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  • SB19’s “PAGTATAG! The Documentary” Hits Philippine Cinemas Today

    SB19’s “PAGTATAG! The Documentary” Hits Philippine Cinemas Today

    SB19’s much-anticipated film, PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY, makes its grand theatrical debut across the Philippines today! Fans and music lovers alike are in for a treat as the film pulls back the curtain on the highs and lows of the group’s journey to global pop stardom.

    A Raw and Real Inside Look

    The documentary goes beyond the glitz and glamour, diving deep into SB19’s collective and individual experiences on tour. It showcases the intense pressure and anxiety the group faced while navigating their meteoric rise in the global music scene. This candid exploration of their journey highlights not just their achievements but the mental and emotional challenges they had to overcome.

    As SB19 moves forward into a new era of music, career, and personal growth, PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY captures never-before-seen moments that test their resilience and commitment. The film doesn’t shy away from the struggles, offering an honest portrayal of the group’s year-long tour and album release, filled with setbacks that added to their mental and emotional stress.

    Overcoming Adversity

    “Part of what makes the film even more special is that it doesn’t sugar-coat the learnings and experiences that we’ve endured during the entire era of the PAGTATAG! tour and album release,” SB19 shares in a press statement. “The year-long run was filled with multiple setbacks that added mental and emotional distress. But as the title explains it best, the documentary will show how we bounced back from the adversities in life and career, and how we managed to mount a series of shows despite going through a lot of internal and collective struggles. We hope that through this movie, we will be able to inspire our A’TIN to become stronger and more resilient when they face a similar ordeal in a not-so-distant future.”

    Behind the Scenes with SB19

    SB19’s PABLO, who currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of 1Z Entertainment, emphasized that they’ve always thought about producing a documentary that captures the story behind the stage and the little moments that define the human aspects of mounting a tour of this scale and ambition.

    “We’re grateful to First Light Studios and Jed Regala for helping us turn our vision into a reality,” PABLO reveals. “We’re lucky to have a team that understands the power of collaboration.”

    Exclusive Screenings Nationwide

    The film is set for exclusive screenings from August 28 to September 1 in cinemas nationwide. Don’t miss your chance to witness SB19’s incredible journey on the big screen!

    Get your PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY tickets here.

    PAGTATAG FINALE52606

    A Triumphant Year for SB19

    Just recently, SB19 added another feather to their cap by winning Billboard’s Fan Army Face-off for the second consecutive year, beating international music icons like Rihanna. The group garnered 56.3% of the votes in the final round, a testament to their ever-growing global fanbase.

    Moreover, SB19 represented the Philippines in Billboard Korea’s “Billboard K POWER 100” in Seoul, where they received the Voices of Asia Award for their groundbreaking contributions in bringing Filipino music to the global stage.

    About SB19

    SB19 is a multi-awarded, five-member boy group from the Philippines consisting of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin. They debuted in October 2018 with their single “Tilaluha” and gained widespread popularity with their second single “Go Up.” Since their debut, SB19 has amassed a global fanbase, known as A’TIN, and has been recognized as the Philippines’ Youth Ambassadors by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

    The “SB” in SB19 stands for “Sound Break,” reflecting their ambition to disrupt the music scene and showcase Filipino talent on the international stage. SB19 is the first Southeast Asian and Filipino act to be nominated for the Billboard Music Awards’ Top Social Artist in 2021 and has consistently made waves on the Billboard Social 50 and Next Big Sound Charts.

    Their latest hit, “GENTO,” debuted at #8 on the Billboard World Digital Sales Charts, further solidifying their status as global music icons.

    SB19 is self-managed by 1Z Entertainment, a company built and managed by the members of SB19.

  • Ready, Set, Go! The Trailer for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” – Coming to Cinemas 2025

    Ready, Set, Go! The Trailer for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” – Coming to Cinemas 2025

    Hold onto your seats! Sonic the Hedgehog is speeding back to the big screen in 2025 with his most electrifying adventure yet – “Sonic the Hedgehog 3.” Fans worldwide are buzzing with excitement after the release of the first trailer, giving us a glimpse of what’s in store. But trust us, it’s just the beginning.

    A New Rival Emerges

    This time, Sonic isn’t just up against any ordinary foe. Enter Shadow the Hedgehog, a mysterious and powerful adversary who challenges Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails in ways they never imagined. With Shadow’s incredible abilities pushing Team Sonic to their limits, they must form an unexpected alliance to protect the planet from an imminent threat.

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    Star-Studded Cast and Stellar Direction

    “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” sees the return of director Jeff Fowler, who has masterfully brought Sonic’s world to life once again. Our beloved all-star cast is also back, including Jim Carrey as the enigmatic Dr. Robotnik, Ben Schwartz as Sonic, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Idris Elba, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, and more. The film also introduces new faces Alyla Browne, Krysten Ritter, and the legendary Keanu Reeves as the voice of Shadow the Hedgehog.

    Distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures, “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is set to be the blockbuster movie you won’t want to miss. Prepare to be dazzled by high-speed chases, epic battles, and a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

    Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”

  • Watch the Untold Story: The Trailer of “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story”

    Watch the Untold Story: The Trailer of “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story”

    Get ready to be inspired by the untold story of an extraordinary hero. “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” is set to hit cinemas exclusively on October 16. Don’t miss the chance to witness the incredible journey of the man who embodied Superman both on and off the screen. Secure your tickets now!

    A Legacy Beyond the Cape

    Christopher Reeve was more than just an actor who defined the role of Superman for a generation—he was a symbol of courage, resilience, and unwavering hope. Following a near-fatal horse-riding accident in 1995 that left him paralyzed, Reeve became an advocate for spinal cord injury research and disability rights. His advocacy, alongside his wife Dana, lives on through the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, dedicated to improving the quality of life for those impacted by paralysis. Be a part of their mission by visiting christopherreeve.org/donate.

    A Cinematic Tribute Like No Other

    The film, directed by the team behind the acclaimed “McQueen,” delves into the profound impact Reeve had on Hollywood and beyond. Featuring interviews with A-list stars who were Reeve’s colleagues and friends, “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” is more than just a biography—it’s a vivid, heartfelt exploration of a life that inspired millions.

    This powerful documentary is produced by Passion Pictures, the creators behind “Searching For Sugar Man,” and Misfits Entertainment, known for “McQueen” and “Rising Phoenix.” It’s also backed by Words + Pictures, the studio responsible for the Emmy-winning “The Last Dance” and the Oscar-winning “O.J.: Made in America.”

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    The Official Synopsis

    The story of Christopher Reeve is an astonishing rise from unknown actor to iconic movie star, and his definitive portrayal of Clark Kent/Superman set the benchmark for the superhero cinematic universes that dominate cinema today. Reeve portrayed the Man of Steel in four “Superman” films and played dozens of other roles that displayed his talent and range as an actor, before being injured in a near-fatal horse-riding accident in 1995 that left him paralyzed from the neck down.

    After becoming a quadriplegic, he became a charismatic leader and activist in the quest to find a cure for spinal cord injuries, as well as a passionate advocate for disability rights and care – all while continuing his career in cinema in front of and behind the camera and dedicating himself to his beloved family.

    From the directors of “McQueen,” Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, this film includes never-before-seen intimate home movies and an extraordinary trove of personal archive material, as well as the first extended interviews ever filmed with Reeve’s three children about their father, and interviews with the A-list Hollywood actors who were Reeve’s colleagues and friends. The film is a moving and vivid cinematic telling of Reeve’s remarkable story.

    Don’t Miss It!

    Mark your calendars for October 16 and prepare to be moved by a story that celebrates the enduring spirit of a true hero. “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company. #ChristopherReeveStory

    Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

  • Prime Video Unveils Asia Pacific Premiere of The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2 in Singapore

    Prime Video Unveils Asia Pacific Premiere of The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2 in Singapore

    Ahead of the global premiere of the highly anticipated second season of The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power on Prime Video, the cast and creators of the series visited Singapore for a special Asia Pacific screening. The star-studded premiere was graced by showrunner J.D. Payne, director Charlotte Brändström, and the talented ensemble cast, including Charlie Vickers, Cynthia Addai-Robinson, Megan Richards, Markella Kavenagh, Charles Edwards, Ismael Cruz Córdova, Tyroe Muhafidin, and Trystan Gravelle.

    Group Photo with David Simonsen Director PV SEA MENA 2

    During the course of their tour, the team attended a special screening of the series’ first two episodes, with ardent fans of the franchise in attendance alongside media from Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines and India. Kicking off the momentous event was David Simonsen, Director of Amazon Prime Video SEA and MENA, followed by the grand screening. The team of this highly anticipated franchise also took over the city, visiting major attraction site Gardens By The Bay.

    TROP Cast Singapore Gardens By the Bay

    Building on season one’s epic scope and ambition, the new season plunges even its most beloved and vulnerable characters into a rising tide of darkness, challenging each to find their place in a world that is on the brink of calamity. As friendships are strained and kingdoms begin to fracture, elves, dwarves, orcs, men, wizards, and Harfoots face a growing struggle. In the face of mounting adversity, the forces of good fight fiercely to hold on to what matters to them the most: each other.

    Facebook – TheRingsOfPower
    X/Twitter – @TheRingsOfPower
    Instagram – @theringsofpower
    Hashtag – #TheRingsOfPower

  • VILLARICA triumphs with top campaign at Marketing Excellence Awards — again

    VILLARICA triumphs with top campaign at Marketing Excellence Awards — again

    VILLARICA earned the most trophies for a single campaign at the Marketing Excellence Awards for a second year in a row.

    The pawnshop pioneer received six Gold awards and retained its second overall position in the Philippine edition of the prestigious marketing competition for its “Usisa” campaign. The consumer-goods giant Unilever was hailed as the Marketer of the Year after picking up 17 awards for its numerous brands and campaigns.

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    “We’re not the biggest and that’s okay,” said Hans Villarica, who was proclaimed the Marketing Leader of the Year. “We’re just happy and grateful to be recognized for providing the best services and experiences to our customers.”

    VILLARICA’s “Usisa” entry secured the top prize for Excellence in Experiential Marketing, in Brand Strategy, in Advertising, in Content Marketing, and in TV/Video Advertising at last week’s ceremony at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila. It also won the Silver trophy for Social Media Marketing.

    These recognitions came on the heels of the pawnshop innovator’s strong showing at the 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, where it competed against companies from the region’s 29 markets and notched 10 wins, including People’s Choice for Favorite Company in the Financial Industries. 

    VILLARICA developed the “Usisa” campaign with marketing partners Silver Machine and Dentsu X to make transparency the norm in an industry notorious for opaque processes. It encouraged customers to visit, compare and scrutinize the loan offers of multiple pawnshops for the welfare of their families.

  • Best of Fujii Kaze 2020-2024 ASIA TOUR in Manila

    Best of Fujii Kaze 2020-2024 ASIA TOUR in Manila

    Fujii Kaze – the Japanese singer songwriter announces that he will be taking the “Best of Fujii Kaze 2020-2024 ASIA TOUR” to Asia cities by end of this year. The official tour image, and special website also revealed. 

    image 18

    Last year, Fujii Kaze just held his first Asia tour. This time, the tour will be scaled up to an arena venue and titled “Best of Fujii Kaze 2020-2024 ASIA TOUR,” which sets to hit eight cities in the region starting in Singapore from October 26. After kicking off in Singapore, the singer will travel to Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Taipei, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Manila, Seoul and more.  

    Promoted by Ovation Productions and AEG Presents Asia, “Best of Fujii Kaze 2020-2024 ASIA TOUR” in Manila will be taking place on 10 December 2024 at the Mall of Asia Arena. Tickets for the concert are priced from Php 3,800 (exclusive of ticketing charges). General on-sale will take place on August 30 (Friday) / 12 PM PHT via smtickets.com.  

    This tour announcement follows the conclusion of his successful two-day live concerts titled Fujii Kaze Stadium Live “Feelin’ Good,” which consisted of 2 shows with 140,000 people at Nissan Stadium in Japan.  

    “Best of Fujii Kaze 2020-2024”, which was previously available only on Apple Music and Spotify, is now available on all streaming platforms. 

    UPCOMING TOUR DATES

    October 26: Singapore – Singapore Indoor Stadium 
    November 2: Kuala Lumpur – Axiata Arena 
    November 9: Bangkok – Impact Arena 
    November 10: Bangkok – Impact Arena 
    November 16: Taipei – Taipei Arena 
    November 30: Jakarta – Beach City International Stadium 
    December 4: Hong Kong – AsiaWorld-Arena 
    December 10: Manila – SM Mall of Asia Arena 
    December 14: Seoul – Gocheok Sky Dome 
    And more… 

    Best of Fujii Kaze 2024-2024 ASIA TOUR in Manila

    Date: 10 December 2024 
    Show Time: 8PM PHT 
    Venue: Mall of Asia Arena 

    Ticket Prices: Php 8,800 / 8,000 / 7,000 / 5,800 / 4,800 / 3,800 (Plus ticketing charges) 

    Ticketing Link: smtickets.com
    our Information: https://fujiikaze.com/asiatour2024
    Fujii Kaze Official Store: https://fujiikaze.store.hehnrecords.com/
    Fujii Kaze Official Music Store: https://fujiikaze-musicstore.com/ja

    Listen to Fujii Kaze’s latest single “Feelin’ Go(o)d” HERE.   

    “Feelin’ Go(o)d” Official Music Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyU1t8G0LZw

    FOLLOW FUJII KAZE
    Instagram | X | YouTube I Facebook 

  • AOC Masters 2024 Brings International VALORANT Esports Competition to Asia Pacific Middle East Asia

    AOC Masters 2024 Brings International VALORANT Esports Competition to Asia Pacific Middle East Asia

    AOC, a global leader in gaming monitors and IT accessories and the #1 Gaming Monitor brand for three consecutive years from 2021 to 2023*, is thrilled to announce the AOC Masters 2024, set to take center stage at the Thailand Game Show from October 18th to 20th, 2024. This premier event will bring together top gamers and esports enthusiasts from around the world for an unforgettable weekend of competitive gaming, entertainment, and community engagement.

    International VALORANT Tournament Kicks Off with Local Qualifiers

    The AOC Masters 2024 will feature an exciting VALORANT tournament with representatives from 10 regions: Australia & New Zealand, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, the Middle East (MEA), Taiwan, and South Korea. The event will kick off with local qualifiers, giving each region’s top players to realize their dream to play like a pro, competing in a series of competitive events in mid-September 2024 where the exact dates will differ depending on the region. The top two players from each region will earn a coveted spot to represent their country at the main AOC Masters 2024 event in Bangkok on October 19, 2024. This prestigious event’s total prize value will be more than USD 30,000, including a cash prize pool of USD 3000. The qualifying matches will be held in various formats, including 1v1, Tandem Mode, and a 5v5 Show Match. This global high-stakes competition is a testament to AOC’s commitment to fostering local gaming talent and providing elite players with a platform to showcase their skills on the international stage.

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    Consumer promotion: AOC Masters Consumer Promo

    Promo Duration: August 27, 2024 – September 27, 2024

    AOC Monitor Philippines is thrilled to announce the AOC Masters Consumer Promo, an exciting opportunity for you to win a spectacular grand prize! Here’s your chance to embark on a thrilling adventure and experience the vibrant culture of Thailand. Don’t miss out!

    Grand Prize:

    How to Enter:

    1. Purchase: Buy any eligible AOC monitor.
    2. Register: Go to AOC Monitors Promo and fill out the form with your purchase details and required documents.

    For questions, email: marketing@mmdsg.com.ph or visit AOC Philippines on Facebook.

    Local Philippine Qualifiers

    The Local Philippine qualifier registration is currently ongoing. There are two categories in the Philippine Qualifiers, one is for KOL (Key Opinion Leaders) with a single platform following of not less than 15,000 and combined platforms following of 20,000. The other is for non-professional gamers who have not been a professional for the last 12 months. The winner from each group will be representing the Philippines at the regional playoff to be held at the Thailand Game Show from October 18th to 20th, 2024.

    For more information visit the AGON by AOC Facebook page

    Cosplay Contest, Mini Concert, and Interactive Booth Activities

    The event will offer more than just esports competition. Attendees can look forward to a vibrant cosplay contest showcasing creative fan costumes, as well as a mini concert featuring live performances from popular artists – creating a true festival-like atmosphere. Beyond the stage, the AOC booth will host a variety of walk-in tournaments, including TFT and LoL ARAM. This will allow attendees to participate and compete for exciting prizes. Visitors can also take the opportunity to experience the latest high-performance AOC gaming products firsthand, including QD-OLED monitors AG276QZD2 and AG346UCD, Mini-LED monitor Q27G4XM, Google Monitor with AI features Q27G4XY, and more.

    “As a long-standing supporter of the global esports community, AOC is thrilled to present the AOC Masters 2024 tournament,” said Kevin Wu, General Manager at MMD Singapore. “This event embodies our commitment to innovation and fostering elite gaming talent worldwide. We look forward to delivering immersive experiences and showcasing the latest advancements in gaming technology to our passionate fans and players.”

    The AOC Masters 2024 at the Thailand Game Show promises an action-packed weekend filled with gaming excellence and entertainment. Whether you’re a seasoned esports fan or new to the scene, this event has something for everyone. Stay tuned for our upcoming local qualifiers and KOL activities, then join us in Bangkok during the main event for an unforgettable experience.

    * No.1 Gaming Monitor Brand 2023, according to IDC Quarterly Gaming Tracker: Gaming Monitor 2023Q4 (≥144Hz)

  • WATCH: The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” Trailer Released—In Cinemas December 11

    WATCH: The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” Trailer Released—In Cinemas December 11

    The legendary tales of Middle-earth continue! Fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s mesmerizing world, brace yourselves as the trailer for the much-awaited “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” has just dropped, offering a glimpse into the epic battles and gripping drama awaiting you this December 11.

    An Epic Return to Middle-earth

    Set 183 years before the events of the beloved original trilogy, “The War of the Rohirrim” takes us deep into the annals of Rohan’s history. The film chronicles the harrowing tale of Helm Hammerhand, the legendary King of Rohan, and his daughter Héra as they face an unprecedented threat to their kingdom.

    When the ruthless Wulf, a Dunlending lord driven by vengeance for his father’s death, launches a sudden attack, Helm and his people must retreat to the ancient stronghold of the Hornburg—a fortress that will later become synonymous with epic battles: Helm’s Deep.

    But this is not just Helm’s story. As the situation becomes increasingly desperate, Héra, the courageous daughter of Helm, must step up to lead the resistance. The fate of Rohan hangs in the balance, and it’s up to her to summon the strength and resolve needed to combat the overwhelming forces threatening her people.

    The Voices Behind the Epic

    Directed by Kenji Kamiyama, known for his work on “Blade Runner: Black Lotus” and “Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex,” this film promises a fresh yet faithful take on Tolkien’s world. The voice cast is led by Brian Cox, who brings the formidable King Helm Hammerhand to life. Gaia Wise voices Héra, the brave daughter of Helm, while Luke Pasqualino takes on the role of Wulf, the antagonist whose thirst for vengeance drives the conflict.

    Adding to the excitement, Miranda Otto returns as Éowyn, the Shieldmaiden of Rohan, narrating this epic tale. Fans will remember her from the original “Lord of the Rings” Trilogy, where her performance left a lasting impact. The star-studded cast also includes Lorraine Ashbourne, Yazdan Qafouri, Benjamin Wainwright, and more, each adding depth and gravitas to this epic saga.

    Trailer THE LORD OF THE RINGS THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM

    Paying Homage to the Original Trilogy

    The creative minds behind this new installment have gone to great lengths to ensure that “The War of the Rohirrim” not only stands on its own but also honors the legacy of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. Philippa Boyens, one of the Oscar-winning screenwriters from the original films, is on board as a producer, ensuring that the essence of Tolkien’s world is preserved.

    Joining her are executive producers Fran Walsh, Peter Jackson, Sam Register, and others who have played crucial roles in bringing Middle-earth to life on the big screen. The screenplay is crafted by Jeffrey Addiss, Will Matthews, Phoebe Gittins, and Arty Papageorgiou, ensuring that the narrative stays true to the rich lore of J.R.R. Tolkien’s world.

    The creative team also features returning talents from “The Lord of the Rings” Trilogy, including Oscar winners Alan Lee and Richard Taylor, and renowned Tolkien illustrator John Howe. Their involvement guarantees that the visual storytelling will be nothing short of spectacular.

    A Sneak Peek into the Film’s Visual

    The trailer for “The War of the Rohirrim” is nothing short of breathtaking. From the sweeping landscapes of Middle-earth to the intense battle sequences, it’s clear that this film is set to deliver on all fronts. The emotional depth of the characters, particularly Héra’s journey, is highlighted, promising a story that will resonate with audiences both new and old.

    Fans can expect a masterful blend of epic action and heartfelt moments, as the story explores themes of honor, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bonds of family. It’s not just a film; it’s an experience that will transport you back to the magic of Middle-earth.

    “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” is set to be a cinematic event you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a die-hard Tolkien fan or someone looking for an epic adventure, this film has something for everyone.

    Opening in Philippine cinemas on December 11, 2024, it’s the perfect way to end the year with a journey into a world of wonder, bravery, and unforgettable stories. Don’t forget to join the conversation online using the hashtag #LOTR and share your excitement with fellow fans.

    “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” opens in Philippine cinemas on December 11, 2024. Mark the date and get ready to witness the battle that shaped the future of Rohan!

  • Meet the Star-Studded Voice Cast Behind “Transformers One,” Hitting Cinemas September 18

    Meet the Star-Studded Voice Cast Behind “Transformers One,” Hitting Cinemas September 18

    “This was a lot of fun,” says Chris Hemsworth in the newly released “Cast Featurette” for Transformers One. Hemsworth, who lends his voice to Orion Pax, headlines the star-studded cast in the first-ever fully CG-animated Transformers movie. As the untold origin story of the legendary Optimus Prime and Megatron, Transformers One is set to take audiences on a breathtaking journey, revealing how these sworn enemies were once as close as brothers.

    Joining Hemsworth is an all-star lineup that includes Brian Tyree Henry as D-16, Scarlett Johansson, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve Buscemi, Laurence Fishburne, and Jon Hamm. “We get to see all these characters be elevated in a completely different way than we’ve seen them before,” teases Henry, who voices the future Megatron.

    Ready to meet the characters? Here’s a quick look at the bots you’ll encounter in Transformers One, coming to Philippine cinemas on September 18.

    OPTIMUS
    ORION PAX (Chris Hemsworth)

    ORION PAX (Chris Hemsworth)

    Before he became the iconic Optimus Prime, he was Orion Pax – a dreamer and a rebel with a heart of gold. Orion is young, curious, and always ready to challenge the status quo on Cybertron. Though he’s charming and sees the best in everyone, his restless spirit often gets him into trouble, especially with his best friend, D-16. But as the battle for Cybertron’s future looms, Orion may be the one to change everything.

    MEGATRON
    D-16 (Brian Tyree Henry)

    D-16 (Brian Tyree Henry)

    D-16 is the rule-following, loyal friend who will one day transform into the feared Megatron. For now, he’s content with his lot in life as a miner in Iacon, looking up to Sentinel Prime. Although D-16 is principled and believes in justice, his friendship with the unruly Orion Pax often tests his patience. “If we survive this,” D-16 warns Orion, “I’m going to kill you!”

    BUMBLEBEE
    B-127 (Keegan-Michael Key)

    B-127 (Keegan-Michael Key)

    Loyal and endlessly optimistic, B-127 is the life of the party among the young Transformers. He’s got a penchant for nicknames, and his current favorite is “Badassatron.” B-127 may seem naïve, but his resilience and positivity make him the glue that holds his friends together, even when times get tough.

    ELITA
    ELITA-1 (Scarlett Johansson)

    ELITA-1 (Scarlett Johansson)

    Ambitious and supremely capable, Elita-1 is a force to be reckoned with. As a leader in the Energon mines, she manages the rowdy young bots like Orion Pax and D-16 with a mix of ruthless efficiency and dry humor. But beneath her strict exterior lies a bot with a sharp mind and a desire to prove herself.

    SENTINEL PRIME (Jon Hamm)

    The hero of Cybertron, Sentinel Prime, is a charismatic and commanding leader. Known for his showmanship and bravery, Sentinel Prime inspires awe with his intelligence and cool demeanor. As the leader of the Transformers, he’s the bot everyone looks up to in times of crisis.

    ALPHA TRION (Laurence Fishburne)

    As one of the ancient Primes, Alpha Trion is a wise and noble figure in Cybertron’s history. His bravery in defending Cybertron from the Quintessons is legendary, and he remains a revered ancestor among the Transformers.

    DARKWING (Isaac C. Singleton Jr.)

    Darkwing runs the Energon mining operation with an iron fist, showing little mercy to his workers. But when it comes to the Iacon 5000 race, this aggressive bot will stop at nothing to win, even if it means using dirty tricks to outmaneuver his rivals.

    AIRACHNID (Vanessa Liguori)

    Airachnid is a terrifying hunter with the ability to transform into a drone. Her razor-sharp arms and inescapable eyes make her a foe to be feared. Airachnid’s sinister laughter and eerie movements add to her chilling presence on the battlefield.

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    SHOCKWAVE (Jason Konopisos-Alvarez)

    Shockwave is a no-nonsense scientist with a passion for experimental weaponry. As a member of The High Guard, he’s a formidable opponent who relishes the chance to test his shock sticks on unsuspecting captives.

    SOUNDWAVE (Jon Bailey)

    Soundwave, the enforcer of The High Guard, keeps enemies in check with his powerful sound waves. His ability to scan electrical impulses makes him a dangerous adversary, both in the air and on the ground.

    JAZZ (Evan Michael Lee)

    Before he became one of Optimus Prime’s closest allies, Jazz was a young miner working alongside Orion Pax. Under Elita-1’s strict management, Jazz, Orion, and D-16 navigate the dangerous work of extracting volatile Energon from the mines.

    STARSCREAM (Steve Buscemi)

    Starscream, the ambitious leader of the High Guard, lives by the mantra, “All that counts is the strength of one bot over another!” His ruthless nature and unmatched aerial combat skills make him a formidable foe, even for the likes of Megatron.

    Transformers One rolls out into Philippine cinemas on September 18. Distributed by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures, this is one movie event you won’t want to miss. Join the conversation with the hashtag #TransformersOne and tag @paramountpicsph on social media.

    Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”

  • Female Narratives in Paint, on Canvas

    Female Narratives in Paint, on Canvas

    Creatives, like writers and artists, share a similar vein. When they’re starting out, they write about or create from what they know. As they mature and explore different aspects, however, their style evolves—it becomes richer, more varied. This blossoming of lush creativity is now on display at ARTablado in Robinsons Antipolo where the works of six female artists are in the spotlight. 

    PR ARtablado Her Art Her Story Birdie Chikledee by Dolores Van Duijvenbode

    “Her Art, Her Story: Celebrating Women’s Narratives” explores themes of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams as conjured by Aed Solis, Dolores Van, Elizabeth Esguerra Castillo, Mary Joy Ann Cruz Tuaño, Maxi Cajayon Tungol, and Yam Tamayo. All six are members of the ARTipolo Group.

    Pol Mesina, head of ARTipolo chose the six artists for the ARTablado exhibit because of their distinct styles and their surprising use of color. “They each have their own identities and a sizable portfolio. More importantly, they’re unafraid of showing their emotions through the art they create,” he said.    

    PR ARTablado Her Art Her Story Glaciers by Elizabeth Esguerra Castillo

    Solis started out by combining social realism with pastels but has evolved to realism using acrylics. “I paint to discover an art with freedom and no boundaries. I paint to express to others—the society, the environment—the things that I feel. It makes me happy,” Solis said.

    A classically trained artist in charcoal portraiture, Van Duijvenbode describes her art style as “intuitive” and based on strongly-felt emotions. “I paint to reignite my spark [as I am] coming back to a craft I never lost.  I paint because I am passionate and love what I do. I want to inspire others to follow in my footsteps but to continue to go for their dreams,” Van Duijvenbode said.

    PR ARTablado Her Art Her Story Kaya mo Yan Sis by IMax

    Aside from being a visual artist, Castillo is an author, journalist and poet. The intuitive artist has participated in local and international exhibits where her abstract, expressionist and surrealist style has been on display. 

    “I paint because through art, I can express my innermost emotions,” Castillo said. “When my muse prompts me, I create multiverses which depict worlds in all their beauty and madness. I also believe that art is therapeutic and helps to heal us emotionally, psychologically, spiritually and physically,” she added.

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    Tuaño describes her style of creating as a “progressive artistic experiment” and likens the act of painting to cooking a meal. “Painting and cooking are essentially the same experience: the thrill of creation, reconnection with sentiment or nostalgia, and finally consumption for enjoyment. The way I enjoy painting is similar to the way I enjoy cooking, where I prepare the ingredients, create a dish, and have loved ones and friends enjoy its sumptuous tastes afterwards. Except with art, the consumption never ends; it endures through time,” Tuaño said.

    Tamayo is a practicing lawyer and a self-taught artist. She describes her abstract works as “out of the box” because she wants the end result to feel random and unplanned—like “a colorful mess.”

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    “Painting is a form of release from the stress of having to constantly face adversaries as part of my day job as a litigation lawyer. When I paint, I only see beauty even in the darkest of hues, or the most torturous aspect of the creative journey,” Tamayo said. 

    Tungol is another self-taught artist who bravely works with mixed media. She is known for combining different paints such as oil, acrylic, gouache and raw, powdered pigments with lace, gems, sand and charcoal. 

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    “Painting is an opportunity for me to become productive.  It’s also so I can retain a semblance of individuality,” Tungol said.

    Tamayo put it best when she said, “If the eyes are the window to the soul, I would say a painting is a reflection of one’s innermost being. It is never impersonal. It is you, but in bits and pieces, in curves and lines, in drips and spots.”

    This is not the ARTipolo Group’s first partnership with ARTablado and by the looks of things, it won’t be the last. “We continue to partner with ARTablado because it provides us artists with a platform to showcase our works and to reach a wider audience,” Mesina said, adding that its location inside Robinsons Antipolo makes it accessible to both art enthusiasts and mall goers alike. 

    “Her Art, Her Story: Celebrating Women’s Narratives” runs until August 31 at ARTablado at Robinsons Antipolo.