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!
In celebration of Ramen Nagi Philippines’ 10th anniversary, the first Limited King Ramen was a remarkable collaboration between Ramen Nagi and Ramen No. 11. This exclusive ramen, available from September 29 to 30 at the One Bonifacio High Street branch and later from October 6 to November 10 nationwide, featured a fusion of culinary artistry from both establishments.
This limited-edition ramen combined homemade noodles with ingredients such as cabbage, bean sprouts, quail eggs, garlic, and Buta, resulting in a harmonious interplay of flavors and textures. The soup was meticulously crafted with simmered bones, pork, and aromatic vegetables, offering a mild yet flavorful broth that left you savoring each sip. Chef Masa-san of Ramen No. 11 brought his award-winning skills to create a tender and rich braised pork (buta).
Now, let’s move on to the exciting introduction of the second Limited Kings Ramen as part of Ramen Nagi’s 10th-anniversary celebration.
Meet ANTCICADA and Chef Yuta-san
ANTCICADA, a Tokyo-based award-winning fine dining establishment in Nihonbashi, is anything but conventional. Led by visionary Chef Yuta, who boasts over two decades of entomophagy experience, the restaurant is at the forefront of innovative gastronomy. Yuta’s intimate coexistence with thousands of insects has transformed him into a passionate advocate for integrating these fascinating creatures into our culinary repertoire, fostering innovation, conducting workshops, and more.
With a background that includes a stint at the prestigious Michelin Star restaurant “Yotsuya Uemura,” Yuta brings a unique blend of innovation, flavor, and tradition to the culinary landscape. His signature creation, the “Cricket Ramen,” shatters traditional boundaries by introducing crickets as a central ingredient. This distinct approach has earned ANTCICADA acclaim in the Japanese culinary scene, lauded for their pioneering work in seamlessly integrating crickets into their creations.
The Cricket Ramen Experience
The concept of entomophagy, or the consumption of insects, has been steadily gaining traction worldwide. It’s a notion rooted in sustainability, as insects pose fewer environmental concerns compared to heavily farmed meat sources. In fact, many countries across the globe have already embraced insects as a regular part of their diets, recognizing the myriad benefits they offer.
Now, when you savor the Cricket Ramen, you’re not just indulging in a culinary masterpiece, but you’re also seeing insect cuisine through a new and sustainable lens. This refined ramen boasts a remarkable balance of flavors, offering a golden blend of saltiness and sweetness. It features a generous slab of chashu pork, perfectly grilled menma (fermented bamboo shoots), and, in keeping with its name, every component is infused with the essence of crickets.
From the dashi broth to the soy sauce base and even the noodles, which bear tiny specks of powdered Futahoshi crickets, every aspect of this dish embraces the unique essence of insects. This one-of-a-kind ramen features two domestic cricket species, with up to 160 crickets used per bowl. The robust, savory flavor of the Futahoshi cricket is beautifully complemented by the refinement of European cricket species. While the crispy and nutty fried cricket topping may initially challenge some diners, its unique texture and flavor are certain to surprise and delight those who dare to try it. ANTCICADA’s Cricket Ramen stands as a bold redefinition of culinary boundaries, inviting you to explore the remarkable potential of insect-based cuisine within the confines of a beautifully crafted dish.
The Cricket Ramen will shine during a special two-day kitchen takeover event on October 20-21 at Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City, with a maximum of 150 bowls served per day. This limited culinary showcase is made even more exceptional as Ramen Nagi proudly presents Chef Yuta as a distinguished guest chef at the kitchen takeover, personally crafting his visionary dish for discerning patrons.
But wait, there’s still more!
Ramen Nagi X Ramen No. 11’s outstanding Limited King Ramen is quickly earning its place as a fan favorite, and we’ve just introduced you to the upcoming launch of the unique cricket ramen. However, our gastronomic journey is far from complete. With one more Limited King Ramen set to be unveiled in the coming days, the excitement continues to build. Then, on Ramen Nagi’s 10th anniversary on December 13, another extraordinary Limited King Ramen will take center stage, making the celebration truly special.
A Toast to Ramen Nagi Philippines’ 10th Anniversary
10 years in any industry is a big achievement. For Ramen Nagi Philippines, reaching this milestone required staying true to its history as an innovator—shaking up the palate with unique flavors and cultural fusions—while being grounded by what it wants to offer: comfort, value, and flavorful memories.
Erickson Farillas, the visionary behind Ramen Nagi Philippines, puts it this way, “In the last 10 years, the iconic red Ramen Nagi bowl saw many unique ramen experiences, but always the same last scenario: an empty bowl and smiling faces. I believe we got here because we understand that ramen is not just food; it’s an experience, a work of art. It must celebrate tradition and also push boundaries. Do this, then you will go far.”
Celebrating a decade of culinary excellence, Ramen Nagi’s journey has just begun, and we are fortunate to be part of this delicious ride.
Content creators and celebrities often share their daily dose of comical skits, life hacks, and shopping ‘budols.’ But aside from spreading entertainment, some of them also took immediate action to help protect netizens’ hard-earned money from being stolen through fun and educational videos.
Top social media stars partnered with leading finance super app GCash to help spread awareness on e-wallet phishing scams, one of the most rampant cybercrimes in the country.
Joshua Garcia and the different e-wallet phishing scams
GCash endorser Joshua Garcia takes the helm in spreading awareness in social media, sharing how e-wallet phishing scams could come in the form of 1) fake portals in non-PAGCOR accredited gambling sites, 2) fraudsters who claim to be from GCash saying your account is on hold, and 3) fake rewards.
Spotting the red flags with Saab Magalona, Chinkee Tan and Ayn Bernos
Red flags are warning signs that may indicate unhealthy relationships, but they also extend to every day, seemingly-harmless messages that might end up as scams. Through witty yet educational skits and reminders, singer-podcaster Saab Magalona, financial guru Chinkee Tan, and writer-entrepreneur Ayn Bernos, also shared three red flags that could help users spot each of the e-wallet phishing scams.
Kaladkaren and Direk Tonet and the wrong kinds of ‘karupukan’ and ‘budol’
Winning big through online games might seem like a good life hack to earn additional money, but TV host Kaladkaren shares why non-PAGCOR sites are literally ‘budol’ – where you can end up losing money instead of earning more. Meanwhile, it seems that filmmaker-podcaster Direk Tonet Jadaone already knows that a lot of Filipinos remain ‘marupok’ and oblivious to red flags when it comes to relationships. However, she reminds everyone in her video: “Alam kong mahilig kang ma-fall, pero wag sa scam.”
Davao Conyo and the oversharer’s worst nightmare
Oversharing, including your personal information such as Mobile Personal Identification Number (MPIN) and One-Time Password (OTP), can lead to dire consequences. Davao Conyo, known for making related comedic skits, shares in his video every self-confessed oversharer’s greatest fear.
Pipay on why ‘TMI’ is never a good thing
Everyone has that one ‘bida-bida’ friend. Social media personality Pipay recreates this scenario as a third wheel, ultimately reminding netizens why sharing too much information is never a good thing, especially when it’s your personal information at stake.
AC Soriano and staying secure under pressure
Dubbed the ‘multi-dogshow superstar’ for impersonating celebrities, AC stages a ‘fast talk’ segment to remind us not to share our sensitive information such as MPIN and OTP even when put under pressure.
Spot Red Flags, Don’t Overshare
As different content creators showed, it is important to be constantly aware of phishing scams as cybercriminals have been increasingly creative to remain unsuspicious. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Think before clicking a link. Review the sender and the content of a suspicious message even before responding or clicking on the link. If you are being offered rewards or prizes, backtrack if you have indeed joined a program or raffle and verify with the company through another channel. Remember that GCash will never send links via SMS, email and messaging apps, so never click on links claiming to be from GCash.
Only transact through your GCash app. GCash will never ask you to activate your account through a phone call or through messaging applications. All transactions are only done through the official GCash app, including resolving concerns related to your account. If a notice feels rushed, it’s most likely a phishing scam! Check your account through the GCash app first to confirm if it is indeed on hold and don’t share your MPIN and OTP to anyone – even those who claim to be from GCash.
Carefully read the text messages that come with an OTP. If you receive an OTP through text message, make it a habit to read the entire message and make sure that it matches the request you made. If you did not make the request or if it is different from what you want to do, do not enter your OTP on any site or send it to anyone, to make sure you are not unknowingly linking your account to another device.
Never share your OTP and MPIN. Never provide your personal information if you did not initiate a request. As a rule, don’t provide sensitive information, such as your OTP and MPIN, even to your family, friends and other people claiming to be representatives of banks, companies, service providers, and government agencies. Remember that GCash will never ask for these details from you.
As trusted e-wallet apps like GCash work to ensure that the tools we use for our everyday financial transactions are fortified with security measures, it is also essential that e-wallet users play their part in keeping their personal information safe and out of reach by cybercriminals. As all of the content creators remind netizens, whatever the circumstance, never share your MPIN and OTP!
If you encounter any phishing scams or suspicious activities targeting your GCash account, report them immediately. You can do this by visiting the Official GCash Help Center or messaging Gigi on the website, and simply typing, “I want to report a scam.”
Grab Philippines officially reintroduces its pet-friendly mobility service GrabPet, giving pet parents better access to safe, reliable and convenient transportation as they move about with their beloved furry, feathered, or even scaly companions.
GrabPet, as a specialized on-demand service, is designed to help passengers ferry their pets to various destinations, including veterinary clinics, groomers, pet-friendly cafes, and more with just a tap of a button. Initially available in select areas of Metro Manila, GrabPet-ready driver-partners are all set to onboard dogs, cats, turtles, hamsters, rabbits, and fish on rides.
To ensure top-notch transportation for GrabPet passengers, animal-loving driver-partners with spacious six-seater vehicles were purposefully tapped for the GrabPet fleet, even undergoing comprehensive training in handling pet-related bookings. All GrabPet rides also come with added insurance to ensure the well-being of the pets on board.
“As a pet parent myself, I understand how challenging it can be for Filipinos to bring their animal companions to essential services and even leisure trips given the limited transportation options available. As an expression of our dedication to addressing the varying transportation needs of commuters, we have launched GrabPet. It is our firm belief that safe, reliable, and convenient mobility services should be accessible to everyone – even families with winged or four-legged friends,” shares Grab Philippines Chief Operating Officer Ronald Roda.
Working Together for Above-Par, Pet-Friendly Rides In a bid to safeguard both the safety and convenience of passengers as well as to preserve the pristine condition of the driver-partners’ vehicles, Grab Philippines has enforced a set of requirements for individuals utilizing the GrabPet service.
● Pets should be accompanied by human passengers. ● Pet owners should also refrain from booking rides for pets with parasites and/or fleas ● Pet owners can bring a maximum of two small and medium-sized pets or one large pet per ride, subject to the discretion of the GrabPet Driver-Partner. ● A maximum of four passengers can accompany the pet(s) during the ride. ● Pets are also required to be in diapers and inside carriers.
Roda adds, “We are committed to ensuring that owners and their pets are safely and conveniently transported to their intended destination while also preserving the integrity of the vehicle of our driver-partners. A driver-partner’s vehicle is their means of livelihood, hence by collaborating with us in maintaining high hygiene and safety standards during the GrabPet ride, pet parents help in making sure that our driver-partners can go about their day worry- and hassle-free.”
For more information and updates on GrabPet, visit this link.
