Sometimes, the most gripping stories aren’t fiction. They’re found in real-life dramas made even more terrifying because they can happen to anyone—including you. Lionsgate Play’s collection of films based on true events all unfold with a heart-pounding intensity. From catastrophic disasters to political intrigue, these films capture the raw intensity of human experience. Prepare to be captivated by these real-life thrillers that prove truth is often stranger—and more terrifying—than fiction.
Deepwater Horizon is a gripping dramatization of the catastrophic 2010 oil rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico. Directed by Peter Berg, the film follows the harrowing ordeal of chief electronics technician Mike Williams (Mark Wahlberg) as he and his team fight for survival amidst the inferno. The film offers a tense and dramatic portrayal of the disaster, highlighting the courage of those who risked their lives to escape the burning rig.
What was supposed to be the Belon family’s idyllic Christmas holiday at a Thailand resort is abruptly shattered by the catastrophic 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. As the powerful waves sweep everything in sight, the family is torn apart, left to survive amidst the chaos. Their desperate struggle to reunite is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Starring Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, and Tom Holland, The Impossible offers a raw and emotional portrayal of the Belon family’s experience.
Hotel Mumbai is a dramatic retelling of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The film recreates the horrific siege of the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, where terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba group held hostages. Against this backdrop of chaos, hotel waiter Arjun (Dev Patel) emerges as a hero, risking his life to protect terrified guests, including a British couple and their child.
7 Days in Entebbe is a gripping thriller recounting the dramatic 1976 hijacking of an Air France flight. Diverted to Entebbe, Uganda. The aircraft becomes a hostage crisis when four terrorists, including Germans Brigitte Kuhlmann (Rosamund Pike) and Wilfried Böse (Daniel Bruhl), seize control, demanding the release of imprisoned militants. As a tense standoff unfolds, the Israeli government orchestrates a daring rescue mission to liberate the passengers from the hijackers’ clutches.
Fair Game (2010)
The dramatic political thriller Fair Game is based on the true story of undercover CIA operative Valerie Palme (Naomi Watts). The film follows the fallout after her husband, Joseph Wilson (Sean Penn), publicly criticized the Bush administration’s claims about Iraq. To discredit Wilson, Palme’s identity was exposed by a politically motivated press leak, shattering her career and jeopardizing her family’s safety.
In the mood for more dramatic thrillers to binge? Check out more titles on Lionsgate Play!
You don’t need to see the six films in the ‘Alien’ franchise to understand the story but ‘Alien: Romulus’ takes its time to pay tribute to the first four films in the franchise that a quick watch of those films would be a pleasant treat before catching this installment. Directed and written by Fede Alvarez and co-written with Rodo Sayagues, ‘Alien: Romulus’ is a classic creature feature that takes its time to set up the dramatic situation before it starts delivering on its promise of thrills and spills. It makes full use of its science fiction and horror genre to deliver a story that still manages to stay true to the essence of the franchise’s underlying message that capitalism, in the form of the megacorporation known as Weyland-Yutani Corp, is still our biggest threat, even in the face of one of the most terrifying creatures ever created on fiction.
The film follows the story of Rain, played by the versatile Cailee Spaeny, who has transformed after such breakout performance in ‘Civil War’ and ‘Priscilla.’ Rain is trapped in a mining colony, trying to finish off her contract with the corporation so that she can leave and move to a planet where she can actually see the sun. The mining colony is an unforgiving place that has taken the lives of her parents, and she now lives with her “brother,” the busted synthetic Andy, played excellently by David Jonsson. When she discovers that her contract has been extended, she decides to take an offer by an old friend, Tyler (Archie Renaux) to fly to space to hijack an abandoned ship floating in orbit around the planet. The ship contains cryogenic sleep pods that will allow Tyler, Rain, and the rest of their crew to make it to a more hospitable planet several lightyears away.
Everything goes according to plan until they discover that the ship is not just a ship but a space station and that something very bad happened inside leaving the whole crew dead. As they reboot and repower the space station, a vessel so big its partitioned into two areas and called Romulus and Remus, they end up waking the alien lifeforms that the ship has been carrying all this time.
Alvarez takes his time to let us get to know the characters: to imply the possibility that Rain and Tyler may have had a relationship before; the reason why Bjorn (Spike Fearn), one of Tyler’s crew, hates synthetics and treats Andy badly; that Tyler’s sister, Kay (Isabela Merced), has a secret of her own; and the nature of the bond between Rain and Andy and why she calls him her brother.
In fact, it is Rain and Andy’s relationship that serves as the heart and soul of the film. The moment the xenomorphs are awakened and are out for the kill, the story becomes one big chase sequence, the crew just trying to survive but what keeps it from becoming just shlock is that Rain and Andy’s relationship turns complex as realizations are discovered in the attempts to survive. This becomes the emotional core of the film and by questioning the humanity of an AI and our ability to empathize with it adds another dimension to the film and widens the scope of the film’s genre.
On the horror side of things, Alvarez knows exactly how to set up a scene, how to use his framing to create tension and fear. He pays wonderful tribute to Ridley Scott’s mise-en-scene in ‘Alien’ with the way he sets up his horror sequences while taking cues from James Cameron’s ‘Aliens’ when the film goes full-on action mode. From David Fincher in ‘Alien 3,’ he manages to adopt the sense of claustrophobia in the setting and the weirdness of Jean-Pierre Jeunet of ‘Alien: Resurrection.’
While managing to pay homage to the films prior, Alvarez goes a little crazy in the last twenty minutes of the film, throwing in the kitchen sink and creating dramatic situations that are so big that they feel somewhat ludicrous already but the steady build up to this was so well-paced that it feels earned. The fact that it gets weird, much like Jeunet’s installment in the franchise, bordering on campy, feels right and not out of place.
‘Alien: Romulus’ is an enjoyable addition to the franchise that truly respects and honors the idea of the xenomorph while staying true to its goal to question the ways by which capitalism, in the form of mega corporations, would choose technology and profit over human lives. That is still embedded in the DNA of this film and I’m all for it. If this film manages to get people to watch the older films in the process, then that’s the added bonus. As a sci-fi horror film, ‘Alien: Romulus’ does the job and then some.
Get ready, Marvel fans! The wait is almost over as the thrilling origin story of one of Marvel’s most fearsome villains, Kraven the Hunter, is set to hit Philippine cinemas on December 11. Featuring the magnetic Aaron Taylor-Johnson in the titular role, this film promises to be a roller-coaster of action, revenge, and raw power.
Kraven the Hunter is an intense and electrifying dive into the dark origins of Marvel’s iconic villain. The film uncovers the gripping story of Sergei Kravinoff, better known as Kraven, portrayed by the charismatic Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Kraven’s journey is deeply intertwined with his complex and tumultuous relationship with his father, Nikolai Kravinoff, played by the legendary Russell Crowe. This strained father-son dynamic sets Sergei on a brutal path of vengeance, driving him to become the greatest hunter the world has ever seen—and one of its most terrifying adversaries.
Directed by J.C. Chandor and brought to life with a compelling screenplay by Richard Wenk, Art Marcum, and Matt Holloway, Kraven the Hunter is a cinematic experience that you won’t want to miss. The story delves deep into Kraven’s psyche, offering a visceral look at what it takes to become a legend in the shadowy world of Marvel’s villains.
A Star-Studded Cast
In addition to Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s powerful performance, the film boasts an incredible ensemble cast. Ariana DeBose, Fred Hechinger, Alessandro Nivola, Christopher Abbott, and Russell Crowe bring their talents to the screen, creating a dynamic and unforgettable narrative that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
Mark Your Calendars
Kraven the Hunter roars into Philippine cinemas on December 11, distributed by Columbia Pictures, the local arm of Sony Pictures Releasing International. This is one movie event you won’t want to miss—join the conversation online using the hashtag #KravenTheHunter.
The highly anticipated action-comedy The Roundup: Punishment brings back fan-favorite K-actors led by the charismatic Don Lee (Ma Dong-seok). This latest installment, distributed by Black Cap Pictures, promises to be a rollercoaster of adrenaline-fueled action and dark humor.
A New Criminal Empire
Set three years after the intense synthetic drug case in Korea, the relentless beast cop Ma Seok-do (Don Lee) and his Metro Investigations team are back, this time hunting down criminals using a delivery app for drug deals. The investigation takes a shocking turn when the app distributor is found dead overseas, uncovering a sinister web of illegal online gambling.
The mastermind behind this operation is none other than Baek Chang-gi, portrayed by the versatile Kim Moo-yul. A former special forces mercenary, Baek has taken control of Korea’s illegal online gambling scene from his base in the Philippines. Known for his brutal methods—including abduction, confinement, and murder—Baek is set to be the most formidable villain in The Roundup series.
Unveiling the Villains
Kim Moo-yul’s performance as Baek Chang-gi has already garnered praise, with many calling him the most dangerous adversary Ma Seok-do has ever faced. Don Lee himself couldn’t imagine anyone else embodying the role, praising Kim for his perfect blend of action, acting, and intimidating presence.
Another standout character in the film is IT genius Chang Dong-cheol, played by Lee Dong-hwi, widely recognized for his role in Reply 1998. As the CEO of QM Holdings, Chang Dong-cheol is hatching even bigger plans, making him a key player in this high-stakes game.
The Return of Beloved Characters
Fans of the series will be thrilled to see the return of Park Ji-hwan as the beloved Jang I-su. First introduced in The Outlaws (2017) and later reappearing in The Roundup (2022), Jang I-su is known for his unique charm and comic relief, making him an irreplaceable part of the team. In The Roundup: Punishment, Jang I-su steps up as one of the main leads, continuing his crime-fighting partnership with Ma Seok-do.
New Faces, New Team
Joining the fray are fresh faces from the Cyber Investigations unit, adding a new dimension to the story. Actress Lee Joo-bin (Queen of Tears) takes on the role of Han Ji-su, while actor Kim Shin-bi (Flex X Cop) plays Gang Nam-su. Together, they bring a burst of energy to the team as they assist Ma Seok-do in dismantling the criminal empire operating across Korea and the Philippines.
The Roundup: Punishment is now showing exclusively at SM Cinemas, with specially priced tickets at Php 275 in Metro Manila and Php 230 in provinces. Don’t miss this explosive action-comedy that’s bound to keep you on the edge of your seat!
Global apparel retailer UNIQLO today announces the launch of a new UT (UNIQLO T-shirt) collection commemorating the KAWS + Warhol exhibition currently on view at The Andy Warhol Museum in the United States, which will also tour internationally. Items will be available at UNIQLO stores worldwide and via the uniqlo.com online store from Friday, August 23rd.
UNIQLO presents a new unique collaboration between Andy Warhol (1928-1987), a seminal figure in 20th-century art, and KAWS, a leading artist in contemporary art. Combining iconography from both artist’s well-known bodies of work, the collection gives everyone an opportunity to feel close to their art. An art book for the KAWS + Warhol exhibition will also be available exclusively at UNIQLO stores and through uniqlo.com in advance of the publisher’s general release.
Capsule collection from sweats to jackets
The KAWS + Warhol UT Collection, available in full exclusively at UNIQLO*, was made in collaboration with The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, which has for many years continued Warhol’s legacy by presenting art to the world through commercial products created with UNIQLO. The wide range of designs feature KAWS’s popular characters together with Warhol’s famous imagery. Along with T-shirts, the capsule collection includes sweatshirts, coach jackets, socks, tote bags, and a kids’ lineup. All customers, from adults to children, can enjoy the worlds of KAWS and Andy Warhol. * Some items from the collection will also be available for purchase at the exhibition.
Art book global pre-release
An art book for The KAWS + Warhol exhibition will be available exclusively at UNIQLO stores nationwide and the UNIQLO online store in advance of the publisher’s general release. This new book showcases the art of KAWS and Andy Warhol side-by-side, drawing comparisons and new meanings between two of the most popular artists of the modern era in a way that has never been done before. The substantial content includes an interview with KAWS, essays by art historians and curators, and installation views from the exhibition*. Customers who purchase the book from UNIQLO will also receive a limited edition shoulder bag as a gift. UNIQLO will also conduct a social media campaign that gives customers the chance to win a copy of the art book autographed by KAWS. Furthermore, a huge display of KAWS’s “COMPANION” and reproductions of Warhol artwork featured in the apparel collection will be featured at UNIQLO stores around the world. In the Philippines, special displays will be installed in the UNIQLO Manila Flagship Store in Glorietta 5, and in UNIQLO SM Mall of Asia. * The art book can be purchased through the website of the publisher (Phaidon Press) from August 23 (Friday), but won’t be shipped until the end of September.
KAWS
KAWS engages audiences beyond the museums and galleries in which he regularly exhibits. Over the last two decades, KAWS has built a successful career with work that consistently shows his formal agility as an artist, as well as his underlying wit, irreverence, and affection for our times. He has collaborated extensively with UNIQLO, including by providing designs for the PEACE FOR ALL charity project in 2022, which have been hugely successful worldwide.
The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc.
As the preeminent American artist of the 20th century, Andy Warhol challenged the world to see art differently. Since its founding in 1987, in accordance with Warhol’s will, The Andy Warhol Foundation has established itself among the leading funders of contemporary art in the United States. The Foundation has distributed nearly $300 million in cash grants which support the creation, presentation and documentation of contemporary visual arts, particularly work that is experimental, under-recognized or challenging in nature. The Foundation’s ongoing efforts to protect and enhance its founder’s creative legacy ensure that Warhol’s inventive, open-minded spirit will have a profound impact on the visual arts for generations to come. Proceeds the Foundation receives from licensing projects such as this contribute to the Foundation’s endowment from which these grants are distributed. www.warholfoundation.org.
Uptown Bonifacio welcomes pets of all shapes and sizes in a tail-wagging, purr-fectly delightful “Petstival” celebration from August 15 to 18. This paw-some event is designed to bring together pet lovers, families, and furry companions for a day filled with shopping finds, pet activities, seminars, and a pet adoption event.
Discover a treasure trove of pet products and essentials at the Furry Finds Market from August 15 to 18. Visit a lineup of merchants showcasing the latest in pet fashion, food, and accessories at the Upper Ground Floor, near H&M.
Enhance pet parenting skills with educational workshops and seminars at Pawsitive Insights from August 15 to 16, at the Upper Ground Floor Atrium. Insights will be shared by experts from Animal Wellness Veterinary Hospital and Clinics. To join, you may register on this link: http://bit.ly/Pet-Talk
Looking to expand your family? Visit the Paws and Pals adoption area to meet adorable pets in need of a loving home. In partnership with Biyaya Animal Care, Paws and Pals will take place at the Upper Ground Floor Atrium from August 17 to 18.
Mark the fun ‘Petstival’ day capturing unforgettable moments at the Picture Pawfect photo booth. Find them at the Upper Ground Floor from August 15 to 18.
Petstival at Uptown Bonifacio promises a heartwarming and entertaining experience for participants. Join and celebrate your love for furry friends and connect with a community of fellow pet enthusiasts.
Uptown Bonifacio is Megaworld Lifestyle Malls’ flagship property in Taguig City, offering an expansive range of premium dining, retail, and entertainment options in a dynamic environment. Situated amidst the bustling cityscape, Uptown Bonifacio is a haven for urbanites seeking unforgettable experiences in the heart of Metro Manila.
For more updates on the latest happenings, visit megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call their hotline at (63 2) 8-462-8888 or follow their social media accounts on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/megaworldlifestylemalls), Instagram (@MegaworldLifestyleMalls), and TikTok (@megaworldlifestylemalls).
Four Points by Sheraton Boracay proudly celebrated its grand launch on August 3, 2024, bringing the time-honored Four Points brand to the island. The event, held at the hotel located in upscale Station 1, just steps away from the iconic White Beach, marked the official opening of the first and only Marriott hotel in Boracay.
The grand launch was attended by an array of distinguished guests and key figures in the hospitality and tourism industries. Among the esteemed attendees were the Governor of Aklan, Hon. Jose Enrique Miraflores; Vice Mayor of Municipality of Malay, Hon. Niño Carlos Cawaling; Marriott Philippines Multi-Property Vice PresidentBruce Winton; Marriott Regional Vice President for Japan, Philippines, and South Korea, Peter Gassner; Country Representative of Marriott International for Hotel DevelopmentKevin Iranzo; Marriott Senior Communication Manager – South Korea and Philippines Erin Soyeon Lim; All Link Hotel and Resorts Group Limited Inc. Chairman David Chi, Mr. Fermin Romualdez, and members of the owning company George Wei and Eric Hui. The event was also graced by Regional Director Crisanta Marlene P. Rodriguez of the Department of Tourism-Region VI.
Hosted by the hotel’s Marketing Manager, Stephanie Cabrejas, the celebration commenced with opening remarks by Charley Magabo, General Manager of Four Points by Sheraton Boracay. He expressed his excitement and gratitude for the tremendous support from the community and stakeholders. Highlighting the Four Points brand, Magabo detailed the series of activities organized to mark the weekend-long celebration. The festivities began with an Associate Parade and Motorcade on August 1, followed by a Marriott Bonvoy kiosk display at Boracay City Mall on August 2. A 3-day media familiarization tour for local and Korean media partners took place from August 2 to 4. The culmination of the celebrations was the Grand Launch Ceremony, a showcase of culinary and cultural experiences that officially inaugurated Four Points by Sheraton Boracay. Following the General Manager’s address, the ribbon-cutting ceremony symbolically opened the doors of the hotel, marking a new chapter for Boracay’s tourism landscape.
The festivities continued with a welcome soiree at the poolside, where guests enjoyed refreshing cocktails and sumptuous canapés while being entertained by a vibrant percussion showcase by Etniko Boracay Drum Beaters. The celebration then transitioned to the Evolution Annex, where guests indulged in a bountiful celebratory brunch feast.
Mr. Bruce Winton highlighted in his welcome speech, “It gives me great pleasure, on behalf of Marriott International, to be here to celebrate the opening of our 10th operating property in the Philippines. We are extremely excited to finally be on the world-famous island of Boracay. As Peter Gassner in development stated, we have been trying for a very long time to be a part of this world-class tourist destination and really sparkle for the Philippines.” He continued, “We are happy to see the success of rehabilitation and the ongoing progress that continue to elevate the destination of Boracay.” He further emphasized the importance of Marriott Bonvoy in driving this growth with its membership of over 204 million members globally. “If we can just bring a percentage of over 200 million loyal Marriott Bonvoy members to the shores of Boracay, then this is a success story in the making.” In his speech, Hon. Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores emphasized the significance of the hotel’s opening in promoting tourism and boosting the local economy. “It is (an) event that I could not miss since this is one brand that we (really) need here in the island of Boracay. So I would like to thankMarriott International and Four Points by Sheraton. We need this kind of hotel and this kind of brand to continue the magic of the island.” He continued, “Last year, I am very happy that the province of Aklan was named as the number 1 fastest growing economy in the entire Philippines, and that is mainly because of the tourism activity of Boracay. With this new hotel and with Marriott International finally here on the island, we can definitely sustain and continue the development and growth of the economy of Boracay and the whole province of Aklan,” Miraflores said.
The event concluded with a symbolic toast joined by Marriott representatives, local government officials, and the hotel’s owners and stakeholders, symbolizing the beginning of an exciting journey for Four Points by Sheraton Boracay. Guests were invited to enjoy a delicious brunch prepared by the hotel’s culinary team while being entertained by vibrant Ati-Atihan cultural display and colorful LED dance performances.
As the newest addition to Marriott International’s portfolio, Four Points by Sheraton Boracay is poised to become the premier lifestyle hotel on the island of Boracay, offering guests a personalized destination experience. With its timeless elegance and commitment to service excellence, the hotel promises to deliver uncomplicated comfort and an authentic stay for all who visit.
Miss Universe Philippines 2024 and PLDT Home Ambassador Chelsea Manalo talks about staying connected with her loved ones and being her best self in Metro.Style’s latest digital cover story.
Chelsea impressed the whole nation with her performance in Miss Universe Philippines’ swimwear and eveningwear segments. But it was her Q&A about overcoming restrictive beauty standards that captured the hearts of Filipinos and ultimately secured her the win.
Speaking to Metro.Style, Chelsea candidly talks about being away from her family in Bulacan, especially now that her Miss Universe journey is running at full speed. A lesson that she learned from her Miss Universe Philippines stint is the importance of maintaining connections with loved ones.
“(I always) value the time with the people who are really close to my heart,” she tells Metro.Style. When away from home, Chelsea makes sure to keep in touch with loved ones via landline, mobile, or the internet with reliable connection powered by PLDT Home. The new PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plan 1399 with speeds of up to 100 Mbps and unlimited landline and mobile calls covering 5 Smart/TNT numbers in the family allows her to go all out with stories and updates for her loved ones – providing her no limits as she inches closer to her dream.
During her Q&A at Miss Universe Philippines 2024 most especially, Chelsea mentioned her mom to be instrumental in building her self-confidence – with constant reminders to believe in herself. Being the first Filipina of African descent to represent the Philippines, Chelsea not only aims to bring representation and diversity to the international pageant, but also to inspire women as her mom did.
Chelsea shows that staying connected with people who lift you up will bring out your best self. It’s also proof that your best self starts at home – with family and friends who have always been there since the beginning. Now, it’s her turn to use this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to empower women not just in the Philippines but from around the world.
Read Metro.Style’s cover story on Chelsea Manalo here. Know more on who have always been there for her through her journey — and how she relies on PLDT Home to connect with her loved ones, fulfill her advocacies, and ultimately conquer her dreams here:
Just like Miss Universe Philippines 2024 and PLDT Home Ambassador Chelsea Manalo, you too can be your best self at home by subscribing to PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plan 1399, designed to give customers the best value for their money. Go super charged as you enjoy unlimited Fiber connection with speeds of up to 100Mbps, unlimited entertainment with Cignal, and unlimited calls to Smart/TNT all in one plan!
Never miss a connection with your friends and family. To know more about the PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plan 1399, visit pldthome.com/fiber for more details.
Good news to all the Wi Ha Jun fans! This is your chance to experience the exciting and jam-packed fan benefits for the upcoming “WI HA JUN 2024 FAN MEETING TOUR <A Wively Day> in MANILA” on September 15, 2024, at the New Frontier Theater. For the upgraded perks, all ticket holders are entitled to a group photo session. Additional perks also include an on-site fan signing event and a one-on-one photoshoot for VIP ticket holders.
Aside from the added perks, all ticket holders are eligible for a hi-touch session and will also receive photocards. Lucky fans will also get a chance to have signed posters and signed polaroids. This variety of perks offers a great opportunity for fans to interact with Wi Ha Jun and support him in a fun and memorable way.
Wi Ha Jun is a talented and charismatic South Korean actor who has captured the hearts of audiences around the world with his charming smile and exceptional acting skills. He is also known for his role as Hwang Jun-ho in the most-watched Netflix series, Squid Game, and he also starred in the films Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum, Shark: The Beginning and Midnight, as well as the television series Something in the Rain, Romance Is a Bonus Book, 18 Again, Little Women, Worst of Evil with Ji Chang Wook, and Gyeongseong Creature with Park Seo Joon and Han Soo Hee. Currently, he leads the series “The Midnight Romance in Hagwon.”
His solo fan meeting tour, “A Wively Day,” will also take place in Seoul, Tokyo, Osaka, and Jakarta. His Manila show is presented by Ovation Productions and Applewood. Tickets are available at ticketnet.com at the following ticket prices: 10,500 (VIP) / 8,500 (Patron 1) / 6,500 (Patron 2) / and 4,500 (Loge).
