreciation.
With its showcase of diverse and powerful artworks, BIJUTSU is set to leave a lasting impression on all who attend. For the Filipino artists involved, it’s an opportunity to showcase the depth and range of their talent to a new audience. And for the Japanese art community, it’s a chance to explore the vibrant and evolving world of contemporary Filipino art.
So, mark your calendars for October 11 to 20, 2024, and immerse yourself in the beauty and creativity of BIJUTSU at Toyono Gallery Vitokuras in Osaka. This cultural and artistic exchange is sure to be a milestone for Filipino artists and a celebration of fine art that transcends borders.
For 13 years, Access Travel has been more than just a boutique travel company. What started as a personal dream has evolved into a movement that embraces community impact, redefining the very essence of luxury travel. Under the leadership of Angely Dub, Access Travel now blends life-changing experiences with social responsibility, creating a ripple effect that stretches far beyond the world of high-end vacations.
Angely Dub with the Access Travel team
From Personal Goals to Collective Impact
When Access Travel was first founded, Angely’s vision was rooted in personal aspirations. “When I started as a traveler, it was all about me, my goals, my dreams,” she reflects. Like many passionate travelers, Angely sought to explore the world and discover its wonders. But as her business grew, so did her understanding of what travel could truly mean for others. “Access is not just about me anymore,” Angely shares. “Now, it’s about giving back and changing lives in the smallest way possible.”
This realization shifted the company’s core mission, guiding it toward initiatives that focus not just on offering luxurious travel experiences but also on making a meaningful difference in the lives of employees, clients, and underserved communities.
Redefining Luxury in the Travel Industry
Traditionally, luxury travel has been defined by extravagant getaways, five-star accommodations, and exclusive experiences. However, Access Travel is challenging this definition. Angely believes that luxury extends far beyond these material concepts. “Luxury is not just about associating with famous people or having lavish vacations. It’s about the unseen efforts of our employees and the impact we make on the community,” she explains.
Angely at Easter Island in Chile. She usually covers places that are not too popular travel destinations
At Access Travel, the focus is on providing thoughtful, meaningful experiences—ones that inspire personal growth, foster connections, and, most importantly, create lasting positive change. This broader definition of luxury now incorporates a sense of purpose that transcends just one individual.
Empowering Through Education: The ChildHope Philippines Partnership
One of Access Travel’s standout initiatives is its collaboration with ChildHope Philippines Foundation, an organization that offers educational opportunities for underprivileged children. By sponsoring educational programs, Access Travel is helping these children broaden their horizons and explore a world they never thought possible.
Angely Dub chats with ChildHope Foundation beneficiary Rosario Reyes Rosario Reyes (left), 21, is among the scholars from ChildHope Foundation. Her perseverance and support from Access Travel has made it possible to finish an HR Management course from the National Teachers College as a scholar. She is with Access Travel owner Angely Dub.
Mylene Lagman, a representative from ChildHope, notes the profound impact this partnership has had: “Access Travel helped kids understand that there’s a bigger world out there. For many of them, traveling was just an illusion, but through this program, they see the endless possibilities life has to offer.”
Giving back and making a difference is part of Access Travel’s evolution. Access Travel partnered with Photo shows Angely Dub with Mylene Lagman of ChildHope Philippines Foundation
Inspiring the Next Generation
Angely Dub’s influence reaches beyond her role as a business owner. Through her “Meet the World” book and a vibrant social media presence, Angely has become a role model for young women in the Philippines. By showcasing her personal journey and the success of Access Travel, she has encouraged many girls to reimagine their future.
“Many young girls started following me on Instagram and Facebook,” Angely shares. “They saw that the role of women can be different. It’s not just having a husband and giving birth, like how they saw their moms.”
By opening new doors for women, Angely is actively changing the narrative around female empowerment and the role of women in society. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that women can lead, innovate, and make a difference.
A Culture of Continuous Growth
What has kept Access Travel at the forefront of the travel industry is its commitment to adaptability. Angely recognizes that to stay relevant, she—and her company—must continuously evolve. “Business is always changing, and I am always changing,” she says. “It’s important for me to keep learning—not just from clients but also from my employees and the business itself.”
This philosophy of continuous learning is embedded in the company culture, encouraging employees to seek out new opportunities for growth and innovation. Whether it’s exploring new social media platforms like TikTok or experimenting with fresh marketing strategies, Access Travel thrives on its willingness to embrace change.
In one of Angely’s trips, features interacting with alpacas in Rainbow Mountain in Peru
Looking to the Future
As Access Travel celebrates 13 years in the industry, its mission remains clear: to make travel not just a luxury, but a transformative experience that touches lives. “I want my employees to look forward to working, to meeting clients, and to changing people’s perspectives on travel,” says Angely.
Looking ahead, the company plans to continue expanding its efforts to empower communities and enrich lives through travel. “The luxury of providing my people, my clients, and these kids with happiness, joy, inspiration, and motivation—it’s beyond anything we can give to anybody,” Angely concludes.
Access Travel’s 13th anniversary marks more than just a milestone for a boutique travel company. It symbolizes a shift in the way we define luxury—moving from personal indulgence to a broader sense of community and purpose. By offering opportunities for underprivileged children, supporting employee growth, and redefining travel for its clients, Access Travel proves that luxury can indeed be about making a difference in the world.
As the company embarks on its next chapter, it is evident that Access Travel will continue to inspire and uplift, making travel not just a journey of discovery, but a journey of giving back. For more information about Access Travel and its initiatives, visit travelwithaccess.com.
The wait is finally over for fans of the DC Universe as “Joker: Folie à Deux“ gets ready to hit the big screen! Lady Gaga steps into the iconic shoes of Harley Quinn, delivering a mesmerizing performance alongside Joaquin Phoenix, who reprises his role as Arthur Fleck, aka Joker, in this sequel to the Academy Award-winning “Joker.”
In a recently released featurette titled “My Name Is Lee,” the spotlight shines on Lady Gaga’s transformative journey as Harley Quinn. “I got to see the original ‘Joker’ before it ever came out,” Gaga reminisces in the clip. “It was a very special experience. I had never seen a world created like that before.”
Lady Gaga: The Perfect Harley Quinn
Director Todd Phillips, who helms “Joker: Folie à Deux” after his incredible work on the first film, knew exactly who he wanted to bring Harley Quinn to life. At CinemaCon in April, Phillips revealed, “We cast Gaga because she’s magic. I was a producer on ‘A Star Is Born’… That was the first time I really met her and got to watch her work.” And in the featurette, Phillips talks more about working with the music icon. “She easily slipped into that role,” says Phillips, who also directed the first film. “It’s not like she’s trying to be Harley Quinn from the comic books. She’s Lee in this world.”
Lady Gaga isn’t merely portraying Harley Quinn; she’s becoming her. Phillips adds, “She easily slipped into that role. It’s not like she’s trying to be Harley Quinn from the comic books. She’s Lee in this world.”
Joaquin Phoenix, no stranger to complex characters himself, speaks highly of his co-star, saying, “I found her to be without ego and had such fierce determination to get right in with us. She understood that there had to be a rawness to the character.” And that rawness is something Gaga brings in spades, delivering an unapologetically passionate and unfiltered portrayal of Harley Quinn.
Harley Quinn’s Heart and Soul – Lady Gaga’s Perspective
For Lady Gaga, this role was more than just another performance—it was a chance to dive deep into a character filled with chaotic energy and profound emotion. “It brought all of that rough and tough energy and how big these dreams were and how far they would fall,” Gaga explains. Her dedication to capturing Harley Quinn’s essence shines through, creating a portrayal that’s both vulnerable and fiercely powerful.
The Music Behind the Madness: Lady Gaga’s “Harlequin” Album
As if taking on the role of Harley Quinn wasn’t enough, Lady Gaga has gifted fans with an entire album inspired by the film. Titled “Harlequin,” this companion album to “Joker: Folie à Deux” features 13 tracks that perfectly capture the chaos, romance, and intensity of Harley Quinn’s world. The Grammy-winning artist pours her heart and soul into every track, providing fans with an unforgettable musical experience that mirrors the film’s raw, unrestrained energy.
Prepare for Mayhem: “Joker: Folie à Deux” in Cinemas Soon!
Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures in the Philippines, “Joker: Folie à Deux” promises to be one of the most thrilling cinematic experiences of the year. Opening exclusively in cinemas on October 2, this psychological journey will undoubtedly leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Tickets are now available, so make sure to secure yours!
Don’t Miss Out! Join the Madness Today!
Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix’s electric chemistry will ignite the screen, bringing one of the most iconic relationships in comic book history to life. This is a cinematic experience you won’t want to miss!
There’s a grandness to Francis Ford Coppola’s 138-minute sci-fi epic ‘Megalopolis.’ It’s got big stars, big set pieces, big themes, and a self-importance that asks you to take it seriously while being tonally all over the place; probably a product of Coppola’s decision to rewrite the script with the actors’ doing improvisations during a workshop before production and improvising new changes while in the midst of shooting. This makes ‘Megalopolis’ quite incoherent and an assault to the senses. It’s loud, it’s bombastic, and for the better part of the movie, it doesn’t really say anything truly compelling.
‘Megalopolis’ is about a scientist, Cesar Catalina (Adam Driver), who has discovered a new element called Megalon that is versatile and powerful. It has given him the power to control time. He wants to build a utopia with it, but he finds himself the rival of the mayor of the metropolis called New Rome, Frankly Cicero (Giancarlo Esposito). There’s an ideological battle between the two and in the process, Cicero’s socialite daughter, Julia (Nathalie Emmanuel) falls for Cesar and joins his cause. Adding an extra layer of trouble are Aubrey Plaza and Shia LeBeouf as Wow Platinum and Clodio Pulcher, respectively. Plaza’s Wow Platinum is a journalist and girlfriend of Cesar while LeBeouf’s Clodio is Cesar’s cousin and a general troublemaker.
In truth, the film really plays out as Coppola’s manifesto as he tries to establish the ideals of the artist as civilization collapses while also detailing all of the obstacles in the way towards utopia. What makes all of this feel so unreal is that there’s a heightened theatricality to the proceeding, the unnecessarily verbose dialogue that attempts at some form of weighted lyricism to try and sound lofty and profound. Surprisingly, it fits well with Driver’s and Esposito’s performance, they seem to understand the craziness around them, while Plaza and LeBeouf go to town with it and play it to its full campy potential. It’s Emmanuel, who seems to be lost in all of this, that she feels like she’s in a completely different movie from Driver and Esposito or Plaza and LeBeouf. Considering she’s a ‘Game of Thrones’ alumnus, or maybe because of it, she tried to match the film’s writing’s ambitions and, much like the film, fails to capture any sense of profundity.
Adam Driver as Cesar Catilina and James Remar as Charles Cothope in Megalopolis. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate
The reason why is that the film tries to give importance to Cesar’s plan to build a utopia but the film never takes the time to really show us what is it in the film’s reality that needs saving. The camera is so enamored by the images to excess and greed and indulgences, always pointed towards the rich and the corrupt; or when it’s on Driver, the capable and the visionary. Coppola never takes time to really sit down and show us what the fall of civilization, as he tries to insinuate, means to the common man.
The only time he really shows us the common man is when they easily fall for Clodio’s manipulations as he turns the people against Cesar and his promise of a utopia.
Kathryn Hunter as Teresa Cicero and Giancarlo Esposito as Mayor Cicero in Megalopolis. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate
The film is huge but Coppola insists on a lot of practical effects and camera effects, which lends off an old-school vibe to the film. While supposedly set in “the third millennium” and at the tail-end of the 21st Century, the production design and sensitivities are all very retro, with several characters carrying capes and cloaks; while Clodio and his sisters are always in costume. For a film that is constantly talking about the future, it seems so stuck in the past without really making any serious criticism against it.
Writer/Director Francis Ford Coppola and Adam Driver as Cesar Catilina in Megalopolis. Photo Credit: Phil Laruso
It’s a bewildering piece. It’s long and indulgent, a whole sequence of Cesar getting high during a party that is both a chariot race and a circus performance while Clodio makes an attack at his reputation seems to go on forever and doesn’t really push the story forward. There are a lot of scenes like this that when I looked at my watch after feeling like three hours had already passed, was shocked to discover that we were just reaching the end of the first hour.
Adam Driver as Cesar Catilina in Megalopolis. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate
For all the fine actors and the budget and the set pieces that they put together, it feels like such a shame because I felt no emotional attachment to any character or any action that happened within the film and the film’s whole message can be picked up from two monologues that happen near the end of the movie. I’m a fan of Coppola’s older works: the first two films in the ‘The Godfather’ series and ‘Bram Stoker’s Dracula’ and ‘Apocalypse Now.’ But ‘Megalopolis’ is way too indulgent. It has the bravado of Coppola’s older work but none of the temperament and restraint.
My Rating:
Megalopolis is now showing! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.
Prime Video has just revealed the official trailer and exclusive first-look images for its highly anticipated crime thriller series, “CROSS,” starring Aldis Hodge as the iconic detective Alex Cross. Mark your calendars, as all eight episodes will be available for streaming on November 14, exclusively on Prime Video in over 240 countries and territories worldwide.
This pulse-pounding series, based on the beloved characters from James Patterson’s best-selling “Alex Cross” book series, promises an intense blend of drama, suspense, and action. Ben Watkins, the brilliant mind behind the show, serves as the series’ showrunner and writer, ensuring that “CROSS” stays true to the gripping nature of Patterson’s storytelling.
Meet Alex Cross: A Detective with a Difference
Aldis Hodge brings his signature charisma and intensity to the role of Alex Cross, a detective and forensic psychologist with an uncanny ability to unravel the twisted psyches of killers and their victims. This rare talent makes him an unstoppable force in the quest to capture some of the most dangerous murderers, making “CROSS” a must-watch for fans of crime dramas with an edge.
The creation of “CROSS” is the result of the collaboration between some of the best talents in the industry. Ben Watkinsserves as the showrunner and executive producer through his Blue Monday Productions. Other executive producers include Sam Ernst, Jim Dunn, and Craig Siebels.
The legendary James Patterson himself is involved as an executive producer, alongside Bill Robinson and Patrick Santa from James Patterson Entertainment. Representing Skydance Television are David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, and Bill Bost, adding even more star power behind the scenes.
The Perfect Blend of Talent and Storytelling
“CROSS” is the result of a powerhouse collaboration between Amazon MGM Studios, Paramount Television Studios, and Skydance Television. With such a talented team behind the camera and an equally impressive cast in front, this series promises to be a gripping, edge-of-your-seat experience that fans of crime thrillers won’t want to miss.
So, prepare yourself for a journey into the mind of one of the most fascinating detectives ever written. The countdown has begun, and “CROSS” is ready to take you on a heart-pounding ride starting November 14, only on Prime Video.
