Netflix reignites the magic of the beloved animated series ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender‘ with its highly anticipated live-action adaptation. The official trailer and main key art, released recently, promise an enthralling journey through a world where mastery over Water, Earth, Fire, and Air can shape destinies.
A World Divided, A Hero Awakens
In a realm where four elemental nations once coexisted in harmony, the story unfolds with the Fire Nation’s ruthless ambition to conquer all. The Avatar, a being capable of bending all four elements, is the world’s only hope. After the Fire Nation decimates the Air Nomads, the responsibility falls upon young Aang (Gordon Cormier), the last Airbender and the new Avatar.
A Quest of Elemental Proportions
The trailer showcases Aang’s journey alongside Sokka (Ian Ousley) and Katara (Kiawentiio) of the Southern Water Tribe. Together, they embark on an epic quest to master the elements and combat the Fire Nation’s aggression. Threatened by Fire Lord Ozai (Daniel Dae Kim) and pursued by Prince Zuko (Dallas Liu), their path is one of adventure and peril.
Behind the Scenes of a Masterpiece
Under the guidance of showrunner, executive producer, and writer Albert Kim (Sleepy Hollow, Nikita), and directors Jabbar Raisani (Lost in Space, Stranger Things) and Michael Goi, ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ is set to be a visual spectacle. The series, produced by Dan Lin (The Lego Movie, Aladdin) and Lindsey Liberatore (Walker) from Rideback, is a tribute to the original animation and a bold new chapter in its legacy.
Embrace the spirit of adventure and witness the rebirth of a legend with Netflix’s ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender‘. Check out the official trailer and key art now! #NewAdventureAwaits #AvatarOnNetflix #ElementalJourney
The dawn of 2024 beckons a year filled with moments waiting to be celebrated, and what better way to commemorate them than with the delectable allure of Red Ribbon’s latest offering? Introducing the ALL-NEW Round Dedication Cakes, these sweet creations promise to be the highlight of your festivities.
Elevate Your Celebrations
Experience a touch of sophistication with the all-new Round Dedication Cakes from Red Ribbon. These cakes feature classier and more elegant round designs, promising to be the perfect centerpiece for any occasion. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also deliver the same delightful taste that will captivate cake and dessert enthusiasts, making every celebration extraordinary.
A Symphony of Flavors
Indulge in rich chocolate celebrations with the luscious Round Chocolate Dedication Cake. Boasting moist chocolate filling and icing, this timeless flavor is a crowd-pleaser, making it the ideal choice for birthdays, anniversaries, and festive holidays.
For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Round Creamy Caramel Dedication Cake offers a soft vanilla chiffon base complemented by decadent caramel cream icing. This elegant creation, with its sweet and smooth caramel flavor, is perfect for elevating any moment, turning small victories into reasons for celebration.
Round Chocolate and Creamy Caramel
Introducing the stars of the show—the Red Ribbon Round Chocolate Dedication Cake and Round Creamy Caramel Dedication Cake! With prices starting at Php 450, these exquisite and expertly crafted cakes are currently available in selected Luzon stores. Ordering is made easy through the Red Ribbon app, official website, or their hotline at #87777. Moreover, you can also enjoy the convenience of placing orders via GrabFood and foodpanda.
Embrace the elegance and delectable flavors of Red Ribbon’s Round Dedication Cakes, ensuring that your celebrations are nothing short of extraordinary. Make every moment special, and let the festivities begin!
The Jollibee Group is off to a great start this 2024 with the opening of the first Common Man Coffee Roasters (CMCR) cafe in the Philippines at the Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City last January 11, 2024. This milestone opening is part of the Jollibee Group’s aggressive growth plans this year, consistent with its vision of becoming one of the top five restaurant companies in the world.
“We’re excited to bring the Common Man Coffee Roasters in the country and give the community an elevated café experience,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, Jollibee Group’s President and CEO.
“Common Man’s consciously sourced coffee and numerous deliciously healthy brunch options contribute to this experience and help fulfill our mission of spreading the joy of eating to everyone. We invite everyone to come visit our first ever Common Man Coffee Roasters café,” he added.
Championing specialty coffee & brunch
Established in 2013, Common Man Coffee Roasters aims to champion specialty coffee and the best all-day brunch and has expanded from Singapore to Malaysia, and now the Philippines. It also roasts and sells coffee beans and operates the Coffee Barista Academy in Singapore and Malaysia, which provides coffee training to baristas and coffee enthusiasts.
In the Philippines, the breadth of the café’s menu includes different types of specialty coffee, bannered by the Nitro Honey Oat Latte and Filter Brew. Its brunch is thoughtfully crafted, headlined by the Common Man Full Breakfast that has generous servings of sausage, bacon, portobello mushroom, hash browns, house-made baked chorizo beans, and greens along with artisanal sourdough. The crowd favorite Common Man Beef Brisket Benedict packs an indulging punch of savory in its tender braised beef topped by poached eggs and creamy hollandaise.
The first location in the country, which has a modern, casual, “come as you are” ambiance, also features its own roastery.
“Having a roastery on site for us to showcase the roasting method will not only help the customers understand the coffee process better, but it will also offer a unique dining and sensory experience for them,” said Koon Beng Chua, CEO of the Spa Esprit Group, which operates Common Man Coffee Roasters in Singapore.
Celebrating partnerships
The Jollibee Group announced its joint venture with Food Collective Pte. Ltd. (FCPL) through FCJB Foods Inc. to own and operate Common Man Coffee Roasters in the Philippines in August 2023. The Jollibee Group owns 60 percent in FCJB Foods Inc.
“This is the first café from our partnership with the Spa Esprit Group and we’re looking forward to expanding the Common Man Coffee Roasters experience to more people. The strong collaboration between the two partners is very evident and is greatly rewarded by the enjoyment we see from people upon entering the café and upon tasting our menu selections. We recognize the increasingly discerning palate of Filipinos and we’re here to delight them,” said Joseph Tanbuntiong, Jollibee Group Chief Business Officer, during the store’s inauguration and opening.
The inauguration rites were attended by Singaporean Ambassador to the Philippines Constance See, Makati Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo, Spa Esprit Group CEO and Common Man Coffee Roasters’ co-founder Koon Beng Chua, Spa Esprit Food Group’s General Manager Michael Bovell, Ayala Malls President Mariana Zobel de Ayala, and Ayala Land Estates Group Deputy Head Chris Maglanoc. The Jollibee Group was represented by its President and CEO, Ernesto Tanmantiong, its Chief Business Support Officer and Chief Real Estate & Design Officer, William Tan Untiong, and its Chief Business Officer, Joseph Tanbuntiong, along with the President and Group Head for Greenwich, Red Ribbon, and Foreign Franchised Brands, JJ Alano, and AVP and Head of Business Development for Foreign Franchised Brands, Ned Bandojo.
The Common Man Coffee Roasters at Ayala Triangle is open every Monday to Sunday from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.
To learn more about Common Man Coffee Roasters Philippines, visit their website, or follow them on social media via Facebook and Instagram.
Aside from Japan, Filipinos are also visiting other short-haul flight destinations with Hong Kong, Thailand, South Korea, and Singapore rounding out the top five choices. The preferred international cities for Pinoy travelers include Tokyo, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Osaka, and Singapore.
Looking at which travelers will be visiting the Philippines during Lunar New Year, Agoda’s booking data highlights South Korea, China, United States, Japan, and Singapore as top inbound markets. The ranking showcases the diversity of tourists that the country continues to attract. The five most popular destinations visited within the Philippines are Manila, Cebu, and beach hotspots Boracay, Bohol, and Palawan.
Although officially celebrated on Saturday, February 10, 2024, the Lunar New Year holiday is extended to a long weekend in many markets across Asia and week-long celebrations for China, Japan (Spring Holiday) and Vietnam (Tet). The holiday, also referred to as Chinese New Year, is traditionally one of the peak travel moments for tourists from mainland China. For the first time since 2019, China is back in contention, ranking third source market overall and securing a spot in the top-five inbound lists for Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Enric Casals, Associate Vice President Southeast Asia at Agoda, commented, “The Lunar New Year period is a significant time for travel, and this year is no different. Since 2019, hotels and destinations have diversified the appeal of their markets with visa-free travel and other incentives. That has made them less reliant on one market and more appealing to new travelers. But the travel industry will no doubt be looking forward to welcoming back more travelers from China this year.”
Regionally, the trends echo a similar sentiment. The most outbound travelers hail from markets like South Korea, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, and Japan. The most visited markets by these international tourists include Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam, showcasing a wide array of cultural and leisure options. Cities like Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, and Osaka remain appealing, underscoring the region’s rich urban and cultural diversity.
Agoda’s platform, offering over 3.9 million holiday properties, flights, and activities, is ideally positioned to cater to these evolving travel preferences, providing seamless experiences for those celebrating the Lunar New Year, whether within Thailand or across the region.
Disney+ has just launched the captivating new trailer and teaser poster for the final chapter of Lucasfilm Animation’s “Star Wars: The Bad Batch,” a spellbinding series loved by fans worldwide. This culmination of the saga, born from the Emmy® award-winning “Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” is set to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Epic Adventures and Trials Ahead: The Batch’s Final Journey
In this gripping finale, the Batch faces their most challenging adventures yet. The quest to reunite with Omega takes them into the heart of a remote Imperial science lab. Surrounded by danger and fragmented, they must find unlikely allies, undertake perilous missions, and harness all they’ve learned to break free from the clutches of the Empire.
A Stellar Voice Cast: Bringing the Galaxy to Life
The series boasts an incredible voice cast, featuring talents like Dee Bradley Baker of “American Dad!” fame, Michelle Ang from “Fear the Walking Dead: Flight 462,” Keisha Castle-Hughes known for “Whale Rider,” Jimmi Simpson of “Westworld,” Noshir Dalal from “It’s Pony,” and the comedic brilliance of Wanda Sykes in “The Upshaws.”
The Creative Force Behind the Series: A Team of Visionaries
“Star Wars: The Bad Batch” is helmed by an impressive roster of executive producers: Dave Filoni (“Ahsoka,” “The Mandalorian”), Athena Portillo (“Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” “Star Wars Rebels”), Brad Rau (“Star Wars Rebels,” “Star Wars Resistance”), Jennifer Corbett (“Star Wars Resistance,” “NCIS”), and Carrie Beck (“Ahsoka,” “The Mandalorian”). With Josh Rimes as co-executive producer and Alex Spotswood as the senior producer, Rau also serves as the supervising director, alongside Corbett as the head writer.
Metal heads rejoice! Corey Taylor, the iconic frontman of Slipknot and Stone Sour, is finally coming to Manila and is set to take the stage at the New Frontier Theater on Monday, April 1, 2024!
Known for his powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence, Corey Taylor is no stranger to metal & rock fans worldwide. With a career spanning over two decades, he has amassed a dedicated global following, and his live performances are nothing short of legendary. Fans can expect an evening filled with his biggest hits, both as a solo artist and as frontman of Slipknot and Stone Sour.
The upcoming concert promises to be a highlight of Manila’s 2024 music calendar, with a setlist that spans Taylor’s illustrious career and showcases his versatility as a musician and entertainer. From chart-topping hits like “Through Glass”, “Duality” and “Before I Forget” to hits from his solo album, “CMFT” and “CMF2”, Corey Taylor is going to deliver an unforgettable night of rock & roll!
Tickets for the Corey Taylor Manila show will go on sale starting Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at 12:00 PM and will be available for purchase through www.InsigniaPresents.com or at any Ticketnet outlets nationwide.
For more information and updates on the event, please visit www.InsigniaPresents.com or follow us on social media @InsigniaPresents.
Celebrate with festive gales, cherish reunions that forever last, as the golden dragon’s majestic cast, wishing peace unsurpassed. As the Year of the Wood Dragon approaches, gather in your premier dining destination of choice for Lunar New Year, Summer Palace and experience an extravagant array of signature dishes curated to elevate the spirit of celebration and usher in a prosperous year ahead at Edsa Shangri-La, Manila.
Embark on a culinary journey with Summer Palace’s meticulously prepared and curated set menus that seamlessly blend traditional flavours with a modern twist, promising an unforgettable dining experience for you and your loved ones. With Chefs Andy Liew and Boonhoe Bun at the helm, guests can choose from the rich selection of culinary options from Wealth Set Menu priced at Php25,388 net per table of 10, Prosperity Set Menu at Php27,688 net per table of 10, and Longevity Menu at Php38,888 net per table of 10, available from January 15 to February 12, 2024. Savour sumptuous dishes such as our Braised Supreme Seafood Soup and Pan-fried Codfish Fillet in Apple Fruit Sauce.
Welcome the Year of the Wood Dragon with the special Summer Palace Nian Gao collection, available at the restaurant located at the mezzanine floor or at the Lunar New Year counter located at the hotel lobby from January 16 to February 25, 2024. You may also shop now via our Shangri-La eBoutique through this link https://bit.ly/esllunarnewyeartreats.
From gourmet treats to symbolic treasures, each of these indulgent offers from The Bakeshop are prepared with care to bring abundance and good fortune to your festivities.
Fortune & Prosperity Hamper
Cakes and Pastries
For inquiries, please visit the Lunar New Year counter at the main lobby of Edsa Shangri-La, Manila, call (63 2) 8633-8888 local 8803, or e-mail restaurantrsvns.esl@shangri-la.com.
Visit www.shangri-la.com/manila/edsashangrila or like and follow us on our social media pages facebook.com/edsashangrila and @edsashangrila on Instagram to stay connected.
Are you ready for your weekly dose of cinematic excitement? As a new week begins, get ready to indulge in a set of cinematic wonders set to unfold on the big screen. Whether you’re in the mood for an emotional drama, a heart-pounding action film, a thought-provoking comedy, or a spine-tingling thriller, this week’s movie lineup has got you covered. Let’s jump right in and explore the new movies opening this week!
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
2023 • PG • 1 hr 39 mins DRAMA, FANTASY BUY TICKETS
Enter the digital realm with “GG The Movie,” where Seth, an ambitious gamer, plunges into the competitive world of barkada gaming. His passion for video games is more than just play; it’s a journey of self-discovery and resilience. As he navigates the challenges of his family life, Seth’s story is a testament to the spirit of every aspiring gamer. Are you ready to join him on his quest?
2023 • PG • 1 hr 39 mins DRAMA, FANTASY BUY TICKETS
In “Itutumba Ka Ng Tatay Ko,” meet Teteng, a single father and film director’s assistant grappling with a terminal illness. Despite his fears and impending fate, Teteng’s love for his daughter Tintin knows no bounds. When Tintin is kidnapped, Teteng unleashes his hidden strength in a relentless battle against time and adversaries. His journey is a stirring portrayal of a father’s love and valor. Will he succeed in his ultimate fight for his daughter’s safety?
2023 • PG • 1 hr 39 mins DRAMA, FANTASY BUY TICKETS
“Miller’s Girl” takes us into the life of a young, talented writer whose latest assignment from her teacher spirals into a complex web of emotions and stories. This film is a creative odyssey that explores the boundaries between fiction and reality, teacher and student, and the art of storytelling. How far will the writer go in her quest for the perfect narrative?
2023 • PG • 1 hr 39 mins DRAMA, FANTASY BUY TICKETS
Prepare to be chilled to the bone with “Skeletons in the Closet.” This horror-thriller delves into the life of a mother haunted by a malevolent spirit since childhood. In a desperate bid to save her terminally ill daughter, she confronts her darkest fears and allows herself to be possessed. It’s a story of maternal love and the harrowing lengths one will go to protect their child. Can she exorcise the demons of her past to save her daughter’s future?
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:
That’s a wrap for this week’s new movie releases. So, don’t wait! Secure your tickets, grab your popcorn, and immerse yourself in the excitement of these new releases. As always, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on these must-see releases. Remember to check ClickTheCity for screening times and make your next movie-going experience unforgettable. Stay tuned for next week’s movie updates, and happy watching!
Prepare for the ultimate showdown as “Tokyo Revengers 2: Bloody Halloween – Decisive Battle“, the much-anticipated sequel to Ken Wakui’s blockbuster manga series, makes its grand entrance in Philippine theaters on February 7. This epic live-action adaptation promises to deliver a heart-racing finale to the riveting two-part saga.
Takemichi’s Quest Continues
Takemichi Hanagaki, portrayed by the talented Takumi Kitamura, edges closer to unraveling the enigmatic Valhalla gang’s secrets. As war looms between the formidable Toman and Valhalla gangs, Takemichi is on a critical mission: to alter the past and save his beloved Hinata, played by Mio Imada, from a tragic fate. The key lies in understanding the infamous “Bloody Halloween” brawl that shapes their future.
Turmoil Within Toman: Allies Turn Foes
The Tokyo Manji Gang is on the brink of collapse. Inner conflicts rise as Keisuke Baji, a founding member and First Division Captain, shockingly defects to Valhalla. Meanwhile, Toman’s leader, Mikey (Ryo Yoshizawa), makes an unexpected move by welcoming former rival Tetta Kisaki into their ranks. Takemichi finds himself navigating a treacherous path of betrayal and camaraderie, desperate to piece together past events that could save Hinata.
Stellar Cast Brings the Saga to Life
Takumi Kitamura shines as Takemichi, bringing depth and intensity to the role. His accolades include winning the 41st Japan Academy Award for Best New Actor. Ryo Yoshizawa, portraying the enigmatic Mikey, adds layers to the complex character. Yuki Yamada, as Draken, brings his remarkable talent to the screen, showcasing his versatility and acting prowess.
Unmissable Theatrical Experience
“Tokyo Revengers 2: Bloody Halloween – Decisive Battle” promises an unforgettable cinematic experience. Brought to you by Encore Films and distributed by Warner Bros., this film is a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike. Mark your calendars for February 7 and witness the breathtaking conclusion of this epic saga.
Sony’s Spider-Man Universe is about to be revolutionized with the release of “Madame Web”, a film that stands as a beacon of female empowerment in superhero cinema. Gracing the big screens on February 14, this movie promises to enthrall audiences with its unique blend of suspense and superhuman feats.
The Titular Heroine: Dakota Johnson as Madame Web
Dakota Johnson takes center stage as the eponymous Madame Web, a character shrouded in mystique and power. Her portrayal of Cassandra Webb, a Manhattan paramedic with potentially clairvoyant abilities, is poised to redefine superhero roles.
A Stellar Ensemble Cast
Joining Dakota are Sydney Sweeney, Isabela Merced, Celeste O’Connor, and Tahar Rahim. Each actor brings their unique flair to this tapestry of interconnected destinies, making “Madame Web” not just a movie, but an experience.
A Story Weaved in Suspense
At the heart of “Madame Web” lies an origin story unlike any other. Directed by S.J. Clarkson and penned by Claire Parker & Clarkson, with a story by Kerem Sanga, the film unravels the life of Cassandra Webb. Confronting her past, she connects with three young women, each on the brink of their powerful destinies, as they navigate a perilous present.
The Creative Visionaries
Lorenzo di Bonaventura‘s production prowess, combined with an exceptional screenplay and direction, promises a cinematic journey that’s both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
A Rendezvous with Destiny
“Madame Web” is not just a movie; it’s a celebration of strength, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of destiny. Distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, this film invites you to connect and be part of its story with the hashtag #MadameWeb.
