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Mula sa Buwan Soars Back to the Stage with a Stellar 2024 Cast!

The award-winning Filipino musical Mula sa Buwan is returning to the stage for a limited run this August, and it’s bringing back some of the most beloved actors and actresses from its 2022 run alongside some exciting new faces! Brought to life by Barefoot Theatre Collaborative, this production made its mark in 2022, emerging bravely from the shadows of the pandemic. Now, amidst a bustling theater scene, Mula sa Buwan returns with renewed vigor.

Familiar Faces and Fresh Talent

Get ready to see the original dream team of Myke Salomon, Gab Pangilinan, and MC Dela Cruz reprise their roles as Cyrano, Roxane, and Christian, respectively. They’ll be joined by returning cast members Phi Palmos (Rosanna), Jillian Ita-as (Gabriel), and the squad of beloved cadets: Rapah Manalo (Rosario), Khalil Tambio (Limon), Jep Go (Gimo), and Ericka Peralejo (Carissa).

The 2024 production also welcomes new stars to the Mula sa Buwan family. Watch out for Jerom Canlas (Tato), Omar Uddin (Maestro), and Brian Sy (Maximo) as they bring their own magic to the stage.

The talented ensemble cast also gets a boost with new members Ade Valenzona, Daniel Wesley, Jannah Baniasia, Cheska Quimno, Dippy Arceo, Iya Villanueva, and Jules Dela Paz.

And for those who want to make sure they catch the show no matter what, Paw Castillo will be on standby for Cyrano, Teetin Villanueva will be the standby for Roxane and the female swing, and Rofe Villarino will be the male swing.

A Timeless Tale Gets a Filipino Twist

Mula sa Buwan is a captivating Filipino musical based on Edmond Rostand’s classic Cyrano de Bergerac. But this isn’t your typical Cyrano. While it keeps the core story of unrequited love, beauty standards, and the fight for what you believe in, it reimagines the setting to 1940s Manila.

This fresh take lets the story unfold amidst wide-eyed dreamers, fools, and misfits, all fueled by harana (serenades), kundiman (love songs), and overflowing with genuine friendships. Through witty dialogue, heartwarming stories, and beautiful music, the characters fight for their place in a city on the cusp of change.

But when war strikes, love, ideals, and truth are put to the ultimate test. The young characters are forced to confront a harsh reality and find a way to “grow up” faster than they ever imagined.

A Legacy of Love for Theater

Created by Pat Valera and William Elvin Manzano in 2010, Mula sa Buwan has become a beloved Filipino tradition. Each new staging, from the GSIS Theater in 2011 to the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in 2022, has brought something fresh to the table while staying true to the play’s core message of love and resilience.

Don’t Miss Your Chance!

Mula sa Buwan 2024 runs for a limited engagement only, from August 16 to September 8, 2024, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati. Book your seats now and experience the magic of Filipino musical theater at its finest!

For more information and ticket reservations, visit mulasabuwan.com or purchase your tickets via TICKETWORLD or bit.ly/msb2024tickets. Get ready to be transported to a world where love knows no bounds and resilience reigns supreme. See you at Mula sa Buwan 2024!

June 1, 2024
The Final Countdown: “The Umbrella Academy” Season 4 Premieres August 8th!

The wait is over! The highly anticipated final season of The Umbrella Academy is set to premiere on August 8th, bringing fans back into the chaotic world of the Hargreeves siblings.

A New Normal

After the intense showdown at the Hotel Oblivion, the Hargreeves siblings find themselves in a completely reset timeline, devoid of their superpowers. Each sibling faces the daunting task of finding a new normal, grappling with their new realities with varying levels of success.

Reginald Hargreeves’ Shadowy Empire

Their enigmatic father, Reginald Hargreeves, is no longer lurking in the shadows. He has emerged into the public eye, leading a powerful and sinister business empire. His motives and machinations add a new layer of mystery and danger to the siblings’ already complicated lives.

The Keepers and the Great Reckoning

Adding to the intrigue, a secretive organization known as The Keepers conducts clandestine meetings, convinced that their reality is a fabricated lie. They believe a great reckoning is imminent, setting the stage for a thrilling confrontation.

The Final Battle

With these strange new forces converging, The Umbrella Academy must reunite one last time. They face the perilous task of risking the fragile peace they’ve fought so hard to achieve. Will they be able to set things right, or will this final attempt lead to even greater chaos?

May 31, 2024
Experience the Silence in the New “Hush” Featurette from “A Quiet Place: Day One”

Experience the gripping prequel to the thrilling series, A Quiet Place: Day One. This new installment takes audiences back to the day the world fell silent. “We have gone back to the beginning of what happened before the creatures invaded Earth,” explains Lupita Nyong’o, known for her role in Black Panther, who stars as Samira, one of the film’s lead characters.

Recurring Themes and New Twists

Joseph Quinn, famous for Stranger Things, takes on the role of Eric. He discusses the familiar themes and exciting new twists that fans can expect from this fresh adventure. “In A Quiet Place: Day One, we explore similar themes to the beginning of the second film, where we watch the Abbott family navigate this invasion. However, this time, we’re set in an urban environment: New York City,” Quinn shares.

A New, Devastating Perspective

Djimon Hounsou, reprising his role from A Quiet Place Part II, emphasizes the stark differences in this prequel. “It’s a completely different perspective. A different environment, a different setting, and this one is so much more devastating to witness,” he says. “Day One takes us to one of the densest, noisiest cities in the world, and turns it completely quiet.”

Survival in Silence

Watch as Samira, Eric, and others strive to survive and navigate through a more dangerous, quieter world. A Quiet Place: Day One promises an edge-of-your-seat experience, arriving in Philippine cinemas on June 26.

Distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures, don’t miss this thrilling cinematic event. Connect with #AQuietPlaceDayOne and tag @paramountpicsph for the latest updates and more.

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

May 31, 2024
The next Filipino K-Pop idol will be discovered in Robinsons Malls

Robinsons Malls has partnered with SBTown in their search for the next Filipino K-Pop idol.

If you’re 13 to 20 years old and have dreams of stardom, head to the SBTown Universe Audition happening from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on June 1 at Robinsons Metro East Co-Events Space and on June 2 at Robinsons Las Piñas Co-Events Space.

After the preliminary auditions, a final round will be held on June 8 at Robinsons Galleria.

Audition judges will include Geong Seong Han, more popularly known as Tatang Robin, the producer of the country’s biggest boy group SB19 and CEO of SBTown, and Adelaide Hong, Vice President of SBTown and trainer of SB19.

Three lucky auditionees will be chosen and get tickets to fly to South Korea, courtesy of Robinsons Malls.

“Robinsons Malls believes in the full potential and enormous talent of the Filipino youth. We strongly support the values of professionalism, self-development and artistry that the SB Universe wishes to impart through this special partnership,” said Joel Lumanlan, Robinsons Malls’ Vice President for Marketing and Operations.

The winners will also receive cash prizes from sponsors Chong Pal Kim, Chairman of Foscon and Worldwidelink Group of Companies, and In Mo Ku, CEO of Eagle 25. The grand winner will receive a P300,000 cash prize while the 1st runner-up will get P200,000 and two 2nd runners-up will get  P50,000 each.

Winners may also be selected by the judges to be sent to South Korea for K-Pop training. Successful auditonees may also be picked to train locally under SB Talent Camp. P10,000,000 worth of training experience and album and music video production await the chosen participant.

The final auditions, which will be held at Robinsons Galleria’s FunPark, will include an exciting mall show featuring SBTown’s homegrown talents YGIG, PLUUS and  Darlene.

Interested participants who are not signed under any other agency may pre-register online via https://forms.gle/1WzKn4poRKuFv3Wn7. Walk-ins will also be accepted on June 1 and 2.

Warm up those vocal cords, prepare your moves and get ready to dazzle the judges and you might just make the cut.

In a statement, SBTown said, “We are confident that this partnership will be a great success, and we hope to see you at Robinsons Malls!”

May 31, 2024
Martin Lawrence Says “Ride or Die” About Will Smith Real-life Friendship; “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” Premieres June 5

Will Smith and Martin Lawrence – cinema’s bad boys of action-comedy – are back again in Bad Boys: Ride or Die.

BERLIN, GERMANY – MAY 27: Martin Lawrence and Will Smith attend the European premiere of BAD BOYS: RIDE OR DIE at Zoo Palast on May 27, 2024 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Gerald Matzka/Getty Images for Sony Pictures)

“It’s magical to see them both together,” says Bilall Fallah, who directs with his partner Adil El Arbi, and are best-known as simply Adil & Bilall. “It’s unbelievable, the chemistry they have. It’s always surprising when you’re behind the monitors directing the scene and they come up with this genius golden humor – you sit back, relax, and see them perform.” When that magic happens, he says, his job is easy. “They’re the best duo on the big screen, and very unique.”

Smith says that his chemistry with Lawrence comes out of 30 years of respect for each other’s craft. “We both have grown and experienced a lot of life,” he says. “So, when we come together, the amount of respect and care, and concern for each other – it’s the only way to work.”

BERLIN, GERMANY – MAY 27: Bilall, Will Smith, Martin Lawrence and Adil attend the European premiere of BAD BOYS: RIDE OR DIE at Zoo Palast on May 27, 2024 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Sebastian Reuter/Getty Images for Sony Pictures)

In the mid-1990s, Martin Lawrence and Will Smith did not know each other before Lawrence cold-called Smith to see if the star of Fresh Prince of Bel-Air would be interested in teaming with the star of Martin for an R-rated buddy cop movie. Lawrence had the script, and his sister, who was a fan of Fresh Prince, suggested that her brother call Smith. The result was not only one of the great pairings in movie history that changed their lives, but a real-life friendship too. “It’s the best phone call I ever made,” says Lawrence. “We had known of each other’s work, but we’d never met. When we did meet, there was a mutual respect and it was clear we had a connection. Even now, 30 years later, we are close friends. Even when it has been a minute since we’ve seen each other, we know we can always count on each other. Ride or die, for real.”

“Isn’t that what we all want? Someone we can count on no matter what?” adds Smith. “That’s part of the joy of these movies – bad boys for life is truly for life.”

Bad Boys: Ride or Die sees Mike Lowrey (Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Lawrence) in the biggest jam they’ve ever faced: when new evidence comes to light implicating the late Captain Howard (Joe Pantoliano) in a lifetime of drug-related crimes, the Bad Boys vow to clear his name… even if it means coming in the crosshairs of the cartel and the cops.

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – MAY 22: Will Smith and Martin Lawrence attend the Dubai Premiere of Columbia Pictures BAD BOYS: RIDE OR DIE at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on May 22, 2024. (Photo by Clint Egbert)

Adil & Bilall return to the helm of the movie after also directing Bad Boys for Life and notching the franchise’s best reviews from critics and audiences alike. “When we were 19 and studying in Brussels in film school, we were always dreaming of one day being part of Hollywood, and we were always joking that if one day we would be getting the chance to go to Hollywood, we’d want to make a Bad Boys movie – a Bad Boys 3,” Bilall laughs. “But obviously, we never really believed that it would happen up until we got to ask Jerry [Bruckheimer, producer] and Will. And we’re still pinching ourselves. We are fanboys, so it’s still a very surreal feeling.”

Don’t miss out on explosive action and laugh-out-loud humor Bad Boys style when Bad Boys: Ride or Die, distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, opens in cinemas June 5. #BadBoys @columbiapicph

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

May 30, 2024
George Clooney and Brad Pitt Face Off in Hilarious Action Comedy “Wolfs,” Hitting Cinemas This September

Hollywood icons George Clooney and Brad Pitt team up once again, this time as rival fixers forced to collaborate in the upcoming action comedy “Wolfs.” Directed by Jon Watts, known for his work on the Spider-Man trilogy, “Wolfs” promises a night of unexpected twists, laughter, and high-octane action. Don’t miss it when it hits cinemas this September.

About “Wolfs”

“Wolfs” sees Clooney and Pitt in top form, delivering their trademark charm and wit. Clooney portrays a seasoned fixer hired to clean up a high-profile crime. The twist? Another fixer, played by Pitt, is also on the job, leading to a night of chaotic collaboration and comedic mishaps as these two “lone wolves” navigate the city’s underbelly.

Directed by Jon Watts

The film is helmed by Jon Watts, the creative force behind Marvel’s Spider-Man: Homecoming, Far From Home, and No Way Home. Watts brings his unique blend of action and humor to “Wolfs,” ensuring a cinematic experience that’s both thrilling and entertaining.

Star-Studded Cast

Alongside Clooney and Pitt, the film features an impressive cast including Amy Ryan, Austin Abrams and Poorna Jagannathan.

Production Team

“Wolfs” is produced by a powerhouse team: Grant Heslov, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Jon Watts and Dianne McGunigle.

“Wolfs” opens exclusively in cinemas this September. In the Philippines, it is distributed by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

Join the conversation and stay updated with the latest news by using the hashtag #WolfsMovie and following @columbiapicph on social media.

May 30, 2024
In Her Actresss Era: Tiffany Young Graces Uncle Samsik’s EP 7 as the Intriguing and Quick-Witted Rachel Jung

The long wait is over, Filo SONES! In case you missed it, Tiffany’s character, Rachel Jung, finally appeared on the seventh episode of Uncle Samsik, the latest political period drama on Disney+. Poised and charismatic, Rachel can easily persuade the men around her with her beautiful face and wit. In the recent episode of Uncle Samsik, we finally see Tiffany Young in her actress era and we can’t help but scream for more! So, catch more of her on Uncle Samsik streaming weekly on #DisneyPlusPH.

A femme fatale in white. Rachel Jung is confident and determined and she knows what she wants. Will she let the men around her stop her? No. Will she let the politics of the time be at odds with her goals? Absolutely not. Rachel is just getting started and she will stay and slay!

Face card? That’s an entire face economy. How can you say ‘no’ to THE Tiffany, we mean Rachel? Shrouded in mystery, will Rachel’s arrival shake up Uncle Samsik’s grand plan? Or does she have her own agenda to pursue? Ready for a competition, Yeojin?

May 29, 2024
Tickets Now on Sale for Marvel Studios’ “Deadpool & Wolverine” – The Ultimate Super Hero Team-Up!
Wade Wilson is back, and he’s got company! Tickets are now on sale for Marvel Studios’ “Deadpool & Wolverine” – the ultimate, iconic Super Hero team-up throwdown, arriving in Philippine cinemas on July 24. Don’t miss out on this epic event; book your tickets now to ensure you get the best seats in the house!

Star-Studded Cast and Crew

This highly anticipated feature film boasts a stellar cast, including:
- Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool
- Hugh Jackman as Wolverine
- Emma Corrin
- Morena Baccarin
- Rob Delaney
- Leslie Uggams
- Karan Soni
- Matthew Macfadyen
Directed by the talented Shawn Levy, the film promises to deliver action, humor, and heart.

Production Team

The movie is produced by Marvel Studios’ top talents:
- Producers: Kevin Feige, Ryan Reynolds, Shawn Levy, Lauren Shuler Donner
- Executive Producers: Louis D’Esposito, Wendy Jacobson, George Dewey, Mary McLaglen, Josh McLaglen, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, Simon Kinberg
The script is a collaborative effort by Ryan Reynolds, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, Zeb Wells, and Shawn Levy.

Secure Your Tickets Now!

With the excitement building, tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Secure your seats now and be among the first to witness the epic showdown between Deadpool and Wolverine.

About the Movie

Marvel Studios presents their most significant mistake to date—”Deadpool & Wolverine.” A listless Wade Wilson toils away in civilian life, leaving his morally flexible mercenary days behind him. However, when his homeworld faces an existential threat, Wade must reluctantly suit up again. And he’s not doing it alone; he has to convince an even more reluctant Wolverine to join the fight. Get ready for a blend of humor, action, and classic Deadpool shenanigans!

Join us in cinemas on July 24 to witness the epic team-up throwdown of Deadpool & Wolverine! Check screening times and buy tickets here.
May 29, 2024
NUSTAR Resort’s Mott 32 Cebu Shines Bright in the 2024 Tatler Dining Guide

The highly acclaimed Cebu outpost of Mott 32, located in the impressive NUSTAR Resort, is once again shining bright in the 2024 edition of the Tatler Dining Guide.

Mott 32, the epitome of luxury Chinese fine dining, has earned generous praise from Tatler, which stated, “Discover modern Hong Kong through every artful plate at Mott 32 Cebu. While inspired by tradition and heritage, the globally renowned brand offers a contemporary take on Cantonese cuisine like no other, peppered with Beijing and Szechuan influences.”

The restaurant’s inclusion in the prestigious food guide, now on its 19^th year of publication, highlights Mott 32’s distinctive approach to Chinese gastronomy, which combines time-honored techniques with innovative presentations. Mott 32 is renowned for its impeccable service, opulent interiors, and, most importantly, its menu that captivates the palates of discerning diners.

One of the standout dishes that has earned Mott 32 its iconic status is the legendary Apple Wood Roasted Peking Duck. Exemplifying the restaurant’s dedication to authenticity and quality, the Peking Duck’s crispy skin and succulent meat are the result of a meticulous roasting process, making it a definite must-try.

Another signature dish with rave reviews is the Barbecue Pluma Iberico Pork with Yellow Mountain Honey. This dish showcases the perfect blend of East and West, with the tender Iberico pork marinated in a luscious honey glaze, creating a pleasing symphony of flavors.

Mott 32 is dedicated to sustainability and takes pride in being a pioneer among Chinese fine-dining restaurants by offering plant-based alternatives. Dishes like the flavorful Shanghainese Soup Dumplings with minced “pork” and tofu and the Signature Smoked “Cod” are crafted with these innovative ingredients. These vegetarian and vegan versions, developed through months of meticulous research by the Mott 32 culinary team, provide delicious and sustainable options that maintain the integrity of their traditional flavors.

For those seeking an extraordinary gastronomic journey, Mott 32 Cebu is a destination that you can’t afford to miss. Its inclusion in the Tatler Dining Guide, apart from being named on the “Must-Know Chinese Restaurant in the Philippines” list by Tatler Philippines magazine, is a nod to Mott 32’s culinary excellence and an invitation for food enthusiasts to indulge in a feast of flavors that celebrate both tradition and creativity. Book your table now for a feast you won’t soon forget.

May 29, 2024
Dakota Fanning Embraces Mystery in Horror-Thriller “The Watchers”

“When Dakota came in, she brought this kind of texture with who she is, which is this effortless cool girl. She put the last piece into place and made Mina real for us,” writer-director Ishana Night Shyamalan shares about Dakota Fanning’s role in her feature debut “The Watchers.” Fanning stars as Mina, a character trapped in an enclosure with strangers in the forests of Ireland, stalked by mysterious creatures each night. The film delves into why the group is being watched and what these creatures want.

Crafting Mina: The Journey

Mina’s character evolved significantly during the film’s production. Shyamalan explains, “Building Mina was an interesting process because she didn’t fully exist until we began shooting. She represents the audience, capturing the essence of being young in today’s world. Mina embodies the cynicism and dissociation many of us feel.”

Fanning relates to her character deeply. “Mina is in a stagnant period of her life, searching for something, and encounters this supernatural experience. I can relate to this phase of being ‘in between,’ trying to figure out who you are and what you want. Ishana and I both connected with that aspect of Mina.”

Unveiling the Mystery

Fanning delves into the eerie dynamics within “The Watchers.” Mina encounters other characters after being pulled into a strange forest structure, referred to as “the coop.” “There’s almost a cult-like feeling with these strange rules. The other characters—Madeline, Ciara, and Daniel—can’t even explain it, which is even more unsettling for Mina,” Fanning describes.

A Blend of Horror and Thrill

Fanning is excited about how “The Watchers” will captivate audiences. I think it’ll definitely appeal to thriller lovers and horror lovers. It has so many of those aspects. There’s also this psychological element to it—I think for a lot of the movie you’re not even sure what you’re scared of, but you know you’re scared,” she says. “I love films like that. It has so many different aspects of a thriller and of a horror film—just the right amount of scares and gore and violence—but also subtlety. And mixed in with it all is some Irish folklore. It’s a wonderful combination.”

Release and Details

“The Watchers” hits Philippine cinemas on June 5. This horror-thriller, produced by M. Night Shyamalan, follows 28-year-old artist Mina, stranded in a Western Ireland forest. She finds shelter, only to become trapped with strangers, stalked by unseen creatures.

The film stars Dakota Fanning, Georgina Campbell, Oliver Finnegan, and Olwen Fouéré. Behind the scenes, it boasts a talented team, including director of photography Eli Arenson and production designer Ferdia Murphy.

Mark your calendars and unravel the mystery of “The Watchers” on June 5. Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, join the conversation with hashtags #TheWatchers and #AreYouWatching.

May 29, 2024