Tag: Ayala Malls Cinemas

Ayala Malls Cinemas Celebrates Ghost Month With a Spooky Lineup of Hollywood Classics for Their Annual “Thrill Fest,” From August 21 to September 3
In some Asian cultures, the observance of Ghost Month every August is a time-honored tradition. It is said that during this time, the spirits of the dead come to visit the living. In celebration of this tradition, this year’s Thrill Fest by Ayala Malls Cinemas has been dubbed “Thrill Fest: The Ghost Month Classic Film Series” – and it boasts a spine-tingling lineup of thriller movies.

Starting August 21 until September 3, Ayala Malls Cinemas will showcase a formidable (and frightening!) lineup of classic Hollywood horror and thriller films that are celebrating their anniversaries this year – offering cineastes a rare opportunity for a limited time only to watch “Interview with the Vampire” (30th anniversary), “Gremlins” (40th anniversary), “A Nightmare on Elm Street” (40th anniversary) and “The Towering Inferno” (50th anniversary) the way they were meant to be seen – on the big screen. So get ready for two weeks of chills, thrills, and unforgettable moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Get ready for a terrifyingly good time at the movies this Ghost Month. Here’s a quick guide to this year’s Thrill Fest lineup of remastered classics:

INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE (Available August 21 – 27)
30th Anniversary. Released in 1994
Starring: Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, Kirsten Dunst, Christian Slater, Antonio Banderas

In “Interview with the Vampire,” 200-year-old vampire Louis de Pointe du Lac (Brad Pitt) shares his story with reporter Daniel Molloy (Christian Slater), chronicling two centuries of desire, love, yearning, grief, terror, ecstasy and regret. Based on Anne Rice’s popular 1976 novel of the same name, this movie adaptation was nominated for two Academy Awards.

GREMLINS (Available August 21 – 27)
40th Anniversary. Released in 1984
Starring: Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Hoyt Axton

In the idyllic small town of Kingston Falls, struggling inventor Randall Peltzer (Hoyt Axton) returns home with an unusual pet, called a Mogwai, as a gift for his son Billy (Zach Galligan). Taking care of the Mogwai is simple as long as they follow three important rules: Keep the Mogwai away from water, don’t expose him to bright lights, and never feed him after midnight. But the rules are broken, and the consequences literally multiply at an alarming rate. Written by Christopher Columbus (“Home Alone” 1 and 2, the first three “Harry Potter” movies), “Gremlins,” though involving creatures that can be frightening, is a fun watch for the entire family.

NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET (Available August 28 – September 3)
40th Anniversary. Released in 1984
Starring: Robert Englund, Heather Langenkamp, Johnny Depp, John Saxon

A man who was murdered returns as a hideously scarred monster in the terrifying nightmares of his killers’ children who, one by one, are starting to die in their sleep. This classic horror film and its iconic villain, Freddy Krueger, were created by horror slasher genre genius Wes Craven (the “Scream” franchise).

THE TOWERING INFERNO (Available August 28 – September 3)
50th Anniversary. Released in 1974
Starring: Steve McQueen, Paul Newman, William Holden, Faye Dunaway, Fred Astaire

Doug Roberts (Paul Newman) is the architect who designed the 138-storey Glass Tower, the tallest building in the world. But during the dedication ceremony for the skyscraper, an electrical short circuit starts a fire. San Francisco Fire Department chief Michael O’Hallorhan (Steve McQueen) arrives on the scene to help put out the fires, but with inadequate wiring that causes more fires, and the building being too high for such an emergency, will the people at the Tower survive? Directed by John Guillermin (known for another Hollywood classic “King Kong”), “The Towering Inferno” won three Academy Awards.

Exclusive cinematic experience

The Thrill Fest offers moviegoers an exclusive cinematic experience – the featured classics are currently not available on popular streaming platforms, and can be watched, for a limited time, only at Ayala Malls Cinemas, and at an affordable price too! For only P200 – P250, cinema patrons can rediscover old favorites in the following participating cinema branches:
1. Glorietta (P250)
2. Greenbelt (P250)
3. Circuit (P250)
4. Market Market (P250)
5. Fairview Terraces (P250)
6. Feliz (P250)
7. Trinoma (P250)
8. UPTC (250)
9. Manila Bay (P250)
10. Harbor Point (P250)
11. Solenad (P250)
12. Ayala Center Cebu (P200)
13. Centrio (P200)
14. Capitol Central (P200)
With state-of-the-art facilities, including plush seating, generous legroom, cutting-edge laser projections, better images and superior audio technologies like Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos, Ayala Malls Cinemas enhance the movie-watching experience, ensuring that viewers enjoy watching movies in the best possible environment.

In addition to the premium cinematic experience, Ayala Malls Cinemas offers movie lovers a chance to rediscover (and, for the younger ones, discover!) timeless masterpieces. Who says old movies can only be seen via streaming on usually small and mobile screens? Films, especially those created before the age of smartphones, were created for the big screen, the cinema. So hurry and book your tickets to the Thrill Fest now!

Make sure to catch the festival’s four classics – “Interview with the Vampire,” “Gremlins,” “A Nightmare on Elm Street” and “The Towering Inferno” – during their limited festival run in Philippine cinemas from August 21 to September 3. For more information on screening schedules and to book tickets, movie enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the Ayala Malls Cinemas FB and IG pages. You may book your tickets in advance by visiting www.sureseats.com or any of the participating cinemas.
August 17, 2024
Cinemalaya and Ayala Malls Cinema Making Dreams Come True

In 2005, the Philippine film industry seemed to be on a decline. The cost of producing films was too high, while digital technology and new methods of filmmaking were on the rise.

The Philippine cinema could not keep up with the changing times. Stories that were not commercially viable were sidelined.

Seeing this gap, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) along with other stakeholders looked for new ways to revive the film industry and help Filipino filmmakers have a platform for their truthful and socially relevant storytelling

And thus, the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival was born.

“Our vision was to support filmmakers, give them an initial grant in order to help them produce it,” said Cinemalaya XX deputy festival director Teresa Rances.

The organizing committee wanted to give the filmmakers a chance to tell stories with no restrictions; give them a playground to explore other possibilities in film-making.

In its fifth year, the Cinemalaya gained traction and even attracted mainstream directors.

The following years, Cinemalaya expanded its reach and brought its competing films to commercial cinemas.

Bringing Cinemalaya to the cinemas was really a dream come true of the filmmakers.

“Not everybody gets a chance to be seen in cinemas, which is always their dream,” said Rances. It opened opportunities for the filmmakers to be invited as well to international film festivals.

Starting on its 7th edition, Cinemalaya found good partnership with Ayala Malls. Through its expansive cinema system, Ayala Malls has been providing a space of exploration for the filmmakers and helping in bringing the indie film movement to the forefront.

It started out with two cinemas – one in Makati and the other in Quezon City. Then, it expanded to more Ayala Malls such as UP Town Center and Ayala Malls Solenad.

At one point, there were screenings at the Ayala Malls Cebu. It has been the hope of CCP and Cinemalaya Foundation Inc to bring the country’s pioneering film festival to the regions.

This year, Ayala Malls hosted the 20th edition of Cinemalaya, right at their newest mall – Ayala Malls Manila Bay.

What makes the partnership even more perfect – Ayala Malls Cinemas provides space for inspiring cinematic experience, while the festival brings in traffic to the mall. Together, they create an economic synergy that would help the film industry, as well as in the national economy.

“We want our audiences to be able to relate to the filmmakers, for them to be able to hear the voices of the filmmakers, their vision for the film and struggles and challenges they had in creating the film.” shared Rances.

The festival also brings informative documentary films and brings back some films from last year’s Cinemalaya. Being its 20^th year, Cinemalaya XX wants give AMC’s audience an experience they will never forget. And they also want to give the filmmakers a chance to make their dreams into a reality.

August 9, 2024
Ayala Malls Cinemas Ushers in Pride Month With Musical Romance “Glitter & Doom” Starring Filipino Actor Alex Diaz

Happy Pride Month! This happy and colorful month of June, Ayala Malls Cinemas exclusively brings “Glitter & Doom,” a unique and captivating film, at their theaters. This exclusive event underscores Ayala Malls Cinemas’ commitment to offering moviegoers distinctive and high-quality cinematic experiences.

Alan Cammish and Alex Diaz in “Glitter & Doom”

The film, whose cast includes Ming-Na Wen, Tig Notaro, Missi Pyle and Alan Cammish, proudly counts as one of its stars Filipino actor Alex Diaz. “I’m very happy to have ‘Glitter and Doom’ come to the Philippines exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas just in time for Pride Month,” says Diaz, whose local entertainment credits include appearances in “Ero” and “Ero: The Series,” “Oh, Mando!” and fan favorite movies “Just the Way You Are” and “She’s Dating the Gangster.” “This movie is just such a feel good film with a beautiful soundtrack and stellar cast. The process from landing the role a few years ago to now being able to share it with my kababayans has been the journey of a lifetime.

“I hope when people watch this, they feel proud, I hope they feel seen and most of all, I hope they have fun! It’s a fun movie and the music is really catchy!”

In “Glitter & Doom,” serious musician Doom (Cammish) and free-spirited circus kid Glitter (Diaz) start a budding summer relationship filled with camping trips, late-night conversations, and plenty of song and dance. Their relationship is put to the test as they deal with trying to make it in the music biz, their mothers (Ming-Na Wen and Missi Pyle), and finding what feeds each of their souls and dreams. The supporting cast boasts queer talent that includes Tig Notaro (“Army of the Dead”), Lea DeLaria (“Orange is the New Black”), “Drag Race” alum Peppermint and Indigo Girls Amy Ray and Emily Saliers.

The movie, billed as a “fantastical queer romance,” features 25 songs by the Indigo Girls, including “Power of Two,” a staple in high school playlists back in the ’90s, and “Closer to Fine,” which had a recent resurgence in popularity thanks to an iconic character singing the song during a road trip in last year’s “Barbie.” The Grammy-winning duo composed a new original song for the film as well, titled “What We Wanna Be.”

The Indigo Girls is a folk rock duo composed of Amy Ray and Emily Saliers. Said Saliers in an exclusive interview with Variety, “We immediately loved the script for ‘Glitter & Doom’ and became even more enamored as we watched the film grow and heard the production and arrangements of our songs,” said Saliers. “It’s an honor to be included in this artful and heartfelt story of misfits finding love.”

In the same interview, Ray said that “What We Wanna Be” was “inspired by the film’s characters and by my own experience of peeling off the layers of things I have built over the years to shield me from pain or even my own truth.”

Courtesy of Ayala Malls Cinemas

Immersive movie experience at Ayala Malls Cinemas

Ayala Malls Cinemas is known for enhancing the movie-watching experience with their state-of-the-art facilities, including plush seating, generous legroom, cutting-edge laser projections, and superior audio technologies like Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos. This ensures that viewers enjoy the film in the best possible environment, making each screening an immersive and enjoyable experience.

In addition to their exclusive screenings, Ayala Malls Cinemas is committed to bringing diverse movie content to cater to all types of moviegoers. Their programming includes a wide range of genres, from mainstream blockbusters to critically acclaimed indie films, ensuring that there is something for everyone. This dedication to variety is evident in their recent lineup, which has featured everything from family-friendly adventures and animated films to gripping dramas and intense action movies.

Ayala Malls Cinemas’ commitment to diversity and quality in their movie selections ensures that they remain a top destination for film lovers in the Philippines. For more information on screening schedules and to book tickets, movie enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the Ayala Malls Cinemas FB and IG pages and www.sureseats.com

Ayala Malls Zing Plus members can get extra perks as they can earn double Zing points when they use their Zing-linked credit card or GCash to purchase movie tickets at the Ayala Malls Cinema ticket booth or at www.sureseats.com with a minimum spend of P600. Promo runs until June 30, 2024.

Start off Pride Month by singing, dancing and falling in love with the colorful characters of “Glitter & Doom,” showing exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas starting June 5.

June 4, 2024
“Back to Black” Exclusive Screening at Ayala Malls Cinemas Starting May 15

Ayala Malls Cinemas proudly announces the exclusive screening of “Back to Black,” the powerful biopic celebrating the life and artistic journey of the legendary Amy Winehouse, starting May 15. Film enthusiasts and music lovers are invited to delve into the profound narrative of one of the 21st century’s most influential talents, whose emotional depth and vocal prowess captivated the world.

A Film Crafted from Amy’s Perspective

Directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, known for her insightful biopic “NoWhere Boy” about John Lennon, “Back to Black” offers audiences a unique view into Winehouse’s life, seen through the lens of her own lyrics and personal experiences. “I wanted to make a film from Amy’s perspective, through her eyes,” says director Sam Taylor-Johnson, whose previous works include “NoWhere Boy,” about another late genius artist, John Lennon. “The only place where her truth could be found was in her lyrics and music. I decided to tell her story through her own words, from the songs that she wrote, the songs where she poured out her soul. She sung of her love, her pain, her disappointment, all infused with deep emotion and often savagely sharp humor.”

Stellar Performance by Marisa Abela

Marisa Abela brings Amy Winehouse to life with an uncanny portrayal that has garnered critical acclaim. According to Variety, “Abela, whose lead performance nails Amy Winehouse in every look, mood, utterance, and musical expression.” The Guardian wrote that “Abela conveys [Winehouse’s] tenderness, and perhaps most poignantly of all her youth, so tellingly at odds with that tough image and eerily mature voice.”

A Collaboration of Respect and Authenticity

The production was developed in close cooperation with the music rights holders, Universal Music and Sony, and with a profound respect for Winehouse’s relatives and friends. Producer Alison Owen shares, “It was crucial for us to collaborate respectfully and to base the story on Amy’s own words. Our conversations with her mother Janis were particularly moving, adding a layer of emotional depth to our narrative.”

Experience More at Ayala Malls Cinemas

Ayala Malls Cinemas doesn’t just offer films; it promises an unparalleled cinematic experience with state-of-the-art visuals and sound, comfortable seating, and a selection of gourmet cinema snacks. Moviegoers can enhance their experience with the wide range of treats available at The Movie Snackbar, ensuring a perfect complement to the emotional and musical journey of “Back to Black.”

Special Offers for Ayala Malls Zing Plus Members

Members of the Ayala Malls Zing Plus program can enjoy additional benefits, such as earning double Zing points on purchases made with Zing-linked credit cards or GCash at Ayala Malls Cinema ticket booths or online at www.sureseats.com, with a minimum spend of P600. This special promotion is available until June 30, 2024.

May 14, 2024
Electrifying Drama “Challengers” Premieres Exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas

Starting April 24, moviegoers are in for a treat as Ayala Malls Cinemas exclusively presents “Challengers,” directed by the renowned Luca Guadagnino. Starring Zendaya, alongside Mike Faist and Josh O’Connor, this film promises to deliver high-stakes drama wrapped in a captivating narrative.

A New Peak in Zendaya’s Career
Zendaya, revered for her dynamic acting range, steps into the shoes of Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy and now a determined coach shaping the future of the sport. The plot thickens with a poignant reunion as Tashi’s husband, Art (played by Mike Faist), confronts his past in a climactic match against his once best friend and Tashi’s ex, Patrick, portrayed by Josh O’Connor.

A Story of Love, Rivalry, and Redemption
“Challengers” weaves a complex tale of love, rivalry, and personal redemption, set against the backdrop of a professional tennis match. This narrative not only challenges the characters’ relationships but also promises viewers an intense look into what it takes to win at love and sport.

Critical Acclaim and Stylish Cinematics
The film has already garnered critical acclaim for its powerful performances and unique aesthetic. The dynamic score by Reznor/Ross adds to the electrifying atmosphere of the movie, making every dialogue scene pulse with intensity. Fashion enthusiasts will appreciate the wardrobe curated by J.W. Anderson, which complements the film’s sizzling narrative.

Experience “Challengers” in Supreme Comfort
Ayala Malls Cinemas enhances this gripping story with their state-of-the-art facilities. Viewers can enjoy the film with crystal-clear images thanks to the latest laser projection technology, and immerse themselves in the action with Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos audio systems. The complete cinema experience is rounded out with a variety of snacks available at The Movie Snackbar.

Exclusive Offers for Ayala Malls Zing Plus Members
To make the movie experience even more rewarding, Ayala Malls Zing Plus members can enjoy double Zing points on ticket purchases via Zing-linked GCash, with a minimum spend of P600. This offer is valid through June 30, 2024.

Don’t Miss Out!
Prepare to be enthralled by the intensity and drama of “Challengers.” Visit www.sureseats.com or your nearest Ayala Malls Cinema to secure your tickets. Stay connected with Ayala Malls Cinemas through their official Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest updates on movie releases and exclusive promos.

April 19, 2024
Ayala Malls Cinemas exclusively brings a highly inspirational movie on kindness “White Bird: A Wonder Story,” opens March 20 in PH, ahead of U.S. release

Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to bring world-class, critically acclaimed films for movie enthusiasts with this year’s most-anticipated film White Bird: A Wonder Story, a follow-up to 2017’s Wonder, the beloved coming-of-age drama based on R.J. Palacio’s bestseller novel of the same name. Directed by Marc Forster (A Man Called Otto, Finding Neverland), White Bird opens exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas on March 20, months ahead of the film’s U.S. release in October.

White Bird: A Wonder Story is based on the critically acclaimed, beloved graphic novel of the same name by R.J. Palacio, the author of Wonder. This fictional film is the creative companion piece drawn from the universe of Lionsgate’s 2017 box office hit Wonder, starring Jacob Tremblay, Owen Wilson and Julia Roberts. For millions of readers and moviegoers, Wonder is the captivating, inspiring, and uplifting story of the power of kindness – how it can build bridges and change hearts. In White Bird, kindness even has the power to save lives, as Julian Albans (Bryce Gheisar, reprising his role from the previous film), the bully who left Beecher Prep, is visited by his Grandmère (Academy Award winner Helen Mirren) from Paris and is transformed by her remarkable story of compassion and courage. As a girl in Nazi-occupied France during WWII, the young Grandmère goes into hiding with the help of a schoolmate, a young man who risks everything to give her the chance to survive. Together, they find beauty and love in the secret world of their own creation.

From Marc Forster, director of Finding Neverland and Christopher Robin, White Bird – just like its predecessor Wonder – is an emotional story about the ways that even in the most harrowing circumstances, an act of kindness for others can make every difference in the world.

Gillian Anderson & Ariella Glaser in White Bird: A Wonder Story

Elaborating on his creative process, Forster offers, “we like to choose stories that have the ability to raise consciousness in the world and Wonder definitely did that.” As the graphic novel White Bird also offered Forster and executive producer Renée Wolfe a similar opportunity, albeit on an even wider spectrum, they became deeply interested in further exploring Julian Albans’ redemptive journey and bringing it to the screen.

Helen Mirren, who plays Grandmère, elaborates on Julian’s predicament: “As many young teenagers do, he’s going through a difficult time when he can’t quite find his place in the world and he’s lashing out as a reaction to that.” Adds Gheisar, who plays Julian, “Julian in this film has changed in many ways since Wonder. He’s realized that what he did was wrong, but he doesn’t really understand why.” By sharing her extraordinary tale of survival and her memories of the harrowing times she experienced at exactly his age, Grandmère hopes to help Julian understand that the world is a complicated and, sometimes, dark place. “But as Martin Luther King says, you have to find the light within yourself. Darkness will never drive out darkness. So that is the lesson that she is trying to teach him, simply through telling him her life story,” adds Mirren.

Helen Mirren and Bryce Gheisar in White Bird: A Wonder Story

White Bird: A Wonder Story was screened at the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival in July 2023, and premiered in Italy January this year. Writes Variety in their review: “Palacio’s book is fairly on-the-nose in messaging, symbolism and imagery. Forster brings a more refined visual sensibility that is inviting without being over-glamorized, opening up a potentially claustrophobic tale in ways that enhance its impact. Shot in the Czech Republic, the rural environs have a slight storybook quality in Matthias Konigswieser’s very attractive widescreen cinematography.”

Take your cinema experience to the next level

Ayala Malls Cinemas are designed to ensure that viewers experience the utmost comfort and enjoyment. Featuring plush seating and generous legroom, coupled with cutting-edge laser projections for sharper images, and top-notch Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos technologies to enhance audio depth, moviegoers are in for an exceptional cinematic experience. Cinema patrons can also enjoy a variety of delicious treats, such as popcorn, hotdog sandwiches, burgers and ice-cold beverages, from The Movie Snackbar. Explore the world of critically acclaimed films exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas, where every detail is crafted to elevate your time at the movies.

Julien Beaumier and Ariella Glaser in White Bird: A Wonder Story

Ayala Malls Zing Plus members can get extra perks as they can earn double Zing points when they use their Zing-linked credit card or GCash to purchase movie tickets at the Ayala Malls Cinema ticket booth or at www.sureseats.com with a minimum spend of P600. Promo runs until June 30, 2024.

Watch White Bird: A Wonder Story starting March 20 only at Ayala Malls Cinemas. Keep updated and all of the latest cinema experiences from Ayala Malls Cinemas by following the official Ayala Malls Cinemas FB and IG pages.

_{Photo credit: Lionsgate Films}

March 15, 2024
Ayala Malls Cinemas Exclusively Brings Award-winning and Oscar-nominated Film “The Holdovers” on February 21

Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to bring world-class, award-winning films within reach of every movie enthusiast as The Holdovers opens exclusively in its screens on February 21.

The Holdovers is arguably filmmaker Alexander Payne’s “most emotional movie,” says producer Mark Johnson (Rain Man, Breaking Bad).

Directed by Academy Award winner Alexander Payne (Sideways, The Descendants) from a script by David Hemingson (Kitchen Confidential), The Holdovers follows a grumpy instructor (Paul Giamatti) at a prestigious American school who is forced to remain on campus during Christmas break to babysit the handful of students with nowhere to go. Eventually he forms an unlikely bond with one of them – a damaged, brainy troublemaker (newcomer Dominic Sessa) – and with the school’s head cook, who has just lost a son in Vietnam (Da’Vine Joy Randolph).

The Holdovers has a 97% Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. RogerEbert.com finds The Holdover as a “consistently smart, funny movie about people who are easy to root for and like the ones we know”, while CNN praises The Holdovers as “one of director Alexander Payne’s best films – very funny, occasionally touching and a sterling example of the bonds that can be forged by an unlikely family.” Lauds Entertainment Weekly, “The Holdovers is a warm hug of a movie and the closest thing we’ve had to a new holiday classic in quite some time.”

The Holdovers has been nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay. It recently won two Golden Globe Awards, for Giamatti and Randolph. Don’t miss the critically acclaimed film, distributed by Universal Pictures International and available exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas.

Take your cinema experience to the next level

Ayala Malls Cinemas are designed to ensure that viewers experience the utmost comfort and enjoyment. Featuring plush seating and generous legroom, coupled with cutting-edge laser projections for sharper images, and top-notch Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos technologies to enhance audio depth, moviegoers are in for an exceptional cinematic experience. Cinema patrons can also enjoy a variety of delicious treats, such as popcorn, hotdog sandwiches, burgers and ice-cold beverages, from The Movie Snackbar. Explore the world of award-winning and Oscar-nominated films exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas, where every detail is crafted to elevate your time at the movies.

The Holdovers director Alexander Payne
Photo Credit: Universal Pictures International

Ayala Malls Zing Plus members can get extra perks as they can earn double Zing points when they use their Zing-linked credit card or GCash to purchase movie tickets at the Ayala Malls Cinema ticket booth or at www.sureseats.com with a minimum spend of P600. Promo runs until June 30, 2024.

Keep updated with The Holdovers and all the latest cinema experiences from Ayala Malls Cinemas by following the official Ayala Malls Cinemas FB and IG pages

February 15, 2024
“Tokyo Mer” Movie Adaptation Premieres Nov. 22 Exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas

Moved by the sight of medical practitioners and other essential workers risking their lives to save people at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, TV producer Masanao Takahashi created Tokyo MER (stands for Mobile Emergency Room), a tribute to the heroes of the pandemic. What started as a humble show of gratitude would go on to become a hit TV series in 2021 – with a movie adaptation that is currently one of the highest-grossing films in Japan this year.

This month, Filipino audiences can watch Tokyo MER on the big screen when it opens exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas on November 22. Reprising his TV role as Tokyo MER’s lead doctor, Ryohei Suzuki leads the cast of the film and is joined by notable newcomers, including Japanese idol boy band SixTONES’ Jesse as Tomohiro Shiomi, a trainee doctor assigned to Tokyo MER, and Anne Watanabe as Tomo Kamoi, the chief doctor of the MER team in the neighboring city of Yokohama.

The movie, directed by Aya Matsuki, takes place two years after the TV series, and the setting is the nearby city of Yokohama. The filmmakers wanted the big-screen adaptation to have a more realistic feel, so the main setting of the emergency is the Yokohama Landmark Tower, one of the tallest buildings in Japan. “In terms of the story, it matches the setting of spreading MER across the country [creating more MERs], and the Tokyo MER team is also close enough to rush to rescue,” said screenwriter Tsutomu Kuroiwa. As the emergency in the film is a big fire breaking out at the Tower, the filmmakers consulted with the city’s fire department to lend more authenticity to the film. They also consulted with medical supervisors about designing the newly established Yokohama MER’s ER car; the ER car, an emergency vehicle with the technology and equipment to perform emergency surgery on the scene before transporting seriously injured patients to the hospital, is a signature element of the show. Get ready to see an ER car that’s even more advanced than the one on the TV series. “I think it truly became a ‘dream vehicle,’” said director Aya Matsuki of the new ER car in the film.

Of the new additions to the cast, producer Ami Yagi said, “[The character of Yokohama MER Chief] Kamoi is a cool woman, in contrast to Kitami [Tokyo MER chief played by Suzuki both on TV and in the movie]. However, she is not just cold, but also has a side that shows her loveliness as a human being. I cast Anne Watanabe because I thought she would be able to embody this character.”

And of SixTONES idol Jesse, Yagi said, “I thought Jesse would show a new side through the role of Shiomi, which is a little different from the bright characters he shows on variety shows. Shiomi is a character who grows out of his shell, so I was hoping that it would be similar to how Jesse himself tackles roles that he has never played before.”

From Encore Films and distributed by Warner Bros., don’t miss the movie adaptation of Tokyo MER, exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas starting November 22.

November 10, 2023
Tim Burton’s “Beetlejuice” Will Head Back Exclusively to Ayala Malls Cinemas’ “Thrill Fest” for it’s 35th Anniversary

Celebrating the film’s 35th anniversary, the remastered version of Beetlejuice will span an audience who grew up in the 80s and 90s eager to see the film again in theaters, to an all-new moviegoing audience who are about to experience a beloved classic prepped to match today’s visual and sound technology (Dolby) that can be best experienced at Ayala Malls Cinemas.

The fantasy dark comedy stars Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis as the Maitlands, a young couple who try to haunt the pretentious humans who have moved into their New England farmhouse by eliciting the help of a demonic wraith (Michael Keaton) they cannot control. This comic fantasy, which mixes the quick and the dead with a laugh and a fright, launched the careers of major household names such as Keaton, Baldwin, Davis, Catherine O’Hara and Winona Ryder.

The special cinematic treat is part of this year’s AMC Thrill Fest, a month-long Halloween special by Ayala Malls Cinemas. Beetlejuice, which grossed nearly $75 million worldwide against a budget of $15 million, was an early success for Burton and the movie’s make-up team (Academy Award) who would go on to work on other beloved films and franchises such as “Batman,” “Edward Scissorhands,” “Big Fish,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and many more.

Thirty-five years after the film’s release, Beetlejuice remains popular, with merchandise and decorations in stores every Halloween. There is also a Broadway musical based on the film, and the film’s re-release is ahead of its long-awaited sequel set to open in 2024 starring the original cast, with Tim Burton returning to direct. The sequel also welcomes new additions to the cast such as Jenna Ortega (from Netflix’s “Wednesday”), Willem Dafoe and Monica Belluci.

With Ayala Malls Cinemas’ exclusive release of Beetlejuice, today’s moviegoers can relive and experience the thrill of watching it inside a cinema, just like when it became a dominant part of pop culture back when it was shown in theaters for the first time.

Besides the remastered Beetlejuice, horror enthusiasts can also watch “The Exorcist: 50th Anniversary Director’s Cut” as part of the Thrill Fest. Every year during the Halloween season, Ayala Malls Cinemas exclusively brings back iconic and classic films that redefined the genre and gave audiences an unforgettable and unique experience in theaters and are guaranteed to continue to thrill moviegoers today. After all, these classics are best seen in theaters with a crowd of fellow horror movie fans.

This year’s Thrill Fest lineup must-see horror-thrillers also included the successful screen return of “The Exorcist”, followed by “The Exorcist: Believer” and “The Forbidden Play”. Currently playing as part of the Thrill Fest is the Korean film “Target”, and “Five Nights at Freddy’s” will soon haunt audience on November 1.

These remastered films are back in cinemas for a limited time only. Have a frighteningly good time at Ayala Malls Cinemas this Halloween, be quick and book your tickets at www.sureseats.com

Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to treat its patrons this Halloween season with a free movie ticket for those who have watched five out of the six movies in the Thrill Fest lineup. You may fill-up your Thrill Fest card until November 7. So head your way now to the cinemas to get this movie perk.

Watch all these Halloween thrillers only at Ayala Malls Cinemas. Follow @ayalamallscinemas IG and FB.

October 26, 2023
Ayala Malls Cinemas’ “Thrill Fest” Exclusively Brings Iconic Horror Movie “The Exorcist” 50th Anniversary Director’s Cut

Ready for Halloween? To jump-start the spook-tacular season, Ayala Malls Cinemas is exclusively bringing back “The Exorcist” to theaters for its 50th anniversary, featuring a remastered director’s cut with additional terrifying visuals. “The Exorcist: 50th Anniversary Director’s Cut” officially opens on September 27 this year’s “AMC Thrill Fest,” a month-long Halloween special by Ayala Malls Cinemas.

This year’s Thrill Fest gives horror fans a chance to see cult favorites from the genre on the big screen. The classic horror movie “The Exorcist”, directed by William Friedkin and starring Max von Sydow, Jason Miller, Ellen Burstyn and Linda Blair, made history as the first horror film to be nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars, winning for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Sound. William Friedkin directs one of the most horrifying movies ever made. When a charming 12-year-old girl takes on the characteristics and voices of others, doctors say there is nothing they can do. As people begin to die, the girl’s mother realizes her daughter has been possessed by the devil – and that her daughter’s only possible hope lies with two priests and the ancient rite of demonic exorcism. This re-release of the iconic movie is also a tribute to the late Friedkin, who passed away August 7, 2023, at age 87.

An elevated horror experience awaits movie fans at Ayala Malls Cinemas with Friedkin’s Extended Director’s Cut that is sourced from the original 1973 cut camera negative with newly restored and remastered picture and sound – removing dirt, scratches, and other defects, while maintaining the film’s original creative integrity. Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to offer the moviegoing audience a whole new thrilling experience by bringing back the film that shocked the audience around the world when it was released 50 years ago that redefined and forever changed the horror genre.

Shortly after the re-release of “The Exorcist,” director David Gordon Green’s “The Exorcist: Believer” will hit cinemas October 4 which is also a part of the AMC Thrill Fest. The film is a direct sequel to the 1973 original and will see Burstyn reprise her role as Regan’s tormented mother, Chris MacNeil. The film will also star Leslie Odom Jr. and Ann Dowd.

These classics are best seen in theaters, with a crowd of fellow horror movie fans. At Ayala Malls Cinemas, horror enthusiasts can enjoy the experience with state-of-the-art features, including 4DX theaters with magical motion seats for a fully immersive movie experience.

With the classics on screen, Ayala Malls Cinemas fully complements this year’s Halloween adventure with their lobbies designed to capture those funny and spooky moments after watching the movies.

The galore of Halloween treats continue with Thrill Fest’s lineup of must-see thrillers that include The Forbidden Play (Oct. 11), Target (Oct. 18), Beetlejuice (Oct. 25) and Five Nights at Freddy’s (Nov. 1).

The Forbidden Play is a Japanese supernatural film about a son trying to resurrect her mother after a tragic death but has awaken something evil.

Target is a Korean thriller with a star-studded cast that includes K-drama’s favorites – Shin Hye-Sun (Mr. Queen), Kim Sung Kyun (Moving), Lim Chul-Soo (Crash Landing on You), Lee Joo-Young (School Nurse Files) and Kang Tae-Oh (Extraordinary Attorney Woo). The film takes action when a woman buys a defective washing machine and leaves angry comments on the shop’s website. Soon enough, strange things start to happen to her.

The original “Beetlejuice” celebrates its 35th anniversary so get ready to turn on the juice and see what shakes loose as Ayala Malls Cinemas brings the remastered version on the big screen.

The terrifying horror game phenomenon becomes a blood-chilling cinematic event, Five Nights at Freddy’s follows a troubled security guard as he begins working at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza. While spending his first night on the job, he realizes the night shift at Freddy’s won’t be so easy to make it through. Prepare yourselves for a game of hide and seek, ride and die as Freddy’s house of horror comes to life at Ayala Malls Cinemas.

Ayala Malls Cinemas continue to treat its patrons this Halloween season with a free movie ticket to those who have watched five out of the six movies in the Thrill Fest lineup.

Watch all these thriller flicks from September 27 – November 1, 2023 only at Ayala Malls Cinemas #WhereAmazingReelsAreReal

Check the full mechanics for more information at www.sureseats.com Follow @ayalamallscinemas IG and FB.

September 28, 2023