“Mira is a very gentle character,” says Chopra Jonas. “I’ve played some very tough characters, so I was looking forward to tapping into my vulnerable side, reaching into the deep places in the heart. I’m a Cancer and a massive romantic – I really do believe in love and goodness. As cheesy as it might sound, it makes the world go around.”
Love Again tells the story of Mira Ray, a talented children’s book author and illustrator who deals with the loss of her fiancé by sending a series of romantic texts to his old cell phone number – without knowing that the number is currently being used by a different guy. Love Again, which also stars Sam Heughan and Celine Dion, opens exclusively in SM Cinemas on May 10.
“Priyanka has such a powerful presence,” says Jim Strouse, writer and director of the movie. “She’s the beating heart and soul of this film. You really feel what she feels.”
“Priyanka was one of the first people to read the script about two years ago,” says producer Esther Hornstein. “She’s such a strong person, and she made sure that her character wasn’t passive – that she’s in charge of her own life, figuring things out and doing it her own way. Priyanka also put such care to actually making sure that her character doesn’t feel like a stereotype, which is doubly important because I’m told that Love Again is the first global feature with an Indian woman in the lead role.”
Before meeting her magical match in Rob (played by Heughan), Chopra Jonas’s Mira Ray goes on a couple of dates that don’t pan out. And thanks to a fun casting choice, movie audiences get to see Chopra Jonas go on an epic fail movie date with her real-life husband, Nick Jonas, who plays a cameo role in the film. “We’ve done a few things before here and there, but never a full scene,” shares Jonas about his brief role. “It was a great, new experience for us.”
Love Again is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #LoveAgainMovie
Netflix is bringing a spectacular lineup of shows and films this May 2023 that will keep you glued to your screen. From royal tales to heartwarming stories and thrilling action, there’s something for everyone in this month’s exciting roster.
If you’re the kind who needs to plot your binge-watching schedules for the month, worry not, because we’re giving you a rundown of the most awaited shows and films on Netflix Philippines this month. So, buckle up and get ready to embark on a cinematic journey with these ten must-watch titles arriving on Netflix this May 2023!
Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story May 4 | Watch it here Starring: India Amarteifio, Adjoa Andoh, Michelle Fairley Creators:Shonda Rhimes
Get ready to dive back into the world of Bridgerton with this highly anticipated spin-off! Young Queen Charlotte’s marriage to King George of England sparks an epic love story and transforms high society in this “Bridgerton” universe prequel. Don’t miss out on the drama, romance, and intrigue that await!
Royalteen: Princess Margrethe (2023) May 11 | Watch it here Starring: Elli Müller Osborne, Sammy Germain Wadi, Amalie Sporsheim Directed by Ingvild Søderlind
Experience the fairy tale life of Princess Margrethe in this heartwarming coming-of-age story. As she navigates the challenges of growing up royal, Princess Margrethe discovers the true meaning of friendship, love, and responsibility. Will she find her happily ever after?
Black Knight (Season 1) May 12 | Watch it here Starring: Kim Woo-bin, Song Seung-heon, Kang You-seok Creators: Cho Ui-seok, Shin Yeon-ju, Kim Hyun-deok
In a dystopian 2071 devastated by air pollution, the survival of humanity depends on the Black Knights—and they’re far from your average delivery men.
The Mother May 12 | Watch it here Starring: Jennifer Lopez, Joseph Fiennes, Gael García Bernal
A military-trained assassin comes out of hiding to protect the daughter she’s never met from ruthless criminals gunning for revenge.
Working: What We Do All Day(Documentary) May 17 | Watch it here Executive produced by Barack and Michelle Obama and directed by Caroline Suh
What brings you joy in work? What gives you purpose? What makes a good job…good? These are the questions at the center of WORKING: WHAT WE DO ALL DAY, a compelling documentary series that explores the ways in which we find meaning in our work and how our experiences and struggles connect us on a human level. Narrated by President Barack Obama, who makes appearances alongside everyday people in their homes and places of work, the series follows individuals at all levels of the workforce — from service jobs all the way up to the C-suite — across the industries of home care, tech, and hospitality. As a college student, Obama was inspired by Studs Terkel’s 1974 book Working, which revolutionized the conversation around work by asking ordinary people what they did all day. The series brings this idea into the modern world by offering intimate, behind-the-scenes portraits of people’s lives and giving viewers a new understanding of and appreciation for the jobs they do each day.
XO, Kitty (Season 1) May 18 | Watch it here Starring: Anna Cathcart, Minyoung Choi, Gia Kim Creators: Jenny Han
From the creators of To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before comes a fresh new series, XO, Kitty. Follow the adventures of Kitty Song Covey as she navigates the trials and tribulations of love, friendship, and self-discovery in high school. Get ready to fall in love with this charming coming-of-age tale.
MerPeople dives into the fascinating world of underwater performers who have turned their love for the mystical sea creatures into real-world careers. From putting on dazzling small-town shows in Florida to the crowning of the King and Queen of the Seas in the Bahamas, this series will take you on a journey of passion and perseverance. Get ready to set sail on an unforgettable voyage and immerse yourself in a world where fantasy becomes reality.
Wanda Sykes: I’m an Entertainer May 23 | Watch it here Starring: Wanda Sykes
Wanda keeps the laughs coming in this razor-sharp follow-up to her Emmy-nominated stand-up special “Not Normal.”
FUBAR May 25 | Watch it here Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Monica Barbaro, Milan Carter Creators: Nick Santora
When a father and daughter learn that they’ve each secretly been working as CIA Operatives for years, they realize their entire relationship has been a lie and they truly don’t know one another at all. Forced to team up as partners, the series tackles universal family dynamics set against a global backdrop of spies, action and humor.
Siren: Survive the Island Coming Soon | Watch it here Creators: Lee Eun-kyung
24 female police officers, firefighters, bodyguards, soldiers, athletes and stuntwomen team up by profession to compete for survival on a remote island.
With this fantastic lineup of new movies and series, Netflix is sure to keep you entertained throughout May 2023. So, grab your popcorn, snuggle up on the couch, and get ready to indulge in these binge-worthy titles. Remember, there’s something for everyone on Netflix, so don’t be afraid to explore beyond this list and find your next favorite film or show. Happy streaming!
Returning series regulars include Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon, Kristin Davis, Sara Ramírez, Sarita Choudhury, Nicole Ari Parker, Karen Pittman, Mario Cantone, David Eigenberg, Evan Handler, Christopher Jackson, Niall Cunningham, Cathy Ang and Alexa Swinton.
The series is executive produced by Michael Patrick King, John Melfi, Julie Rottenberg, Elisa Zuritsky, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kristin Davis and Cynthia Nixon. Writers included King, Samantha Irby, Susan Fales-Hill, Lucas Froehlich, Rachel Palmer, Julie Rottenberg and Elisa Zuritsky. Directors included King, Cynthia Nixon, Ry Russo-Young and Julie Rottenberg. The HBO series Sex and the City was created by Darren Star and based on the book Sex and the City by Candace Bushnell.
Stream or download And Just Like That… Season 1 on HBO GO and catch Season 2 from June. Subscribe to HBO GO online at https://www.hbogoasia.ph/ or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store for only ₱1,190 on the 12-month plan. Or access HBO GO via Cignal, Globe and Skycable. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality.
Global sports brand PUMA marks its bold foray into the Philippine basketball market by naming Kai Sotto as its first Filipino baller to serve as the newest global brand ambassador. The German sports brand revealed its partnership with the Filipino hooper import during its recently concluded autumn/winter collection preview party last April 19.
One of the best homegrown players from the Philippines, Kai is considered as one of the top basketball prospects in Asia and has a significant following among Filipino basketball fans the world over. His partnership with PUMA is set to strengthen the brand’s presence in the basketball scene and appeal to young consumers who identify with his talent, personality and style.
“His rising popularity and boundless potential in the local and international basketball scene is a testament to his hard work to make a name for himself and raise the Philippine flag on the world stage. Kai’s basketball career mirrors the PUMA brand values of bravery, confidence, determination and joy, all of which advance our FOREVER FASTER mantra,” said PUMA Philippines Country Manager Paolo Misa.
The former UAAP juniors champion and MVP left the Philippines in 2019 to pursue his NBA dreams and has since made an impressive stint in the international basketball scene as a Filipino import for club teams in Australia and Japan. Kai signed with Adelaide 36ers of Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL) from 2021 to 2022. Today, the 7-foot-3 Pinoy import is playing with the Hiroshima Dragonflies of Japan B.League. The Filipino basketball community hopes for his return to suit up for Gilas Pilipinas to help the country’s campaign at the FIBA World Cup this year.
“My style and story as an athlete has always been about getting faster and better in every game. I am proud to be part of a brand that represents both my story and the values that are inherent to Pinoys. I am excited and happy to be the new cat in the PUMA family,” said Kai.
PUMA’s partnership with Kai marks the start of the brand’s expansion plans in the market as a full subsidiary. As the first Filipino hooper to be part of the global PUMA family, Kai shares the excitement of his fans at home and looks forward to engaging with them and achieving even greater things with the fastest sports brand in the world.
In a true FOREVER FASTER fashion, the sports brand welcomed Kai as its newest global ambassador with a dedicated page on PUMA Philippine website. Fans can now visit the page to see Kai’s favorite PUMA collection such as suede classic sneakers, basketball shoes, hoodies, and sweatpants. Follow Kai Sotto and PUMA’s social media pages for thrilling news and updates about the collaboration.
As the Virgin Labfest (VLF) turns 18, it celebrates this milestone with 12 new plays from both veteran and upcoming playwrights. From June 7 to 25, 2023, the festival will take place at its brand-new home, the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (CCP Blackbox Theater). With the theme “Hitik,” the 18th VLF promises to overflow with new and exciting collaborations between veteran and virgin directors, designers, and actors.
A Diverse Lineup of Plays
Following the theme “Hitik,” the festival is filled to the brim with new and exciting collaborations with veteran and virgin directors, designers and actors. VLF 18 opens the curtains with four thematic sets of new one-act plays – Adulting 101 (Set A), REBELasyon (Set B), Y.O.LO. (Set C) and Muwang (Set D). We also bring back one set of revisited plays (Hinog / Set E), and two sets of staged readings.
Set A: Adulting 101 features: “O” by Raymund Barcelon, to be directed by Missy Maramara; “Regine: The Fairy Gaymother” by Chuck D. Smith collaborating with director Mark Daniel Dalacat, and “10 To Midnight” by playwright Juliene Mendoza and director Sarah Facuri.
Set B: REBELasyon is composed of “Ang Awit ng Dalagang Marmol” by playwright Andrew Estacio and director Nazer Salcedo; “Dominador Gonzales: National Artist” by playwright Dingdong Novenario and director George De Jesus; and “Tuloy Ang Palabas” by playwright Layeta Bucoy and director Tuxqs Rutaquio.
Set C: Y.O.L.O. brings to the stage “Room 209” by playwright Zheg Arban to be directed by Delphine Buencamino; “Hukay” by playwright Ophalain Margaux Serrano and director Melvin Lee; and “Mga Halimaw Rin Kami” by playwright Jules Pamisa and director Tat Soriano.
Plays in Set D: Muwang are: “Hawaii, Here We Come!” by playwright Shenn Apilado, directed by Mark Mirando; “O’Donnell” by playwright Jerry O’Hara and director Issa Manalo Lopez; and “Ang Tuyom” by playwright Marjay Manalastas and director Gio Potes.
Three plays from the 2022 edition of the theater festival will be revisited in Set E: Hinog, comprised of “Nay May Dala Akong Pansit” by playwright Juan Ekis and director Karl Jingco; “Punks Not Dead” by playwright Andrew Bonifacio Clete and director Roobak Valle and “Fermata” by playwright Dustin Celestino and director Antonette Go-Yadao.
After three years, the staged readings make a comeback this year, featuring the back-to-basics reading performances of selected scripts from the VLF18 submissions. For Staged Reading Set 1, “My Lover’s Presscon” by playwright Ross Manicad and director Katreen Dela Cruz back-to-back with “Kamay Ng Orasan” by playwright Marc Noesis Marquez and director Eljay Castro Deldoc.
Set 2 of Staged Readings features “Sino Ang Pumatay Kay Mr. Masangkay?” by playwright U Z. Eliserio and director Rolando T. Inocencio, and “TBT: Takbo, Batang Tondo” from playwright Mikaella Yoj B. Sanchez and director Chic San Agustin.
More Than Just Plays
Aside from the Staged Readings, the festival will also host Theater Talks featuring speakers on topics of interest to theater actors, practitioners, and enthusiasts. Plus, a Playwrights’ Fair will be held, where both young and veteran playwrights will share their experiences and writing journeys. The Staged Readings, Theater Talks, and Playwrights’ Fair will take place at the VLF Lounge at the TIG Basement, and these events are free to the public.
The Dynamic Duo Behind the Scenes
Under the leadership of festival directors Tess Jamias and Marco Viaña, theater fans can expect brave new works that showcase Filipino sensibilities and creativity. Established in 2005, VLF is a collaborative project of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, The Writer’s Bloc, and Tanghalang Pilipino.
Join the Celebration
For tickets and other inquiries, contact the CCP Box Office at salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph. Stay updated by following the official CCP, VLF, Writer’s Bloc, and Tanghalang Pilipino social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tiktok. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the exciting new chapter of the Virgin Labfest!
The countdown starts now. In one month, the highly anticipated action-adventure “The Wandering Earth II,” prequel to the 2019 futuristic blockbuster “The Wandering Earth,” arrives in Philippine cinemas on May 31. Watch the trailer and embark on a riveting journey through space and time.
In the near future, 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.
Directed by Frant Gwo, with a screenplay by Frant Gwo and Gong Ge’er, “The Wandering Earth II” (a prequel to the 2019 futuristic blockbuster “The Wandering Earth”) is based on the book by Liu Cixin.
A Stellar Cast Brings the Story to Life
The film stars Andy Lau, Wu Jing, Li Xuejian, Sha Yi, Ning Li, Wang Zhi, and Zhu Yanmanzi. Led by a talented ensemble of actors, “The Wandering Earth II” promises to deliver breathtaking performances that will captivate audiences. With the likes of Andy Lau, Wu Jing, and Li Xuejian headlining the cast, moviegoers are in for a cinematic treat that will leave them on the edge of their seats.
A Prequel with a Purpose
As a prequel, “The Wandering Earth II” delves deeper into the backstory of the original film, providing movie enthusiasts with a richer understanding of the events leading up to the epic space odyssey. The narrative focuses on the characters’ motivations, the challenges they face, and the sacrifices they make for the greater good, making for a compelling tale that will resonate with fans of the first installment.
Not Just Another Sci-Fi Flick
The “Wandering Earth” franchise has managed to set itself apart from other sci-fi movies by successfully combining elements of action, adventure, and human drama. The result is a unique viewing experience that tugs at the heartstrings while also delivering mind-blowing visuals and adrenaline-pumping action sequences.
Get Ready for Takeoff
In cinemas on May 31, “The Wandering Earth II” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company. So, mark your calendars and prepare for a thrilling voyage through the cosmos that will leave you breathless and longing for more.
No doubt about it: for Filipino families, Mother’s Day is one of the biggest celebrations—a special day that honors our mom’s absolute love, filled with joy, some tears and laughter, and everything that comes in between. But how come we’re only celebrating our mothers only for one day a year? Our mothers’ love goes beyond just one special holiday, so it’s our turn to do the same. Show your appreciation daily with a heartwarming Goldilocks cake!
Sweet surprises for moms
And how can we do this? With a Goldilocks cake, of course! Goldilocks’ menu offers a wide variety of treats, perfect for making moms feel extra special. As the official Mother’s Day draws near, it’s our turn to make the mothers of our lives feel special with these two Goldilocks cake offerings that “The Best Ka, Ma!” With these treats, it’s easier to let our mom know they mean the world to us, whether it’s Mother Day or any day of the year.
A soft and silky cake for your mom
Celebrating your mom during their special day does not need to be complicated. Anything is special as long as it is expressed with love! The Goldilocks menu offers a bunch of mothers’ fave goodies specifically for this purpose. Choose among these Goldilocks products and see your mom—and everyone in the family—smile in delight. A Goldilocks day is always a special day, after all!
Give your mom a special sweet and light treat with the new Goldilocks Mango Dream (P690)! A triple layered chiffon cake filled with decadent buttercream and fresh mangoes, topped with mango icing, the Mango Dream is soft and silky—one that would make even the simplest moments with your mom the most memorable.
A sweet and filling cake for your mom—and everyone
Or if your mom likes it simple yet with a rich and decadent punch, there’s the Mom’s Choco Cake (P690). The Mom’s Choco Cake is a Mother’s Twist to the classic Goldilocks dedication cake, an 8×12 chocolate chiffon dedication cake with chocolate icing, big enough to serve an extended family of 18. It is topped with pastel flower designs.
And with the icing lettering of your message for your mom on top of the cake, it is a sweet way of making Mother’s Day more meaningful. But Mother’s Day is a celebration for everyone in the family, too. Celebrate with everyone with Goldilocks’ new Mom’s Bundle. The Mom’s Bundle (P1200) includes a Baked Lasagna and Mom’s Choco Cake (9’ round). It is a sweet and filling combination that is right for every occasion—and is a reason to celebrate in itself.
Celebrate your moms the way you like it with Goldilocks’ Mango Dream, Mom’s Choco Cake, and Mom’s Bundle, available starting April 15.
For more information on the new Mango Dream and their other Mother’s Day treats, follow Goldilocks on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You also order via Grabfood and Foodpanda, or through Goldilocks Delivery.
This May, Cinema One has rounded up some must-watch Filipino blockbusters to entertain you, so sit back and watch from the comfort of your homes! Get ready immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of emotions, chuckles, and cinematic magnificence. So, without any more delay, let’s reveal the treasures that Cinema One has in store for us this May 2023. Here are some films coming to Cinema One this month to add to your binge list:
Starring Piolo Pacual and Sarah Geronimo May 1, 7 PM
A story about an aspiring professional singer and a rock singer who collaborates in a song. As they work on their song, they start to develop feelings for each other. Music has the power to heal, and in “The Break-up Playlist,” witness two hearts mend through the melody of love. This enchanting romantic film will surely tug at your heartstrings and make you believe in the magic of second chances. Are you ready to sing along?
Starring Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto May 4, 7 PM
A girl named Mika decides to go on a road trip to look for aliens. During her trip, she accidentally bumps into Caloy whom she gives a free ride to until he reaches his destination. Mika then finds out that Caloy has cancer but despite it, he has learned to accept his fate. Both embark on a journey filled with adventures and misadventures not knowing they would fall in love with each other along the way. With breathtaking landscapes and an endearing love story, this film promises to lift your spirits and warm your heart. Will their love transcend the universe?
Starring John Lloyd Cruz and Jennylyn Mercado May 8, 5 PM
A one night stand becomes something much more for two people that don’t really like each other very much when the girl gets pregnant. In this heartwarming romantic comedy, “Just the 3 of Us” explores the complexities of life, love, and unexpected parenthood. Laughter and tears intertwine as two strangers navigate the delicate balance between personal ambitions and shared responsibilities. Will their love prevail?
Starring Jolina Magdangal, Karla Estrada and Melai Cantiveros May 16, 9 PM
Three women meet and their souls switched bodies, leaving them with no choice but to live each others’ lives while figuring out how to reverse the unfortunate event.
Starring Vice Ganda, Coco Martin, James Reid and Nadine Lustre May 31, 7 PM
Undercover agent Emman asks his former best friend Erika to take the place of an abducted beauty pageant contestant while he and his agency hunt for the kidnapping victim.
There you have it! Cinema One’s remarkable lineup for May 2023 is a treasure trove of unforgettable stories, powerful emotions, and captivating performances. Whether you’re in the mood for a good laugh, a heartwarming tale, or a spine-tingling thriller, there’s something for everyone in this stellar lineup. So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and prepare to embark on a cinematic journey like no other. Cinema One is ready to welcome you with open arms and an array of spellbinding films that will leave you wanting more.
Are you ready to experience the magic of these 10 phenomenal movies coming to Cinema One this May 2023? The only question left is: Which one will you watch first?
For more Cinema One movies this May and for daily schedules of Cinema One, click here.
[Note: Channel schedules and movie lineup are subject to change without prior notice]
Stream them lag-free using SKY Fiber’s Unli Broadband Super Speed Plans, which all have free speed boosts until December 31. For as low as P999/month, you can get the best value 20Mbps Plan boosted up to 30Mbps until the end of the year. You may also opt for faster speeds such as the 50Mbps Plan (P1,699/month) or 100Mbps Plan (P2,299/month) which have free boosted speeds of up to 150Mbps and 200Mbps respectively within the promo period.
With an unlimited high-speed internet subscription, you can join in the daily primetime bida craze on Kapamilya Online Live available via Facebook and YouTube.
Every night, hundreds of thousands of online viewers tune in to those platforms to watch the top-trending ABS-CBN series “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,” “The Iron Heart,” and “Dirty Linen.”
As these series fulfill audiences’ appetite for action and thrill, you can also fuel your adrenaline needs by subscribing to TapGO TV, a live TV and on-demand streaming service featuring live sports and a wide array of entertainment, available via SKY. Stream action-packed MMA with “UFC 288: Sterling vs Cejudo” on May 7, 8 a.m. or catch the best golfers in the “PGA Tour” on April 28 to May 1 for the Mexico Open tee off at Vidanta at 3:30 a.m., with replays at 2 p.m.
On the other hand, those looking for a light-hearted watch can check out the new ongoing iWantTFC original series “Teen Clash,” which revolved around a group of talented teens reaching for their rock band dreams. The series is continuously gaining traction online for its intriguing adaptation of the popular Wattpad novel of the same name. New episodes are being released every Friday at 8 p.m. on the iWantTFC app and website.
Easily catch up on the latest and hottest shows online when you’ve got a SKY Fiber Unli Broadband Plan. You can also receive free installation on May 1 until July 31 when you present one valid ID.
It was in April 2016 when Texas Roadhouse opened in the Philippine with their much-celebrated and legendary food and legendary service. It’s been seven years since and the restaurant continues to be widely-popular, serving their hand-cuts steaks, fall-off-the-bone ribs made-from-scratch sides and everyone’s favorite, their fresh-baked bread.
In celebration of this milestone, Texas Roadhouse is holding a special Two for you promotion featuring two of their signature dishes from April 28-May 4, 12 oz New York Striploin and Half-slab of Baby Back Ribs. Two for the price of one. Yee-Haw!!!
Avail this time limited only offer as well as other house specialties amidst an energetic vibe and occasional line dance performances by the staff.
Another exciting news is the upcoming openings of more branches this year. Watch out for these new branches: Two Meridien, BGC; SM Clark; McKinley Venice Grand Canal Mall; Sta Rosa; Glorietta and Cebu.
Cheers to many more years of great food and great ambiance.
