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10 Detective Games on PC & Consoles That Will Test Your Sleuthing Skills

One of the tools that could make a story engaging and unforgettable is a good mystery entwined with surprising plot twists. This is why the mystery genre continues to thrive, because we can’t deny that ecstatic feeling of joining a detective in solving a compelling case, being presented with clues, and getting that “Aha!” moment once the truth comes to light.

Of course, this applies mostly to shows, films, and books. Meanwhile, video games could make the feeling even more enjoyable because it really puts you in the shoes of the character and it’s really up to you if you could solve the mystery! If you want to play such games where you get to solve cases, here are some titles you better check out!

LA Noire

Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch

From Rockstar Games, the creator of the Grand Theft Auto series, comes this crime thriller with breathtaking action on top of its interactive detective story. Set during Hollywood’s post-war Golden Age, LA Noire makes you assume the role of LAPD detective Cole Phelps, solve a string of arson attacks, brutal murders, conspiracies, and a secret that could shake the corrupted city at its core.

The Wolf Among Us

Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Android, and iOS

TellTale Games’ The Wolf Among Us is a graphic mystery adventure set in Fabletown, where fairy tales and the real world converge. You play as Bigby Wolf, formerly known as the Big Bad Wolf, who is tasked to keep his fellow Fables– magical creatures disguised as humans–in check. When the unstable peace in Fabletown is further disturbed by a murder, Bigby must find out the truth before it’s too late. Like TellTale’s other titles such as The Walking Dead series, this game is packed with choices that will affect how your story progresses.

Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy

Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Android, and iOS

The first Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney game was released in 2001 for the Game Boy Advance and has become available on multiple platforms since its HD remake. In this trilogy, you set off as the rookie attorney Phoenix Wright who must defend your clients from all sorts of accusations. As Wright, you must investigate the crime scenes, gather evidence, and take them to court where you’ll have to bring out the truth from the witnesses by pointing out contradictions in their testimonies and presenting proof of their lies. Despite the court setting, the game is lighthearted with really entertaining dialogues and stories.

The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles

Available on PC, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch

The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles serves as a prequel to the original franchise, where players will follow the story of Wright’s ancestor Ryunosuke Naruhodo. The gameplay formula also follows the main series, but what makes this duology refreshing is that it is set in Victorian-era Japan and Britain. Joining the rookie attorney Ryunosuke in his mission to uphold justice are an ensemble of colorful characters including the English consulting detective Herlock Sholmes.

Disco Elysium

Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Stadia, and Nintendo Switch

This detective RPG title is designed like an open-world game that gives you a lot of choices and paths to follow. In fact, in this game, you could end up as an honorable detective or take bribes and get rich. Shape your character with 24 wildly different skills, a wide selection of tools, psychoactive substances, and more! Aside from a massive murder case, you can also navigate Disco Elysium’s world and solve side-cases during breaks.

Return of the Obra Dinn

Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch

This first-person mystery game offers unique visuals with its minimalist pixel graphics. In 1802, the merchant ship went missing at sea. Five years later, it appears at Falmouth with damaged sails and no visible crew. As an insurance investigator, your mission is to travel to Falmouth, find a way into the ship, and assess the damages. Of course, you might as well discover what really happened to the ship after all these years.

Discworld Noir

Discworld Noir has been around since 1999 and it remains worthy of a playthrough for players dedicated to the genre, that is if they’re able to secure a copy. Based on Terry Pratchett’s satirical Discworld universe in the comics, this game follows Discworld’s only private investigator as a mysterious murder drags him into a sinister plot involving the deadly occult in the city.

Photo: Steam Games website

Frog Detective 2: The Case of the Invisible Wizard

Available on PC

Here’s a whimsical detective game with an estimated 1-hour playthrough for your quick sleuthing satisfaction. Play as the Frog Detective in this sequel where you must find out ‘whodunnit’ when the town’s welcoming celebration for a mysterious invisible wizard ends tragically.

Gemini Rue

Available on PC and iOS

Gemini Rue tells the sci-fi story of two characters whose fates are meant to converge and affect the whole galaxy. Azriel Odin is a former assassin who arrives on the rain-drenched planet of Barracus and must seek the help of the criminals he used to work for. Meanwhile, from across the galaxy, a man called Delta-Six wakes up on a hospital bed with no memory. The two would soon discover a world where life is cheap and identities are bought and sold like consumable products.

Sherlock Holmes: Crimes & Punishments

Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch

The detective genre may not be as impressive as it is without Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes. While the character has been into many video games, one of the recent titles that players would appreciate is Sherlock Holmes: Crimes & Punishments. Become the consulting detective and solve six compelling cases involving murders, missing persons, spectacular thefts, and more!

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Looking for more video games to play? Check out our latest video game lists. Stay in the loop and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

March 25, 2022
Send Gentle Vibes and Win Prizes with Tic Tac

The past few years have highlighted the importance of our connection with friends and loved ones; they have made our lives so much brighter and easier. Mints brand Tic Tac gives us a unique and special way to send love and good vibes to our lives with its newest campaign “Good MoMints with Tic Tac Gentle Vibes,” which was launched via a fun online event last Saturday, March 19.

Tic Tac Gentle Vibes

The Tic Tac Gentle Vibes livestream event was hosted by Sarah Carlos and featured singer-actress Julie Anne San Jose, actor-director Fifth Solomon, and YouTuber Joselle Alandy.

“The real goal of the campaign is to help us connect with our loved ones, especially at this time of the pandemic. Nakakakilig naman kasi talaga when we receive unexpected gifts from our loved ones, or even words of affirmation that we’re doing great and we’re appreciated. Di ba, it’s one of the five love languages!” Sarah said.

The guests demonstrated how connecting with friends and loved ones can make life gentler and happier while playing games with each other. Julie, Fifth, and Joselle participated in the Summer Vibes Challenge with Tic Tac Gentle Vibes, where they were asked to guess items commonly associated with summer beach essentials such as buko juice, swimsuit, sunglasses, beach volleyball, and Tic Tac Fresh Mints.

In the “Guess the MoMints” game, the guests, together with host Sarah, guessed gentle messages from Tic Tac as one player mouths it out with his or her microphone off. The Tic Tac Gentle Messages such as “There’s always a positive side”, “You are my hero”, “The best moments are with you” and even the playful pun “You are always in my mint” prove that simple words of affirmation and love can mean the world to those we send it to.

“Natouch ako dun,” Fifth quipped.

“I think this campaign is really perfect kasi yun talaga yung kailangan natin ngayon, to basically just spend good vibes to everyone no matter how challenging yung mga pinagdadaanan natin,” Julie Anne said.

She added, “Marami tayong mga happenings na out of our control. But we do have control over how we see things and kung paano natin idedeal yung mga bagay na yun and how to take it possible.”

How to Join the Tic Tac Promo

You too can send personalized Gentle Vibes messages using the Tic Tac Gentle Messenger—and win amazing prizes from doing so!

Tic Tac is giving away four 3 days-2 nights all-inclusive trip for two to El Nido, Palawan, each worth 85,000 PHP (2 winners per 4-week period), as well as eight (1 weekly winner) Apple iPhone 13 units, and 320 (40 winners per week) 1000 PHP Shopee vouchers every week from March 1 to April 24, 2022.

To join, purchase Tic Tac Orange or Tic Tac Mint Flavored GV Packs. Visit Tictac.com and send gentle vibes through the Tic Tac Gentle Messenger, where you can compose #TTGV messages and create cute, personalized animation of Tic Tac mints.

Send your Gentle Vibes messages to your loved ones and friends. Complete your entry by typing in your personal details and the unique code that can be found in your Tic Tac GV Packs.

Post your Gentle Messenger messages on Facebook and Instagram with the hashtag #TTGV to make your loved ones’ day even more special.

Winners are announced at the end of each week through https://tictacmessage.net/ph/en/xp/promotion/winners.

Learn more about the #TTGC campaign by visiting Tic Tac’s Official Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/tictacpilipinas or its official website TicTac.com.

March 25, 2022
Shopping Guide: 8 Items to Give You a Good Night’s Sleep

After a long day, all you really need is a good night’s sleep! It improves the overall wellbeing of anyone — physically, emotionally, and mentally. And we all know how important that is these days. Whether you turn off the light and bid your phone goodbye for the night, or start counting sheep, there are ways to achieve a well-rested evening. You wouldn’t even need your trusty melatonin for this! Below, we list down products that will make you sleep faster, get a good night’s sleep, and wake up feeling you can conquer anything.

Weighted Blanket

Always feel snug and cozy when you get your much-needed rest at night. Weighted blankets are said to be an amazing tool if you experience insomnia due to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. This specific weighted blanket has a bamboo cover to keep you cool throughout the night.

Get it here.

Meditation App

There are a bunch of meditation apps out there so you have to look for the one that suits your lifestyle. If you experience a racing mind especially in the evening, giving meditation a try is the way to go!

Download Calm (iOS | Android).

Warm Eye Patch

You will wish you found out about this sooner. This warm eye patch is like a steam bath for the eyes and helps with releasing tension and soothing the mind. It has a comfortable 40°C steam heat that will relieve digital eye strain.

Get it here.

Essential Oils

Not only do essential oils smell great, but it also reduces stress, help you sleep, and actually treat some infections! These oils are extracted from plans and are great for medicinal and recreational use. There are a bunch of essential oils available so choosing the best one for you wouldn’t be too difficult.

Get it here.

Diffuser

If you finally got yourself a handful of essential oils, the next best thing to get is a trusty diffuser. You’ll immediately smell the calming benefits of your oils, and you’ll overall be relaxed. Whether you’re getting your afternoon nap or retiring for the night, you’ll have your much-needed sleep right away!

Get it here.

Comfy Sleepwear

When looking for the best sleepwear, choose from silk or cotton. They’re lightweight and breathable, will keep you comfy, and will not interrupt your sleep.

Get it here.

Blackout Curtains

If you get easily waken up by even a tiny bit of light, get your hands on some blackout curtains especially if you live beside tall and bright buildings.

Get it here.

Memory Foam Pillow

Invest in a good quality memory foam pillow and your spine will thank you later. Studies say that using an orthopedic pillow will help you sleep better by making sure there’s an optimal curve in your spine.

Get it here.

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[NOTE: Prices are subject to change without prior notice]

^{Our shopping guides and recommendations are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. We may earn a small commission from the product links if you decide to shop from them, at no cost to you. ClickTheCity does not accept money for editorial features.}

March 24, 2022
Docufilm ‘Backstage Pass: Life Behind the Curtains’ to Screen at the CCP

The Cultural Center of the Philippines in cooperation with Southern Lantern Studios and Daluyong Studios, presents a short feature documentary on the backstage work of the Center’s Theater Crew on March 30, 2022 at 3:00PM at the CCP Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (CCP Little Theater).

Billed as “Backstage Pass: Life Behind the Curtains”, the 30-minute feature documentary directed by award-winning indie filmmaker Joseph Mangat covers the back-of-house activities of the CCP Theater Crew in lights, fly, and stage areas. Featured crew members likewise share their unique backstage stories in the film.

Since the CCP raised its curtains on September 8, 1969, various local, regional, and international productions, events, activities in dance, music, theater, visual arts, film, television, radio, and literature were staged in its hallowed halls. People from all walks of life have set foot in this iconic structure to include Presidents, High Ranking Officials, and Royalties. Artists of local and international caliber have performed and have graced performances, events, launches, screenings, exhibits in the main performance spaces, exhibition spaces, and screening rooms.

The pandemic caused booked and scheduled performances from March 16, 2020 up to October 2021 to postpone, cancel or reschedule; bringing theater activities to a halt. It displaced a significant number of artists, theater workers/technicians, carpenters, painters, seamstresses and several other skilled craftsmen.

With the imposed dark theater lull extended indefinitely, the theater crew were re-assigned to an intensive maintenance program; with some, doing research and skills development, as well as design and fabrication of a few work implements.

The situation lent itself for capturing life happening behind the curtains in a short film documentary. The feature pays tribute to the unsung heroes who tirelessly work behind the curtains, people who create a seamless event spectacle, unseen by the audience, garbed in standard-issue black, weaving their way through huge sets and high voltage dimmers, as well as grids and catwalks in dizzying heights.

For more information, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) or follow the official CCP social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

March 24, 2022
Xiaomi 12 & Xiaomi 12 Pro Launches Here in PH

Xiaomi today announced the launch of the all-new flagship Xiaomi 12 Series for the Philippine market – the Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12.

Designed to empower users around the world with a cutting-edge videography studio and entertainment powerhouse, Xiaomi 12 Series delivers impressive advancements in Xiaomi’s AI algorithm, flagship processing power, and an all-round elevated experience.

Market Availability

Xiaomi 12 Pro 12+256GB will retail at PHP 48,999 and Xiaomi 12 8+256GB will available for PHP 39,999 as early as March 24.

Those who pre-order in Xiaomi’s official online and authorized retail stores from March 24 to April 1 can also score amazing deals. Xiaomi 12 Pro 12+256GB buyers will be getting a free Mi TV P1 43” while those who purchase a Xiaomi 12 8+256GB will receive a free Mi TV P1 32”. Freebies are subject to stock availability.

Also launched with the Xiaomi 12 Series are the new Xiaomi Watch S1 and Xiaomi Watch S1 Active, Xiaomi Buds 3 and 3T Pro, and the Xiaomi Handheld Vacuum G11, which will come with their own deals and freebies from March 24 to 25 on Shopee and March 27 to 28 on Lazada.

The Xiaomi Watch S1 will be available at an early bird price of PHP 9,999 from its SRP of PHP 10,999 and will come with a free Mi Body Composition Scale 2 worth PHP 1,499 while you can get the Xiaomi Watch S1 Active at a discounted price of PHP 7,499 and will come with a free Xiaomi Sports Fanny Pack.

The Xiaomi Buds 3T Pro will be selling for only PHP 5,999 from its original price of PHP 6,999, while the Xiaomi Buds 3 will also be available for a discounted price from PHP 4,999 to PHP 3,999. Both will also come with a free Xiaomi Sports Fanny Pack.

Lastly, the Xiaomi Handheld Vacuum G11 will also be on sale for only PHP 15,999 from its SRP of PHP 17,999.

Capture cinematic shots at any time

Xiaomi 12 Series enables users to record studio-quality shots no matter the scenario, be it challenging lighting conditions or moving objects. Both phones boast a pro-grade triple camera array for versatile shooting, starring a massive 50MP main wide angle camera, with 8K recording capabilities on both Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12.

Xiaomi 12 Pro stands out with its state-of-the-art triple 50MP array, which features a cutting-edge Sony IMX707 ultra-large main sensor. This sensor is capable of catching large amounts of light and empowers advanced imaging capabilities with faster focus speeds and increased color accuracy. Xiaomi 12 features a 13MP ultra-wide angle camera, along with a 5MP telemacro camera, for filming life from different perspectives.

Beyond impressive hardware, Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 also advance Xiaomi’s proprietary AI algorithms. These innovations make it easier than ever for users to record every moment the way they want to, even in low-light or moving subjects. Xiaomi ProFocus intelligently identifies and tracks objects, preventing blurring or out-of-focus shots of moving or veiled subjects. These advancements also include eye and face auto focus capabilities. Ultra Night Video uses Xiaomi’s proprietary algorithms to record video even under extreme low-light, meaning moody, atmospheric shots are clearer than ever.

Available on both devices, One-click AI Cinema offers numerous creative options for show-stopping video editing, such as Parallel World, Freeze Frame Video, and Magic Zoom modes.

Flagship processing, unprecedented performance and power-efficiency

Flagship experience requires flagship performance. Xiaomi 12 Series features advanced Qualcomm® SnapdragonTM mobile platforms. Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 boast a Snapdragon® 8 Gen 1 processor – Qualcomm’s most advanced mobile platform. Built on a 4nm process, this processor also boosts GPU graphic rendering capabilities by 30% and energy efficiency by 25% when compared to the previous generation1. Both devices come with UFS 3.1 exceptional loading and data transfer speeds, along with LPDDR5 RAM for memory speeds up to 6,400Mbps.

For optimal product experience, Xiaomi 12 Series packs high-performing cooling systems, bolstered by a super-large vapor chamber and multiple layers of graphite to offer a leading-cooling capability.

All-around elevated entertainment experiences

Xiaomi 12 Series not only lets users capture every moment in exquisite detail, but also allows them to relive those moments in astonishing detail via an exceptional entertainment experience.

All devices offer vivid viewing on an AMOLED Dot Display rated A+ by DisplayMate, and with TrueColor support. For added peace of mind, the display features scratch-resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®, and supports Dolby Vision®, industry’s leading imaging technology that brings your content to life with vibrant color and details. Xiaomi 12 Series also supports HDR 10+. Xiaomi 12 Pro is SGS Eye Care Display Certified, showing care for users’ long-term visual health during marathon sessions.

Meanwhile, Xiaomi 12 Pro redefines flagship display with incredibly smooth viewing, scrolling, swiping, and sliding. The device’s highly power-efficient 6.73-inch WQHD+ display leverages AdaptiveSync Pro to intelligently adjust dynamic LTPO display between 1Hz and 120Hz based on content.

Xiaomi 12 delivers Xiaomi’s most colorful smartphone display to date, with more than 68 billion colors on 6.28-inch full-HD+ displays. Both feature 120Hz AdaptiveSync, for an impressively high-definition, vibrant, and flicker-free display that conveys every detail.

No cinematic experience is truly complete without pro-grade audio. Xiaomi 12 Series features SOUND BY Harmon Kardon, and creates an immersive audio experience powered by Dolby Atmos®, delivering spatial sound with rich detail, clarity, and realism across all your favorite entertainment. Xiaomi 12 Pro’s quad speakers – in the form of two tweeters and two woofers – deliver clear details and cover an astounding range of sound, while Xiaomi 12 delivers balanced stereo sound ideal for immersive gaming or video.

To optimize core user experience further, Xiaomi 12 Series incorporates MIUI 13, released globally earlier this year. The update includes faster storage, higher background process efficiency, smarter processing, and longer battery life. New features in the upgraded experience include Xiaomi’s proprietary Liquid Storage, Atomized Memory, Focused Algorithms, and Smart Balance.

Next-generation charging

To ensure Xiaomi 12 Series delivers pro-grade cinematic and entertainment experiences all day, the devices deliver next-level charging speed and safety.

Xiaomi 12 Pro features the incredibly fast 120W Xiaomi HyperCharge. With a 4,600mAh battery fully charged in just 18 minutes using Boost mode, Xiaomi 12 Pro delivers next-generation charging capabilities that keep up with user demands2.

Xiaomi 12 fits 4,500mAh batteries into compact body designs. Both devices support 67W wired turbo charging for speedy power-up. Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 also support 50W wireless charging and 10W reverse charging.

Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 both leverage Xiaomi AdaptiveCharge, a smart charging algorithm that learns and adapts to charging habits, which prolongs battery life.

Flagship capabilities packaged in an iconic design

These portable pocket-sized studios fit comfortably in the palm of your hand thanks to Xiaomi 12 Series’ iconic and user-centered design. Slimmer high-capacity batteries and a narrower ridge gap save precious space within the device. Xiaomi 12 Pro’s 6.73-inch display is encased in a sleek middle frame with sophisticated 3D curves. Meanwhile, Xiaomi 12’s 6.28-inch display measures just 69.9mm in width and is accented by smooth curves for a perfect fit3. Both devices are available in Gray, Purple, and Blue.

March 24, 2022
Lee Kang-Sheng Talks ‘Twisted Strings’, HBO Asia’s Anthology Set in Parallel Worlds

This March, HBO Asia is bringing us a new anthology thriller from Taiwan titled Twisted Strings which also delivers satirical takes on selfishness, greed, and ignorance.

Executive-produced by renowned filmmaker Hou Hsiao-Hsien, with the writing and direction of Huang Xi, Twisted Strings also has an award-winning cast ensemble which includes Lee Kang-sheng, Nikki Hsieh, Yo Yang, Yao Yi-Ti, and Sylvia Chang to name a few!

Check out the trailer and synopsis for the series below:

Twisted Strings follows a series of bizarre deaths happening in Taiping City. Against an eerie atmosphere, Wu Yuenu witnesses the deaths of people around her. A funeral, a missing body, a dangerous game, a kidnapping; real and unreal, these incidents are woven in Yuenu’s memories, converging in the mysterious Sailing Castle.

The name of the series is inspired by a popular Taiwanese nursery rhyme, which contains lyrics that tell the story of a monkey’s life over seven days. Each episode is loosely based on a line from the song.

Before the series premieres on WarnerMedia’s HBO and HBO GO this March 27, we got to virtually sit with its star Lee Kang-sheng for a roundtable interview where the actor talked about his experience working on this thriller. Below are the highlights of the interview:

Lee Kang-sheng on joining the project

Lee Kang-sheng has been known for starring in films such as Stray Dogs, Goodbye Dragon Inn, Rebels of the Neon God, and The Hole. “In the past, all of my movies are mostly very artsy,” said Kang-sheng. “In this TV series, hopefully, the Asian audience would get to see a different style of my performance. And because this series’ genre is a bit like dark humor, I think it would be very refreshing for the rest of the Asian audience.”

The movie star also shared how the script for the series convinced him to join the project. “When I received the full script from the director, I was immediately drawn to it. Typically, reading the full script would take up to two or three days, it only took me one day to finish reading the script.”

Photo: WarnerMedia & HBO Asia

For Kang-sheng, the series stands out because of its appealing storyline, and the fact that it gathers an exciting ensemble of stars. “I think this is very appealing to me because of the storyline. I think the storyline gets kind of complicated and there are many actors involved in this production, about twenty-plus actors. That attracted me and pulled me to want to be part of it. I think this is a very fresh and unique production, and I’m very excited to be part of it.”

The parallel worlds of Taiping City

The setting of Twisted Strings is in a fictional city called Taiping, where bizarre things occur. The show opens with a curious-looking marionette monkey walking around its streets and observing the different stories that unfold in the series. According to Kang-sheng, the viewers must look closely to fully understand the show’s unique storyline.

“You need to watch it in detail and be very focused as you’re watching it,” said the actor. “Because many actors play more than one role. Sometimes you might be confused about who is playing who, because the story is happening in a parallel universe. It’s all happening in the same town, so you need to focus and make sure that you don’t miss out on any episode or it will be very hard for you to follow the storyline.”

Photo: WarnerMedia & HBO Asia

Tipping toes around taboo themes

With the series revolving around Chinese traditional funeral customs, Kang-sheng also shared that the cast had to be careful about the taboos surrounding such a topic.

“Before [shooting], we would brief about the code of conduct. How to conduct ourselves as we enter into all these different places. The actors were briefed by a religious consultant to [point out] what are the taboos. For example, we cannot make a lot of noises as we enter into the funeral setting. And then before and after we enter the scenes, we also need to cleanse our bodies. Even after we return home, the religious consultant will give us a [talisman] for us to burn to make sure that the evil spirits do not follow us back.” Kang-sheng explained.

“Therefore, all the actors at the scene, we are very respectful, we conduct ourselves properly, solemnly, and carefully following all the rules. Every day, as we are shooting the scenes, we are on the tips of our toes to make sure that we didn’t cross any taboo,” the actor added.

Photo: WarnerMedia & HBO Asia

Asked if there was anything creepy that actually took place during filming, he pointed out an instance when crew members of the production felt weak during their shoot.

“Personally, my day of birth in Chinese belief, I have a very positive charge– very Yang. My Yang is very strong, therefore, I don’t think I will encounter all these spiritual attacks. But I noticed that during the production, some crew members, they are not as strong as me. They are a bit weak or in Chinese interpretation, their Ying is higher. What I noticed is that the next day, the crew members did not come for work because they encountered a spiritual attack and they need to excuse themselves from work the next day,” shared the actor.

Why watch ‘Twisted Strings’?

For Lee Kang-sheng, watching a TV show should be relaxing and entertaining instead of getting too serious about things. He also cites two things that viewers can look out for when the series finally drops.

“As you watch this series, in one way you get to observe Taiwanese culture and how they conduct certain rituals. Another way you can enjoy this is how the director, being very professional and serious about the script, [has] a very unique way of handling this kind of topic. It’s supposed to be a thriller mystery because the show is really out of the ordinary, out of the box, and there’s a lot of room for imagination. So if you watch this, I would just advice you to relax, chill, and get entertained instead of perceiving it too seriously,” explained the actor.

Photo: WarnerMedia & HBO Asia

Twisted Strings premieres with its first two episodes this March 27. You can watch the anthology series on TV via HBO, or via online streaming on HBO GO. Subscribe to www.hbogoasia.ph or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store on your device for as low as P99.70 per month.

March 24, 2022
The Fifth at Rockwell Events Hall Re-Opens, Welcoming Celebrations Anew

The Fifth at Rockwell excitedly opens its doors once again to celebrate momentous occasions in its spacious halls, after much anticipation. Rockwell’s premier events hall is situated on the fifth floor of Power Plant Mall—right at the heart of Rockwell Center—and exudes the brand’s signature of elegance and exclusivity, providing the ideal venue to hold weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries, company functions, bazaars, and the like.

For its reopening, The Fifth is offering welcome rates for bookings made until April 30, 2022 and bookings within this promo period are valid until 2023. It has likewise partnered with Aruga Apartments to offer soon-to-be wed couples an exclusive accommodation offer.

Assured of safety and comfort within its space, The Fifth at Rockwell is 1,380sqm large and can comfortably accommodate approximately 500 guests in its main hall for a banquet set-up. It features the largest indoor panoramic LED screen in Southeast Asia, creating stunning visuals that add to the ambience and is complemented by an in-house lights and sounds system. With an exceptional pool of accredited caterers, the venue also includes a fully-equipped kitchen that provides convenient preparation for a large number of guests. The Fifth also has two VIP rooms and a Secretariat Room for celebrants to prepare in prior to their event.

For any occasion or cause for celebration, Rockwell’s sophisticated events space is versatile enough to accommodate one’s needs. As The Fifth at Rockwell once again welcomes guests back to its halls, and is ready to bring life to the picture-perfect moments one envisions.

Please visit The Fifth at Rockwell’s website for more information. To inquire, please call 0917 55-FIFTH or e-mail reginav@rockwell.com.ph.

March 24, 2022
Jericho Shares Excitement on His Dream Internatioal Project ‘SellBlock’

Kapamilya star Jericho Rosales couldn’t hide his excitement to begin working on his challenging role in “Sellblock,” the international prison action series of ABS-CBN International Production and Co-Production division, BlackOps Studios Asia, Psyops8, Story Arch Pictures, and Agog Film Productions, which he will headline.

According to Jericho, “Sellblock” was presented to him three years ago and he immediately loved the project.

“It’s always very exciting to do new things, especially groundbreaking projects and I felt that ‘Sellblock’ is one of those. It was presented to me at the time when I was looking for projects with more grit, projects that would push me, motivate me to try out new things, out of the box stuff, even character roles.”

“Sellblock” will serve as Jericho’s Kapamilya comeback after his 2018 drama series “Halik,” making the actor go into full research and training mode for his role with a New York-based acting coach.

“Working on this kind of project would push me to prepare in ways that I haven’t done before so I kind of love that fresh experience. There’s a little nervousness on my part and when I get nervous about something it means that it’s a good thing,” he explained.

Jericho also said that it has always been his dream to ‘work with the best in the world’ that’s why he didn’t let “Sellblock” slip away.

“My dream has always been to work with the best in the world. The best actors, best directors, best people in production, best scripts, the best locations. Who doesn’t want that, right? When an opportunity like this comes, you don’t sleep on it. You respond right away. When it was presented to me, I really liked it. Unfortunately, COVID-19 happened, but I’m really glad that ‘Sellblock’ is back. And I hope this opportunity will open new doors in the international scene, not just for me, but for all the great Filipino talent behind this project.”

It was announced earlier this week that Jericho will be joined by acclaimed actors Tirso Cruz III, Cherry Pie Picache, Ronnie Lazaro, Rosanna Roces, Mon Confiado, RK Bagatsing, and Pepe Herrera that pushed him to do his best for the project. Adding to his motivation are the support of the fans for “Sellblock” that he read online.

The Kapamilya star is also thrilled with ABS-CBN’s push to produce more international content for global audiences.

He remarked, “I’m excited that ABS-CBN is focusing on international projects and bringing talents, helping them get discovered and be seen not just in the Philippines, but all over the world.”

“Sellblock” was announced on Variety during this year’s Hong Kong Filmart.

The country’s leading content provider, ABS-CBN continues to forge new partnerships to promote Filipino stories and talent all over the world. Entertainment website Deadline revealed recently that ABS-CBN is also collaborating with Filipino-American actor Reggie Lee and Filipino-American film producer Jeremiah Abraham for “Concepcion,” a crime drama about a Filipino family’s rule in a Los Angeles town.

Earlier this year, ABS-CBN announced the all-star cast of “Cattleya Killer,” a thriller series produced for global audiences that will be shown later in 2022. It is also behind “Almost Paradise,” the first American TV series filmed entirely in the Philippines, which it co-produced with Hollywood’s Electric Entertainment. For updates, follow @abscbninternationalprod on Facebook and Instagram.

For other news, follow @ABSCBNPR on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tiktok or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

March 24, 2022
‘Morbius’ Expands Sony’s Universe of Marvel Characters

One of the most compelling and conflicted characters in Sony Pictures Universe of Marvel Characters comes to the big screen in the action-thriller Morbius as Oscar® winner Jared Leto transforms into the enigmatic antihero Michael Morbius.

Watch Morbius’ Universe Vignette below:

Dangerously ill with a rare blood disorder and determined to save others suffering his same fate, Dr. Morbius attempts a desperate gamble. While at first it seems to be a radical success, a darkness inside him is unleashed. Will good override evil – or will Morbius succumb to his mysterious new urges?

“Morbius is searching for goodness – the cure for a disease. He’s going to find it, disregarding the cost on himself or on society,” says director Daniel Espinosa. “And in his search for goodness, he transforms into something he detests. He has to accept the ugliness he has within him, and that there’s something beautiful about it. It will be his strength, what makes him unique.”

Dr. Michael Morbius (Jared Leto) in Columbia Pictures’ MORBIUS.
Photo: Columbia Pictures

Morbius’s increasingly desperate research leads him to combine human DNA with that of the vampire bat – the only mammal that survives solely on blood – which has evolved to develop anticoagulants… a genetic mutation that Morbius is convinced will cure him and others with his disease. Not only does the treatment cure him, but gives him superhuman strength, the agility of an Olympic athlete, even the echolocation powers of the bat – to “see” objects in space by harnessing the sounds around him. But the cure also transforms Morbius into a (literally) bloodthirsty monster – a hideous creature with cravings that he is only somewhat able to control.

Morbius (Jared Leto) in Columbia Pictures’ MORBIUS.
Photo: Columbia Pictures

According to Espinosa, it’s the character’s inner humanity, his duality between virtuous man and brutal creature, that makes him so compelling. “Michael Morbius is one of the most altruistic characters of the Marvel Universe,” he says. “He’s one of the few that really believes in good. This good man has a horrible disease, and in his trials to save himself and the people that he cares for, he turns into a monster.”

Photo: Columbia Pictures

As a man who has spent countless hours reading and thinking about comic books, Espinosa says that it isn’t so surprising that Morbius’s duality has earned him a following. “Most great heroes are antiheroes,” he says. “Most of us are resistant to accept that we are the chosen one, and Morbius is the same. The most interesting characters in the Marvel universe have always been those that have had one foot on each side: Magneto, Rogue, Wolverine, in his own way, Venom. All of these characters are the ones that are fundamentally the most fascinating for us as moviegoers and comic book readers.”

Columbia Pictures presents in association with MARVEL, an Avi Arad / Matt Tolmach production, Morbius. Starring Jared Leto, Matt Smith, Adria Arjona, Jared Harris, Al Madrigal, and Tyrese Gibson. Directed by Daniel Espinosa. Produced by Avi Arad, Matt Tolmach, and Lucas Foster. Screen Story and Screenplay by Matt Sazama & Burk Sharpless. Based on the MARVEL Comics.

Exclusively in cinemas across the Philippines on March 30, Morbius is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #Morbius

March 24, 2022
Here’s How Nue Conceal Covers Up Scars and Stretch Marks With a Brazilian Camouflage

There’s no denying that skin problems have been on the rise since the pandemic because of stress-related issues from maskne, allergies, to visible signs of aging. But another problem, pandemic or not, makes women lose sight of their confidence? Scars and stretch marks. While there are topical or laser treatments that help to lighten the condition, most often than not, these remedies don’t work for most people. This is where founder and professional permanent make-up artist Bianca Festejo thought of introducing an alternative that delivers an almost instant noticeable result: Camouflage tattoo.

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As the founder of the pioneer camouflage center in the country, Bianca’s goal is to provide an advanced and safe solution in hiding skin imperfections with a result client will love, “We have developed a reading device that identifies a person’s skin tone and is being reflected through our app. This initial step determines the color that will match a person’s skin tone perfectly and at the same time, ensure a natural-looking result,” shares Bianca. Another great news is that this procedure works from light stretch marks, light scars, to surgical scars and skin hypopigmentation, and has treated over 2,000 clients in her clinic since its inception.

But for Bianca, Nue Conceal’s unique treatment proved not just to banish insecurities, but it has been a dramatic solution for some of her client’s mental and emotional health problems. “We have women who have come to the clinic and shared that their skin dilemmas caused their social interactions, careers, intimacy, and relationships to go rock bottom.”

And for Bianca, aside from the satisfaction that she gets from her work, it’s truly the life-changing “Nue Conceal Experience” that gives her purpose and motivation. This Women’s Month, here are the top 3 stories that have inspired Bianca to take their business to the next level:

A YOUNG GRANDMA WHO NEVER WORE PANTS

Mila is a happily married 49-year-old grandma battered with insecurity. Pants were her go-to even at home since she was a teenager. “I’ve never experienced joining any beach outings as I fear relatives and friends will find out about my scar-infected legs.” But until recently, her grandkid asked why she always wears pants even at home, which made her feel devastated. “I’ve tried various treatments from creams, serums, and lasers to consulting the best dermatologists, but nothing worked. However, things suddenly changed when she turned to Nue Conceal to try the Brazilian Camouflage , “For the first time, I was able to join our family beach outing just right after my first session,” she happily notes.

FROM DEPRESSED TO 100% CONFIDENT

25-year-old Dana is a medical student with visible, large stretch marks on her arms and legs. “While I’m not being bullied for it anymore unlike before as a teenager, the pain and trauma I’ve gone through caused depression and insecurity growing up.” She also tells Bianca that it also prevented her from joining group class activities. However, discovering Nue Conceal stretch mark treatment gave her a glimpse of hope, as she saw a huge difference that she has never experienced before. “I was able to wear a sleeveless top for the first time and I couldn’t be happier!”

A NURSE WHO KEPT HER DREAMS ON HOLD

Ave is a licensed nurse who has been receiving numerous offers to work abroad, but always begs off because she was worried about her leg scars. “I’ve always thought that I’ll be laughed at when people see my scars.” Thankfully, the 33-year-old Davaoeña discovered Nue Conceal online and immediately booked a flight to Manila to give the treatment a try. “I’ve spent thousands of dollars looking for a remedy, including going to so many top dermatologists but nothing worked. With Nue Conceal scar revision, I could say that the investment was all worth it. I’m happy to report that I just submitted my application for a nursing job in the UK!”

Bianca points out that she didn’t expect that there are so many women out there who’ve been searching for an answer for their scars and stretch marks problems. She wanted to tell them that there was hope. “These life-changing story truly motivates us to share our craft with more women who might be also experiencing the same problems as our clients. It’s our mission to regain not just their confidence, but also their life,”

Currently present in 10 countries, Bianca has also set up an online training class for those who want to learn the art of camouflage concealer. “Most of our students not only have zero knowledge in tattoos but are also going through anxiety themselves because of their stretch marks and scars. It’s my vision not just to introduce the art behind this technique, but also make them understand the science behind it.” Thanks as well to Nue Conceal’s French-made organic ink, as it’s not only safe for the skin, its color remains nice and consistent even at long periods under the sun.

Nue Conceal is located at the Promenade Mall Greenhills, San Juan. To know more, follow Nue Conceal Facebook & Nue Conceal Instagram. Visit the Nue Conceal Website or contact +63 917 847 3531 for bookings and inquiries.

March 24, 2022