In “Migration,” the Mallard family is led by dad Mack (voiced by Kumail Nanjiani), who is content to keep his family safe paddling around their New England pond forever, and mom Pam (Elizabeth Banks), who prefers to shake things up and show their kids—teen son Dax (Caspar Jennings) and duckling daughter Gwen (Tresi Gazal)—the whole wide world. When a migrating duck family alights on their pond with thrilling tales of far-flung places, Pam seizes the opportunity and persuades Mack to embark on a family trip, via New York City, to tropical Jamaica.
Find out what some reviewers are saying about the movie!
Says Deadline, “It is the kind of animated entertainment that all ages will find something to like, and in terms of the creative talent involved it is a breath of fresh air in the genre.”
“Benjamin Renner’s new comedy ‘Migration’ offers a winning combination of a charming narrative and distinctive animation style,” says The Hollywood Reporter.
“It’s breezy and lighthearted but manages to hit a bullseye when it comes to the type of stories we need this season,” Collider shares.
Of the film’s animation, the Los Angeles Times says, “Where many animated productions sport a plastic sheen, ‘Migration’s’ textured look conveys a less-manufactured touch. There are lovely vistas taken in from the air. The hue palette is more muted than the usual candy-colored explosions. The light feels gentler with mellower shadows. We’re often in the magic hours of dusk or dawn. In the distance, the haze blurs to an almost watercolor effect.”
“Illumination soars to creative new heights with a hilarious CGI adventure that’s beautifully animated. Migration delivers a feast for the eyes that tickles your funny bone with wonderful character dynamics,” says MovieWeb.
“Migration,” from Universal Pictures International, is now showing nationwide. #MigrationMoviePh
Are you ready for your weekly dose of cinematic excitement? As a new week begins, get ready to indulge in a set of cinematic wonders set to unfold on the big screen. Whether you’re in the mood for some drama, a bit of fantasy, a romantic comedy, or an action-packed thriller, there’s something for everyone hitting the big screens. Let’s jump right in and explore the new movies opening this week!
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
2023 • PG • 1 hr 39 mins DRAMA, FANTASY BUY TICKETS
Imagine a world where the skies rain destruction. “Acid Rain” takes us into a dystopian reality where France grapples with a devastating climate catastrophe. Amidst this chaos, a girl and her divorced parents must unite to confront the relentless downpour of acid rain. It’s a gripping tale of survival and resilience, offering a poignant commentary on environmental issues. Prepare to be moved and challenged by this powerful drama.
Get ready to laugh and fall in love with “Anyone But You.” After a fiery first date, Bea and Ben’s sizzling chemistry takes an unexpected turn at a destination wedding in Australia. In a comedic twist of fate, they end up pretending to be a couple. Will this ruse rekindle their initial spark, or will it lead to more hilarious misadventures? This rom-com is sure to leave you with a smile.
2023 • G • 1 hr 23 mins ACTION, ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY BUY TICKETS
“Migration” is a delightful animated journey that follows the Mallard family as they embark on an extraordinary road trip. Inspired by a migrating duck family, they travel from New England to New York City and then to the sunny shores of Jamaica. This family-friendly film is filled with laughs, adventure, and heartwarming moments. It’s a perfect choice for a fun family movie outing!
In “Raging Grace,” an undocumented Filipina immigrant lands a life-altering job as a careworker for an old man, hoping to secure a better future for her and her daughter. But a harrowing discovery threatens to unravel everything she’s worked for. This film masterfully blends drama, horror, and thriller elements to tell a story that is both emotionally charged and unnervingly suspenseful.
2023 • PG • 1 hr 48 mins COMEDY, DRAMA BUY TICKETS
“Roadtrip” is a poignant yet comedic tale of five friends who embark on a journey to attend the wake of a friend. This film promises to be a touching exploration of friendship, loss, and the memories that bind people together. Expect a blend of laughter, tears, and heartfelt moments.
2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 30 mins ACTION, CRIME, DRAMA BUY TICKETS
The action-packed “Tokyo Revengers 2 Part 1: Bloody Halloween – Destiny” brings us back into the thrilling world of Takemichi as he time travels once more to save Hinata. This time, the stakes are even higher as he must alter a key event involving the formation of the Tokyo Manjikai Gang to prevent a tragic incident. It’s a gripping story of determination, friendship, and fate, set against the backdrop of Tokyo’s gritty underworld. Fans of the series, brace yourselves for an intense and emotional roller coaster!
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:
That’s a wrap for this week’s new movie releases. So, don’t wait! Secure your tickets, grab your popcorn, and immerse yourself in the excitement of these new releases. As always, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on these must-see releases. Stay tuned for next week’s movie updates, and happy watching!
“Migration” tells the story of a duck family that takes flight into the thrill of the unknown with a funny, feathered family vacation like no other. While dad Mack (voiced by Nanjiani) is content to keep his family, the Mallards, safe paddling around their New England pond forever, mom Pam (Banks) is eager to shake things up and show their kids – teen son Dax (Caspar Jennings) and duckling daughter Gwen (Tresi Gazal) – the whole wide world. After a migrating duck family alights on their pond with thrilling tales of far-flung places, Pam persuades Mack to embark on a family trip, via New York City, to tropical Jamaica.
But as the Mallards make their way South for the winter, their well-laid plans quickly go awry. The experience will inspire them to expand their horizons, open themselves up to new friends and accomplish more than they ever thought possible, while teaching them more about each other – and themselves – than they ever imagined.
An adventure for the entire family…
Nanjiani joined the movie because he felt that the film is something that families can enjoy together. “I just thought that, at its base, ‘Migration’ was a really good family movie,” he says. “And I felt that we are at a time when films like this, that are for everybody, just don’t get made anymore.”
Plus, it didn’t hurt that he got to work with people he admired! “To be able to work with [Illumination founder and CEO] Chris Meledandri, [writer] Mike White and Elizabeth Banks was very exciting to me,” continues Nanjiani. “Then Awkwafina, Keegan Michael-Key and Danny DeVito got cast, which was a great bonus that I hadn’t expected, but the main reason I wanted to do it was because I felt it was a movie everyone could enjoy.”
Banks was also excited to be part of the Illumination family because of the studio’s previous works – especially because they are movies that everyone can enjoy. “I wanted to be a part of ‘Migration’ because I think Chris Meledandri is a genius and Illumination films speak for themselves,” says Banks. “They are all just incredibly distinct, so I knew ‘Migration’ would be really funny and subversive, and that it would be both for kids and adults.”
… that’s also a love story!
Family dynamics aside, also at the heart of the movie is the relationship between couple Mack and Pam, whose philosophies about how best to live life happen to be polar opposites.
Says Nanjiani, “I think Mack is proven right in that there is a lot of danger out there, but Pam is also right about the need to step outside your comfort zone and challenge yourself. They really learn from each other, and I believe that most great movies with two main characters are about that – about completing each other. So, I find ‘Migration to also be a romantic story with parts where I get emotional because it’s about a husband and wife finding ways to reconnect and rediscover their passion for each other. It’s truly about two people who love each other, falling in love again.”
Banks agrees and adds that the adventure the Mallards go on is the key to Mack and Pam achieving a balance. “I believe the story is about that sense of adventure as much as it is about this couple truly connecting and leaving the sort of humdrum of daily life,” she says. “And almost in the style of ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith,’ their adventure brings out the notion of them having to work together to solve the problems they will encounter along the way. There is a real tango in the film to achieve that because I feel they have become a bit disconnected. One of the things I most enjoyed about the film is that I think a lot of couples will see themselves in this movie, apart from the family adventure.”
A life-affirming message
Apart from bringing joy to audiences, Banks also points to the movie’s message as an inspiration. “I also wanted to be a part of a movie that had this message about shaking ourselves out of our nest and getting back out into the world, showing how necessary adventure is for the soul – especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, which is when we made the bulk of the film,” she shares. “I truly believe in the message of this film. I love it!”
Nanjiani agrees. “This film talks about the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and living your life, and also about how relationships and families have to keep evolving,” he says. “Here we see that even though this couple has been together for many years, they end in a new place.”
And just as important, the film is visually stunning and fun to watch. “Migration is so fun!” says Nanjiani. “And it truly is a gorgeous movie.”
Watch “Migration” with your family and loved ones when it lands in Philippine cinemas January 17, 2024, from Universal Pictures International. #MigrationMovie
Guess what? Illumination’s stirring the animated pot yet again! This time, they’re whisking you away on a delightful, feathery escapade that’s, well, hilariously wild. Presenting… Migration! Picture this: A duck family’s wanderlust adventure voiced by the likes of Awkwafina, Elizabeth Banks, and oh, the ever-charismatic Danny DeVito. Add a pinch of Keegan-Michael Key and a dash of Kumail Nanjiani, and you’ve got a recipe for a rollicking cinematic experience.
Fluttering Beyond The Familiar
Helmed by the talented Benjamin Renner, Migration isn’t just any animated feature. This duck family’s quest for more goes hand-in-hand with a certain catchy tune. Yup, Taylor Swift’s rendition of “Out of the Woods” sets the beat as our feathered protagonists step out of their cozy pond and venture into the vast, unpredictable world. Ah, the things one does for a change of scene!
Save the Date for a Quacking Good Time!
Mark your calendars! Migration is flapping its way to the big screen on January 17. Brought to you by Universal Pictures, this flick promises to be a delightful escape you won’t want to miss. So, grab your flock, and get ready for a hearty dose of laughter, adventure, and of course, Taylor’s enchanting voice.
