Blog

REVIEW: The ASUS Vivobook S 15 Lets You Take the Power of AI Anywhere

The latest innovations in AI have truly revolutionized the digital landscape. This is why when looking for a laptop, an AI PC is a true game-changer in both productivity and creativity.

PC powerhouse ASUS integrates this cutting-edge technology into their already impressive laptops with the new ASUS Vivobook S 15. Aside from being the brand’s first Copilot+ PC and having a Qualcomm Snapdragon X chip powering it, there are a lot of exciting features to unwrap in this AI PC from ASUS.

We recently got our hands on the ASUS Vivobook S 15 (S5507) which runs on the Snapdragon X Plus. Here are our thoughts about this new AI-powered laptop.

First Impressions

Out of the box, the ASUS Vivobook S 15 is a charmer with its 15” surface (13.88″ width x 8.93″ depth) that feels premium to the touch. It has the Cool Silver color which looks clean with just a subtle branding of “ASUS Vivobook” to give it an identity.

The hinge side of the monitor’s back panel also has a slight inward step which is always a nice touch compared to the usual fully rectangle lid of most laptops.

Pulling it out and carrying it around feels just right. It is slim and fairly light at 1.42 kg, but it also has a weight to it that feels premium and sturdy.

I also like that it has a metal chassis, which is more reassuring when I’m out and about compared to having a plastic-bodied laptop in my bag.

Add the flexibility of the device’s 180-degree hinge, and the Vivobook S 15 is a highly portable and efficient productivity companion for students, digital nomads, and workers of different setups, be it at home, onsite, or a mix of both.

Stylish RGB Keyboard & Smart Gesture Touchpad

When you open up the laptop, you’ll be greeted by the 15.6-inch display along with the keyboard and touchpad combo.

The full keyboard offers comfort and speed for both number crunchers and wordsmiths. It offers 1.7mm key travel and minimal sound, perfect for working even in shared spaces.

A dedicated AI button sits beside the arrow keys, keeping your AI tools within reach all the time. More details on this later.

While the laptop’s back panel keeps things simple, the single-zone RGB backlight of its keyboard adds flair to your setup when at work. Set the mood with your chosen color and mode, which is available in Solid Color, Strobing, Breathing, or Rainbow.

The touchpad space is quite generous and comes with smart gestures to control volume, brightness, playback speed, and window navigation.

An Ultra-Vivid OLED Display

Now onto the display, the Vivobook S 15 has a 15.6-inch 3K OLED display (2880 x 1620) with 89% screen-to-body ratio and 120Hz refresh rate.

Combining the OLED display and 3K resolution along with the 100% DCI-P3 color gamut really ups the viewing experience. The colors are vivid, contrast is crisp, and highlights just pop. Streaming videos, gaming, and doing creative work is a delight with this device.

The laptop’s brightness goes up to 600 nits. I tested it under a small shade outdoors and I can still see what I’m working on pretty clearly at maximum brightness. It also has TÜV Rheinland low blue-light certification to ensure your eyes are protected.

This laptop still has the 16:9 aspect ratio, but with this quality of display and other impressive specs and features, I don’t see it as a dealbreaker.

Display is definitely one of the Vivobook S 15’s strongest suits. Whether you’re working in a room or al fresco, this laptop delivers a punchy display to power your productivity wherever you go.

Strong Speakers, Clear Calls, and Swift Connectivity

The Vivobook S 15 comes equipped with Harman Kardon speakers to complement the vivid viewing experience.

Even with the speakers being placed on the underside of the laptop, the sound still comes out loud and clear. When elevated, the sound comes out even better. You can also fine-tune these speakers via the Dolby Access app.

The laptop’s full HD IR camera and microphone with AI Noise Cancellation allow for clearer conference calls. The camera also has a sliding shutter for added privacy and security.

For connectivity, the Vivobook S 15 is also packed with ports for your needs.

On the left are the HDMI 2.1 port, two USB4 Type-C ports with display and power support, a MicroSD card reader, and an audio jack. On the right side are two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports and indicator lights.

It also combines Wi-Fi 7 and the Qualcomm FastConnect 7800 technology for an ultra-fast internet connection while its Bluetooth allows you to use three headphones simultaneously.

Powerful & Long-Lasting Performance

Let’s talk about power and performance. The Vivobook S 15 joins the curated lineup of laptops that sport a Qualcomm Snapdragon X chip. In our case, it’s the Snapdragon X Plus, while the pricier S5507-MA032WSM variant has the more powerful Snapdragon X Elite.

Tailored for AI computing, the Snapdragon X lineup proves to be a worthy rising competitor for the Intel, AMD, and Apple M chips.

Both the Snapdragon X Plus and Elite variants of the Vivobook S 15 are also complemented by 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD for peak performance.

Multitasking with productivity tools and browsing with over ten tabs both went smoothly. I also tested video editing tools such as CapCut and DaVinci Resolve, which both worked without issues.

Casual gaming can also be a treat with this device. I played the fast-paced Hades and the 3D game Honkai Impact 3rd, and they both ran smoothly even with Max settings. I did encounter compatibility issues with the game Valorant, which just refused to launch.

I also played Honkai: Star Rail which needed a lower resolution to run without frame drops. Thanks to the OLED display though, the game still looks fantastic and bursting with vivid colors.

ASUS’ IceCool thermal technology also seems to work well, as the laptop didn’t heat up significantly after multiple hours of play and I never noticed any fan noise.

For a closer look in its performance, here are the unit’s benchmark scores while in Performance mode:

Cinebench R23 – 6593 (Multi Core); 1087 (Single Core)
Geekbench 6 – 11032 (Multi Core); 2288 (Single Core)

Battery life is impressive too. The 70 Wh high-capacity battery promises over 18 hours of use. In my hands-on experience, the battery went down by 10% to 12% per hour when working and streaming (80% volume and 50% brightness). When playing performance-heavy games, it went down 12% to 15% every 30 minutes.

These are with the battery’s Balanced Mode, but you can prolong the use of your laptop with the Best Power Efficiency mode.

It supports USB fast charging and upon trying it out, the laptop juiced up from zero to about 50% in just 30 minutes when not in use. When using it for work or gaming, it charged 50% after an hour.

With the Vivobook S 15, you can do your daily tasks and play casual games anywhere you go for long hours without a hitch. With its AI capabilities, you can do your tasks even faster.

Built-in AI Features

As the first Copilot+ PC from ASUS, the Vivobook S 15 streamlines work and play through its AI features in many ways.
With a click of its dedicated key, the Copilot AI chatbot pops up ready to answer queries and requests. No need to go to your browser and type up ChatGPT or Gemini.

When it comes to its responses, the Copilot is often more direct and concise with its answers as long as your questions are specific. It doesn’t go off stretching what could’ve been a short answer like other AI tools seem to do frequently. That is, unless you ask it to.

Its answers are up to date, and I didn’t encounter any inaccuracies when fact-checking the data. If you need references for your research, it will also pull up links you can use. I asked it to give me links about a certain news topic, and it included the articles with thumbnails for easy navigation.

It can also generate images for your presentations or for online content use. For the best results, just keep descriptions clear. I asked it to create an image with specific details and I got it.

As expected, there are limits to how absurd, complicated, or NSFW your prompts can be to avoid abusing the technology. Don’t deliberately push the Copilot’s boundaries and you’ll be fine.

What really impresses me about Copilot though is its speed. Whether it’s answering a question or generating an image, the results are there in just a few seconds.

If you don’t want to type long questions or prompts, just use the microphone like I did, and the responses will also be read out loud by the AI with a very human-like voice. It also supports different languages. I asked it in Filipino via the microphone and it also answered with a fluent Filipino voice.

Outside the chatbox, you can also generate images from your simple drawings with the Paint app, which comes embedded with Cocreator. I just had to sign in and was instructed to download the Image Generation Extension from the Microsoft Store then everything went smoothly from there.

Make some scribbles, type in a prompt to describe it, and tweak the available settings and sliders. Cocreator will then use these as references to create an AI-generated image.

If you’re principled to avoid AI image generators like these though, there are still numerous AI features from this laptop that can boost both your human creativity and productivity.

For creatives and everyday users who always find their devices packed with photos and videos, the ASUS StoryCube app can help.

It compiles all your files from your cloud and devices and then uses AI to recognize the content to help you search, sort, and manage them. There’s nothing to worry too, as their privacy policy clearly states that all content stays in your device and won’t be transmitted elsewhere.

Live Captions is also part of this laptop’s AI arsenal. It captions and even translates calls in real time using AI. It doesn’t seem to support Filipino translation yet, but it’s pretty useful as it is not confined to any app.

You can also rely on the laptop’s AI Noise Canceling capability to keep calls clear. Meanwhile, Windows Studio Effects automatically applies improved lighting and blurred background to whatever platform you’re using, be it Zoom, Teams, Loom, or even with just your laptop’s camera app. It’s very accessible as it also shows up in the Quick Settings of your Taskbar.

For gamers, there’s also the Automatic Super Resolution which uses AI upscaling to help bridge the gap between high graphics and high frame rates for some games.

The Verdict: Highly Portable & Extremely Capable AI PC

The Vivobook S 15 has so much to offer for such a thin and lightweight laptop. It gives you the luxuries of an OLED display, powerful chipset, long-lasting battery, and the impressive AI features of a Copilot+ PC.

While some of these AI tools are available online, having them all in one place through Microsoft and Qualcomm’s trusted technology is such a boost in convenience and confidence.

Plus, its quality also meets its price point, making the ASUS Vivobook S 15 a worthy investment with its AI advantage that you can take anywhere you go.

You can now buy the new ASUS Vivobook S 15 at a price of P69,995 for the Snapdragon X Plus variant and P84,995 for the Snapdragon X Elite variant. It also comes with a free Office Home & Student 2021 and a 1 Year Microsoft 365 Personal subscription.

After your purchase, ASUS also provides peace of mind as this laptop comes with a free 4A Quality & Service warranty package.

Get your hands on the new ASUS Vivobook S 15 today through these stores.

Quick Specs

Display	15.6-inch 3K OLED
Processor	Snapdragon X Plus or X Elite
Graphics	Qualcomm Adreno GPU
Memory	16GB LPDDR5X
Storage	1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD
Operating System	Windows 11 Home
Battery	70WHrs, 3S1P, 3-cell Li-ion
Dimensions	13.88″ W x 8.93″ D x 0.58″ H
Weight	1.42 kg
Ports	2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A2x USB 4.0 Gen 3 Type-C (display / power delivery support)1x HDMI 2.1 TMDS1x 3.5mm Combo Audio JackMicro SD card reader
Price	P69,995 (Snapdragon X Plus); P84, 995 (Snapdragon X Elite)

September 18, 2024

Watch the Trailer: Robert Pattinson Stars in “Mickey 17,” From Oscar-winning Director Bong Joon Ho

What happens when death becomes your 9-to-5? From Bong Joon Ho, the visionary behind the Academy Award-winning film Parasite, comes Mickey 17 —a sci-fi thriller set to hit theaters on January 29, 2025. Robert Pattinson stars in this epic tale alongside Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo.

About “Mickey 17”

Written and directed by Bong Joon Ho, Mickey 17 promises to be yet another masterpiece from the director who captivated audiences worldwide with his unique blend of dark humor, social commentary, and thrilling storytelling. This time, Bong brings us into the world of Mickey Barnes, portrayed by Robert Pattinson, a man whose job requires him to die—and come back—over and over again.

Based on Edward Ashton’s novel Mickey 17, this film follows the story of Mickey Barnes, an “expendable”—a disposable employee sent on deadly missions on a distant ice planet to benefit humanity. But this time, Mickey isn’t willing to disappear quietly. Expect a gripping narrative filled with mind-bending twists, intense action, and existential questions about life, survival, and identity.

A Star-Studded Cast and Award-Winning Team

Robert Pattinson (The Batman, Tenet) leads the cast as the titular Mickey, delivering what is expected to be a career-defining performance. He’s joined by Naomi Ackie (Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker), Steven Yeun (Nope), Toni Collette (Hereditary), and Mark Ruffalo (Poor Things), making this ensemble cast one of the most exciting of 2025.

The film’s production team is just as impressive, with Oscar-winning producers Dede Gardner and Jeremy Kleiner (Moonlight, 12 Years a Slave) and Bong Joon Ho himself producing. Behind the camera, Oscar-nominated cinematographer Darius Khondji (Bardo, Okja) captures the visually stunning world of Mickey 17, while Oscar-nominated production designer Fiona Crombie (The Favourite, Cruella) builds it. The film is edited by Oscar nominee Yang Jinmo (Parasite), ensuring the seamless, immersive storytelling for which Bong Joon Ho is known.

Rounding out the creative team is visual effects supervisor Dan Glass (Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore), who ensures the film’s cutting-edge sci-fi visuals, and costume designer Catherine George (Okja, Snowpiercer), whose work will bring Mickey’s icy world to life.

A Story of Survival and Rebellion

At its core, Mickey 17 is a story about human resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. How far would you go to survive? And when does survival turn into rebellion? Pattinson’s Mickey will grapple with these questions as he fights against the system that sees him as nothing more than a replaceable cog in the machine.

Don’t Miss Mickey 17 – In Cinemas January 29, 2025

Warner Bros. Pictures proudly presents Mickey 17, a collaboration between Plan B Entertainment, Offscreen Production, and Kate Street Picture Company. Experience this groundbreaking film from Bong Joon Ho, only in cinemas starting January 29, 2025. Mark your calendars, and prepare for a cinematic journey like no other!

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”}

September 18, 2024
Meet the Time-Travelers of the Epic Thai Sci-Fi Film “Taklee Genesis: Worlds Collide”

Get ready for an adventure like no other as “Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide” takes you on a thrilling ride through time and space! This highly anticipated Thai sci-fi epic follows the journey of Stella (Paula Taylor) as she returns to her rural hometown and reconnects with her father, who mysteriously vanished 30 years ago. With the help of the “Taklee Genesis” transporter, Stella, her daughter Valen (Nina Nutthatcha Padovan), and her childhood friends embark on a mission to bring him back, crossing timelines and encountering otherworldly forces along the way.

Explore the Characters of “Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide”

Stella (Paula Taylor) – The Fearless Protagonist
Paula Taylor plays Stella, a woman torn between caring for her ailing mother and discovering the truth about her father’s disappearance. Her father’s fate is revealed when she stumbles upon the “Taklee Genesis” transporter, leading her on a perilous journey across dimensions. Drawn to the film by director Chookiat “Matthew” Sakveerakul’s immense passion, Taylor recalls, “He was just so intuitive in the way he was telling his vision and just everything. He was so passionate, and I told him ‘You know what I want? To be a part of your passion. I wanna be in whatever you’ve seen,’” she says.

Ithi (Peter Corp Dyrendal) – The Dreamer Turned Adventurer
Peter Corp Dyrendal steps into the role of Ithi, a humble schoolteacher with a longing to become an archaeologist. His dreams become reality when his friend Stella unlocks the secrets of the “Taklee Genesis.” Dyrendal was immediately hooked by the project’s fresh concept. “I don’t think there’s ever been a movie like this in Thailand before. It’s a sci-fi project that includes time travels, monsters and a lot of challenges, a lot of computer graphics. I know it’s a very enticing project,” he says.

Kong (War Wanarat) – The Mysterious Resident
War Wanarat portrays Kong, a local from Ban Don Hai with a perplexing secret—he appears not to have aged since Stella last saw him 30 years ago. Though Kong has no recollection of his childhood, his father fiercely protects any information about it. As a sci-fi enthusiast, War was thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking project. He shared his excitement, “I was over the moon. When Matthew first contacted me and mentioned the word ‘sci-fi,’ I told my manager, ‘Let’s do it!’ My team then said, ‘Calm down! Let’s look at the script and contract first, shall we?’ and I was like, ‘I’ve got to. I’ve just gotta be in this film.’”

Valen (Nina Nutthatcha Padovan) – The Brave Daughter
Nina Nutthatcha Padovan plays Valen, Stella’s courageous daughter who joins the mission to rescue her grandfather. Valen’s bravery shines through in the film’s most intense scenes, including one unforgettable moment. “The fun part of this movie was the running. When it had dead people falling from the sky, that was so much fun, but it was scary at the same time.”

Experience the Journey of a Lifetime

“Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide” promises an extraordinary blend of action, time travel, and breathtaking CGI that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Don’t miss out on this groundbreaking film as it arrives in Philippine cinemas on September 18! Get ready to immerse yourself in this world of sci-fi wonder and heart-pounding adventure.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #TakleeGenesis!

Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

September 17, 2024
Subway®’s new Smoky Malt BBQ Pulled Pork is your newest happy hour treat

Subway® brings the happy hour vibe to everyone’s taste buds with the Smoky Malt BBQ Pulled Pork sub! This newest offering is available in all Subway® restaurants nationwide until November 19, 2024.

This mouthwatering masterpiece features tender pulled pork generously topped with rich, smoky malt bbq sauce, savoury cheddar cheese, and a medley of crisp, fresh veggies, including lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, pickles, green pepper, and white onions layered in for a satisfying crunch that will surely turn any hour into a happy hour.

Stacked from 16 images. Method=B (R=8,S=4)

Freshly prepared every day, the new Smoky Malt BBQ Pulled Pork sub is inspired by our well-loved beverage to bring cheers to a happy hour with every bite!

Just when you thought happy hour couldn’t get happier, Subway® guests can enjoy a FREE exclusive Subway x A&W coaster for every purchase of a Smoky Malt BBQ Pulled Pork regular meal with choices from 6-inch, footlong, or wrap. This offer is available on Mondays and Thursdays from 2pm to 5pm.

On weekends, indulge in the Subway® bundle offer, which includes two (2) Smoky Malt BBQ Pulled Pork subs or wraps, paired with two (2) smooth A&W Root Beers, and two (2) exclusive coasters. This happy hour offer is ideal for friends and family looking to savor the rich flavors together while enjoying a refreshing beverage and a unique keepsake. This is available at participating restaurants for takeout only on Saturdays and Sundays from 2pm to 5pm.

The Subway® Smoky Malt BBQ Pulled Pork sub and the associated offers are available until November 19, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to experience this limited-time delight that’s sure to become your newest happy hour craving. Head to any Subway® restaurant near you to experience happy hour anytime today! For more information, visit Subway® Philippines’ official social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram

September 17, 2024
Experience a World of Emotions: Naoko Yamada’s “The Colors Within” Premieres in PH Cinemas on October 23

From the visionary director of the beloved anime series “K-On!,” Naoko Yamada brings another heartwarming masterpiece to life with her latest film, “The Colors Within.” Set to open in the Philippines on October 23, this beautifully crafted anime film invites viewers to embark on an unforgettable journey of friendship, music, and the vibrant emotions that color our world.

A Vibrant Tale of Friendship

At the heart of “The Colors Within” is Totsuko, an ordinary high school student with an extraordinary gift—she can see the colors of people’s emotions. These colors help her understand the inner worlds of those around her, each hue representing a unique feeling. But her favorite color belongs to her classmate Kimi, who exudes a beautiful shade that resonates deeply with Totsuko.

As their bond strengthens, Totsuko, Kimi, and a quiet but talented classmate named Rui form a band. Their shared love for music becomes the canvas on which they paint their emotional journeys, creating melodies that reflect their deepest thoughts and connections.

A Global Sensation

“The Colors Within” first captivated audiences when it made its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France. Critics praised its emotional depth, captivating animation, and enchanting musical score. It was quickly recognized as a standout in its genre, winning the prestigious Golden Goblet Award for Best Animation Film at the 2024 Shanghai International Film Festival.

A Cinematic Experience Like No Other

Naoko Yamada’s signature style shines through in “The Colors Within,” combining poignant storytelling with stunning visuals. Known for her delicate portrayal of emotions in series like “K-On!,” Yamada takes viewers on an evocative journey, blending the universal language of music with the complex, colorful world of human emotions.

With a visually stunning palette and a heartfelt narrative, “The Colors Within” promises to be a cinematic experience that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.

Save the Date – October 23!

Don’t miss your chance to see this highly anticipated anime film as it makes its Philippine debut in cinemas on October 23. Whether you’re a fan of “K-On!” or simply in search of a moving story about friendship and music, “The Colors Within” is a must-see.

For the latest updates on the film, including behind-the-scenes content and special features, follow Encore Films PH on Facebook and Instagram (@encorefilmsph).

September 16, 2024
REVIEW: A Promising Irreverent Cop Show: a review of the first 3 episodes of ‘Seoul Busters’

The first three episodes of the upcoming Disney+ streaming show, ‘Seoul Busters,’ features irreverent humor that goes no-holds barred with its humor and comedy. Unlike other comedic K-drama cop shows that takes its storylines seriously while dropping comic moments and funny dialogue here and there, ‘Seoul Busters’ is more about having fun and cracking jokes at almost every turn. It feels more like a situational comedy than a comedic cop serial, which means that it has a different flavour but is still distinctly a K-drama.

The 12-episode show is about the worst performing squad in the violent crimes police squad. They include Moo Jung-ryeok (Park Ji-Hwan), who is a tough talking, hot-headed, former member of the National Boxing team; Jeong Jeong-hwan (Seo Hyun-woo), an obsequious detective who is always pandering to anyone of authority; Seo Min-seo (Park Se-wan), the only woman in the group who is as tough talking as the guys but is secretly hiding her longing for a boyfriend; and the rookie, Jang Tan-sik (Lee Seung Woo), who appears to be not very bright or not at all capable but is extremely enthusiastic and eager to be helpful.

Combined, they form the lowest-rank squad and are a constant pain to their superintendent. It’s so bad that they were forced to relocate in a former day care center when their office was up for renovation. The visual comedy of these tough talking police detectives trying to work in the setting of a day care center. The building interiors are colorful, there’s a ball pool, a slide, and most of the chairs are built for children. In two episodes of the first three episodes, there’s an interrogation scene where they are in a room with tiny chairs and tables and the Moo Jung-ryeok and the suspect have to play out an interrogation scene while sitting in seats made for children. The idea of it is hilarious.

Things change when a new captain is brought into play. Enter Dongban Yu-bin (Kim Dong-wook). He’s smart, capable, and multi-awarded and while he was set for a job at the administrative level, he requested to be transferred to violent crimes as he feels he still has much to learn on the field. He is perfect in every way, entering a crime scene and observing little details that is shown to the audience by subtitles popping out with every detail that catches his attention. He has relatively poor social skills, though, and as he is assigned to the squad, Moo Jung-ryeok immediately dislikes him, Jeong Jeong-hwan tries to get to his good side, Seo Min-seo is fighting her growing feelings for him, and Jang Tan-sik is trying his best to still be helpful.

The first episode of the 12-episode series is set to establish the characters and the milieu and introduces us to the first case. The second and third episode shows the detectives at work, trying to solve the case and getting into hilarious shenanigans while playing out the dynamics of the new team. The first case gets resolved by the end of episode three before they introduce a new case, so it seems that the show may take on an episodic structure with the goal of seeing if Dongban Yu-bin has what it takes to raise the squad from the lowest to the level of even being competent.

While the first case is solved through some detective work, the intricacy of the crime is revealed so it creates a whodunit structure, the show is really more focused on the humor aspect. It is not afraid to go highbrow or even low brow (sometimes even veering into toilet humor). It seems nothing is off limits at the moment and so how the show will continue to evolve will be quite interesting.

For some reason, the show reminds me of ‘Brooklyn 99’ and if the humor continues in this vein, it’s going to be a fun 12 episodes.

My Rating:

SEOUL BUSTERS is now streaming on Disney+. Watch it here.

September 15, 2024
Lady Gaga Explores the Chaotic Music Within Arthur Fleck in “Joker: Folie à Deux,” In Cinemas October 2

In Joker: Folie à Deux, the sequel to the 2019 Oscar-winning film, the music within Arthur Fleck takes center stage, revealing more of his complex and fractured psyche. Writer, director, and producer Todd Phillips knew that music would play a vital role in the film’s evolution.

“There’s a romance to Arthur in the first film, like when he dances in the bathroom,” Phillips reflects. “Arthur has music in him. That was a logical leaping-off point for the sequel.”

Joaquin Phoenix, who reprises his Oscar-winning role as Arthur Fleck/Joker, adds, “We started talking about music very early on.”

The Music Inside Arthur Fleck

In this new chapter, Arthur finds himself institutionalized at Arkham Asylum, facing the consequences of his crimes as the Joker. Struggling to reconcile his two identities, Arthur not only discovers love but also unlocks the music that has been a part of him all along.

For Phoenix, performing live renditions of songs during filming brought a rawness to the experience. “We had to perform live and perform the songs in ways that maybe weren’t the most beautiful renditions of the song,” says Phoenix, laughing. “There was something very exciting about that.”

Lady Gaga’s Take on Harley Quinn and Arthur’s Music

The film introduces Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn, Arthur’s twisted love interest, marking her debut in the Joker franchise. For Gaga, the music within Arthur is a mirror of his chaotic and fractured soul.

“This music within him, it’s messy, chaotic,” says the Grammy winner. “It’s expressing the complexity of love and in a way brings Arthur to life.”

As Arthur stumbles through his journey of love and self-discovery, the music becomes an essential thread that ties the story together. The chaotic sounds reflect the Joker’s unhinged persona while highlighting the emotions that simmer beneath the surface.

What to Expect in Joker: Folie à Deux

Joker: Folie à Deux is set to offer a darker, more twisted exploration of Arthur Fleck’s transformation. With Phillips’ signature storytelling and Phoenix and Gaga’s captivating performances, this sequel promises to take audiences on an emotional rollercoaster filled with romance, chaos, and music.

Joker: Folie à Deux will be released in cinemas across the Philippines on October 2, 2024, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company. Don’t miss this explosive return to the world of Gotham’s most infamous villain. #JokerMovie #FolieADeux #ArthurFleck

September 13, 2024
Critics Hail “Transformers One” as the Best in the Franchise Yet!

The wait is over, and critics have spoken! “Transformers One” is hitting theaters soon, and early reviews are giving fans plenty to be excited about. Here’s what critics are raving about the new animated blockbuster.

“Best Transformers Film to Date” — Critics Praise Story and Direction

“Transformers One” has captivated critics with its rich storytelling and emotional depth. Next Best Picture declares, “Transformers One is by far and away the best Transformers film to date.” The film delves into the origins of iconic characters Optimus Prime and Megatron, revealing their heartbreaking journey from brothers to enemies. Directed by Josh Cooley, this animated feature has impressed reviewers with its flawless direction, expertly balancing humor, action, and heart.

One reviewer noted, “Josh Cooley directed this animated film to perfection, down to the last comedic and action beat, all backed by an epic score and an excellent voice cast.”

Stunning Animation Wows Audiences

According to The Hollywood Reporter, “gorgeous 3D-style computer animation” which they described as “a wonder to behold throughout.” They also described the story as a “thoroughly entertaining origin story that even the uninitiated can enjoy. Besides the raucous, de rigueur action sequences, Transformers One provides numerous witty jokes of both the verbal and visual variety and – surprise, surprise – genuine emotion. Consider this a franchise revitalized.”

Nuanced Characters Add New Depth to the Franchise

Variety lauded the film’s nuanced portrayal of its beloved characters, saying, “while still delivering the fun and excitement expected of Hasbro’s metamorphosizing robots, Transformers One approaches the well-known characters with a degree of nuance and complexity that marks the most sophisticated onscreen portrait of them to date.”

MovieWeb: “Raise Your Expectations!”

MovieWeb was equally impressed, celebrating the film’s thoughtful script and strong themes. Their review highlighted “Transformers One is a mesmerizing CGI adventure chock-full of thrilling action scenes, great humor, and a thoughtful script with powerful themes. Raise your expectations, because Transformers One sets a new high standard for the long-running franchise,” lauded MovieWeb.

An All-Star Voice Cast

The star-studded cast has also been a highlight for critics. With the likes of Chris Hemsworth (Orion Pax/Optimus Prime), Brian Tyree Henry (D-16/Megatron), Scarlett Johansson (Elita-1), Keegan-Michael Key (B-127), and Steve Buscemi (Starscream), this ensemble cast brings a new level of energy and emotion to the film.

Comicbook.com echoed these sentiments, praising the voice cast and calling the story “exceptionally strong story,” voice cast and animation, and the reviewer said that “I would be remiss by not calling this the best Transformers film since the 1980s animated film. If this is the future of the Transformers franchise, then Autobot and Decepticons fans have a bright future to look forward to indeed.”

Fans Are Loving It Too

Early fan reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. The first public screenings in the U.S. left audiences thrilled, with fans praising the movie’s breathtaking animation, compelling storyline, and standout performances.

Don’t Miss the Post-Credits Scenes

As a final treat, Transformers One includes two post-credit scenes that fans won’t want to miss. Be sure to stay seated until the very end for extra surprises!

Rolling Out in Theaters Soon!

Transformers One hits Philippine cinemas on September 18. Distributed by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures, the film promises to be a must-see event for Transformers enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Join the conversation online using the hashtag #TransformersOne and tag @paramountpicsph for the latest updates!

_{Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”}

September 13, 2024
Together Until the End: Watch the Final Trailer for “Venom: The Last Dance”
Eddie and Venom’s partnership faces its ultimate test as their story reaches a dramatic conclusion in “Venom: The Last Dance.“ Slated to crash into Philippine cinemas on October 23, fans can now watch the emotional and thrilling final trailer. Get ready for an epic farewell to one of Marvel’s most complex antiheroes!

About Venom: The Last Dance

Tom Hardy reprises his iconic role as Venom in this highly anticipated finale. The film dives deep into Eddie Brock and Venom’s unbreakable yet tumultuous bond as they navigate the chaos closing in on them. Hunted by both the human and symbiote worlds, the duo faces their toughest challenge yet. As the net tightens, Eddie and Venom must make a heart-wrenching decision that will decide their fate—forever.

Venom: The Last Dance promises a mix of heart, action, and suspense, delivering a finale that fans won’t forget. As the curtains fall on this legendary partnership, audiences will be on the edge of their seats for the final ride.

Stellar Cast and Creative Team

The film features an all-star cast, including:
- Tom Hardy as Venom/Eddie Brock
- Chiwetel Ejiofor
- Juno Temple
- Rhys Ifa n s
- Peggy Lu
- Alanna Ubach
- Stephen Graham
Directed by Kelly Marcel, who also penned the screenplay based on a story co-written by Marcel and Tom Hardy, this film promises to be a gripping conclusion to the Venom trilogy. Produced by Avi Arad, Matt Tolmach, Amy Pascal, Kelly Marcel, Tom Hardy, and Hutch Parker, Venom: The Last Dance is shaping up to be a cinematic event to remember.

Watch in Cinemas This October

Mark your calendars! Venom: The Last Dance will hit Philippine theaters on October 23. Don’t miss your chance to witness the epic finale. Distributed by Columbia Pictures, the local arm of Sony Pictures Releasing International, this is one ride you’ll want to experience on the big screen.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}
September 13, 2024
“The Wild Robot”: A Timeless Tale Transforms from Bestseller to Big Screen Adventure
#1 New York Times bestselling novel The Wild Robot by Peter Brown is set to make its highly anticipated cinematic debut this October. Directed by Chris Sanders, the mind behind How to Train Your Dragon and The Croods, and produced by DreamWorks Animation, this animated adaptation is bound to captivate audiences worldwide.

A New Kind of Adventure

Described by DreamWorks Animation President Margie Cohn as “a once-in-a-generation book,” The Wild Robot tells the heartwarming tale of Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island. The character, voiced by Academy Award® winner Lupita Nyong’o, embarks on a profound journey of survival, self-discovery, and connection with nature. Roz’s encounters with the island’s wildlife gradually transform her from an outsider into a beloved member of this untamed world.

Audiences will be swept away by both the stunning natural landscapes and the emotional depth of Roz’s story. Margie Cohn shares, “At DreamWorks, our goal is to transport audiences into immersive places that they’ve never experienced before, whether it’s the fairytale landscapes of Shrek and Puss in Boots, the fantastical prehistoric world of The Croods or the natural beauty of Kung Fu Panda and, of course, the How to Train Your Dragon films,” Cohn says. “But our films also explore the emotional terrain of what it means to be alive: to be lonely, to be afraid, to experience the thrill of the unknown, to find the brave places inside yourself that you may not have known existed, and, above all, to find your home, and your family, in whatever form that may be. We were thrilled that Peter trusted us with his story.”

A Director’s Personal Connection

Chris Sanders, the three-time Academy Award-nominated director, discovered The Wild Robot through his daughter’s school project and was immediately drawn to the novel’s emotional resonance. “What struck me most about the book was its deceptively simple yet profound emotional depth,” Sanders says. “I connected with its innocence and its earnestness. I’m drawn to stories with strong emotional undercurrents. While I appreciate big adventure stories, it’s the quieter, more intimate moments that truly resonate. These are the elements I prioritize as a filmmaker, and I thought The Wild Robot exemplified them beautifully.”

Sanders’s expertise in crafting emotionally driven films ensures that The Wild Robot will be more than just an adventure – it will be a poignant exploration of identity and the bonds that form in the most unexpected places.

Bringing The Vision to Life

Author Peter Brown, whose lifelong passion for animation shaped his storytelling, was deeply involved in the film’s adaptation process. “When I heard that DreamWorks wanted to make a movie based on The Wild Robot, it felt like my life was coming full circle,” Brown says. “Books and movies are very different art forms, so it’s only natural for The Wild Robot movie to differ from the book, but I had numerous discussions with the filmmakers, and I knew their goal was to capture the spirit of the story that I had dreamed up years ago.”

The all-star cast includes:
- Lupita Nyong’o as Roz, the stranded robot
- Pedro Pascal as the sly fox Fink
- Catherine O’Hara as the quirky opossum Pinktail
- Bill Nighy as the wise goose Longneck
- Kit Connor as the young gosling Brightbill
- Stephanie Hsu as Vontra, another key robot character
- Plus, appearances from Mark Hamill, Matt Berry, and Ving Rhames
About ‘The Wild Robot‘

The Wild Robot is an extraordinary adventure that blends technology and nature. The story follows Roz, a ROZZUM unit 7134, who is shipwrecked on an uninhabited island and must learn to adapt to her harsh surroundings. As Roz encounters the island’s animals, she forms meaningful connections, including a touching relationship with an orphaned gosling named Brightbill. Through these interactions, Roz discovers the essence of humanity in the most unexpected ways.

With its beautiful animation, talented cast, and heartwarming narrative, The Wild Robot is poised to be a film that resonates deeply with audiences of all ages.

Experience the Journey in Cinemas

Get ready to connect with your wild side! The Wild Robot opens in Philippine cinemas on October 9. Expect a visually stunning, emotionally rich film that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Stay updated on the latest news by following Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Join the conversation using #TheWildRobotMoviePH.

_{Photo and video credit: “Universal Pictures International”}
September 12, 2024