Building on over two decades of nurturing independent Filipino cinema, the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Cinemalaya Foundation Inc. open the screens for submission to the Short Film Category of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival 2026.
The deadline for submissions is on or before 6pm of February 27, 2026.
The country’s biggest independent film competition is open to all Filipino filmmakers. Interested participants may submit a maximum of three (3) entries but only one (1) entry per proponent may be considered as a finalist.
Submitted entries must have been produced from May 16, 2025 to February 27, 2026. Short film entries that participated in other local and international festivals and competitions are qualified to join Cinemalaya.
Entries may be submitted ONLINE or OFFLINE. For online application, submit all requirements through: https://bit.ly/CM2026_ShortFilm_EntryForm. Requirements include a duly completed entry form, synopsis in English, a brief resume with 2×2 photo/s of the filmmaker/s, and the final work in MP4 format, with violator/watermark (for screening purposes only) and properly labeled with title, production company, address and contact numbers, production date, director’s name, and running time (which should not exceed 20 minutes including credits).
For OFFLINE submission, send entries to the Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division office, located at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Annex Building, Vicente Sotto St. corner Magdalena Jalandoni St., Pasay City.
For OFFLINE submission, film entry must be submitted on a thumb drive (USB), with the entry form, synopsis, and filmmaker’s profile. All must be submitted in a long brown envelope properly labeled with the proponent’s name, title of the film, and contact details.
The Cinemalaya Selection Committee will shortlist 10 film finalists which will be screened at the 2026 Cinemalaya Film Festival on August 6 to 18, and will have the chance to compete for the coveted Balanghai trophies.
Since 2005, Cinemalaya has been committed to the development and promotion of Philippine independent film. At its core, it provides an avenue for the production of cinematic works of Filipino independent filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity. With its call for submissions for the 2026 short film competition, Cinemalaya continues to invigorate the Philippine film industry by developing a new breed of Filipino filmmakers.
For full mechanics, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates.
Prime Video has officially revealed the pulse-pounding trailer and striking key art for Season Two of Cross, the breakout crime thriller inspired by the iconic characters created by James Patterson. Produced by Amazon MGM Studios and Paramount Television Studios, the new season premieres February 11, 2026, streaming exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.
The season opens strong with the first three episodes, followed by weekly releases, building suspense all the way to the gripping season finale on March 18, 2026. And yes—things are about to get far more dangerous.
A Breakout Hit Returns—Bigger, Darker, and Bolder
Set against the tense backdrop of Washington, D.C., Cross is created by executive producer and showrunner Ben Watkins, who also returns in a recurring role this season. The series follows Alex Cross (portrayed with intensity by Aldis Hodge), a brilliant homicide detective and forensic psychologist gifted with a chilling ability to think like a killer.
After pulling in over 40 million viewers globally within its first 20 days, Season One cemented Cross as one of Prime Video’s most talked-about crime thrillers. Now, Season Two raises the stakes—emotionally, psychologically, and lethally.
Season Two: Power, Paranoia, and a Deadly Countdown
This time, the danger comes wrapped in wealth and influence. Lance Durand (played by Matthew Lillard), a powerful billionaire business titan, seeks FBI protection after receiving a chilling death threat—one disturbingly connected to the murder of a fellow billionaire playboy.
As the clock ticks, Detective Alex Cross teams up once again with FBI Agent Kayla Craig (Alona Tal) in a high-risk joint mission to protect Durand and unmask a killer who leaves behind grotesque, calculated clues. Meanwhile, John Sampson (Isaiah Mustafa), Cross’ trusted partner and lifelong friend, stumbles upon an unexpected connection that could change everything.
With every revelation, the danger sharpens—and no one is truly safe.
Disney+ has officially unveiled the trailer for FX’s original drama series The Beauty, setting the stage for a stylish yet chilling global thriller from executive producer Ryan Murphy. The series premieres Thursday, January 22, exclusively on Disney+, with the first three episodes dropping on launch day.
The 11-episode debut season will continue with weekly Thursday releases, culminating in a heightened finale with two episodes airing in each of the final two weeks—a release schedule designed to keep tension running high.
Glamour Meets a Gruesome Mystery
In The Beauty, the glamorous world of high fashion hides a deadly secret. When international supermodels begin dying under brutal and unexplained circumstances, the case draws the attention of the FBI. Agents Cooper Madsen (Evan Peters) and Jordan Bennett (Rebecca Hall) are dispatched to Paris, only to uncover a conspiracy far darker than anyone imagined.
Their investigation reveals a sexually transmitted virus capable of transforming ordinary people into icons of physical perfection. The transformation, however, comes with horrifying consequences that ripple across borders and industries alike.
A Miracle Drug With Sinister Intentions
At the heart of the mystery is “The Corporation,” a powerful tech empire led by enigmatic billionaire Ashton Kutcher. His company has secretly engineered the drug known as “The Beauty,” a so-called miracle that fuels obsession, desire, and ultimately devastation. Protecting his trillion-dollar creation at all costs, he deploys his ruthless enforcer, “The Assassin” (Anthony Ramos), leaving a trail of fear in his wake.
As the epidemic spreads from Paris to Venice, Rome, and New York, a lost outsider named Jeremy (Jeremy Pope) becomes entangled in the chaos—searching for purpose as humanity edges closer to irreversible change.
The Beauty poses a haunting question that lingers long after each episode:
Created and written by Ryan Murphy and Matthew Hodgson, The Beauty is based on the acclaimed comic book series by Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley, with Haun serving as a consultant. The show is executive produced by Murphy, Hodgson, Peters, Ramos, Pope, and an extensive team of seasoned collaborators, and is produced by 20th Television.
Viewer Controls and Streaming Assurance
While The Beauty explores mature and provocative themes, Disney+ continues to offer robust parental control features. Subscribers can manage content access through PIN-protected profiles, customize viewing restrictions, and utilize Junior Mode, ensuring a safe and confident streaming environment for every household.
Science fiction turns disturbingly familiar in Mercy, a high-stakes action thriller from acclaimed filmmaker Timur Bekmambetov, the visionary director behind Unfriended, Searching, Missing, and Profile. Known for redefining modern storytelling through his signature Screenlife format, Bekmambetov once again stretches cinematic boundaries—this time pairing innovative visuals with a grounded, emotionally charged story that feels uncomfortably close to reality.
Set in the year 2029, Mercy presents a world where technology no longer supports justice—it controls it.
A Man on Trial in a Digital Courtroom
The story follows Detective Chris Raven (Chris Pratt, Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers: Endgame), who finds himself accused of murdering his wife, Nicole (Annabelle Wallis, Peaky Blinders). With the justice system fully automated, Raven’s fate rests in the hands of an artificial intelligence judge—an invention he once proudly defended.
That AI is Judge Maddox, portrayed with icy precision by Rebecca Ferguson (Dune, Mission: Impossible franchise). With no jury and no second chances, Raven must prove his innocence directly to Maddox. Failure means immediate execution.
“Mercy is a very intense, thrilling mystery, a new approach to the Screenlife language with a very entertaining, serious, impactful subject,” says Bekmambetov. “I loved this story not just as a Screenlife movie, but as a traditional movie. It involves how we behave and interact with technology.”
Why the Story Resonated with the Cast
Chris Pratt admits he was instantly captivated by the screenplay and Bekmambetov’s storytelling style.
I thought it was an inventive mystery story unlike anything I’d read before, which is saying a lot because I read everything! But this really caught my attention,” Pratt says. “MERCY is a ‘multi-genre’ film — it’s a courtroom drama, a thriller, a mystery, and an action film,” Pratt adds. “And it utilizes Screenlife, a genre curated by Timur. MERCY really takes all of that to the next level.”
For Rebecca Ferguson, the film raises urgent questions about society’s growing dependence on artificial intelligence.
“Mercy highlights the shortcomings in a world where Artificial Intelligence is growing but is still very limited when it comes to actually revealing the truth,” she says. “The problem is that we expect accuracy, and more and more we need to question what the online world is telling us.” Ferguson wishes that it imparts insight onto audiences. “I hope that people do question AI, and humans’ relationship to AI,” says Ferguson. “Artificial Intelligence is a fantastic tool, but it should always be just that — a tool to aid humans, not an alternative to humans. This film highlights, in a narrative sense, some of the ways that relying on AI could go very wrong.”
Watch the Official Trailer here:
A Familiar Future with Alarming Consequences
Producer Robert Amidon notes that Mercy continues Bekmambetov’s tradition of stories rooted in realism, despite their futuristic settings.
“The concept in Mercy aligned with his previous films Missing, Searching, and Profile. And like those, this story that was set in 2029 was grounded in reality while going into different genres.”
With its sleek digital presentation, gripping performances, and morally charged premise, Mercy delivers more than adrenaline—it challenges audiences to question how much control technology should have over human lives.
Coming to Philippine Cinemas
Mercy opens in Philippine theaters on January 28, 2026, screening in IMAX and 3D. The film is distributed locally by Columbia Pictures, the Philippine office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.
Join the conversation online using #MercyMovie and follow @columbiapicph for updates.
Imagine gaining instant access to over 200 of today’s most popular PC games, whether it’s the most-awaited AAA titles or highly regarded indie projects. It’s easily worth tens of thousands of pesos, but it can now be unlocked with no additional cost for one full year. This is the game-changing value that PLDT Home Life is bringing to every Filipino family of gamers with the IGV Game Pass, which is now free with PLDT Home Fiber Plans 1699 and above.
Forget the hassle and expense of buying games one by one, and that all-too-familiar hassle and pain of dropping at least P2,000 on a new PC game. Through the IGV Game Pass, you as a subscriber can now experience hundreds of games on Steam without spending more, turning home internet into the ultimate source of family fun and entertainment.
More games, more value, zero worries
The new offering is designed to deliver benefits that go far beyond just saving money: it transforms your PLDT Home Fiber Plan and your gaming PCs into a non-stop entertainment hub.
With over 200 PC games spanning multiple genres and playstyles, everyone in the family will find something they love. From kids playing the latest online multiplayer titles with their friends to parents playing classic masterpieces from their younger years, unli home entertainment is guaranteed.
Access some of the most popular online games among Filipino gamers right now, such as NBA 2K25, Counter-Strike 2, and PUBG: Battlegrounds, as well as some of the most highly acclaimed AAA titles from the past few years, which include Elden Ring, Black Myth: Wukong, and Cyberpunk 2077.
Discover a new competitive passion or a co-op challenge for your family to conquer together, all for a cost that doesn’t break the budget the way games typically do.
If your gaming preference is something out of the mainstream, you’re also in luck as the IGV Game Pass is constantly updated with fresh additions every month. You’ll constantly have new worlds to explore and new challenges to win.
The best thing about the IGV Game Pass is that it lets you get the games you want in a way that’s both legit and affordable, plus you can go on any of your gaming PCs if you’ve got more than one and transfer your save progress via the Steam Cloud. Say goodbye to the risks of pirated games and annoying PC viruses. No more worries for parents about corrupted files or sketchy downloads – just pure, safe gaming fun and peace of mind for parents.
PLDT Home Life’s complimentary IGV Game Pass to its subscribers is one of the latest offerings under the telco’s smart home category PLDT Home Life, which features device add-ons and digital services meant to round out and maximize the fast and reliable fiber internet connectivity.
Powered by PLDT Home’s fast and reliable Fiber connection, you can be sure that everyone at home will receive the internet boost necessary to handle high-demand activities. Unlock high-power gaming as well as crystal-clear streaming and uninterrupted video calls through and through.
Unli gaming, unli entertainment for all
PLDT Home Life’s partnership with IGV solidifies its commitment to providing more inclusive and experiential home entertainment for Filipino families.
“With around 65% of Filipino gamers playing on the PC platform, we saw a massive opportunity not just to cater to hardcore players, but to provide a fun, safe, and accessible way for the entire family to bond,” said PLDT Home SVP and Head for Consumer Business John Y. Palanca.
“Through our partnership with IGV, we are transforming PLDT Home Fiber into a gateway for unlimited entertainment for every household, regardless of age or playstyle,” he added.” “This is only the beginning. Expect more digital lifestyle services from PLDT Home that enrich how Filipino families live, connect, and play,” Palanca added.
If you’re an existing PLDT Home Fiber subscriber, just upgrade to Speed Add-on 500 to unlock 200+ PC games via your IGV Game Pass for 12 months. Experience ultra-fast internet at 1Gbps speeds and get in the game with your upgraded Wifi 6 modem. Just sign up on http://igvault.ph with your IGV voucher code to gain access.
If you’re a new PLDT Home Fiber subscriber, avail of any plan above 1699 to obtain your IGV Game Pass.
Learn more about unlimited gaming with your PLDT Home Life – IGV Game Pass by visiting pldthome.com/unligaming. To know more about other device add-ons and digital services that could add life to your fiber-powered lifestyle, visit pldthome.com/life.
New year, new stories, new reasons to head back to the big screen. This week marks the very first batch of movie releases for 2026, and it’s already serving a mix of laughs, thrills, and music-fueled moments worth watching. Leading the first new movie releases of the year are Anaconda, a jungle adventure comedy packed with chaos and laughs, and The Housemaid, a sleek thriller that turns a dream job into a dangerous game. The celebration continues this weekend with two highly anticipated event screenings arriving January 10. Fans can catch #Runseokjin_Ep.Tour The Movie and Love Live! Nijigasaki High School Idol Club Final Chapter Part 2, both ready to light up the big screen. Ready to make your first cinema pick of 2026?
Let’s check out what’s new on the big screen today.
The year kicks off with laughs, chaos, and a rainforest full of danger. Anaconda follows a group of longtime friends facing midlife crossroads who head into the jungle to remake their favorite movie from their youth. What starts as a nostalgic passion project turns into a wild survival story involving natural disasters, dangerous criminals, and enormous snakes.
With Paul Rudd and Jack Black at the center, the film delivers fast-paced humor, outrageous situations, and buddy-movie energy that feels tailor-made for a crowd.
2026 • R-16 • 2h 11m MYSTERY, THRILLER GET SHOWTIMES
If your first movie of 2026 needs a darker edge, The Housemaid is ready. Millie Calloway accepts a live-in job with the wealthy Winchester family, hoping for a fresh start. What she walks into instead is a seductive game of secrets, scandal, and shifting power that becomes more dangerous with every revelation.
Sydney Sweeney as Millie and Amanda Seyfried as Nina in The Housemaid. Photo Credit: Daniel McFadden/Lionsgate
Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried bring intensity and intrigue to a story built on tension, mood, and carefully timed shocks. It is sleek, unsettling, and impossible to look away from.
2026 • PG • 1h 34m DOCUMENTARY, MUSIC GET SHOWTIMES
The first concert film of 2026 brings Jin’s solo fan concert world tour straight to the big screen. Spanning 10 cities and 20 performances, the film captures the most thrilling moments of the tour, built around the theme of “challenge.” Across five energetic rounds, Jin sings, laughs, and connects with ARMY through music, missions, and heartfelt exchanges.
From tracks on his album “Happy” to songs from “Echo” and a special BTS medley, the experience blends emotion and spectacle in a way only a cinema can deliver.
The story continues in the second film of the Final Chapter trilogy. Picking up after season two and the OVA, this chapter follows the Nijigasaki High School Idol Club as friendship, ambition, and music guide their next steps.
With polished animation, powerful songs, and character moments fans have been waiting for, this installment delivers warmth, heart, and a celebration of what makes the series special.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Missed last week’s releases? No worries. After the MMFF 2025 entries that opened last December 25, these crowd-pleasers are still going strong, packing theaters with action, laughs, and heart. Here’s what’s holding strong:
The first new movies of 2026 bring variety excitement and fan-favorite events to cinemas this week. Start with Anacondaor The Housemaid today January 8, then line up your weekend plans for January 10 with two special releases made for the big screen. Keep ClickTheCity Movies bookmarked for the latest showtimes, your next movie is a click away. So tag your crew, grab that extra-buttered popcorn, and catch these must-see films. 2026 moviegoing starts now.
Mark your calendars as the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta takes flight on February 13 to 15, 2026, bringing three days of color, energy, and sky-high excitement to New Clark City in Tarlac. This upcoming edition is set to be one of the biggest yet, featuring 22 new special-shaped balloons, the highest number in its history, with pilots flying in from the United Kingdom, United States, Belgium, Netherlands, Macedonia, Switzerland, Germany, and Brazil. Each day of the 2026 edition will close with two crowd favorites: the glowing hot air balloons and a massive 500-drone show lighting up the New Clark City skyline with colorful formations and messages.
Guests can enjoy world-class action with Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) sanctioned paragliding and First-Person View (FPV) drone racing competitions, featuring participants from at least six countries, including the UAE, Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, and the Philippines. More competitors are registering following the announcement that the Airsports Federation of Asia (AFA) will hold its first 2026 board meeting in New Clark City during the balloon fiesta.
Adding even more energy to the experience is the fast-rising Soccer Drone competition, quickly gaining global popularity, with a demo court for visitors to try it out and hopes for the Fiesta to host a world championship in the future. School teams from Far Eastern Air Transport Incorporated University (FEATI University) and Philippine Air Transport and Training Services College of Aeronautics (PATTS College of Aeronautics) are forming their respective teams to compete, with the winning team set to represent the Philippines in international events and competitions around the world. A Paper Plane competition, open to all ages, invites everyone to join in the fun, while throughout the day, RC airplane demos, aerial dogfights, and kite shows fill the skies with excitement.
Filipino inventor Kyxz Mendiola will also demonstrate his homebuilt manned flying drone, showing himself flying inside it, a glimpse at the future of personal air travel, as it takes flight across the grounds for all to see. Ultralights will do their usual formation flying around the fiesta grounds. On the ground, guests can enjoy car drifting, browse through a lively Fly Market, and savor Pampanga’s well-loved dishes along with other popular food choices.
With the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) stepping in as a strong supporter, these efforts are expected to boost Aero Sports and draw more non-traditional tourism into the country. The PSC has begun supporting our paragliding and paramotor athletes for the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, and these same paramotors will be showcasing their skills during the event.
“For over 25 years, this event has been our way of sharing the magic of flight with every Filipino,” shared Capt. Joy Roa, expressing his excitement for the 26th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. “We’re thrilled to bring even more experiences that inspire, amaze, and open doors to the world of aviation.”
Ms. Frances Canlas, Investment Promotions Officer of the Provincial Government of Tarlac, expressed the local government unit’s full support to the Balloon Fiesta. She says, “This stands as a beacon of innovative sporting events and ushers in a renewed vibrancy as it soars once again in the province of Tarlac at New Clark City. This exciting event is expected to catalyze transformative economic growth, drawing thousands of visitors into the province and driving demand across the hospitality, culinary, transportation, and experiential sectors, while strengthening resilient logistics and supply chains province-wide.”
Engr. Mark P. Torres, Senior Vice President and Officer-In-Charge of the Bases Conversion and Development Bases and Development Authority (BCDA), noted, “As we prepare for this return, we envision a festival that is not only bigger and more vibrant, but also more inclusive—one that brings benefit to our communities and highlights Clark’s readiness as a premier tourism and investment destination.”
For those interested in a career in aviation, Capt. Joy explained that the Fiesta will feature passionate and successful professionals sharing their journeys. “We want to inspire the next generation of aviators by showing them how we started and what it takes to succeed in this industry,” he said. Attendees will learn about the adventures, challenges, and triumphs of working in a fast-paced field that offers strong career potential and high ROI. “Aviation offers excellent opportunities abroad, competitive salaries, and a chance to see the world while doing something you love,” Capt. Joy added. The lineup includes air traffic controllers, aircraft mechanics, flight attendants, safety inspectors, civilian and military pilots, and many more ready to share their stories.
With every flight and stunt over the years, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta has captivated audiences with unforgettable moments, from the “100 Years of Flying” tribute and aircraft rallies from across Asia to breathtaking performances by the Breitling Jet Team, the Wing Walkers, and the daring aerobatics by Mark Jefferies of the Global Stars team. The Fiesta has also thrilled spectators with annual skydiving exhibitions and tandem jumps, hosted Ms. Aviation competitions, and featured ABS-CBN concerts alongside the iconic hot air balloon night glow. Cultural exchanges with countries like Turkey, complete with traditional dancers, porcelain artists, and carpet weavers, have enriched the experience, while renowned Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor contributed designs for posters and souvenir programs. Indoor aviation career seminars have long inspired students to pursue careers in the industry, providing insights from experienced pilots, air traffic controllers, flight attendants, safety inspectors, and mechanics. These diverse experiences, from high-flying stunts and concerts to educational programs and cultural showcases, have become the very soul and heart of “A Weekend of Everything that Flies.”
Marvel Television has officially unveiled an all-new trailer and a striking set of stills for its upcoming series, “Wonder Man,” offering audiences an exciting preview of a superhero story told through the unpredictable lens of Hollywood.
Set to stream exclusively on Disney+ beginning January 28, the eight-episode series is created by Destin Daniel Cretton (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Spider-Man: Brand New Day) and Andrew Guest (Community, Hawkeye). Leading the cast is Emmy Award winner Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Simon Williams, alongside Academy Award winner Ben Kingsley, who returns as the ever-theatrical Trevor Slattery.
A Story of Ambition, Reinvention, and Stardom
Wonder Man centers on Simon Williams, an aspiring Hollywood actor struggling to land meaningful roles and gain recognition in an unforgiving industry. His life takes an unexpected turn after meeting Trevor Slattery, a performer whose most memorable work may be behind him—but whose love for acting remains larger than life.
Their paths collide when news breaks that legendary filmmaker Von Kovak is remaking the superhero film “Wonder Man.” Suddenly, the stakes are high. For Simon, it’s a chance to finally break through. For Trevor, it’s an opportunity to reclaim relevance. Together, they chase roles that could transform their lives, while navigating ego, desperation, and the illusion of fame.
The series offers audiences a rare peek behind the curtain of the entertainment industry, blending superhero mythology with grounded, character-driven storytelling.
Marvel with a Self-Aware Edge
Unlike traditional superhero fare, Wonder Man leans into satire, emotional depth, and industry commentary, balancing humor with heartfelt moments. The newly released trailer hints at strong performances, sharp writing, and an inventive tone that sets the series apart within the Marvel Television lineup.
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II brings intensity and vulnerability to Simon Williams, while Ben Kingsley’s return as Trevor Slattery adds wit, unpredictability, and a touch of theatrical chaos that longtime Marvel fans will instantly recognize.
Streaming Details
All eight episodes of “Wonder Man” will premiere January 28, streaming exclusively on Disney+.
Manila is about to get a taste of pure imagination. For the first time ever, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory lands in the Philippines, bringing Roald Dahl’s beloved story to life at The Theatre at Solaire from July 8 to July 26, 2026.
This Manila premiere marks a major moment for local theatre fans. Presented by Broadway International Group and Broadway Asia in association with GMG Productions and a roster of global partners, this production invites audiences of all ages into Willy Wonka’s wonderfully inventive world. Whether you grew up with the book, the classic film, or simply love a spectacular night at the theatre, this is one show that promises visual wonder and heart.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Photo by Yingzhou
From Golden Tickets to Pure Imagination
Based on Roald Dahl’s iconic novel, the musical follows young Charlie Bucket on his unforgettable journey inside Willy Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory. Expect chocolate rivers, nut-sorting squirrels, mischievous Oompa-Loompas, and theatrical surprises at every turn.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Photo by Yingzhou
The show blends beloved songs from the 1971 film such as “Pure Imagination,” “The Candy Man,” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” with fresh original numbers by Grammy and Tony Award winners Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, the creative duo behind Hairspray and Mary Poppins Returns. The result is a production that feels both nostalgic and thrillingly new.
A Global Hit Now Heading Our Way
After a sold-out run at Shanghai Culture Square in November 2025 and raves from audiences across Asia, the Broadway Musical is now making its Manila debut as part of a massive international tour. This global journey will travel through major cities including Hong Kong, Singapore, Beijing, Shanghai, Hainan, Taipei, and Seoul, with Manila proudly on the list.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Photo by Yingzhou
Producers Simone Genatt and Marc Routh describe the scale and imagination behind the show in their statement. “Roald Dahl’s CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY is a dazzling fantasy for everyone from everywhere. This new production features miraculous special effects and cutting edge hologauze 3D technology based on advanced magic principles. We are so excited to share the breathtaking world of this beloved Broadway musical about the power of imagination, and the art of invention with Beijing audiences in this spectacular new immersive production from an all-Broadway creative team!”
That same production now makes its way to Manila, complete with the technical wizardry and creative flair that have captivated audiences worldwide.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Photo by Yingzhou
Illusions, Inventions, and Stage Wizardry
A major highlight of the show is its theatrical magic, led by celebrated Las Vegas illusion designer Tim Clothier. Known for creating jaw-dropping stage effects, Clothier brings fresh ideas to Willy Wonka’s world. His passion for theatrical invention shines through in his words. “Willy Wonka is the king of imagination, and being able to design new stage wizardry for that character is a dream come true.”
Expect eye-catching effects, innovative illusions, and immersive stagecraft that bring Dahl’s surreal universe vividly to life.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Photo by Yingzhou
Ticket Details and Early Access
The Manila run is strictly limited, so fans will want to mark their calendars early. Here is how to secure seats:
UnionBank of the Philippines Early Access January 12 to 15, 2026 via ticketworld.com.ph
GMG Productions Waitlist for Early Seating Sign up at gmg-productions.com until January 14 at 11:59pm Philippine Time
Public On Sale January 17, 2026 through TicketWorld
For the latest announcements, follow GMG Productions on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, and @charlieglobaltour on Instagram for international tour updates.
The Broadway production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory premiered in 2017, running for more than 300 performances before touring North America for four years. It later enjoyed success in London’s West End, where it earned two Olivier Awards.
This touring version brings that celebrated legacy to Manila, blending family-friendly storytelling with world-class design, playful choreography, and a score that balances nostalgia with fresh energy. It is a rare chance to experience a Broadway-scale musical locally that speaks to both young audiences and seasoned theatre fans.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Photo by Yingzhou
The Creative Team Behind The Magic
The musical features music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman, and a book by David Greig based on Roald Dahl’s novel. Songs from the original motion picture were written by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley.
The original Broadway staging was directed by four-time Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien with choreography by Joshua Bergasse. For the global tour, the production is directed by Matt Lenz, choreographed by Alison Solomon, and musically supervised by Nate Patten and Greg Jarrett.
Design credits include Mark Thompson for set and costumes, Christine Peters for tour scenic design, Jeff Sugg for projections, Rory Beaton for lighting, Mike Thacker for sound, Basil Twist for puppetry, and Tim Clothier for illusions. Orchestrations are by Doug Besterman with musical arrangements by Marc Shaiman.
GMG Productions serves as Manila General Manager, ensuring the show arrives with the same polish seen on international stages.
With its inventive visuals, beloved music, and imaginative storytelling, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is set to become one of Manila’s most anticipated theatre events of 2026. It is joyful, family-friendly, and filled with moments that spark wonder long after the curtain call.
For show updates and more information about the production, visit www.broadwayasia.com.
Something strange—and wonderfully exciting—is lighting up the deep blue sea.
Fans can now catch a 1-minute sneak peek from The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, offering a cheerful glimpse into SpongeBob SquarePants’ most ambitious cinematic adventure yet. Brimming with classic humor, colorful chaos, and a feel-good sense of wonder, the clip sets the tone for a story that’s equal parts silly and surprisingly brave.
Watch the Clip here:
SpongeBob and Patrick Head Straight Into Trouble—and Fun
With optimism fully intact and common sense cheerfully left behind, SpongeBob teams up with his ever-loyal best friend Patrick Star for a journey beyond Bikini Bottom. Determined to prove he’s finally grown-up enough, SpongeBob follows the legendary Flying Dutchman, a mysterious ghost pirate whose reputation is as spooky as it is intriguing.
Along the way, laughter erupts, courage is tested, and glowing secrets rise from the ocean’s deepest corners—where, as fate would have it, no sponge has ever gone before.
Beloved Voices Return, New Stars Make Waves
Directed by Derek Drymon, the film reunites fans with the iconic voices that shaped generations:
The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants promises a joyful, high-energy comedy adventure packed with heart, humor, and unforgettable moments. From ghostly pirates to heartfelt bravery, this all-new story celebrates friendship, self-belief, and the magic of being unapologetically yourself.
Catch SpongeBob’s latest power-packed adventure when it opens in Philippine cinemas on January 14.
