Christmas is coming early, but not without a little humbug.
Paramount Pictures has unveiled the official new trailer for “Ebenezer,” an upcoming holiday film starring Johnny Depp as Ebenezer Scrooge and directed by Ti West, best known for his X film trilogy.
Arriving in cinemas nationwide on December 2, the film puts a fresh spin on one of the most recognizable names in classic holiday storytelling.
Its intriguing promise says it all: “The name you know, the story you don’t.”
Watch the Official New Trailer for “Ebenezer”
The newly released trailer offers a closer look at Depp’s transformation into Scrooge while teasing the atmosphere, characters, and mystery surrounding this new interpretation.
Watch the trailer here:
Rather than simply retelling a familiar tale, “Ebenezer” appears set on giving audiences a different perspective on the famously cold-hearted character.
And with Ti West behind the camera, the film is already shaping up to be one of the more unexpected entries in this year’s holiday movie lineup.
The mix of established stars and rising talents gives “Ebenezer” plenty of screen presence, with each performer contributing to the film’s new take on the enduring Scrooge story.
For fans of Depp, the film also marks another major character-driven role, this time centered on a figure deeply associated with Christmas tradition.
Ti West Takes on a Holiday Classic
Known for films that lean heavily into atmosphere and character, Ti West brings an interesting creative choice to the project.
After directing the X trilogy, West now turns his attention to a much more familiar literary figure, but one that still leaves plenty of room for reinvention.
Executive producers include Ti West, Adam Bohling, David Reid, Stephen Deuters, Jason Forman, Pete Chiappetta, Anthony Tittanegro, and Andrew Lary.
When Does “Ebenezer” Open in Cinemas?
Moviegoers can catch “Ebenezer” exclusively in cinemas nationwide starting December 2.
With Johnny Depp taking on Scrooge, Ti West directing, and a loaded ensemble cast joining the production, the film looks ready to bring a distinctly different flavor to the Christmas movie season.
Watch the official trailer now and get ready to meet a Scrooge you may not know as well as you think.
October is shaping up to be one seriously busy month on HBO Max.
Whether you are in the mood for a chilling horror marathon, a fresh Korean romance, a gripping new drama, or a big-screen adventure from the Mushroom Kingdom, the streamer has plenty lined up to keep your watchlist full.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie | Courtesy of NBCUniversal l Nintendo l Illumination l HBO Max
And because October would not be complete without a few good scares, HBO Max is also rolling out a formidable Halloween lineup filled with slashers, supernatural horror, and modern fright-night favorites.
October Starts With a Scream
Horror fans will not have to wait long for their first major scare.
Scream 7 premieres on HBO Max on October 2, bringing the long-running slasher franchise back into the spotlight just in time for Halloween season. The film will also air on HBO on October 31 at 10pm, making it an appropriately spooky pick for Halloween night.
The scares do not stop there.
IT Welcome to Derry | Credit Brooke Palmer l HBO l HBO Max
In short, anyone planning a horror marathon this month will have no shortage of options.
Big Movies Take Over the Month
October is not all screams and shadows.
One of the month’s biggest family-friendly arrivals is The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, premiering October 16. The animated adventure features the voices of Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Jack Black, bringing more star power to the colorful world of Mario and company.
Before that, Brothers Under Fire arrives on October 9.
Later in the month, Forbidden Fruits premieres on October 24, starring Lili Reinhart and Lola Tung.
Scream 7 | Credit Jessica Miglio l Paramount Pictures l HBO Max
Featured Movies on HBO Max
Scream 7 – October 2 Also available on HBO on October 31 at 10pm
New Dramas, Animation, and Romance Arrive on HBO Max
Series fans also have plenty to look forward to.
The HBO Original drama War premieres on October 2 and will also be available on HBO at 9am. Then, on October 9, Rage returns for its second season.
For something completely different, Adventure Time: Side Quests arrives on October 5, bringing another animated adventure to the platform.
Fans of Asian dramas can mark October 15 on their calendars for Make Me Tingle, a new Korean romantic series joining the HBO Max lineup.
Make Me Tingle | Credit Studio Genie l Gleline l HBO Max
Meanwhile, new episodes of Baby Lemmings will premiere on October 12 and 26.
Featured Series on HBO Max
Strange: Junji Ito’s Tales for Sleepless Nights – October 2
HBO Original War – October 2
Adventure Time: Side Quests – October 5
HBO Original Rage Season 2 – October 9
Baby Lemmings new episodes – October 12 and 26
Make Me Tingle – October 15
Revisit Emmy-Winning Favorites
October is also a good excuse to catch up on some of HBO Max’s acclaimed titles.
Subscribers can revisit 2026 Emmy® winners including The Pitt, Hacks, and DTF St. Louis, alongside other award-winning favorites available on the platform.
There is also more to watch throughout the month.
MasterChef Asia Episode One | Credit HBO Max l TLC l Discovery
New episodes of MasterChef Asia arrive every Tuesday, while viewers can check out the new series Cupertino.
The HBO Original Call My Manager reaches its finale on October 1, while Fired Up! wraps up on October 16.
DC Studios fans can also look forward to Lanterns, arriving on October 5.
Reality TV Gets Spooky Too
If scripted scares are not enough, HBO Max is also bringing in a strong slate of reality and unscripted programming.
True crime takes center stage with ID’s Unmasking A Monster: Aileen Wuornos, premiering October 1, followed by The Serial Killer Connection on October 8.
For something lighter, Food Network’s Halloween Baking Championship Season 12 arrives on October 7, serving up elaborate desserts with plenty of seasonal flair.
Conspiracies & Coverups | Credit HBO Max
Featured Reality Series on HBO Max
ID’s Unmasking A Monster: Aileen Wuornos – October 1
Food Network’s Halloween Baking Championship Season 12 – October 7
ID’s The Serial Killer Connection – October 8
Discovery’s Conspiracies & Coverups – October 14
HGTV’s Wild Vacation Rentals – October 25
There Is Plenty to Stream This October
From Ghostface and Pennywise to Mario, Korean romance, prestige drama, and true crime, HBO Max is covering just about every mood this October.
Lanterns Episode Seven | Credit John Johnson l HBO Max
For horror fans, the timing could not be better. For everyone else, the steady stream of new movies, returning series, reality shows, and award-winning favorites should make finding your next watch fairly easy.
HBO Max subscriptions start at ₱149 per month or ₱1,040 for 12 months. Visit www.hbomax.com to subscribe and stream on your preferred device.
Looking for your next Pinoy binge? iWant is giving viewers more reasons to press play with a wide selection of Filipino movies, beloved Kapamilya series, current ABS-CBN programs, and iWant Originals now available to stream for free.
Through its “What U Want, Libre sa iWant” campaign, the streaming platform is opening up more of its entertainment library to viewers in the Philippines. From nostalgic favorites and blockbuster films to fresh originals and daily Kapamilya programs, audiences can enjoy a variety of titles without a subscription.
Even better, viewers can watch across mobile devices, PCs, and smart TVs, making it easier to enjoy Filipino entertainment wherever they are.
Catch Today’s Hit Kapamilya Shows
For viewers who want to keep up with their favorite ABS-CBN programs, iWant continues to offer free live and on-demand streaming of several marquee shows.
Viewers can also access live programming from Kapamilya Channel and DZMM TeleRadyo, bringing entertainment, news, and current affairs together in one place.
Rewatch Filipino Movies Worth Seeing Again
Movie night gets a major upgrade with iWant’s lineup of Filipino films.
Fans of Asian dramas can also watch the Tagalog-dubbed version of “Meteor Garden,” giving viewers another chance to relive one of the most recognizable romance dramas in the region.
For stories inspired by real life, “Maalaala Mo Kaya” remains part of the free streaming lineup, featuring classic episodes as well as its comeback stories from 2025.
These shows add a welcome dose of fun to iWant’s growing free library, perfect for audiences who want something easy, entertaining, and familiar.
iWant Originals Are Part of the Free Lineup
Original stories are also getting the spotlight.
All episodes of “Miss Behave,” headlined by Alexa Ilacad, are now available to stream for free following the series’ conclusion.
Also part of the lineup is “Love at First Spike,” starring Emilio Daez and Reign Parani, as well as “Beach Bros,”featuring Kyle Echarri, Lance Carr, Brent Manalo, Sean Tristan, and Raven Rigor.
With romance, youth stories, comedy, and drama all in the mix, iWant Originals give viewers even more fresh Filipino stories to add to their watchlists.
More Pinoy Entertainment, Without the Paywall
With current Kapamilya programs, nostalgic teleseryes, Filipino movie favorites, and original productions all available in one place, iWant is making it easier for audiences to enjoy homegrown entertainment for free.
Whether you are catching up on a missed episode, revisiting an old favorite, or discovering something new, there is plenty to watch whenever the mood strikes.
Enjoy all the feels you want on iWant, the Home of Filipino Feels.
Download the iWant app through Google Play or the Apple App Store, or visit iwant.ph to start streaming for free.
October is bringing plenty of reasons to stay in and press play. Prime Video’s latest lineup is packed with fantasy adventures, dark comedy, romance, action, thrillers, and Filipino favorites, giving viewers a fresh mix of stories to discover all month long. From highly anticipated returning series to new movies and local productions, there’s something for practically every kind of binge-watcher.
Here’s a look at the movies and series coming to Prime Video this October 2026.
Series
The Seven Knights Of The Marronnier Kingdom October 3, 2026
The Kingdom of Marronnie is surrounded by seven different countries, with General Baribara’s seven sons appointed as knight commanders responsible for foreign diplomacy.
But their mission goes beyond building alliances. As the brothers travel to their assigned countries, they encounter a mysterious young man, experience romance in foreign lands, and gradually uncover secrets surrounding their late father, one of the kingdom’s seven knights.
With an epic fantasy adventure, striking visuals, and distinctive characters, the series promises a sweeping story filled with mystery, romance, and unexpected discoveries.
Carrie October 7, 2026
Copyright: Amazon MGM Studios
Carrie White has spent most of her life hidden away at home under the watchful eye of her fiercely protective mother, Margaret. But after her father’s sudden death forces her into the unfamiliar world of public high school, Carrie finds herself facing a new kind of nightmare.
As a viral bullying scandal spreads through her community, Carrie must deal with the pressures and cruelty of social media while mysterious telekinetic powers begin to emerge alongside her adolescence.
The chaotic I.M.P. crew is back for another wild season.
Set between Hell and the human world, Helluva Boss follows Blitzo and his unconventional assassination business, alongside Moxxie, Millie, and Loona. Season 3 sees the crew take on more dangerous jobs while their complicated personal lives become increasingly difficult to manage.
Blitzo and Stolas continue to navigate their uncertain relationship, Millie and Moxxie prepare for a life-changing surprise, and Loona takes on a bigger role at I.M.P. With old enemies returning and new opportunities emerging, expect more explosive comedy, outrageous situations, and heartfelt character drama.
Doubters to Believers: Liverpool FC: Klopp’s Era October 16, 2026
Jürgen Klopp’s nine-year tenure at Liverpool gets the spotlight in this documentary series.
Following his final season with the club, the series looks back at how Klopp transformed Liverpool and helped lead the team to Premier League and Champions League glory. Featuring exclusive interviews, the documentary explores his coaching evolution, his trust in young talent, and the story behind his emotional farewell.
Love in Disguise October 19, 2026
Copyright: Amazon MGM Studios
Based on the hit web novel Why Don’t You Know It’s a Girl?, this romantic drama follows Kang Jae-hee, a former special forces officer turned police detective.
Assigned to protect and investigate Yoon Yi-jun, the cold and powerful heir to a conglomerate who is also a murder suspect, Jae-hee goes undercover by disguising herself as a man and joining his security team.
But when her true identity is revealed, the two are forced to confront betrayal, vulnerability, and feelings that neither of them expected.
Chris Pratt returns as Navy SEAL Commander James Reece in the second season of The Terminal List.
Based on Jack Carr’s second novel, True Believer, the new season follows Reece as he searches for a new purpose after completing his revenge mission. The story expands into a globe-spanning espionage thriller, taking him across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Indian Ocean.
As Reece uncovers a conspiracy stretching from Moscow to Langley, he also discovers disturbing connections to his own family history.
Final Table October 24, 2026
Copyright: Amazon MGM Studios
Four chefs and a field of culinary competitors go head-to-head in Final Table, where the goal is to crown the best Korean chef alive.
Among them are Kang Han, a world-class talent known as “Chris K.”; Choi Song-yi, who is fighting to save her late father’s restaurant; and Cha Woo-jin, a perfectionist chef who refuses to settle for anything less than the best.
What begins as an intense culinary competition gradually becomes something more personal as the chefs confront their own struggles and form unexpected connections.
LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines Season 2 October 30, 2026
Credit: Prime Video
Get ready for another round of comedy chaos as LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines returns for Season 2.
Ten comedians will battle it out to make each other laugh while doing everything they can to keep a straight face. With wild characters, outrageous antics, and plenty of jokes, the last comedian laughing takes home ONE MILLION PESOS.
Vice Ganda returns as host for the second season.
MOVIES
Drags to Riches October 9, 2026
Andre and Troye hatch an outrageous scheme to secure a promotion by convincing drag queen Jonas to impersonate his long-lost straight twin.
The plan gets even more complicated when they use the deception to fool Jonas’ homophobic father, setting the stage for a comedy filled with unexpected twists and plenty of chaos.
Maya’s life changes after a chance encounter with Charlie sparks a sweeping romance and a future she never expected.
But when that future is suddenly upended, Maya is forced to start over and confront who she is, what she truly wants, and whether she is ready to love again.
In the Grey October 15, 2026
A covert team of elite operatives takes on an impossible mission when a ruthless despot steals a billion-dollar fortune.
Tasked with getting it back, the team soon finds that their seemingly impossible heist has turned into an all-out battle of strategy, deception, and survival.
Written and directed by Guy Ritchie, In the Grey brings together espionage, action, and high-stakes thrills.
Masterplan October 16, 2026
Copyright: Amazon MGM Studios
A legendary thief sets his sights on one of the world’s most famous artworks, the Mona Lisa, and recruits two young strangers to help pull off the ultimate heist.
But there’s a twist. Chiara, an Italian cybercrime expert, and Jay, a French explosives specialist, discover that they are long-lost siblings and that the legendary thief is actually their father.
Now, the unlikely family must learn to work together while trying not to kill each other long enough to execute the heist of the century.
Drive: The Pretenders October 28, 2026
Credit: Prime Video
A young race car mechanic agrees to pretend to be engaged to one of the most scandalous racing stars in the sport.
What begins as a fake relationship is supposed to protect her reputation while giving the mechanic a chance to pursue her own dreams behind the wheel. But as their staged romance becomes something more, the lie threatens to change everything.
Apocalipsis Z: New World October 30, 2026
Credit: Prime Video
The Apocalypse Z saga continues with a new chapter set in a world devastated by the TSJ virus.
The Canary Islands have become Europe’s last refuge, but a special mission to the mainland in search of vital supplies quickly turns into a desperate fight for survival.
Roberto and his companions must navigate hordes of infected and divided loyalties as they face a difficult choice: save themselves or risk everything to protect what remains of humanity.
More Reasons to Press Play This October
From epic fantasy and supernatural drama to high-stakes action, romance, comedy, and survival stories, Prime Video’s October lineup covers plenty of viewing moods. Filipino audiences also have more to look forward to with local titles like Drags to Riches and LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines Season 2 joining the month’s offerings.
Whether you’re looking for something thrilling, funny, romantic, or completely unpredictable, October has plenty of new stories ready for your watchlist.
So, which Prime Video title will be your first binge this October?
Some love stories are defined by happy endings. Others are shaped by timing, missed chances, and the people who remain in our hearts no matter how much life changes.
Directed by Cathy Garcia-Sampana, the film opened in Philippine cinemas on September 30 and is now preparing to bring its story of love, longing, and life-changing choices to audiences around the world.
Apollo and Luna’s Story Goes Global
Following its Philippine theatrical release, “Always Yours, Never Mine” will roll out across several international markets beginning this October.
The film will open in the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Australia, and New Zealand on October 22, followed by the United States, Canada, and Guam on October 23.
Fans in Europe will also get their chance to see the film on the big screen. Screenings begin in the United Kingdom and Austria on October 31, followed by Spain, France, and Italy on November 1.
With its growing international release, the film brings Joshua and Julia’s latest onscreen pairing to Filipino audiences and moviegoers overseas who have been waiting to see them together again.
Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto to Meet Fans in Europe
The international release will also come with special appearances from the film’s lead stars.
Joshua and Julia are set to attend special screenings and meet-and-greet sessions at Genesis Cinema London on October 31, with screenings scheduled at 10 AM and 1 PM.
A day later, the pair will head to Spain for another round of special screenings at Palacio de la Prensa Cinema in Madrid on November 1, with showtimes at 1 PM and 6 PM.
The appearances give fans in Europe a rare chance to experience the film with its stars and hear more about the story behind Apollo and Luna.
A Romance That Unfolds Across Three Decades
At the center of “Always Yours, Never Mine” are Apollo, played by Joshua Garcia, and Luna, portrayed by Julia Barretto.
Their lives repeatedly cross over the course of three decades, but each reunion arrives with a new set of circumstances and a different choice to make.
As the years pass, every decision sends them in a new direction. Some bring them closer, while others pull them apart.
The result is a story that explores not only romance, but also the weight of timing, sacrifice, and the consequences of choosing one path over another.
It asks a painfully familiar question: What happens when love is real, but life refuses to make things simple?
Joshua Garcia Calls the Film a Much-Needed Breather
For Joshua, “Always Yours, Never Mine” offers audiences something warm, relatable, and emotionally refreshing.
Feeling ko kailangan natin ito, yung mga ganitong entertainment. Kailangan nating huminga, I think ito yung hinga natin. I hope maraming maka-relate at makasabay sa characters nina Apollo at Luna (I feel like we need this kind of entertainment. We need to take a breath and enjoy a story like this. I hope many can relate to the characters of Apollo and Luna),” he shared.
The actor expressed his hope that viewers will connect with Apollo and Luna and see something familiar in the choices, emotions, and relationships they encounter throughout the film.
His words also point to one of the movie’s strengths: its ability to turn a deeply personal love story into something audiences can recognize in their own lives.
Julia Barretto on Loving Without Being Loved the Same Way
For Julia, the title itself captures one of the film’s most painful truths.
[It’s about] your willingness to give your heart to somebody else who can’t give theirs back to you,” she said.
That idea sits at the center of Luna and Apollo’s story.
Love, after all, does not always arrive equally. Sometimes one person gives more. Sometimes the timing is wrong. And sometimes, even the strongest feelings are not enough to guarantee the ending we want.
A Story About Love, Timing, and the Choices We Carry
More than a conventional romance, “Always Yours, Never Mine” looks at how relationships change as people grow older, make different choices, and become different versions of themselves.
Apollo and Luna’s journey stretches across years, but the question at the heart of their story remains the same: Can two people who keep finding their way back to each other ever truly belong to one another?
For audiences drawn to stories about second chances, missed opportunities, and complicated love, the film promises an emotional ride built around one of romance’s most enduring ideas: sometimes the person you love most is also the person you cannot completely have.
Where to Watch “Always Yours, Never Mine”
“Always Yours, Never Mine” is now showing in cinemas across the Philippines, with international screenings beginning in October.
Tickets and additional screening information are available through mytfc.com.
Big Bad Wolf Books makes its much-awaited return to Metro Manila, bringing REALLY AWESOME BOOKS. REAL DISCOUNTS. to Park Triangle Mall in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) from November 5 to 15, 2026, marking the book sale’s first-ever event in BGC.
Jacqueline Ng, Founder and Executive Director of Big Bad Wolf Books
This year, Big Bad Wolf Books is bringing an even bigger and more exciting experience for Filipino readers, with a significantly wider selection of fiction, internationally bestselling titles, collectible editions, children’s books, and hard-to-find reads, alongside discounts of up to 95%. From trending authors like Rebecca Yarros, Sarah J. Maas, and Freida McFadden to special editions that are rarely available in the Philippines, there will be more books to discover, more stories to explore, and more reasons to keep hunting through the stacks.
Adding to the excitement is the arrival of Goldsboro Books, giving Filipino readers access to limited first-edition signed copies and serial-numbered books that would traditionally require a trip overseas to find. The sale will also featureJeffrey Archer’s Adam & Eve, launching internationally in October and marking the acclaimed author’s final book—making them particularly meaningful finds for collectors and fans.
The experience is designed for every kind of reader, too. The expanded children’s selection, organized by age group, makes it easier for families to browse, while Unbelievable Titles starting at just ₱60 offer an easy invitation to pick up a book simply because something catches your eye.
TJ Cuenca, Head of Marketing at BGC
TJ Cuenca, Head of Marketing at BGC, welcomed Big Bad Wolf Books to the district and shared its support for bringing the experience into the heart of a city where food, fashion, art, work, entertainment, and culture thrive. Inside Park Triangle, rows upon rows of books will turn browsing into a full-scale treasure hunt.
Jacqueline Ng, Founder and Executive Director of Big Bad Wolf Books, with Big Bad Wolf partners Tim Yap and Charmaine Palermo
The launch was also attended by Big Bad Wolf Books partners, including Tim Yap and Charmaine Palermo, who joined the celebration and shared in the call to make books and learning part of everyday life.
Encouraging everyone to make the most of the upcoming sale, Tim Yap invited guests and readers to “really immerse yourself in books” and give others “the gift of books,” which he described as “the gift of learning.” His message echoed the spirit of the Manila 2026 sale: that discovering a book can be more than a purchase. It can be an opportunity to learn, explore, and share something meaningful with others.
For Big Bad Wolf Books, the experience goes beyond simply finding a book on a reading list. Visitors can come looking for a bestselling author they already love and discover someone completely new, shop for a book for their children and find one for themselves, or stumble upon a rare edition they never expected to see in Manila.
Big Bad Wolf Books Manila 2026 is ultimately about discovery, more of the books people want to read, more books they didn’t know they were looking for, and more opportunities to take home something unexpected. With the sale open daily from 10:00 AM to midnight, readers will have more time to browse, hunt, and discover their next great find.
Hunting Beyond the Stacks: Really Awesome Books, Real Discounts
This year’s theme, “There’s a Book for Every Kind of You,” takes the experience beyond the traditional idea of a reader. Gym-goer? There’s a book for you. Coffee obsessive? There’s a book for you. Gamer, designer, traveler, entrepreneur, home cook, music fan, parent, collector—or someone who hasn’t picked up a book in years? There’s a book for you, too.
Across their real-world interests, including food, fitness, travel, art, music, gaming, parenting, self-development, business, and hobbies, visitors can follow what they already love and see where the hunt takes them. Big Bad Wolf proves a simple truth: people don’t have to love books to find a book they’ll love.
Among the titles visitors can hunt down are:
Fourth Wing (Deluxe and Special Editions) Author: Rebecca Yarros
Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop Author: Hwang Bo-reum
Crime and Punishment Author: Fyodor Dostoyevsky
The Thursday Murder Club Author: Richard Osman
House of Flame and Shadow Author: Sarah J. Maas
The Friend Zone Author: Abby Jimenez
The Thrill of the Hunt in a Digital World
When almost anything can be searched, clicked, and delivered in a few taps, Big Bad Wolf is bringing back something the algorithm cannot quite replicate: the tactile thrill of a book hunt. It’s the spontaneous joy of stumbling across a title you weren’t even looking for, at a bargain price you never expected.
A cover catches your eye. A title makes you stop. You spot an author you’ve been meaning to read, or a book you didn’t know existed. Then you check the price and realize it is coming home with you. That unpredictability has always been part of what makes the Big Bad Wolf experience so special.
Visitors can wander through stacks of unexpected finds, hunt for gifts ahead of the holiday season, discover new interests, and walk away with books they might never have searched for online.
Prowl Ahead: Stay Connected
Event Details
Public Sale Period: November 5 to 15, 2026
Venue: 5th Floor, Park Triangle Mall, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig
Admission: FREE
Operating Hours: Open daily, 10:00 AM–12:00 midnight.
Ready to join the hunt? Keep your eyes peeled and follow Big Bad Wolf Books Philippines’ official Facebook and Instagram pages for sneak peeks, floor guides, and exclusive announcements leading up to opening day on November 5.
For more information on upcoming sales, promos, and updates, visit the Big Bad Wolf Books website or follow the official Big Bad Wolf Books Philippines social media pages:
Unboxing your latest gadgets is always an exhilarating experience, but what if we told you there are even more ways to make it exciting?
Whether you are looking for the next iPhone or Android phone, upgrading your laptop, or searching for other tech accessories and digital gear, always look for the X that marks the spot as The Loop X is now officially open at the 3rd floor of SM North EDSA The Annex.
As the brand’s very first flagship store, The Loop X is a lifestyle playground that redefines modern tech retail. Stepping inside reveals a major transformation from traditional store layouts, featuring a sleek and elevated design that resulted in a bold, modern, and vibrant space where cutting-edge technology, everyday lifestyle, and interactive experiences meet.
At its core, the “X” in The Loop X represents a brand-new way to engage with technology through Xperience, Xplore, and Xcape.
Xperience premium service
Customers can look forward to top-tier and personalized service paired with dedicated interactive experience zones. Visitors can try out new gears in the experiential VR Room, or test high-speed driving setup in the thrilling racing simulator, and even explore thoughtful product pairings through the His and Hers concept displays.
The store also features an immersive audio wall for testing sound gear alongside a dedicated enhancement wall stocked with essential accessories and mobile add-ons to customize every setup.
Xplore the latest finds
At The Loop X, options are virtually endless, bringing together a broad range of tech needs under one roof.
In addition to showcasing the complete Apple lineup, the store also features popular devices and accessories from Samsung, realme, Xiaomi, Tecno, Huawei, Honor, Nubia, Vivo, Oppo, Nintendo, and lifestyle brands like Oura, Plaid, Amazfit, and Rokid, providing options for every upgrade or setup preference.
Xcape the ordinary
Looking for a caffeine and gadget fix? At The Loop X, shoppers can enjoy the best of both worlds: premium drinks paired with top-tier gadgets.
Adding to its unique store layout, The Loop X introduces The Loop Bar, an exclusive in-store matcha bar where customers can sit back and relax with a delightful cup of caffeine while considering their next device upgrade. By combining trendy beverages with modern technology in one place, The Loop X transforms a standard shopping trip into a complete lifestyle experience.
Xperience the coolest way to shop tech. Visit The Loop X on the 3rd floor of SM North EDSA The Annex. Remember: X marks the spot!
Fresh from her Academy Award-winning turn in Anora, Mikey Madison is stepping into a very different kind of spotlight.
In Aaron Sorkin’s The Social Reckoning, the actress portrays Frances Haugen, the former Facebook employee who became one of the most prominent whistleblowers in the tech industry after disclosing internal company documents and speaking publicly about the platform’s impact.
For Madison, the appeal of the role was immediate. More than the headlines surrounding Haugen, it was her willingness to act on her convictions that stood out.
It was Frances’s incredible moral compass that captured me,” Madison says. “It’s not often that someone acts in as selfless a way as she did. And what I loved most is that she is a hero who doesn’t really even know that she is a hero.
All she knows is that there is something inside her that can’t live with keeping this information secret when it is so clearly doing harm.
A Story Built Around “The Facebook Files”
At the center of The Social Reckoning is the investigation that came to be known as The Facebook Files.
The film follows Haugen as she works with The Wall Street Journal reporter Jeff Horwitz, played by Jeremy Allen White, to bring internal information about Facebook into public view.
What begins as a professional exchange gradually becomes something far more personal. With enormous stakes surrounding their work, the two must navigate trust, pressure, and the consequences of going up against one of the world’s biggest technology companies.
Watch the trailer:
Written and directed by Sorkin, who also wrote The Social Network, the film explores not only the mechanics of the investigation, but also the people behind it.
Why Aaron Sorkin Chose Mikey Madison
Sorkin says Madison had the qualities he was looking for long before cameras started rolling.
“I had been knocked out by Mikey’s performance in Anora and also loved her in Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood. I knew that she could do this,” he says.
But for the filmmaker, acting ability was only part of the equation.
I had been knocked out by Mikey’s performance in Anora and also loved her in Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood. I knew that she could do this,” Sorkin says. “In addition to being a great actor, Mikey has qualities an actor can’t fake. An actor can’t pretend to be smart. And an actor can’t pretend to be funny. You need to already be those things to make them authentic, and Mikey is.
It is that combination of intelligence, wit, and restraint that helped shape Madison’s interpretation of Haugen.
Learning the Mindset of a Tech Insider
Preparing for the role meant entering a world far removed from Madison’s own.
The actress spent time learning the language and culture of the tech industry, while also looking into the experiences of women working in a field known for its highly analytical and often demanding environment.
Frances is wickedly intelligent but in a very specific way,” Madison notes. “I had to learn to wrap my head around someone who is always thinking analytically.
Rather than simply copying Haugen’s mannerisms, Madison focused on understanding how the character processes information, responds to pressure, and makes decisions when the stakes keep rising.
That approach aligned with Sorkin’s direction.
Instead of asking his cast to recreate the real people exactly, he encouraged them to work from the characters as written on the page.
For Madison, that opened the door to building her own version of Frances while staying grounded in the larger truth of the story.
The Relationship at the Heart of the Film
One of the most compelling parts of The Social Reckoning for Madison was the evolving relationship between Frances and Jeff.
At first, the two are connected by a shared goal. Over time, however, that dynamic deepens into trust and friendship.
There’s a certain point in the story where Frances and Jeff turn from using each other as a means to an end to becoming true allies and friends who appreciate each other for who they truly are, Madison says.
For Frances, that growing trust leads to a major turning point.
That’s when Frances realizes she can’t be anonymous anymore, much as she wants to be, because Jeff’s story will only have a major impact if her face is attached to it.
It is a decision that pushes the story beyond corporate intrigue and into something much more intimate.
The choice to step forward publicly changes everything.
Taking on Sorkin’s Signature Dialogue
Madison also found herself tackling one of the most recognizable elements of any Aaron Sorkin project: fast, carefully constructed dialogue.
For the actress, the precision of the writing became one of the most rewarding parts of the experience.
“Every word is so specifically chosen,” she says.
At the same time, Madison says Sorkin gave the cast plenty of room to make those words their own.
I found Aaron remarkably trusting as a director. He chooses his actors carefully, then lets them do what they do best. He definitely doesn’t micromanage, which is wonderful. And he has an incredible sense of humor that is really fun.
That balance between tightly written material and creative freedom allowed Madison to shape a performance that feels less like an imitation and more like a character study.
A Role Rooted in Courage
Although Madison has yet to meet Haugen in person, portraying her has clearly left an impression.
I do very much hope one day in the future to meet this incredible woman, she says.
With The Social Reckoning, Madison moves from the chaotic energy of Anora to a quieter but equally demanding role, playing a woman whose strength comes from choosing to speak when remaining silent would have been easier.
Alongside Jeremy Allen White and under Sorkin’s direction, Madison brings one of the tech world’s most closely watched whistleblower stories to the big screen.
Ryu and Ken have spent decades defining Street Fighter, whether trading Hadokens in arcades, facing off across console generations, or standing as two of the franchise’s most recognizable fighters.
Now, their complicated history is getting a more personal spotlight on the big screen.
A newly released featurette for Street Fighter, titled “Ken vs Ryu,” offers a closer look at the bond between the two fighters, played by Andrew Koji and Noah Centineo. More than a simple rivalry, the film appears ready to explore what happens when friendship, brotherhood, and old wounds collide.
More Than Just Rivals
Ken and Ryu go way, way back,” says Centineo, who plays Ken Masters. “They were training partners and friends for a very long time.
For Koji, who takes on the role of Ryu, their connection runs even deeper.
They were brothers – no, actually, blood brothers – that in this story have not spoken because there was an event that caused them to go very separate paths, he says.
That fractured relationship looks set to become one of the film’s central emotional threads.
After years apart, Ryu and Ken are forced back into each other’s orbit, and judging by the featurette, their reunion will involve much more than friendly sparring.
The World Warrior Tournament Returns
Set in 1993, Street Fighter follows estranged fighters Ryu and Ken as they are pulled back into combat by Chun-Li, played by Callina Liang.
Her mission leads them to the next World Warrior Tournament, where fighters from across the globe come together for a brutal clash of strength, skill, and survival.
Of course, this being Street Fighter, there is more happening beneath the surface.
A deadly conspiracy lurks behind the tournament, forcing Ryu and Ken to confront not only a dangerous new threat, but also the unresolved history that drove them apart.
For longtime fans, that setup gives the film plenty of room to deliver the spectacle the franchise is known for while adding more weight to one of gaming’s most enduring rivalries.
Watch the “Ken vs Ryu” featurette here:
A Roster Built for Fans
Director Kitao Sakurai brings the arcade classic to cinemas with a lineup packed with familiar names.
Noah Centineo stars as Ken, with Andrew Koji as Ryu and Callina Liang as Chun-Li.
It is a wildly varied ensemble, fitting for a franchise known for bringing together fighters with completely different styles, personalities, and backgrounds.
From Arcade Rivalry to Big-Screen Drama
Ryu and Ken have always been inseparable from the identity of Street Fighter.
They may fight differently, walk different paths, and constantly test each other, but their rivalry has always been rooted in respect. The upcoming film appears ready to push that dynamic further by giving their separation real consequences.
That makes “Ken vs Ryu” more than a showcase for punches and special moves. It sets up a story about two fighters forced to face what happened between them before they can move forward.
The one-night-only engagement will feature long sets of new releases and classic hits that have defined Pinoy pop culture for decades, letting the audience experience the music in an intimate, live setting.
Almalbis and Nadal have previously shared the stage through the first two editions of Secrets at the Music Museum. They later reunited for the two-part Tanaw series, which featured contemporaries from the Philippine rock and alternative-pop scene.
CROSSFADE promises a night of live music that connects eras, influences, and personal histories. It also aims to champion both the songs audiences have grown up with and the new material that accompanies their respective artistic pathways.
Tickets are available for PHP 1,600 via bit.ly/barbiekitchiecrossfade. The event is standing-room only, with a limited number of seats available on a first-come, first-served basis.
