Filmmaker Dean DeBlois, the visionary behind DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon trilogy, is ready to take audiences back to the skies. With a live-action twist and heartfelt nostalgia, DeBlois returns to the Isle of Berk, promising a thrilling new journey that blends epic storytelling with jaw-dropping realism.
“These characters and this universe have stayed with me, and now we can bring them back with such authenticity and conviction that, when audiences enter this world, they’ll never want to leave,” DeBlois says.
A Brave Boy, a Fearsome Dragon, and an Unexpected Friendship
At the core of this story is Hiccup (Mason Thames), a misfit Viking who defies his tribe’s legacy of dragon hunting. When he crosses paths with the elusive Night Fury, Toothless, an unbreakable bond forms—one that could change everything.
Together, they challenge centuries of fear and forge a path toward unity in a world threatened by darkness.
Watch the New Featurette Here:
Beyond Animation: A Richer, Wilder Berk
DeBlois and Emmy-winning producer Adam Siegel aimed to do more than recreate the animated saga—they expanded it.
“We wanted Berk to feel like a true crossroads of Viking culture,” Emmy-winning producer Adam Siegel says. “Through our research and Dean’s work on the animated franchise, we discovered that dragon myths exist in cultures all over the world. That gave us the chance to bring in influences from many traditions and make this world feel even more diverse and interconnected.”
This enriched tapestry brings new warriors, ancient myths, and stirring alliances to the forefront, showing that even the fiercest enemies can find common ground.
A Journey of the Heart
For DeBlois, the story of Hiccup and Toothless is timeless. “How to Train Your Dragon is about finding the courage to see beyond fear and convention. Hiccup’s journey shows us the power of questioning what we’re taught and embracing the possibility of something greater. He’s mocked, ridiculed and misunderstood, but he stays true to his convictions—and that’s what makes his story so universal.”
Through live-action, DeBlois leans into that emotional core, offering audiences an even more immersive experience of love, courage, and discovery.
With cutting-edge visual effects, beloved characters, and a story that spans generations, this new How to Train Your Dragon is both a nostalgic return and a breathtaking reinvention.
The wait is finally over for fans of the hit Broadway musical, Wicked. After captivating audiences for over two decades, this beloved story is taking a leap from the stage to the big screen with its highly anticipated film adaptation. Directed by Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights), Wicked is set to be a magical cinematic experience that will delight both longtime fans and new audiences alike. The film’s first part is set to hit theaters in the Philippines on November 20, 2024.
“As a fan, as a person who has loved this for twenty years, I know that this fights for the truth and the complexities of being misunderstood.” Ariana Grande speaks about the big-screen adaptation of the beloved Broadway classic, “Wicked,” where she stars as Glinda, in a new featurette.
A Tale of Friendship, Magic, and Discovery
At the heart of Wicked is the untold story of two unlikely friends, Elphaba and Glinda, and their journey to self-discovery. It’s a tale that dives into the complexities of identity, friendship, and standing up for what’s right in a world that doesn’t always understand you.
Ariana Grande, who plays Glinda, describes the movie as one that champions the truth and the beauty of being misunderstood. “Wicked fights for the truth and the complexities of being misunderstood,” she shares in a recently released featurette. As one of the film’s central characters, Grande’s Glinda is the bubbly, privileged young woman whose journey toward discovering her true heart will resonate with many.
Cynthia Erivo is Elphaba in WICKED, directed by Jon M. Chu
Meanwhile, Cynthia Erivo, who takes on the role of Elphaba, relates deeply to her character. “Wicked resonates with me because it lands on the idea that the possibilities in any person are endless,” says Erivo. As Elphaba, Erivo brings a powerful performance to the screen, embodying the strength of a young woman misunderstood for her green skin and untapped magical abilities.
Acclaimed director John M. Chu talks about how “Wicked” has connected with him. “It touched on things that I love and know: going to college, meeting friends, saying goodbye to friends. It’s a magical place, and life there is exciting. It’s a place where your dreams begin.
A Star-Studded Cast and Unforgettable Performances
Aside from Grande and Erivo, the cast is packed with star power. Academy Award® winner Michelle Yeoh (Everything Everywhere All At Once) steps into the role of Madame Morrible, while Jeff Goldblum (Jurassic Park) portrays the enigmatic Wizard of Oz. Their combined experience adds depth to an already rich and compelling narrative.
Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton) will play Fiyero, the roguish prince who becomes entangled in Elphaba and Glinda’s lives. The movie also features notable performances by Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, and Bowen Yang, ensuring the film delivers a diverse and dynamic cast.
Jeff Goldblum and Michelle Yeoh
A Timeless Story with a Modern Touch
Director Jon M. Chu brings his signature touch to the world of Wicked, blending the fantastical with the relatable. “It touched on things that I love and know: going to college, meeting friends, saying goodbye to friends,” says Chu in the featurette. “It’s a magical place, and life there is exciting. It’s a place where your dreams begin.”
Ariana Granda is Glinda in WICKED, directed by Jon M. Chu
Fans of the original musical can expect the same emotional depth and powerful storytelling that made Wicked a global sensation. With music by the legendary Stephen Schwartz, the movie is set to deliver show-stopping performances of fan-favorite songs like Defying Gravity and Popular. Audiences will be immersed in the magical land of Oz, brought to life on screen in ways never before seen.
Join them and discover the power and magic inside of you, as “Wicked” arrives in Philippine theaters on November 20.
More than Just a Musical
While Wicked is often hailed as one of the greatest musicals of all time, it is also a story about fighting for who you are. Michelle Yeoh shares that the film is very much about discovery and the relationships that shape our lives. “Wicked is about your relationship with other people, and the quality of those relationships can transform your life,” she explains.
The movie’s timely themes of acceptance, resilience, and self-discovery are sure to resonate with audiences of all ages. As the world becomes more connected, Wicked’s message of standing tall in the face of adversity and embracing one’s true self feels more relevant than ever.
A Cinematic Spectacle in Two Parts
Fans should note that Wicked is being released as a two-part film, giving the story room to fully develop and breathe. The second part is already slated for release on November 26, 2025. This immersive, two-part journey allows viewers to dive deeper into the characters’ lives and the magical world of Oz.
For fans of the original Broadway show, the movie offers a new perspective on familiar characters, while newcomers will be treated to a beautifully crafted world filled with magic, adventure, and unforgettable music. Whether you’ve seen the stage version a dozen times or are experiencing Wicked for the first time, this cinematic event is one you won’t want to miss.
Wicked Arrives November 20
Wicked has been a cultural phenomenon for over 20 years, and its transition to the big screen marks a new chapter in its legacy. With a stellar cast, jaw-dropping visuals, and the emotional core that made the musical so beloved, the film is set to leave a lasting impact on its viewers.
Don’t miss your chance to see Wicked when it opens in Philippine theaters on November 20, 2024. Follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates, sneak peeks, and more exciting news about the film.
As the saying goes, “It’s a place where your dreams begin.” Let Wicked take you on a journey of magic, friendship, and self-discovery that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
Are you ready for the thrill ride of the year? A group of fearless storm chasers risk their lives to face one of nature’s most terrifying forces in “Twisters.” The epic disaster film arrives in Philippine cinemas on July 17, but you can secure your tickets now ahead of everyone else by logging in at www.twisters.com.ph.
Meet the Tornado Wranglers
Tyler Owens (Glen Powell)
Tyler Owens (Glen Powell) The charismatic leader of the pack, Tyler is a former rodeo star who found fame on social media as a viral “extreme meteorologist.” He seeks thrills chasing intense storms across the country, bringing his daring exploits to a wide audience.
Kate Carter (Daisy Edgar-Jones)
Kate Carter (Daisy Edgar-Jones) Once passionate about predicting, chasing, and taming tornadoes, Kate now leads a life behind a desk, having stepped away from the storm-chasing world after a significant failure. However, when an anomalous extreme storm offers a shot at redemption, Kate is faced with the opportunity for a second chance at adventure.
Javi (Anthony Ramos)
Javi (Anthony Ramos) Haunted by the tragedy that struck Kate’s crew, Javi re-enters Kate’s life as an entrepreneur. He has developed new technology aimed at studying tornadoes with the goal of eventually taming them.
Boone (Brandon Perea)
Boone (Brandon Perea) Part of Tyler’s squad, Boone is the dedicated videographer capturing their escapades for social media, ensuring every thrilling moment is documented.
Lily (Sasha Lane) Lily is the drone-toting scout of the crew, using cutting-edge technology to track and monitor the extreme storms they chase.
Experience the Thrill
Watch these daring tornado wranglers chase the most extreme storms nature has to offer as “Twisters” crashes into Philippine cinemas on July 17. Don’t miss out on the action—get your tickets now and join the adventure!
Photo and Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.”
Experience the gripping prequel to the thrilling series, A Quiet Place: Day One. This new installment takes audiences back to the day the world fell silent. “We have gone back to the beginning of what happened before the creatures invaded Earth,” explains Lupita Nyong’o, known for her role in Black Panther, who stars as Samira, one of the film’s lead characters.
Recurring Themes and New Twists
Joseph Quinn, famous for Stranger Things, takes on the role of Eric. He discusses the familiar themes and exciting new twists that fans can expect from this fresh adventure. “In A Quiet Place: Day One, we explore similar themes to the beginning of the second film, where we watch the Abbott family navigate this invasion. However, this time, we’re set in an urban environment: New York City,” Quinn shares.
A New, Devastating Perspective
Djimon Hounsou, reprising his role from A Quiet Place Part II, emphasizes the stark differences in this prequel. “It’s a completely different perspective. A different environment, a different setting, and this one is so much more devastating to witness,” he says. “Day One takes us to one of the densest, noisiest cities in the world, and turns it completely quiet.”
Survival in Silence
Watch as Samira, Eric, and others strive to survive and navigate through a more dangerous, quieter world. A Quiet Place: Day One promises an edge-of-your-seat experience, arriving in Philippine cinemas on June 26.
Distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures, don’t miss this thrilling cinematic event. Connect with #AQuietPlaceDayOne and tag @paramountpicsph for the latest updates and more.
Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
