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  • FILM FACTS: 5 Things to Know About “Cobweb”

    Prepare to step into the shadowy world of “Cobweb,” a film shrouded in mystery and suspense. Before you enter this eerie realm, let’s arm you with some bone-chilling facts about the film.  Uncover five riveting facts about this cinematic enigma that’s set to grip audiences from start to finish.

    1. A Not-So-Imaginary Fear

    “Cobweb” centers on eight-year-old Peter who is tormented by a mysterious, incessant tap-tap from inside his bedroom wall, a sound his parents insist is all in his head. This psychological narrative taps into every child’s fear – the fear of the unknown, the fear of being dismissed, and, perhaps most terrifyingly, the fear of their parents harboring a dark secret. Imagine being in Peter’s shoes—what if you heard the ominous tap, tap, tap every night? How will this chilling plot unfold? You’ll have to brave the film to find out.

    COBWEB Still 5 Large
    Woody Norman as Peter in the Horror/Thriller film, COBWEB, a Lionsgate release. Photo courtesy of Vlad Cioplea.

    2. A Sinister Director’s Vision

    If there’s one thing that distinguishes “Cobweb” from other thrillers, it’s the sinister vision of its director, Samuel Bodin. Rejecting a conventional approach to storytelling, Bodin crafts a world that’s far from normal, teetering on the edge of a chilling dream. He manipulates ordinary elements to evoke unease, painting a world where nothing is as it seems. A house that’s just a bit too large, doors that squeak unsettlingly loud, and an eerily overripe pumpkin patch – all these elements create a tableau that is both familiar and utterly strange.

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    Director Samuel Bodin of the Horror/Thriller film, COBWEB, a Lionsgate release. Photo courtesy of Jun Michael Park

    Anchoring this vision is the central character, Peter, through whose terrified eyes we experience this distorted reality. This childlike perspective adds an additional layer of terror to the narrative, subverting familiar safety and comfort.

    The director also uses clever sound design, using a simple yet haunting tap, tap, tap to drive the narrative and ratchet up the tension. This auditory motif serves as a constant reminder of the lurking horror. Interestingly, Bodin likens the movie to a “dissonant, wobbly nursery rhyme” and a “Halloween joke gone wrong,” cementing its status as a macabre twist on conventional storytelling. 

    3. A Stellar Cast Hailing from Distinct Backgrounds

    The cast of ‘Cobweb’ brings an eclectic mix of talents that infuse the film with riveting performances. Leading the cast is Emmy-nominated Lizzy Caplan, whose diverse acting portfolio spans from dramatic roles to comedic performances. Known for her ability to infuse depth into her characters, she has been praised for her roles in various hit series including “Masters of Sex”, “Castle Rock”, and “Fleishman is in Trouble”.

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    Lizzy Caplan as Carol in the Horror/Thriller film, COBWEB, a Lionsgate release. Photo courtesy of Vlad Cioplea

    In the role of Peter, we have UK-based actor Woody Norman, who has proven his remarkable talent in acclaimed films such as ‘C’mon C’mon’, and ‘The Electric State’. Norman’s authentic and touching performances have already earned him notable accolades such as the London Critics’ Circle Award for Young British/Irish Performer and a nomination for the Critics Choice Award for Best Young Actor/Actress.

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    Woody Norman as Peter in the Horror/Thriller film, COBWEB, a Lionsgate release. Photo courtesy of Vlad Cioplea

    Bringing warmth and kindness to the film is Australian actress Cleopatra Coleman, renowned for her diverse roles in projects ranging from psychological thrillers like ‘Infinity Pool’ to romantic comedies like ‘The Right One’. Her magnetic performance in the Hulu series “Dopesick” was widely praised, cementing her position as a versatile and compelling performer.

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    Cleopatra Coleman as Miss Devine in the Horror/Thriller film, COBWEB, a Lionsgate release. Photo courtesy of Vlad Cioplea

    Finally, adding to the stellar line-up is Antony Starr, best known for his character “Homelander” in the hit series “The Boys”. Starr’s portrayal of complex and intense characters has been critically acclaimed, earning him the Critics Choice Super Awards for Best Actor in a Superhero Series and Best Villain in a Series.

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    (L-R) Cleopatra Coleman as Miss Devine and Antony Starr as Mark in the Horror/Thriller film, COBWEB, a Lionsgate release. Photo courtesy of Vlad Cioplea

    4. A Collaboration of Notable Talents from the 2018 Black List and BloodList

    The screenplay for “Cobweb,” a feature film directed by Samuel Bodin for Lionsgate, was penned by Chris Thomas Devlin. The script earned distinction on the 2018 Black List, a prestigious collection of the year’s best unproduced screenplays, and topped the 2018 BloodList, a compilation of the best original horror scripts. This unique collaboration of talent brought a compelling narrative to the screen, further cementing Devlin’s reputation as a gifted writer in the horror genre.

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    Lizzy Caplan as Carol in the Horror/Thriller film, COBWEB, a Lionsgate release. Photo courtesy of Vlad Cioplea

    5. A Grimm-esque Tale

    Drawing inspiration from the dark and twisted tales of the Grimm Brothers, “Cobweb” creates a menacing aura around Peter’s parents. It’s a twisted tale imbued with a disconcertingly playful tone. At its core, the film is akin to a Halloween joke gone wrong. This twisted tale is filled with disquieting surprises and a creeping sensation of dread, much like biting into a poisoned birthday cake – definitely not for the faint-hearted. The film’s soundscape is crafted to mirror a wobbly, dissonant nursery rhyme. This distorted symphony enhances the unsettling tone of the movie, transforming it into a chilling horror tale.

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    Woody Norman as Peter in the Horror/Thriller film, COBWEB, a Lionsgate release. Photo courtesy of Vlad Cioplea

    Ready to unravel its secrets? “Cobweb“ is set to reel you into a web of fear, uncertainty, and thrill. It masterfully blends the innocent fears of childhood with a creeping, pervasive horror, creating a thrilling journey that will keep viewers guessing until long after the credits roll. So, brace yourself, and prepare to be swept into the spine-chilling world of “Cobweb.” Who knows what you might uncover within the walls of Peter’s house?

  • Red Ginger at City of Dreams Manila Unveils the Art of ‘Wok Hei’ Cuisine

    Red Ginger, City of Dreams Manila’s Southeast Asian bar and bistro puts into spotlight the distinct flavors of “wok hei” with the “Breath of the Wok” promotion available until end of August.

    2 Red Ginger Hak Jiu Seafood wok fried prawns and squid with black pepper sauce
    Served piping hot, Red Ginger’s Hak Jiu Seafood captures the essence of “wok hei”.

    The promotion highlights five piping hot stir-fried dishes that reflect chef de cuisine Sam Kin Hue’s mastery of the fire and wok. Wok hei, which translates to “breath of the wok,” is a cooking method, considered an art and a measure of a chef’s skill that’s perfected through the years. It is characterized by the dishes’ unique smoky and charred flavor that is achieved by cooking fresh ingredients in a wok over searing heat, causing the flavor to develop while simultaneously retaining texture and crunch. Repeatedly stir-frying in small amounts while maintaining the right balance of oil to mix with the water droplets from the vegetables and momentarily tossing the flame in the wok, is the key to a perfect wok hei.

    3 Red Ginger Siu Yuk Noodles wok fried egg noodles with crispy pork belly and fish cake
    Complex in flavor and aroma, the Siu Yuk Noodles is a must-try item.

    The flavors of wok  hei come alive in the Pad Thai Beef (stir-fried rice noodles with beef, tofu, tamarind sauce and peanuts), Mak Pin Chicken (wok-tossed chicken thigh with crispy cereals and curry leaves),Gam Jun Tofu (fried tofu with minced pork), Hak Jiu Seafood (wok-fried prawns and squid with black pepper sauce); and Siu Yuk Noodles (wok-fried egg noodles with crispy pork belly and fish cake).

    1 Red Ginger Chef de Cuisine Sam Kin Hue
    Red Ginger chef de cuisine Sam Kin Hue demonstrates his artistry and prowess of “wok hei” (breathe of the wok) in five stir-fried dishes with distinctive smoky flavors available until end of August.

    Red Ginger is located at the upper ground floor and is open from 11 am to 1 am.

    For inquiries and reservations call 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com. For more information, visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com. Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android. 

  • “Along With The Gods” Director Kim Yong-hwa Presents A Thrilling Space Survival Drama In “The Moon”

    The Moon director believes that Korean film technology has sufficiently advanced to create a distinctiveness from other space-themed films. “I wanted to create a film that not only demonstrates technical excellence but also fulfills emotional depth, believing that Korean cinema has grown enough to set itself apart from many other space-themed films,” he says. 

    In 2022, South Korea’s first lunar exploration spacecraft, the Danuri-ho, took flight, carrying out various scientific missions. With the successful third launch of the Danuri-ho in May this year, South Korea is already making significant progress towards becoming a space power. What makes The Moon special is that “it presents a story that is realistically possible under the technological prowess of Korea,” director Kim shares. 

    Another captivating aspect of The Moon is the intense survival drama built on thorough scientific verification and consultation. It depicts the isolation of astronaut Sun-woo (EXO’s Doh Kyung-soo) in the vast and unknown lunar environment, his determination to complete the mission, and the relentless efforts of former flight director Jae-gook (award-winning actor Sul Kyung-gu) to rescue him. Their solidarity surpasses the 384,000 kilometers between the Moon and Earth. 

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    “The spectacle of the vast universe is intertwined with the story of humanity,” says Sul Kyung-gu of the appeal of the film for him. “It is a movie that gives hope, courage and comfort,” adds Doh Kyung-soo. 

    The Moon, a gripping, emotional, epic-action, and one of Korea’s highly anticipated films of the year, also stars The World of the Married’s Kim Hee-ae. It opens exclusively in Philippine cinemas August 16. It is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #TheMoonMoviePH

  • Unleashing the Scarab: Inka Magnaye Lends Voice for PH Release of “Blue Beetle”

    Warner Bros. Philippines has unveiled an exciting announcement that’s set to thrill Pinoy fans. Filipino voice talent extraordinaire and famed content creator, Inka Magnaye, will lend her voice to the Scarab, an ancient alien artifact crucial to the DC Super Hero’s tale, in the Philippine edition of Warner Bros. Pictures’ eagerly awaited action-adventure “Blue Beetle.”

    BLUE BEETLE ANNOUNCEMENT

    An Alien Guide: The Scarab’s Role in ‘Blue Beetle’

    In the movie, the Scarab, or Khaji-Da, mentors Jaime Reyes, played by “Cobra Kai’s” rising star Xolo Maridueña, helping him understand and manage his newfound, seemingly infinite powers as he transforms into the Super Hero Blue Beetle. The original voice of the Scarab is none other than the multi-talented singer/actress, Becky G.

    A Distinctive Blend: Inka Magnaye’s Charm

    Filipino talent Inka Magnaye – considered to be royalty in the niche voicework industry in the Philippines – brings her own distinct charm to the voice of the Scarab. Some of the character’s lines are even in Tagalog! Something Pinoy fans should look out for.  

    With an impressive portfolio that includes voicework for Philippine Airlines (hers is that very soothing voice in the Philippine flag carrier’s in-flight instructional safety announcement), Pond’s, Smart, Globe, Nissin, Mitsubishi, and the popular podcast “Sleeping Pill With Inka,” Magnaye brings a distinct charm to the Scarab’s character. To the delight of local fans, some lines even feature in Tagalog! She marks history as the first Philippine-based talent to provide voice-over work in a DC film. Keep an eye out for her name in the credits!

    Jaime’s Journey: Becoming Blue Beetle

    The movie “Blue Beetle” revolves around recent college graduate Jaime Reyes (Maridueña) who returns home full of dreams for his future, only to find that everything has changed. As he grapples with his purpose, fate takes a surprising turn when he stumbles upon the Scarab, an alien biotechnological relic. When the Scarab chooses Jaime as its host, he acquires an extraordinary suit of armor with unpredictable powers, drastically altering his life as he morphs into the Super Hero Blue Beetle.

    Witness Inka Magnaye’s captivating performance as the Scarab in “Blue Beetle,” premiering exclusively in Philippine cinemas on August 16.

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    Watch for Inka Magnaye’s turn as the Scarab in “Blue Beetle,” opening exclusively in Philippine cinemas August 16. #BlueBeetle #TeamKhajiDa

    About “Blue Beetle”

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    From Warner Bros. Pictures comes the feature film “Blue Beetle,” marking the DC Super Hero’s first time on the big screen. The film, directed by Angel Manuel Soto, stars Xolo Maridueña in the title role as well as his alter ego, Jaime Reyes. 

    Starring alongside Maridueña (“Cobra Kai”) are Adriana Barraza (“Rambo: Last Blood,” “Thor”), Damían Alcázar (“Narcos,” “Narcos: Mexico”), Elpidia Carrillo (“Mayans M.C.,” the “Predator” films), Bruna Marquezine (“Maldivas,” “God Save the King”), Raoul Max Trujillo (the “Sicario” films, “Mayans M.C.”), with Oscar winner Susan Sarandon (“Monarch,” “Dead Man Walking”), and George Lopez (the “Rio and “Smurf” franchises). The film also stars Belissa Escobedo (“American Horror Stories,” “Hocus Pocus 2”) and Harvey Guillén (“What We Do in the Shadows”). Soto (“Charm City Kings,” “The Farm”) directs from a screenplay by Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer (“Miss Bala”), based on characters from DC. John Rickard and Zev Foreman are producing, with Walter Hamada, Galen Vaisman and Garrett Grant serving as executive producers.

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    A Warner Bros. Pictures Presentation, A Safran Company Production, “Blue Beetle,” in cinemas starting August 16, is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.

    Join the buzzing conversation online using hashtags  #BlueBeetle #TeamKhajiDa

    Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

  • Unleash Your Hue: Immerse into the Vivid of SM Beauty’s Color Play Festival

    Life gets more interesting when it’s painted with color. To spread this spirit of vibrancy, SM Beauty launched the Color Play Festival from July 31 to August 4. The festival provides a kaleidoscopic showcase of their diverse beauty products ranging from makeup and skincare to hair care.

    SM Beauty Color Play Festival 2023 2

    A Splash of Color at the Launch

    The Color Play Festival, an ode to all hues and shades, was inaugurated on July 31 at the SM Mall of Asia Main Atrium. The grand launch, attended by influential content creators, media, and beauty enthusiasts, paved the way for a series of exciting events, games, freebies, and a unique digital beauty pageant.

    A Bounty of Beauty Activities

    Once the curtains were lifted, the festival welcomed the public to a myriad of activities. Exclusive to SM Advantage Card (SMAC) members, the festival hosted a makeover area where attendees could have fun experimenting with new looks. The hair braiding and flower crown area gave lucky customers the chance to enjoy free flower crowns and braids, expertly crafted by professional artists.

    Participating Brand Y.O.U in the SM Beauty Color Play Festival

    The Digital Beauty Pageant: ‘Create Beauty’

    As an engaging feature of the Color Play Festival, SM Beauty rolled out a digital pageant aimed at promoting their range of products. The pageant centered around the theme of ‘Create Beauty,’ inviting participants to upload their most spectacular Coachella Festival look across social media platforms. All they need to do is include the hashtags #SMBeauty and #ColorplayFestival2023 in their caption.

    Participating Brand NARS in the SM Beauty Color Play Festival

    The entries will be evaluated based on Makeup, Hairstyle, Originality, and Engagement (likes, comments, shares). The top 10 winning entrants can look forward to exclusive hair and makeup, skincare, and other SM Beauty products.

    Participating Brand LOreal in the SM Beauty Color Play Festival

    More Exciting Attractions: Ferris-Win and Photobooth

    The Color Play Festival, in its festive spirit, offers a “Ferris-Win” gondola and a photobooth. Customers stand a chance to win a myriad of SM Beauty products with Ferris-Win. They can also capture fun moments with friends and family in the photobooth. All it takes to enter the contest is to purchase any variant of SM Beauty lipstick and show proof of purchase.

    Check out BTLAs beauty products and deals

    A Beauty Bonanza from Top Brands

    SM Beauty’s Color Play Festival brings together renowned brands, including MAC, NARS, Drunk Elephant, Shiseido, LOOK At Me, Tsubaki, Extra Care/GOT2B, Tressemme, L’Oreal Hair, Liese, Hairfix, Y.O.U, QuickFX, Barenbliss, Dazzle Me, Flormar, BYS, KISS New York, Maybelline, Happy Skin, Shiseido, Drunk Elephant, BLK, Chic Bobbie, LA Girl, Vice Cosmetics, and Issy & Co. Be it a new luscious lipstick, a rejuvenating facial cream, or a vibrant eyeshadow palette, the festival has it all.

    Flaunt Your Coachella Festival Look With SM Beauty

     On July 29, there were also lip balloons and pop sockets in selected SM Department Stores.

    Check out SM Beautys Color Play Festival That Launched Last Monday July 31

    Go to your nearest SM Beauty Store or shop online at ShopSM  from July 31 to August 4 and enjoy big discounts on a wide variety of beauty products. Visit “Color Play Festival” at the SM Mall of Asia Atrium until August 4 and create beauty with colors.

  • New Movies This Week: Cobweb, Meg 2: The Trench, and more!

    Happy Wednesday, movie lovers! Our favorite day of the week has rolled around once more, a new wave of cinematic masterpieces is all set to hit your nearest theaters. If you’re into exploring the dark corners of the mind, “Cobweb” is your ticket, while “Meg 2: The Trench” will reel in those craving an adrenaline-pumping aquatic adventure. For those seeking a touch of local drama, don’t miss “Sa Kamay Ng Diyos,” and if you’re up for a thought-provoking narrative, “Soft & Quiet” should be your pick. Plus, for an animated adventure with Doraemon: Nobita’s Sky Utopia,” bring along the whole family! With such an eclectic mix, there’s a film for everyone’s liking. So find your perfect movie match and settle into those cinema seats, because an exciting lineup of films awaits you!

    COBWEB

    2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 27 mins
    HORROR, THRILLER
    BUY TICKET

    Are you ready to jump out of your seats? “Cobweb,” the horror offering of the week, is here to send chills down your spine. This nerve-racking tale revolves around a seemingly ordinary family living in an old house, whose lives are plunged into chaos when their young son starts hearing voices whispering from within the walls. As the sinister events start to spiral out of control, you will find yourself questioning your own perception of reality. So brace yourselves, because in “Cobweb,” it’s not just about what you see, but also what you hear.

    DORAEMON: NOBITA’S SKY UTOPIA

    2023 • G • 1 hr 47 mins
    ADVENTURE, ANIMATION

    https://youtu.be/f2kujGG2d0M

    Join Doraemon and Nobita as they venture into a world beyond imagination in ‘Doraemon: Nobita’s Sky Utopia’. Set in a perfect, celestial world where happiness is the norm, our favorite duo takes us on another exciting adventure. With the aid of Doraemon’s innovative gadget, they explore this utopia, revealing heartwarming lessons along the way. Don’t miss out on this delightful, sky-high journey!

    MEG 2: THE TRENCH

    2023 • PG • 1 hr 55 mins
    ACTION, HORROR, SCIENCE FICTION
    BUY TICKET

    The high-sea terror is back! “Meg 2: The Trench” marks the return of the gigantic prehistoric shark, promising more chills and thrills. If you thought the first movie was a deep dive into the abyss of aquatic horror, prepare to plunge even deeper. With higher stakes, darker waters, and a bigger, more terrifying creature from the depths, this sequel is all set to push the boundaries of your fear.

    SA KAMAY NG DIYOS

    2023 • PG • 1 hr 19 mins
    DRAMA

    A poignant drama that explores faith, resilience, and the human spirit in the face of insurmountable odds. This film is a deep dive into the intricate dance between destiny and choice.

    SOFT & QUIET

    2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 31 mins
    HORROR, MYSTERY, THRILLER
    BUY TICKET

    “Soft & Quiet” immerses you in the real-time unfolding of an evening that spirals into unexpected chaos. This intriguing narrative revolves around an elementary school teacher who organizes a mixer for like-minded women, striving for a harmonious social gathering. However, the tranquility quickly dissolves when a woman from her past surfaces, leading to a heated altercation that escalates throughout the group. “Soft & Quiet” provides an intense exploration of past versus present, and the thin line between harmony and discord. As the volatile chain of events unravels before your eyes, this film becomes a compelling watch for those seeking an intellectually stimulating cinematic journey.

    FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING

    These films continue to draw in audiences, so if you haven’t caught them yet, better make your way to the cinemas soon! Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still playing in cinemas:

    HAUNTED MANSION

    2023 • PG • 2 hrs 2 mins
    COMEDY, FANTASY, HORROR
    BUY TICKET

    BARBIE

    2023 • PG • 1 hr 53 mins
    COMEDY
    BUY TICKET

    OPPENHEIMER

    2023 • R-16 • 3 hrs
    BIOGRAPHY, DRAMA, HISTORY
    BUY TICKET

    TALK TO ME

    2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 34 mins
    HORROR, THRILLER
    BUY TICKET

    MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – DEAD RECKONING PART ONE

    2023 • PG • 2 hrs 44 mins
    ACTION, ADVENTURE, THRILLER
    BUY TICKET

    INSIDIOUS: THE RED DOOR

    2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 46 mins
    ACTION, THRILLER
    BUY TICKET

    There you have it, movie buffs! This week’s lineup offers a diverse range of cinematic treats to suit every taste. Don’t miss your chance to catch these must-see flicks while they’re still showing. Have a great time at the movies!

  • BTS Suga at Samsung Galaxy Unpacked for ZFold5

    BTS member Suga recently attended Samsung Unpacked held in Seoul, South Korea and he is one of the first in the world to own a Galaxy Z Fold5. With Suga is TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics.

    SUGA participating Galaxy Unpacked 2023 4

    Grab the Galaxy Z Fold5 for only PHP 98,990 for the 256GB variant, PHP 105,990 for the 512GB variant, and PHP 119,990 for the 1TB variant! Pre-order now and save up to PHP45,000! Get a FREE double-up storage worth PHP 7,000, which gives you an automatic storage upgrade from 256GB to 512GB, along with FREE 1-year coverage for Samsung Care+ worth Php10,554 absolutely free. You can also enjoy amazing discounts for other devices; 30% off on the Galaxy Watch6 Series, 50% off on the Galaxy Buds2 Pro, and PHP10,000 off on the Galaxy tab S9 Series, plus additional discounts with enhanced Trade-In deals.

    You can pre-order the new Galaxy Z Fold 5 by visiting https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold5/ and https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold5/buy/

    DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB- 171048 Series of 2023

  • Aileen Lanuza and Kaayo Mindanao Artisans Weave The Threads Of Our Histories In Latest Solo Exhibition

    This August, contemporary visual artist Aileen Lanuza unveils flourishing tapestries in her latest collection, entitled “A Symphony of Roots”. This solo exhibition will have its opening reception on August 9, Wednesday, 5 pm at Galerie Stephanie, located on the 4th floor of Shangri-la Plaza East Wing, Mandaluyong City.

    Aileen Lanuza Regnabit Reign 35.75 x 26.5 inches acrylic on canvas

    The resplendent tune of shared memories once whispered in the shade of grand narratives resonates in the works of Lanuza, a reminder of the bonds that transcend time and place. For the artist, they are stories we continue to tell and live today—and such is how the story of the Filipina is vested in the Maria Clara.

    Working closely with Mindanaoan artisans of Kaayo, a collective dedicated to telling our woven stories, Lanuza hearkens back to our roots, using indigenous weaves from tribes across the region in her compositions. Founded in 2016 by mother-daughter Mary Ann “Baby” Montemayor and Margarita Nograles, clothing line Kaayo brings Mindanaoan weaving heritage to the world, collaborating with women from the T’boli, B’laan, Mandaya, Bagobo Tagabawa, Tagakaolo, and Ata Manobo tribes to raise awareness of, preserve, and reimagine their individual weaving methods and traditions.

    Aileen Lanuza Solis Sunlight 24 x 24 inches acrylic on canvas

    Each thread, each brushstroke traces a strand of a long and rich history, woven into symphonic tapestries. Each creation carries the weight of ages past, a tale of triumph and struggle, that echoes through time.

    “I share the same passion as Kaayo has, in maintaining our roots and bringing forth our custom indigenous weaves that are inherently Filipino,” Lanuza shares. “It is important for me in my works to highlight the best of what we are, maintaining our identity and always, bearing the power to be who we are.”

    Aileen Lanuza Cognatae Animae Kindred Soul 36 x 28.25 inches acrylic on canvas

    Strong, grounded, proud, and unshakeable, these are the women that Lanuza portrays in her works while continuing to embrace the ever-evolving cadence of the world we now live in.

    Relating her experiences as a modern Filipina, Lanuza delineates a heritage that is not just a relic of the past, but whose tune we always carry, resounding in everything we do and constantly redefining who we are and can be. Her signature floral compositions follow the movement, form, and eloquence of the Maria Clara, capturing its timelessness, its quiet intensity, and the enduring flourish of its beauty. As she composes this symphony of roots, the pieces interweave destinies of those who hear its call.

    Aileen Lanuza Devotion 24 x 24 inches acrylic on canvas

    Aileen Lanuza (b. 1981) entered the University of the Philippines Diliman to study fine arts majoring in visual communication. Come 2008, she held her first one-man show and has been part of auctions and publications the same year. A prolific artist, Lanuza has shown works in different countries around Asia and North America. Her style has consistently focused on women and the female experience; from realistic Filipinianas and pop art homages, to impressionistic self-portraits and enigmatic figures, she invites her audience to contemplate the emotion and context of her subjects. Depicting both tenderness and strength in one picture is what makes Lanuza one of the most sought-after Filipino contemporary artists today.

    A Symphony of Roots opening reception August 9 5pm Galerie Stephanie

    “A Symphony of Roots” will be on view from August 9 – 27, 2023. Galerie Stephanie is located on the 4th floor of Shangri-la Plaza East Wing, Mandaluyong City. For more information, you may call (63 2) 7940-5726 or email inquiry.galeriestephanie@gmail.com.

  • Cowabunga! “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” Hits 97% Fresh Rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Unveils Final Trailer

    Hey, TMNT fans! You better hold on to your pizza because we’ve got some totally tubular news for you! The much-awaited Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem has garnered a radical 97% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Cowabunga, right?

    Directed by the awesome Jeff Rowe, the mastermind behind the Oscar-nominated The Mitchells vs. the Machines, and written by a team that includes comedy geniuses Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, this film promises to be an epic adventure.

    Not only does Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem boast a star-studded voice cast, including martial arts legend Jackie Chan, the hilarious Rose Byrne, the witty Hannibal Buress, the powerhouse John Cena, the ice-cool Ice Cube, the talented Natasia Demetriou, the dynamic Ayo Edebiri, the extraordinary Giancarlo Esposito, the chart-topper Post Malone, the hilarious Seth Rogen, the charming Paul Rudd, and the delightful Maya Rudolph, but the titular ninja turtles themselves are voiced by the incredibly talented Micah Abbey, the fearless Shamon Brown Jr., the adventurous Nicolas Cantu, and the fun-loving Brady Noon.

    Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem

    The buzz from the entertainment gurus is overflowing with praise! According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film nails it with its vibrant visuals, witty dialogue, and spot-on voice acting. And guess what? Those turtles you love? They were voiced by actual teenagers, bringing a whole new level of youthful energy to the action.

    Deadline Hollywood also can’t get enough of the movie’s scattershot animation style, which is visually surprising and a breath of fresh air in the world of CGI. The story is no slouch either, delivering pop culture humor in all the best ways. Sounds like a winner to us!

    Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem

    Indiewire gives it a resounding thumbs up, declaring that Mutant Mayhem breathes new life into the classic franchise. It just goes to show that even the oldest IPs can still have some serious claws! Plus, it’s a film that everyone in the family can enjoy together—yep, even your little siblings can join in on the fun.

    But don’t just take our word for it; experience the excitement firsthand! If you’re curious about the design that brings these heroes in a half-shell to life, check out the design featurette here:

    Now, let’s talk about what you can expect from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem. Picture this: after spending years hidden from the human world, the turtle brothers decide it’s time to show the Big Apple what they’re made of. And how do they plan to win over the hearts of New Yorkers? By performing some seriously heroic acts, of course!

    Lucky for them, they’ve got April O’Neil on their side. With her help, they set out to take on a mysterious crime syndicate. But as luck would have it, things get gnarly pretty fast when an army of mutants is unleashed upon them. Brace yourselves for an action-packed adventure that’ll have you on the edge of your seat.

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    The wait is almost over! Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem will be hitting Philippine cinemas on August 23, brought to you by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. So, mark your calendars and get ready for a shell-shocking good time!

    Remember to use #MutantMayhem and #TMNTMovie when you share your excitement on social media. Let’s spread the word and make this a shell-tastic movie experience for everyone!

    Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”

  • TPB’s PHITEX program wins National Tourism Initiative of the Year

    The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the marketing and promotions arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), was recently honored with the National Tourism Initiative of the Year-Philippines award in recognition of its conduct of the 2022 Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX), the country’s largest government-organized travel trade event. The Gov Media Awards, presented by Gov Media Magazine and held in Singapore, recognizes the most outstanding government projects and initiatives in the Asia Pacific region. This year’s entries were evaluated by an elite panel of experts, including leaders from World Bank and ADB.

    Sec Frasco and COO Nograles during PHITEX 2022

    “We are one with the TPB in appreciation of this international recognition for PHITEX, which reflects the successful collaboration of government and the private sector under the shared tourism governance envisioned by the Marcos Administration,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, who is also Chairman of the TPB Board said on the  award received by the DOT’s marketing arm.

    “This recognition is an honor for us at the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines and is a triumph that we dedicate to all tourism stakeholders who continually work hard to contribute to the growth of the tourism industry and economy. This will only spur us in our commitment to making the Philippines a tourism powerhouse in Asia,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. 

    Gov Media stated that TPB’s remarkable organization of PHITEX was lauded for its role in promoting responsible tourism and driving growth in the Philippine tourism industry. The projects awarded serve as catalysts for transformative change and have significant implications for the well-being of billions of people living in Asia and beyond. 

    Since its establishment in 1996, PHITEX has played a vital role in fostering business partnerships and showcasing the diverse array of Philippine tourism destinations.  In 2022, PHITEX adopted the theme “Embracing Responsible Tourism” to emphasize the significance of safe, smart, and sustainable travel practices. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, PHITEX successfully hosted over 116 foreign buyers, comprised of 53 physical attendees and 63 virtual participants from 32 countries that actively participated with 206 Philippine sellers composed of 96 physical attendees and 110 virtual participants during the Travel Exchange (TRAVEX). 

    Said participants represented travel agencies, tour operators, hotels and resorts, MICE operators, and airlines. Key markets such as Korea, Malaysia, and China were well-represented, with 77% of buyers coming from source markets and 39% from opportunity markets. 

    The fruitful discussions in TRAVEX generated an estimated revenue of Php 190,143,651.00 (US$3.496m) based on the sales lead forms submitted by the Philippine sellers.

    TPB has announced that the next PHITEX will be held in September this year in Cebu. This year’s event will feature a two-day Face-to-Face Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), PHITEX Educational Program (PEP), and Pre and Post-Event Tours for Buyers, targeting quality buyers and sellers.