Xiaomi has a special treat for fans who are looking for budget-friendly smartphones. You can now save P500 with the Redmi A1 and Redmi 12C price slash promo!
The Redmi A1 is an entry-level phone that’s both practical and powerful with the MediaTek Helio A22 processor with expandable storage, perfect for daily social media browsing, online classes and meetings, and so much more. From P3,799, the Redmi A1 received a permanent price slash of only P3,299.
Redmi 12C is also an affordable smartphone that boasts of a spacious storage, smooth performance thanks to its MediaTek Helio G85 processor, and large 6.71” HD+ display. It’s the ideal phone for hardworking professionals and side-hustlers who want to make it big. From today until June 30, you can get all three Redmi 12C variants at discounted prices:
3GB + 32GB: P4,999 (from P5,499)
4GB + 64GB: P5,999 (from P6,499)
4GB + 128GB: P6,999 (from P7,499)
Don’t miss out on Xiaomi’s price slash promo, available via Xiaomi’s Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok shops (@XiaomiPhilippines). For more information, visit Xiaomi’s official Facebook page and Xiaomi’s official website.
New allies, emerging villains, and intrepid humans – meet the motley crew of ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts‘. Brace yourselves as we dive headfirst into a universe teeming with vibrant characters and towering giants, ready to wage an earth-shaking battle for the fate of the world.
THE AUTOBOTS
OPTIMUS PRIME
Behold the indomitable commander of the Autobots, a picture of fearlessness. Optimus Prime transforms into a shiny red 1987 Freightliner LFA, with sharp silver trim. He is stoic, fearless, thoughtful and will not stop until the Decepticon threat – and any sinister mutations of it – has been neutralized for good and his Autobots have returned home to Cybertron.
OPTIMUS PRIME
Combat abilities: A formidable fighter, Optimus Prime has a left fist that doubles as an Ion Blaster and a right that doubles as an Energon Sword.
Voiced by: Peter Cullen
BUMBLEBEE
An Autobot scout most known for forming friendships with humans, Bumblebee converts into a black and yellow 1977 Chevrolet Camaro, now with a rugged off-road update. Open, optimistic and the eternal adventurer, he is fueled by the need to be there for his friends and fight to the end for the greater good.
Combat abilities: No matter the mission or challenge, Bumblebee will always bring his A-game.
MIRAGE
This Autobot warrior, which has been stuck in an underground car park for way too long for his liking, converts into a silver 964-Gen Porsche 911. Cool, casual and can be a little cocky, Mirage delights in pushing limits and testing boundaries, and isn’t afraid to challenge authority. Despite all that, he sincerely believes in doing the right thing and would never let any harm come to his friends.
Combat abilities: Can do holographic illusions. With the ability to multiply before his opponents’ eyes, he can throw them off his tail in a flash.
Voiced by: Pete Davidson
ARCEE
This Autobot sharpshooter transforms into a sleek, dark pink and white Ducati 916 motorcycle and enjoys verbal sparring with her friends and allies. Like her fellow Autobots, Arcee is a tireless defender of freedom and the common good, dedicated to protecting the right of all sentient beings to determine their own destiny.
Combat abilities: In her motorcycle mode, Arcee dazzles with her agility and precision of movement as a hunter and an elite sharpshooter. And it doesn’t hurt that she has a double-barreled Ion blaster.
Voiced by: Liza Koshy
WHEELJACK
A master Autobot mechanic, Wheeljack, who’s been hiding out in South Africa, transforms into a brown and cream 1970 Volkswagen Bus. Known to his allies for his ingenuity and technical knowledge, Wheeljack is also committed to ending the war that threatens Earth, so he and the rest of the Autobots can make a peaceful return to Cybertron.
Combat abilities: An ingenious inventor, a crack mechanic and an intrepid scientist, Wheeljack is one triple-threat Autobot.
Voiced by: Cristo Fernández
STRATOSPHERE
This Autobot transport plane converts into a military-green monolith that’s an amalgamation of the body of a C-130 Hercules, the wings of a C-17 Globemaster III, the cockpit of a C-5 Galaxy, and the tail of an Antonov An-225. A gruff and unflappable senior member of the Autobot team, Stratosphere is currently grounded but ready to fly back into action.
Combat abilities: Stratosphere’s vast size can fit the entire Autobot team inside his massive cargo hold. He can also provide high-altitude covering fire.
Voiced by: John DiMaggio
THE MAXIMALS
OPTIMUS PRIMAL
The leader of the Maximals, a heroic beast faction of Transformers bots, Optimus Primal has been hiding out in the jungles of Machu Picchu, Peru, and converts into a 13-foot-tall metallic silverback gorilla with fists the size of boulders. Optimus Primal and the rest of the Maximals are ever vigilant, watchful for the return of an evil they have battled across galaxies, for eons.
Combat abilities: A roar from Primal is enough to stop enemies in their tracks, and a pound from his gigantic fists makes even the ground quake in fear.
Voiced by: Ron Perlman
AIRAZOR
A Maximal scout, Airazor converts into a peregrine falcon with a jaw-dropping wingspan and deadly poise and power, and is unafraid to operate alone and fly without backup.
Combat abilities: Her falcon beast mode gives Airazor astonishing attack capabilities in tandem with her high-flying prowess, like being able to rain down destructive fire from her mighty beak.
Voiced by: Michelle Yeoh
CHEETOR
This Maximal warrior converts into a cheetah the size of a small truck with a grace and athleticism that belies his bulk.
Combat abilities: A supersonic blur, Cheetor is the fastest of all the Transformers beasts. His sheer speed combined with his colossal claws means he can strike down his enemies before they even see him coming.
Voiced by: Tongayi Chirisa
RHINOX
Another Maximal warrior, Rhinox converts into an enormous metallic Rhino – 8,000 pounds of sheer force.
Combat abilities: Defined by his staggering strength and peerless physicality, once Rhinox gets going, he is impossible to stop.
Voiced by: David Sobolov
THE TERRORCONS
SCOURGE
The most fearsome hunter in the universe, this Terrorcon leader converts into a monstrous looking 1994 Peterbilt 359, with four exhausts belching black smoke into the air, and a horrifying, maw-like front grill. Ruthless, cunning, treacherous and incredibly powerful, Scourge commands the Terrorcons on the mission of annihilation they have carried out for thousands of years across thousands of worlds, leaving nothing but chaos and ruin in their wake.
Combat abilities: Scourge is as patient as he is fierce and ferocious – a deadly combination. The ultimate Autobot-hunting machine, he has a giant electric claw and devastating blade. He also has a collection of six-legged Terrorcon Freezers – mechanical insectoids that can sniff out his prey.
Voiced by: Peter Dinklage
BATTLETRAP
This elite Terrorcon scout and enforcer transforms into a blood orange and black GMC with a rear-mounted crane for dragging the carcasses of his defeated enemies away.
Combat abilities: In the spirit of his considerable appetite for destruction, Battletrap’s left fist is capable of unleashing an electrified flail – a huge ball on a chain designed for maximum carnage.
Voiced by: David Sobolov
NIGHTBIRD
A Terrorcon ninja, Nightbird is the ultimate assassin that converts into a jet-black Nissan Skyline GTR R33, with a suitably shadowy matt copper trim.
Combat abilities: An enemy you don’t see coming until it’s too late, Nightbird is armed with twin katanas and an ability to attack her victims in deadly silent strikes.
Voiced by: Michaela Jaé Rodriguez
THE DEITY
UNICRON
Known as a devourer of planets, Unicron uses the energy from the ecosystems he’s ingested to become the most omnipotent force in the multiverse. An embodiment of evil, Unicron’s primary function is to bring chaos and ruin, and he uses the Terrorcons to accomplish this mission.
Combat abilities: Unicron is an ever so hungry deity so large it can consume entire other worlds – and all life on them.
Voiced by: Colman Domingo
THE HUMANS
NOAH
Noah is an ex-military electronics expert who, in his pursuit to help provide for his family, becomes a reluctant hero in the war between enormous extra-terrestrial bots that could end humanity as we know it.
Combat abilities: He’s brave even when the odds are massively against him.
Played by: Anthony Ramos
ELENA
A keen but largely underappreciated artifacts researcher working at the New York Museum of Archaeology, Elene has a passion for mankind’s history that might just safeguard its future.
Combat abilities: Terrorcons or not, Elena isn’t one to back down from a fight – especially one that can save the world.
Played by: Dominique Fishback
About Transformers: Rise of the Beasts
Returning to the action and spectacle that have captured moviegoers around the world, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts will take audiences on a ’90s globetrotting adventure with the Autobots and introduce a whole new breed of Transformer – the Maximals – to join them as allies in the existing battle for earth. Directed by Steven Caple Jr. and starring Anthony Ramos and Dominique Fishback, the film arrives in theaters June 7.
The screenplay is by Joby Harold and Darnell Metayer & Josh Peters and Erich Hoeber & Jon Hoeber, story by Joby Harold, based on Hasbro’s Transformers™ Action Figures.
Produced by Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Tom DeSanto & Don Murphy, Michael Bay, Mark Vahradian, Duncan Henderson.
The film stars Anthony Ramos, Dominique Fishback, Tobe Nwigwe, Peter Cullen, Ron Perlman, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, Liza Koshy, John DiMaggio, David Sobolov, Michaela Jae Rodriguez, Pete Davidson, Cristo Fernández.
This is just a teaser of what’s in store for you in “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts”. As new friendships are formed and rivalries resurface, one thing is certain – it’s going to be a ride you won’t forget. Buckle up and let’s roll out!
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Connect with #Transformers #RiseOfTheBeasts and tag @paramountpicsph
Photo & Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
ASUS, globally recognized as the premier OLED laptop brand, made an exciting announcement on May 18, 2023: the launch of three ultra-thin, light-weight Zenbook laptops. The Zenbook S 13 OLED (UX5304), Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (UP3404), and Zenbook Pro 14 OLED (UX6404) were unveiled at the Zenbook OLED Series: Incredibly Slim and More event.
Leading the 2023 Zenbook series is the Zenbook S 13 OLED, showcasing ASUS’s commitment to creating technologically advanced products that strive to minimize environmental impact. The launch of these new laptops marks a momentous occasion, propelling Zenbook’s legacy into a new era of ultraportability.
Each model is uniquely designed with ultra-thin and light features, delivering powerful and uncompromised performance thanks to the industry-leading 13th Gen Intel® Core™ Processor with Intel® Evo™ verification. Coupled with the vibrant ASUS Lumina OLED display and Military Grade Standard durability, these laptops are engineered for optimal user experience.
“The new 2023 Zenbook series offers incredible and uncompromised performance designed to empower every Filipino individual to help them achieve their goals. We are confident that the 2023 Zenbook series can provide more with less harm to our environment, adhering to the Zenbook heritage and taking ASUS to a brand new milestone,” says ASUS Philippines Country Manager George Su.
Incredibly Slim and Vibrant Lumina OLED for all
The new 2023 Zenbook series features the new ASUS Lumina OLED Display. It promises a more accurate, adaptive, and reliable laptop experience while giving a visual marvel experience. In addition, users can activate the ASUS OLED Care screensaver to prevent OLED screen aging using the MyASUS app.
ASUS Lumina OLED technology is available and exclusive across the new ASUS Zenbook series. It lets you enjoy an incredible viewing experience with a high contrast ratio, deeper blacks, fast response time, and a 70% less blue light reduction that protects users from eye strain. To know more about the benefits of this technology, check it here Why ASUS Lumina OLED.
Incredibly Slim for every new gen of Filipino individual
Perfect for on-the-go professionals, the ultra-thin and light Zenbook S 13 OLED (UX5304) is the world’s slimmest OLED ultraportable laptop weighing only 1 kilogram with a 1-centimeter thin body.
With the growing trend for work and life balance, this new Zenbook was designed to have a sophisticated ceramic-coated look and feel, ideal for people needing a reliable, attractive, and timeless device anywhere and any time of the day. Slim as a pen, the new Zenbook S 13 OLED is 30% slimmer with more features to give the best user experience, using fewer materials as compared to the previous models.
Adhering to ASUS’ philosophy of responsible innovation, ASUS is also joining the movement and leaping to produce sustainable devices in the long run. The all-new Zenbook S 13 OLEDuses recycled materials in its design, including post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastics, post-industrial recycled (PIR) aluminum, and PIR magnesium alloy.
This device is the most eco-friendly Zenbook ever made, reducing its carbon footprint by 50%. To complement its longer product life cycle, the packaging of this new Zenbook is 100% recyclable with reusable and compostable materials.
As a commitment to do more with less through the Zenbook series, ASUS is joining forces with CORA Philippines, a non-profit organization founded by celebrity and United Nations Goodwill Ambassador Antoinette Taus. CORA is dedicated to creating sustainable programs that help solve issues centered on poverty, hunger, inequality, and climate change that directly affects underprivileged Filipinos. With this partnership, ASUS and CORA aim to promote the importance of creating sustainable programs to conserve the environment and the lives of future Filipinos through a series of activities.
The Zenbook S 13 OLED (UX5304) comes in an eco-friendly Basalt Gray color with a starting price of PHP 79,995.00. It will be available with up to Intel® Core™ i7 processor,16 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage.
Incredibly Slim for every multi-talented individual
Truly a unique laptop that could give a versatile performance, the new Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (UP3404) would suit you, whether you’re masculine or feminine, because of its convertible and stylish design.
This new Zenbook is the most versatile and incredibly slim with its thin and light form factor. It is capable of a 360° hinge that allows the device in four different modes: Laptop, Tent, Stand, or Tablet, which offers users a wide range of options to work or relax anytime.
Content sharing will now be easier and faster with the Tablet Mode, keeping up with the demands of the digital world can be faster using the Stand Mode, convenience is within your fingertips because of the Laptop Mode, and relaxing after a long day is now possible because of the Tent Mode.
The Zenbook 14 Flip OLED also features a touchscreen ASUS Lumina OLED display. making this device a truly reliable work partner. Upon purchase, the Zenbook 14 Flip OLED will also come with an ASUS Pen 2.0 to replicate the natural feeling of having a real-life pen.
The ASUS 2.0 produces the finest lines and the broadest brush strokes on sketches, and it will also be easier and faster to work or present anytime time of the day.
The Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (UP3404) comes in a premium Ponder Blue color, and it will be available with a starting price ofPHP 74,995.00. It will be available with up to an Intel® Core™ i7 processor,16 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage.
Incredibly Slim and compact for every creative digital nomad
One of the winning products during the 2023 Red Dot Product design, the newZenbook Pro 14 OLED (UX6404) is a compact, thin and light creator laptop packed with features a creative professional needs.
This new creator Zenbook boasts the latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 4060 GPU with NVIDIA Studio Drivers for content creators, making it a reliable tool for faster rendering, photo or video editing, and a more efficient multitasking experience.
For a seamless and precise editing experience for creative professionals, this new Zenbook Pro has the ASUS DialPad technology customized for Adobe Creative software, now also compatible with other applications. It also features ASUS IceCool Pro thermal technology to ensure the device stays cool and efficient during heavy-duty applications.
As an additional feature, this new Zenbook Pro Creator laptop will have a dedicated MUX Switch to reduce the latency and increase the response time for 3D applications, and perfect for casual gaming on the side.
The Zenbook Pro 14 OLED (UX6404)comes in a premium Tech Black color for PHP 139,995.00. It will be available with an Intel® Core™ i9 processor, 32 GB of RAM, and 1 TB of storage.
Incredibly Slim, powerful, and durable
For an ultimate and powerful laptop experience, these three new Incredibly Slim Zenbook laptops boast an industry-leading 13th Gen Intel® Core™ Processor and Intel® Evo™ Certification. With this Intel technology, users are assured that they will not experience any hiccups at any time of the day.
The 2023 Zenbook series is ultra-durable. For 2023, ASUS doubled the Military Grade Standard testing, which means these new Zenbook series have a longer lifespan as compared to the previous models. It underwent 26 rigorous and ultra-demanding procedures and 12 testing methods to ensure that the device will survive every environmental condition that you face every day.
Lastly, these new Zenbook laptops will have two years of ASUS Global Warranty, as well as an additional ASUS Platinum Protection warranty for one year starting from the date of purchase, making it perfect for users traveling abroad with their new Zenbooks. ASUS also has 69 service centers nationwide if you ever run into any problems with your new Zenbook.
Availability & Pricing in the Philippines
The all-new 2023 Zenbook series will have a starting price of PHP 74,995.00 and will be available through Home Credit with up to 18 months of flexible payment terms with 0% interest in-store for ASUS Fans. Learn more about these Incredible Slim laptops, you may check the official page of Where to buy: ASUS OLED Laptops, or you may follow the official social media pages of ASUS.
ASUS‘s vision goes beyond performance and user experience. The new Zenbook lineup also signifies a leap towards eco-friendly and sustainable technological advancements, truly redefining what it means to be an ultraportable laptop in the 21st century.
Manila, brace yourselves! Tyler Rake lives and he’s bound for our city! Netflix surprised us today with the delightful news that Chris Hemsworth, reprising his role as Tyler Rake in “Extraction 2,” will touch down in Manila on June 5. Alongside him will be Sam Hargrave, the film’s director, for the APAC red carpet premiere of this adrenaline-fueled action and adventure sequel.
In a recent video, Chris couldn’t contain his excitement about his upcoming visit. “I’ll be flying to Manila this June for the premiere of EXTRACTION 2 where I play Tyler Rake. I don’t want you to miss out so please come join me. It’ll be fun.” The blockbuster actor shared his excitement, adding, “Can’t wait to see you all there soon. Take care.”
Following a narrow escape from death in the first movie, Rake returns as the hardened Australian black ops mercenary, shouldered with another hazardous mission: liberating the embattled family of a formidable Georgian gangster from the high-security prison where they’re incarcerated.
Hemsworth reunites with director Sam Hargrave, under Joe and Anthony Russo’s AGBO Productions. Joe Russo penned the script, with Golshifteh Farahani reprising her role from the first film. Adam Bessa, Olga Kurylenko, Daniel Bernhardt, and Tinatin Dalakishvili join the roster, bringing fresh faces to the thrilling saga.
“Extraction 2” springs from the first film, which found its inspiration in the graphic novel ‘Ciudad’ by Ande Parks. The story was spun by Ande Parks, Joe Russo & Anthony Russo, with Fernando León González adding his artistic flair with illustrations. The sequel is produced by an impressive lineup including Anthony Russo, Joe Russo, Mike Larocca, Angela Russo-Otstot, Chris Hemsworth, Patrick Newall, and Sam Hargrave. Jake Aust, Benjamin Grayson, Steven Scavelli, Christopher Markus, and Stephen McFeely serve as executive producers.
Netflix will drop “Extraction 2” globally on June 16. Be ready to embark on another electrifying adventure!
Pandora announces the Disney x Pandora The Little Mermaid collection, Journey Beyond the Sea, celebrating the all-new Disney movie, which screens in Philippine cinemas beginning May 24. The collection captures the essence of friendship and adventure, with designs that bring to life new perspectives of the reimagined classic, championing female empowerment and independence.
The seven-piece collection launches May 25, with styles including 14K gold-plated Seashell Stud Earrings detailed with realistic grooved lines and set with a luminous white lacquered artificial pearl at the center, and a 14K gold-plated Shell Dangle Charm, engraved with the message “My voice is a treasure” on the spiral. With “mermaidcore” being such a big style trend, the newest collection allows fashion followers to always be on their mermaid era.
Pandora has shared Disney’s treasured classics over almost a decade of partnership, crafting and reimagining them into wearable stories. The new The Little Mermaid collection furthers this collaboration and highlights Pandora’s efforts to empower people to express themselves through personalization, allowing them to reflect who they are.
Pandora SVP Creative Directors A. Filippo Ficarelli and Francesco Terzo shaped a collection centered around Ariel’s fearless spirit and sense of freedom. “Our inspiration was drawn from the diverse characters and unlikely friendships that empower Ariel’s story,” Ficarelli said. Terzo added: “We hope these designs are a reminder for our fans to approach life with curiosity.”
Empowering women and girls sit at the core of Pandora’s values. In realizing this mission, Pandora participates in global forums and supports global charity partners that enable more women and girls to realize their potential.
Pandora is also a signatory of the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) established by the UN Global Compact and UN Women. The set of principles offers guidance to businesses on how to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment in the workplace, marketplace and amongst community. The Disney x Pandora Little Mermaid collection will be revealed and available for sale in global Pandora stores and online from May 25th, aligned with the launch of Disney’s live action film.
Behind the fun and active lifestyle at Tivoli Royale Country Club is a food culture that openly embraces familiar and straightforward dishes. But what makes its banner restaurant, Royale Lounge worth the trip is its latest array of new menu items designed to bring the whole family to the table.
From the comforting to the nostalgic, with something bright and cheerful in between, the new menu is all about collective experiences of “unforgettable food that we tried at some point in our lives, learned to love and regularly crave for” according to Tivoli Royale Country Club General Manager, Cherryl Go.
THE WORLD IN A PLATE
For starters, the Louisiana-inspired Po’ Boy (Php420) by Executive Chef Jonnel Roxas is a must-try. A hearty submarine sandwich with crispy chunks of deep-fried freshwater shrimp coated in the cajun spice blend, topped with pickle relish and remoulade sauce. Encased in warm and crusty Pistolet bread, it is sensationally satisfying and cooked to order to ensure freshness.
The Beef Steak Sandwich (Php400) is a Philly cheese steak-inspired recipe using crusty French bread that imparts the same comforting experience aptly adjusted to Filipino taste buds. Another favorite rendition of Chef Jonnel, the tender and toothsome sirloin beef with smothered onions, pickles, and smoked cheese sauce, has a more nuanced flavor that breathes new life to this less complicated, deliciously ideal lunchtime lift.
Rice lovers will surely find Sous Chef Jomhar Marcial’s Nasi Goreng (P550) inspiring enough to propel anyone out of bed. Cooked in a wok, this Indonesian rice delicacy with chicken satay is still anchored on tradition. But a twist comes from the punctuated touch of Filipino flavoring by adding pickled papaya as a side dish into the mix. Tucking the generous mound of rice in a scrambled egg provides another layer of satiating surprise and something extra in every bite.
In essence, their slow-cooked stew is one of the definitive examples of comfort in a bowl. But for Chef Jonnel whose hands and palate were extensively trained for Mediterranean cuisine, his Mediterranean Lamb Stew (P1,050) is a milder version and tailored for the Filipino gourmand. The careful method involves double sautéing the young lamb to get rid of the peculiar odor and immediately following through with another sautéing process in onion, garlic, ginger, and spices. Moreover, the 3-hour stewing process results in an earthy, heavy but balanced flavor, finished with fresh spinach and fiber-rich chickpeas. It is best served with steamed rice.
Another popular dish to fuel active and wellness-conscious diners is the Pan Seared Mahi-Mahi (P600): a tropical saltwater fish marked with meatiness, succulence, and flakiness. Pan searing, allows the mahi mahi to be cooked quickly and to bring out a crusted layer. Additionally, by cooking it twice in the oven, the other side of the fish becomes soft and tender, which adds another layer of texture. Paired with mesclun greens, refreshing fruit chutney, and a slice of lemon, look forward to a clean-tasting spark of flavor without being calorie-laden.
CLASSIC FAMILY-FAVORITES
Another batch of hearty viands that merits an order is Royal Lounge’s latest selection of family favorites.
Start off with the Country Fried Chicken (P600), marked by its garlicky flavor just the way most Filipinos love. Paired with peppery pan gravy, it makes the perfect go-to meal for lunch or dinner and surely hits the spot whenever, wherever.
Surprise, surprise! Royal Lounge’s Pork Dinuguan (Php500) is wholesome and welcoming, favoring an umami-rich taste marked by its perfect balance of saltiness and acidity. This thick and grainy stew is unlike any other as the recipe uses only the freshest ingredients, developed and enhanced by one of Royal Lounge’s chefs whose specialty is all about Filipino-forward dishes and who can cook everything with consistency and preciseness.
Adding to the list is Gising-Gising (Php350), meant for those who are partial to coconut dishes with a spicy kick. A recipe devoted to playing with textures beginning from the winged beans (sigarilyas) and tender and bite-sized pork slices. It’s topped with pineapple bits to add a light sour note but still provides a taste of home.
FOR THE KIDS AND KIDS-AT-HEART
Cheesy Macaroni (Php350) is basically a hug on a plate but Royal Lounge’s version lives up to its decadent cheesiness. The ultimate comfort food and lavished with creamy goodness, it’s essentially restorative any time of the day.
Whether as a snack or appetizer, the Mozzarella Sticks (Php320) appeal both to the heart and taste buds. Paired with marinara sauce, it complements its gooey, melty, and crispy texture.
For a sweet ending, the Choco Lava Cake (P380) is decadent but not cloying. A chocolate lover’s dream with a warm and molten center, the topping is liberally dusted with Bianca sugar for an absolute indulgent treat and will go down well with black coffee or tea.
If leaning towards a fruity and flaky option, the Mango Tartlet (P380) heeds the call. This dessert treat is made of whipped cream, caramel, almonds, and mangoes that provide a classic comfort feel in this sweet, tarty, and nutty mix.
“Our new menu is a collaboration of our chefs and at the same time based on what diners are looking for. We don’t want our restaurant to remain a secret and patrons can surely expect the same consistency and quality in our banquet menu,” adds Cherryl.
For the ideal setting in a relaxed, inclusive, and accessible outdoor dining experience, visit the Royale Lounge on the 3rd level of Tivoli Royale. You will never be on the lookout again for a dining destination that puts a premium on value-for-money, 5-star hotel quality in every dish that it offers. And not necessarily in the order!
Hold on to your seats, because “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning – Part One” just unveiled an adrenaline-pumping trailer that’s sure to thrill fans. Hitting Philippine cinemas on July 12, the latest installment in the beloved franchise stars Tom Cruise, who returns as Ethan Hunt to take on yet another perilous mission.
Paramount Pictures and Skydance present a Tom Cruise Production, a film directed by Christopher McQuarrie that brings the iconic television series created by Bruce Geller to life. Produced by Tom Cruise and Christopher McQuarrie, with executive producers David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Don Granger, and Tommy Gormley, this action-packed film promises non-stop excitement.
Joining Tom Cruise on this daring adventure are Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Rebecca Ferguson, Vanessa Kirby, Hayley Atwell, Shea Whigham, Pom Klementieff, Esai Morales, Henry Czerny, Rob Delaney, Cary Elwes, Indira Varma, Mark Gatiss, Charles Parnell, Greg Tarzan Davis, and Frederick Schmidt. With an all-star cast like this, there’s no doubt that “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning – Part One” will deliver high-stakes action and heart-stopping moments.
So, mark your calendars and gear up for the action-packed cinematic experience of “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning – Part One,” exploding onto Philippine screens this July 12th!
I actually haven’t seen any of the films in the ‘Fast and the Furious’ franchise since the first movie, and the second half of the second movie when it was playing on the tv of a meeting room I was in that I was waiting to start. I know nothing outside of the franchise’s origins other than who was starring in it when the trailers would play in the cinemas or on YouTube. So coming into ‘Fast X’ was a little intimidating, knowing that it is the finale of the franchise, the tenth overall (eleventh if you count the spinoff ‘Fast and Furious presents: Hobbs & Shaw’) and that there might be things that I was going to miss out in the experience.
But I had nothing to fear. With only having seen the first movie, half of the second movie, and seeing the trailers of the various other installments, I was quickly able to catch up as the story unfolds: Dominic Torreto (Vin Diesel) appears to be settling down with his wife Letty (Michelle Rodriguez) and his son, Brian (Leo Abelo Perry), with his crew taking on a mission without him but someone from his past (namely a retelling of events from ‘Fast Five’ with new material shot and mixed with archived footage that includes the late Paul Walker to include him into the finale) has come back to threaten Dominic and the things he most cares about, his family.
As a finale, ‘Fast X’ goes personal as Jason Momoa’s Dante Reyes is out for revenge against Dominic and his team. He lost everything to Dominic and he’s out for payback, and in the grandest way possible. The agency gets mixed up, the team is split apart, and everyone is scrambling to gather together as “lines are drawn” and people are “forced to choose a side” as it is stated and everyone and anyone who played a major part in the franchise is either mentioned or referred to or makes an appearance.
Fast X, directed by Louis Leterrier.
As someone who was very dismissive of the ‘Fast and the Furious’ franchise, I actually had a lot of fun in ‘Fast X.’ So much fun that I’m willing to go and search out ‘The Fate of the Furious’ and ‘F9’ just to see Charlize Theron’s earlier installments. ‘Fast X’ is the kind of campy big budget action film that doesn’t sweat the details. During all the complicated car chases around various cities in the film, there’s a whole lot of property damage but somehow all the pedestrians manage to get out unscathed from the explosions and the stuff. The bad guys and maybe some policemen, on the other hand, never make it. The good guys, though, always do. It’s the kind of film where the laws of physics don’t really work out realistically and the good guys can manage to swing large, heavy building parts that are strapped to speeding cars by doing drifts and hitting their target as if they’ve been practicing this all their lives.
Vin Diesel is Dom in FAST X, directed by Louis Leterrier
There is a brainlessness that’s fun in ‘Fast X.’ I’m never actually worried about any of them because the film talks a lot about the risks and the dangers but everything moves in clockwork and even the dialogue tells us what’s happening and reminds us that Vin Diesel’s Dominic Torreto is so cool. In fact, Jason Momoa’s Dante Reyes, who hates Dominic so much, is throwing compliments at him left and right. It almost feels like it was placed on the script to help Vin Diesel look cool.
Jason Momoa is Dante in FAST X, directed by Louis Leterrier
Because, unfortunately, the most bland thing about the movie is Vin Diesel. In an effort to look cool at all times, his character ends up becoming uninteresting. Instead, I’m enjoying watching everybody else when they get a turn – every time Michelle Rodriguez and Charlize Theron are in a scene, it ends up becoming explosive; Ludacris and Nathalie Emmanuel are charming (not so much Tyrese Gibson, who oversells what feels like the typical ‘dumb but arrogant character’ that Roman is written as); even Brie Larson and Alan Ritchson, who both make their debut in the franchise, gets the whole tone of the film and has fun with it – and trust me, they all get a turn to do something cool or crazy.
But the one who is eating up the scenery is Jason Momoa, who is approaching his Dante Reyes with so much gusto that it goes overboard. I honestly don’t know if I like the performance or not. It feels so cartoon-y and way over the top, even for this movie, that he feels like he doesn’t belong in this film. And for some reason, as much as I can stand it, I think it works. It goes against everything that the ‘Fast and the Furious’ is all about. Momoa was allowed to play against type, balancing masculine and feminine gestures, and treating this like the campy 60s ‘Batman’ tv show with Adam West. It’s definitely a choice it allows him to not get swallowed up by everything else the movie throws at us.
Because with its reported huge budget, you are sure that ‘Fast X’ offers tons of action, tons of crazy car chases and car stunts, and a whole lot of explosions. The cast alone is explosive enough with a whole bunch of Oscar winners that was actually quite surprising like Larson, Theron, and even Helen Mirren (reprising her role as Queenie).
FAST X, directed by Louis Leterrier
Strange to be coming back into the franchise at its finale. But the way these movies are made and how they were meant to be enjoyed means that I didn’t miss much to still be able to enjoy what I got. I’m sure I’m missing a lot of details and inside jokes I’m missing but I still managed to enjoy myself. From what I’ve read, this finale is going to be in three parts, with ‘Fast X’ being the first of a trilogy that signals the end of the franchise. The film ends with a cliffhanger and some end credit surprises that I’m sure will get cheers and maybe even raised eyebrows from fans of the series. But as someone who is very late to the party, I don’t mind jumping in for the last two if it’s as fun and as light and easy as ‘Fast X.’
My Rating:
FAST Xis now showing in cinemas nationwide. Buy your ticketshere
It’s that time of the week again! Another exciting week as a new batch of movies hits theaters this week. From spine-chilling horror to heartwarming romance, there’s a story for everyone. We’ll also take a quick detour to revisit the crowd-pleasers that are still delighting audiences in theaters. Buckle up, movie buffs – it’s going to be a wild ride! Let’s speed into the weekly roundup of new movies opening this week.
True to its name, this film promises to be a high-octane thrill ride that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Can’t get enough of that need for speed? Then this might just be your ticket to adrenaline heaven.
Vin Diesel is Dom in FAST X, directed by Louis Leterrier
Over many missions and against impossible odds, Dom Toretto and his family have outsmarted, out-nerved and outdriven every foe in their path. Now, they confront the most lethal opponent they’ve ever faced: A terrifying threat emerging from the shadows of the past who’s fueled by blood revenge, and who is determined to shatter this family and destroy everything—and everyone—that Dom loves, forever.
This delightful dramedy hits all the right notes, serving a slice of life with a side of laughter and a dash of drama. Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too? Richardson, Reggie and Melvin have have been friends for many years despite working in different fields. They decided to go on a vacation, finding themselves in hilarious situations, but at the same time, they are able to address some family issues. Everything’s going perfectly well until the night Reggie collapses. And then it all comes crashing down.
For mystery enthusiasts, the “Detective Conan: TV Compilation – Mystery Train” might just be the ticket. This gripping compilation will make your hair stand on end as you join Conan in untangling the web of intrigue aboard the Mystery Train. Are you ready to embark on this thrilling journey? Shiho Miyano, a scientist from the Black Organization, develops the Apotoxin 4869, a drug that turns Shinichi Kudo into a child. When Shiho learns of her sister’s murder by the Organization, she defects, taking the drug herself. Now, as Ai Haibara, she must evade her pursuers. This spin-off features beloved episodes such as “Reunion with the Black Organization”, “The Mysterious Passenger”, and “The Jet-Black Mystery Train”, leading to a nail-biting climax. Will Ai Haibara survive the explosive confrontation? Find out in this thrilling saga, continuing to “The Black Iron Submarine”.
A man becomes determined to protect his family from a dark cult whose members come in the guise of perfect tenants.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
If you missed them the first time around, fear not! You can still catch some of the most popular films of recent weeks. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still playing in theaters:
That’s a wrap for this week’s movie guide. From new releases to ongoing hits, there’s a movie for everyone. So grab your popcorn, settle into your seat, and let the magic of the movies sweep you away!
Action icon Wu Jing has been very busy. Internationally acclaimed actor, director, and martial artist Wu Jing (“Wolf Warrior,” “Shaolin”) has been keeping himself quite occupied. As the month unfolds, this dynamic talent from China will grace the big screens once more in the prequel to the 2019 futuristic blockbuster, “The Wandering Earth.”
Baffling, isn’t it? How could Wu Jing return, given the ultimate destiny of his character in the original movie? Director Frant Gwo, through his ingenious creativity, found the perfect solution. “Wu provided us with a lot of selfless help in the first installment,” said Gwo in an interview with China.org.cn. “I wanted to show gratitude to him, but I didn’t want to write some unconvincing plot about his resurrection. So, I said, let’s do a prequel.”
Eager for a sneak peek? Catch the trailer for “The Wandering Earth II” right here:
In a conversation with Global Times promoting the first film, Jing expressed his hope that “The Wandering Earth” would ignite the spark of science in young minds. Being a father himself, it’s no wonder that Jing eagerly agreed to be a part of the prequel.
In “The Wandering Earth II,” after learning that the sun is rapidly burning out and will obliterate Earth in the process, humans build enormous engines to propel the planet to a new solar system, far out of reach of the sun’s fiery flares. However, the journey out into the universe is perilous, and humankind’s last shot at survival will depend on a group of young people brave enough to step up and execute a dangerous, life-or-death operation to save the earth. The film, to be released by Warner Bros. Pictures exclusively in cinemas in the Philippines on May 31, also stars international star Andy Lau.
Aside from this much-anticipated prequel, Jing will captivate fans in another eagerly-awaited sequel, “Meg 2: The Trench,” hitting the cinemas on August 2.
Helmed by Frant Gwo and co-scripted by Gong Ge’er, “The Wandering Earth II” – the prequel to the acclaimed “The Wandering Earth” – brings to life the narrative envisioned by author Liu Cixin.
The film showcases a stellar ensemble cast featuring Andy Lau, Wu Jing, Li Xuejian, Sha Yi, Ning Li, Wang Zhi, and Zhu Yanmanzi.
Set to premiere on May 31, “The Wandering Earth II” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.
