Blog

  • Rom-com Research? Check! Buff Bod? Check! The Cast of “Anyone But You” Spills on Prep for Their Roles

    As 2024 heats up, get ready to be swept off your feet by the charming ensemble of Anyone But You. Directed by Will Gluck, this romantic comedy brings together a stellar cast, including Sydney Sweeney (Euphoria) and Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick), who share an inside look at their journey in bringing their characters to life. Sweeney and Powell play romantic enemies Bea and Ben, respectively, who have to put aside their personal vendettas and pretend to be a head-over-heels couple in order to keep the peace at Bea’s sister’s wedding. The film also stars Alexandra Shipp, Darren Barnet, Hadley Robinson, Dermot Mulroney, Rachel Griffiths, Michelle Hurd, Bryan Brown, Charlee Fraser, Joe Davidson and GaTa. 

    Buffing Up for the Big Screen

    Glen Powell, known for his role in “Top Gun: Maverick,” dives into the unexpected challenge of baring it all in “Anyone But You.” As Ben, he shares, “I didn’t realize how naked I would be [in the movie].” “I knew it was a rom-com, which meant I should stay away from the beer for a bit. But I didn’t expect to be this naked, this often. I kept weights and resistance bands in my trailer that I would break out on certain days, just to keep everything looking good.” To tackle the rom-com physique, Powell traded his beer for weights and resistance bands, creating an impromptu gym in his trailer. Who knew a rom-com could double as a fitness challenge?

    From Tasmania to Sydney: A Workout in Kmart

    Joe Davidson, playing the boyfriend vying for attention, faced a unique challenge. Just out of Tasmania, he received a call for an audition with Gluck in Sydney. The catch? He needed to be “big and strong.” Davidson, in a classic underdog move, concocted a quick workout in a Kmart. “It said specifically in the email that Beau must be big and strong, and I’d just spent a few weeks in Tasmania traveling around, so I wasn’t in peak physical condition at all,” recalls Davidson. “I headed up to Sydney and went into a Kmart, grabbed two dumbbells, and started a little workout. I did sit-ups, and everyone was like, ‘What’s this guy doing?’ I did a 30 min Kmart workout, then headed in for my audition.” Dumbbells, sit-ups, and a 30-minute Kmart workout later, he strutted into the audition. Talk about turning Tasmania travels into an impromptu workout routine!

    1.113.5 1.113.5 1113.3 r 2

    Polyglot Pete: GaTa’s Multifaceted Prep

    GaTa, the actor/rapper from “Dave,” delves into his role as Ben’s lively best friend, Pete. Gluck’s challenge led GaTa to learn Mandarin, Arabic, and the art of driving on the “wrong” side of Australian roads. “What attracted me to playing Pete was that he is lively in spirit and cultured,” GaTa says. “I had a lot of preparation, and shout out to Will Gluck for challenging and pushing me as an actor. I learned Mandarin and Arabic, and how to drive on the wrong side of the road in Australia. It was dope to be able to put those into my repertoire.” A shout-out to Gluck for pushing GaTa’s boundaries and adding these unexpected skills to his repertoire. Who knew a rom-com could turn into a language and driving lesson?

    Onscreen Chemistry and Sisterly Bonds

    Hadley Robinson (Little Women, Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty), playing Bea’s sister Halle, found her inspiration in her onscreen sibling, Alexandra Shipp’s Claudia. Their characters’ connection onscreen mirrored the camaraderie off-screen. Robinson gushes about Shipp’s infectious energy and readiness, creating a chemistry that resonated both in front of and behind the camera. “Alex made me smile every time I looked at her,” says Robinson. “She showed up with this great energy, always ready to go. Every single day at pickup, she’d stick her head out of the car window and say: ‘Let’s go, let’s do it!’ Halle and Claudia’s relationship is sweet and very special, and we have good chemistry.” Who wouldn’t want a co-star like that?

    DF 03133 03015 rv2

    Rom-Com Wisdom from the Veterans

    The younger cast members had the privilege of learning from rom-com legends Dermot Mulroney and Rachel Griffiths, who portray the parents, Leo and Innie. To set the mood, the cast gathered for a rom-com marathon, including the ’90s classic “My Best Friend’s Wedding.” Powell recalls Mulroney’s sage advice: “After we watched it as a cast,” recalls Powell, “Dermot looked at me and said, ‘Take this job seriously and take every moment seriously, because the beauty of being in a rom-com is, you represent love to people. Don’t take that lightly, because if you can represent love to people in movies, that’s the most beautiful thing you can do.”

    Behind-the-Scenes Boss: Sydney Sweeney

    Executive producer Sydney Sweeney took charge not only in front of the camera but also behind the scenes. Her preparations included curating the perfect team, convincing Gluck and Powell to join the project. Sweeney highlights Gluck’s quirky brilliance and Powell’s multifaceted charm, “I was really, really excited to work on this project with him… He is so quirky in his own way. I love it.” A boss move from a leading lady who knows what it takes to make a rom-com shine. Of Powell, she says, “Glen is handsome, charming, funny, talented, and thoughtful. He’s also an incredibly loyal friend and a true pro.”

    Anyone But You, distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, opens in cinemas January 17. #AnyoneButYou

    Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

  • SaladStop!’s Saikō Warm Protein Bowl is Back

    SaladStop!, a pioneer in transforming healthy eating into a delightful experience, enters the new year with a burst of flavors and wholesome goodness. With a decade-long commitment to quality and innovation, SaladStop! has become synonymous with nutritious yet comforting menu options.

    The Return of Saikō

    To kickstart the year, SaladStop! is thrilled to announce the return of Saikō, a Japanese-inspired protein bowl that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. As a part of the brand’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Saikō stands as a testament to their dedication to delivering unique, delicious, and health-conscious options.

    5 1

    A Saikō Surprise

    Feast your palate on a deliciously satisfying meal that fuses the textures and tastes of quinoa, romaine, red and white cabbage, carrots, pickled daikon, edamame, mandarin oranges, and furikake, topped with Teriyaki Dressing that adds an irresistible umami kick. Bursting with health benefits, this bowl is a protein powerhouse, heart-healthy, nut-free, and free from added sugars. It’s a win-win for the body and the spirit!

    1 1

    Originally launched as a seasonal bowl in July 2023, Saikō quickly became a fan favorite. SaladStop! is thrilled to bring Saikō back, this time as part of the Daily Bowls Exclusives menu.

    2 1

    Get to know the Exclusives

    Indulge in a culinary adventure with SaladStop!’s exclusive creations, a tantalizing lineup available only through the Daily Bowls platform. These distinct offerings are not part of their regular store menu – from the ever-popular Cauli-fornia Dreamin’ to the exotic Yam Thai and refreshing favorites like The Refresher, our Exclusives promise to redefine your salad experience with each delightful bite.

    4 2

    Available exclusively for Friday deliveries as part of every Daily Bowls subscription plan, these Exclusives invite you to savor new tastes and textures that go beyond the ordinary.

    Subscribe to Better You

    Embark on a journey to a Better You with Daily Bowls by SaladStop! Visit saladstop.pickup.ph for daily deliveries of your favorite SaladStop! Signatures, including specially-crafted exclusive bowls. Choose the 3-day subscription (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) to kickstart your health journey or the 5-day subscription (Monday to Friday) to complement your personal wellness plan.

    To celebrate the return of Saikō, SaladStop! is offering a 15% discount on all Daily Bowls subscriptions. From today until January 21, 2024, use promo code SAIKOYEAR at checkout and embark on a year of wellness with SaladStop!

  • HBO Asia Original Series ‘The Accidental Influencer’ Premieres Exclusively on HBO GO February 10

    Warner Bros. Discovery today announces the premiere of new HBO Asia Originals Taiwanese comedy drama, The Accidental Influencer. Revolving around the unexpected twists in the life of an ordinary woman following her breakup, the 13-episode series debuts with its first three episodes on Chinese New Year, February 10 exclusively on HBO GO.

    HBO GO The Accidental Influencer Ep 1 Shu Yao Kuo

    Directed by Pei-Ju Hsieh, The Accidental Influencer follows the life of Red Ho, a Taiwanese who dreams of owning an apartment and marrying her boyfriend as she hits a major milestone, her 30th birthday. However, her hope for a perfect life is dashed when she is suddenly dumped by her boyfriend on her birthday. Things get worse when she discovers who her boyfriend left her for. Heartbroken, Red makes an unconventional emotional decision to resign from her stable job while her friends attempt to distract and encourage her to move on. Now jobless and at a loss, Red turns to social media to air her grievances and is met with a surprising outcome, where she rediscovers her independence and embarks on an unexpected journey.

    “We’re delighted to collaborate with Each Other Films to bring this new local HBO Asia Originals series to life. Pairing a stellar homegrown cast with modern, relatable storytelling, The Accidental Influencer will resonate not only in Taiwan, but across our Southeast Asia territories and beyond.” said Magdalene Ew, Head of Content, Streaming, APAC at Warner Bros. Discovery.

    “Each Other Films are incredibly excited to announce the premiere of The Accidental Influencer on HBO GO with Warner Bros. Discovery. With past successes in local comedies and a fantastic line up of award-winning creatives, cast and an inspiring local Taiwanese story, we believe audiences will fall in love with this series as much as we loved creating it!” said Jacqueline W. Liu, Executive Producer, Each Other Films, Inc.

    HBO GO The Accidental Influencer Ep 2 Shu Yao Kuo

    Inspired by a true story of a Taiwanese blogger, ‘SHOWON’, The Accidental Influencer features Golden Horse Award-winner, Shu-Yao Kuo (Step Back to Glory, Teenage Psychic) as Red Ho, Aviis Zhong (Iron Ladies) as Vivian Lee, Ke-Fang Sun (Little Big Women) as Clara Wang, and Ken Lin (Acting out of Love) as Shucheng Liang and a supporting cast which include Golden Horse Award-winner Ray Chang (Eternal Summer) as Chihming Chou, Golden Bell Award-winner Yao Chun Yao (The Mirror, Copycat Killer) as Jay Luo and Yi-Ti Yao  (The Gangs, The Oscars, and The Walking Dead) as JC Yu.

    HBO GO The Accidental Influencer Ep 3 Yi Ti Yao Wei Chung Wang

    Produced by Each Other Films, Inc., the creative team behind the highly successful award-winning Taiwanese film Little Big Women, The Accidental Influencer is directed by Pei-Ju Hsieh (Hello Ghost!, More Than Blue: The Series) and is executive produced by Jacqueline W. Liu (Little Big Women, End of Summer) and Tiffany Yu-Chia Chen (Little Big Women). 

    The Accidental Influencer will also be available to stream on Max in the U.S. on February 10.

    Stream or download The Accidental Influencer from February 10, exclusively on HBO GO. Subscribe to HBO GO online at https://www.hbogoasia.ph/ or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store for only ₱1,190 on the 12-month plan. Or access HBO GO via Cignal, Globe and Skycable. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality. 

  • Aurora Music Festival Clark 2024 Promises To Be Bigger, Reveals Massive Two-Day Lineup!

    If you’re craving that awesome energy, great live music performances from your favorite artists and amazing company from your buddies, it’s time to prepare for another awesome weekend extravaganza filled with fun and unforgettable AURORA atmosphere!

    mainposter2@4x

    It’s happening once again at Clark Global City on April 6-7, 2024, promising a weekend filled with pulsating beats, incredible performances, and a breathtaking display of more than 20 hot air balloons. After the massive success of the only OPM Music Festival that tours Clark, Cebu, and Davao, rest assured to get supreme enjoyment and a festival atmosphere that you will cherish forever.

    This year, expect nothing but the best OPM lineup. Aurora Music Festival Day 1 will feature sensational acts SB19, Moira Dela Torre, December Avenue, Juan Karlos, Adie and Cup of Joe. Meanwhile, it’s time to rock out on Day 2 because it’s set to be equally spectacular with performances by icons Rico Blanco, Parokya ni Edgar, Kamikazee, Orange & Lemons, Itchy Worms  and Andrew E.

    venue map@4x

    More than 20 hot air balloons will paint the Clark sky, creating a stunning backdrop to the musical festivities. Attendees can look forward to a mesmerizing display that adds a touch of magic to the entire weekend.

    Come and be part of this unparalleled celebration of music, culture, and adventure at Clark Global City in cooperation with Clark Development Corporation and The Medical City Clark. Produced by EPIC EVENTS, EGGSTOP, and MR. MACCHIATO, and proudly presented by the FWD Insurance, Official Insurance Partner. The festival is a celebration of the vibrant OPM (Original Pilipino Music) scene, featuring an outstanding lineup of artists over two days. 

    TICKETS NOW ON SALE!

    Visit our website for tickets https://ticket.epiceventsph.com/
    Visit www.smtickets.com and all SM Tickets outlets and via Shopee https://shopee.ph/aurorafestival

    For inquiries, please call 09674911488, 09670960373 or message our Official Facebook Page at @ClarkHotAirBalloonFestor @ClarkAuroraFest

  • The Newest Acne Treatment Retinoid Molecule is now in the Philippines

    If you’ve ever felt self-conscious about your acne, you are not alone! Did you know that acne is the most common skin disease in the Philippines? It affects over 17 million people, young and old. Acne can be painful and embarrassing. It can impact self-esteem, relationships, and happiness, especially in teens. 

    PRODUCT LAUNCH

    Clinical studies found that more than 50% of people with facial acne also had chest, shoulder, and back acne. Patients invest time and money in hygiene habits and treatment products.  The good news is that overcoming acne is possible with the proper treatment and starting it EARLY.

    It is important for patients to seek treatment from a board-certified dermatologist for safe and effective prescription options like the newest retinoid innovation – Trifarotene cream.

    It is an innovative topical single-agent retinoid cream proven safe and effective for acne on the face, shoulders, and back. Trifarotene cream contains the retinoid molecule, which helps the skin replace its old skin cells at a faster speed, exfoliating away the old cells in the process and preventing new acne from forming. Trifarotene works by specifically targeting the retinoic acid receptor gamma (RAR-y), the most prevalent receptor in the skin, to reduce inflammation and target the important factors that cause acne.

    Trifarotene is the first new retinoid molecule to receive FDA approval for treating acne in over 25 years. It offers both dermatologists and acne patients a safe and effective prescription acne medication for the face, back, chest, and shoulders.Galderma, a world leader in developing innovative and safe dermatologist-approved skincare solutions, now brings Trifarotene to the Philippines market.  The same company gave the world well-loved brands like Cetaphil, Benzac, and Restylane, among many others. With the addition of Trifarotene to its portfolio, the company further cements its claim as one of the most innovative dermatologist-recommended skincare-focused companies in the world today.

    GALDERMA EXECOM

    Galderma Execom (from left to right: Khen Kon- Head of Medical JPAC, Barby Razon-Buenaventura- Brand Manager Philippines, Jade Ponoc, Rajeev Chavda-Head of Global Medical Affairs – Prescription, Luke Lee- JPAC Business Unit Head- Prescription, Ferdinand Roxas- General Manager, Philippines)

    Trifarotene will only be prescribed by duly licensed healthcare practitioners, primarily dermatologists, and is recommended for patients 12 years and older.

    About Galderma

    Galderma, the world’s largest independent global dermatology company, was created in 1981 and is now present in over 100 countries with an extensive product portfolio to treat a range of dermatological conditions. Galderma is a leader in the research and development of scientifically-defined and medically-proven solutions for the skin. Partnering with health care practitioners around the world to meet the skin health needs of people throughout their lifetime, the company aims to change the way the world thinks about skin health. For more information, please visit www.galderma.com.

  • MOVIE REVIEW: Studio Ghibli does it again: ‘The Boy and the Heron’ marvels and inspires with a personal tale of grief and loss

    When watching a Studio Ghibli, you are somewhat assured of stunning visuals and a fantastical story filled with inherent symbolisms. Hayao Miyazaki, the renowned Japanese filmmaker is back after ten years with ‘The Boy and the Heron,’ a semi-autobiographical coming-of-age story set in the era of the Pacific War. While the film is magical and mysterious, there is a heavy, pervasive sadness that grounds this movie, as the story keeps at its center the main’s character sense of loss and grief for their dead mother. It is the beating heart of this lusciously drawn animated feature.

    ‘The Boy and the Heron’ is the story of Mahito, who loses his mother during a fire in the middle of the Pacific War. He then moves to the countryside with his father and his new wife, Natsuko, the younger sister of Mahito’s mother. As the young boy copes with his new environment – a large home the size of a castle, bullies at school, a host of nosy, elderly women helping around the house – Mahito struggles resolving his feelings for Natsuko, who is pregnant with his soon-to-be-sibling, and the grief he still carries for his mother.

    It is at his most vulnerable when Mahito discovers that the heron living near the grounds is inviting him to explore an abandoned, locked up tower in the woods. At first, the heron is mysterious and mystical, capable of speech and other fancy tricks. But later, it takes on a more sinister approach, and even revealing human teeth. When Mahito finally gives in to the lure, in efforts to find Natsuko, who has gone missing in the woods, he finds himself in a fantasy world where birds can take human form and speak, where the oceans are cursed, and beings who command fire exist.

    The Boy and The Heron poster

    There are quite a few parallelisms found in ‘The Boy and the Heron’ with Hayao Myazaki’s life – the loss of his mother, the point-of-view of a world filled with strife and conflict, amongst others – that there is a heaviness to the film that keeps the tone dark and melancholic, despite the sheer beauty of the film’s visuals. The film is not without its share of whimsy, including cute characters like a warawara, that can float into the sky by inhaling deeply. The film is also filled with birds of various breeds and when they flock around a character, that character is filled with bird poop. It has no real effect on the plot but it’s just a sense of visual whimsy that pulls against the sadness that anchors this film.

    Because what is truly pushing the story forward is Mahito’s grief for his mother but also his determination to reconcile his emotions with Natsuko. More than his relationship with the heron, who becomes his guide in the fantasy world, it’s his relationship with both Natsuko and the fire being, Lady Himi, that sets the tender and beating heart of this film.

    photo The Boy and the Heron film

    What is great about ‘The Boy and the Heron,’ aside from the sheer beauty of its design and art is how the story does not dawdle or feel like it needs to explain itself to the audience. There are things that happen in the film that are never justified nor picked apart and it is perfectly fine. The connection between the fantasy world and the real world is tenuous and unexplored but it is also not a necessity to know. There is a confidence in the world and world building of Hayao Miyazaki that allows you to just accept what is given narratively and you just take it because it makes sense.

    a scene from The Boy and The Heron

    Practically a legend, the renowned filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki still manages to dazzle and impress even in his latest outing. ‘The Boy and the Heron’ is a film that will leave you breathless with wonder and invites you to marvel at the power of creativity and dreams. The score by Joe Hisaishi is splendid and creates incredible melodies that can sometimes contrast a scene, creating a rich texture to the story as it unfolds. It is surprising at every turn and while it has an air of sadness and weight, it never wallows in it. It manages for whimsy and even humor while still delivering a lovely adventure that crosses time and space. Studio Ghibli has, since 1985, delivered gorgeous, animated movies that inspired and marveled audiences from around the globe and ‘The Boy and the Heron’ is just another continuation of that legacy. There are threats that this film may be Hayao Miyazaki’s last, and if it were, what a way to go.

    My Rating:

    stars 5 0


    The Boy and the Heron is now showing. Check screening times and buy tickets here.

  • New “Mean Girls” Opens at No. 1 in the U.S. with a Fetch $30.5-M

    We’re making fetch happen again! Mean Girls is the homecoming queen of the US box office with an estimated opening weekend gross of US$30.5-million, enough to slay the competition for the No.1 spot. The teen movie will debut in Philippine cinemas on February 7.

    A refreshing musical take based on the 2004 hit classic, Mean Girls arrived at the top supported by a slew of positive reviews, earning a Certified Fresh rating over at Rotten Tomatoes.

    The New York Times praises the film in its review, writing,“[I]ts charms and ingratiating likability remain intact,” as The Washington Posts likewise approves, “There’s lots of fun to be had, in a show that rhymes nonplussed with calcu-lust. And yet, like its predecessors, this Mean Girls has bite.”

    MGM JW 0422 29380R

    IGN commends Tina Fey on the newest adaptation of the film, “If there’s anything that the third iteration of Mean Girls should teach us, it’s this: “In Tina Fey We Trust.” It’s the rare talent who can take their own beloved adaptation of a nonfiction bestseller, turn it into a successful Broadway musical, and then translate that back to screen as its own thing.”

    Finally, Chicago Tribune raves, “It embraces, with trace elements of sincerity, the juicy, comic extremes of mean-girldom.”

    MGM JW 0422 29001R

    About Mean Girls:

    From the comedic mind of Tina Fey comes a new twist on the modern classic, MEAN GIRLS. New student Cady Heron (Angourie Rice) is welcomed into the top of the social food chain by the elite group of popular girls called “The Plastics,” ruled by the conniving queen bee Regina George (Reneé Rapp) and her minions Gretchen (Bebe Wood) and Karen (Avantika). However, when Cady makes the major misstep of falling for Regina’s ex-boyfriend Aaron Samuels (Christopher Briney), she finds herself prey in Regina’s crosshairs. As Cady sets to take down the group’s apex predator with the help of her outcast friends Janis (Auli’i Cravalho) and Damian (Jaquel Spivey), she must learn how to stay true to herself while navigating the most cutthroat jungle of all: high school.

    Mean Girls is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures International. Connect with #MeanGirls  and tag @paramountpicsph

     Photo & Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”

  • Survival of the Fittest: ‘Badland Hunters’ Starring Don Lee – A Post-Apocalyptic Thrill Ride

    The cinematic landscape is on the brink of a thrilling evolution with the upcoming release of “Badland Hunters.” This film, a remarkable collaboration between acclaimed director Heo Myeong-haeng and international action icon Don Lee, is set to redefine the standards of action cinema. Known for his dynamic roles in “Train to Busan” and Marvel’s “Eternals,” Don Lee is ready to captivate audiences worldwide.

    A Glimpse into the Future: The Setting and Story

    “Badland Hunters” plunges viewers into a post-apocalyptic Seoul, a city now a shadow of its former self, ruled by chaos and survival instincts. Don Lee embodies the character of “Nam San,” a formidable hunter in this lawless world. Alongside Lee Hee-jun, Lee Jun-young, Roh Jeong-eui, and An Ji-hye, the film weaves a narrative of resilience and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.

    The Trailer: A Promise of Unrelenting Action

    The film’s trailer, a masterpiece in its own right, tantalizes viewers with snippets of intense action sequences and a riveting plot. It sets expectations for a cinematic journey that masterfully combines visceral combat with an enthralling storyline, promising a spectacle for action aficionados.

    Badland Hunters Main KA

    Visuals and Themes: The Heart of ‘Badland Hunters’

    “Badland Hunters” isn’t just about the adrenaline-pumping action; it’s a visual odyssey through a world ravaged yet strangely beautiful. The film’s aesthetics paint a picture of desolation and raw nature, encapsulating the essence of a world where survival is a luxury and alliances are fleeting.

    Premiere Details and Expectations

    Mark your calendars for January 26, 2024, as “Badland Hunters” makes its exclusive global debut on Netflix. This film is more than just a movie; it’s an experience that promises to leave viewers on the edge of their seats, redefining what it means to be a hunter in a world where the only rule is to survive.

  • Machiavellian Korean Drama ‘The Impossible Heir’ Debuts Exclusively on Disney+ in February

    When the illegitimate son of a Korean conglomerate owner partners with his ambitious childhood friend, the duo will stop at nothing to seize their place at the top of the societal food chain in The Impossible Heir – a ruthless revenge drama coming this February exclusively to Disney+.

    The Impossible Heir 1

    Born into an impoverished single parent household with nothing but his good looks and charm, Kang Inha is ravenous for success. Determined to make something of himself, no matter the cost, Inha discovers that his father is the chairman of the hugely successful Kangoh Group and leaves his life of poverty behind. Shunned by the rest of his new family, Inha partners with his intellectually gifted friend Han Taeoh, hatching a plan from a young age to take over the company and seize their spots at the top of society. Realizing success early on, the pair steadily begin their ascent until an equally ambitious woman with a similarly troubled past threatens to derail their plans forever.

    Starring Lee Jaewook (Alchemy of Souls, Extraordinary You) as Han Taeoh, Inha’s sharp-minded childhood friend; Lee Junyoung (Mask Girl, D.P.) as Kang Inha, the illegitimate son of the chairman of the Kangoh Group, and Hong Suzu (Lovestruck in the City, Be;twin) as Na Hyewon, an ambitious woman with a troubled past and aspirations of a bright future, The Impossible Heir is written by Choi Won (Roman Holiday) and is directed by Min Yunhong (Missing: The Other Side, Insider).

    Stream The Impossible Heir starting this February exclusively on Disney+.

    X: @DisneyPlusPH
    Instagram: @DisneyPlusPH
    Facebook: @DisneyPlusPH
    TikTok: @DisneyPlusPH
    Hashtag: #DisneyPlusPH

    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.

  • Nicholas Cage Goes Meta in ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent’, Coming to Lionsgate Play

    What happens when Nicholas Cage morphs into a fictionalized, unhinged version of himself? Answer: Tom Gormican’s hilarious action-comedy, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. The film by Lionsgate Play portrays the character of “Nick Cage” as a creatively unfulfilled actor on the brink of financial ruin. When Nick gets invited to appear at superfan Javi’s (Pedro Pascal) birthday party in exchange for $1 million, things get intense – just like Cage’s best movies always do. Cue CIA operatives recruiting him to spy on said superfan, shootouts, high-speed car chases, and Mexican standoffs. 

    Still 7

    Cage lives up to his legend status in Unbearable Weight – channeling his iconic on-screen characters and even going through a “Cagedom” shrine of props and costumes that signify the actor’s storied career. It immerses the audience in nostalgia, precisely what Director Tom Gormican aimed for when he created a movie that’s “an homage to [Cage’s] body of work.”

    Talking about why he chose to create a film about Cage, Gormican says, “Nicolas Cage is unbelievably talented and can do any genre. You’ve seen him in romantic comedies like Moonstruck. You’ve seen him in comedies like The Family Man. You’ve seen him in dramas. You’ve seen him in avant-garde films like Mandy and Wild at Heart. You’ve seen him in big tentpole franchises, action movies like Con Air and Face/Off and National Treasure. There are very few actors that can do every genre equally well, who can switch from comedy to drama – sometimes within the same project – and that’s fascinating to me.”

    Still 2

    Gormican adds: “Nick has become something that transcends being an actor. He’s become a cultural figure. As culture gets stranger and stranger and fashion choices get more outlandish, you can trace a direct line back to the patron saint of strangeness, Nicolas Cage. Just seeing his face makes people happy. That’s really interesting and made me want to dig in further and find out who he actually is.”

    Meanwhile, Cage revealed that he was initially reluctant to participate in the movie since he “had no interest in playing himself.” But when he read the script and understood Gormican’s vision, reluctance turned into excitement.

    Still 1

    On what drew him into agreeing to Gormican’s intriguing and off-kilter ideas, Cage says, “I call Tom ‘The Mind’ because the film really is his fantasy, culled from perceptions in the media and on the internet, as well as blips in my personal life that have gone public. It’s mixed with knowledge of interviews I’ve done and things that have always interested me and drew me down this path. Essentially, the film is an imagination based on Tom’s interpretation of what my life might be like.”

    Still 6

    Watch Nicholas Cage perform yet another iconic role on The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, streaming exclusively on Lionsgate Play on PLDT Home on January 19.

    Credits:

    • Directed by: Tom Gormican
    • Written by: Tom Gormican & Kevin Etten
    • Produced by: Nicolas Cage, Mike Nilon, Kristin Burr p.g.a., Kevin Turen
    • Cast: Nicolas Cage, Pedro Pascal, Sharon Horgan, Ike Barinholtz, Alessandra

    Mastronardi, Jacob Scipio, Lily Sheen, with Neil Patrick Harris, and Tiffany Haddish

    Official synopsis: Nicolas Cage stars as… Nick Cage in the action-comedy The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. Creatively unfulfilled and facing financial ruin, the fictionalized version of Cage must accept a $1 million offer to attend the birthday of a dangerous superfan (Pedro Pascal). Things take a wildly unexpected turn when Cage is recruited by a CIA operative (Tiffany Haddish) and forced to live up to his legend, channeling his most iconic and beloved on-screen characters to save himself and his loved ones. With a career built for this very moment, the seminal award-winning actor must take on the role of a lifetime: Nick Cage.