Let your imagination swim wild with Disney’s live-action adaptation of ‘The Little Mermaid,’ an enchanting retelling of the Oscar®-winning animated musical classic. Immerse yourself in a world teeming with wonder both over and under the sea, as it opens in Philippine cinemas nationwide on Wednesday, May 24, 2023. Check the screening times and book your tickets in advance.
This enchanting tale focuses on Ariel, a beautiful, spirited mermaid who yearns for a taste of the world beyond the sea. The youngest and most free-spirited of King Triton’s daughters, Ariel is drawn to the human world. During a secret surface visit, she becomes smitten with the charming Prince Eric—and while mermaids are forbidden to interact with humans, Ariel must follow her heart. Ariel’s affection for the prince leads her to strike a treacherous deal with the wicked sea witch, Ursula. The agreement offers Ariel a taste of life on land, but it threatens both her life and her father’s reign.
The film boasts an impressive cast, featuring singer and actress Halle Bailey as Ariel, Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric, Tony Award®-winner Daveed Diggs as the voice of Sebastian, Awkwafina as Scuttle, Jacob Tremblay as Flounder, Noma Dumezweni as Queen Selina, Art Malik as Sir Grimsby, alongside Oscar® winner Javier Bardem as King Triton, and two-time Academy Award® nominee Melissa McCarthy as Ursula.
Guiding this magical journey is Oscar® nominee Rob Marshall. The movie’s production team includes two-time Emmy® winner Marc Platt, three-time Tony Award® winner Lin-Manuel Miranda, Emmy winner John DeLuca, and Rob Marshall, with Jeffrey Silver serving as executive producer. The enchanting songs feature music by multiple Academy Award® winner Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman, and new lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, with the score by Alan Menken and music supervised and produced by Mike Higham.
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New allies, emerging villains, and intrepid humans – meet the motley crew of ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts‘. Brace yourselves as we dive headfirst into a universe teeming with vibrant characters and towering giants, ready to wage an earth-shaking battle for the fate of the world.
THE AUTOBOTS
OPTIMUS PRIME
Behold the indomitable commander of the Autobots, a picture of fearlessness. Optimus Prime transforms into a shiny red 1987 Freightliner LFA, with sharp silver trim. He is stoic, fearless, thoughtful and will not stop until the Decepticon threat – and any sinister mutations of it – has been neutralized for good and his Autobots have returned home to Cybertron.
OPTIMUS PRIME
Combat abilities: A formidable fighter, Optimus Prime has a left fist that doubles as an Ion Blaster and a right that doubles as an Energon Sword.
Voiced by: Peter Cullen
BUMBLEBEE
An Autobot scout most known for forming friendships with humans, Bumblebee converts into a black and yellow 1977 Chevrolet Camaro, now with a rugged off-road update. Open, optimistic and the eternal adventurer, he is fueled by the need to be there for his friends and fight to the end for the greater good.
Combat abilities: No matter the mission or challenge, Bumblebee will always bring his A-game.
MIRAGE
This Autobot warrior, which has been stuck in an underground car park for way too long for his liking, converts into a silver 964-Gen Porsche 911. Cool, casual and can be a little cocky, Mirage delights in pushing limits and testing boundaries, and isn’t afraid to challenge authority. Despite all that, he sincerely believes in doing the right thing and would never let any harm come to his friends.
Combat abilities: Can do holographic illusions. With the ability to multiply before his opponents’ eyes, he can throw them off his tail in a flash.
Voiced by: Pete Davidson
ARCEE
This Autobot sharpshooter transforms into a sleek, dark pink and white Ducati 916 motorcycle and enjoys verbal sparring with her friends and allies. Like her fellow Autobots, Arcee is a tireless defender of freedom and the common good, dedicated to protecting the right of all sentient beings to determine their own destiny.
Combat abilities: In her motorcycle mode, Arcee dazzles with her agility and precision of movement as a hunter and an elite sharpshooter. And it doesn’t hurt that she has a double-barreled Ion blaster.
Voiced by: Liza Koshy
WHEELJACK
A master Autobot mechanic, Wheeljack, who’s been hiding out in South Africa, transforms into a brown and cream 1970 Volkswagen Bus. Known to his allies for his ingenuity and technical knowledge, Wheeljack is also committed to ending the war that threatens Earth, so he and the rest of the Autobots can make a peaceful return to Cybertron.
Combat abilities: An ingenious inventor, a crack mechanic and an intrepid scientist, Wheeljack is one triple-threat Autobot.
Voiced by: Cristo Fernández
STRATOSPHERE
This Autobot transport plane converts into a military-green monolith that’s an amalgamation of the body of a C-130 Hercules, the wings of a C-17 Globemaster III, the cockpit of a C-5 Galaxy, and the tail of an Antonov An-225. A gruff and unflappable senior member of the Autobot team, Stratosphere is currently grounded but ready to fly back into action.
Combat abilities: Stratosphere’s vast size can fit the entire Autobot team inside his massive cargo hold. He can also provide high-altitude covering fire.
Voiced by: John DiMaggio
THE MAXIMALS
OPTIMUS PRIMAL
The leader of the Maximals, a heroic beast faction of Transformers bots, Optimus Primal has been hiding out in the jungles of Machu Picchu, Peru, and converts into a 13-foot-tall metallic silverback gorilla with fists the size of boulders. Optimus Primal and the rest of the Maximals are ever vigilant, watchful for the return of an evil they have battled across galaxies, for eons.
Combat abilities: A roar from Primal is enough to stop enemies in their tracks, and a pound from his gigantic fists makes even the ground quake in fear.
Voiced by: Ron Perlman
AIRAZOR
A Maximal scout, Airazor converts into a peregrine falcon with a jaw-dropping wingspan and deadly poise and power, and is unafraid to operate alone and fly without backup.
Combat abilities: Her falcon beast mode gives Airazor astonishing attack capabilities in tandem with her high-flying prowess, like being able to rain down destructive fire from her mighty beak.
Voiced by: Michelle Yeoh
CHEETOR
This Maximal warrior converts into a cheetah the size of a small truck with a grace and athleticism that belies his bulk.
Combat abilities: A supersonic blur, Cheetor is the fastest of all the Transformers beasts. His sheer speed combined with his colossal claws means he can strike down his enemies before they even see him coming.
Voiced by: Tongayi Chirisa
RHINOX
Another Maximal warrior, Rhinox converts into an enormous metallic Rhino – 8,000 pounds of sheer force.
Combat abilities: Defined by his staggering strength and peerless physicality, once Rhinox gets going, he is impossible to stop.
Voiced by: David Sobolov
THE TERRORCONS
SCOURGE
The most fearsome hunter in the universe, this Terrorcon leader converts into a monstrous looking 1994 Peterbilt 359, with four exhausts belching black smoke into the air, and a horrifying, maw-like front grill. Ruthless, cunning, treacherous and incredibly powerful, Scourge commands the Terrorcons on the mission of annihilation they have carried out for thousands of years across thousands of worlds, leaving nothing but chaos and ruin in their wake.
Combat abilities: Scourge is as patient as he is fierce and ferocious – a deadly combination. The ultimate Autobot-hunting machine, he has a giant electric claw and devastating blade. He also has a collection of six-legged Terrorcon Freezers – mechanical insectoids that can sniff out his prey.
Voiced by: Peter Dinklage
BATTLETRAP
This elite Terrorcon scout and enforcer transforms into a blood orange and black GMC with a rear-mounted crane for dragging the carcasses of his defeated enemies away.
Combat abilities: In the spirit of his considerable appetite for destruction, Battletrap’s left fist is capable of unleashing an electrified flail – a huge ball on a chain designed for maximum carnage.
Voiced by: David Sobolov
NIGHTBIRD
A Terrorcon ninja, Nightbird is the ultimate assassin that converts into a jet-black Nissan Skyline GTR R33, with a suitably shadowy matt copper trim.
Combat abilities: An enemy you don’t see coming until it’s too late, Nightbird is armed with twin katanas and an ability to attack her victims in deadly silent strikes.
Voiced by: Michaela Jaé Rodriguez
THE DEITY
UNICRON
Known as a devourer of planets, Unicron uses the energy from the ecosystems he’s ingested to become the most omnipotent force in the multiverse. An embodiment of evil, Unicron’s primary function is to bring chaos and ruin, and he uses the Terrorcons to accomplish this mission.
Combat abilities: Unicron is an ever so hungry deity so large it can consume entire other worlds – and all life on them.
Voiced by: Colman Domingo
THE HUMANS
NOAH
Noah is an ex-military electronics expert who, in his pursuit to help provide for his family, becomes a reluctant hero in the war between enormous extra-terrestrial bots that could end humanity as we know it.
Combat abilities: He’s brave even when the odds are massively against him.
Played by: Anthony Ramos
ELENA
A keen but largely underappreciated artifacts researcher working at the New York Museum of Archaeology, Elene has a passion for mankind’s history that might just safeguard its future.
Combat abilities: Terrorcons or not, Elena isn’t one to back down from a fight – especially one that can save the world.
Played by: Dominique Fishback
About Transformers: Rise of the Beasts
Returning to the action and spectacle that have captured moviegoers around the world, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts will take audiences on a ’90s globetrotting adventure with the Autobots and introduce a whole new breed of Transformer – the Maximals – to join them as allies in the existing battle for earth. Directed by Steven Caple Jr. and starring Anthony Ramos and Dominique Fishback, the film arrives in theaters June 7.
The screenplay is by Joby Harold and Darnell Metayer & Josh Peters and Erich Hoeber & Jon Hoeber, story by Joby Harold, based on Hasbro’s Transformers™ Action Figures.
Produced by Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Tom DeSanto & Don Murphy, Michael Bay, Mark Vahradian, Duncan Henderson.
The film stars Anthony Ramos, Dominique Fishback, Tobe Nwigwe, Peter Cullen, Ron Perlman, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, Liza Koshy, John DiMaggio, David Sobolov, Michaela Jae Rodriguez, Pete Davidson, Cristo Fernández.
This is just a teaser of what’s in store for you in “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts”. As new friendships are formed and rivalries resurface, one thing is certain – it’s going to be a ride you won’t forget. Buckle up and let’s roll out!
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Connect with #Transformers #RiseOfTheBeasts and tag @paramountpicsph
Photo & Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
Hold on to your seats, because “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning – Part One” just unveiled an adrenaline-pumping trailer that’s sure to thrill fans. Hitting Philippine cinemas on July 12, the latest installment in the beloved franchise stars Tom Cruise, who returns as Ethan Hunt to take on yet another perilous mission.
Paramount Pictures and Skydance present a Tom Cruise Production, a film directed by Christopher McQuarrie that brings the iconic television series created by Bruce Geller to life. Produced by Tom Cruise and Christopher McQuarrie, with executive producers David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Don Granger, and Tommy Gormley, this action-packed film promises non-stop excitement.
Joining Tom Cruise on this daring adventure are Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Rebecca Ferguson, Vanessa Kirby, Hayley Atwell, Shea Whigham, Pom Klementieff, Esai Morales, Henry Czerny, Rob Delaney, Cary Elwes, Indira Varma, Mark Gatiss, Charles Parnell, Greg Tarzan Davis, and Frederick Schmidt. With an all-star cast like this, there’s no doubt that “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning – Part One” will deliver high-stakes action and heart-stopping moments.
So, mark your calendars and gear up for the action-packed cinematic experience of “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning – Part One,” exploding onto Philippine screens this July 12th!
It’s that time of the week again! Another exciting week as a new batch of movies hits theaters this week. From spine-chilling horror to heartwarming romance, there’s a story for everyone. We’ll also take a quick detour to revisit the crowd-pleasers that are still delighting audiences in theaters. Buckle up, movie buffs – it’s going to be a wild ride! Let’s speed into the weekly roundup of new movies opening this week.
True to its name, this film promises to be a high-octane thrill ride that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Can’t get enough of that need for speed? Then this might just be your ticket to adrenaline heaven.
Vin Diesel is Dom in FAST X, directed by Louis Leterrier
Over many missions and against impossible odds, Dom Toretto and his family have outsmarted, out-nerved and outdriven every foe in their path. Now, they confront the most lethal opponent they’ve ever faced: A terrifying threat emerging from the shadows of the past who’s fueled by blood revenge, and who is determined to shatter this family and destroy everything—and everyone—that Dom loves, forever.
This delightful dramedy hits all the right notes, serving a slice of life with a side of laughter and a dash of drama. Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too? Richardson, Reggie and Melvin have have been friends for many years despite working in different fields. They decided to go on a vacation, finding themselves in hilarious situations, but at the same time, they are able to address some family issues. Everything’s going perfectly well until the night Reggie collapses. And then it all comes crashing down.
For mystery enthusiasts, the “Detective Conan: TV Compilation – Mystery Train” might just be the ticket. This gripping compilation will make your hair stand on end as you join Conan in untangling the web of intrigue aboard the Mystery Train. Are you ready to embark on this thrilling journey? Shiho Miyano, a scientist from the Black Organization, develops the Apotoxin 4869, a drug that turns Shinichi Kudo into a child. When Shiho learns of her sister’s murder by the Organization, she defects, taking the drug herself. Now, as Ai Haibara, she must evade her pursuers. This spin-off features beloved episodes such as “Reunion with the Black Organization”, “The Mysterious Passenger”, and “The Jet-Black Mystery Train”, leading to a nail-biting climax. Will Ai Haibara survive the explosive confrontation? Find out in this thrilling saga, continuing to “The Black Iron Submarine”.
A man becomes determined to protect his family from a dark cult whose members come in the guise of perfect tenants.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
If you missed them the first time around, fear not! You can still catch some of the most popular films of recent weeks. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still playing in theaters:
That’s a wrap for this week’s movie guide. From new releases to ongoing hits, there’s a movie for everyone. So grab your popcorn, settle into your seat, and let the magic of the movies sweep you away!
Action icon Wu Jing has been very busy. Internationally acclaimed actor, director, and martial artist Wu Jing (“Wolf Warrior,” “Shaolin”) has been keeping himself quite occupied. As the month unfolds, this dynamic talent from China will grace the big screens once more in the prequel to the 2019 futuristic blockbuster, “The Wandering Earth.”
Baffling, isn’t it? How could Wu Jing return, given the ultimate destiny of his character in the original movie? Director Frant Gwo, through his ingenious creativity, found the perfect solution. “Wu provided us with a lot of selfless help in the first installment,” said Gwo in an interview with China.org.cn. “I wanted to show gratitude to him, but I didn’t want to write some unconvincing plot about his resurrection. So, I said, let’s do a prequel.”
Eager for a sneak peek? Catch the trailer for “The Wandering Earth II” right here:
In a conversation with Global Times promoting the first film, Jing expressed his hope that “The Wandering Earth” would ignite the spark of science in young minds. Being a father himself, it’s no wonder that Jing eagerly agreed to be a part of the prequel.
In “The Wandering Earth II,” after learning that the sun is rapidly burning out and will obliterate Earth in the process, humans build enormous engines to propel the planet to a new solar system, far out of reach of the sun’s fiery flares. However, the journey out into the universe is perilous, and humankind’s last shot at survival will depend on a group of young people brave enough to step up and execute a dangerous, life-or-death operation to save the earth. The film, to be released by Warner Bros. Pictures exclusively in cinemas in the Philippines on May 31, also stars international star Andy Lau.
Aside from this much-anticipated prequel, Jing will captivate fans in another eagerly-awaited sequel, “Meg 2: The Trench,” hitting the cinemas on August 2.
Helmed by Frant Gwo and co-scripted by Gong Ge’er, “The Wandering Earth II” – the prequel to the acclaimed “The Wandering Earth” – brings to life the narrative envisioned by author Liu Cixin.
The film showcases a stellar ensemble cast featuring Andy Lau, Wu Jing, Li Xuejian, Sha Yi, Ning Li, Wang Zhi, and Zhu Yanmanzi.
Set to premiere on May 31, “The Wandering Earth II” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.
How can you top an Oscar®-winning animated feature that redefined CG animation and gave a fresh, multicultural spin to a beloved Marvel superhero? For the innovative minds at Sony Pictures Animation, the answer lies in raising the stakes, venturing into new territories, and weaving in unexpected plot twists, all while staying true to the story’s emotional heart. Catch a glimpse of the thrilling journey of “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” here.
Spider-Man/Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) in Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animations’ SPIDER-MAN™: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE.
“We took everything that we did in the first movie and cranked it to a whole new level,” says filmmaker Christopher Miller, one of the film’s writers and producers. “With this movie, we’re visiting different universes, and each universe has its own aesthetic and own artistic style. Each world is so different visually from the others, and the things that the people at Sony Pictures Animation and Imageworks have designed are limited by absolutely nothing. Anything you can imagine, paint and conceive, they can make an immersive 3D spectacle – and that’s often absolutely jaw-dropping.”
Producer Amy Pascal adds, “This movie is a lot bigger and will have all the action that everyone’s looking for. But what I hope we’ll achieve is that the action sequences come out of character development and that you’re always telling a good story – we’ve been quite rigorous about that.”
Producer Avi Arad notes, “I think one point that comes across in the movie is that heroes exist in all cultures.”
Triple Vision Powerhouse
“What’s really inspiring is that each one of our new directors was able to bring something unique to the experience, a personal strength or viewpoint that was completely different from ours,” notes filmmaker Phil Lord, another writer and producer for the sequel.
Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) and Gwen Stacy (Hailee Steinfeld) take on The Spot (Jason Schwartzman) in Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animation’s SPIDER-MAN™: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE.
Joaquim Dos Santos, who co-directs the sequel with Kemp Powers and Justin K. Thompson, shares, “We’ve often joked about the fact that as a team of three directors, we each have our own individual superpowers. “Justin was the production designer on the first film, and has an amazing eye for design and knows how to push design especially when you’re visiting all these different worlds. Kemp is obviously an amazing writer. He has this fantastic backlog of work that has received every accolade and deserves even more because he’s an absolute virtuoso. My own background is as a story artist, so I am about telling stories through visual camera work. We are constantly checking each other’s work and showing each other what we are doing, and everybody has a say. It’s a very democratic process.”
Rekindling an Old Friendship
Gwen Stacy (Hailee Steinfeld), Peter B. Parker (Jake Johnson) and his daughter Mayday in Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animations’ SPIDER-MAN™: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE.
“I hope audiences will feel like they’ve been reunited with a good friend,” says Peter Ramsey, one of the directors of the first film and now an executive producer for the sequel. “We want them to hold on tight as Miles goes through some really tricky and treacherous times. Most of all, I hope his journey comes across as powerfully and emotionally strong as it did in the original movie.”
About Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
Miles Morales returns for the next chapter of the Oscar®-winning Spider-Verse saga, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. After reuniting with Gwen Stacy, Brooklyn’s full-time, friendly neighborhood Spider-Man is catapulted across the Multiverse, where he encounters a team of Spider-People charged with protecting its very existence. But when the heroes clash on how to handle a new threat, Miles finds himself pitted against the other Spiders and must redefine what it means to be a hero so he can save the people he loves most.
Spider-Man/Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) in Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animations’ SPIDER-MAN™: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE.
Miles Morales returns for the next chapter of the Oscar®-winning Spider-Verse saga, Spider-Man™: Across the Spider-Verse. After reuniting with Gwen Stacy, Brooklyn’s full-time, friendly neighborhood Spider-Man is catapulted across the Multiverse, where he encounters the Spider Society, a team of Spider-People charged with protecting the Multiverse’s very existence. But when the heroes clash on how to handle a new threat, Miles finds himself pitted against the other Spiders and must set out on his own to save those he loves most. Anyone can wear the mask – it’s how you wear it that makes you a hero.
Directed by Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson, the screenplay is by Phil Lord & Christopher Miller and David Callaham, based on the MARVEL Comic Books.
Produced by Avi Arad, Amy Pascal, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, Christina Steinberg.
The film’s cast is led by Shameik Moore and Hailee Steinfeld, Jake Johnson, Issa Rae, Daniel Kaluuya, Jason Schwartzman, Brian Tyree Henry, Luna Lauren Velez, Greta Lee, Rachel Dratch, Jorma Taccone, Shea Whigham and Oscar Isaac
‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ is distributed by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #SpiderVerse
In the heart of Hollywood, the evening sparkled with enchantment as the world premiere of Disney’s live-action “The Little Mermaid” splashed onto the scene at the iconic Dolby Theater. Cast, filmmakers, and celebrity guests gathered to toast the film’s upcoming launch. The highly anticipated reimagining of the studio’s Oscar®-winning animated musical classic, ‘The Little Mermaid,’ directed by the visionary Rob Marshall, is set to make waves in Philippine cinemas on Wednesday, May 24, 2023.
A view from the World Premiere of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, CA on Monday, May 8, 2023
(photo: Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)Jonah Hauer-King, Melissa McCarthy, Javier Bardem, Noma Dumezweni, Halle Bailey, Ron Marshall, Art Malik, Daveed Diggs, Jessica Alexander, Awkwafina, Simone Ahsley, Jacob Tremblay, Lorena Andrea, Sienna King, Alan Menken, Marc Platt and John DeLuca attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, CA on Monday, May 8, 2023
(photo: Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)Javier Bardem, Daveed Diggs, Jonah Hauer-King, Halle Bailey, Melissa McCarthy, Awkwafina, Jacob Tremblay, Alan Menken attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, CA on Monday, May 8, 2023
(photo: Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 08: Heidi Klum attends the World Premiere of Disney’s live-action feature “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California on May 08, 2023. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 08: (L-R) John DeLuca, Jodi Benson and Rob Marshall attend the World Premiere of Disney’s live-action feature “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California on May 08, 2023. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)
Star-Studded Ocean of Talent
The film’s ensemble cast includes the charismatic Halle Bailey, Jonah Hauer-King, Daveed Diggs, Awkwafina, Jacob Tremblay, Javier Bardem, Melissa McCarthy, Noma Dumezweni, and Art Malik. They joined visionary director/producer Rob Marshall, screenwriter David Magee, producers Marc Platt and John DeLuca, composer Alan Menken, and executive producer Jeffrey Silver. A parade of celebrity guests added to the night’s glow, including Jodi Benson, Heidi Klum, Yvette Nicole Brown, Anika Noni Rose, Eric Benet, John Stamos, Ellen Pompeo, Alyssa Milano, and more.
Jonah Hauer-King, Halle Bailey and Melissa McCarthy attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, CA on Monday, May 8, 2023
(photo: Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 08: (L-R) Jonah Hauer-King and Javier Bardem attend the World Premiere of Disney’s live-action feature “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California on May 08, 2023. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)
“The Little Mermaid” has long captured hearts with its tale of Ariel, a young, adventurous mermaid with an insatiable curiosity. Ariel, the youngest and most headstrong of King Triton’s daughters, yearns to explore the world beyond her ocean home. Her heart skips a beat when she encounters the handsome Prince Eric on one of her forbidden surface visits. While mermaids are forbidden from interacting with humans, Ariel must follow her heart. Risking everything for love, Ariel strikes a precarious deal with the sinister sea witch, Ursula. While this pact gives her a taste of life on land, it also endangers her life and her father’s kingdom.
Halle Bailey attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, CA on Monday, May 8, 2023
(photo: Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 08: (L-R) Awkwafina and Daveed Diggs attend the World Premiere of Disney’s live-action feature “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California on May 08, 2023. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)Melissa McCarthy attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, CA on Monday, May 8, 2023
(photo: Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)Sienna King, Jessica Alexander and Lorena Andrea attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, CA on Monday, May 8, 2023
(photo: Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)
Our new Ariel is singer and actress Halle Bailey, known from “grown-ish”, while the charming Jonah Hauer-King of “A Dog’s Way Home” fame plays Prince Eric. The talented ensemble also includes Tony Award® winner Daveed Diggs (“Hamilton”) as Sebastian, Awkwafina (“Raya and the Last Dragon”) voicing Scuttle, Jacob Tremblay (“Room”) as Flounder, Noma Dumezweni (“Mary Poppins Returns”) as The Queen, Art Malik (“Homeland”) as Sir Grimsby, Oscar® winner Javier Bardem (“No Country for Old Men,” “Being the Ricardos”) as King Triton, and two-time Academy Award® nominee Melissa McCarthy (“Can You Ever Forgive Me?” “Bridesmaids”) as Ursula.
Marc Platt, John Deluca and Rob Marshall attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, CA on Monday, May 8, 2023
(photo: Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 08: (L-R) John DeLuca, Rob Marshall, Bob Iger, CEO, The Walt Disney Company, Halle Bailey and Alan Bergman, Co-Chairman, Disney Entertainment, attend the World Premiere of Disney’s live-action feature “The Little Mermaid” at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California on May 08, 2023. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)
Oscar® nominee Rob Marshall (“Chicago,” “Mary Poppins Returns”) takes the helm of this undersea adventure, accompanied by a screenplay from two-time Oscar nominee David Magee (“Life of Pi,” “Finding Neverland”). The unforgettable songs, composed by multiple Academy Award® winner Alan Menken (“Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin”) with lyrics by Howard Ashman and Lin-Manuel Miranda (“Hamilton,’ “In the Heights”). The film is produced by two-time Emmy® winner Marc Platt (“Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert,” “Grease Live!”), Miranda, two-time Emmy winner John DeLuca (“Tony Bennett: An American Classic”), and Rob Marshall, with Jeffrey Silver (“The Lion King”) serving as executive producer, are poised to get audiences singing along, just as they did with the beloved animated original.
Disney’s live-action reimagining of “The Little Mermaid” promises to bring a fresh tide of enchantment to the timeless tale, adding a new layer of depth to the magic of Disney storytelling. So, are you ready to dive back into the enchanting world of “The Little Mermaid”?
It’s that time of the week again! Another exciting week as a new batch of movies hits theaters this week. From spine-chilling horror to heartwarming romance, there’s a story for everyone. Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Let’s delve into the weekly roundup of new movies opening this week.
Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant follows US Army Sergeant John Kinley (Jake Gyllenhaal) and Afghan interpreter Ahmed (Dar Salim). After an ambush, Ahmed goes to Herculean lengths to save Kinley’s life. When Kinley learns that Ahmed and his family were not given safe passage to America as promised, he must repay his debt by returning to the war zone to retrieve them before the Taliban hunts them down first.
Horror fans, brace yourselves for “13 Exorcisms,” a chilling journey into the depths of demonic possession. This spine-tingling film follows a group of exorcists as they confront their most harrowing cases yet. Will their faith be enough to overcome the darkness? The suspense is palpable in this hair-raising cinematic experience.
Step into the ring with “Big George Foreman,” a gripping biopic that chronicles the life and career of the legendary boxing icon. Fueled by an impoverished childhood, George Foreman channeled his anger into becoming an Olympic Gold medalist and World Heavyweight Champion, followed by a near-death experience that took him from the boxing ring to the pulpit. But when he sees his community struggling spiritually and financially, Foreman returns to the ring and makes history by reclaiming his title, becoming the oldest and most improbable World Heavyweight Boxing Champion ever.This cinematic knockout delves deep into Foreman’s rise to fame, his battles inside and outside the ring, and his enduring impact on the world of sports.
The cult classic horror franchise returns with “Evil Dead Rise,” ready to unleash a new wave of terror upon unsuspecting audiences. This bone-chilling installment promises even more gore, suspense, and the iconic blend of humor and horror that fans have come to love. Will you be able to withstand the rise of the Evil Dead? Two sisters find an ancient vinyl that gives birth to bloodthirsty demons that run amok in a Los Angeles apartment building and thrusts them into a primal battle for survival as they face the most nightmarish version of family imaginable.
Mira Ray, dealing with the loss of her fiancé, sends a series of romantic texts to his old cell phone number…not realizing the number was reassigned to Rob Burns’ new work phone. A journalist, Rob is captivated by the honesty in the beautifully confessional texts. When he’s assigned to write a profile of megastar Celine Dion, he enlists her help in figuring out how to meet Mira in person and win her heart.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
In addition to these fresh releases, you can still catch some of the most popular films of recent weeks. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still playing in theaters:
There you have it! This week’s lineup offers a diverse range of cinematic treats to suit every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, chilling supernatural encounters, to the inspiring story of a legendary sports icon or a cozy love story, you’ll find it all at your local theater. Don’t miss your chance to catch these must-see flicks while they’re still showing, and remember to share the cinematic love with your friends and family. Have a great time at the movies!
It’s incredible how director and screenwriter James Gunn has managed to turn a relatively unfamiliar group like The Guardians of the Galaxy into a blockbuster franchise for the Marvel Cinematic Universe but he outdoes himself by delivering a third installment that is filled with so much heart amidst the chaotic mood of the narrative that all three ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ movies have become a testimony that comic book movies can be genuinely profound and explore authentic human truths while having a lot of crazy fun in the process. In ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3,’ Gunn manages to deliver a satisfying arc for all his main characters while also introducing some new faces.
‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’ underlines how each of the characters of this story are all broken and lost in relation to their idea of home. Banding together for support and safety and strength, the members of the Guardians of the Galaxy – Peter Quill, Nebula, Mantis, Drax, Rocket, Groot, and in the first two films Gamora – became a perfect example of the found family. Even the nature of the actual sibling relationship between Peter and Mantis (as explained in the Disney+ special ‘The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special’) and Nebula and Gamora becomes an interesting texture that becomes part of this tapestry of what the third film is all about.
Because when the Guardians end up battling Adam Warlock (Will Poulter) in Knowhere, Rocket is hurt badly and they discover they can’t heal him because of some sophisticated technology that is inside him that is preventing him from getting medical help. In order to save their friend, they must travel to find Rocket’s creator, The High Evolutionary.
At its core, ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’ is not some mission to save the universe. No, it’s a very simple and intimate story about a group of friends facing insurmountable odds to save one of their own from dying. What they end up discovering is that Rocket’s past, the one he has been keeping secret for the past two ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ movies and even in ‘The Avengers’ movies, is a dark history of pain and suffering at the hands of a megalomaniac known as The High Evolutionary (Chukwudi Iwuji), a powerful being who is determined to create a new species and society that would be a true utopia and he’s willing to commit genocide to ensure he gets it right.
With Rocket’s life hanging in the balance, every member is pushed to their utmost limits and this is where Gunn’s trademark genius comes into play. While the characters are stressed out and tense, they lash out at each other to highly comedic effect and while we are laughing, we are also seeing these characters unravel and show their true humanity (even if they are aliens). Chris Pratt’s Peter Quill is obsessed over Gamora desperately holding on to every vestige of his family that he can while Nebula, played brilliantly by Karen Gillan, is lashing out as we see the full force of her friendship with Rocket (that was explored during ‘Avengers: End Game’). Pom Klementieff is having a blast working out Mantis’ very wide spectrum of emotions. She’s frustrated that no one listens to her but manages to find time to play pranks on Drax or kicking butt when a fight ensues.
But the actors who really steal their scenes are Zoe Saldana, Chukwudi Iwuji, and Linda Cardellini. Saldana, who gets to play a different Gamora, which means she gets to really play as the outsider. In fact, she’s more like Nebula in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 1.’ That must have been fun for her. Chukwudi Iwuji was instructed to not play to any humanity in The High Evolutionary and creates a fantastic villain that is touted as one of the most vile by the internet. He manages to find degrees of madness within his character and creates great performances that never feel one-note. Cardellini does the voice acting for Layla, an otter who was one of Rocket’s early friends. The warmth and sweetness in her delivery of lines just completes the picture of Rocket’s past and is so instrumental to the climax of the film.
It’s quite amazing how amidst gorgeous space sequences that include the Guardians jumping out into space while wearing different coloured space suits, or a wonderfully choreographed fight scene in a corridor filled with bad guys, James Gunn deftly delivers incredible visuals, while cementing the importance of family. Throughout the film, the members of the Guardians of the Galaxy are getting on each other’s nerves. It makes no sense that they work so well together considering all of their very distinct personalities but they do because what Gunn and his cast manages to do is show how much these characters love each other and need each other.
So much so, that when the narrative begins to push each character to their conclusions – whatever they may be – there’s this feeling that it is inevitable for each of them. Scenes and moments from all their appearances in the MCU seem to push them to this particular end and what it highlights most of all is how important it is for each of us to find a place that we can call home.
Everyone gets a turn, a completed character arc, even characters like Kraglin (Sean Gunn) and Cosmo (Maria Bakalova) and new characters like Adam Warlock. No matter how big the film looks and feels, it still manages to feel intimate and personal because we are dealing with the deepest desires of our main characters: which is to find and protect their home.
Without another MCU movie to set up, by being its own film, ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’ is a fitting finale for these characters. There are still stories that can be told but even if the actors choose not to return, we can be very, very happy with how this story ended. And find great joy in watching all three volumes (and the holiday special) all over again for how wonderfully complete this whole set of films are.
Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to give more reasons to movie enthusiasts to experience and relish once again the joys of watching horror movies on the big screen with their own curation of film titles in the A-List Series. Coming this May 10 as part of it’s a-List Series is “Evil Dead Rise” from the iconic film franchise.
The films follow two sisters being reunited, Beth (played by Lilly Sullivan) visits her older sister Ellie (Alyssa Sutherland) living and raising her children alone in LA. Shortly upon Beth’s arrival, an earthquake popped open a hole in their garage that revealed the Book of the Dead and released evil spirits, ensuing a demonic possession of Ellie, resulting into carnage as she pursues her sister and children.
An appetite for serving up bloody frights reunites the producing team behind the original and successive “Evil Dead” films: producer Rob Tapert and executive producers Sam Raimi and Bruce Campbell. They are joined by accomplished filmmaker Lee Cronin to take the action to new places (and heights) with “Evil Dead Rise.” Since 1981, the cult classic “The Evil Dead” has spawned a long-lasting IP and a passionate fanbase that transcends generations. Planning to create an eagerly awaited new film in the franchise, Raimi met with studio executives in 2018 and pitched the idea of doing something new theatrically, leveraging the property while expanding the storytelling.
In keeping with “Evil Dead Rise” director’s (Lee Cronin) vision, Ayala Malls Cinemas lets the audience in an immersive ultimate fear experience as the family fights for survival against a demon-possessed mom turned into a non-stop killing machine.
As Lee Cronin is quick to bring horror back to the basics, he shares, “I hope audiences are going to love the horror, because first and foremost, when you make a horror movie, you want it to be scary and entertaining. I think moviegoers will enjoy the visual verve and restlessness of the movie when it really gets going, along with the fresh experience—this is very much an ‘Evil Dead’ movie, but it’s really in the here and now. And hopefully, it will be an entry point into an even greater ‘Evil Dead’ universe than the one we know to date. I think great horror is something that you watch and then it follows you home, when you turn the lights out. This really takes the horror home.”
You’ve been warned, with an R-18 rating by the local censors board with no cuts, the film’s irreplaceable experience of fear in horror on the big screen is heightened with Ayala Malls Cinemas’ up-to-date state-of-the-art cinema technology. Prepare to step into a riveting summer of thrills where the sights and sounds of horror are inescapable inside Ayala Malls Cinemas when “Evil Dead Rise” is finally unleashed on May 10.
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Book your “Evil Dead Rise” tickets for the big screen fear experience at these Ayala Malls Cinemas – Glorietta, Greenbelt 3, Circuit, Market!Market!, Bonifacio High Street, The 30th, Feliz, Fairview Terraces, TriNoma, Vertis North, Cloverleaf, Marquee, Harbor Point, Manila Bay, Alabang Town Center, Solenad, Legazpi, Ayala Center Cebu, Central Bloc, Abreeza, Centrio and Capitol Central.
