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CCP Pasinaya Returns with New Component and Venue Partners in 2026

Now on its 20th year, the CCP Pasinaya: The Open House Festival, the country’s flagship multi-arts festival organized by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), ushers in this year’s National Arts Month with new components and venue partners. Bannering the theme “Paglikha sa Kinabukasan,” the milestone 20th edition of CCP Pasinaya celebrates two decades of artistic collaboration, creativity, and public engagement.

Slated for February 7 and 8, 2026, the CCP Pasinaya expands to an additional regional venue in Roxas City, Capiz, adds Rizal Park Luneta as a new venue partner, Calle Wright as part of Paseo Museo and introduces a new component Paligsahan, which aims to broaden public participation and foster deeper appreciation of Philippine arts and culture.

“We are pleased to expand the festival to additional partner venues across Metro Manila and the regions, enabling wider public participation in artmaking and appreciation. As CCP Pasinaya marks its 20th edition, the festival continues to offer new experiences even for its long-standing audiences,” said CCP President Kaye C. Tinga.

Guided by the theme “Paglikha sa Kinabukasan,” this year’s CCP Pasinaya underscores the importance of engaging Filipinos—especially the youth—in shaping the future of the country’s creative landscape. By bringing the festival closer to communities nationwide, the CCP hopes to encourage broader participation and inspire future generations of artists and audiences to sustain and elevate Philippine arts and culture.

“Guided by this year’s theme, Paglikha sa Kinabukasan, CCP Pasinaya seeks to go beyond presenting art—it aims to foster a culture of active artmaking where Filipinos, especially the youth, are not just spectators but co-creators in our creative landscape. By bringing the festival closer to communities across the country, we hope to provide opportunities for meaningful engagement, spark curiosity, and nurture a generation of artists and audiences who will carry forward and reimagine the future of Philippine arts and culture,” shared CCP Artistic Director and Pasinaya Festival Director Dennis N. Marasigan.

On February 7, dive into a full day of creativity with Palihan, a workshop-all-you-can experience offering hands-on art exploration and learning. On February 8, enjoy Palabas, featuring performances of 169 participating groups, including the National Performing Arts Companies, professional performing arts groups, and individual artists, highlighting the breadth and diversity of Philippine arts on one stage.

Throughout both days, join the Paseo Museo hop-on, hop-off curatorial tours across 17 museums and galleries in Metro Manila. Select museums will also feature special performances and workshops, giving visitors an immersive and interactive art experience. Free shuttle service, provided in partnership with the Museum Foundation of the Philippines, makes it easy for participants to travel between venues. Paseo Museo also launches a walking tour of the CCP Complex led by the Heritage Collective.

Professional performing arts groups and artists participate in Palitan, a dedicated business-to-business platform designed to foster meaningful connections with Philippine embassies, arts programmers, and other key stakeholders. Through this initiative, participants gain opportunities to present their work, explore collaborations, and expand their reach both locally and internationally, strengthening the presence of Philippine arts on the global stage.

This year also marks the debut of Paligsahan, a dynamic new component of the festival featuring a wide range of exciting activities open to everyone. This new component includes the Paeksena (a cosplay competition), Paramihan (a TikTok video challenge), Paseo Museo Paunahan (a stamp rally), Pitik-Larawan (a photo contest), Sinag ng Pasinaya (a mobile 1v1 fighting game), and Vertical Shorts Competition (a short shorts film competition).

Enhancing the festive spirit of CCP Pasinaya is Pamilihan, a lively marketplace where festival goers can explore a diverse mix of food stalls, artisanal treats, and handcrafted goods, all while supporting local vendors and entrepreneurs.

Projected to attract over 50,000 attendees, CCP Pasinaya expands this year to multiple venues, including the Circuit Performing Arts Theater, Aliw Theater at the CCP Complex, Concert at the Park in Rizal Park Luneta in collaboration with the National Parks Development Committee, and the historic Metropolitan Theater in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

Longtime regional partners the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Arts in Iloilo City and Tagum City return to join the celebration, reaffirming their commitment to supporting the festival’s nationwide reach. Adding to this growing network is a new regional partner venue in Roxas City, Capiz, further expanding the CCP Pasinaya’s presence and making the arts more accessible to communities across the country.

Established in 2005, CCP Pasinaya was originally envisioned as a marketing platform to provide previews of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ upcoming productions and programs, as well as a glimpse into the performance seasons of its then-resident companies. Over time, it grew into the official kickoff event for the National Arts Month celebration.

Over the years, the festival has expanded into a dynamic hub for arts appreciation, education, and creative collaboration. It now showcases performing arts groups and artists from nearby cities and regions, whose generous participation reflects a shared commitment to nurturing and celebrating Philippine arts.CCP Pasinaya embraces a “workshop-all-you-can, watch-all-you-can, and pay-what-you-can” approach, providing audiences with flexible ways to participate, learn, and immerse themselves in the arts. Registration is available online through the official CCP Facebook page.

For details on the Paligsahan component, including participation mechanics, follow the CCP on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. To learn more about the Cultural Center of the Philippines and its programs, visit www.culturalcenter.gov.ph.

January 21, 2026
Jollibee shines spotlight on the craft behind iconic Chickenjoy

For many Filipinos, Chickenjoy is more than just fried chicken. It is a taste of home, a source of comfort, and a shared experience across generations.

Jollibee, the country’s no. 1 quick service restaurant, is now putting the spotlight on the meticulous craft behind its signature fried chicken with the launch of its new campaign, “Jollibee Chickenjoy: Masterfully Made Sarap.” The campaign highlights the care taken at every step, from marination and seasoning to breading and frying, to deliver the crispiness, juiciness, and flavor that customers have come to expect.

“Chickenjoy is more than fried chicken to Filipinos. It’s part of family memories, celebrations, and everyday moments of joy,” said Dorothy Dee-Ching, Jollibee Philippines’ vice president for marketing. “We take pride in every step of its preparation because we know how much it means to our customers. Every piece carries that same flavor and happiness that people have loved for generations.”

Bringing this connection to life on screen, actress Anne Curtis, a long-time Jollibee ambassador, stars in the campaign. Her participation highlights the brand’s enduring bond with its audience and shows how Chickenjoy continues to be part of Filipinos’ many joyful moments.

Adding to its legacy, Chickenjoy was officially recognized as a Well-Known Mark by the Philippine Intellectual Property Office in 2025, affirming its strong reputation, widespread recognition, and enhanced legal protection both locally and internationally.

Beyond flavor, Chickenjoy has become a cultural touchstone. It symbolizes Filipino culinary identity and appears in celebrations, office lunches, and family dinners. The campaign not only showcases the care behind each piece but also highlights the emotional and cultural significance of this iconic fried chicken.

Watch the new ad here: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1609382240233746

Available nationwide via dine-in, takeout, drive-thru, and delivery, Chickenjoy continues to serve millions of Filipinos who have grown up and continue to grow with it.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises!

January 21, 2026
MOVIE REVIEW: Rental Family

It’s a strange feeling to be watching a film and be so absolutely charmed by it and then as the movie is moving towards its third act, your feelings take a full 180-degree turn and it undermines all the great things you felt in the film’s first two acts. That sums up my experience watching Hikari’s Rental Family.

It is an exquisitely crafted film – gorgeous direction, cinematography, performances, and even music by Jónsi (of Sigur Rós) and Alex Somers. All the elements work so wonderfully together, and the tone is so well balanced between comedy and a generous heaping of sadness. My issue stems in how the film treats its subject matter and how it shifts into favouring a Western framework while being situated in an Asian country.

Brendan Fraser in RENTAL FAMILY. Photo by James Lisle/Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

The issue here is one of political and cultural representation.

‘Rental Family’ is the story of Philip Vanderploeg (Brendan Fraser), an American actor living and working in Japan. Philip has done a Japanese commercial seven years ago and has stayed on ever since doing odd jobs playing a “token white guy” in ads and TV spots. He’s presented as a person who is isolated and alone.

Brendan Fraser in RENTAL FAMILY. Photo by James Lisle/Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Philip then comes across a company that reenacts realistic fantasies – actors portraying a client’s family, boss, or even the guest at a wake, and other such scenarios – for a decent fee. He is hired to play a token white man, but often with a deeper connection to the client. He gets hired by a woman to play a journalist who is interviewing her father, who is an aging actor played by Akiro Emoto. He’s also hired to be buddies with a Japanese guy who likes to play video games. In another case, a young woman asks him to pose as her Canadian groom so she can give her parents the wedding they want for her and finally be free.

Misato Morita and Brendan Fraser in RENTAL FAMILY. Photo by James Lisle/Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Naturally, Philip has a hard time with this. His boss, Shinji (Takehiro Hira), along with co-workers Aiko (Mari Yamamoto) and Kota (Kimura Bun), try to explain to him that what they are doing is capturing emotions and feelings; it isn’t exactly a lie, and that it’s something he may never fully understand as an American.

Brendan Fraser and Shannon Gorman in RENTAL FAMILY. Photo by James Lisle/Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

The most precarious of roles Philip has to play is that of the estranged father of a young half-Japanese girl, Mia (Shannon Mahina Gorman). Her mother, Hitomi (Shino Shinozaki), is applying at a prestigious school for Mia, and having both parents involved would help the application process a lot. But Hitomi doesn’t want Mia to know that Philip is an actor, so he has to fully commit to the role and truly pretend.

Shannon Gorman and Brendan Fraser in RENTAL FAMILY. Photo by James Lisle/Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

At a certain point, Philip begins to find his way, forging real connections with his regular clients, but most especially with Mia, who becomes a way for him to reconnect with his own estranged father. Things get complicated midway through, as Philip cannot help but invest himself fully in these relationships and pushes the boundaries of what is permissible and what is not in his job.

Brendan Fraser and Akira Emoto in RENTAL FAMILY. Photo by James Lisle/Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Hikari’s style is visually stunning and manages to visually capture the interconnectedness of Asian societies; and somehow isolate Philip from all of this, being an outsider. Fraser is magnificent, really embodying the everyman and then showing us how he transforms for every client. He is a very solid actor, anchoring the piece around his character. He is never flashy or overdoing it. Everything is just right. All the Japanese actors are equally fantastic, with Akira Emoto and Mari Yamamoto standing out in their roles.

Mari Yamamoto and Brendan Fraser in RENTAL FAMILY. Photo by James Lisle/Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Throughout the film, though, we see the importance and value of human connection; how these feelings hold weight and are even worth being paid for. It reminds me of the social media reels about certain Asian countries offering “rent-a-boyfriend for a day” services (for non-sexual dates and companionship). Apparently, it really is a thing. And at the start the film shows how important the social fabric is to Asian culture.

Takehiro Hira, Mari Yamamoto, and Bun Kimura in RENTAL FAMILY. Photo by James Lisle/Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

But halfway through the film, as Philip begins to get himself completely involved, he questions the company and what they are doing and goes beyond what is allowed by their rules of engagement. At this point, the film takes on an almost white saviour tone, suggesting that it is Philip who puts all these Japanese characters “in their place,” and because that things change because of him. This bothered me so much. I was absolutely charmed by this movie, by the direction, the performances, the cinematography, and the music, but when the white saviour moment happens, my experience with the film changed completely.

Brendan Fraser in RENTAL FAMILY. Photo by James Lisle/Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Instead of a story about a white man learning something new while living in Asia, it’s the Asian characters who learn something from the white man and this really didn’t sit well with me.

By all means, the film is well made, but I immediately understood that this movie was made for Western audiences. It was not fair in how it structured the narrative to pass judgement on the Japanese characters and position the white man as the hero of this story. It’s so beautifully made but I felt it was not made for me. It’s a story that amplifies American superiority and comes across as inauthentic and untrue when you consider the real-world conditions that we live now.

My Rating: 2.5 Stars

Rental Family opens in theaters today! Don’t miss Brendan Fraser navigating complex roles, Hikari’s stunning visuals, and a story that charms, challenges, and provokes. Check showtimes near you and experience it on the big screen.

January 21, 2026
Korean Romantic Comedy Series ‘The Practical Guide To Love’ To Premiere on HBO Max on February 28

New Korean romantic comedy series, The Practical Guide to Love, starring Han Ji-min, Park Sung-hoon and Lee Ki-taek is set to make its streaming debut on Saturday, February 28 on HBO Max.The 12-episode TVING Original drama series portrays the struggle of finding love in this day and age, and presents a modern take on blind dating – following career-driven Lee Ui-young (played by Han Ji-min), in her pursuit to find love efficiently. On a quest to find her other half, she finds herself caught in an unexpected love triangle and drawn to two very different individuals.

Photo Credit: TVING | HBO Max

Starring Han Ji-min (Heavenly Ever After, Our Blues, Love Scout), Park Sung-hoon (Squid Game, The Glory) and Lee Ki-taek (Bon Appetit, My Happy Ending), The Practical Guide to Love is directed by Lee Jae-hun (Run On, Good Manager), with Hwangbo Sang-mi as Executive Producer. The series is written by Lee Yi-jin and produced by SLL.

Stream as Ui-young discovers the true meaning of love on The Practical Guide to Love on HBO Max from February 28.

January 20, 2026
CEAP Brings Joy and Hope to Children Battling Cancer Through “REEL HOPE: CEAP’s Gift of Cinema”

The Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP) turned the magic of movies into a powerful act of kindness with its latest charitable initiative, “REEL HOPE: CEAP’s Gift of Cinema,” held at Gateway Cineplex, Araneta City.

This heartwarming initiative welcomed 21 brave children under the care of Kythe Foundation, Inc., along with their parents and guardians, for a day filled with joy, comfort, and unforgettable memories. The event featured a special screening of Zootopia 2, complete with snacks, creating a truly cinematic experience that lifted spirits and sparked laughter.

Following the screening, participants received Super Meals, Noche Buena Food Packs, and special gifts from TV5 celebrities, adding a personal touch that made the day even more memorable. For many families, the event offered a rare opportunity to share joy and togetherness in a safe, festive environment.

“REEL HOPE” reflects CEAP’s commitment to giving back and using cinema as a platform for good. CEAP believes that the true spirit of the holiday season lies in sharing hope and happiness with those who need it most.

“This event is more than just a movie screening—it’s a celebration of resilience and love,” said JAMES BARTOLOME, CEAP’s Vice-President for External Affairs. “These children remind us of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of compassion. We are honored to make this Christmas brighter for them. CEAP extends its gratitude to its members, sponsors, and partners who made this initiative possible. Together, we proved that when we unite for a cause, we can create moments that matter—moments that bring hope, laughter, and love beyond the big screen.”

About CEAP:
The Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP) is a non-profit organization representing the country’s leading cinema operators. CEAP advocates for the growth and sustainability of the Philippine cinema industry while promoting initiatives that use film as a medium for cultural enrichment, education, and social good.

January 20, 2026
Explore A Fresh Wellness Journey for Healthier Days Ahead with Phiten; Now In The Philippines
Phiten, Japan’s cutting-edge, innovative health and wellness brand, is excited to announce that its premium range of retail products are now available at three locations in the Philippines: Shangri-La Mall, Lucky Chinatown and Mitsukoshi Mall.

Founded in Kyoto, Japan, over 40 years ago by its President and Founder, Yoshihiro Hirata, Phiten now has around 150 locations in Japan and a presence in 30 countries, primarily across North and Central America, Europe, and Asia.

Their products leverage advanced technology to enhance one’s health and support body relaxation. Here are the reasons why Phiten is most-sought after by people the world over:
- Patented Aqua Titanium Technology: Experience the power of their signature Aqua Titanium technology, a breakthrough innovation that integrates metals such as titanium, gold, palladium, and platinum into everyday wearable products to support overall health and well-being. It reduces muscle and joint pain by improving blood flow and reducing bodily tension.
- Faster Recovery: Whether you’re an athlete or someone looking to recover after a long day, Phiten products are designed to shorten recovery times, helping you bounce back stronger.
- Stress Reduction & Enhanced Focus and Balance: Many users experienced improved mental clarity and balance, along with decreased stress, making it an ideal fit for busy individuals and those working in high-pressure environments.
Phiten products: Durability and Comfort

At Phiten retail stores, explore a wide selection of wellness solutions to suit every lifestyle, from everyday comfort to professional-grade athletic support. Their wearable and functional products are designed for comfort and long-lasting wear, whether you’re at work, in the gym, or at home.

The stores sell apparel, bracelets, necklaces, tapes, gel, socks, joint supports, and braces. These products are widely used by professional athletes to help them recover from fatigue, muscle strain, and stress. Unique offerings include the volleyball line, which features braces and supports for knees, joints, and other areas of the body. Their apparel line (shirts, jackets, shorts) is stylish and functional. Simple colors and logos help you stand out as you don Phiten’s specially designed fabric with integrated Aqua Metal technology.

With over four decades of expertise, Phiten is a trusted name in wellness, endorsed by professionals who recognize that the products have optimized their performance, reduced pain, and contributed to overall well-being.

Opening in the second half of the year is Phiten IP (Inner Power) Salon, the first outside Japan. It is a health and recovery center featuring cutting-edge equipment using Phiten technology, such as the Alpha O2 hyperbaric chamber, water massage bed, and Light Bathing Capsule.

Phiten is brought to the Philippines by Techno Holdings Corporation, the company behind Karada, Steltz International, HKR Equipment Corporation, The Turf Company, Miss Esthe, Stelton Dermascience, Express Relief, Finix Corporation, Phiten IP Salon, and Nora Salon/Nora Lab.

Experience firsthand the powerful benefits of Phiten products by visiting its stores at the THC Health & Beauty Hub (THBH): 6th level of Shangri-La Plaza Mall, East Wing, Ground floor, Lucky Chinatown, and Ground floor, Mitsukoshi Mall, BGC, Taguig City.

Follow Phiten on FB Phiten Philippines and IG @phitenphofficial.
January 20, 2026
From Classroom to Cinema: Student Nurse Competes at Sine Negrense for Third Year

Balancing hospital duty and film sets, a senior Nursing student from University of St. La Salle–Bacolod continues to leave a meaningful mark on the local film scene. Chelsea Tasic, a student nurse and emerging filmmaker, has officially competed at Sine Negrense: The Negros Island Film Festival for three consecutive years—an achievement that reflects both discipline and creative passion.

A Breakthrough Year in 2023

Tasic first entered Sine Negrense in 2023 with “Dalit sa Sala,” a social commentary produced by Dulaab Productions. The project stood out not only for its message but also for its ambitious execution, which involved a demanding two-day shoot aboard a moving bus.

Despite the logistical challenges, the film resonated strongly with viewers. “Dalit sa Sala” earned eight nominations, winning the People’s Choice Award and receiving a special citation for its compelling narrative, marking a confident and promising debut at the festival.

Creative Growth in 2024

Building on that momentum, Tasic was selected in 2024 as one of ten directors for the inaugural Bacolod Film Festival (BFF). Her short film “A Flower A Day” also competed in the Sine Negrense Open Category, signaling her expanding presence in Western Visayas cinema.

Set inside a worn-down café, the film tells the story of a young woman who visits daily, each time bringing a different flower—an act that quietly intrigues a local barista. The understated narrative allowed emotion and curiosity to bloom naturally.

“A Flower A Day” received eight nominations and won Best Musical Score at BFF 2024, further strengthening Tasic’s reputation as a filmmaker with a sensitive and thoughtful approach to storytelling.

Returning with “Isa ka Higayon” in 2025

In 2025, Tasic returned to Sine Negrense with “Isa ka Higayon,” competing in the Intercollegiate Category. Rooted deeply in Bacolod culture, the film explores themes of closure, grief, and the afterlife.

The story centers on Lola Sonia, a downtown Bacolod seamstress preparing for a chance to make peace with a loved one she lost. As her journey unfolds, uncertainty and longing begin to surface, raising a poignant question: when life finally offers closure, does it truly bring freedom—or a deeper yearning?

The film was recently screened at the Dinagyang edition of CineKasimanwa: The Western Visayas Film Festival at the FDCP Cinematheque Centre Iloilo, extending its reach beyond Negros and into a wider regional audience.

Rooted Stories, Genuine Experiences

For Tasic, filmmaking has always been more than a creative pursuit—it serves as a vessel for raw, genuine human experiences. Her journey began in senior high school at University of Negros Occidental–Recoletos, where she directed the award-winning short films “Piyesa” (2021) and “Litrato” (2022).

Today, she views her growing body of work as a reminder to reconnect with one’s roots and shine a light on the everyday realities of life in Negros. While pursuing a demanding degree in nursing, Tasic continues to tell stories that feel intimate, culturally grounded, and emotionally honest.

Celebrating Negrense Cinema

Sine Negrense, an annual celebration of local filmmaking, ran from December 3 to 6 at the FDCP Cinematheque Centre Negros, offering a platform for Negrense filmmakers to showcase their work. The festival’s awarding ceremony is tentatively scheduled to take place next month.

As Chelsea Tasic marks her third straight appearance at Sine Negrense, her journey stands as a hopeful and inspiring testament to what passion, perseverance, and local storytelling can achieve—on screen and beyond.

January 20, 2026
MOVIE REVIEW: The Housemaid

I knew nothing about The Housemaid before going in, aside from having seen bits of the trailer. I had no idea it was based on a popular book series by Freida McFadden, and I thought I had the whole movie pegged from the get-go. It didn’t help that Sydney Sweeney has received quite a lot of flak for her other activities outside of acting, so I was went in with very little expectations.

A sexy thriller about a housemaid entering a wealthy home filled with dark secrets. This is nothing new, really, but director Paul Feig and screenwriter Rebecca Sonnenshine have a lot of fun with the material and the premise, and a seriously arresting performance by Amanda Seyfried makes The Housemaid an enjoyable watch.

Amanda Seyfried as Nina Winchester in The Housemaid. Photo Credit: Daniel McFadden/Lionsgate

Sydney Sweeney plays Millie, a woman with a troubled past who takes a job as a stay-in housemaid for the very wealthy Winchester family. She meets Nina (Amanda Seyfried), who is all bubbly and cheerful and seems like a joy to work for. Once she gets the job, she meets Nina’s husband, Andrew (Brandon Sklenar), and their daughter CeCe (Indiana Elle).

Amanda Seyfried as Nina and Sydney Sweeney as Millie in The Housemaid. Photo Credit: Daniel McFadden/Lionsgate

Andrew is a mountain of a man; he’s handsome and charming while Cece is aloof and standoffish. Things soon turn sideways when Nina begins exhibiting sudden outbursts, blaming Millie for things she didn’t do or gaslighting her outright. Millie’s past creates the need to keep the job and, of course, Andrew comes to her rescue. We can all guess where this is going.

Brandon Sklenar as Andrew Winchester in The Housemaid. Photo Credit: Daniel McFadden/Lionsgate

And it does go there but then it also has more twists and turns. Some you already suspect, others not quite so. But Feig and Sonnenshine do a fantastic job of keeping the tension high, slowly building it up and raising the stakes more and more until all hell breaks loose.

Sydney Sweeney as Millie Calloway in The Housemaid. Photo Credit: Daniel McFadden/Lionsgate

Sweeney’s doe-eyed looks work well for her role as Millie. When Nina starts to break down Millie with each passing day, Sweeney really embodies Millie’s victimization. You can’t help but feel sorry for her, being trapped between a rock and a very hard place. Andrew stepping in to Millie’s defense adds even more tension rather than a feeling of safety because you know it will further amplify Nina’s erratic behaviour and trigger her psychotic episodes. The film is very good at keeping you on your toes, with a few well-placed jump scares thrown in to add to the fun.

While Sweeney and Sklenar bring in the chemistry, heat things up with some very intense sex scenes, and deliver solid performances that fit right in with the film’s tone, it is Seyfried who elevates The Housemaid into a real horrorfest. She plays Nina’s duality down to a tee; sweet and warm when she’s lucid, then downright unhinged and, completely uninhibited when she’s at the opposite pole. It’s a really fun performance that really makes the film.

Sydney Sweeney as Millie and Amanda Seyfried as Nina in The Housemaid. Photo Credit: Daniel McFadden/Lionsgate

What could have been just a run-of-the-mill sexy thriller takes a twist and a turn and ends up touching on some feminist issues that subtly finds its way into the film’s third act. Less than a film that tackles social class disparity – issues about rich and poor – but more about women, and some of the things they face on a daily basis. It wraps these discussions up in an entertaining thriller that keeps you on your toes and offers up some sexy imagery along with it.

It’s a refreshing change and a breath of fresh air. And I know the book series has two successful follow-ups and the film teases a sequel. But I hope they don’t do it. I feel that it ended just at the right note. Not every story needs a sequel. Sometimes, as with the story we just watched, in this case The Housemaid, serves as a catalyst for our own imagination, letting us do the rest of the work ourselves.

My Rating: 4 Stars

Sydney Sweeney pulls you in, Amanda Seyfried keeps you guessing. Catch The Housemaid on the big screen. Check showtimes near you and experience the tension for yourself.

January 17, 2026
Brendan Fraser Stars in “Rental Family,” Screening Exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas This January 21
An Exclusive Film Event That Celebrates Human Connection

Ayala Malls Cinemas proudly unveils Rental Family, a moving cross-cultural drama-comedy starring Academy Award® winner Brendan Fraser, as part of its exclusive 2026 film lineup. Known as the go-to destination for premium and thoughtfully curated cinematic experiences, Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to champion films that inspire, comfort, and spark meaningful conversations—only on the big screen.

All the way from Tokyo, Rental Family arrives exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas, offering local audiences a rare opportunity to experience a globally celebrated story about chosen families, belonging, and empathy—magnified through immersive sights and sounds.

A Story That Resonates Across Cultures

Rental Family has touched hearts worldwide with its poignant yet uplifting exploration of human connection. Set in modern-day Tokyo, the film follows an American actor, Philip Vandarpleog (Brendan Fraser), who finds himself at a crossroads until he accepts an unconventional job at a Japanese “rental family” agency—portraying stand-in roles for strangers seeking companionship.

As scripted moments turn unexpectedly real, Philip forms genuine bonds that blur the line between performance and authenticity. Along the way, he confronts loneliness, isolation, humor, and emotional complexity—rediscovering purpose and the quiet beauty of belonging.

Cinema That Builds Empathy and Understanding

Writer-director HIKARI (Miyazaki Mitsuyo), best known for the critically acclaimed Netflix series Beef, shares her vision:

“I believe that cinema can make the world a better place. It allows us to view others with empathy, creates space for conversation, and see parts of ourselves we did not know existed. If we embrace it, walls fade, and humanity comes through.”

This philosophy mirrors Ayala Malls’ commitment to creating welcoming spaces where stories resonate deeply, allowing audiences to feel seen, understood, and comforted.

Brendan Fraser echoes this sentiment, saying, “Family is really who we include, rather than who we’re assigned to.” It’s a powerful reminder that family can be found in presence, connection, and love.

Why Watch It at Ayala Malls Cinemas

Watching Rental Family at Ayala Malls Cinemas elevates the experience. Patrons can enjoy:
- High-quality visuals with sharper images that bring every emotion to life
- Immersive audio powered by Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos
- Plush seating with generous legroom for maximum comfort
- Delicious treats from The Movie Snackbar, including must-have popcorn, burgers, hotdog sandwiches, and refreshing beverages
More than just a movie destination, Ayala Malls Cinemas offers a premium space to bond with family, friends, and colleagues—sharing moments that matter.

Film Synopsis

Set in modern-day Tokyo, Rental Family follows an American actor (Brendan Fraser) struggling to find purpose until he lands an unusual gig at a Japanese “rental family” agency. Playing stand-in roles for strangers, he gradually forms authentic connections that challenge his understanding of performance, morality, and belonging. Through these encounters, he rediscovers meaning, empathy, and the warmth of human connection.

Experience It Exclusively on the Big Screen

Unravel the many roles Philip plays in Rental Family, exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas starting January 21, 2026. Book tickets online at www.sureseats.com

For the latest updates, follow Ayala Malls Cinemas on Facebook and Instagram.
January 16, 2026
Ghostface Comes Home: “Scream 7” Unveils New Poster and Chilling Teaser, Showing in Cinemas February 25
Every phone call echoes louder. Every shadow feels closer.

The nightmare that redefined horror is back.

Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group have officially released the brand-new poster and teaser video for Scream 7, setting the stage for the franchise’s most personal chapter yet. Opening only in cinemas on February 25, 2026, the film marks a powerful homecoming as Kevin Williamson, creator of Scream, returns to direct the latest installment.

A Teaser That Sends Shivers

The call no one wants to answer rings once more.

Watch the Teaser Video here:

Short, sharp, and deeply unsettling, the teaser delivers classic Scream tension with a modern edge. Familiar sounds trigger old fears, while haunting silences hint that Ghostface is closer than ever—and this time, the stakes feel devastatingly real.

A Poster That Signals a Reckoning

The newly unveiled poster places Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) front and center, surrounded by a compelling mix of returning characters and new faces. With Ghostface lurking in the background, the imagery speaks volumes: the past isn’t done, and survival comes at a cost.

Official Synopsis

When a new Ghostface killer terrorizes the quiet town where Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) has built a new life, her worst fears resurface as her daughter (Isabel May) becomes the next target. Forced to confront her darkest memories, Sidney fights to protect her family and stop the violence once and for all.

Fear becomes personal. Hope becomes essential.

About Scream 7
- Directed by: Kevin Williamson
- Screenplay by: Kevin Williamson and Guy Busick
- Story by: James Vanderbilt & Guy Busick
- Produced by: William Sherak, James Vanderbilt, Paul Neinstein
- Based on Characters Created by: Kevin Williamson
Cast: Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, Isabel May, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Mason Gooding, Anna Camp, Joel McHale, Mckenna Grace, Michelle Randolph, Jimmy Tatro, Asa Germann, Celeste O’Connor, Sam Rechner, Ethan Embry, Tim Simons, and Mark Consuelos.

A Return That Feels Earned

With its original creator guiding the story, Scream 7 blends emotional depth with relentless suspense. It’s a confident continuation that respects the franchise’s legacy while pushing the story into darker, more intimate territory. Familiar scares return, but the heart of the film lies in family, resilience, and the cost of never truly escaping fear.

Scream 7 opens only in cinemas on February 25, 2026.

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_{Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures”}
January 16, 2026