In an inventive promotion for the upcoming horror film “Tarot,” fans at The Grove in Los Angeles witnessed their nightmares spring to life. During a meticulously orchestrated prank, monsters from the film emerged from behind everyday movie posters, catching moviegoers completely off guard. The reactions, ranging from startled screams to nervous laughter, were captured in a must-see featurette titled “Theater Scare Prank.”
A Terrifying Collaboration
“Tarot,” penned and directed by the dynamic duo Anna Halberg and Spenser Cohen, explores the eerie and enthralling world of tarot cards. Their collaboration began with a shared goal to frighten not just their audience but each other. “That’s when we know that something is working,” Halberg says. “If we go like, ‘Oh gosh, that’s horrifying!!’ Then we’re like, ‘Yeah, let’s do that!,” Halberg shared during a recent interview.
The duo enlisted renowned horror illustrator Trevor Henderson, known for his viral creations like Siren Head, to bring the film’s monstrous visions to life. “We’re huge fans of Trevor Henderson, who’s an amazing artist that we follow on Instagram; we reached out to him and asked him to be the sole designer of all the creatures in the film,” says Cohen. “When we had the concept to bring the tarot cards to life, we knew we needed to bring these iconic cards—The Magician, The Devil, Death—to life in a way that would be the stuff of nightmares and in a way that no one had ever seen before.”
Art Meets Horror
To integrate these designs into the film’s tarot deck, graphic designer Richard Wells was brought on board. Wells worked to maintain the essence of Henderson’s terrifying creatures while adapting them for the tarot cards. “The great Trevor Henderson had already designed the monsters when I came on board,” says Wells. “My task was to retain the essence of his designs, but configure them into a form that would work for the tarot cards. In some cases, like the Hermit, that meant illustrating a setting for the character, emerging from a tunnel holding his lantern. In other cases, I gave some extra drama—like the Death card, having it stand in a landscape of skulls.” Wells explained.
Filming in the Heart of Serbia
The choice of Serbia as the filming location added an extra layer of authenticity and grandeur to “Tarot.” “[Serbia] allowed us to film in incredible locations that we probably wouldn’t have access to anywhere else,” says Cohen. “We closed down a bridge that looks like it should have been in a Mission: Impossible movie—that’s how big it is; it connects two parts of the country. We were able to close it down for two nights to shoot an incredible sequence on it. It was Serbia’s excitement at having us there that afforded us the ability to do that.” Cohen remarked.
Mark Your Calendars
“Tarot” is set to premiere in Philippine cinemas on May 1st. As the release date approaches, anticipation builds for this blend of classic horror and innovative filmmaking. The film stars a talented ensemble cast including Harriet Slate, Adain Bradley, and Jacob Batalon, and promises to deliver a thrilling cinematic experience.
Don’t miss “Tarot,” where fate is not just a card away – it’s a scream away. Connect with the film using the hashtag #TarotMovie.
About “Tarot”
In “Tarot,” a group of friends defy the sacred rule of tarot readings – never use someone else’s deck – and inadvertently release an evil beyond their wildest imaginations. As they face their destinies, they must outrun the grim future foretold by the cursed cards. This gripping tale of suspense and horror will pull you to the edge of your seat and leave you there, breathless and awaiting your fate.
Directed by Spenser Cohen and Anna Halberg, and produced by Leslie Morgenstein and Elysa Koplovitz Dutton, “Tarot” invites audiences to flirt with fate and explore the dark corners of the unknown.
In every action film, breathtaking sequences not only hold the audience’s attention but also highlight the ingenuity and commitment of the stunt team. “The Fall Guy,” directed by former stunt performer David Leitch, showcases this spectacularly, with each stunt echoing the peak of cinematic artistry.
Masterminds Behind the Madness David Leitch, together with producer Kelly McCormick, set out to create an unparalleled visual experience. By engaging top-tier talent such as Chris O’Hara, who received the pioneering credit of “Stunt Designer,” they’ve redefined roles within the industry. This new title appreciates the creative essence of designing high-octane scenes, a testament to the strategic ingenuity behind each sequence.
Kelly McCormick notes, “If widely utilized, it may lead to greater overall recognition of the artistic contributions the stunt community provides our industry.”
Spotlight on Diversity and Skill The team’s diversity is its strength, with Jojo Eusebio, a part-Filipino fight coordinator, bringing his rich experience from projects like “John Wick” to ensure the stunts resonate with authenticity and precision. Eusebio expressed his reverence for his mentors, Leitch and O’Hara, and the profound impact of their guidance on his career.
Stunt Highlights That Set Records
The Cannon Roll: Logan Holladay set a new Guinness World Record with a breathtaking eight and a half vehicle rolls on a specially prepared beach setting, pushing past the limits of traditional stunt performances.
The Alma/Colt Chase: Filmed on the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, this sequence ditched CGI for raw, practical effects, with Ryan Gosling performing adrenaline-pumping maneuvers in real traffic.
The 225-Foot Car Jump: Logan Holladay again shines with a truck jump over 225 feet across, demonstrating the blend of technical prowess and audacious spirit that defines the film.
The Boat Jump: With a ramp leading to an 80-foot leap, and Ryan Gosling at the helm after obtaining his boating license, this stunt was both a logistical and visual feat.
The High Fall From Helicopter: Troy Brown’s record-setting 150-foot fall from a helicopter into a meticulously sourced high-rated airbag showcased extreme dedication and skill, reflecting the movie’s ethos.
“In ‘The Fall Guy,’ Ryan Gosling’s character, Colt Seavers, exemplifies the unsung heroes of cinema — the stunt performers. From breathtaking falls to explosive crashes, they ensure the magic of movies impacts every viewer, all while weaving through a gripping narrative about a stuntman tackling life’s stunts,” McCormick adds.
Experience the art of cinema and stunts melded into one with “The Fall Guy,” premiering May 1 in Philippine cinemas. #TheFallGuyMoviePH
The Philippines’ world-first solo hosting of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship has gotten a boost as PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and Cignal TV announced their support for the prestigious volleyball tournament taking place on September 12-28, 2025.
(L-R) Sen Alan Peter S. Cayetano, DOT Office of Film and Sports Tourism Director Roberto Alabado III, Mediaquest Holdings Inc. and Cignal TV President and CEO Jane Jimenez Basas, and PNVF President Ramon Suzara at the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship press conference at the Marquis Events Place at Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
The country’s largest telco network PLDT will be the official broadband partner of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship. Cignal TV, the pay TV arm of the MediaQuest Group, will be the event’s official broadcaster.
“This is a great opportunity to inspire a new generation of Filipino athletes and showcase our countrymen’s passion for sports,” said Manuel V Pangilinan, Chairman and CEO of PLDT. “The Philippines is now taking center stage in the world of volleyball. We look forward to working with the DOT and the PNVF to provide a top-notch experience for fans all over the world.”
(Aries’ Photos) DOT Office of Film and Sports Tourism Director Roberto Alabado III, Sen Alan Peter S. Cayetano, PNVF President Ramon Suzara, and MediaQuest Holdings Inc. and Cignal TV President and CEO Jane Jimenez Basas pose with top UAAP, NCAA men’s volleyball players at the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship press event.
The Philippines is the first solo host nation of the biggest men’s volleyball tournament in the world. The event will also be the biggest FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship to date, as the tournament format expands to 32 teams. The sport has rapidly grown in popularity in the Philippines over the past few years, with a passionate fanbase supporting highly competitive leagues such as Spikers’ Turf, Premier Volleyball League (PVL), and Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Champions League.
PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan with Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) officers and Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon Suzara (3rd from left) and Secretary-General Don Caringal (rightmost).
“It will be a huge challenge to host the highest-ranking teams and fans from all over the world. But as Filipinos, we know we can create the best environment for everyone to compete at the highest level on our home soil.”, said PNVF president Ramon Suzara.
The Philippine men’s national volleyball team’s preparations will begin with a comprehensive selection process for the player pool and the unveiling of a new team name. Aside from supporting the national team, PLDT was a key partner in the recent 2023 Volleyball Nations League in Manila.
About PLDT
PLDT is the Philippines’ largest fully integrated telco company. Through its principal business groups — from fixed line to wireless — PLDT offers a wide range of telecommunications and digital services across the Philippines’ most extensive fiber optic backbone, and fixed line and cellular networks.
PLDT is listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE:TEL) and its American Depositary Shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:PHI). PLDT has one of the largest market capitalizations among Philippine — listed companies.
Further information can be obtained by visiting www.pldt.com
The Walt Disney Company and National Geographic announced a new global cross-platform campaign, ourHOME, timed to coincide with Earth Month. The campaign will spotlight efforts internally and externally that help protect, restore, and celebrate ourHOME by highlighting creators, storytellers, and cast members for their contributions.
For over a century, Disney has created stories that celebrate the wonders of the world we all share. And for more than 136 years, National Geographic has been synonymous with inspiring a deeper connection to our world. This year, these two powerful legacies are coming together to celebrate this beautiful planet we call home and the power within each of us to create change for the better.
ourHOME will bring compelling stories to the forefront, highlighting efforts being undertaken as part of Disney Planet Possible and our commitment to taking meaningful and measurable action to support a healthier planet for people and wildlife. A new digital series will be released spotlighting three Disney Planet Possible stories with Nat Geo talent visiting Walt Disney World Resort to see the work firsthand.
Disney+ marks the occasion with the launch of an ourHOME content collection, featuring some of the very best storytellers and content creators celebrating the planet, including the critically acclaimed series Queens, A Real Bug’s Life, Incredible Animal Journeys, along with the full library of Disneynature films.
Additionally, on Earth Day, April 22, 2024, the latest installment of Nat Geo’s Emmy® Award-winning Secrets Of… franchise, Secrets of the Octopus, narrated by Paul Rudd, will be released on Disney+. Also streaming on Disney+, Disneynature’s all-new feature film Tiger, narrated by Priyanka Chopra-Jonas, journeys alongside a young tigress raising her rambunctious cubs in the fabled forests of India.
“National Geographic is one of the most beloved and trusted global brands with a combined social media following of more than 750 million people. We harness this reach to remind people that the world is an amazing and miraculous place, filled with beauty, awe and wonder,” said Courteney Monroe, President, National Geographic. “This Earth Month we hope by sharing this passion we can also inspire others to protect, restore and celebrate our home.”
“Disney is committed to putting possibility into practice and inspiring optimism for a brighter, cleaner and more environmentally sustainable future,” said Yalmaz Siddiqui, Vice President, Environmental Sustainability, The Walt Disney Company. “We hope the ourHOME campaign with Nat Geo helps bring greater awareness of the beauty and majesty of our planet to audiences everywhere.”
ourHOME will touch every area of The Walt Disney Company:
ourHOME Digital
DisneyPlanetPossible.com – Destination detailing actions The Walt Disney Company is taking to protect, restore, and celebrate our planet.
Nat Geo.com/ourHOME – Destination for details on Nat Geo’s storied history of being a steward for the planet, as well as ourHOME campaign content.
Nat Geo Social – Using the full power of the Nat Geo social platforms, ourHOME will be amplified throughout the month, with curated daily posts around the three campaign pillars – Protect, Restore, Celebrate – as well as highlights of efforts across the entire campaign.
All relevant social handles will be celebrating ourHOME all month long, including: @Disney; @Disney+; @NatGeo; @NatGeoTV; @NatGeoWILD; @NatGeoTravel; @NatGeoAdventure; @NatGeoDocs.
OurHOME Digital Series highlights Disney Planet Possible stories with Alex Honnold (Free Solo) visiting Walt Disney World to learn more about how the company’s solar arrays not only provide renewable electricity but also provide habitat for bees and other pollinators; Mariana Van Zeller (award-winning journalist) visiting Walt Disney World to learn more about the recycling efforts at the parks, specifically related to the glass pulverizing initiative; and the Critter Fixers visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park at Walt Disney World to learn about wildlife care and conservation success stories at the park (along with some cute baby animals).
ourHOME Content
ourHOME Collection on Disney+ – Disney+ is launching an ourHOME collection withcontent that celebrates the beauty, awe, and wonder of our planet.
Secrets of the Octopus – Next installment of this franchise in partnership with James Cameron debuting on Earth Day, narrated by Paul Rudd and premiering on Disney+ onEarth Day.
Disneynature’s Tiger – All-new feature film narrated by Priyanka Chopra-Jonasstreams on Disney+ beginning Earth Day, marking 15 Years since Disneynature’sinaugural release, “Earth.”
ourHOME-themed programming scheduled across National Geographic Channel, NatGeo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Freeform, FX and FXX.
A dedicated ourHOME spot featuring the voice of Morgan Freeman, airing throughout the month across all of Disney networks, Disney owned television stations and selectdigital platforms.
ourHOME in the Parks
Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort will celebrate Earth Week, April 21-28, with specialty offerings and experiences that connect audiences with the magic of nature.
ourHOME Castle show at Disneyland Paris, highlighting scenes and images inspired by National Geographic explorers, will happen in the month of April.
Walt Disney World will also have Earth Month-themed food throughout the month of April.
Photo Activations – Special photo activations for Park goers at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disneyland Resort to celebrate the launch of Secrets of the Octopus.
Animation Academy – Special drawing activity at Disney California Adventure tied toSecrets of the Octopus.
Shanghai Disney Resort will host the ourHOME Nature Conservation Forum on April 22,joined by National Geographic Explorer Xi Zhinong and will see the return of the “Celebrate Earth – Earth Month Fair” at Disneytown from April 19 through 22.
ourHOME Giving
The Walt Disney Company will be making grants in excess of $1 million to charitable organizations through the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF). Funds will support global efforts to protect, restore and celebrate ourHOME. These programs add to the cumulative $125 million giving impact of DCF since it was established in 1995, with more than 1,000 species supported through programs that span half the countries of the world and all five oceans. Here are just a few examples happening this month:
Jane Goodall’s 90th birthday – In celebration of Jane Goodall’s 90th birthday on April 3 and in honor of her storied history with our company, Disney will provide funding to Jane Goodall’s Roots and Shoots, a program of the Jane Goodall Institute that empowers young people to create a better world for humans, other animals and our shared environment.
Disneynature’s Tiger: In celebration of the release of Tiger, DCF will also provide funding to support the conservation of tigers across Asia.
ourHOME in the Community
Disney VoluntEARS – Activations with various partners and organizations for TWDC employees to take action for the planet.
ourHOME with Cast Members
Special employee-engagement screenings and events in Disney offices around the world.
ourHOME Around the Globe
ourHOME campaign will be part of Disney Earth Month celebrations around the world in major regions in EMEA, APAC and LATAM.
ABOUT THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Entertainment, Sports and Experiences. Disney is a Dow 30 company and had annual revenues of $88.9 billion in its Fiscal Year 2023.
ABOUT DISNEY+
Disney+ is the dedicated streaming home for movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic and Star, along with The Simpsons and much more. The service offers an ever-growing collection of exclusive originals, including feature-length films, documentaries, live-action and animated series, and short-form content. With unprecedented access to Disney’s long history of incredible film and television entertainment, Disney+ is also the exclusive streaming home for the newest releases from The Walt Disney Studios. For more, visit disneyplus.com, or find the Disney+ app on select compatible mobile and connected TV devices.
ABOUT NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC
Award-winning and critically acclaimed National Geographic Content, part of a joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and the National Geographic Society, creates and delivers riveting stories and experiences in natural history, science, adventure and exploration. Inspiring a deeper connection to the world, the content studio reaches 300 million people worldwide in 180 countries and 33 languages across the global National Geographic channels (National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO), National Geographic Documentary Films, and direct-to-consumer platforms Disney+ and Hulu. Its diverse content includes Emmy® Award-winning franchise Genius, series Life Below Zero and Secrets of the Whales, and Oscar®- and BAFTA award-winning film Free Solo. In 2022, National Geographic Content was awarded eight News and Documentary Emmys, in addition to Life Below Zero’s Emmy win for Outstanding Cinematography for a Reality Program, it’s sixth Emmy overall. For more information, visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or follow Nat Geo on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.
Diverse cultures, perspectives and artistic styles are showcased in the Art Show Philippines exhibit “Cultural Kaleidoscope,” running at ARTablado Robinsons Antipolo until April 30.
ARTablado and Art Show Philippines are united by their common goal: to promote Filipino art and help Filipino artists. The two have been partnering since 2022.
ARTablado, a portmanteau of the words “art” and “entablado” (stage), is the initiative of Robinsons Land which has been giving artists the space and support they need so they can showcase their work to a bigger audience since 2020. Art Show Philippines is an artist-run community that aims to empower Filipino artists and make it possible for them to exhibit their work globally. It started during the pandemic and now has a network of over 2,000 exhibiting artists of all levels from all over the Philippines.
Art Show Philippines also holds fundraising exhibits for children with cancer and with special needs, art mentoring sessions, mental health programs for creative people, and gives grants to artists in need of art materials.
Artists get a chance to grow in Art Show Philippines, just like Jay Vincent Gatdula, who now helps organize and lead exhibitions. “I am happy to be a part of Art Show Philippines. With their help, I discovered my art style Sining Sawali [weaving of two different paintings together to make a single art piece] and have given me many opportunities like participating in local and international exhibits to represent our country.”
For many years now, artists have been using the internet to showcase their work but physical exhibits are still essential both for artists and the audience. Art Show Philippines founder Frederick Epistola talked about their importance. “Physical exhibits like the one at ARTablado can be incredibly important for Filipino artists for several reasons. First, they provide a platform for local artists to showcase their work to the public, allowing them to reach a wider audience and gain recognition for their talents. These exhibits also offer opportunities for artists to network with other creators and industry professionals, fostering collaboration and growth within the local art community. Additionally, physical exhibits can help Filipino artists connect with buyers and collectors, potentially leading to sales and further opportunities for their artistic careers to thrive. Overall, these exhibitions play a valuable role in promoting Filipino art and artists both locally and globally.”
And that’s exactly what ARTablado does. The art stages, which can be found in Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Antipolo, Summit Ridge Tagaytay and Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila, have given the spotlight to both up-and-coming talents and established artists, allowing people to enjoy their creations up close.
Epistola added, “ARTablado, a gallery in malls and hotels, helps artists by increasing their visibility to a wider and more diverse audience, making art more accessible to the public, potentially boosting sales through impulse purchases, and fostering community engagement within the mall environment.”
This time, at ARTablado Robinsons Antipolo, mallgoers will get to enjoy “Cultural Kaleidoscope” which features the work of a new generation of Art Show Philippines artists, most of whom are exhibiting in ARTablado for the first time.
One of the first-timers said, “I’m participating in an exhibit organized and presented by ARTablado for the first time. I appreciate that Robinsons Land’s ARTablado provides a venue for artists, no matter their experience level, and a space to pursue their passion.”
Some of the art that can be viewed at “Cultural Kaleidoscope” are “Sampaguita Garland Maker” by Lei De Jesus, “Habing Katutubo” by Joanne Nidea, “Mga Laro” by Marjowyn Vito, “Baro’t Saya” by Cristel Ramos, and “Almusal” by Paula Santiago Clarito.
Epistola said, “Like a kaleidoscope that creates beautiful patterns through a combination of different colors and shapes, this exhibit may showcase a colorful array of artwork that celebrates various cultural influences and artistic expressions. It suggests a rich tapestry of creativity and diversity for visitors to explore and enjoy.”
The exhibiting artists are as diverse and colorful as their art. Here are just some of them: Gina Flores-Molina is a dentist-painter from Batangas with a passion for Impressionism. Nikolai M Flores is a software analyst at a bank who creates abstract art. Maria Cecilia Tacayon-Sarinas is a professional animator who has a newfound love for painting. Elise Capunitan is a visual artist and architect in the making. Solenart is an ex-OFW who considers art her safe space and emotional therapy. Pat Munar-Wigan is a wife and mom of two with a deep love for visual arts. Jobert U. Serrano, a son of a farmer and who grew up in a city at the foot of Mt. Banahaw, finds inspiration in nature and animals. Paola Santiago Clarito is a painter who has published two contemporary coloring books.
Why did they choose to exhibit at ARTablado? Epistola said, “Collaborating with Artablado can boost the credibility of emerging artists and assist in their establishment within the art community.”
The artists traveled from all over, with some coming from as far as Pangasinan, Zambales and Cavite, to attend the exhibit opening.
Epistola said, “I am incredibly proud of the new breed of artists of Art Show Philippines. Their innovative approaches, creativity, and fresh perspectives continue to inspire and drive us forward. Each artist brings a unique talent and passion for pushing boundaries and creating impactful art.”
Set in an unnamed city surrounded by forests and with no recognizable culture or ethnicity, ‘Boy Kills World’ is a violent, action-packed (yet comedic) revenge story that comes off more like a video game at times. There is a commentary here about how authoritarian regimes breed the sort of violence that is at the heart of this story, but it gets muddled in all the graphic displays of it. There is a tender space in this narrative, but it can get overshadowed by all the blood and gore.
This city is ruled by the iron-first of the Van Der Koy dynasty. It’s matriarch, Hilda Van Der Koy (Famke Janssen), has put an annual event, a culling, where revolutionaries and “enemies of the state” are executed in public. Our protagonist, a child called Boy (Bill Skarsgard) manages to survive one culling where he lost both his mother and sister (and was rendered deaf and mute as well). He was taken in by a mysterious man called the Shaman (Yayan Ruhian), who trains him to be a weapon with the sole purpose of assasinating Hilda Van Der Koy. His internal world is narrated by a voice (H. Jon Benjamin) from an old arcade fighting game he used to play with his sister (Quinn Copeland).
Boy eventually gets his chance to take his revenge and sometimes guided, sometimes hindered by the hallucination of Nina, he enters in the lion’s den where he goes up against HIlda Van Der Koy, her army, and her family, played by Michelle Dockery, Brett Gelman, Sharlto Copley, and Jessica Rothe.
The film can be pretty straightforward. Boy trains and becomes a deadly human weapon and then, as he is older, he makes a go out of killing Hilda Van Der Koy. On the way, he meets up with the members of the resistance (Andrew Koji and Isaiah Mustafa) and manages to interact with the Van Der Koy family and we see a sort of deconstruction of what it probably feels like to be a part of despotic family.
‘Boy Kills World’ plays off like a video game. Everything is hyper-real. The acting is overt and pronounced. It’s not a place for subtlety (except for Skarsgard, which I’ll get to later). Everything is big and explosive. Everything is fast-paced, relentless, and merciless. There’s some fantastic fight choreography that never lets up. It’s hard-hitting and brutal. In fact, it is sometimes shaky and cut so fast that we sometimes don’t understand the sense of place and time. What we do see is when the punches land, when the knives cut, when the blood spurts out, and the bones break. There’s a lot of emphasis here on the brutality. At first it feels fun and thrilling and exciting. After the first hour, though, it feels senseless and overdone.
The commentary on this kind of revenge seems very one-sided but interesting to delve into. We are living in a world of despots and authoritarian regimes. They lord over the people with such power that they can kill indiscriminately, and it fosters the kind of rebellion that will want to pay back blood with blood. Boy, in his killing spree, is positioned as someone with a justification for his homicidal rage. HIs family was killed, and he was trained and almost brain-washed to be nothing but a killer. But as the film unfolds and the way he wreaks havoc upon the Van Der Koy’s and their army (there’s a vicious fight scene involving a cheese grater that is going to be unforgettable) starts to put into question how much joy are we to take from all this violence?
What keeps the film grounded is Bill Skarsgard fantastic performance. His physicality and his ability to embody the role of a human weapon is terrific. I believe him. And without a single bit of dialogue (his character is mute), he is able to portray a vast number of feelings that is narrated in a hilarious manner by H. Jon Benjamin. Benjamin’s lines were written with a sort of naivete since he’s the voice of Boy’s inner monologue. He never had a childhood, and he never grew up in a normal world. In a way, he is still a little boy who knows nothing but to kill and this is represented by his monologue. Skarsgard then translates this perfectly with his facial reactions and it completely humanizes. It’s an amazing work that is enjoyable to watch throughout this film.
While the fight scenes get more and more intense, especially those that involve the Shaman and Rothe’s character, strangely a woman called June 27 (and this is never explained). These two people and Boy have the best fight scenes and are saved up for last. It’s almost like a ballet except it’s brutal and deadly.While the film manages to find a tender heart by the end, it’s a lot of bloody, gory violence to get through. It never pretends to be anything deeper than a revenge film, though it does a pretty good 180 degree turn by its end that somehow softens the films hard edges but other than Bill Skarsgard’s portrayal of Boy.
Imagine a world where apes call the shots and humans are relegated to the fringes. That’s the reality in “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” the upcoming epic hitting Philippine theaters on May 8. To celebrate its arrival, the cast and filmmakers gathered in London for a special screening, offering a taste of the film’s opening act.
(L to R) Joe Hartwick Jr., Kevin Durand, Freya Allan, Owen Teague, Andy Serkis and Wes Ball attend the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ at BFI IMAX Waterloo, London, on April 25, 2024. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)
Stars Owen Teague, Freya Allan, and Kevin Durand joined director/producer Wes Ball and the legendary Andy Serkis, who brought Caesar to life in the previous trilogy, for a night unlike any other. The BFI IMAX® theater in London buzzed with excitement as fans filled the seats for a first look at the film’s first 32 minutes. Hosted by Edith Bowman, the event also showcased a special montage, further amping up the anticipation for this summer’s must-see movie.
(L to R) Edith Bowman, Andy Serkis, Kevin Durand, Freya Allan, Owen Teague and Wes Ball attend the Q&A at the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ at BFI IMAX Waterloo, London, on April 25, 2024. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)(L to R) Edith Bowman, Andy Serkis, Kevin Durand, Freya Allan, Owen Teague and Wes Ball attend the Q&A at the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ at BFI IMAX Waterloo, London, on April 25, 2024. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)
An Exclusive Preview Night
The special screening not only highlighted key scenes but also included a montage that set the stage for this next chapter in the renowned 20th Century Studios franchise. With “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” director Wes Ball—known for his work on the “Maze Runner” trilogy—brings a fresh vision to the epic narrative, continuing the saga several generations after Caesar’s reign.
Andy Serkis attends the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ at BFI IMAX Waterloo, London, on April 25, 2024. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)(L to R) Freya Allan, Andy Serkis and Owen Teague attend the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ at BFI IMAX Waterloo, London, on April 25, 2024. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 25: Freya Allan attends the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” at BFI IMAX Waterloo on April 25, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures UK)(L to R) Andy Serkis, Wes Ball, Freya Allan, Owen Teague and Kevin Durand attend the UK Launch Event of 20th Century Studios’ ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ at BFI IMAX Waterloo, London, on April 25, 2024. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” opens in movie theaters in the Philippines on May 8, 2024, and will be available in IMAX®, Dolby Cinema®, 4DX, ScreenX, and premium screens everywhere.
Director Wes Ball breathes new life into 20th Century Studios’ global epic franchise set several generations in the future following Caesar’s reign, in which apes are the dominant species living harmoniously, and humans have been reduced to living in the shadows. As a new tyrannical ape leader builds his empire, one young ape undertakes a harrowing journey that will cause him to question all that he has known about the past and to make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike.
Star-Studded Cast and Visionary Crew
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is directed by Wes Ball (the “Maze Runner” trilogy) and stars Owen Teague (“IT”), Freya Allan (“The Witcher”), Kevin Durand (“Locke & Key”), Peter Macon (“Shameless”), and William H. Macy (“Fargo”). The film is written by Josh Friedman (“War of the Worlds”), based on characters created by Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver (“Avatar: The Way of Water”), and the producers are Wes Ball, Joe Hartwick, Jr., p.g.a. (“The Maze Runner”), Rick Jaffa, p.g.a., Amanda Silver, p.g.a., Jason Reed, p.g.a. (“Mulan”), with Peter Chernin (the “Planet of the Apes” trilogy) and Jenno Topping (“Ford v. Ferrari”) serving as executive producers.
Disney+ has launched #FindYourselfHere, a campaign aimed at empowering fans from all walks of life to discover more content across genres, brands, and franchises on the platform. From Hollywood blockbusters to exciting original content from Asia Pacific, there’s something for everyone!
Instead of discovering new favorite content within a single brand or franchise, fans are challenged to start exploring content across Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and Star to discover their unique viewing personas!
Here are some personas and list of recommended content across brands and franchises for those that would like to start discovering with a little help:
The “Hopeless Romantic”
Maybe you like to see yourself as the main character of your own personal love story, savouring lots of kilig moments every day. Some of the dreamiest romcoms can be found on Disney+, like millennials’ comfort show How I Met Your Mother, ‘90s Disney favorite The Parent Trap, the Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet classic Titanic, the long-running medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, or a contemporary kilig-inducing Korean drama like Soundtrack #2. There’s just so much to fall in love with on Disney+!
The “Heroic Spirit”
Maybe you fancy yourself as a brave hero taking on the daunting tasks and obstacles of everyday life, and you like watching things that inspire you and your personal heroics. Something like the thrilling adventures of Shōgun, the must-watch superhuman Korean series Moving, the high-pressure experiences of emergency responders in 9-1-1, the popular and timeless Indiana Jonesmovie franchise, or the opening season of Percy Jackson and The Olympiansare right there for you to watch.
The “Virtual Explorer”
Or maybe you’re a curious explorer, who wants to see as much of the world as possible, visiting as many places and tasting as many different flavors as you can. Disney+ is also home to great travel and food content from National Geographic—see the sights of the Earth on a show like Lost Cities with Albert Lin, learn about marvelous ancient history within Lost Treasures of Rome,or savor delicious food vicariously on a show likeFX’s The Bear. There’s a lot more where that came from, too, if you want to satisfy your curious spirit!
The “Musical Maven”
For a lot of us, music is life and Disney+ offers content with moving melodies! The Broadway phenomenon Hamilton and its karaoke-friendly sing-along version is there for you to sing and rap along to, as well as other animated Disney musical favorites! Concert specials await you, such as BTS: PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE – LA featuring the beloved Bangtan boys, BLACKPINK: THE MOVIE starring one of the most popular K-pop girl groups in the world, pop icon Taylor Swift in Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor’s Version), and so many more! You can also get a deeper look into the stories of global pop icons through documentaries and films such as Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi StoryandLet It Be, the original 1970 film about The Beatles launching on May 8.
That’s only a small taste of what you can find on Disney+. There are many titles you can browse, and you can feed it with all the stories that will hit your personal sweet spot. All you have to do is subscribe, open up the Disney+ app and dive in. Once you start watching, Disney+ will start showing you other titles in the same genre and mood!
So explore and discover more of your favorite content across Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, National Geographic, and Star on Disney+. There’s something for everyone and every mood – your kilig, adventurous, mysterious, thrill-seeking self and more!
With all of this, you can #FindYourselfHere on Disney+
Get ready for a spine-chilling adventure! M. Night Shyamalan, the iconic filmmaker known for his mastery of suspense, is back with his newest thriller, “Trap.” The movie is set to hit Philippine cinemas on August 7, but fans can catch the first trailer now, which promises an electrifying blend of suspense and drama.
When a Concert Becomes a Conundrum
“Trap” tells the story of a father and his teenage daughter who attend a pop concert, looking forward to a night of music and fun. However, their night takes a dark turn when they become embroiled in a sinister and mysterious event. The film explores their fight for survival in a scenario filled with unexpected twists—a hallmark of Shyamalan’s storytelling.
Star-Studded Cast Brings the Story to Life
The film stars Josh Hartnett as the protective father with Ariel Donoghue playing his daughter, making her a significant figure in the unfolding drama. The cast also includes Saleka Shyamalan, the esteemed Hayley Mills, and Alison Pill, each bringing depth and intensity to this thrilling narrative.
First Glimpse of Suspense
The first trailer for “Trap” has been unveiled, setting an eerie, high-stakes tone for what will undoubtedly be another Shyamalan classic. The preview hints at the intense emotional and physical challenges the characters face, wrapped in the atmospheric tension that fans eagerly anticipate from Shyamalan’s movies.
Mark Your Calendars for a Thrilling Experience
As “Trap” prepares to thrill Philippine audiences, be sure to watch the gripping trailer and prepare for a movie that promises to keep you guessing until the very end. This film is a must-see for fans of psychological thrillers and admirers of Shyamalan’s unique cinematic style.
John Krasinski, renowned for his ingenuity in “A Quiet Place,” unveils his long-awaited comedy adventure “IF.” This film brings to life a world where imagination reigns supreme, helmed by an ensemble cast led by Ryan Reynolds.
Genesis of ‘IF’
The concept of “IF” germinated in Krasinski’s creative mind about seven years ago. Originally inspired by the notion of imaginary friends, Krasinski envisioned a narrative that celebrates creativity and the boundless realms of imagination. “It’s been a dream to bring this story of ‘IFs’ to the screen,” Krasinski shares. Ryan Reynolds adds, “John has always envisioned this project as a live-action experience that echoes the wonder typical of Pixar animations.”
Stellar Cast and Characters
“IF” boasts an exceptional cast, featuring voices from Hollywood’s finest including Steve Carell, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, and Maya Rudolph. Fiona Shaw portrays the spirited grandmother of protagonist Bea, played by Cailey Fleming. Shaw remarks, “This film thrives on active imagination, a trait that John splendidly brings to life on set.”
The Plot
“IF” unfolds the tale of a young girl who discovers she can see everyone’s imaginary friends. Armed with this newfound ability, she embarks on a magical quest to reunite these forgotten friends with their children. It’s a journey that promises laughter, surprises, and heartwarming moments.
Worldwide Release and Expectations
Scheduled for release in Philippine cinemas on May 15, “IF” promises to be a delightful cinematic experience for audiences of all ages. With its unique premise and an all-star cast, the film is set to captivate imaginations and celebrate the power of creativity.
Connect with ‘IF’
Join the adventure and connect with the magic of “IF” by following the hashtag #IFMovie and tagging @paramountpicsph on your social media platforms.
