Blog

Father’s Day 2022: Hotel Food Promos For Dads On His Special Day

Father’s Day is upon us and what better way to celebrate the man of the hour than with a sumptuous meal at one of Manila’s finest hotels? Of course, the best only for the best! Here, we list down hotel food promos in Metro Manila that are worth checking out and will make the men in our lives feel even more special.

City of Dreams Manila

Crystal Dragon

Surprise fathers with a banquet of premium Cantonese and regional Chinese specialties from Crystal Dragon. Located at the upper ground floor of Forbes Five-Star rated Nüwa Manila, Crystal Dragon curated ala carte specialty dishes for Father’s Day celebration, which are available from June 13 to 19 only: Double-boiled Black Chicken Soup, with pork stomach and maca; Steamed Pork Belly with preserved vegetables and served with steamed buns; Marinated Roast Farm Duck with herbs, garlic and black pepper; Pan-fried Scallop with minced prawns and abalone sauce; and Wagyu and Foie Gras Basmati Fried Rice with black truffle paste and wild rice.

Complete the Crystal Dragon experience and complement these dishes with the chef’s recommended menu, signature dim sum available for lunch, and other specialties unique to the restaurant.

On their special day on June 19, dads get a sweet surprise at the end of the meal.

Nobu Manila

Spoil dad with a brunch spread of new-style Japanese cuisine popularized by world renowned Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. The all-you-can-eat-and-drink brunch features classic fare iconic to Nobu restaurants worldwide that melds Japanese and Peruvian flavors and well loved by A-list international celebrities. Make him indulge in an extensive selection of seasonal fresh oysters, custom Nobu sashimi, sushi and maki roll creations matched with Nobu signature sauces and dressings such as the Karashi Su Miso (KSM) and Matsuhisa dressing that go well with appetizers that are uniquely Nobu. Other enticing choices temptingly laid out on a buffet counter and also brought to the table via a special a la carte menu include Filipino-inspired dishes exclusive to Nobu Manila; a selection of kushiyaki or grilled skewered seafood of meat, poultry and vegetables; and a sumptuous carving item complemented with salads, soups, and different rice and specialty dishes. Various confectionery customized by Nobu Manila’s chefs provide a sweet conclusion to a special celebration. The brunch buffet price starts at P2, 950 net per person for the standard package, inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails.

Haliya

Haliya highlights an innovative reinterpretation of the Filipino favorite lechon (roast pig) the whole month of June. Lechon Kawali comes with bagoong pickled cabbage, green mango curd, chili flakes, kinchay (cilantro) and garlic oil, crispy fried kangkong (water spinach), and soy and vinegar dipping; Lechon Paksiw with grilled king mushroom, green chili, garlic confit, garlic chips and microgreens; and Lechon Nilaga with asparagus, cabbage, baby bokchoy, corn, marbled potatoes, onion leeks, pork pata consommé and micro cress.

Crimson Hotel Filinvest City

Tingnan ang post na ito sa Instagram

Isang post na ibinahagi ni Crimson Hotel Filinvest City (@crimsonfilinvestcity)

This Father’s Day, treat Dad to a special buffet dinner at Café Eight. With cuisines from around the world and special live stations for freshly cooked meats, pasta and more, it’s not just a feast but an experience for the whole family to share.

June 19 | 6pm – 9pm
Rate per person: Php1,500
*Dad eats free if accompanied by at least 4 paying guests

For bookings and inquiries, you can call us at 0998 591 5227 or email dining@crimsonhotel.com

Diamond Hotel

Tingnan ang post na ito sa Instagram

Isang post na ibinahagi ni Diamond Hotel Philippines (@diamondhotelph)

If it’s a Japanese feast Dad wants on Father’s Day, then you have to take him to #Yurakuen to celebrate the occasion. We have a Set Family Menu Platter good for 4 persons (Php8,000) and 6 persons (Php11,000). Available on June 18 and 19, pre-order is recommended if you prefer this set menu as your lunch or dinner on Father’s Day.

Visit onlineshopping.diamondhotel.com to pre-order and reserve your table. For more information call(632) 8528-3000 or email restaurant_rsvn@diamondhotel.com. #DiamondHotelPh

Hilton Manila

Tingnan ang post na ito sa Instagram

Isang post na ibinahagi ni Hilton Manila (@hiltonmanila)

Enjoy a complimentary bottle of Heineken with any main dish order this Father’s Day at Port Bar. Choose your favoritesfrom our Pizza, Pasta, Burgers or Aussie Comfort Dishes.

June 18 -19 | 4 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Makati Diamond Residences

Tingnan ang post na ito sa Instagram

Isang post na ibinahagi ni Makati Diamond Residences (@makatidiamondresidences)

Celebrate the man of the house with a lunch buffet at Alfred on June 19, 2022.

The buffet highlights a U.S. beef prime ribeye, baked salmon, crispy pork knuckles, chicken and chorizo paella, penne carbonara and more.

Fathers get a complimentary glass of local beer. Book a table for Father’s Day Lunch at ₱2,500 net per person. For reservations, call +632 5317 0999, Viber +63917 636 4875 or email dine@makatidiamond.com.

New World Makati Hotel

Kids can also treat dad to a delectable buffet feast at Cafe 1228 on June 19 which features prime rib steak, lechon, ham, fresh and grilled seafood, and much more, as well as a selection of beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages at PHP2,250 for lunch and PHP1,750 for dinner which comes with a special gift. Or, they can have an early celebration on June 18 at PHP1,488 for lunch and PHP1,750 for dinner. Prices are nett.

For inquiries and reservations, guests can call +63288116888, e-mail reservations.manila@newworldhotels.com, or book a room package directly via the website https://manila.newworldhotels.com/en/. They can also check out the hotel’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts for the latest promotions.

Novotel Manila Araneta City

Tingnan ang post na ito sa Instagram

Isang post na ibinahagi ni Novotel Manila Araneta City (@novotelmanilaaranetacity)

On Dad’s special day, make sure you spoil him with indulgent flavors of Indian cuisine brought to you by Mumbai Express at Food Exchange Manila on June 19 – because the way to his heart is through his stomach.

For more information, visit https://bit.ly/MyFoodieDaddy

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

Tingnan ang post na ito sa Instagram

Isang post na ibinahagi ni Sofitel Manila (@sofitelmanila)

Get ready for an incredible Father’s Day Brunch at Spiral this June 19, 2022! With their wide selection of local and international fare, such as lechon, wagyu beef rump, and peking duck roll, you can treat your dad or partner to an incredible Father’s Day feast he won’t forget.

Rates start at Php 4,900 nett per person. Reserve your table today at bit.ly/SpiralReservationForm.

The Peninsula Manila

Celebrate Father’s Day with an epicurean adventure at Escolta restaurant’s lavish Sunday buffet brunch with all of dad’s favorites. Enjoy this heart-warming Father’s Day Sunday brunch that comes with a complimentary invitation to Salon de Ning’s Pen Ultimate Father’s Day Dream Lounge for an afternoon of pampering that they will remember for many years to come.

Dads will enjoy complimentary cocktails and pica-pica and win exciting prizes at the exclusive five-hours-only, pop-up Pen Ultimate Father’s Day Dream Lounge in Salon de Ning on June 19.

P 4,200 (adults)
P 2,100 (children under 12)

All prices are inclusive of a 10% service charge and prevailing government taxes. For inquiries or reservations, please call +63 (2) 887-2888, extensions 6630 (Room Reservations) or e-mail ReservationPMN@peninsula.com; 6691 or 6694 (Restaurant Reservations) or email DiningPMN@peninsula.com. You may also visit peninsula.com, like The Peninsula Manila on Facebook and follow @thepeninsulamanila on Instagram.

June 14, 2022
Experience Netflix and Thrills with your Favorite Barkadas at “Alas Netflix”

For the first time ever, Netflix Philippines is launching Alas Netflix, a self-produced web series where fans can celebrate their beloved Netflix titles with their favorite barkadas. Hosted by none other than our favorite Netflix besties, Jaz Reyes and Pipay, each episode of Alas Netflix shows popular celebrity barkadas playing fun and challenging K-variety show-inspired games that will not only test their teamwork and friendship, but more importantly, prove just how well they know Netflix titles. (Hint: Episode 1 is based on a very popular K-zombie series.) The key to winning? Being the biggest Netflix fan.

First 3 episodes of Alas Netflix will feature BGYO

Alas Netflix will be premiering today, June 14, with its very first celebrity barkada challenger – P-Pop royalty, BGYO featuring Gelo, Akira, JL, Mikki, and Nate. Join us for the pilot episode and witness our beloved Aces of P-Pop breeze through their very first challenge. Note: Their performance will definitely BLOW you away. Exciting prizes (or hilarious penalties) await our contenders at the end of every episode.

ALAS NETFLIX with besties, Jaz and Pipay

Cheer for your ultimate biases as they battle it out to determine if they have what it takes to emerge victorious from the exciting challenges that Netflix has in store. Watch weekly episodes of Alas Netflix every Tuesday at 7:00 PM only on Netflix Philippines’ Youtube channel.

AlasNetflix #BGYOonAlasNetflix

June 14, 2022
Netflix Geeked Week – Day 5 Recap

Geeked Week is officially wrapped, but the games are just beginning. Hosts Geoff Keighley and Mari Takahashi closed the five-day virtual event on Friday with a slew of news and first looks about all things games, ranging from games-inspired series like The Cuphead Show! and Sonic Prime to our long list of new mobile games, which will double our current catalog to approximately 50 titles by the end of 2022. Learn about new releases like Poinpy — now available to play! — and get ready to step into the world of your favorite Netflix series and films with games such as La Casa de Papel and The Queen’s Gambit Chess.

Missed the epic Geeked Week finale? Don’t stress! We’ve compiled all of the latest announcements, hottest clips and everything in between every day this week to keep you up-to-date and in the know.

Dragon Age: Absolution: That’s right! The hit role-playing video game is being adapted as an animated series at Netflix, and we’ve got the new teaser and the poster to prove it.

Tekken: Bloodline: The iconic Japanese fighting game franchise is getting the anime treatment! Hear from Chief Producer Katsuhiro Harada as he introduces never-before-seen exclusive clips from the series and touches on the background of a fan favorite character. Check out some exclusive footage and a special message from Katsuhiro Harada.

Shadow and Bone: Destinies: Straight from the Fold comes a new mobile game based on the fan-favorite series. Get a first look at this single-player RPG where you can step into the shoes of your favorite characters and journey across the world of the Grishaverse.

Too Hot to Handle: Swipe left on this sneak peek from the upcoming mobile game based on the Netflix series and get ready to meet and mingle with a whole new cast of sexy singles vying for your affection.

La Casa De Papel: It’s not all relaxation and romance. We’re excited to unveil this single-player action-adventure game based on the hit series, in which players crack safes, pick locks and help rob a casino in Monaco — all to help an old friend of the Professor’s. Watch the first look gameplay here.

It's time to put on the Dali mask. A La Casa De Papel game is on it's way to Netflix! #GeekedWeek pic.twitter.com/hUjTnYvjAK
— Netflix Geeked (@NetflixGeeked) June 10, 2022

The Queen’s Gambit Chess: The tables have turned and now you get to take part in the ultimate game of chess. See a first look at the trailer and the locations for this upcoming game, which lets you take lessons, play puzzles and matches, and compete against online competitors or familiar faces from the award-winning limited series. Official game trailer here

The Cuphead Show!: Get ready for the latest misadventures of the impulsive Cuphead and his cautious brother Mugman with a new teaser for the upcoming episodes of this video game-turned-series. Official teaser here.

Want more scoop on what’s to come? Then check out this table read from a new never-before-seen episode and see the faces behind those iconic voices. Check out The Cuphead Show! table read here

Lucky Luna: Check out the first trailer for this platformer based on Japanese folklore, in which you can join Luna on a magical journey to the depths of hidden dungeons and mythical temples as she unlocks the mysteries of her past. Official game trailer here

Desta: The Memories Between: Duck and cover… and watch the trailer for this new turn-based strategy game inspired by the game of dodgeball. Overcome broken relationships and a tragic family event, all through the medium of a surreal and exciting ball game. Official game trailer here

Reigns: Three Kingdoms: The beloved game series that lets you rule your own kingdom and change your destiny with a single swipe is coming to Netflix. This time, you can dive headlong into ancient China and climb the ranks to navigate the epic Chinese saga of The Romance of the Three Kingdoms.

Terra Nil: Who wants to save the planet? With a nod at the current climate crisis, this game subverts the city-builder genre to let you do just that. Use technology to rejuvenate barren wastelands, then recycle all the structures you used to do it, leaving nothing behind but pristine wilderness.

Poinpy: To celebrate the launch of this vertical climber game — available to download and play today! — see the trailer for this experience that lets you dodge adorable baddies and feed the blue beast hot on your heels. Warning: The more you play, the harder the game gets. Official game trailer here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDA33JqHIjE

DOTA: Dragon’s Blood: Sneak a peek at Season 3 of this fantasy adaptation of the beloved game as Davion the Dragon Knight continues his quest to make the world a safer place one dragon slay at a time.

Wild Things: Animal Adventures: Dragons aren’t the only creatures on the loose! As the trailer hints, this new game tasks players with helping restore cute beasts to their wildlands (ranging from lush forests to tropical islands to icy terrains) by playing match-3 puzzles and restoring their habitats to health. Watch the full Games Day show to see the trailer and get more info.

Sonic Prime: Our favorite hedgehog is coming to Netflix as you’ve never seen him before. Get a sneak peek at this new animated series featuring an incredible twist that puts the fate of the multiverse in his gloved hands. First look here

Raji: An Ancient Epic: Paging all Raji fans! The Indian action-adventure game is coming to Netflix. Step into the shoes of Raji, the young orphan chosen by the gods to stand against the demonic invasion, as she tries to rescue her younger brother and face the demon lord Mahabalasura.

Spiritfarer: This award-winning cozy management game about dying is coming to Netflix, and we’ve got the new trailer. As Stella, a Spirtfarer and ferrymaster to the deceased, you can explore the world, farm, mine, fish, harvest, cook, and craft while spending quality time with your spirit passengers, creating lasting memories and learning to say goodbye.

Castlevania: Nocturne: A year ago, we ended Geeked Week on an epic mic drop: News of a new Castlevania series centered on Richter Belmont during the French Revolution. Now, get a sneak peek at the iconic Rondo of Blood hero in action. Check out the announcement here

About Netflix:

Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services with 222 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, documentaries, feature films and mobile games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can watch as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, on any internet-connected screen. Members can play, pause and resume watching, all without commercials or commitments.

June 14, 2022
Love Who You Love: LGBTQIA+ Movies and Series About Loving Freely on iWantTFC

Love is love – this is most especially true for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether you are straight, gay, lesbian, trans, or queer, you are free to love whoever you want. While it may seem easy, there are some who still struggle to love freely and iWantTFC is here to remind you to love who you love.

This Pride Month, iWantTFC has put together a selection of empowering movies and series about accepting same-sex relationships and accepting one’s sexuality and sexual preference. Here are LGBT-themed titles that you can stream for free:

1.“The Boy Foretold by the Stars” and “Love Beneath the Stars”

The movie “The Boy Foretold by the Stars” and its sequel series “Love Beneath the Stars” are everything you’d hope for in a Pinoy boys’ love (BL) story. With Adrian Lindayag and Keann Johnson’s portrayal of Dominic and Luke respectively, the story of two lovers from an all-boys Catholic school who end up falling in love and decide to break free from the constraints of society is beautifully highlighted.

In the coming-of-age story, Luke learns how to confront his sexual identity when he falls for Dominic, who is openly gay. While the movie and series feature a lot of puppy love moments, it also very much puts emphasis on having to deal with mature relationships and overcoming backlash from loved ones because of one’s sexual preference.

2. “Bakit Lahat ng Gwapo May Boyfriend?”

Whether you’re “out and proud,” “in the closet,” unsure of yourself, or simply just you, you can definitely learn a thing or two in “Bakit Lahat ng Gwapo May Boyfriend?” In this romantic-comedy film, wedding planner Kylie (Anne Curtis), who has had a string of boyfriends who turned out to be gay, is out to prove that her dashing client Diego (Dennis Trillo) isn’t actually straight.

In the process, Kylie finds herself falling in love with Diego, who in fact isn’t gay at all, and ultimately learns how to accept and be comfortable with her relationship with her gay best friend Benj (Paolo Ballesteros). While the movie is no means a boys’ love nor does it shun same-sex relationships, it teaches us to not judge people, to not allow others to define who we are or what we feel, and most importantly, it teaches us to embrace our sexuality no matter how we identify ourselves.

3. “My Lockdown Romance”

Having suppressed feelings for a friend is always a tough situation to deal with – this is what Tom (Jameson Blake), a closeted gay man, had to endure in “My Lockdown Romance.” Tom has always had a crush on his college best friend Kendrick (Joao Constancia) but is afraid to confess his feelings out of fear of losing their friendship.

In Star Cinema’s feel-good BL flick, the two male leads show viewers what it means to restore friendships and reignite feelings. Although Tom was insecure about coming out as gay, he eventually learned how to truly embrace who he is and his being honest also led to his special bond with Kendrick.

4. “Boyette: Not a Girl Yet”

Zaijian Jaranilla plays a flamboyant gay teenager and a straight boy at the same time in “Boyette: Not a Girl Yet.” In the movie, Boyette (Zaijian) pretends to be straight when his long-time homophobic crush Charles (Inigo Pascual) recruits him to a dance club. In an awkward yet hilarious twist, Nancy (Maris Racal), Charles’ crush, ends up getting smitten by Boyette instead.

While the film is very light-hearted, it effectively conveys an eye-opening message to its viewers – be unapologetically you and dismiss all the backlash about your sexuality because what’s important is your own happiness.

5. “Fluid”

This iWantTFC original series painstakingly shows everyone, whether you’re a member of the LGBT community or not, that it is A-okay to catch feelings for someone of the same gender and exploring these relationships is fine as well. Here, Mitch (Roxanne Barcelo) explores dating other women after multiple failed relationships with men.

Mitch then meets George (Ann Colis), a proud lesbian, who shows her what it truly means to fall in love. “Fluid” will teach viewers to be courageous in taking risks, learn how to whole-heartedly accept change, and that same-sex relationships can provide the same love and comfort just as heteronormative relationships.

6. “2gether” and “Still 2gether”

Thai BL series have become increasingly popular recently thanks to Bright Vachirawit and Win Metawin’s “2gether” series and its sequel “Still 2gether.” The swoon-worthy scenes between Tine (Win) and Sarawat (Bright) are a major contribution as to why viewers are easily hooked, but BL stories undoubtedly impart striking lessons as well.

In “2gether” and “Still 2gether,” viewers are able to relate to the characters as they come to terms with their sexuality. And while Tine and Sarawat navigate their feelings towards each other, they’re also dealing with their own personal struggles – which they eventually learn how to solve as a couple.

Viewers can also watch “Oh, Mando!,” “Mga Batang POZ,” “Die Beautiful,” “Third Party” and Thai titles “Bad Buddy,” “Enchanté,” “Not Me,” “Baker Boys, and “Dark Blue Kiss.” Celebrate Pride Month by watching these movies and series for free on the iWantTFC app (iOs and Android) and website (iwanttfc.com). Viewers can get easy access to iWantTFC’s content library with its “watch now, register later” feature. Watch iWantTFC on a larger screen with select devices, including VEWD, ROKU, and Amazon Fire streaming devices, Android TV, select Samsung Smart TV models, Telstra TV (in Australia), and VIDAA in select countries. Additionally, iWantTFC is available via Chromecast and Airplay. Visit https://iwanttfc.com/help#tfc-on-smart-tv for a complete list of compatible devices, sign-in instructions, and account activation.

For updates, like www.facebook.com/iWantTFC and follow @iwanttfc on Twitter and Instagram, and subscribe to www.youtube.com/iWantTFC. For inquiries and concerns about the service, users can also send a message on iWantTFC’s Facebook page or e-mail support@iwanttfc.com.

June 14, 2022
Ro Woon Live in Manila, A KmmunityPH Exclusive Fan Meet

We’ve celebrated all things hallyu at the Kamsahamnida Festival last month, and got thrilled by Kim Seon Ho at his debut as a KmmunityPH ambassador. Now, get ready for more excitement as Globe’s ultimate K-culture community continues its third anniversary celebration with another special surprise: actor RO WOON’s Live in Manila.

Catch the leading star of the Netflix series “Tomorrow” live on June 26 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, where RO WOON will have a fan meet event exclusive to New Glone One App subscribers, made possible by KmmunityPH.

To score tickets to the event, download the new Globe One App and click on the KmmunityPH banner to get all the details you need. Pre-registration to early access is open until today, June 10. Aside from this, Globe customers can also get a chance to win tickets through its Ultimate Stan Promo from June 10-17 or watch Ro Woon via livestream when Globe customers register to Daebak499 from June 20-26 via the New Globe One app. Globe customers will receive 3GB for 3 days, unique ticket code to the livestream event and lifestyle voucher of choice from partners Agoda, Boozy or Klook!

RO WOON’s Fan Meet is part of KmmunityPH’s daebak surprise as it celebrates its third year anniversary. “KmmunityPH members can expect more in the months to come!” says Pia Gonzalez-Colby, Globe Marketing head.

Launched in 2019, Kmmunity PH is a multi-channel community group for customers who love

everything K—music, films, dramas, food, beauty, fashion, merch, and, most especially, idols.

Through events such as the Kamsahamnida Festival and RO WOON’S upcoming Fan Meet, Globe hopes to support Pinoys’ passion for K-culture and continue providing a safe space for them to share all their passion for everything and anything Korean.

“K-culture isn’t just a passion point for Filipinos, but is also a means to connect and be part of a larger, like-minded community,” says Colby. “At Globe, we want to empower this community and take their K-experience to the next level!”

Download the New Globe One app at glbe.co/NewGlobeONE today for more details.

Join and follow the Kmmunity on the following social media channels:

Facebook: Kmmunity PH | Viber: glbe.co/kmmunityviber | Twitter: http://twitter.com/KmmunityPH Youtube: http://glbe.co/KmmunityPHonYT

June 14, 2022
Tara Allez!: Fete de la Musique is Going Back to the Live Stage

This June, the most popular free music event celebrated in 130 countries around the world is going back live again for the first time in the Philippines since the pandemic.

Fête de la Musique PH, after hosting two online editions in 2020 and 2021, gears up to showcase some of the country’s best, freshest, and most diverse acts in the local music scene with a series of live celebrations across Metro Manila, Palawan, Baguio, Cebu, and Siargao.

Cheats

This year’s edition aims to provide generous French-Filipino cross-cultural exchange while also harnessing the healing power of music, forging new friendships, and building & supporting communities. Entitled “Tara Allez!” or “let’s go!” in both colloquial Filipino (“tara”) and French (“allez”), Fête PH 2022 will feature new and exciting collaborations between artists from the Philippines & France. This is also in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of Franco-Phil bilateral relations.

Brass Pas Pas Pas Pas

“We’re excited to bring the Fête de la Musique celebrations back to the beautiful places of the Philippines,” says Xavier Leroux, Executive Director of Alliance Francaise de Manille. “This year’s festivities will find us rediscovering the joys of live and in-person music once again.”

As part of Fête de la Musique’s continued partnership with the Department of Tourism, this year’s festivities will celebrate not only the artists and music from various parts of the country but will also showcase the natural beauty and rich culture of some of the Philippines’ most popular tourist destinations.

Lola Amour

“Now that the Philippines is open to fully-vaccinated individuals from all over the world, there’s no better time than now to explore our islands, and immerse in our vibrant arts, music, and culture,” enthused DOT Assistant Secretary for Branding and Marketing Communications Howard Uyking.

The Itchyworms

The main stage for Fête de la Musique 2022 will be at the Puerta Real Gardens, Intramuros on June 25 with performances from Cheats, The Itchyworms, Lola Amour, Anima Tierra, and a special number by Brass Pas Pas Pas Pas featuring Curtismith, Toni B., Faye Yupano & Zsaris. More surprises and performers will be announced soon.

Pushing 2021’s virtual #FeteFromMyIsland theme even further, Fête PH 2022 also teamed up with various partners across the Philippine archipelago to support their own physical Fete-stivities, namely Lokal Lab for the Siargao Stage on June 21 in Santa Fe Beachfront Playground; Kalye Artisano x Lio Estate for the El Nido Stages on June 26 & 28 both in Kalye Artisano; and Melt Records x Alliance Francaise de Cebu for the Cebu Stages on June 25 in Draft Punk & June 26 in La Vie.

French artists Marc Fichel, DJ Blutch, and Maxime Cozic will also be flying in from Paris to perform around the country.

DJ Blutch credits Evan Lunven

Singer-songwriter and pianist Marc Fichel will perform in Sofitel on June 23; at the main stage in Intramuros on June 25 in a collaboration with The Voice Teens grand winner Cydel Gabutero; and alongside Palawan-based musicians in El Nido on June 26.

DJ Blutch, known for his abstract hip hop and house mixes with video mapping will also perform in Sofitel on June 24; at the main stage in Intramuros on June 25 in a collaboration with a surprise Filipino movement act and will be joining Cebu-based musicians in the City of Smiles on June 26.

Dancer and choreographer Maxime Cozic will perform both his 18-minute solo piece and in collaboration with embodiment artist Dona Tumacder-Esteban and improvisational drum circle Bathala Na at the final Fête PH 2022 stage in Kalye Artisano in Lio Estate on June 28.

Maxime Photo Crédit _ Moïse de Giovanni

In addition, Fête de la Musique has once again partnered with over 30 independently produced pocket stages in Metro Manila to simultaneously feature various genres and musical moods on June 24. The participating venues include Alchemy Bistro Bar, Archipelago Makati, Boogie, Braiser’s The Village Cafe in Paranaque, Commune, Craven’s Bar and Restaurant, Dear Adam Sweet Lucy, Elements Boutique Hotel, Futur:st, H&J Restaurant, Kampai, La Collina, Leisure HQ, OTO, Pardon My French, Pura Vida Manila, Saguaro Bar & Cafe, Skinny Mike’s Sports Bar in BGC, The Apartment, The Green Door, The Astbury, The Social on Ebro, The Spirits Library, Topic, Thumbayan Grill, White Banana, WYP, Z Hostel. Some performers include Basically Saturday Night, Johnny Alegre, Ean Mayor of UDD, Coffeebreak Island with Bing Austria & Tuesday Vargas, Tropical Depression Apartel, Mulan and Samantha Nicole.

Fête de la Musique also partnered with Funkybeat Entertainment, a music production company led by Francis De Veyra to produce and compose an anthem for Tara Allez!. Featuring an inter-island collaboration among artists across the country, from Manila and Cebu to Palawan, the song perfectly captures how music brings people together, giving a sense of community and belongingness through good vibrations and camaraderie.

Fete de la Musique in the Philippines 2022 is presented by Alliance Française de Manille, in partnership with the Embassy of France to the Philippines and B Side Productions, and co-organized by the Department of Tourism. The event is also organized in partnership with SM Malls, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Intramuros Administration, Outbound Asia Inc., Funkybeat Entertainment, Kumu, Sofitel Manila, Institut Français, and TV5 Monde, Baba Manila, and Jagged Perspective. With the support of Lio Resorts and AirSwift.

June 14, 2022
‘Lightyear’ is a solid, fun adventure movie but falls short of Pixar’s standard of great filmmaking

‘Lightyear’ is an animated science fiction adventure film from Pixar, which expands the world of the ‘Toy Story’ franchise by being a sort of origin story for the character Buzz Lightyear. The fictional astronaut Buzz Lightyear, whose toy became a prominent character in the ‘Toy Story’ series of films was based on a movie, which was Andy’s favourite film. So ‘Lightyear’ is the movie, released in 1995, that the Buzz Lightyear toy was based on.

Director and co-writer Angus McLane wanted to use this film as a “tribute” to the science fiction films he grew up with like ‘Star Wars.’ There is a push-and-pull between early 90s sensibilities alongside contemporary values and mores. What is created is a rich world and enjoyable characters that would have been revolutionary and exciting if the film really was released in the 90s.

‘Lightyear’ portrays Buzz Lightyear as a fearless captain, highly competent, and very arrogant in a humoristic way. It helps that Chris Evans’ voice acting for Buzz is imbued with so much earnestness that it really helps cement the character down pat. We see a sort of a maverick figure, one who is unaccustomed to making mistakes, prefers to do things alone, but will always give respect to his commanding officer, Alisha Hawthorne (voiced by Uzo Aduba). The film begins with the ship of Space Rangers arriving at an uninhabited planet. On a quick reconnaissance mission, Buzz, Commander Hawthorne, and a rookie, whom Buzz does not want to tag along, discover the planet is a hostile one and end up marooned on the planet in the process.

The story manages to quickly establish Buzz’s guilt for his part in their being marooned on this planet, his friendship with Commander Hawthorne, and his obsessive drive to set things right. What unfolds is a rather complex story that involves time, Buzz’s need to open up and take the whole weight of the burden on himself, and the attack of the Zergs on the Space Rangers.

While ‘Lightyear’ has what we’ve come to expect from a Pixar animated film: great humor, thrilling setups, a tight and rather surprisingly complex story with a narrative flow that is quite unexpected, and some truly great humanistic moments that even got me teary-eyed at some point; there’s something in ‘Lightyear’ that feels missing.

All of Pixar’s filmography that I’ve seen has been absolutely terrific. From each film in the ‘Toy Story’ series to ‘Monsters Inc.’ to ‘The Incredibles,’ and even the more recent ones like ‘Turning Red’ or ‘Inside Out’ or ‘Soul,’ there’s just something so wonderfully endearing in each of these films that I would immediately consider them classics. And while Buzz Lightyear’s character growth and personal epiphanies are quite strong messages to impart to its audience – the value of camaraderie and the value in allowing our mistakes to help us grow – it doesn’t feel as universal a message as it should.

While genre films like science fiction or horror or fantasy are great narrative forms to take to form a metaphor to test the human condition, there seems to be a distance in ‘Lightyear’ and his learnings from our own, unlike, say, Woody and Buzz’s learnings in ‘Toy Story’ or that of Sully and Mike Wachowski in ‘Monsters Inc.’ There is an everyman quality to the characters of ‘Toy Story’ or ‘Inside Out’ or ‘Soul’ that we can easily relate to, while Buzz seems so extraordinary that it’s hard to take his growth as our own.

It’s all familiar and recognisable, but it’s just hard to ride on.

At the same time, there are flourishes in the story’s narrative that bring up images of colonization and imperialism that don’t sit well with me. Yes, the planet is uninhabited by intelligent lifeforms so the marooned Space Rangers set up a station and begin mining the planet’s resources. And while it all makes sense (especially for a film made in the 90s), it brings to light the human nature to take possession and use anything in the world for their own uses. While this is a science fiction film and maybe they are keeping the ecological and environmental stability of the world in check; in this day and age of global warming and dwindling resources, it just feels off to see it so blatantly in this film.

But it is still a fun movie. Sox, the robot cat that is given to Buzz, is just a wonderful character and is definitely going to be a fan favourite (and a treat for all cat lovers) and all the new characters are unique and recognizable that you are guaranteed to have a fun time.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Disney and Pixar’s Lightyear (@pixarslightyear)

And while ‘Lightyear’ is a good film, a solid one, it’s not a great film. And when Pixar has been churning out great films with each release, the film suffers only in comparison. And that’s not entirely fair.

My Rating:

––

‘Lightyear‘ opens in Phillippine cinemas on Wednesday, June 15. Buy your tickets here.

ALSO READ:
WATCH: ‘Lightyear’ Trailer Teases an Action-Packed ‘Toy Story’ Spinoff
WATCH: Disney & Pixar’s ‘Lightyear’ Unveils Out-of-this-World Trailer
Chris Evans Lends His Voice to Buzz Lightyear in Disney and Pixar’s ‘LIGHTYEAR’

June 14, 2022
“Minions: The Rise of Gru” to Open in Local Cinemas on June 29

From the biggest global animated franchise in history, comes the origin story of how the world’s greatest supervillain first met his iconic Minions, forged cinema’s most despicable crew and faced off against the most unstoppable criminal force ever assembled in Minions: The Rise of Gru.

Minions: The Rise of Gru traces pre-villain Gru long before he became the master of evil. We first see Gru (Oscar® nominee Steve Carell) as a 12-year-old boy in 1970s suburbia, plotting to take over the world from his basement which is not going particularly well. When Gru crosses paths with the Minions, including Kevin, Stuart, Bob, and Otto—a new Minion sporting braces and a desperate need to please—this unexpected family joins forces. Together, they build their first lair, design their first weapons, and strive to execute their first missions.

At a young age, Gru has always wanted to join the supervillain supergroup called the Vicious 6. When its legendary martial arts fighter Wild Knuckles (Oscar® winner Alan Arkin)— Gru, their most devoted fanboy, finds a way to the interview to become their newest member. The Vicious 6 is not impressed by the diminutive, wannabe villain, but then Gru outsmarts (and enrages) them, and he suddenly finds himself the mortal enemy of the apex of evil. With Gru on the run, the Minions attempt to master the art of kung fu to help save him, and Gru discovers that even bad guys need a little help from their friends.

Featuring more spectacular action than any film in Illumination history and packed with the franchise’s signature subversive humor, Minions: The Rise of Gru stars a thrilling new cast, including, the Vicious 6: Taraji P. Henson as cool and confident leader Belle Bottom, whose chain belt doubles as a lethal disco-ball mace; Jean-Claude Van Damme as the nihilistic Jean Clawed, who’s armed (literally) with a giant robotic claw; Lucy Lawless as Nunchuck, whose traditional nun’s habit hides her deadly nun-chucks; Dolph Lundgren as Swedish roller-skate champion Svengeance, who dispenses his enemies with spin kicks from his spiked skates; and Danny Trejo as Stronghold, whose giant iron hands are both a menace to others and a burden to him.

The film also stars Russell Brand as Young Dr. Nefario, an aspiring mad scientist, Michelle Yeoh as Master Chow, an acupuncturist with mad kung fu skills, and Oscar® winner Julie Andrews as Gru’s maddeningly self-absorbed mom.

From Illumination and Universal Pictures International, Minions: The Rise of Gru opens in local cinemas nationwide on June 29.

June 14, 2022
The Official Spirit Of The NBA: Game Never Stops with Henessy and NBA

Hennessy, the world’s best selling cognac, continues to highlight its global partnership with the National Basketball Association (NBA) during its 75th season this year. The multiyear agreement, which marks the leagues first-ever global partnership with a spirits brand, ushers in the next chapter of Hennessy’s relationship with NBA and the impact the two have on pop culture.

“We are honored by the distinction as the first global spirit partner in the NBA’s history,” said Julie Nollet, Hennessy global CMO. “The NBA is more than basketball, and Hennessy is more than cognac. We represent global communities, and this partnership empowers us to support a game and culture that brings people together through entertainment and camaraderie despite the current challenges faced by fans around the world. We share the NBA’s core values of integrity, teamwork, respect and innovation, which are more powerful than ever as we work to inspire and unite people across the globe.”

“This partnership expansion marks an exciting milestone for the league as Hennessy becomes the NBA’s first-ever global spirits partner,” said Dan Rossomondo, NBA Senior Vice President, Media and Business Development. “We look forward to continuing to celebrate the game of basketball alongside this iconic brand and our fans around the world.”

Throughout this June, Moet Hennessy Philippines brings fans together through several watch parties at Hennessy x NBA VIP Room located at Distillery BGC so they can toast to their favorite teams with HEnnessy Very Special. Hennessy is here to celebrate those who embody the ‘Never Stop, Never Settle’ mindset and commitment to drive culture forward. With that, they are thrilled to provide a space for basketball fans in the country through a range of events, activation, and exciting content.

Hennessy eagerly spreads the true Spirit of the NBA through this campaign, aiming to take its partnership with NBA to a new and unexplored level. As the league approaches its final games, Hennessy invites you to celebrate shared excellence on and off the court.

To learn more about Hennessy and NBA partnership, visit Hennessy.com or @Hennessy on Instagram.

June 13, 2022
LOOK: Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear” World Premiere Event

(L-R) Angus MacLane, Galyn Susman, Producer and Chris Evans

Stars, filmmakers and special guests came together tonight at Hollywood’s El Capitan Theatre to celebrate Pixar Animation Studios’ 26th feature film, “Lightyear.” Members of the voice cast in attendance include Chris Evans (Buzz Lightyear), Keke Palmer (Izzy Hawthorne), Peter Sohn (Sox), Dale Soules (Darby Steel), James Brolin (Zurg), Uzo Aduba (Alisha Hawthorne), Mary McDonald-Lewis (I.V.A.N.), Isiah Whitlock Jr. (Commander Burnside) and Efren Ramirez (Airman Díaz). Joining them were filmmakers Angus MacLane (directed by/story by/screenplay by), Galyn Susman, p.g.a. (produced by), Jason Headley (story by/screenplay by) and Michael Giacchino (music by). Special guests in attendance include Jabari Banks, Yvette Nicole Brown, Sherry Cola, Matt Cornett, Denise Crosby, Patrick Fabian, Xochitl Gomez, Jack Dylan Grazer, Tiffany Haddish, Skai Jackson, De Andre Jordan, Nathan Kress, Tom Marshburn, Griffin Matthews, Aaron Paul, Kristen Schaal, Iman Shumpert, Patrick Starr, Andre Swilley, Jon Voight, Ramona Young and Idara Victor.

“Lightyear” opens in Philippine cinemas this Wednesday, June 15, 2022.

ABOUT THE MOVIE

A sci-fi action adventure and the definitive origin story of Buzz Lightyear, the hero who inspired the toy, “Lightyear” follows the legendary Space Ranger after he’s marooned on a hostile planet 4.2 million light-years from Earth alongside his commander and their crew. As Buzz tries to find a way back home through space and time, he’s joined by a group of ambitious recruits and his charming robot companion cat, Sox. Complicating matters and threatening the mission is the arrival of Zurg, an imposing presence with an army of ruthless robots and a mysterious agenda.

The film features the voices of Chris Evans as accomplished Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear, Uzo Aduba as his commander and best friend Alisha Hawthorne and Peter Sohn as Sox. Keke Palmer, Taika Waititi and Dale Soules lend their voices to the Junior Zap Patrol’s Izzy Hawthorne, Mo Morrison and Darby Steel, respectively, and James Brolin can be heard as the enigmatic Zurg. The voice cast also includes Mary McDonald-Lewis as onboard computer I.V.A.N., Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Commander Burnside, Efren Ramirez as Airman Diaz, and Keira Hairston as Young Izzy. Directed by Angus MacLane (co-director “Finding Dory”), produced by Galyn Susman (“Toy Story That Time Forgot”) and featuring a score by award-winning composer Michael Giacchino (“The Batman,” “Up”), Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear” opens Philippine in cinemas on June 15, 2022.

June 13, 2022