In more ways than one, the pandemic was a lifechanging and gamechanging experience for people all over the world. While some chose to barricade themselves at home, others saw it as an opportunity to try something new.
There were those who sewed fabric face masks or began experimenting in the kitchen—remember those trays of sushi bake and ube cheese pandesal that small enterprisers sold on social media?
Photo shows Participating artists from Ace of Art; Sa Gitna ng Kawalan by Box Populi; Events are Impersonal & Indifferent by Gary Montenegro; Fusion, Immersion, The Light Unto My Path by Shine Vitto
Unable to perform before audiences, hip-hop artist Jhomar “Jhoms” Lim founded a Facebook group that he dubbed Filipino Artists, Collectors and Enthusiasts (ACE) of Art. As a child growing up, he developed a sense for the visual arts as he participated in different art activities in school and in church. His interest later expanded to include the performing arts in college which led to his becoming a professional dancer and theater actor. Jhoms has continued to paint and focuses on realistic depictions of flora, fauna and food.
In the span of two years and with the help of the page’s admins and moderators, ACE has grown into a community with over 20,000 followers. In its aim to “bring people together through art by providing harmony and a sense of pride with every artist’s creation,” ACE of Art is holding a group exhibit at ARTablado at Robinsons Galleria until November 2.
The theme “Pagsibol: Tawag sa Pag-asa” was chosen to focus attention on the continued growth and development of Filipino artists despite the hardships brought about by the pandemic.
“With every endeavor, Ace of Art aims to present beautiful art collections from a mix of the group’s varied but unique-styled artists whom one can be proud of to present locally and internationally,” the group said in a statement.
The ongoing exhibit features paintings as well as sculptures and mixed media. Some of the featured talents include steampunk artist Ferdinand Sanchez who incorporates metal art into wood, resin, fiberglass as well as Paete’s traditional crafts. Instead of metal, he sometimes uses recycled materials like old toys and gadgets to accessorize his works.
JL Timbreza-Siao is a baker, carpenter, and web and graphic designer who combines her skills to produce her pieces. Riyadh-based Joseph Cabugos is an architect whose hobby is crafting miniature versions of the iconic jeepney, many of them made almost entirely of scrap material.
Shine Vitto was one of the “100 Female Artists of the World” featured on the billboard at Times Square in New York last July 2023, and is known for her hyperrealism portrait of an old woman smoking tobacco titled “Mensahe Patungo sa Lumikha” which garnered a million views and thousands of reactions on social media.
This is ACE of Art’s second ARTablado exhibit; the first was staged in ARTablado at Robinsons Antipolo. The group returns because, according to Jhoms, “the venue shines a light on the different artists who now have a chance for their innate talents to be recognized.”
The participating artists include: Box Populi, Rey Adolfo, Juvy Teope Mago-Abne, JL Timbreza-Siao, Eleanor Oberio, Alexander Balmaceda, Jessa Velonero, Phia Elizalde, Willet Esquilona, Joseph V. Cabugos, Angie Lazaro, Yana Orais, Yek Herrera, Vovoi Lim, Jully Lim, M. Sta. Maria, Maribel Cortez, Jhomar Lim, Sunnyfae Macaraeg, Anne Margaret Villanueva, Ferdinand Sanchez, Mark Villanueva, Gigi Manalastas, Konica Faustino, Nathaniel Umale, Bernadette de Leon, Shine Vitto, Don Verano, Row Bean Paz, Jonna Fe Adraque, Emmanuel dela Cruz (Ibonman), Art Wang Gonzales, Gary Montenegro, Ramon Cajipe and Ameer Catandihan.
Established in 2020, Robinsons Land ARTablado, a portmanteau of “art” and “entablado” is Robinsons Land’s very own stage in showcasing the Filipino ingenuity and creativity. This platform allows emerging and established artists to freely express themselves through art and paves the way to greater recognition of their talent and hard work. To date, ARTablado has mounted numerous exhibitions and hosted over 400 artists.
Hold onto your golden tickets, folks! The enchanting world of Willy Wonka is ready to open its gates once more. This time, though, it’s a younger, dreamier version of the chocolate maestro, played by none other than Timothée Chalamet. And, oh boy, are we in for a treat! Wonka is set to premiere in Philippine cinemas on December 6.
Roald Dahl’s enchanting tales have always held a special place in our hearts. And now, inspired by Dahl’s celebrated “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” Wonka offers us a fresh, vibrant take on how the ingenious inventor and chocolate-maker became the iconic Willy Wonka. Picture this: a young Willy, bursting with creativity, passion, and the drive to sprinkle magic in every corner of the world. Ah, sounds dreamy, right? With a dash of whimsy, a pinch of emotion, and heaps of heartwarming moments, this film promises to be an unforgettable cinematic treat!
Behind the Magic
Paul King, the genius behind “Paddington,” directs this marvel, with a screenplay co-penned with Simon Farnaby. Hats off to the production trio David Heyman, Alexandra Derbyshire, and Luke Kelly for bringing this chocolate dream to life!
A Star-Studded Affair
Our chocolate prince, Timothée Chalamet, is joined by a galaxy of stars! From Calah Lane to Emmy winner Keegan-Michael Key, and the delightful Rowan Atkinson (yes, Mr. Bean himself!), to the radiant Oscar winner Olivia Colman—this film has got the crème de la crème of the acting world. And trust us, the list goes on!
Don’t forget! Mark those calendars for December 6 and be the first to indulge in this choco-fantasy. Brought to the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, Wonka is one spectacle you don’t want to miss.
Engage with fellow choco-fanatics and hop onto the #WonkaMovie buzz. Let the chocolatey chats begin!
Singer-songwriter Lukas Graham is set to perform live in Manila on October 22, 2023 at the New Frontier Theater.
On October 22, Lukas Graham will be joined by fellow Universal Music artist, Juan Karlos, whose song, “Ere”, recently made history as the first Filipino song to appear on the Spotify Global Chart.
Lukas became one of the first 25 acts to enter Spotify’s Billions Club. To this day, the official music video for ‘7 Years’ has more than 1,4 billion views on Youtube while the Billion Club-hit is closing in on 2 billion streams on Spotify.
When Lukas Graham writes a song or goes on stage, it’s ultimately about giving hope, joy and comfort – about creating celebration, community and dreams and new shared memories on the long road of life. Watch him perform live and experience it for yourself.
Lukas Graham’s concert in Manila will really be a night to remember. Promoted by Midas Productions and KDR Music House. Tickets at ticketnet.com at 4925 (VIP) / 4175 (Orchestra) / 4070 (Loge) / 3655 (Balcony 1) / 3105 (Balcony 2). Tickets are currently on sale.
Heads up, film fanatics! A battle-scarred spectacle is storming the silver screen. Say hello to Ridley Scott’s latest masterpiece, Napoleon, with the magnetic Joaquin Phoenix leading the charge!
Joaquin Takes The Throne
Joaquin Phoenix is back, and dare I say…more powerful than ever? Ridley Scott’s new trailer for Napoleon just dropped, and it’s a feast for the eyes. Paired alongside the equally captivating Vanessa Kirby as Josephine, this one’s gonna be a cinematic ride. Mark the date – November 29. And it’s hitting IMAX too.
From battlegrounds to palace intrigues, Napoleon takes you on an exhilarating journey through the life of the legendary French Emperor – Napoleon Bonaparte. And who better than Oscar® maestro Joaquin Phoenix to breathe life into such an enigmatic character? The film’s essence? It’s Napoleon’s insatiable hunger for power, intertwined with his tempestuous romance with Josephine, set against mind-blowing battle sequences that will make you grip your armrest. Classic Ridley Scott, right?
The Brains Behind the Battle
With the legendary Ridley Scott at the helm, and David Scarpa weaving the screenplay magic, you’re in for a rollercoaster of emotions. The producing ensemble? Ridley Scott, Kevin J. Walsh, Mark Huffam, and yes, Joaquin Phoenix himself!
Coming to a Theater Near You
Gear up for a cinematic journey like no other! Napoleon launches in cinemas come November 29. Big shoutout to Columbia Pictures, the Philippine arm of Sony Pictures Releasing International, for bringing this epic to our shores.
Don’t forget to join the conversation with #Napoleon. Let the cinematic discussions begin!
Terrifying and brutal, South Korean suspense/thriller ‘Target’ is at its most scary when it’s focused on how vulnerable we are once our private information is no longer private. There’s an ingenious way by which director Park Hee-kon manages to highlight how interconnected the whole world has become through the internet. It opens with SMS exchanges over shots of the city, showing the constant contact people have with strangers for a variety of things. In this movie, the highlight is on the buying and selling of second-hand goods.
Soo-hyun (Shin Hae-sun) is at a difficult time in her life. She’s being harassed by her boss and she’s balancing an architectural project while moving to a new place simultaneously. When a washing machine she buys second-hand through an online market ends up being defective, she takes her anger out on the seller and informs all his other potential customers to not buy anything from the scammer. A heated exchange on text with the said buyer sends Soo-hyun into a scary, crazy world of internet violence.
The scammer is no ordinary scammer, and he tracks down Soo-hyun’s information and begins to terrorize her. First, he sends food delivery to her doorstep repeatedly from various restaurants. Then from these frustrating and time-consuming pranks, it gets more sinister and insidious as time goes by. The helplessness of Soo-hyun is on full display here and the inability of the police to trace down and track this sort of criminals is also put into the spotlight.
‘Target’ is actual thin on story. A lot of what happens in the film is just to showcase the relentless barrage of the scammer on Soo-hyun’s world. He threatens her work, her sanity, and even her own physical safety. At the beginning, we see her strong and fighting back but as the terror increases in size, frequency, and scope, we even see her whittle down to a broken mess. This is where Shin Hae-sun shines. In Korean dramas like ‘Mr. Queen’ and ‘See You in my 19th Life,’ we’ve seen her tackle complex roles with ease. She has excellent comedic timing and can carry off improbably characterizations so well. To see her play a character working in primordial emotional states – fear and anger – is a different thing altogether. She is so committed to each scene and each moment that is enhances the fear factor of the dramatic situation.
Rounding out the narrative is that of the police detective (Kim Sung-kyung of ‘Moving’ and ‘Reply 1988’) who feels powerless in being unable to help Soo-hyun. The number of cases that are on his lap and lack of resources bears down on him. He wants to do things by the book but as he sees the growing danger that Soo-hyun is in, you can see how it affects him by the increase in violence he takes on suspects and the like.
Everything here is interconnected and by doing so, the film really highlights are interdependence on each other. It is filled with, “If only this character did this…” or “if that character did not do that…” and it escalates all because of it. The film reminds us about how much we live on our phones and on the internet and the full range of dangers that could happen if ever this information goes to the wrong hands.
On the onset, just knowing your name, phone number, and address can already present a lot of problems, but as the film shows, so much more is available for abuse with a person who is a little more skilled in the areas of cyber security. The situations that are present in the film are based on actual police cases and when all of these are placed within the confines of one movie, it can be a little over-the-top and unrealistic (but it does create a very enjoyable yet terrifying time in the cinema). It’s even brough into the extreme as murder is added along for the ride.
Unlike other South Korean crime and suspense/thriller films that I’ve seen, ‘Target’ takes a more Hollywood approach to the story. It manages to navigate the story breaking down all of Soo-hyun’s strength, bringing her to her most fragile, and then reclaiming that strength back to attempt to fight back. It’s a very commercial approach to the movie and marks the filmmaker’s own judgment on people such as the scammer in his film. By doing so, the film loses a bit of its own teeth but it’s frightening, nonetheless.
This will be a great date movie with friends or a partner. The tension would be a great bonding experience and there were even some emphatic screams and shouts in the cinema when I saw it. It’s a great conversation starter and will really make you think twice about your cyber security.
My Rating:
Target is now showing. Get your screening times and tickets here.
The cinematic masterpiece, “Killers of the Flower Moon,” has garnered immense attention for its gripping portrayal of dark historical events. As the 20th century began, the Osage Nation stumbled upon a fortune in the form of oil, propelling them into the limelight of wealth. However, this boon became a bane as white interlopers, lured by the Osage’s prosperity, employed sinister means to exploit them, leading to an unsettling chain of events. At the heart of this narrative is the tender romance between Ernest Burkhart (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Mollie Kyle (Lily Gladstone). Supported by eminent actors like Robert De Niro and Jesse Plemons, and directed by the iconic Martin Scorsese, this film adapts David Grann’s acclaimed book, intertwining love, deceit, and historical intrigue. If you’re among the curious minds yearning for a deeper understanding of the intricate layers that make this movie a standout, you’re in luck. We’re about to unfold 10 enthralling facts that will cast “Killers of the Flower Moon” in an even more intriguing light!
1) Unearthing History: The Making of “Killers of the Flower Moon”
“Killers of the Flower Moon” emerged from the profound storytelling of acclaimed author and investigative journalist, David Grann. His knack for reviving forgotten histories came to the forefront yet again with his 2017 book, serving as the movie’s foundation. This true American tale, set in the 1920s, doesn’t just recount the greed-fueled exploitation and harrowing injustices suffered by the wealthy Osage Nation at the hands of white opportunists. It also marks a pivotal moment in U.S. history, chronicling the inception of the FBI.
Grann’s narrative caught the attention of Leonardo DiCaprio, leading to a passionate collaboration with director Martin Scorsese. Despite Scorsese’s busy schedule, the potential for this story to be his unique take on a “western” fueled his commitment. Drawn to the genre since childhood, Scorsese saw “Killers of the Flower Moon” as an opportunity to delve deeper into real history, rather than repeat traditional myths. His approach? To create a film that wouldn’t just narrate but would inspire dialogue about America’s past and its ongoing impact on the present.
2) Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon”: From FBI Procedural to Personal Betrayal
Initially centered on FBI agent Thomas Bruce White Sr. as the hero, Scorsese and Roth’s adaptation of David Grann’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” underwent a significant transformation. Following concerns about perpetuating a “white-savior” narrative, the filmmakers found their emotional core in the complicated relationship between Ernest Burkhart and his Osage wife, Mollie, turning the narrative from a straightforward investigation to a deeply personal story of trust, love, and betrayal. This pivot was sparked by an informal script read that left DiCaprio questioning where the story’s heart lay. Their solution emerged from the real-life court transcripts and Grann’s retelling of the Osage murder trial, focusing on Burkhart’s chilling testimony of his role in the conspiracy against his wife’s family, orchestrated by his own uncle for financial gain.
This pivot wasn’t just a storytelling choice, but a reflection of the filmmakers’ dedication to truth and representation. Leonardo DiCaprio, who was deeply involved in the project, expressed the importance of capturing the Osage perspective, a sentiment echoed by Grann himself. Instead of just being another crime story, the movie evolved into a haunting exploration of personal dynamics set against a backdrop of cultural and economic exploitation. Scorsese, known for his character-driven films, found the story’s heart in the intricacies of human relationships and the corrosive nature of greed, ensuring that the adaptation was both captivating and culturally sensitive.
3) Leonardo DiCaprio and Lily Gladstone’s Deep Connection to “Finding Killers” Casting Choices
Leonardo DiCaprio’s portrayal of Ernest Burkhart was deeply influenced by the Osage community, shedding light on the actor’s dedication to authenticity. Similarly, the selection of Lily Gladstone as Mollie was not just a casting choice, but a nod to the importance of representing indigenous voices. Her Native American heritage and experiences brought layers of depth to the character and the story as a whole.
This emphasis on genuine representation and character depth didn’t stop with the film’s leads. Martin Scorsese, a master at crafting layered narratives, ensured that every character, from major to minor, had depth and dimension. Robert De Niro’s role as William “King” Hale echoes this, presenting a character not easily boxed into the conventional dichotomy of hero and villain. De Niro’s Hale is depicted as a multifaceted individual, reflecting the complexities of real-life figures. Furthermore, the film’s decision to cast established actors like John Lithgow and Brendan Fraser in seemingly smaller roles demonstrates the narrative’s commitment to storytelling richness. Every character, no matter how small, adds to the film’s intricate tapestry, painting a vivid picture of a historically significant era and the intertwining lives within it.
4) Embracing Authenticity: How Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” Intertwined with the Osage Nation
In an unprecedented move of cultural immersion and respect, Martin Scorsese, in his preparation for “Killers of the Flower Moon,” involved the Osage Nation at every stage of production. The film was shot on location in the Osage reservation, incorporating insights and personal stories from the community to ensure a truthful representation of their history. Notably, the cast featured over 44 Osage actors, with key roles filled by Native Americans, affirming the film’s commitment to authenticity.
Beyond the on-screen representation, Scorsese’s production set a new benchmark for behind-the-scenes inclusivity and cultural engagement in filmmaking. The production team’s dedication extended to hiring Osage artisans, craftspeople, and consultants who contributed significantly to various departments of the film. The involvement of the Osage was not just ceremonial but integrative, with individuals like Osage artist Addie Roanhorse playing a pivotal role in production design, and cultural consultant Julie O’Keefe influencing the wardrobe department, ensuring cultural accuracy and respect were woven into the film’s very fabric. Furthermore, the engagement with the Osage language program demonstrated a profound commitment to linguistic authenticity, with native speakers coaching the cast in the language that would resonate throughout the drama. This deep collaboration signified a broader move towards not just telling stories about indigenous communities, but actively inviting them to participate in the storytelling, creating a narrative that’s not only compelling but also culturally truthful and respectful. This collaborative spirit culminated in a poignant land blessing ceremony attended by cast, crew, and the Osage community, underscoring the deep mutual respect and commitment to telling this impactful story with the reverence it deserves.
5) The Magic of Set Design with Jack Fisk
For the production of “Killers of the Flower Moon,” legendary production designer Jack Fisk, known for his expertise in constructing outdoor sets, faced the challenge of recreating 1920s Fairfax on Osage land. The modernization and wear of the original town over the years posed challenges, but an opportunity arose when the Osage Nation bought land in Pawhuska, planning to transform it into a parks and recreation area. After obtaining permission, Fisk built a train station on this land, complete with twelve hundred feet of track and an authentic locomotive.
In addition to his remarkable contributions to the film’s setting, Fisk’s approach to set design goes beyond mere visual appeal; it’s a complex, multi-layered process aimed at narrative enrichment. His commitment to historical accuracy is evident not just in the grandeur of the main sets, but also in the intimate spaces the characters inhabit. Every home, office, and marketplace was a deliberate construct, reflecting the lifestyles and cultures of the Osage people during the 1920s. Fisk’s dedication extended to covering a street with dirt to enhance the western feel of the setting, a testament to his attention to detail and deep respect for historical veracity.
Moreover, Fisk’s emphasis on character-driven design — influenced by his unique perspective as the spouse of an actress — ensures that every set serves as a backdrop that informs and complements the character development and plot progression. His collaboration with Scorsese was not just about building sets; it was about creating a world rich with history and nuance, offering audiences not just a glimpse into the past but an immersive experience that connects them to a profound, shared human story. This deep, narrative-focused approach to set design highlights how integral Fisk’s work is to the storytelling magic of “Killers of the Flower Moon,” blending meticulous research with an understanding of character and story to create a compelling visual narrative.
6) Unique History of the Osage Nation: Ownership and Wealth in Early 20th Century America
One compelling fact that stands out from the history of the Osage Nation is their unprecedented economic autonomy and wealth, particularly in the context of Native American history. The Osage people are notably the only Native American tribe to have purchased their reservation — located in what is now Oklahoma — using their own funds in the 1870s. This autonomy extended to their savvy negotiation with the U.S. government in the early twentieth century, ensuring collective ownership of mineral rights, specifically oil, discovered on their land.
These mineral rights, which were fiercely negotiated to benefit the Osage people as a collective, resulted in significant oil royalties, catapulting the tribe to among the wealthiest groups globally during that era. This wealth was so vast that it led to the establishment of a government-mandated Guardian System, intended to “assist” the Osage in managing their newfound resources. Unfortunately, this system became rife with corruption, leading to large-scale financial exploitation of the Osage people. Their determined efforts culminated in the 1925 congressional act that restricted the inheritance of headrights, ensuring that they remained within the Osage community. This showed their resilience in maintaining their cultural and economic integrity amidst external pressures. Today, the story of the Osage serves as a powerful reminder of the need for economic autonomy, vigilant oversight over systemic frameworks, and the persistent fight against exploitation. Their journey, from buying their own land to navigating the treacherous waters of wealth and exploitation, serves as an enduring testament to their spirit and determination.
In the cinematic realm, where tales are often a blend of fiction and reality, “Killers of the Flower Moon” doesn’t just bring with it a cast of stellar actors and a legendary director, but a profound historical narrative that beckons us to reflect on America’s past. This film is more than a cinematic experience; it’s an invitation to acknowledge and discuss the often-overlooked chapters of American history, a chance to engage with the stories that shape our present. Whether you’re a cinephile, a history buff, or someone who loves a well-told story, this movie is a must-watch, promising not only top-tier entertainment but also important education and discourse. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this crucial cultural conversation.
Epic in scale and scope, ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ is another sweeping story from legendary director Martin Scorsese that highlights the relationship of crime and American history. Much like his earlier masterworks like ‘Gangs of New York,’ ‘The Irishman,’ ‘Casino,’ ‘Goodfellas,’ ‘’The Irishman,’ and the like, ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ is a study of the inner worlds of the people who’ve turned crime into their lifeblood. Based on the nonfiction book of the same name by David Grann, Scorsese takes his time to build a world at the turn of the century in America when the Native American tribe of Osage found oil in their lands and made them extremely wealthy overnight. It changed the landscape of that part of America, but it also brought in the white people who did everything they could to take that money for themselves.
At 206 minutes, Scorsese takes his time to introduce us into a world that we never get to see on cinema – a world where Native Americans were rich and powerful, wearing expensive clothes and jewelry while being served by white people – by putting into film, he cements this actual occurrence in history into an image we can carry with us after seeing the movie. By taking this narrative and putting it on the big screen, he highlights how in the 1920s, the white people were envious at the richness and power of the Native Americans. He introduces us to Ernest Burkhart (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), a war veteran, who seems like he is never the smartest man in the room. He returns home to the ranch of his uncle, William King Hale (Robert De Niro), who takes him in and helps him get a job as a driver.
Within the first hour of the movie, Scorsese drills into us this universe. On one hand, the Osage people are wealthy but due to government policy, they need guardians to access their wealth and stigma and discrimination just hovers over the boundaries. William King Hale sells himself as a friend of the Osage people, but he likes to set up his men to marry the Osage women with the hopes of becoming a part of the will so that they can take the land if anything happens to their wives. It just so happens, Osage people are dying left and right and oftentimes, with no investigation.
And in the middle of all of this, Ernest falls in love with one of his regular clients, Mollie (Lily Gladstone). Mollie, with her sisters and aging mother, owns a huge property with a lot of oil and is one of Hale’s targets to acquire that land. He leverages Ernest’s and Mollie’s feelings to get his hands on the property and this is the crux of the film.
On one hand, this movie is exposing the lengths by which the white people have come to take what belongs to the Osage people and how it was protected by members of the government as it became a battle of the whites versus the Native Americans. On the other hand, it is also a cruel and brutal love story between a dumb, impressionable white man and his Native American wife, whom he doesn’t really realise he’s hurting in a huge, huge way.
Scorsese uses the film’s epic running time to really lay the groundwork to show the complex relationship between his three lead characters: DiCaprio, De Niro, and Gladstone. The push and pull of these characters against one another is what makes this movie so powerful because in the backdrop of it all is the metaphor of America’s history left bare for us to criticise and challenge.
This is immense work from DiCaprio and De Niro. They are in fine form and working the multiple layers of their characters with ease. Gladstone is also luminescent. Mollie is silent but strong and oftentimes her character is still, taking it all in, and in later scenes, feels very strongly as tragedy hits her again and again. She stands on her own with her two Oscar winning co-stars and will probably deservedly earn an Oscar nomination herself.
Unfortunately, Scorsese finds more interest in telling the story through the eyes of Ernest and leaves Mollie as the least developed character amongst the three. By choosing Ernest as the film’s point-of-view, he highlights the witless and unconscious act of destruction of the lives of the Osage people and makes this the point of the story. If it were Mollie’s movie, it would highlight the struggle against that destruction.
But I feel that Scorsese is out here to judge and criticize. He does not romanticize or glorify Hale or Burkhart’s actions. They are as reprehensible as they appear to be on the film. Scorsese doesn’t shy away from that. By doing so, he questions the idea of America’s greatness by amplifying the narrative of how this greatness was built on the robbing of the land and culture of the Native Americans.As a director, Scorsese has done a wide range of incredible films from ‘Age of Innocence,’ to his love letter to cinema in ‘Hugo,’ to his meditations on religion and faith in movies like ‘Silence’ and ‘The Passion of Christ.’ But it’s his films that delve into the dark soul of America like ‘Gangs of New York,’ ‘The Wolf of Wall Street,’ ‘The Irishman,’ ‘Casino,’ and even ‘The Departed’ that I feel is also an area of expertise on his part. The way by which he chronicles those lives and times and explores the factors that made America the way that it is. ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ joins that pantheon of films and will be one of his many, many accomplishments when one decides to look at his filmography.
Welcome to another exciting week of cinema as we unveil the latest movies hitting the silver screen today. Whether you’re in the mood for “Killers of the Flower Moon,” a gripping historical drama, “Deep Fear,” a heart-pounding thriller, “Five Breakups and a Romance,” a modern love story, “Love Reset,” a memory-resetting romantic comedy, or “Target,” an intense Korean action, this week’s lineup has something for every film enthusiast. Here’s a sneak peek at the films you can catch:
Unearth the chilling mystery that unfolds in 1920s Oklahoma when oil is discovered beneath Osage Nation land. As the Osage people are hunted down one by one, it’s up to the FBI to crack the case.
Join a solo voyage aboard a yacht that takes a terrifying twist. A woman encounters drug traffickers in dire straits, clinging to a sinking boat with kilos of cocaine below shark-infested waters.
Prepare for a heartwarming love story starring Alden Richards and Julia Montes. Their journey explores the intricate balance of love and ambition, as they navigate the complexities of modern relationships.
Experience a romantic comedy as ‘Roh Jeong-yeol’ and ‘Hong Na-ra’ find themselves amidst a mysterious accident erasing their memories, just 30 days before their marriage ends. Love and laughter ensue as they piece together the fragments of their shared past.
Delve into the dangerous world of online second-hand shopping in this Korean action thriller. Starring Shin Hae-Sun, Kang Tae-Oh, and Kim Sung-Kyun, the film explores the real dangers of online scams through compelling and realistic characters.
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. There’s no shortage of exciting films to check out this week. From new releases to ongoing hits, there’s a movie for everyone. So gather your friends, pick your favorite flick, and enjoy a spectacular movie-going experience. Have a great time at the movies!
2023 will soon be over and everyone’s already looking forward to the holidays. Many have been raring to fly off somewhere to celebrate the end of the year, but there may be some who still need a little help planning and choosing where to go.
What better way to figure out your year-end vacation destination than with the help of Google Flights? Whether you want to go where the people are or you want to know which spots to steer clear of in favor of the less-beaten path, Google Flights has the important data you need–namely, the top 10 places Filipinos have been searching for and booking trips to.
Here’s the list:
Top 10 year-end destinations on Google Flights
Tokyo, Japan
Singapore
Hong Kong
Caticlan
Osaka, Japan
Bangkok, Thailand
Seoul, South Korea
Kalibo
Taipei, Taiwan
Cebu
Once again, Japan tops the list of most-searched destinations, with travelers from the Philippines looking at choosing the country as their top choice. Within Japan, Tokyo leads the way, while Osaka takes the 5th spot. Looking at the list, it would suggest that on top of trips within the Philippines, most are thinking of traveling within Asian countries.
Better, savvier traveling with Google
Flights don’t come cheap, but if you want to save money this year-end season, or any time of the year, a little bit of planning can go a long way. Most of the time, it’s better to book early but flight prices can fluctuate, and often there are bargains to be found.
On Google Flights, you can already see whether current prices for your destination are low, typical, or high compared to past averages for the same routes. It also takes it to the next level, having added a feature where it lets you know when it’s the cheapest time to book based on your chosen dates and destination.
Aside from Google Flights, there are other ways to get help with your travel planning. Here are a few more features you can use:
● Bard: Google’s Bard AI is like talking to a virtual travel agent that’s personally helping you. You can ask it to help create an itinerary that’s uniquely yours, pulling data and info from all over the web. Just don’t forget to double-check things personally before you start booking.
● Immersive Landmarks in Maps: If you’re going somewhere like Japan, you can learn more about the spots you’ll be visiting before you go. Search for a landmark like ‘Tokyo Tower’ in Google Maps, tap “immersive view” then get a sense of the surroundings, and use the handy slider to see when it will be raining or how crowded it is at different times of the day.
● Google Lens: See something the locals are eating and want to find out more? You can snap a photo and use Lens in the Google app to search for it. Want to have a try? Multisearch can help – add ‘near me’ to your search and find nearby restaurants serving that dish.
● My Ad Center: Here’s one you might not think of but buyers’ remorse is real. With airlines, hotels and credit card companies running promotions, avoid missing a deal by tuning your ad preferences. Choose to see more or fewer trending ad topics to surface relevant ads or for something specific, you can adjust your brand preferences.
Now that you’ve got some inspiration, it’s not too late to make your travel plans. From Bard, to Flights and Maps, Google tools can help you on every step of the trip.
Who better than Hollywood’s own adrenaline junkie, Keanu Reeves (of “John Wick” & “The Matrix Resurrections” fame) to lead us on this high-octane journey? Not only does he host this sizzling series, but he’s also its executive producer!
An Underdog’s Tale like No Other
Oh, the thrill of F1 racing! But Ross Brawn’s 2009 venture was no ordinary race. Competing in the world’s most elite racing series, with limited resources, budget, and manpower, he faced staggering odds. The most jaw-dropping part? He took over a team for a mere £1! And then, the magic unfolded. Racing against industry giants, this plucky, independent team emerged as World Champions! How’s that for an underdog story?
Ross Brawn
The Voices of Victory
Dive deep into this legendary F1 season with intimate insights from the legends themselves: Ross Brawn, Jenson Button, Nick Fry, Rubens Barrichello, and Christian Horner. Experience the jubilations, the heartbreaks, and the sheer grit from the racetrack to the boardroom.
A Golden Ticket to the F1 Archives
Gearheads, brace yourselves! This series unlocks the treasure trove of the F1 archives. Relive those iconic moments, some never before seen on screen, as British F1 ace Jenson Button and maestro Ross Brawn lead the charge to victory.
Jenson Button and Keanu Reeves
The Dream Team Behind the Scenes
Brought to you by North One production and steered by showrunner Simon Hammerson, this series is fueled by the creativity of BAFTA-winner Neil Duncanson and the impeccable direction of sports documentary ace, Daryl Goodrich. And with Keanu Reeves in the driver’s seat, expect nothing but cinematic brilliance.
Disney+: A Galaxy of Stories
Beyond this racing marvel, Disney+ promises a universe of riveting tales. From Disney’s magic to Marvel’s might, Star Wars’ galaxies to National Geographic’s adventures, Pixar’s fantasies to Star’s dramas—there’s something for every binge-watcher. Dive into a world of stories, from “Welcome to Wrexham” to “David Beckham: Save Our Squad”, and discover tales you love and new ones waiting to captivate you.
Jenson Button and Keanu Reeves
Ready, Set, Stream! Get those popcorn buckets ready! All episodes of Brawn: The Impossible Formula 1 Story race onto Disney+ on 15 November 2023. It’s a ride you won’t want to miss!
