Black Cap Pictures presents an electrifying cinematic experience with Real Life Fiction, a drama thriller that pairs Piolo Pascual and Jasmine Curtis-Smith in a story that blurs the line between reality and illusion. Directed by the visionary Paul Soriano, this film delves deep into the psyche of an actor who is losing himself after years of fame.
The Story: When Reality Becomes Fiction
Real Life Fiction follows the journey of Paco, portrayed by the legendary Piolo Pascual, an actor whose illustrious career takes a dark turn as he decides to write, direct, and star in a film that dangerously mirrors his own unraveling. As Paco pushes himself to the brink, the line between his character and his reality becomes increasingly blurred, leading to a haunting exploration of identity, truth, and the perils of fame.
Jasmine Curtis-Smith
Jasmine Curtis-Smith stars as Paula, Paco’s on-and-off-screen muse, whose presence in his life further complicates his grasp on reality. The chemistry between Pascual and Curtis-Smith is palpable, adding a layer of intensity and intrigue to an already compelling narrative.
Piolo Pascual
A Stellar Cast in a Riveting Tale
Real Life Fiction features a standout performance by Epy Quizon, who plays Paco’s stern but caring manager. His role adds depth and gravitas to the story, grounding Paco as he spirals deeper into his self-made abyss. Additionally, the film boasts the special participation of acclaimed filmmaker Lav Diaz, who appears as the enigmatic owner of an eclectic pawnshop – a place that becomes crucial in Paco’s search for his true self.
Epy Quizon
Behind the Scenes: A Pandemic-Era Production
Directed by Paul Soriano and produced by TEN17P, Viva Films, and Spring Films, Real Life Fiction was shot during the challenging period of the pandemic. The film’s production reflects the intensity and urgency of the times, lending authenticity and raw emotion to the final product. Distributed by Black Cap Pictures, this gripping drama thriller is set to be the must-watch film of the season.
Mark Your Calendars: Exclusive Release on August 28
Real Life Fiction will be exclusively released at SM Cinemas nationwide starting August 28. With its R16 rating by the MTRCB, this film promises to challenge perceptions and provoke deep thought, making it a cinematic experience like no other.
The glitzy New York premiere of It Ends With Us turned into an unexpected comedy show when Hollywood A-listers Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman made a surprise appearance to support Reynolds’ wife, Blake Lively. The duo, known for their on-and-off-screen banter, brought an extra dose of fun to the event when they ambushed Brandon Sklenar, Lively’s co-star and on-screen love interest.
A Surprise of Epic Proportions
Reynolds, who attended the premiere with his mother, Tammy Reynolds, couldn’t resist the opportunity to inject some humor into the proceedings. As Sklenar was finishing up an interview, Reynolds swooped in, taking over the interviewer’s chair with his signature charm. With a twinkle in his eye, Reynolds began playfully questioning Sklenar about his role as Atlas Corrigan, teasing him about replacing Reynolds in the fictional love triangle. Tammy Reynolds and Hugh Jackman soon joined in, making Sklenar the good-natured target of their jokes. The hilarious exchange was a highlight of the evening, capturing the spirit of camaraderie and fun that Reynolds and Jackman are famous for.
Blake Lively is the moment as she stuns in vintage Versacevia Blake Lively’s Instagram @blakelively
Blake Lively’s Nostalgic Fashion Moment
Not to be outdone, Blake Lively made her own statement on the red carpet. She arrived wearing a vintage Versace dress from the Spring 2003 collection—a gown famously worn by Britney Spears in 2002. In an Instagram story, Lively revealed that the choice was a tribute to the pop icon, calling Spears “the ultimate queen who made us all want to sparkle and write and share our stories.” The homage was met with enthusiastic applause from fans, who appreciated the nod to a nostalgic pop culture moment.
From left to right: Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, his mother Tammy Reynolds, and Brandon Sklenar cozying up at the New York premiere of “It Ends With Us”
It Ends With Us marks the cinematic debut of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, a powerful narrative that explores themes of love, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships. The story follows Lily Bloom (Blake Lively), a woman who has overcome a difficult past to build a new life in Boston. Her romance with the charming neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni) is tested when her first love, Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar), reenters her life, forcing her to confront her past and make tough choices about her future.
Directed by Justin Baldoni and featuring a stellar cast including Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, Jenny Slate,Hasan Minhaj, Amy Morton, and Brandon Sklenar, It Ends With Us is a must-watch. The screenplay, crafted by Christy Hall, stays true to Hoover’s emotional and gripping novel, promising an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman Crash the “It Ends With Us” NY Premiere
Now Showing in Philippine Cinemas
It Ends With Us premiered in the Philippines on August 7, with distribution by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Fans are encouraged to join the conversation using the hashtag #ItEndsWithUsMovie and to follow @columbiapicph for updates and more.
Prepare to be captivated by “Blink Twice,” the directorial debut of Zoë Kravitz, known for her dynamic roles in “X-Men: First Class,” the “Fantastic Beasts” films, and the Emmy-winning TV series “Big Little Lies.” The film, which stars Channing Tatum and Naomi Ackie, promises to be a perfect blend of psychological thriller and horror. “I’m a huge fan of the psychological thriller, horror genre,” says Kravitz. “You have to try to find out what’s going on.”
A Sneak Peek into the Thrills Ahead
Catch a glimpse of the excitement in the “First Look Featurette,” where Kravitz and her cast discuss the film’s intriguing plot and dynamic characters. Channing Tatum shares his admiration for Kravitz, saying, “Zoë Kravitz is insanely smart. She leads from a place that isn’t just all heart, and it’s not all just brain. It’s something else – and that’s what the movie really feels like.”
A Story of Suspense and Mystery
In “Blink Twice,” sparks fly when tech billionaire Slater King, played by Tatum, meets Frida, a cocktail waitress portrayed by Naomi Ackie, at his fundraising gala. He invites her to join him and his friends on a dream vacation to his private island. However, as strange events unfold, Frida must question her reality and uncover the truth to survive the mysterious happenings on the island.
Mark Your Calendars
Don’t miss this gripping film, distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company. “Blink Twice” opens exclusively in cinemas on August 21. Get ready for a cinematic experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
Join the conversation using #BlinkTwiceMovie and be part of this thrilling journey.
An artists’ group formed only this year is holding its first exhibit featuring works by its members at ARTablado in Robinsons Antipolo this month. Uswag—an interchangeable Bisaya verb that means to progress, to develop, to advance or to prosper—was formed when a number of visionary artists came together earlier this year with a shared mission.
Their goal? To explore the words of desire to promote traditional artistic techniques amidst new and advanced technology. It also aims to challenge conventional artistic norms and explore the intersection of art through traditional techniques.
“The group was formed with the intention of uniting all the artists we had met in our past exhibits. We believe that this platform is a good avenue for us artists to know each other more and to share [what we’ve learned],” recounted Jhon Paul “Juan El Pintor” Sto. Domingo, one of the group’s founding members.
He said Uswag is unique aside from their different art styles is their drive to make things possible. “We hope to achieve this by helping each other become better artists and by training the spotlight on artists we think are deserving of attention,” he added.
Aside from Jhon, the group’s other founding members come from all across the Philippines with a shared fascination for the arts and in promoting diverse cultural heritage and talents. Through their art, outreach efforts, exhibitions, and collaborations, the Uswag art group aims “to ignite a sense of wonder and curiosity about expanding visual interpretation through art, and inspiring people of all ages to look up and dream of the possibilities beyond our God-given talents.” For their first-ever exhibit as members of Uswag, they chose the theme “Colorful Narratives,” on view at ARTablado at Robinsons Antipolo until August 15. The immersive art exhibit invites visitors to explore a vibrant tapestry of stories told through the language of color, and features a diverse array of artworks that celebrates the expressive power of color.
“Since we have different stories, and backgrounds when it comes to art, we thought the theme of ‘Colorful Narratives’ captures what we have to offer as individuals—our uniqueness, and our humble beginnings,” Jhon Paul said. The exhibit features a mix of mediums in each art piece and were carefully selected to highlight the versatility and impact of color in visual art. Bold, primary colors command attention, while subtle gradients and blends invite closer inspection, revealing layers of meaning and symbolism. Visitors are encouraged to engage not only with the visual spectacle before them but also with the stories embedded within each artwork. Artist statements and interactive displays provide insights into the creative processes behind the pieces, offering a deeper understanding of how color serves as a universal language of expression.
Menchie Alunan Vitente, one of the participating artist, recounted how preparing for the exhibit took much of the participating artists’ time since all of them wanted to meet the deadlines that had been set. “Everything turned out well and we were all able to meet our deadlines,” she said, adding that they viewed ARTablado as a great venue for them to showcase their talents. “We know that opportunities to spotlight the different artists’ talents that’s why we’re blessed that ARTablado is here to cater to Filipino artists,” Menchie said.
Aside from Jhon and Menchie, the other participating artists from Uswag Art Group are: Aldrin Rivera, Anna Nga Koks-Dinh, Anna Tungul, Dinna de los Reyes, Dexter Cinco, Joyce Britanico, Rab Cedric Menguito, RN, MD, Rosie Castel and Vanessa Bautista.
“Colorful Narratives” is not just an exhibition of art. It is a celebration of the power of color to illuminate, inspire, and tell stories that transcend language and culture.
Get ready for an exciting movie-filled Wednesday! As August heats up, so does the cinema lineup, WIth diverse range of fresh releases, there’s something for every moviegoer. From the action-packed “Borderlands” and the soul-stirring romance “It Ends with Us,” to the intense thriller “Project Silence,” the dramatic love triangle of “Unang Tikim,” and for those seeking inspiration, “When the World Met Miss Probinsyana” is a powerful story of empowerment. This week’s movies offer an unforgettable entertainment. Don’t forget to catch fan favorites still showing before they disappear from the big screen! Grab your movie squad, indulge in some buttery popcorn, and enjoy the latest hits.
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
If you’re in the mood for an action-packed journey through space, “Borderlands” might just be the ticket. Set on a distant planet, this film follows the return of an infamous outlaw, played by the ever-talented Cate Blanchett. She’s joined by Kevin Hart and Jack Black, who bring their unique energy to this high-stakes adventure.
The story revolves around an unlikely group of heroes who team up to find a missing girl. But this isn’t just a rescue mission; the girl holds the key to a power that could change everything. Expect intense battles with alien monsters, run-ins with dangerous bandits, and a storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Based on the bestselling novel, “It Ends with Us” is a drama that delves deep into the complexities of love and relationships. Starring Blake Lively as Lily, the film tells the story of a woman who has overcome a difficult childhood and is now trying to build a new life.
When Lily meets a charming neurosurgeon, portrayed by Justin Baldoni, sparks fly, and a romance begins. But as the relationship progresses, she starts to notice troubling signs that remind her of her parents’ toxic relationship. This film offers a poignant exploration of love, pain, and the challenges that come with trying to break the cycle of the past.
For those who crave a thrill, “Project Silence” delivers with a gripping plot that combines action, suspense, and a touch of the unexpected. The film takes place on an Airport Bridge where deteriorating weather conditions have led to a series of catastrophic events. Visibility is near zero, and the risk of the bridge collapsing is high, leaving survivors in a perilous situation.
Amid the chaos, a group of military experiment canine subjects, known as “Echo,” break free. These genetically enhanced dogs become the ultimate predators, turning the already dire situation into a deadly game of survival. With a cast led by Lee Sun-kyun, Ju Ji-hoon, and Kim Hee-won, this film promises edge-of-your-seat excitement.
“Unang Tikim,” a drama that explores the complexities of love and self-discovery. The film centers around Yuna, who is engaged to her long-time boyfriend, Nicco. But when she crosses paths with her first love, Becca, she finds herself questioning everything.
Torn between the man she loves and the woman she first loved, Yuna faces an emotional dilemma that could change the course of her life. This film offers a fresh perspective on romance, exploring themes of identity, love, and the choices that define us.
2024 • PG • 2 hrs 35 mins DRAMA, FAMILY BUY TICKETS
This inspiring film follows Marge, a vibrant woman from the provinces who makes a name for herself in the competitive BPO industry. Returning to her roots, she aims to empower her community by setting up a BPO firm locally. Alongside her partner, Wil, Marge faces the challenges of entrepreneurship and societal norms, proving that determination and innovation can change lives.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:
2024 • PG • 1 hr 29 mins ACTION, ANIMATION, DRAMA GET SHOWTIMES
Enter the high-stakes world of the BLUE LOCK Project with Nagi Seishiro and a cast of the finest strikers from across the country. This animated feature takes you on a journey of ambition, skill, and intense competition as Nagi aims to become the best alongside his friend Mikage Reo. The movie’s stunning animation and dynamic action sequences promise to captivate fans of sports dramas and anime alike. Get ready to cheer for your favorite characters as they chase their dreams on the big screen.
What starts as an innocent outing quickly turns into a nightmare for a father and his teenage daughter attending a pop concert. Trap plunges you into a sinister event where survival instincts are tested. The intense atmosphere and unexpected twists will keep you on the edge of your seat as you navigate this dark and gripping thriller. Will they escape the danger that lurks, or will they fall victim to the trap set before them?
The merc with a mouth is back, and this time, he’s not alone! Wade Wilson, a.k.a. Deadpool, finds the monotony of civilian life disrupted when a new threat emerges. Teaming up with a gruff Wolverine, the duo is set for a series of misadventures filled with snark, action, and unexpected camaraderie. Expect a blend of relentless humor, thrilling fight sequences, and the kind of chemistry only Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman can deliver.
Imagine the most extreme weather events colliding in one epic showdown. “Twisters” brings together former storm chaser Kate Carter and thrill-seeking influencer Tyler Owens as they navigate through the deadliest storm season recorded. With lives and legacies at stake, the race against nature’s clock is nothing short of breathtaking. Will they outmaneuver the cataclysmic weather, or will the storms rewrite their fates?
2024 • PG • 1 hr 35 mins ACTION, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY GET SHOWTIMES
With such a vibrant mix of genres and stories, there’s every reason to head to the cinema this week. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling mystery, a laugh-out-loud comedy, or a romantic escape, these new releases offer captivating experiences for all tastes. So don’t miss out—grab your popcorn, pick your plot, round up your crew, and head to your nearest cinema to catch these must-watch films in action.
Prime Video is set to release its latest action-comedy sensation, JACKPOT!, on August 15, 2024. Directed by the acclaimed Paul Feig, this film delivers a rollercoaster of laughs and thrills with a unique twist on the classic lottery theme: in this high-stakes game, the real challenge is surviving until sundown.
Watch the Trailer Now!
The newly released trailer for JACKPOT! gives audiences a sneak peek into the chaotic and comedic adventure that awaits. Filled with fast-paced action, hilarious encounters, and unexpected twists, the trailer sets the stage for what promises to be one of the most entertaining films of the year.
Plot and Star-Studded Cast
JACKPOT! centers on Katie Kim, played by the hilarious Awkwafina, who accidentally stumbles upon a winning lottery ticket worth billions. However, there’s a deadly catch: the prize can only be claimed if the winner survives until sundown. In her bid to outlast the competition, Katie teams up with Noel Cassidy, an amateur lottery protection agent portrayed by John Cena, promising him a share of her winnings. Their unlikely alliance faces numerous challenges, especially from Noel’s cunning adversary Louis Lewis, played by Simu Liu, who is determined to get his hands on the jackpot by any means necessary.
Paul Feig’s masterful direction ensures that JACKPOT! is not just an action-packed thrill ride but also a comedic gem. Awkwafina and John Cena bring to life a hilarious duo that audiences will undoubtedly fall in love with, blending humor and action seamlessly.
Behind the Scenes
Produced by industry heavyweights Joe Roth, Jeff Kirschenbaum, p.g.a., Paul Feig, p.g.a., and Laura Fischer, p.g.a., with executive producers including John Cena and Michelle Morrissey, JACKPOT! promises a cinematic experience packed with laughter and adrenaline. The creative team’s dedication to bringing a fresh and entertaining story to the screen is evident in every scene.
Mark your calendars for August 15, 2024, and prepare for a thrilling journey with JACKPOT! exclusively on Prime Video. Get ready to laugh, gasp, and cheer as Awkwafina and John Cena navigate the wild world of a Grand Lottery like you’ve never seen before. This film is sure to be a hit, delivering a perfect blend of comedy and action that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
I love and hate arthouse movies. I love them because, at their best, they really make you think, and they stay with you for a very long time; your mind comes back to them every now and then as you see vestiges of their truth in your own life every now and then. I remember films like ‘Under the Skin’ by Jonathan Glazer, ‘Upstream Color’ by Shane Caruth, Whammy Alcazaren’s ‘Islands,’ and Timmy Harn’s ‘Dog Days.’ I hate arthouse films because they really try my patience; by deviating heavily from the principles of traditional narratives, the stories of these movies meander aimlessly, implying maybe a thread of a larger tapestry but not really getting there until the end, if at all.
And Dominic Bekaert’s ‘An Errand’ is just such a film. At 83 minutes, the film is shorter than most full-length features these days, but the movie’s narrative sprawls out at a slow pace, much like the protagonist’s eponymous errand to fetch an expensive branded shirt and a can of pills from Manila to bring to his shady boss in Baguio. Moroy (Sid Lucero) is the driver to Art Acuna’s lawyer, an unnamed, hot-tempered man who is having an affair with a younger woman (Elora Espano). ‘An Errand’ zooms in on the tiny world of Moroy as he must deal being in an enclosed space (the lawyer’s car) with his boss and his mistress. When he’s with them, he hears their interactions, must live with it in his head, or if the lawyer is working, he picks up whatever bits and traces of it he (and us, as the audience) can piece together.
In-between, Moroy is hanging out at the driver’s waiting lounge, where he listens to the stories of other drivers and bodyguards, including the urban legend of Rex (Eric Kelly), a driver who makes a harsh realisation of his own boss, as told by Ben (Nanding Josef), a senior driver of an old woman, who seems to gamble a lot and has a lot of court cases.
All of these characters orbit around each other and create a dazzling tale of a world that may or may not be dark and sinister. Bekaert keeps his point-of-view small, only from within the purview of Moroy and Moroy hardly crosses the line. To amplify this, Bekaert keeps his framing tight and cluttered. He either composes each shot with Moroy and the other characters trapped within a confined space (a car, the driver’s waiting lounge) and when he does expand the view, he leaves very little space for the characters to move around (like in one scene when Moroy delivers a bag to the lawyer, he has to walk around a swimming pool that occupies 80% of the frame). This excellent use of mis-en-scene, coupled with Michael Benedicto’s musical score underlines the film’s eerie meditation of the lives of people on the periphery of power.
There are set ups here for classic tropes – does the driver make a move for the mistress, does the driver turn to the police with what little he knows, is the driver an undercover cop or a man with an axe to grind – but the film never turns there. It plays with our understanding of this dramatic situation, of these characters, of our imagined understanding of this milieu and shakes us up.
Because as much as we’d like to put meaning behind the mistress’ gift of a branded Mona Lisa shirt to her lawyer boyfriend, as much as we want to believe that Moroy’s errand back to Manila – the very cause of this seemingly abrupt existential crisis – nothing really does, as arthouse films often do.
There’s no catharsis here; no sudden revelations; no grand epiphany about the nature of this sick and twisted world. The audience’s desire for something to happen might be the point to the exercise. And the moment the legend somehow merges with the mundane world of Moroy, it does not give us the ending we are craving for, but it allows our imaginations to spark and dream for change.
And for an arthouse film, this is just what it is supposed to do. It’s exactly the kind of film I was hoping to see in Cinemalaya.
My Rating:
An Errand is now showing! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.
Hey friends! Ready to ditch the daily grind and dive into an experience that’ll totally boost your mood? Swing by the Del Monte Fruity Zing Tunnel at the Hydro Manila Music Festival on August 24, 2024 to escape the daily grind and get an instant mood-lifter with loads of freebies and fun activities.
This will be staged after the successful run at C1 Park, Bonifacio High Street Central (right in front of Shake Shack) last August 2-4.
The Del Monte Fruity Zing Tunnel is the ultimate escape from life’s little annoyances—whether it’s being ghosted by your crush, dealing with office drama, or facing that cringe-worthy credit card bill.
Here’s What’s Poppin’ Inside the Tunnel:
Refresh-Zing Area: Kick off with FREE ice-cold samples of Fruity Zing’s bomb Apple-Lychee and Calamansi-Lemon flavors. Perfect for a sweet pick-me-up or a zesty burst!
Zing Zone: Dive into epic games and interactive experiences that’ll lift your vibe. Show off your zest at the Just Zing corner—say “Ziiiing” in 25 seconds and win free Fruity Zing bottles! Plus, flex those memory skills at the MemoriZing activity to score more Fruity Zing freebies!
Gen Zing Photo Booth: Capture your refreshed and ZING-ed self with a free printed photo and share your Zing-tastic moments!
Cool Vibes: Chill out with strategically placed fans and misters keeping things cool and comfy while you explore.
Fruity Zing: Not just a drink, it’s your go-to mood booster! With real fruit juices and only PHP 25 SRP, enjoy the epic Apple-Lychee and Calamansi-Lemon flavors that keep you fresh and motivated to crush your goals.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience! Share your adventure on social media with #FruityZing and #ExperienZINGnow to spread the good vibes. If you can’t make it, catch!
Find the Del Monte Fruity Zing at nearby convenience stores and supermarkets! No time to shop? No problem—grab it online on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop! Ditch the boring and level up your vibe with Del Monte Fruity Zing!
The Department of Tourism (DOT) marked a significant advancement for Bicol’s tourism sector with the groundbreaking and signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the region’s inaugural Tourist Rest Area (TRA), led by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Tabaco City Mayor Cielo Krisel Lagman.
This was the first TRA in the Philippines to receive the modifications of the flagshiptourist facility being constructed by the DOT, through the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) across strategic locations, with features of solar panel roofing, a rainwater harvesting system, among other eco-friendly features.
The ceremonies took place on Wednesday (July 31) at the picturesque Hiraya Manawari Nature Park, which boasts stunning views of the iconic Mayon Volcano.
This pioneering TRA in the region will serve as a comprehensive service center, providing an array of amenities designed to ensure visitor comfort and convenience. Key features will include clean restrooms, charging stations, a relaxing lounge, a lactation room, and an information hub. The facility will also cater to the needs of differently abled individuals and senior citizens, promoting accessibility for all.
Commitment to Sustainability
Secretary Frasco emphasized that the establishment of the TRA reflects the Department’s dedication to enhancing the tourist experience while prioritizing sustainability.
“Tabaco City is a symbol of sustainable tourism, in line with the National Tourism Development Plan which underscores the importance of preserving our destinations and empowering local communities through tourism,” she stated.
“Tabaco City represents sustainable tourism, which very well resonates with the National Tourism Development Plan of the national government, kung saan binibigyan po natin ng kahalagahan ‘yong preservation ng ating mga destinations, and of course, binibigyan natin ang ating mga komunidad ng opportunities para naman po mag improve ‘yong kanilang buhay sa pamamagitan ng turismo,” the tourism chief shared.
Apart from the enhanced interiors, the TRA incorporates modified sustainable features like the rainwater harvesting system, which is fitting to Bicol region, one of the country’s regions that receives a high amount of rainfall due to its geographical location and other factors.
The TRA is part of a broader national strategy led by the Marcos administration to bolster tourism infrastructure and enhance visitor convenience throughout the Philippines.
“We are hopeful that the presence of the Tourist Rest Area will enhance the vibrancy of your city and the already successful tourism programs led by your mayor. We find that through tourism, communities are transformed, lives are uplifted, and love of country is engendered in each and every single Filipino,” the tourism chief added.
The TRA in Tabaco City marks the second facility to be broken ground this year, with plans to put up at over 20 additional locations funded by TIEZA.
The location, Hiraya Manawari Nature Park, also exemplifies Tabaco City’s commitment to environmental conservation, with many of its structures constructed from upcycled materials.
Partnership for a Sustainable Tourist Rest Area
Alongside the groundbreaking, the DOT and the City Government of Tabaco formalized their partnership through the signing of a MOA for the TRA’s construction.
Fully funded by the DOT through TIEZA, the TRA will be managed and operated by the City Government of Tabaco.
The MOA was signed by Secretary Frasco, Mayor Lagman, and TIEZA OIC Assistant Chief Operating Officer Jeoffrey Macalalad, with Albay Vice Governor Glenda Ong Bongao, and DOT Regional Office V Director Herbie Aguas as witnesses.
The DOT has also devised guidelines for the TRA’s maintenance and operation, offering incentives to LGUs that meet the outlined standards. These incentives may include support for additional infrastructure projects or financial rewards.
A scale model of the TRA, featuring its distinctive flat roof and clean lines, was presented by Secretary Frasco and to Mayor Lagman and Vice Mayor Bongao.
Recently, the TRA project was honored as the Infrastructure Project of the Year in the Tourism category at the esteemed GovMedia Conference and Awards 2024 held in Singapore.
Get ready for a whirlwind of emotions as Colleen Hoover’s #1 New York Times bestselling novel, It Ends With Us, comes to life on the big screen. This captivating story follows Lily Bloom’s journey to a new life in the bustling city of Boston, where she encounters opportunities for love and self-discovery.
The Charismatic Ryle Kincaid
Enter Ryle Kincaid, a charismatic neurosurgeon who immediately captivates Lily. Actor Justin Baldoni, renowned for his role as Rafael Solano in Jane the Virgin, takes on the challenge of portraying Ryle while also directing the film. Interestingly, it was Hoover herself who suggested Baldoni for the role.
“Ryle may not be exactly what viewers expect,” Baldoni explains. “I wanted to portray him as a complex, smart man who has never dealt with old traumas. There is absolutely no excuse for what he does in the film. We wanted to show an example of a complex and seemingly impossible situation that so many people live through. Showing that there may be real love while not running away from that fact that there is also real harm.”
The Return of Atlas Corrigan
As Lily and Ryle’s relationship unfolds, her childhood sweetheart, Atlas Corrigan, reenters her life. Brandon Sklenar, who plays Atlas, describes him as the antithesis of Ryle. “Atlas and Ryle are polar opposites,” Sklenar notes. “Ryle has a manipulative, toxic presence. Atlas is strong and sturdy, an example of what masculinity can be in a calm, present, and open way. Unlike Ryle, he has no need for validation. When he’s with Lily, he’s just purely there for her.”
A Tale of Contrast and Growth
Hoover highlights the contrast between these two pivotal characters and praises Sklenar’s portrayal of Atlas. “Atlas is who Ryle wishes he could be: someone who doesn’t blame his past for his present,” Hoover shares. “Atlas has learned and grown from his hardships, rather than shrinking because of them. I needed to see an openness and tenderness in Atlas that we wish wasn’t missing in Ryle, and Brandon portrays that beautifully.”
Adapting the Novel for the Screen
Baldoni and the team took creative liberties with the adaptation, with the blessing of Hoover’s fans, to gradually unveil the abusive nature of Lily and Ryle’s relationship. “We decided to bring that realization out slowly, like a recovered memory,” Baldoni explains, ensuring a powerful and impactful narrative experience.
It Ends With Us is a poignant tale of resilience, love, and self-discovery. It follows Lily Bloom (Blake Lively) as she rises above a traumatic childhood to start anew in Boston and pursue her dream of opening a business. Her chance meeting with charming neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni) leads to an intense connection, but as the layers of their relationship unfold, Lily begins to recognize patterns reminiscent of her parents’ tumultuous relationship. When her first love, Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar), reappears, Lily is faced with an impossible choice that tests her strength and resilience.
Distributed by Columbia Pictures, a local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, It Ends With Us hits cinemas in the Philippines on August 7. Join the conversation and connect with the film using the hashtag #ItEndsWithUsMovie on social media @columbiapicph.
