Insignia Presents is thrilled to announce a highly anticipated live concert featuring the sensational R&B artist, UMI, as part of the curated Insignia Concert Series. The event will take place at Samsung Hall, SM Aura Premier in BGC, Taguig on Tuesday August 15. Music enthusiasts can look forward to an unforgettable evening filled with UMI’s soulful melodies, mesmerizing vocals, and captivating stage presence.
UMI, known for her unique blend of R&B, soul, and alternative music, has been making waves in the industry with her powerful storytelling and honest lyricism. With her distinct sound and thought-provoking songwriting, UMI has garnered a devoted fan base and critical acclaim worldwide.
As part of the Insignia Concert Series, UMI’s performance highlights the essence of this concert series, showcasing acts that are on the rise and the artists that fans should pay attention to. Insignia Presents is committed to curating a platform that celebrates emerging talents and provides a stage for promising artists like UMI to shine.
This concert will showcase UMI’s impressive discography, including her charttopping hits such as “Remember Me,” “Love Affair,” and “Butterfly.” Fans can anticipate an immersive musical experience as UMI performs her soul-stirring ballads and infectious tracks, creating an atmosphere of pure musical bliss.
Tickets are priced at PHP 2,650 and fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early, as availability is limited and demand is expected to be high. Tickets can be purchased online at www.InsigniaPresents.com or at any SM Tickets outlets nationwide.
For more information about UMI’s live concert and ticket sales, please visit www.InsigniaPresents.com.
“He came from nothing. He conquered everything.” The tagline for the much-anticipated movie ‘Napoleon‘ says it all. Ridley Scott, the legendary director behind cinematic marvels like ‘Gladiator’ and ‘The Martian,’ is back with another captivating action epic. This time, he brings to life the tumultuous story of French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, with Oscar®-winner Joaquin Phoenix leading the charge.
Watch the unveiling of Napoleon’s world in the newly released official trailer now:
‘Napoleon’: A Power-Packed Cinematic Journey
Prepare to be captivated by the larger-than-life world of “Napoleon.” Ridley Scott, the legendary director behind cinematic masterpieces, orchestrates a visual feast that will transport you to a time of grandeur and conquest. The film showcases the relentless pursuit of power by Bonaparte, who emerged from humble beginnings to become one of history’s most iconic figures. Through his addictive and volatile relationship with his one true love, Josephine, played by the enchanting Vanessa Kirby, we witness the human side of this visionary leader.
Ridley Scott’s Visionary Filmmaking
“Napoleon” combines breathtaking large-scale filmmaking with exhilarating practical battle sequences, making it an absolute treat for action enthusiasts. Ridley Scott’s mastery of storytelling brings to life the brilliant military and political tactics employed by Bonaparte. Prepare to be amazed as you watch the epic clash of armies and experience the strategic brilliance that propelled Napoleon to greatness.
A Stellar Ensemble Cast
Behind the scenes, a talented team has joined forces to bring this action-packed spectacle to the big screen. Directed by Ridley Scott and featuring a screenplay by David Scarpa, “Napoleon” is a collaboration of visionary minds. The film is produced by Ridley Scott, Kevin J. Walsh, Mark Huffam, and Joaquin Phoenix, ensuring that every aspect of the production is top-notch.
As the titular character, Joaquin Phoenix delivers a mesmerizing performance that showcases his immense talent and range as an actor. With his commanding presence and magnetic screen presence, he brings Napoleon Bonaparte to life in a way that will leave you in awe. Alongside him, Vanessa Kirby shines as Josephine, capturing the essence of their passionate and tumultuous love story.
Gear up for a cinematic adventure like no other as “Napoleon” prepares to conquer the silver screen. Ridley Scott’s masterful direction, combined with the stellar performances of Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby, guarantees an epic experience that will transport you to a bygone era of ambition, love, and strategic warfare.
Don’t miss out on this highly anticipated action epic. Get ready to witness the rise and fall of a legend when “Napoleon” hits cinemas soon. Watch the official trailer now and let the excitement begin!
Stay tuned and join the conversation with the hashtag #Napoleon. Get ready to immerse yourself in the epic saga of Napoleon Bonaparte, a tale of a man who came from nothing and conquered everything!
This August, with the goal to bring world cinema and make critically-acclaimed A-list titles even more accessible to Filipino audiences, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) brings to local theaters four new titles from Belgium, Austria, Cambodia, and United Kingdom.
Charlotte Wells’ “Aftersun” tells the story of Sophie as she reflects on the joy and melancholy of a holiday she took with her father twenty years earlier. This UK film took home the French Touch Prize of the Critics’ Week Jury at the 75th Cannes International Film Festival.
Following the lives of 13-year-olds Leo and Remi, “Close” tells their story of drifting apart after their relationship is questioned by their schoolmates. Lukas Dhont’s film got the nod of the Academy Awards when this film from Belgium was nominated for the Best International Feature category in 2023.
Marie Kreutzer’s “Corsage” depicts the life of Empress Elizabeth of Austria, told on a fictional account. The film won the Cannes Un Certain Regard Section’s Best Performance Award for Vicky Krieps’ portrayal of Empress Elizabeth. It also had its PH premiere during the 10th QCinema International Film Festival. Corsage’s countries of origin include Austria, Germany, and France.
Davy Chou’s “Return to Seoul” follows the life of a 25-year-old French woman as she returns to her birthplace, South Korea, after being adopted to a French family. She then decides to track down her biological parents but her journey takes a surprising turn. Chou’s film won international acclaim in various film festivals like Asia Pacific Screen Awards, Athens International Film Festival, and Belfast Film Festival among others. It was also Cambodia’s official submission to the Osacr’s. Likewise, it also had its PH Premiere during the 10th QCinema International Film Festival and bagged the Jury Prize award.
Showing in select cinemas nationwide beginning August 23, 2023, catch these four award winning A-list titles in “FDCP Presents World Cinema”. More details soon. For updates visit: https://web.facebook.com/FDCP.ph
Chowking, the #1 Chinese quick service restaurant brand in the Philippines, has recently unveiled the all-new Spicy Chao Fan – made with the perfect blend of spices for that signature Spicy Wok-Sarap flavor. The new product was launched by celebrity actress and longtime endorser Kim Chiu at the #ShareTheSpice press event held on July 3, 2023.
Chowking’s Chao Fan has always been a crowd favorite, and now it just got a spicy upgrade with the new Spicy Chao Fan. It has a unique take on spicy, as its level of spiciness holds just the right amount for anybody and everybody to enjoy. This flavorful and hearty meal is ready to spice up your life, and it’s too good to not share.
At the press event last July 3, Kim Chiu introduced the #ShareTheSpice challenge, where she invited everyone to try the new Spicy Chao Fan. To join the movement, all you have to do is try the product, post about it on any social media platform with the hashtag #ShareTheSpice and #SpicyChaoFan, then tag two of your friends who you want to share the spice with. When you post and join the movement, you get the chance to win gift certificates and special prizes from Chowking!
“When we were creating the Spicy Chao Fan, we deliberately wanted it to have the right level of spice that everyone can enjoy. It’s not spicy for spicy’s sake, it has just the right Spicy Wok-Sarap kick that will leave you wanting more,” said Jonathan De Quiroz, Chowking Brand Director for Chao Fan & Brand Operations.
Join the #ShareTheSpice movement and try the all-new #SpicyChaoFan, available via Dine-In, Take-Out, Drive-Thru, and delivery through chowkingdelivery.com or the Chowking App.
Embrace an unforgettable journey through Asia as Disney+ introduces a powerhouse line-up of APAC originals, including the Korean headliner “Moving” and an array of compelling dramas, riveting music-documentaries from Korea, as well as captivating Japanese live-action and anime series.
Since its lauded 2022 Content Showcase, Disney+ has been the home of over 20 must-see APAC titles. But brace yourself, as this popular streaming service is set to redefine entertainment with a curated trove of new originals and quality storytelling, exclusively streaming from late 2023 through to 2024.
Promotional stills from left to right, top to bottom: “Moving”, “Soundtrack #2”, “The Worst of Evil”, “Tokyo Revengers: Tenjiku Arc”, “BTS Monuments: Beyond the Star” and “Dragons of Wonderhatch”
Capturing Audiences with Exceptional APAC Originals
Disney’s APAC originals have garnered positive consumer response throughout the first half of the year. For instance, season two of the enthralling Korean crime-action series, Big Bet, starring the iconic actor Choi Minsik, replaced season one as the most-watched locally produced original series on Disney+ in Korea during its premiere week. Moreover, the captivating Korean drama series Dr. Romantic held the #1 spot in most APAC markets based on hours watched during its first month, while the live-action Japanese thriller Gannibal and anime Tokyo Revengers made it to the top five most-watched titles in Japan in their first week of launch.
Carol Choi, Executive Vice President of Original Content Strategy, The Walt Disney Company APAC, revealed, “With the success of our initial wave of APAC originals, we will continue to build on this momentum by delivering exceptional storytelling through the second half of 2023 and beyond.Thrillers, crime-action and fantasy, centered on strong storylines from Korea and Japan, are resonating with audiences and we look forward to continued collaboration with leading content creators and storytellers from this region.”
APAC Originals: Korea’s Contributions
In the second half of 2023 through 2024, Disney will be launching some of its most anticipated local APAC originals and stories, including:
From Korea:
Moving – Adapted from the smash webtoon of the same name by famed Korean author Kangfull, Moving stars Ryu Seungryong, Han Hyojoo and Zo Insung in a captivating story about a group of superpowered individuals on the run from government forces and a mysterious assassin who has been dispatched to take them all out. Moving is slated to debut exclusively on Disney+on August 9.
The Worst of Evil– In 1990s Seoul, a former DJ seizes control of a gang and begins pushing a potent new drug (nicknamed “Gangnam Crystal”) in the city’s nightclubs. With little known about the source of this drug, rural police officer Park Joonmo is recruited to bring down the trafficking triangle from the inside. Slated to debut later this year exclusively on Disney+, this new series stars Ji Changwook; Squid Game actor Wi Hajun, and Lim Semi.
Vigilante – A star student at the police academy, Jiyong is a burgeoning martial arts master and a bookish academic who has spent over a decade haunted by the image of his mother being murdered in front of him by a stranger. Exacting his revenge on the non-repentant offender, Jiyong is set along a path that will see him target other offenders, using the knowledge gained at the police academy to avoid being caught in Vigilante
Soundtrack #2 – In 2022, Soundtrack #1 captured audiences with its touching story of unrequited love and emotionally poignant score. With Soundtrack #2, this fan-favorite series returns late 2023 with a new storyline of two young sweethearts who break up after six years together, only to be reconnected again. Starring Keum Saerok and Steve Sanghyun Noh, Soundtrack #2 will also see the return of Kim Heewon, the director behind the show’s hit first series.
BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star – An exclusive Disney+ original and part of Disney’s collaboration with HYBE, this music docu-series will chart the incredible journey of 21st century pop icons BTS. With unprecedented access to a vast library of music and footage over the past nine years, the series will feature the daily lives, thoughts and plans of BTS members, as they prepare for their second chapter.
Han River Police – Starring Kwone Sangwoo and Kim Hiewon, this upcoming Korean fictional comedy action series follows the crazy antics of Seoul’s Han River Police Force as they patrol the waterways and respond to emergency situations including terrorist incidents, accidents and more.
From Japan:
Dragons of Wonderhatch – A hybrid story set in both the “real world” and an anime land called Upananta where dragons and humans coexist, Dragons of Wonderhatch tells the cross-dimensional story of Nagi, a high school student who feels out of place; Thaim, a dragon rider who communicates with dragons in Upananta, and Aktha, a dragon rider hero. Dragons of Wonderhatch stars Sena Nakajima, Daiken Okudaira and Mackenyu.
A Town Without Seasons – When the Nani disaster hit Japan 12 years ago, countless residents had their lives turned upside down and were bundled into temporary housing left to rebuild their lives. This Japanese live action original tells the story of Hansuke, recruited to spy on the remaining residents but ends up recognizing the makeshift town as his new home and coming to terms with the disaster that took almost everything from him.
Tokyo Revengers: Tenjiku Arc – The popular anime series, part of Disney’s collaboration with Japanese publishing house Kodansha, returns with the fan-favorite Tenjiku Arc depicting the “Kanto Incident” and the last war between the Tokyo Manji Gang, led by Manjiro Sano; and the Tenjiku, led by Izana Kurokawa. Will Takemichi, the former bad boy turned time traveler, be able to stop a tragedy in the past to save the present? Tune in this October to find out!
PHOENIX: EDEN17 – Produced by STUDIO4°C and based on the legendary manga “PHOENIX” by Osamu Tezuka, this series follows Romi and her partner as they flee the dystopian hellscape of earth in the hope of a better life on the planet Eden, only to discover that Eden no longer exists.
Wrapping up 2023 will be the music docu-series NCT 127: The Lost Boys, Japanese anime SYNDUALITY Noir, and an ice show performance by Japanese ice-skater Yuzuru Hanyu. As we step into 2024, viewers can anticipate more thrilling narratives such as Korea’s A Shop For Killers and Red Swan, and Japan’s House of the Owl and Murai In Love. This promises a future filled with an ever-expanding collection of gripping stories from APAC, ready to capture the hearts of audiences globally.
As we draw the curtain on this grand spectacle of upcoming APAC content, it’s clear that Disney+ continues to redefine our entertainment experience, delivering unmatched storytelling from every corner of the world. From heart-thumping Korean dramas, soul-stirring music documentaries, to the mesmerizing blend of Japanese live-action and anime, the thrill is only beginning. So why wait? Embark on an unforgettable journey of extraordinary tales and captivating characters. Head over to Disney+ and start streaming now! It’s your turn to dive into a world where magic comes alive and dreams never end. Join Disney+ and become a part of the story that never stops unfolding.
In an age of pop cultural superheroes, multiverses and galaxies far, far away, a group of artists decided to give props to the real heroes among us: the laborers who put entire industries upon their backs.
“(Our exhibit titled) “Dakilang Manggagawa” ay isang pagpupugay sa ating mga kababayan na walang sawang nagsasakripisyo alang-alang sa mamamayan. Kaya bilang pasasalamat, ito ang maging tribute namin para sa kanila.”
This is according to Rico Aunzo, spokesperson of the Masipag Artist Group (MAG), which is featured in an exhibit which is ongoing until July 31 at Robinsons Land ARTablado, Upper Ground Floor, Main Mall of Robinsons Antipolo.
The group had its origin in the Manawari Art Group page on Facebook in 2019. The members did not know each other formally. They would just communicate via social media and share their love for art and all things creative. The FB group evolved into a full-blown art group called Masipag to stress the importance of hard work, grit and perseverance to reach the summit of one’s career.
“Ang kasipagan ang susi ng kaginhawaan,” says Aunzo. The group takes inspiration from the words of the late great Tagalog poet Jose Corazon de Jesus: “Bawat patak ng pawis mo’y / yumayari ka ng dangal / dinadala mo ang lahi mo / sa luklukan ng tagumpay.”
The founder and president of MAG is neo-realist painter Naptalie “Rico” Aunzo, whose art style is characterized by a modern, traditional and cubist take on classic Filipino tropes and customs, with a recurring protagonist named “Pedrong Masipag.” Pedrong Masipag is meant to represent traits and virtues that an everyday Filipino possesses — as an antithesis to the poster-boy of laziness in Pinoy folklore, Juan Tamad. Pedrong Masipag is described as a decent gentleman, dressed in a traditional barong Tagalog and salakot, and often illustrated doing noble deeds.
With Aunzo are Daniel Dumaguit, sculptor-painter Nelson Basa, Pol A. Mesina (the founder of Artipolo Group Inc.), Jayson Borlon, Krister Jhude Isip, Rem Kulas, Mori, Hannah Castalone, Ton Muñoz, Efren Saludar, Rodgie Gapayao, Doodz Iligan, Dominic Gomez, Antonio Pacuan Jr., Leo De Fraga Torcelino, Joyce Pertez and Mark Aparato.
“Sila po ang naging aktibo sa nabuong grupo na ito at handang makipag tulungan upang maging successful ang kauna-unahang exhibit namin.”
The group is grateful to be given the spotlight by an art space known for welcoming artists from all walks of life.
“Ang ARTablado po ang magiging pinaka-malaking susi namin upang maisakatuparan po ang lahat ng aming nilalayon at pinapangarap. Dahil po diyan, taos-puso po ang pasasalamat namin sa Robinsons at sa bumubuo ng ARTablado.”
The people behind Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) believe in the ingenuity and artistry of Filipinos. RLC has allocated spaces in Robinsons Antipolo and Robinsons Galleria Ortigas to hold exhibitions for art practitioners who deserve to showcase their hard work, grit and perseverance. ARTablado’s impact has been instantaneous for members of the art community who have been pining for a platform where every artist — young or old, established or up-and-coming — is welcome.
“Labis-labis ang galak namin na ang aming grupo ay makakapag-simula ng maabot ang pangarap. Ang tinitingalang ARTablado ay isang haligi na may matibay na pundasyon. Tiyak na ang aming pagsisikap ay mabibigyan ng ganap na suporta. At ito na po ang magiging simula ng katuparan ng aming mga pangarap.”
If you have yet to upgrade your Galaxy J mobile device, this might just be the perfect time to level up your productivity and entertainment and switch to a new Samsung Galaxy device.
Upgrade to a new Samsung Galaxy device to get a P1,000 discount when you trade-in any of your old Galaxy J phones until September 30, 2023.
You can also trade your old Galaxy J Series to any new Galaxy smartphone, including the Galaxy S23, S22, S21 series; Galaxy Z series foldables; and A12 to A73 series*.
If you’re still not sure which Samsung Galaxy device is for you, check these new line up of smartphones to choose from:
The new epic phone for you
If you have always wanted a phone with an epic camera and performance, the Galaxy S23 series tops your list of options. Snap epic moments and selfies with the 12MP front-facing cameras and capture cinematic Nightography videos. Enjoy your favorite games and series and need not worry of charging as it has an extended battery life with its revolutionary chip, the Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Galaxy – the most powerful and efficient platform ever in a Samsung Galaxy smartphone and the fastest12 Snapdragon available today. The Galaxy S23 series come in Phantom Black (a classic), Green, Lavender, and Cream.
Unfold your world
If you have always wanted the experience of a flip or fold phone, the Galaxy Z Fold4 and Galaxy Z Flip4 might just be the new phone for you! With its massive screen, the Galaxy Z Fold4 makes watching videos and playing games more exciting and multitasking more efficient with a 7.6-inch main screen and Samsung’s innovative Multi-Active Window for multiple application access. The Galaxy Z Fold4 comes in Beige, Phantom Black, Graygreen, and Burgundy.
For a more compact and fashionable option, Galaxy Z Flip4 won’t feel bulky in your pocket. Get creative with the FlexCam, which uses the phone’s hinge feature for taking photos and selfies hands-free. The Galaxy Z Flip4 is also splash resistant and incredibly durable as it’s constructed with Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®+ and Samsung’s toughest aluminum frame, the Armor Aluminum hinge frame. It comes in the colors Bora Purple, Graphite, Pink Gold and Blue.
Enjoy awesome phone self-expression and entertainment
Enjoy creating awesome content and recording, as well as tuning in to your favorite entertainment with the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy A34 5G. Both phones deliver clear images and are equipped with creative editing tools, photos and videos, and feature immersive Super AMOLED displays with FHD+ resolution for realistic awesome colors. They are also built with fast 5G connectivity for downloads, streaming, and gaming possibilities, and offer super-fast charging. The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy A34 5G are available in awesome colorways Lime, Violet and Graphite.
For a more pocket-friendly option, you can display and capture awesome with the Samsung Galaxy A24 LTE has an upgraded display with its 6.5-inch Full HD+ resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels and Super AMOLED for crystal clear and crisp graphics for unwinding with viral videos or enjoying mobile games with your besties.
Curate the best angle for your selfies and snap unforgettable memories with its improved 13-MP selfie camera, 5-megapixel ultra-wide, 50MP OIS Main Camera, 2-MP Macro and the new 2-MP depth for sharp images and videos. Capture more content with its Mediatek 6789 processor that supports higher memory bandwidth. It is also packed with 8GB memory and a storage of 128GB as well as a Micro SD card slot. The Galaxy A24 LTE comes in Awesome Lime and Awesome Graphite.
The promo is applicable to all participating Samsung trade-in retail stores and participating online partners.
Note: Only smartphone devices are accepted for smartphone trade-up models and only tablet devices are accepted for tablet trade-up models.
DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-170068 Series of 2023
The Philippine Business and Disability Network (PBDN), which is a for-and-by business platform that provides barrier-free workplaces for Persons with Disability, will be holding their second annual conference this July 19, 2023 at SMX Convention Center Aura entitled Working Beyond Barriers.
As a non profit organization, PBDN strives towards equal opportunities for persons with disability by actively implementing initiatives that center on learning, collaboration, and support for disability inclusion advocates from the private sector to enable persons with disability’s full participation, growth, and success within the workforce.
Core activities of PBDN include connecting persons with disability to hiring opportunities, capacitating companies through various training and learning sessions, and collaborating with companies through further contributing to disability research and literature.
A few notable PBDN partner members include JP Morgan Chase & Co., IBM, Paypal, PLDT-Smart, Nestle, Coca-Cola Beverages and Co. to name a few.
A participant from last year shared her thoughts on last year’s conference, saying it was “Overflowing with insights” “Specific solutions were provided, and best practices were shared. This allowed companies just starting on their DEI journey to gain more understanding and perspective on the topic.”
Another partner appreciated that “The conference allowed attendees to learn about different disability inclusion topics” and said that the breakout sessions gave them the opportunity to personally listen and raise questions to the speakers, allowing for better engagement.
To raise awareness for workplace inclusion, the PBDN conference will feature local and international speakers who also support the same vision. Some of the speakers last year include John Nicholls from PayPal, Jen Legasca of Asurion; members of the Person with Disability community like Krissy Bisda, Ernie Heredero; and international speakers like Susan Scott-Parker from ILO-GBDN.
The PBDN conference will feature esteemed local and international speakers from various backgrounds and industries who will be sharing their thoughts, insights, and expertise on disability inclusion within the workplace.
Citing the importance to educate and train companies on workplace inclusion, Grant Javier, Executive Director of PBDN shares, “We aim for attendees to gain more knowledge and insight on the concepts and topics on the realm of disability inclusion, such as the context, issues, and opportunities of disability inclusion in the workplace”,
Over 300 partner participants are expected to attend from partner organizations and the PWD sector. This event is also sponsored by Catch21, Austrian Embassy Manila, Paypal, Coca-Cola Beverages Inc., B&M Global Services Manila, Northern Trust, Reed Elsevier, Visa, ADB, TaskUs, and media sponsors Negosentro, Business World and CNN Philippines.
Companies wishing to participate in the PBDN Conference may register via bit.ly/PBDN2023.
With the CCP Main Building undergoing rehabilitation, the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Cinemalaya Foundation, Inc. push the boundaries and bring its brand of cinematic experience to the Philippine International Convention Center, located inside the CCP Complex, on August 4 to 13, 2023.
“We hope to retain the unique community spirit of the festival, which was one of the main considerations when we were deciding on the venue. If we look at the history of the convention center, PICC is quite conducive for film screenings, having hosted the Manila International Film Festival in the 1980s,” said CCP president Margie Moran-Floirendo.
For its 10-day run, the Cinemalaya films will be screened at three meeting rooms, Cinema Rizal (Meeting Room 1), Cinema Bonifacio (Meeting Room 2 and 3), and Cinema Felipe (Meeting Room 4). Fringe events and talkbacks will be held at Cinema Palma (Meeting Room 5). The exhibitions and filmmakers’ profiles will be on display at the Executive Lounge.
Following the theme “ilumiNasyon,” the country’s pioneering independent film festival returns with 10 full-lengths and 10 short films in competition, as well as other components that will secure a space for independent filmmakers to tell their stories and share their perspectives on the issues that shape our times, while capturing the audience’s imagination.
Short films in competition include: ANG KINING BINALAYBAY KAG AMBAHANON KO PARA SA IMO (THESE RHYMES AND RHYTHMS MEANT FOR YOU) By Kent John D. Desamparado; GOLDEN BELLS By Kurt Soberano; HINAKDAL (CONDEMNED) By Arvin Belarmino; HM HM MHM By Sam Villa-Real And Kim Timan; KOKURYO: THE UNTOLD STORY OF BB. UNDAS 2019 By Diokko Manuel Dionisio; MAKOKO SA BAYBAY (I AM GOING TO THE BEACH) By Mike Cabarles; MAUDI NGA ARAPAAP (LAST DREAM) By Daniel Magayon; SIBUYAS NI PERFECTO (PERFECTO’S ONION) By Januar Yap; SOTA (HORSE CARETAKER) by Mae Tanagon; and TONG ADLAW NGA NAG-SNOW SA PINAS (THE DAY IT SNOWED IN THE PHILIPPINES) by Joshua Caesar Medroso.
Film enthusiasts and festival fans will continue to enjoy the festival’s mainstays: Retrospective, lookback to winning films of past Cinemalaya editions; Best of the Festivals, which showcases the best films from local festivals; Visions of Asia, featuring award-winning Asian and Netpac films; Premieres, featuring never-before-screen films; and Dokyu, which screens award-winning documentaries.
The Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video, considered the longest-running independent film competition of its kind in the ASEAN region, will once again harvest the best of the best, with films competing in various categories such as Short Feature/Narrative, Experimental, Documentary and Animation. Pre-selected entries will be screened on August 5 to 7, at the CCP Tanghalang Ignacio B. Gimenez (CCP Blackbox Theater). Awarding will be on August 12.
The Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival has pushed the boundaries for creative expression in the last 19 years by avidly propping up artistic integrity and illuminating the Filipino filmamakers’ visions of nationhood.
Since 2005, Cinemalaya has continued to discover, encourage and support the cinematic works of upcoming and veteran Filipino filmmakers who boldly articulate and freely interpret the Philippine experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity.
To date, Cinemalaya has supported and promoted the production of Filipino full feature independent films and short films. Many of these films have won awards in local and international competitions and festivals. Through the annual festival, Cinemalaya has showcased over 1,000 works by independent filmmakers including full feature films, shorts, documentaries, Filipino film classics, and art films.
For more information, visit CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya Facebook pages and other social media accounts in Twitter, Instagram and Tiktok.
In a stunning display of horror mania, “Insidious: The Red Door” has taken the Philippine box office by storm, claiming the title of the biggest opening weekend of 2023 and grossing an impressive P205.6 million in just five days (July 5 to 9). This spine-chilling triumph on 542 screens across 206 locations marks a significant milestone not only for the film but also for horror movies in general. Columbia Pictures, the local distributor, proudly announced this achievement.
Unexpectedly, “Insidious: The Red Door” exceeded all expectations and delighted local audiences with its terrifying twists and turns. Christopher Sy, managing director of Columbia Pictures, expressed his amazement at the overwhelming response, stating, “The film was poised to open well, but we were just blown away by how much the horror fans embraced this.. It’s like the biggest, most enthusiastic send-off party to a beloved friend.”
Fans eagerly flocked to cinemas, turning midnight screenings into sold-out events. The palpable excitement and energy among audiences waiting in line was truly reminiscent of the good old days of shared cinema experiences. As Sy observed, “I think the fans wanted to experience the movie with other people, to get scared together, to scream together, in a shared environment,” adds Sy. “And this can only be possible inside a cinema – in the dark, with a giant screen, and the best sound.”
The magnitude of “Insidious: The Red Door’s” success becomes even more remarkable when considering that it surpassed the opening weekend figures of blockbuster films like “Avatar: The Way of the Water,” “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,” “John Wick: Chapter 4,” “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3,” “Fast X,” and “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” over the past 12 months.
As the latest and final installment of the beloved franchise, “Insidious: The Red Door” has not only shattered records but also claimed the title of the biggest horror opening weekend of all time in the Philippines. It outperformed previous entries in the “Insidious,” “The Conjuring,” and “IT” franchises, as well as local titles like “Deleter” and “Feng Shui.”
Additionally, the film achieved several other noteworthy milestones, including being the biggest Philippine opening weekend in the past 12 months, the third biggest since the post-pandemic reopening of cinemas in October 2021, the fifth biggest opening weekend for Sony Pictures of all time, and the widest release ever for a horror film.
The top-grossing cinema for “Insidious: The Red Door” was SM North EDSA Cinema, with ticket sales reaching P8.5 million. It was followed by SM Megamall Cinema (P7.2 million) and SM Fairview Cinema (P4.96 million).
Completing the list of the top 10 cinemas are SM Mall of Asia (P4.45 million), SM Clark (P4.3 million), SM Dasmarinas (P4.2 million), SM Seaside Cebu (P3 million), SM Iloilo (P2.93 million), SM Davao (P2.9 million), and SM Marikina (P2.8 million).
Among the top 20 theaters are SM Grand Central (P2.79 million), Uptown Taguig (P2.7 million), SM Baguio (P2.56 million), SM Pampanga (P2.397 million), SM Lipa (P2.389 million), SM Bacoor (P2.38 million), SM Southmall (P2.36 million), SM San Lazaro (P2.3 million), SM Cebu (P2.27 million), and Robinsons Antipolo (P2.267 million).
Starring Patrick Wilson, Ty Simpkins, and Rose Byrne, “Insidious: The Red Door” reunites the original cast for an epic conclusion to the chilling saga of the Lambert family. Directed by Patrick Wilson and produced by Jason Blum, Oren Peli, James Wan, and Leigh Whannell, this highly anticipated horror film is now terrifying audiences in cinemas.
Don’t miss out on ‘Insidious: The Red Door,’ currently playing in Philippine cinemas. The film is distributed by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Stay connected using the hashtag #InsidiousMovie.
