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  • Diamond Hotel Philippines Turns up the Fun with K-Pop All Stars Halloween Event

    Diamond Hotel Philippines Turns up the Fun with K-Pop All Stars Halloween Event

    This Halloween, Diamond Hotel Philippines invites families and young K-pop fans to join a world of music, games, and festive thrills at K-pop All Stars, an event happening on October 25, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Diamond Ballroom.

    Kpop All Star Event e flyer

    Combining the excitement of K-pop with the playful spirit of Halloween, K-pop All Stars promises a lively celebration filled with games, prizes, live performances, food, and other surprises for guests of all ages.

    Adding to the excitement, the Grand Raffle gives one lucky guest the chance to win a Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ 5G!

    Tickets are priced atPhp 2,800 net per person, inclusive of the buffet lunch, loot bag, access to games and activities, and live entertainment. Tickets may be purchased at the Diamond Hotel Philippines outlets onsite or through onlineshopping.diamondhotel.com.

    Diamond Hotel Ph Deluxe Regency Room

    Families looking to extend the festivities can opt for the hotel’s Super Sleepover Halloween Package, which combines an overnight stay with tickets to K-pop All Stars. Starting at Php 9,800 net per night in a Deluxe Room, the package includes two tickets to the event, buffet breakfast for two persons, and 15% off additional Halloween event tickets. The package is available for stays until October 31, 2026, with bookings accepted until October 24, 2026.

    Witchs Gaze Cake by Diamond Hotel Philippines edit
    Crimson Eye Mousse by by Diamond Hotel Philippines edit
    Creepy Eclairs by Diamond Hotel Philippines edit

    Bringing a touch of Halloween magic to the occasion, the hotel presents its Halloween Sweets, showcasing spooktacular designs and delightfully wicked flavors. Available for online orders or purchase at the Lobby Lounge until October 31, 2026, the selection features sweet creations such as Creepy Eclairs, Crimson Eye Mousse, and the Witch’s Gaze Cake. For a charmingly spooky gathering, guests can also enjoy a Halloween Afternoon Teaat the Lobby Lounge.

    For ticket purchase, visit onlineshopping.diamondhotel.com or contact the Events Office at (63 2) 8528-3000. For room reservations book via diamondhotel.com or call (63 2) 8528-3000 and email reservations@diamondhotel.com. All promotions are not valid in conjunction with other promotional offers. Prior reservations are encouraged.

  • Nobu Manila at City of Dreams sets the scene with influencer-host Tommy Tiangco for “Unattached & Unbothered” Halloween party

    Nobu Manila at City of Dreams sets the scene with influencer-host Tommy Tiangco for “Unattached & Unbothered” Halloween party

    Nobu Manila at City of Dreams Manila brings a  distinctive hip vibe in a Halloween party entitled “Unattached & Unbothered” with influencer and entrepreneur Tommy Tiangco hosting the chic venue’s month-ender socials on Friday, October 30, 2026, as doors open at 6:30 pm. 

    Meet the host

    5. Trick or Drink Shots with Tommy at Nobu Manila

    Nobu signatures and handcrafted cocktails set the mood with Tiangco, who has built a following through lighthearted viral videos and fun-loving humor across social media platforms.  He carries his signature playful online presence into the chic ambience of Nobu Manila as he enlivens  the Halloween socials that bring to life scenes from popular rom-coms as party goers steal the scene in fun, edgy outfits evoking memorable flicks and series like “Crazy Rich Asian”, “Princess Diaries”,  “13 Going on 30”, “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days”,  “The Notebook”, “Friends”, “Emily in Paris”, and “Bridgerton”, to name a few. Adding excitement is an award for The Best Dressed of the Night,  and the possibility of revelers’ meeting new friends and acquaintances through the night via speed dating among single or simply “in it for the plot” after-dark crew. .

    A Halloween social with a Nobu twist

    6. Neighbor Jam Collective DJs at Nobu Manila

    Live DJ sets of the Neighbor Jams Collective provide the evening’s soundtrack, beginning with DJ Ais Nicaution from 7 to 9 p.m., followed by Arwin Sandico at 9 p.m. and Duaneinsane at 11 p.m. Fatroach takes over at midnight, keeping the music going until late. “Trick or Drink” complimentary cocktail shots from 7 to 9 pm, Tarot reading until 10 pm, and unlimited photobooth access kick up the party mood.

    Nobu signatures and a spirited revelry

    2. NOBU signature canapes X Unattached and Unbothered with Tommy Tiangco

    At ₱3,750 net per person, the “Unattached & Unbothered” package comes with  a curated tray of  Nobu signature dishes comprised of:  Black Cod Butter Lettuce, Salmon Karashi Su Miso White Fish Nigiri Matsuhisa and Tuna Nigiri Wasabi Salsa Umami Chicken Wings  and Shrimp Tempura;  with a glass each of Nobu White Sangria and Nobu Lychee Martini. 

    The Tommy Edit

    Offered only for that evening, and beyond the fixed tray of dishes, The Tommy Edit à la carte menu  will be available to order throughout the night for guests who wish to explore more Nobu selections, at an additional cost. Nobu hot and cold dishes, sushi and sashimi are complemented by handcrafted cocktails, premium sake and wine.

    The exclusive menu consists of: Sakizuke: Edamame with spicy garlic sauce and Maldon salt (₱350), Sesame Mixed Nuts with soya salt (₱400), and Crispy Nori Chips with shichimi (₱350). From the sushi bar are Salmon Tataki Karashi Su Miso (₱1,050); the Chef’s Nigiri Selection of Hamachi Jalapeño, Tako Wasabi Salsa and Ebi Nobu Salsa; Sashimi Salad with Matsuhisa dressing (₱950); and House Special Cut Roll with wasabi, pickled ginger and soya sauce (₱1,000).

    Hot bites are composed of Umami Chicken Wings with dry miso (₱600 for six pieces), Takumi Wagyu Beef Slider with Nobu slider sauce (₱700 per piece), Black Cod Butter Lettuce with yuzu miso (₱400 per piece), and Prawn Tempura (₱650 for four pieces).

    Nobu Mochi, in mango, green tea or vanilla flavors, offers a sweet finish at ₱180 per piece.

    Reserve a spot for the Nobu Halloween party

    1. NOBU MANILA X Tommy Tiangco Unattached and Unbothered

    To reserve “Unattached & Unbothered”  limited slots,  guests can call (63 2) 8800-8080,  message Nobu Manila at mobile number (63 917) 5139862 on Wednesday to Sunday or e-mail noburestaurant@cod-manila.com  or guestservices@cod-manila.com.

    For more information, visit: https://www.cityofdreamsmanila.com/en/blog/unattached-and-unbothered-halloween-socials. Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free  download on iOS and Android.

  • Ayala Malls Cinemas and British Embassy Mark 80 Years of UK-PH Friendship with ‘Sense and Sensibility’

    Ayala Malls Cinemas and British Embassy Mark 80 Years of UK-PH Friendship with ‘Sense and Sensibility’

    In celebration of UK-Philippines Friendship Day and 80 years of diplomatic relations between the United Kingdom and the Philippines, Ayala Malls Cinemas and the British Embassy in Manila hosted a special screening of the Jane Austen classic Sense and Sensibility at Greenbelt on October 20, bringing together members of the media, guests, and film enthusiasts for an afternoon honoring British culture, storytelling, and friendship.

    PaulBirkett SandS
    “A friendship that has lasted 80 years is not only something to celebrate, but something to build upon.”  Paul Birkett, Ayala Malls Chief Operating Officer

    Guests were welcomed with afternoon tea catered by Lusso ahead of the screening, creating an occasion that celebrated the richness of British literary heritage and the enduring connections forged through culture and the arts.

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    British Embassy Manila Chargé d’Affaires Mike Welch highlighted the power of literature and cinema to bring people together across cultures and generations. His remarks underscored the role of cultural exchange in strengthening ties between the United Kingdom and the Philippines.

    Ayala Malls Chief Operating Officer Paul Birkett highlighted the enduring relationship between the United Kingdom and the Philippines, emphasizing the role of openness, mutual respect, and shared ambition in strengthening ties between the two nations.

    WLF01677
    Guests enjoying afternoon tea  at the special screening of “Sense and Sensibility”

    Based on Jane Austen’s celebrated novel, the film adaptation of Sense and Sensibility brings to life the story of sisters Elinor and Marianne Dashwood as they navigate love, loss, and social expectations.

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    Guests at the special screening of Sense and Sensibility

    The exclusive theatrical run of Sense and Sensibility at Ayala Malls Cinemas invites both longtime admirers and new audiences to experience the classic story on the big screen. The screening reflects Ayala Malls Cinemas’ commitment to curating distinctive film experiences that celebrate culture, storytelling, and the shared experiences that bring communities together. It also aligns with Ayala Land’s commitment to creating opportunities for meaningful cultural engagement and connection.

    Sense and Sensibility screens exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas beginning October 28.

  • Big Bad Wolf Books Brings Rare Goldsboro Books Editions to the Philippines for the First Time

    Big Bad Wolf Books Brings Rare Goldsboro Books Editions to the Philippines for the First Time

    Signed limited editions from London’s renowned Goldsboro Books are coming to Big Bad Wolf Books Manila, giving Filipino readers and collectors the opportunity to discover these collectible releases locally. The sale runs from November 5–18, 2026, on the fifth floor of Park Triangle Mall in Bonifacio Global City (BGC).

    Honey in the Wound Jiyoung Han

    Goldsboro Books is an independent bookseller known for its signed first editions, exclusive releases, and collectible books sought after by readers and collectors worldwide.

    The Goldsboro Books selection brings together signed first editions and special releases, with selected editions featuring distinctive details such as sprayed edges and individually numbered copies. For readers discovering collectible books for the first time and enthusiasts adding to their collections, the selection offers books to enjoy and treasure.

    Among the highlights to keep an eye out for during the sale are:

    Jeffrey Archer Adam and Eve
    • Adam & Eve, the late Jeffrey Archer’s final novel. It’s a Sunday Times Bestseller that reached number one on release day across major UK and international charts. The featured signed edition is part of a limited run of just 2,500 copies produced worldwide.
    • Lost Lambs by Madeline Cash, a Sunday Times Bestseller and a finalist for the 2026 Barnes & Noble Discover Prize. Cash’s dark and humorous debut novel was also a New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice and was shortlisted for the 2026 Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize.
    • Honey in the Wound by Jiyoung Han, an international bestseller that was shortlisted for the 2026 Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize and has earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly. The featured signed edition is part of a limited run of just 500 copies produced worldwide.

    From Kuala Lumpur to Manila

    The collaboration builds on a recent milestone for Goldsboro Books in Asia. Just this August 27, 2026, the bookseller opened The Goldsboro Room, its first permanent home outside the United Kingdom. Located at The Library by BookXcess in Sunway Square Mall, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the dedicated space brings Goldsboro’s signature selection closer to Asian readers. Big Bad Wolf Books co-founders Jacqueline Ng and Andrew Yap helped make all this possible and are now extending the excitement to Manila, giving Filipino readers a chance to discover these books locally.

    Goldsboro Books Signed Numbered

    For Jacqueline and Andrew, the collaboration reflects their commitment to making a wider variety of books accessible to more readers, from everyday reads to rare editions worth keeping for years.

    “Part of the joy of a book sale is discovering something you didn’t expect to find, whether it’s a title you’ll want to keep for years to come or a special edition that would make a meaningful gift for someone else. Through our collaboration with Goldsboro Books, we are able to bring these special editions to Manila. We hope Filipino readers and collectors will enjoy discovering these titles and find something they’ll want to keep for years to come,” said Jacqueline Ng, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Big Bad Wolf Books. “Looking ahead, we also hope to bring The Goldsboro Room concept, which was introduced in Kuala Lumpur, to the Philippines.”

    Big Reads Big Finds Big Rewards

    Really Awesome Books. Real Discounts.
    Beyond the collectible editions, shoppers can browse a wide selection of books at discounts of up to 95%. The Unbelievable Titles selection will feature books starting at just PHP60, giving readers more options for discovering new authors, exploring different genres, and adding to their home libraries without spending too much.

    The sale will also feature a Spend More, Save More promotion, offering instant rebates on eligible purchases made in a single receipt:

    • PHP150 off when you spend PHP2,800
    • PHP300 off when you spend PHP3,500
    • PHP500 off when you spend PHP5,000

    Shoppers Can Win Up to PHP500,000 Worth of Prizes

    Visitors will also have the chance to win prizes from a total prize pool worth up to PHP500,000, including a MacBook Neo 13-inch, three gold bars, vouchers, and other prizes.

    With the Goldsboro Books collection joining its wider selection of discounted titles, Big Bad Wolf Books Manila 2026 offers book lovers another opportunity to discover books they might not usually come across while enjoying deals throughout the sale.

    Big Bad Wolf Books Manila 2026 runs from November 5 to 18, 2026, from 10 AM to 12 midnight, at the 5th floor of Park Triangle Mall, BGC.

    For updates on featured titles, promotions, and other announcements, follow Big Bad Wolf Books’ official social media channels.

  • SM Megamall Kicks Off Mega Holidays 2026 with A Royal Christmas Musical and Festive Treats

    SM Megamall Kicks Off Mega Holidays 2026 with A Royal Christmas Musical and Festive Treats

    Christmas is getting a royal makeover at SM Megamall! This year, the mall is welcoming the holiday season with Mega Holidays 2026: The Royal Court of Christmas, a regal holiday experience inspired by the timeless elegance of chess. The launch is headlined by its original musical, staged by the Repertory Philippines and, for the first time, brought to life with a live orchestral score by the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra.

    Launched on October 16, the festive spectacle transforms the Mega Fashion Hall into a grand royal court fit for the season, complete with its red-and-white checkered floor stretching beneath towering, oversized chess pieces cast in ruby red, champagne gold, and pearl white, and a towering 45-foot Christmas tree. It’s a magical setting for families, friends, and holiday-loving mallgoers looking to get into the Christmas spirit.

    SM Mega Holidays 2026

    Step Into The Royal Court of Christmas

    The centerpiece of SM Megamall’s holiday celebration is The Royal Court of Christmas, an original musical that brings a chess-inspired kingdom to life.

    The story follows a young girl who discovers a gift beneath the Christmas tree and finds herself transported to a magical kingdom. With help from colorful characters, including the Jester, the Royal Bard, and the Kingsguard, she joins the Queen and King in lighting the kingdom’s grand Christmas tree before returning home to a warm welcome from Santa Claus.

    The production features theater actors Kayla Rivera, Markki Stroem, and Emilia Fuglister, with performances by Repertory Philippines. The production marks the first time an SM Megamall Christmas musical is accompanied by a live score from the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, showcasing SM Megamall’s continued push to give guests a maxed out holiday experience.

    Megamall

    The Royal Court of Christmas is part of a season-long celebration. This year, SM Supermalls will run a series of festive launches and family activities across its mall network, reaffirming its position as one of the most loved places to visit during the holidays.

    More Ways to Celebrate Christmas at SM Megamall

    The royal festivities are only the beginning. SM Megamall is also bringing back holiday traditions and adding more activities to keep the Christmas cheer going throughout the season. Beyond the musical spectacle, SM Megamall is rolling out even more reasons to visit this season:

    • Santa Meet & Greet — Every Sunday, from November 22 to December 25, Santa Claus will happily meet guests and hear out their Christmas wishes! You can visit Santa at three timeslots during the Meet & Greet dates: 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm. 
    • Christmas Chorale — If you love listening to holiday songs, SM Megamall will raise the Christmas cheer with live performances from RTU Himig Rizalia, Chorus Vocales Philippines, Emilio Aguinaldo Chorale, and Camerata Philippines Chorale. Catch these groups every Saturday from November 28 to December 19, at 2pm and 5pm! 
    • Mega 12 Gifts of Christmas — Doing some Christmas shopping at SM Megamall? Great news: you might just be one of the lucky winners of a MINI Aceman SE car, DJI Pocket 4 OSMO Action Camera, Sony 1000x Headphones, Dyson Airwrap, and more! Customers can enter with a minimum single-receipt purchase of PHP 3,000.00 at any SM Megamall store or restaurant (except SM Supermarket). Now on its third year, the annual raffle will run from October 10, 2026 to January 10, 2027! Full mechanics can be found on SM Megamall’s Facebook page.
    Mega 12 Gifts of Christmas

    Make SM Megamall Part of Your Christmas Plans

    Whether it’s catching the Royal Court in session, hunting for gifts, or simply spending time with loved ones, SM Megamall invites everyone to make this year’s holidays truly their own. But the celebration doesn’t end there, as your most loved SM Supermalls nationwide are unwrapping their own signature Christmas experiences throughout the season, each one ready to welcome families and friends who are in search of holiday magic close to home.

    This Christmas, make every mall visit, every gift, and every memory truly #MySM. Follow @smsupermalls on social media for the latest scoop on holiday celebrations happening across the country. After all, Christmas is best enjoyed when there’s a little wonder waiting around every corner.

  • Malupiton Takes on His First Leading-Man Role in ‘He’s Dating a Boldstar,’ Opening October 28

    Malupiton Takes on His First Leading-Man Role in ‘He’s Dating a Boldstar,’ Opening October 28

    Malupiton is trading viral videos for the big screen.

    Joel Ravanera, better known to millions online as Malupiton, steps into a new chapter of his career with He’s Dating a Boldstar, his first feature film as a leading man. The romantic comedy opens in cinemas nationwide on October 28.

    Known for turning everyday situations into wildly relatable comedy, Malupiton now brings his familiar humor and easygoing charm to a love story that places an ordinary man in a very unexpected situation.

    This time, the laughs come with romance, awkward discoveries, and a relationship that forces his character to look beyond first impressions.

    Watch the official trailer here.

    An Ordinary Guy Meets Someone Completely Unexpected

    In He’s Dating a Boldstar, Malupiton plays Jeboy, a cheerful and uncomplicated man who is perfectly comfortable with his ordinary routine.

    Then Kit enters his life.

    Played by Analyn Barro, Kit is warm, beautiful, and easy to be around. Her arrival adds excitement to Jeboy’s predictable days, and what begins as a casual friendship soon develops into a connection he cannot ignore.

    HDAB Still 2

    For Jeboy, Kit seems to bring everything his life has been missing. She makes things brighter, more exciting, and perhaps even more meaningful.

    There is just one part of her life he does not fully understand yet.

    Love Gets Complicated

    Kit works as a performer in adult-content films, something Jeboy initially knows very little about.

    As he gets closer to her, Jeboy begins to see that their growing relationship comes with questions he never expected to face. Suddenly, he must deal with other people’s assumptions, his own insecurities, and the challenges of falling for someone whose work attracts attention and judgment.

    It is a situation far removed from the simple world he knows.

    HDAB Still 4

    Still, beneath the comedy and uncomfortable moments is a familiar question: how much should someone’s past, profession, or public image matter when genuine feelings are involved?

    That question gives He’s Dating a Boldstar more to work with than a typical opposites-attract romance.

    Malupiton Brings His Everyman Charm to the Movies

    Malupiton’s casting as Jeboy feels closely connected to the personality that made him popular online.

    His comedy has long been built around characters and situations that feel familiar to Filipino audiences. Whether he is playing someone confused, frustrated, confident, or completely caught off guard, much of his appeal comes from making ordinary experiences funny.

    Jeboy gives him a chance to bring that same energy to a full-length film.

    HDAB Still 1

    Instead of transforming him into an overly polished romantic lead, He’s Dating a Boldstar leans into the qualities audiences already recognize. Jeboy is awkward, sincere, humorous, and unmistakably human.

    That familiarity could be one of the film’s biggest strengths.

    For longtime followers, seeing Malupiton move from short-form comedy to a major movie role also makes the project a notable milestone. It is a significant jump for the content creator, placing him in a different kind of spotlight while allowing him to stay close to the comedic style that built his audience.

    Analyn Barro Plays the Woman Who Changes Jeboy’s World

    Opposite Malupiton is Analyn Barro as Kit, the woman at the center of Jeboy’s unexpected romance.

    Rather than simply serving as the mysterious woman who disrupts his routine, Kit brings her own complications to the story. Her profession, public image, and personal life create challenges that test whether Jeboy can accept her beyond what other people see.

    HDAB Still 6

    Their unlikely pairing sets up the film’s central tension.

    Can two people from completely different worlds build something real when outside opinions, assumptions, and personal doubts begin getting in the way?

    The answer, of course, is where much of the comedy and romance comes in.

    A New Milestone for Malupiton

    He’s Dating a Boldstar is produced by NKO Films and directed by Niokz Arcega, known for his distinct approach to twisted comedy.

    The project also brings Malupiton together with friends and longtime collaborators who have been part of his journey as an online entertainer.

    HDAB Still 3

    Moving from digital sketches to a feature-length movie is no small transition, but the film appears to embrace rather than abandon the qualities that made Malupiton a viral favorite.

    His humor remains front and center. The difference is that Jeboy now has more room to grow, fall in love, make mistakes, and discover just how complicated relationships can become.

    A Rom-Com With an Unconventional Setup

    At its heart, He’s Dating a Bold Star is about two people whose lives should not necessarily fit together, yet somehow do.

    Jeboy is content with simplicity. Kit lives a life that comes with public attention and complicated perceptions.

    Put them together, and things are bound to get messy.

    With romance, friendship, humor, and plenty of uncomfortable surprises, the film asks whether an ordinary man is ready to accept a love story that is anything but ordinary.

    Hes Dating a Boldstar poster

    For fans who have watched Malupiton turn everyday comedy into viral entertainment, He’s Dating a Boldstar offers a chance to see him take that relatable persona somewhere new.

    This time, he is not just chasing laughs.

    He is falling in love.

    Distributed by Go Asia Entertainment, He’s Dating a Boldstar opens in cinemas nationwide on October 28.

    Follow Go Asia Entertainment for updates on the film and its latest releases.

  • Movie Review: While Gruesome and Gory, ‘Clayface’ Runs Less Like a Horror Film Than a Bloody Supervillain Origin Story

    Movie Review: While Gruesome and Gory, ‘Clayface’ Runs Less Like a Horror Film Than a Bloody Supervillain Origin Story

    A recent wave of mainstream and indie hits like The Substance and Together has brought body horror into the cinematic mainstream. In an era where violence has become a regular part of the daily news cycle, audiences have somehow developed an appetite for visceral gore. In all of its marketing, Clayface promises to deliver just that brand of terror. Based on the iconic DC Comics and a regular opponent of Batman, the film is directed by James Watkins from a screenplay by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini. Yet despite Flanagan and Amini’s are major draws, the film never fully realises its terrifying potential for horror. Instead, it leans into a fast-paced, comic-book approach to its storytelling, ultimately foregoing the genuine horror for action.

    Clayface follows Matt Hagen (Tom Rhys Harries), an actor reaching the pinnacle of his career with an Academy Award nomination. Framed as a rags to riches underdog who beat the odds, Hagen loses everything after a chance encounter in a nightclub with Theresa (Ruby Sear), the girlfriend of mob boss Markos Szabo (David Dencik). Szabo brutally mutilated Hagen, leaving him disfigured without a face and his reputation destroyed. Desperate, Hagen turns to Dr. Caitlyn Corr (Naomi Ackie), a scientist who has been betrayed by her partners and runs a rogue lab that is working on broken tissue-repair nanotechnology. Hagen insists to be her human test subject, and while the experimental procedure restores his face, the side effects drive him to take more than Caitlyn prescribes, and he discovers his body has mutated and he can now change his shape at will. 

    Clayface
    Clayface | Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

    There are so many interesting avenues the film could choose to take with this premise. As an actor, it would be interesting to see Hagen use his skills to learn how to properly mimic his targets whose shapes he copies and the slow descent of his mind as the potential to be anyone could fracture his own sanity. In the film, Hagen develops a growing attachment to Caitlyn, the story naturally teeters on The Invisible Man territory, with her only good cop in Gotham boyfriend, John (Max Minghella) as the man in the way. 

    Clayface
    Clayface | Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

    The film could have also pushed Hagen to extreme lengths to revive his acting career, and the twists and turns it could take for him to secure that would lead him to frightening games of manipulation that would eventually lead to murder when the stakes get sky-high.

    Clayface
    Clayface | Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

    Instead, the film takes a straightforward revenge route. Hagen gets a hero’s underdog story, only to discover he has been lied to and betrayed by everyone around him. As he demands accountability, he loses control, triggering an accidental murderous streak that paints a target on both his back and Caitlyn’s. It is this chain of events that his descent into villainy is predicated.

    Clayface
    Clayface | Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

    Depicting Hagen as a victim turned perpetrator undercuts the core horror of his transformation. The film makes you want to root for him until the final act of the film, diluting the darkness and sense of danger necessary for film’s genre to fully take hold. It does not help that the dialogue is painfully weak, with characters constantly over-explaining every thought and emotion. There is zero subtlety here. It’s unabashedly watered-down mainstream storytelling.

    Clayface
    Clayface | Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

    Despite the flawed script, the film is still entertaining to watch with its clean and seamless visual effects. These are some of the cleanest special effects I’ve seen and they are quite enjoyable to watch. The moment I dropped my genre expectations and accepted the movie for what it is, a popcorn supervillain origin story, there are some fun to be had. I particularly enjoyed a whimsical, out-of-the-box moment in a dance floor that came out of nowhere, proving it could have a bit of fun.

    There’s a huge expectation that has been placed on this film by its marketing, trailers, and the high-profile screenwriters involved. But once you let go of that hype, however, there is fun to be had – especially if you like gruesome, bloody body horror. On that front, it has that in droves at the beginning.

    My Rating: 2.5 Stars

    stars 2 5

    High-stakes body horror meets classic popcorn cinema. Experience the shape-shifting spectacle of Clayface on the big screen, click here for showtimes and theater listings!

  • Theater Review: A Night of Acrobatic Wonder and Magic, ‘Cirque Alice’ Is Fit for the Whole Family

    Theater Review: A Night of Acrobatic Wonder and Magic, ‘Cirque Alice’ Is Fit for the Whole Family

    It is a night at the circus at the Theater at Solaire as Tim Lawson & Sam Painter, in partnership with GMG Productions, present Cirque Alice, a circus adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”. The delightful two-hour show blends music, dance, acrobatics, and magic to showcases the human body pushed to its physical limit. It is both awe-inspiring and heart pumping, leaving the kids in the audience and myself thoroughly impressed by the show.

    Cirque Alice
    Cirque Alice | Photo courtesy of GMG Productions

    The show loosely follows Carroll’s classic tale: Alice (Layla Schillert) pursues the White Rabbit (Raphael Papo) down the rabbit hole and into Wonderland. There, she encounters many eccentric characters based on the novel, each bringing a distinct act to the stage.

    Cirque Alice
    Cirque Alice | Photo courtesy of GMG Productions

    Most of them are acrobats and gymnasts, such as The Tweedles (Temesgen Adole Zada and Leul Derreje Ashebir), who balance atop one another and while one is balancing on the other’s legs, the lower performer juggling his partner at a frightening speed! Another standout is example is Vladyslav Tsarov as the Snap-Dragon, an aerialist who does beautiful poses in the air while suspended from a single pole.

    Cirque Alice
    Cirque Alice | Photo courtesy of GMG Productions

    The show is packed with these death-defying stunts that push the limits of the human body and mind. I’ve never seen a circus show live before and it’s really quite an experience. The Doormouse (Daniel Onofre) performs a balancing act that grows increasingly precarious with every level. When you see it in front of you, how high Onofre gets, and how unstable his platform is, you can’t help but get stressed out but are also amazed by the skill that it takes to perform this stunt.

    Cirque Alice
    Cirque Alice | Photo courtesy of GMG Productions

    Creative Directors Kirsty White and Ash Jacks McCready do a splendid job creating the flow of the performances. Schillert delivers a strong vocal performance as Alice, she gets to sing operatic songs like “The Flower Duet” from Lakme and “Ave Maria” in-between some performances, while the Mad Hatter (Darren “Dizzy” Partridge) does a comedy act with magic that includes audience participation.

    Cirque Alice
    Cirque Alice | Photo courtesy of GMG Productions

    To transition between major acts, dancers dressed in lavish costumes perform with great choreography by Dane Bates, keeping the show’s energy fluid. The White Rabbit doubles as a violinist who also takes the spotlight at times to help keep things moving along.

    Cirque Alice
    Cirque Alice | Photo courtesy of GMG Productions

    The pace is fast, and while the acts are shorter than they seem – feeling extended only because they can be intensely stressful (if it involves high-altitude balance acts) or beautiful (like many of the aerial stunts) – they help create such an experience that you feel constantly engaged. No single one performance is better than the other; rather, each showcases its own distinct artistry and unique skill set.

    Cirque Alice
    Cirque Alice | Photo courtesy of GMG Productions

    The Caterpillar is brought to life by Munkhjin Tuvd, Bayarmaa Ganbat, Shinechimeg Otgonbayar, and Dolgorsuren Ganbold, a quartet of skilled contortionists and acrobats. Their choreography cleverly mimics the shifting movement of a caterpillar’s legs as they climb atop one another to form incredible physical tableaus.

    Cirque Alice
    Cirque Alice | Photo courtesy of GMG Productions

    The March Hare (Viktor Hladchenko) is a hoop acrobat who performs amazing thing with a Cyr wheel, while the Queen of Hearts (Vladyslav Tsarov) is a solo contortionist and gymnast who strikes seemingly unimaginable poses atop an elevated crescent hook. 

    Cirque Alice
    Cirque Alice | Photo courtesy of GMG Productions

    My personal favourite? The Flamingos (Duo Daylight: Anna Stelmakh and Evgenii Slepukhin), rope aerialists who essentially perform ballet in the sky. Their routine is graceful and romantic, and the stunts that they do tells its own story.

    Cirque Alice
    Cirque Alice | Photo courtesy of GMG Productions

    It is an incredible production: simple in concept, yet executed wonderfully. I never thought I’d go and enjoy a live circus show so thoroughly, but the sheer wonder of the performance took me by surprise at how it made me feel. Judging from the audience’s reactions around me – especially the kids – I wouldn’t be surprised we were all inspired by that show as well.

    My Rating: 4.5 Stars

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    Flying acrobats, daring aerialists, and a Wonderland like no other: Cirque Alice is a must-see spectacle for the entire family. With only few performances left, don’t miss your chance to experience the magic before it closes on October 25. Secure your seats now through TicketWorld!

  • New Movies This Week: Clayface, Multwoh, The Cycle, The Fisher, and More!

    New Movies This Week: Clayface, Multwoh, The Cycle, The Fisher, and More!

    Ready for your weekly big screen fix? Opening in cinemas today are eight new movies that run the gamut from Gotham horror and Filipino drama to supernatural romance and an Oscar-winning favorite returning to the big screen. Clayface unleashes a darker side of DC, The Cycle digs into a decades-old mystery, and The Fisher puts Mon Confiado and Enchong Dee at the center of a tense seaside drama. There’s also the La La Land 10th Anniversary rerelease, the heartfelt Multwoh, wartime drama Once Upon a Time in the Middle East, Thai rom-com Henry’s First Dates, and anime romance You, Fireworks, and Our Promise.

    Need help choosing what to watch? Here are all eight new movies showing this week.

    Clayface

    2026 • R-18 • 1h 48m
    HORROR, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
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    What happens when a second chance at fame comes at a terrible price?

    Gotham City’s darker side takes center stage in this tragic, terrifying origin story. Matt Hagen, a rising Hollywood star from humble beginnings, sees his career shattered when a brutal crime boss leaves him horribly disfigured. Desperate to reclaim his former appearance, Hagen seeks out a radical, experimental treatment. The procedure miraculously restores his face, but it triggers a horrific psychological decline that sends him on an all-consuming path of vengeance.

    Blending horror, science fiction, and psychological tension, Clayface explores the frightening cost of transformation and what happens when the desire to get even takes over.

    The Cycle

    2026 • R-13 • 1h 51m
    HORROR, THRILLER
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    Some family secrets refuse to stay buried.

    Deborah Ann Woll and Jeffrey Donovan star in this tense supernatural thriller centered on long-buried secrets. When the body of a man missing for 36 years suddenly turns up at the site of a fresh, brutal crime, his estranged daughter Meg returns to her hometown to investigate. As she uncovers her father’s past, she realizes his disappearance is tied to an unsettling cycle of violence that threatens her own life.

    For horror fans who enjoy mysteries with dark histories and unsettling revelations, The Cycle offers a chilling story where the past is far from finished.

    The Fisher

    2026 • R-13 • 1h 59m
    ACTION
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    A mysterious stranger, a family in turmoil, and a fishing community facing an unsettling crisis take center stage in The Fisher, a local drama that raises difficult questions about trust and responsibility.

    Mon Confiado, Enchong Dee, and Eula Valdez star in this gripping coastal drama exploring superstition and morality in a tight-knit island community. When Pedro, an ordinary fisherman, rescues a lost stranger stranded out at sea, his act of mercy turns into a community trial. Accused of both causing a devastating fish-rotting plague and impregnating Pedro’s teenage daughter, the mysterious outsider leaves Pedro facing a terrible choice about justice and survival.

    The Fisher brings a morally complicated story to the big screen, exploring how fear, suspicion, and family ties can collide.

    Multwoh

    2026 • R-13 • 2h 6m
    COMEDY, HORROR, ROMANCE
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    What if you finally found the courage to say “I love you,” but only after you were gone?

    In Multwoh, a queer college student suddenly dies in their dorm and returns as a ghost. But instead of coming back to seek revenge, they have one unfinished piece of business: confessing their feelings to the person they love. The problem is that the words they struggled to say in life are no easier to express in death. As the ghost attempts to make that long-overdue confession, the story finds humor and tenderness in the awkwardness of love, the pain of loss, and all the things we wish we had said sooner.

    Starring Sassa Gurl, Joao Constancia, and John Lapus, Multwoh brings together comedy, horror, and romance in a heartfelt story about missed chances and feelings that refuse to disappear.

    Henry’s First Dates

    2026 • PG • 1h 54m
    COMEDY, ROMANCE
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    Imagine going on a first date that never really ends. Sounds romantic at first, right? Until you realize your date forgets everything the moment he wakes up.

    Nadech Kugimiya and Minnie star in this charming romantic comedy about starting fresh every single day. The story follows Lucy as she repeatedly goes on a first date with Henry, a warm-hearted guy who suffers from a rare medical condition that wipes his memory every time he falls asleep. Determined to win his heart over and over again, Lucy learns that true connection goes far beyond memory.

    Henry’s First Dates brings a playful twist to the familiar question of what it takes to make love work. When someone can’t remember yesterday, can the heart still find its way forward?

    La La Land – 10th Anniversary

    2016 • PG • 2h 12m
    DRAMA, MUSICAL, ROMANCE
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    Here’s to the fools who dream! Damien Chazelle’s Oscar-winning musical romance returns to theaters for a special decade celebration. 

    Emma Stone plays Mia, an aspiring actress trying to make her mark in Los Angeles, while Ryan Gosling stars as Sebastian, a jazz pianist determined to keep his musical dreams alive. As the two fall in love, they encourage each other to pursue their ambitions. But balancing a relationship with their individual dreams proves more complicated than either expects.

    La La Land 10th Anniversary is a welcome return for anyone who fell for the film the first time around. And if you missed it in cinemas, this is a lovely opportunity to experience its music and romance on the big screen.

    Once Upon a Time in the Middle East

    2026 • R-16 • 2h 20m
    DRAMA, WAR
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    Sometimes, the most important thing you can build is a place where people can feel safe.

    This sweeping historical drama centers on perseverance, friendship, and unexpected sanctuary. Chef Xu Fu moves to the Middle East seeking a fresh start to support his family, partnering with manager Ma Junsheng to turn a struggling restaurant into a beloved local success. When war erupts across the city, their eatery becomes a critical safe haven for civilians caught in the crossfire, forcing Xu Fu to risk everything to keep hope alive.

    Blending drama with the realities of war, the film explores friendship, resilience, and the importance of holding on to hope even when everything around you seems to be falling apart.

    You, Fireworks, and Our Promise

    2026 • PG • 1h 37m
    ANIMATION, DRAMA, ROMANCE
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    Some love stories are tied to a place, a moment, or a memory you never quite forget. You, Fireworks, and Our Promise brings all three together in an animated coming-of-age romance set during Japan’s famous Nagaoka Festival Grand Fireworks Show.

    Makoto is a Tokyo high school student who struggles with confidence and social interactions. Aki, on the other hand, is a popular class president admired for her beauty and talent. Their paths become connected through a drawing of a fireworks display, setting off a mysterious chain of events that neither can easily explain.

    As the mystery unfolds, Makoto and Aki find themselves caught between fate and the choices they must make. With time running out, they have to decide what their connection means and what they are willing to do for each other.

    What’s On Your Movie List This Week?

    No matter what big screen vibe you are looking for this week, the theater is ready to deliver an unforgettable escape. From dark Gotham revenge tales and 10th-anniversary musical returns to coastal mysteries, queer ghost comedies, and sweeping anime romances, there is a seat waiting for you.

    Whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s a new movie ready for your next cinema run. Grab your favorite snacks, round up your barkadas, and secure your tickets for your next big-screen fix.

    Stay tuned for next week’s fresh batch of releases and updates. Keep ClickTheCity bookmarked for the latest showtimes, your next movie is a click away!

  • “UNIQLO F.RISSO” 2026 Knitwear Capsule Collection

    “UNIQLO F.RISSO” 2026 Knitwear Capsule Collection

    Global apparel retailer UNIQLO today announces the launch of the “UNIQLO F.RISSO” 2026 Knitwear Capsule Collection. Following the Summer 2026 capsule line, this second collaboration with Francesco Risso combines the designer’s distinctively free and playful design language with modern silhouettes and bold colors made possible by the 3D knit technique*. The collection brings Risso’s unique world to life, weaving dreams into everyday clothing.

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    Commenting on the collection, Francesco Risso said:

    “The fascination was never with technology alone, but with the paradox of its possibilities: to employ machines capable of engineering a seamless piece of knitwear, only to pursue the irregularity, depth and almost primitive intimacy of something made by hand. There was a time when texture was the inevitable consequence of human touch, when every imperfection carried the evidence of its maker. I wanted to reclaim that memory through the most advanced means of production — to make the future speak the language of the past, without nostalgia or imitation. That tension between the absolute precision of the machine and the irreducible beauty of the human hand became perhaps the most compelling proposition of this collection.”

    A knit collection with playful colors and beautiful silhouettes
    With the theme of “Made for Dreaming,” this collection presents genderless styles inspired by vintage knitwear, and signature two-tone color blocking brings out each person’s individuality. The items feature the gentle feeling and sculptural shapes made possible by the 3D knit technique that knits the garment as one piece, allowing for a smooth, continuous construction with a refined silhouette. Along with turtleneck, mock neck, and polo sweaters in ultra-fine merino wool blend material that is lightweight yet warm, the lineup also includes voluminous V-neck and boat neck styles. HEATTECH socks and beanies are also available as accents to winter wardrobes.

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    Details of the UNIQLO F.RISSO 2026 Knitwear Capsule Collection

    Launch date: October 30, 2026 (Friday)
    Store availability: Full lineup at select UNIQLO stores and on UNIQLO.com

    • UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship Store  
    • UNIQLO SM Mall of Asia  
    • UNIQLO SM Megamall  
    • UNIQLO SM City North EDSA  
    • UNIQLO Greenhills Mall  
    • UNIQLO SM Aura Premier
    • UNIQLO BGC High Street  
    • UNIQLO Alabang Westgate Roadside  
    • UNIQLO Nuvali Roadside
    • UNIQLO Powerplant Mall
    • UNIQLO Ayala Center Cebu  
    • UNIQLO SM Lanang Premier  
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