Tag: Now Showing in Cinemas

Magical Debut! “Wicked: For Good” Smashes Box Office Records with ₱163.5M 5-Day Run
It’s official — magic struck the big screen once again! Wicked: For Good soared past expectations, earning a jaw-dropping ₱163.5 million in its first 5 days in Philippine cinemas.

That box office number marks a 54% leap from the opening weekend of the original Wicked film, proving that Filipino fans are more enchanted than ever. Not only did it charm local audiences, but the Philippines also ranked 6th worldwidein international sales (outside the U.S.), showing global love for Oz’s most iconic witches.

What’s more? The film now holds the crown for Universal Pictures’ biggest 2025 opening, and their top weekend debut since 2018 — a truly wicked win.

Local Voices Shine in the “Awiting Wicked: For Good” Music Video

To celebrate the film’s local release, Universal Pictures PH launched a special musical tribute: the “Awiting Wicked: For Good” music video.

This heartfelt rendition of the beloved duet “For Good” features three standout Filipino singing duos:
- Fatima Soria & Pia Casing
- Jezza Quiogue & Nowi Alpuerto
- Kyle Quinco & Tiffany Vistal
Not only did these winners lend their beautiful voices to the track, but they also had the once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande — the stars behind Elphaba and Glinda — during the Singapore premiere!

Cameos from familiar local faces made the video even more magical, including:
- VJs Markki Stroem & Ai dela Cruz
- Drag icons Precious Paula Nicole & Brigiding
- Content creators Lenie Aycardo & Hajie Alejandro
Watch the Full Music Video here: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1805423456831618

The Number One Movie in the Country is Now Showing

Catch the film everyone’s spellbound by! Wicked: For Good is now showing in cinemas nationwide.

For the latest news and behind-the-scenes goodies, follow: Facebook: Universal Pictures PH, Instagram: @UniversalPicturesPH and TikTok: @UniversalPicsPH

About Wicked: For Good

“And now whatever way our stories end, I know you have rewritten mine by being my friend.”

The global phenomenon that enchanted audiences in 2024 returns with its emotional and epic finale: Wicked: For Good.

Directed once again by Jon M. Chu, the film reunites powerhouse leads Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, continuing the untold story of Glinda and Elphaba as they face the consequences of their fateful decisions.

Produced by acclaimed Broadway and Hollywood names Marc Platt p.g.a. and David Stone, the film is backed by executive producers Stephen Schwartz, Winnie Holzman, David Nicksay, Jared LeBoff, and Dana Fox.

The original Wicked film, released in November 2024, earned 10 Academy Award® nominations, including Best Picture, and won for Costume Design and Production Design — grossing over $750 million globally.

This final installment is based on the legendary stage musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, book by Winnie Holzman, and adapted from the bestselling novel by Gregory Maguire. The screenplay is by Holzman and Dana Fox, with a powerful score by John Powell & Stephen Schwartz.
November 25, 2025
Ayala Malls Cinemas Casts a Spell with “Wicked: For Good” Movie Experience and Limited-Edition Treats
A magical storm is brewing—and Ayala Malls Cinemas is at the heart of it. As Wicked: For Good flies into Philippine cinemas, fans are invited to step into a world of enchantment, friendship, and unforgettable cinematic flair.

The saga of Elphaba and Glinda reaches its grand finale with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande reprising their iconic roles, joined by a dazzling cast including Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, and Marissa Bode. Directed by the visionary Jon M. Chu, this chapter promises an emotional, visually spectacular ride you won’t want to miss.

A Spellbinding Cinema Experience Awaits

To mark this momentous release, Ayala Malls Cinemas has conjured a wickedly delightful movie experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Limited-Time Popcorn Flavors:

Step up to The Movie Snackbar and treat your tastebuds to two exclusive popcorn offerings:
- Pink Sweet Bubble Pop
- Green Emerald Nori Crunch
Each order comes in collectible “Wicked: For Good” tumblers, perfect for fans and first-timers alike.

Choose Your Magic Portal: 4DX, A-Giant & A-Luxe

Whether you want to soar, shimmer, or just sink into luxury, Ayala Malls Cinemas has a screening format fit for every kind of fan:
- 4DX Cinemas: Feel the wind, movement, and magic as if you’re flying through Oz yourself.
- A-Giant Cinemas: Witness larger-than-life storytelling on screens four times the size of a standard theater.
- A-Luxe Cinemas: Sit back and enjoy the comfort of plush, reclining seats paired with premium sound and projection.
Wherever you sit, you’re guaranteed a front-row seat to wonder.

Snap-Worthy Moments from the Land of Oz

Before the lights dim and the curtains rise, take a moment to strike a pose! Most Ayala Malls Cinemas are decked out with Wicked-themed backdrops perfect for Instagram-worthy shots. Whether you’re channeling your inner Glinda or rocking Elphaba vibes, it’s your time to sparkle.

Your Ticket to Oz

Wicked: For Good is now showing at select Ayala Malls Cinemas nationwide—including 4DX, A-Giant, and A-Luxe theaters. Book now at www.sureseats.com

Follow Ayala Malls Cinemas on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

About Wicked: For Good

The iconic story of the witches of Oz reaches its emotional crescendo in Wicked: For Good, the sequel to the 2024 global hit that soared to ten Academy Award® nominations and over $750 million at the box office.

With the return of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the film dives into the aftermath of the witches’ choices, revealing what becomes of Elphaba and Glinda when fate—and friendship—collide.

Helmed by director Jon M. Chu, and produced by Broadway titans Marc Platt and David Stone, the film draws from Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman’s beloved stage musical—based on Gregory Maguire’s bestselling novel. With music by John Powell and Stephen Schwartz, every moment is crafted to strike a chord and steal your heart.

Don’t Miss Out!

From immersive screenings to exclusive snacks and shareable moments, Ayala Malls Cinemas is turning this film release into an unforgettable event. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Oz or just discovering its magic, Wicked: For Good is your once-in-a-lifetime invitation to feel all the feels.

Follow the yellow brick road—your story begins now.
November 21, 2025
ABS-CBN Films’ “Meet, Greet & Bye” Hits P120M Global Box Office — And Counting!
ABS-CBN Films is celebrating a monumental achievement as its newest family drama Meet, Greet & Bye soars past P120 million in worldwide box office sales, marking one of the most powerful international performances for a local release this year.

Since its Philippine debut on November 12, the film has sparked emotional reactions and strong word-of-mouth, launching its global journey with a heartening message — family, dreams, and one last wish that crosses borders.

A Starry Cast, A Story That Resonates

Starring box-office giants Piolo Pascual, Joshua Garcia, Belle Mariano, Juan Karlos, and screen legend Maricel Soriano, the film is helmed by award-winning director Cathy Garcia-Sampana — the visionary behind the country’s all-time box office record-holder Hello, Love, Again.

The emotional narrative follows four siblings racing against time to fulfill their dying mother’s final wish: to meet her K-drama idol Park Seo-Joon. It’s a story of laughter, longing, and the lengths we go for love.

From Manila to the World: A Widening Release

Meet, Greet & Bye didn’t just win hearts locally — it launched an ambitious and fast-tracked international rollout that continues to expand. Here’s how the film’s global reach is shaping up:
- November 13: Opened in Australia, New Zealand, and key markets across the Middle East
- November 14: Debuted in USA, Canada, and Guam
- Over the weekend: Premiered in UK, Ireland, Austria, Italy, and France
Upcoming international releases:
- Papua New Guinea – November 20
- Greece – November 22
- Spain – November 23
A Film That Connects Across Cultures

The magic of Meet, Greet & Bye lies in its universal theme — the bonds between family members and the beautiful chaos of fulfilling a shared dream. It’s the kind of story that transcends language and geography, pulling at heartstrings from Manila to Madrid.

Catch the Film That Everyone’s Talking About

Don’t miss out on this cinematic gem that’s charming audiences around the world. For the latest international screening schedules, visit meetgreetandbye.com.

For behind-the-scenes content, exclusive cast features, and ongoing updates, follow Star Cinema on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter).
November 20, 2025
Jennifer Lopez Shines in “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” Now Showing Exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas

Ayala Malls Cinemas proudly unveils Kiss of the Spider Woman, an exclusive theatrical release in the Philippines that brings music, drama, and political tension to the big screen. The film, a bold reimagining of the Tony Award®-winning musical and the acclaimed novel by Manuel Puig, stars global icon Jennifer Lopez, alongside Diego Luna and Tonatiuh, in a story that’s as powerful as it is poignant.

Directed by Academy Award® winner Bill Condon (Dreamgirls, Beauty and the Beast, Chicago), this visually stunning and emotionally charged film is now showing only at Ayala Malls Cinemas across the country.

A Story of Resistance, Connection, and Fantasy

Set in the shadow of Argentina’s oppressive 1983 dictatorship, Kiss of the Spider Woman explores the unlikely bond between two prisoners — political activist Valentín (Diego Luna) and queer window dresser Molina (Tonatiuh). Trapped in a tiny cell, the two clash, connect, and slowly open up to each other, with Molina finding escape through tales of his favorite old Hollywood fantasy: a musical starring the enchanting screen siren Ingrid Luna (Jennifer Lopez).

In a vibrant parallel narrative, Lopez commands the screen as the titular Spider Woman — a mysterious, glamorous figure whose kiss is both beautiful and deadly. Through rich musical sequences, Molina’s fantasy becomes a lifeline for both men, blurring the line between reality and illusion.

Watch the Trailer Here:

A Dream Cast in a Dream World

Lopez brings star power and emotional gravitas to the dual role of screen diva and metaphorical reaper. Diego Luna delivers a nuanced, layered performance as Valentín, while Tonatiuh’s turn as Molina has critics buzzing about a breakout moment.

“Lopez struts and vamps like an A-list champ, Diego Luna oozes gravitas, but everybody – and hopefully some Oscar voters – will remember this “Kiss” as a star-making turn for the fabulous Tonatiuh.”

A Director’s Vision for the Big Screen

With a resume full of musical masterpieces, director q injects Kiss of the Spider Woman with theatrical flair and cinematic urgency.

“Musicals have been having a resurgence since they were first declared dead in 1931,” said Condon, “I think they’ve been resuscitated more often than Dracula. One of the reasons the genre always bounces back is that, as with suspense and horror, musicals are enhanced by the communal experience. In recent years we’ve been searching for reasons to go back to the theater, and musicals, when they work, give you that extra jolt of pleasure.”

From dramatic prison scenes to surreal, glittering showtunes, every frame of the film is designed to captivate — and demands to be seen on a big screen.

Critics Are Caught in the Web

“It’s easy to get caught in the web of ‘Kiss of the Spider Woman,’” said Movieweb in its review.

“‘Kiss of the Spider Woman’ is astounding,” The Film Maven lauded the new adaptation in her review. “If you aren’t a musical fan, will you be in hell? Probably. But for those who enjoy a sweeping musical story, or for lovers of Old Hollywood, you’ll be in Heaven for the next two hours.”

Visually stunning, emotionally resonant, and musically adventurous — this is no ordinary adaptation. It’s a full-body experience made for movie lovers.

Ayala Malls Cinemas: The Home of Prestige Films

Known for its commitment to quality cinema, Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to champion critically acclaimed, artistic films that can’t be found in mainstream releases. With its exclusive showing of Kiss of the Spider Woman, Ayala Malls Cinemas once again proves it’s the destination of choice for those seeking world-class cinematic experiences.

Enjoy this film in comfort with plush seating, immersive sound, and updated screening technology — plus delicious treats from The Movie Snackbar. Booking is easy via www.SureSeats.com or at www.ClickTheCity.com.

Now Showing — Don’t Miss This Cinematic Masterpiece

Whether you’re a fan of musicals, historical dramas, or just powerful storytelling, Kiss of the Spider Woman is a film that demands to be seen. Don’t miss your chance to watch Jennifer Lopez and an outstanding cast bring this iconic story to life — exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas.

Follow: @AyalaMallsCinemas on Facebook and Instagram.

October 17, 2025
Mason Thames and Madeleine McGraw Face The Grabber Again in “Black Phone 2″— Now Showing in Cinemas

The Nightmare Isn’t Over: Black Phone 2 Hits Philippine Cinemas

The shadows are back, and so are the voices. Black Phone 2, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2021 horror hit, is now showing in Philippine cinemas. With Mason Thames and Madeleine McGraw reprising their roles as Finn and Gwen, the film delves into the psychological scars left behind by a serial killer who refuses to stay dead.

Four Years Later: Finn Can’t Escape the Past

In Black Phone 2, Finn has grown older, but the trauma of surviving The Grabber lingers. Mason Thames portrays a darker, more complex version of Finn—one who’s weighed down by memories he can’t shake and a fear he struggles to silence.

“Finn went through something horrific, and while he came out of it strong, the weight of what happened has not left him,” writer-producer C. Robert Cargill says. “He is haunted by the Grabber. He sees him everywhere, and he is using drugs to try to numb the fear. He wants nothing to do with the spirits, with the phone, with any of it. He is trying to shut it all out and live in denial. So, as Gwen starts uncovering this new mystery, Finn is doing everything he can to stay out of it. But of course, life does not let you run forever. Eventually, he will have to face what he has been avoiding.”

Finn wants nothing to do with the black phone or the spirits that once helped him escape. He is living in denial, doing all he can to block out the past. But as Gwen begins to uncover new supernatural clues, Finn realizes that running from the truth won’t save him forever.

Gwen’s Visions Reveal a Terrifying New Mystery

Gwen, played once again by Madeleine McGraw, is no longer the bold and fiery girl we met in the first film. After surviving The Grabber, she is now withdrawn, overwhelmed by visions of a sinister snow-covered camp and three boys being hunted by a familiar evil.

“In the first film, we hinted that the kids inherited different parts of their mother’s abilities of speaking with the dead and having prophetic dreams,” writer-producer C. Robert Cargill says. “Gwen got the dream side of it. She can glimpse the future and communicate with the dead through her dreams. Finn, meanwhile, has the ability to hear the dead through the phone, but in this film, he is trying to shut it all out. He is numbing himself and refusing to engage with his ability, but Gwen is embracing hers. She is exploring it, evolving and growing stronger. By the end, she is not just receiving messages, she’s communicating back, asking questions, controlling her dreams, even interacting with spirits inside them.”

Unlike Finn, Gwen is embracing her powers, learning to ask questions in her dreams, decipher messages, and interact with the spirits reaching out to her. Her arc in the film charts the growth of a once-spirited girl learning to carry the burden of her gift—and use it to stop the cycle of violence.

The Grabber’s Revenge From Beyond the Grave

Death was not the end for The Grabber. In Black Phone 2, the killer’s influence has only grown stronger. Gwen’s visions hint at his return, stalking new victims from beyond, as the line between the living and the dead begins to blur.

The siblings must confront the growing threat, with Gwen trying to piece together the puzzle, while Finn resists stepping back into the darkness. But as the danger closes in, they realize the only way out is through.

Returning Stars Deliver Deeper Performances

For Mason Thames, portraying Finn this time around meant digging into a character who has been carrying unspoken rage and trauma for years.

“In this film, we see that Finn has changed,” Thames says. “He has been holding all this anger inside, and he is not the same kid we met in the first movie. Back then, he was already complex, but now he is even more layered. Instead of facing his trauma, he smokes weed to cope. The moment he feels any of that PTSD creeping in, he shuts it out. This film becomes a question of whether he is ready to confront the Grabber again or keep running from him.”

Meanwhile, McGraw approached Gwen’s transformation with intention, taking on a more emotionally layered version of the character.

“One of the most exciting parts of this film was exploring Gwen’s dreams and how much she has changed,” McGraw says. “In the first movie, she was fiery and fearless. Now she feels like an outcast. She is beaten down, getting bullied at school and carrying a lot of pain. It was harder to get into her head this time. In the first film, our personalities were alike. Now, we are kind of opposites. She has become quiet and introverted, and I am more extroverted. But that made it even more interesting to explore who she is becoming.”

Watch the Official Trailer

Catch a glimpse of the nightmare that awaits. Watch the Black Phone 2 official trailer here:

Now Showing in Philippine Cinemas

Black Phone 2 is now showing in theaters across the Philippines. Prepare for a darker, more intense return to the world of The Grabber—where trauma speaks louder than screams, and the past refuses to stay buried. Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.

Follow Universal Pictures Philippines for updates: Facebook: Universal Pictures PH, Instagram: @UniversalPicturesPH, TikTok: @UniversalPicsPH

October 16, 2025
“One Battle After Another” Producer Highlights the Powerhouse Cast, Now Showing in Cinemas

A Story Forged in Collaboration

For writer, director, and producer Paul Thomas Anderson, the heartbeat of any film lies in the people behind it. His latest work, One Battle After Another, currently boasting a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, is a testament to this philosophy.

“The collaboration is the best part of making a movie,” says Paul Thomas Anderson, writer/director/producer of “One Battle After Another,” The camaraderie that you feel with the people that you’re collaborating with, the trust that you put in them, the way you admire and hold each other up when you’re tired or need support. It’s a team sport for sure, and I’m surrounded by people who I just love, that is a family. It’s the foundation of everything.”

A Radical Past and a High-Stakes Present

One Battle After Another follows a once-feared revolutionary, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, who now lives in a haze of paranoia and marijuana smoke with his fiercely independent daughter Willa (Chase Infiniti). Off-grid and emotionally unmoored, his world shatters when his long-lost nemesis (Sean Penn) resurfaces, and Willa disappears. What follows is a tense, emotional search that forces father and daughter to confront the wreckage of the past.

Watch the Trailer Here:

Meet the Cast: A Collection of Cinematic Powerhouses

The film’s ensemble includes a blend of A-list legends and fresh talent—Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Benicio Del Toro, Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor, and newcomer Chase Infiniti—all of whom are being praised for their performances.

Leonardo DiCaprio Brings Raw Humor and Humanity

According to producer Sara Murphy, DiCaprio embraced a character unlike any he’s played before.

“I think the comedy in Leo’s character comes from him having to sort of step outside of himself,” says Murphy. “He is a little bit settled in his ways and a little bit slower than his feet need him to be, in a way that he’s going to have to shake off in order to actually proceed. Also, his interactions along the way take him on an odyssey of sorts, in terms of how people are going to help him and influence him, so Leo had an opportunity for incredible physical comedy in this.”

Sean Penn Delivers a “Bonkers” Performance

As Lockjaw, the villainous force that haunts the film, Sean Penn is both unhinged and heartbreakingly human.

“I think this character, Lockjaw, is particularly bonkers, and Sean does not hold back,” Murphy shares. “I think it’s one of the greatest characters I’ve ever seen him play, and I’m the biggest Sean Penn fan of all time. He just really goes for it, but also delivers deep humanity at the same time as being an incredible villain.”

Benicio Del Toro: The Calm Within the Storm

Benicio Del Toro plays Bob, Willa’s enigmatic Sensei. He and Anderson collaborated on the character’s development during filming.

“Benicio is always the coolest guy in the room,” Murphy notes. “He brings that magnetic calmness to Bob. There’s history between him and Paul, and it shows in the depth of his role.”

Teyana Taylor and Regina Hall Steal Scenes with Strength and Subtlety

Regina Hall plays Deandra, a stabilizing force throughout the story.

“Regina Hall’s character, Deandra, is sort of the rock for everyone throughout the film,” says Murphy. “She is loyal, she’s steady, she’s dependable. She’s right all of the time. And Regina Hall is an incredible actor. We’ve mostly seen her do comedic roles, but I think she brings stability to the movie as Deandra. I love seeing her in a more dramatic role because she can really carry it, and she carries a lot in this particular movie.”

Regina Hall herself praises the world Anderson has created.

“I always love the worlds that Paul creates, I love the characters, I love how stories converge,” says Hall, whose portrayal of Deandra in the film has become an early Oscar favorite. “And I love his storytelling through the way he uses the camera. His filmmaking is equally a part of the storytelling. So I was just really excited to be a part of anything that he worked on, and with such an incredible cast.”

As for Teyana Taylor’s role as Perfidia Beverly Hills, Hall describes her as a vibrant contrast to Deandra.

“Perfidia Beverly Hills is played by Teyana Taylor very deliciously,” says Hall. “[My character] Deandra and Perfidia are close, and Perfidia lives in the moment. She’s complex and impassioned and is the strength and the rebellion of the French 75.”

A New Star Emerges: Chase Infiniti as Willa

While the cast is packed with heavyweights, newcomer Chase Infiniti is quickly becoming the breakout name to watch.

“I’m so excited for everyone to get to see Chase Infiniti’s performance, she’s every bit delightful,” Hall shares about newcomer Infiniti. “She really showed up from day one, and it wasn’t easy. She has some rough scenes, some rough days, some rough shooting. But she was always just going with the flow and amazing. I can’t imagine my first film – my first movie ever – being with Sean Penn, Leonardo DiCaprio, Benicio Del Toro, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, and I just show up. That’s impressive.”

In Cinemas Now — A Film Worth Experiencing

One Battle After Another is more than a thriller—it’s an intimate exploration of fractured relationships, forgotten battles, and fragile hope. With direction by Paul Thomas Anderson and distribution by Warner Bros. Pictures, it’s a film that lingers long after the credits roll.

Warner Bros. Pictures presents a Ghoulardi Film Company production, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson.

Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”}

September 26, 2025
“Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie” Brings Big-Screen Magic to Ayala Malls Cinemas — Now Showing Nationwide
A Magical First for Gabby and the Gabby Cats

Straight from the hit streaming series, Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie takes a leap from your screens to cinemas in this delightful feature film. Young audiences will be thrilled as Gabby (played by Laila Lockhart Kraner) embarks on her biggest adventure yet — and this time, it’s larger than life.

Joining Gabby on her journey is none other than Grammy Award winner Gloria Estefan, voicing Grandma Gigi. The duo heads to the whimsical city of Cat Francisco, but their fun is cut short when Gabby’s treasured dollhouse is stolen by a quirky cat lady named Vera (brought to life by Academy Award nominee Kristen Wiig).

Now, it’s up to Gabby to reunite the Gabby Cats and rescue her magical dollhouse — and she needs you along for the ride!

The Best Place to Watch? Ayala Malls Cinemas, of Course!

Movie time becomes memory time at Ayala Malls Cinemas, where every detail is designed to delight. Whether it’s a weekend family date, a first-time movie outing for little ones, or simply a joyful return to the theaters, Ayala Malls has the magic formula.

A-Giant Screens, A-Luxe Seats
- Want to feel like you’re inside the dollhouse?
  Check out A-Giant — with screens four times larger than standard, it’s movie immersion like never before.
- Prefer plush and posh? Try A-Luxe, where buttery-soft recliners, personal legroom, and refined interiors elevate every viewing.
Technology That Wows

From laser-sharp projectors to Dolby Atmos surround sound, each theater is packed with the latest cinema innovations — so every meow, giggle, and song comes through crystal clear.

Snacks, Surprises, and Gabby Goodies

No movie day is complete without snacks!
- Drop by the Movie Snackbar for drinks, bites, and all-time faves.
- And here’s a treat: select Ayala Malls Cinemas with a Move Snackbar offer FREE popcorn!
- For superfans, themed Gabby’s Dollhouse tumblers are also available — the cutest way to sip during the show.
How to Watch Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie

Ready for an enchanting movie day? Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie is now showing at Ayala Malls Cinemas nationwide.

Book your tickets online at www.sureseats.com or at www.ClickTheCity.com.

Follow Ayala Malls Cinemas on Facebook and Instagram for schedules, promos, and fan moments.

Final Thought: Make It a Family Movie to Remember

From colorful characters to heartwarming messages, Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie is packed with fun, friendship, and feline flair. Treat your little ones to their new favorite film — and create magical memories while you’re at it.

Don’t miss this big screen adventure. Catch it at your nearest Ayala Malls Cinema today!
September 24, 2025
Zoë Kravitz Shines with Austin Butler in Electrifying Crime Thriller “Caught Stealing” — Now Showing in Cinemas

Love, Crime, and One Seriously Unlucky Cat

Step aside, ordinary thrillers — Darren Aronofsky’s Caught Stealing is rewriting the rules with a wild blend of gritty suspense and irresistible romance. And at the heart of it all? Zoë Kravitz, turning up the heat as Yvonne, a tough-yet-tender EMT caught in a maelstrom of violence, love, and mystery.

Now showing in Philippine cinemas, this crime drama is anything but predictable.

Kravitz & Butler = Instant On-Screen Spark

According to director Darren Aronofsky, the real engine behind Caught Stealing is the blazing chemistry between Zoë Kravitz and Austin Butler, who plays Hank Thompson, a down-on-his-luck ex-baseball player pulled into a criminal nightmare.

“They have a very exciting passionate love affair that feels like it’s about to get to a more serious place.”

Indeed, there’s an undeniable magnetism between Kravitz and Butler — their on-screen connection pulses with heat and authenticity, grounding the high-stakes action with emotional grit.

Meet Yvonne: EMT by Day, Hank’s Lifeline by Night

Kravitz’s Yvonne isn’t just a love interest — she’s the emotional anchor in a story that could’ve easily spiraled into pure chaos. Grounded yet complex, Yvonne is someone who deeply cares, even when the world around her starts to burn.

“Yvonne’s an empathetic person,” Kravitz says. “I think she likes to take care of people, including Hank. She doesn’t do the best job, but she tries.”

That humanity is what elevates Yvonne from being just a sidekick. She’s a flawed, fascinating, and fiercely loyal survivor — and Kravitz plays her with nuance and fire.

Watch the Trailer Here:

From Cat-Sitting to Complete Mayhem

So how does a romance between a former ballplayer and an EMT morph into a full-blown cat-and-mouse chase with gangsters? It all begins when Hank’s shady neighbor Russ (played with eerie charm by Matt Smith) asks him to watch his cat. A simple favor — until everything unravels.

Before long, Hank and Yvonne are neck-deep in NYC’s criminal underworld, running for their lives and trying to figure out why dangerous people want Hank dead.

A Cast That Packs a Punch

Besides the dynamic duo of Kravitz and Butler, Caught Stealing boasts a powerhouse cast including Matt Smith and the ever-commanding Regina King. And the brains behind the screenplay? None other than Charlie Huston, adapting his own cult-favorite novel.

“I wrote this book decades ago, and now I’m making a movie with Darren Aronofsky and Austin Butler and Matt Smith and Regina King and Zoë Kravitz,” they say. “It’s so amazing. Darren and I were both living in the East Village in the 90s, and our paths must have crossed at some point. When I first moved to New York, I was couch-surfing and living next door to where he was living at the time, so part of the joy of this project is just the shared lived experience and authenticity of that. To be able to look back and revisit that period of our lives is just fun.”

The film’s gritty tone is steeped in personal nostalgia. Both Huston and Aronofsky once lived in New York’s East Village during the ’90s, and that raw, lived-in energy pulses through every frame of the film.

Now Showing: A Must-See Ride of Love and Survival

With its genre-bending thrills, simmering romance, and unforgettable performances, Caught Stealing is a cinematic adrenaline shot — and Zoë Kravitz is its beating heart.

Now showing in cinemas across the Philippines. Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.

Grab your tickets, bring your heart rate monitors, and prepare for a thriller that doesn’t let go.

September 10, 2025
“The Conjuring: Last Rites” Shatters Box Office Records in the Philippines — Sets Historic Opening for a Horror Film

The devil works hard, but Filipino horror fans work harder.

In a jaw-dropping start to its theatrical run, The Conjuring: Last Rites has obliterated local box office expectations — claiming the crown for the biggest opening day for a horror movie in Philippine history, and breaking records for the highest-grossing midnight screening ever in the country.

On September 3, audiences across the Philippines flooded cinemas at exactly 12:00 AM — sacrificing sleep for screams — as they witnessed the haunting final chapter of Ed and Lorraine Warren’s journey on the big screen.

A Box Office Spectacle Like No Other

Let the numbers speak: Last Rites, rated R-16, is now officially the highest-grossing R-16 opening in the Philippines, toppling the previous record set by Final Destination: Bloodlines. Even more impressive? It currently holds the second-highest opening day for any film released in 2025 — across all genres.

Not bad for a pair of ghost hunters saying their last goodbye.

The Final Case: Ed and Lorraine’s Swan Song

The Conjuring: Last Rites marks the ninth — and final — installment in the $2 billion global horror juggernaut known as the Conjuring Universe. Once again directed by Michael Chaves, with horror masters James Wan and Peter Safranproducing, the film brings real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren back to the screen one last time — portrayed by fan-favorite duo Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga.

Brimming with chilling set pieces, emotional callbacks, and edge-of-your-seat suspense, this cinematic finale is everything fans hoped it would be… and then some.

Watch the Trailer Here:

What the Creators Are Saying

James Wan, who helped launch the franchise with the original The Conjuring films, credits the series’ success to the magic between Wilson and Farmiga. “Vera and Patrick have always been the center of these movies,” says Wan, who directed “The Conjuring” 1 and 2, and has been a producer since the second film in the universe. “They have such a great relationship, onscreen and off – they’re such good friends. I think that really comes across and the audience sees how authentic it is… I have always said, ‘They come for the fright and the scares, but they really stick around for Vera and Patrick.’”

Producer Peter Safran echoes the sentiment. “I think the success of the universe has really hinged on the Warrens as a family. That’s why people keep coming back to see the next adventure, the next investigation, the next stage in their lives – it’s because they’ve fallen in love with Ed and Lorraine as portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga.”

Director Michael Chaves adds, “Vera and Patrick have always been our secret weapon. They’re the heart and soul of these films, and it’s their talent and who they are as people that have shaped these movies from the start.”

Nostalgia, Terror, and One Last Scare

For the stars themselves, saying goodbye wasn’t easy.

Patrick Wilson, who’s donned Ed Warren’s suit and cross for over a decade, shared his gratitude: “Going back to the first film, I remember thinking, ‘What a gift to be able to do this.’”

Meanwhile, Vera Farmiga reflected on the legacy: “It’s been really fun to grow up through the decades and explore all these sensational cases,” she shares, but adds: “This story is the last act for these two.”

Say Goodbye While You Still Can

This isn’t just a movie — it’s the end of an era. The Conjuring: Last Rites gives fans the closure they didn’t know they needed and delivers one last haunting, heart-wrenching ride through the supernatural.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or a thrill-seeker looking for the scare of the season, this is your moment.

Experience the final case. Watch “The Conjuring: Last Rites” — now showing in cinemas nationwide. Distributed locally by Warner Bros. Philippines. check showtimes and buy your tickets here.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”}

September 4, 2025
“It’s Funny, Aggressive, Driving, and Surprisingly Heartwarming”—Brad Pitt on “F1 The Movie,” Now Roaring in Cinemas!

Hollywood icon Brad Pitt calls it “the most visceral driving experience that’s ever been put on film.”—and it’s finally here. F1 The Movie is now showing in cinemas, delivering high-speed action, big heart, and pure adrenaline on the big screen.

“I Still Don’t Know How We Got Away With It,” Says Brad Pitt

Oscar winner Brad Pitt still sounds amazed when he talks about how he and his team pulled off F1 The Movie. Teaming up with legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer and visionary director Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick), Pitt reveals they did something few believed possible: put real actors in real Formula 1 race cars—and filmed them at full-throttle speeds.

“The forces in these cars – the high-speed corners – the physics of it all want to rip your head from your shoulders. It’s shocking what these cars can do – and it’s a high unlike any high I’ve ever experienced before. We just couldn’t capture it any other way.”

A Comeback Story on the Fastest Stage in the World

In F1 The Movie, Pitt plays Sonny Hayes, once dubbed “the greatest that never was.” A promising Formula 1 star of the 1990s, Sonny’s dream career nearly ended after a devastating accident on the track. Thirty years later, Sonny lives as a nomadic racer-for-hire—until fate, and an old friend, call him back to the sport that once defined him.

That friend? Ruben Cervantes, played by Oscar winner Javier Bardem, owner of a struggling Formula 1 team teetering on collapse. With no other options, Ruben convinces Sonny to return to the high-octane world of F1 for one last shot at redemption—and to help save the team from disappearing entirely.

But Sonny’s not alone on the grid. Enter Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris), the team’s hotshot rookie determined to carve out his own legacy. As engines roar and rivalries heat up, Sonny must confront his past, his fiercest competition—and the idea that in Formula 1, your teammate might just be your biggest threat.

Watch the F1 The Movie Trailer:

For Die-Hard Fans… and Total Newbies Alike

What makes F1 The Movie so gripping? According to Pitt, it strikes a rare balance:

“Threading that needle was the biggest challenge, but I think we’ve done that – made it enlightening enough and understandable for newcomers without dumbing it down for ultra fans. It’s funny, it’s aggressive, it’s driving, and it’s surprisingly heartwarming. I love all these characters. I think this film is so damn entertaining on so many levels.”

The Origins: When Top Gun: Maverick Met Formula 1

The high-speed magic of F1 The Movie started with two things: the global success of Drive to Survive, Netflix’s F1 docuseries, and an unexpected email to a living racing legend.

Director Joseph Kosinski recalls, “I was hooked on Drive to Survive, but what struck me most was the story of the teams fighting at the back of the pack—the underdogs trying just to survive. That’s where I knew there was a film.”

Kosinski also had a connection: Formula 1 superstar Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion and global icon. “I happen to have the email of Lewis Hamilton,” he says. Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, a legendary figure who inspires on the track and off, had briefly considered taking a role in “Top Gun: Maverick.” “I sent an email to Lewis just saying, ‘I want to make a film in this world. I want it to be the most authentic racing film ever. Would you be interested in helping me to do that?’ And he said yes.”

Lewis Hamilton: Driving the Film’s Authenticity

For Hamilton, it was all about keeping it real. “From the beginning, Joe and Jerry talked about how important the authenticity is,” recalls Hamilton, “not only for the new fans that we’ll gain from this movie, but for old fans, like myself, who have grown up with it since we were walking. The focus has been to make sure that it is as authentic a racing movie has ever been.”

With Hamilton’s seal of approval—and guidance—the production team was literally off to the races, embedding themselves into the global F1 circuit to film at actual events, with real cars, at heart-pounding speeds.

Buckle Up—F1 The Movie is Now Showing!

Experience the speed, the heart, and the unfiltered adrenaline of Formula 1 like never before. Feel the roar of the engines, the grit of the track, and the raw human drama behind every lap.

F1 The Movie is now showing in cinemas and distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures PH. Don’t miss the most entertaining, high-speed film event of the year. Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”}

June 25, 2025