Tag: Now Showing in Cinemas

5 Reasons Why “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” Is a Must-Watch, Now Showing in Cinemas

Get ready to rev up your excitement, Sonic fans! Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has finally arrived in Philippine cinemas. After a stellar reception internationally over the holidays, this latest installment is stealing hearts (and chaos emeralds!) with a remarkable 96% audience score and 87% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes—the highest for the series yet.

Featuring a star-studded cast including Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, Idris Elba, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, and the legendary Keanu Reeves, this movie has plenty to keep you on the edge of your seat. Here are five reasons why this blockbuster is an absolute must-watch.

_{Team Sonic}

1. Team Sonic Is Back (and Better Than Ever!)

The beloved trio—Sonic (voiced by Ben Schwartz), Knuckles (Idris Elba), and Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey)—returns for their most challenging adventure yet. This time, they’re not just fighting foes; they’re facing new responsibilities that push their teamwork to its limits.

The dynamic personalities of Team Sonic guarantee plenty of laughs, heartfelt moments, and action-packed teamwork that fans adore. Sonic’s journey from an alien outsider to a true hero is inspiring, making his character more relatable than ever.

_{Keanu Reeves as Shadow}

2. Keanu Reeves Joins the Fun as Shadow

Fans of the Sonic games know that Shadow is no ordinary villain. “Shadow was introduced in a game called ‘Sonic Adventure 2,’” notes director Jeff Fowler of the movie’s new antagonist. “He quickly became every bit as popular as Sonic. He’s stronger than Knuckles, and faster than Sonic. That sets the table for an amazing rivalry.”

With Keanu Reeves lending his voice to the fan-favorite character, the director couldn’t have said it better: “It is a perfect match. Shadow is John Wick in hedgehog form, which is a total contrast with Sonic.”

_{Jim Carrey as Gerald and Ivo Robotnik}

3. Jim Carrey Pulls Double Duty as Two Robotniks

Jim Carrey is back as the eccentric Dr. Ivo Robotnik, but that’s not all. He also takes on the role of Robotnik’s equally treacherous grandfather, Gerald Robotnik. Watching Carrey seamlessly switch between these two characters is nothing short of mesmerizing.

According to producer Neal Moritz, “It’s one of the most special parts of the movie,” says producer Neal Moritz. “When I watch the two of him in scenes together, I literally feel like I’m watching two different people.”

4. Jaw-Dropping Action Sequences

What happens when you pit Team Sonic against a foe stronger than Knuckles and faster than Sonic? Non-stop, edge-of-your-seat action! From high-speed chases to interstellar battles, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 takes the stakes—and the spectacle—to a whole new level.

An antagonist that’s faster than Sonic and stronger than Knuckles, and assisted by not one but two Robotniks. Super-powered action sequences. Fights in outer space. “With each film, we want to raise the bar on spectacle and action set-pieces that really live up to what the games have established,” says Fowler. “We will always stay faithful to the things fans love, though, because they are the reason we’re here today.”

The films, which combine animation and live-action, have one significant advantage over pure live-action, according to co-writer Pat Casey. “We can go so big,” he explains. “In live-action, if you want a helicopter crash, the producers might say we can’t afford that. But on this movie, we could do anything, including blow up the moon! Jeff’s a visual genius so we can be sure that whatever we write, he will make it look awesome. We decided to send Sonic not just around the world but into space. The things that happen would be impossible in a live-action movie, but thanks to the genius of visual effects, Jeff, and a talented stunt team, it came out great.”

Adds Carrey, “This thing is so huge, you won’t believe it’s about a hedgehog. But you can’t argue with the fan base. If it’s hedgehogs they want, it’s hedgehogs they’ll get.”

5. A Perfect Blend of Humor and Heart

Co-writer Josh Miller describes the Sonic films as “A sweet spot that blends them both is always on our minds when we get together with Jeff and the producers to plan a new story,” he says. “Anthropomorphic animals lend themselves to humor, but we have to make the jokes good while still taking the story seriously. It’s important to find ways to have big, exciting, colorful action equal to what you see in big special effects movies — but always hang on to that inherent silliness.”

Even as they battle Shadow, Team Sonic’s lighthearted banter and emotional growth make this movie more than just a thrill ride—it’s an unforgettable experience.

Catch Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Now!

With its perfect mix of action, humor, and heart, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is a cinematic thrill ride that fans of all ages will enjoy. Don’t miss out—head to your nearest cinema and join the adventure today.

Share your thoughts with the hashtag #SonicMovie3 and tag @paramountpicsph to join the global conversation!

About Sonic the Hedgehog 3

A Paramount Pictures production in association with SEGA Sammy Group. Directed by Jeff Fowler. Starring Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, Idris Elba, Keanu Reeves, and more.

_{Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”}

January 16, 2025
“Wolf Man”: A Gripping Tribute to Classic Monsters and Bone-Chilling Body Horror
Experience the fear and transformation as “Wolf Man” pays homage to the golden age of monsters, blending practical effects with a chilling tale of survival.

A Monster Reborn: Honoring Horror Classics

Director Leigh Whannell breathes new life into the iconic “Wolf Man” with a tribute to the classic Universal monsters. Inspired by the artistry behind Boris Karloff’s Frankenstein and Lon Chaney Jr.’s Wolf Man, Whannell states, “If you think about that look that was created for Boris Karloff’s Frankenstein in 1931 or Lon Chaney’s Wolf Man in 1941, those were things that audiences had never seen,” Whannell says. “Those images have lasted because they’re so striking. Anybody dealing with monsters today lives in the shadow of these artists. Every makeup artist whose name is etched into the Hall of Fame—from Rick Baker and Rob Bottin to Stan Winston and Jack Pierce, all these artists have created something brilliant that sticks in your mind.”

The Story of the Lovells: A Family in Peril

Set against the eerie backdrop of rural Oregon, “Wolf Man” follows the Lovell family as their patriarch, Blake (played by Golden Globe nominee Christopher Abbott), transforms into a creature of legend. As Blake succumbs to his monstrous instincts, his wife Charlotte (Emmy winner Julia Garner) and daughter Ginger (Matilda Firth) fight for survival. But can they endure both the creature outside and the horror within?

Blake’s transformation is not only physical but deeply emotional, illustrating the terror of losing one’s humanity. Whannell’s focus on body horror shines as Blake’s skin morphs, his senses distort, and his humanity fades. “Blake loses his ability to understand what human beings are saying,” Whannell says. “Blake’s vision changes, then the physical changes begin, and his vision begins to alter. His skin morphs: his fingernails and teeth come out. It’s a tribute to body horror. That’s one of the great sub-genres of horror that I love. Our bodies are the source of all our pain, as well as our joy.”

A Practical Effects Showcase

Whannell’s passion for 80s horror cinema permeates the film, emphasizing practical effects over CGI for a tactile and immersive experience. Inspired by classics like The Thing and The Fly, the director explains, “When you’re working in supernatural horror, a lot of the horror is implied,” Whannell says. “It’s what you can’t see that’s scary. I wanted to make my own version of a creature feature. This film is my tribute to the ‘80s movies I loved growing up—ones that were driven by practical effects and told horror stories that were creative in their use of bodily morphing. In The Thing and The Fly, CGI was not yet an option.”

From elongated limbs to agonizing transformations, “Wolf Man” delivers a visual feast that honors the craftsmanship of past monster films while pushing the genre forward.

Meet the Cast and Crew Behind the Terror

“Wolf Man” boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including:
- Christopher Abbott (Poor Things, It Comes at Night) as Blake
- Julia Garner (Ozark, Inventing Anna) as Charlotte
- Matilda Firth (Hullraisers, Coma) as Ginger
Supporting roles feature talents like Sam Jaeger (The Handmaid’s Tale) and Benedict Hardie (The Invisible Man). Behind the scenes, Leigh Whannell teams up with Blumhouse Productions, known for redefining horror with hits like The Invisible Man and Upgrade. Jason Blum and Ryan Gosling also bring their expertise as producers, promising a cinematic experience that blends artistry with terror.

The Countdown Begins

Mark your calendars—Wolf Man hits Philippine cinemas on January 15, 2025. Follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for updates, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes content. Prepare to be transformed. Will you survive the night?
January 14, 2025
Pinoy Craftsmanship Shines in “Wicked” – Harvy Santos and the Film’s Iconic Hats

Filipino talent takes center stage in the Land of Oz as Harvy Santos, Senior Milliner for the film adaptation of Wicked, creates its most iconic hats.

From Ballet to Millinery: Harvy Santos’ Journey

Harvy Santos’ path to becoming a renowned milliner wasn’t a straight one. “I originally came from the Philippines,” Santos shares, recounting his humble beginnings. His fascination with costumes began at just six years old, but it wasn’t until years later, as a ballet dancer with the Hong Kong Ballet, that he began to actively pursue this passion.

“I used to be a ballet dancer. All of the money that I got from dancing, every payday I would buy myself books on garment construction and costume design.” Santos recalls. He eventually left dance behind and moved to the UK, where he honed his craft at Kensington and Chelsea colleges.

His creative ingenuity quickly garnered attention—his award-winning hats have graced the pages of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and other prestigious fashion publications.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Make It Universal (@makeituniversal)

Crafting Empowerment in Wicked

Now as Senior Milliner for Wicked, Santos breathes life into headpieces that symbolize empowerment and strength. “Millinery is like sculpture, we started playing with materials, to experiment with shapes,” he says. “Until this post, it’s still fascinating, it’s still challenging, and I quite like those challenges because I get to be inventive and creative with it.”

Each hat Santos creates helps shape the magical world of Wicked, a tale of friendship, courage, and self-discovery. Reflecting on his role, he says, “Every day, I’m part of what I have accomplished, and knowing the fact that you are contributing on an epic film, that’s very exhilarating.”

Celebrate Wicked: Now Showing in Philippine Cinemas!

Catch Harvy Santos’ extraordinary creations on the big screen! Wicked is now showing in cinemas nationwide. Don’t miss this enchanting experience—secure your tickets today here. For updates, follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

November 26, 2024
“Hello, Love, Again” Smashes Records, Breaking Into US Box-Office Top 10 with $2.4 Million Opening

Filipino cinema has made another breakthrough as “Hello, Love, Again”—a collaboration between ABS-CBN’s Star Cinema and GMA Pictures—soars into the U.S. box-office Top 10, grossing over $2.4 million during its debut weekend across 248 sites.

A Historic Milestone for Filipino Films

Debuting at No. 8 in the U.S. box-office rankings, “Hello, Love, Again” is a testament to the global appeal of Filipino storytelling. It also set the record for the highest theater average over the weekend, earning an impressive $9,700 per site.

The excitement doesn’t end there. Domestically, the movie shattered records with a massive ₱85 million opening day gross, the highest for a Filipino film. Within just three days, the romantic drama achieved a jaw-dropping ₱245 million, including a single-day high of ₱90 million in ticket sales.

Worldwide Screenings Expand

Directed by the celebrated Cathy Garcia-Sampana, “Hello, Love, Again” continues its global run in 1,000 cinemas worldwide, spanning countries like the U.S., Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Guam, and Saipan. Fans in Singapore, Malaysia, the Middle East, Cambodia, and Hong Kong can also look forward to its premiere this month.

The Story Behind the Success

“Hello, Love, Again” tells the heartfelt story of Ethan and Joy, played by Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards, whose love endures despite time and distance. Separated by life’s twists—Ethan pursuing dreams in Hong Kong and Joy building a new life in Canada—their love faces its toughest tests. Years later, fate brings them back together, rekindling emotions, exploring the changes in their lives, and rediscovering their bond.

This tale of love, resilience, and second chances resonates with audiences worldwide, proving that some connections are truly timeless.

Don’t Miss This Cinematic Event

Catch “Hello, Love, Again” in theaters now! Stay updated with Star Cinema on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) for the latest news and updates.

November 18, 2024
“Venom: The Last Dance” Dominates Philippine Box Office with $175M Global Debut

The highly anticipated “Venom: The Last Dance” devoured the box office over the weekend, securing a $175 million USD global opening. The final chapter in the electrifying Venom saga claimed the #1 spot in the Philippines and nearly all other territories where it premiered.

Returning to the role of Eddie Brock and his extraterrestrial alter-ego, Venom, Tom Hardy stars in this climactic adventure. With Kelly Marcel directing after co-writing the series’ first two films, “Venom: The Last Dance” has already earned the title of the third-largest opening for a Hollywood film in international markets this year.

Catch “Venom: The Last Dance” on the big screen and experience the epic final showdown now thrilling audiences in Philippine cinemas.

A Closer Look at Venom: The Last Dance

In this exhilarating final act, Tom Hardy’s Eddie and Venom face their ultimate challenge. Pursued by forces from both the human and symbiote worlds, the duo finds themselves at a crossroads, forced to confront the devastating price of survival in a world that may not be big enough for them both.

Directed by Kelly Marcel and brought to life by an ensemble cast that includes Chiwetel Ejiofor, Juno Temple, Rhys Ifans, Peggy Lu, Alanna Ubach, and Stephen Graham, this film brings a visceral end to Venom’s turbulent journey. Produced by cinematic heavyweights Avi Arad, Matt Tolmach, Amy Pascal, Hutch Parker, and both Hardy and Marcel, the final chapter delivers on the action and emotion that have captivated audiences since its debut.

Distributed by Columbia Pictures in the Philippines, a division of Sony Pictures Releasing International, Venom: The Last Dance is now showing nationwide. Don’t miss the end of an era—join the conversation with #Venom and tag @columbiapicph.

Venom: The Last Dance is now showing! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

October 28, 2024
Naoko Yamada is Inspired by Love, Acceptance, and Music in “The Colors Within,” now in PH Cinemas

Music has always been a recurring theme in Naoko Yamada’s works, from her directorial debut K-On! and now her latest work The Colors Within. “Music allows people to communicate without words,” Yamada tells The Japan Times. “It gives you a way to share your feelings. It crosses borders. Through sound, through music, you can share what you like.”

Embarking on this new journey with Yamada is writer Reiko Yoshida. They’ve collaborated since K-On!, and Yoshida has many more anime and live-action series and films in her belt, including the Violet Evergarden movie, and A Silent Voice.

“I give her some key words and phrases, and she weaves them into a complete story,” Yamada says. “When it comes to turning the idea into text, I leave everything to her, and when it comes to turning that text into animation, she leaves everything to me. It’s a relationship of complete trust.”

The film follows three teens, Totsuko, Kumi, and Rui, as they navigate school, being a teenager, and making decisions that conflict with either their personal beliefs, or familial tradition. Coming together to form a band challenges their everyday routine, and helps them form bonds that give them strength to find acceptance within themselves.

As for the heart of the story, Yamada wanted to go with a theme that resonates with everyone. “I wanted to depict the strength that comes from accepting things within others that you don’t have within yourself,” says Yamada. “For me, the most important thing when making a film, the core element, is love.”

Yamada also wanted to find joy and happiness in the mundane. “In shaping a narrative, some people might expect those kinds of ups and downs, but in that case, the story feels ‘constructed,’” says Yamada. “I wanted to avoid that. I wanted to carefully depict very normal things, the things that are near us every day. Rather than surface-level accidents, I wanted to dig deeper into everyday moments.”

Bring a friend and see a world of light and brilliance as “The Colors Within” is out in Philippine cinemas! Follow Encore Films PH on Facebook and @encorefilmsph on Instagram for the latest updates.

The Colors Within is now showing! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.

October 25, 2024
“Venom: The Last Dance” – First Reactions Praise It As “The Best in the Trilogy”

Early reactions are in, and “Venom: The Last Dance,” the much-anticipated final installment of the Venom trilogy, has fans buzzing! After its world premiere in New York, moviegoers are calling it the best of the series, praising Tom Hardy’s portrayal as both Eddie Brock and Venom. The film is being hailed for its mix of heart, humor, and thrilling action, setting the stage for a memorable final showdown.

A Promising Final Chapter

Tom Hardy returns for one last tango as Eddie Brock and his symbiotic alter ego in Venom: The Last Dance. This road-trip-style film balances outlandish action with heartfelt moments, delivering a finale that seems to have captured the attention of fans and critics alike.

Ian Sandwell of Digital Spy shared his excitement, calling it “the most entertaining in the trilogy.” “It’s largely a funny and sweet road trip with Eddie and Venom living their Thelma & Louise fugitive dreams, including car karaoke and dog rescuing. You might even find yourself getting emotional.”

A Crazy, Action-Packed Ride

According to journalist Simon Thompson, “Venom: The Last Dance sees Tom Hardy go all in for a fun finale befitting the franchise. With stacks of set pieces ranging from kooky to crazy, this doesn’t hold back with the Venomenal action. Take it for what it is. Grab some popcorn and go with the flow of this raging road movie.”

Drew Taylor from The Wrap echoes these sentiments, claiming it is “Venom The Last Dance is the best of the “Venom” movies — the insanity has been ramped up significantly but so has the heart. It’s not perfect but it’s super entertaining and there’s a giant monster that chews people up and sprays blood out of the back of its head. Pretty nuts.”

“Monumental” and “Bonkers”

Critic Josh Wilding also shared his enthusiasm, declaring it “I’ve seen #VenomTheLastDance and it’s the most cinematic, monumental #Venom movie to date. Eddie Brock and Venom’s dynamic is at its strongest in this one and the stakes are so much higher. I had a LOT of fun with this one…the final act is BONKERS!”

Don’t Miss the Epic Finale

Venom: The Last Dance brings Tom Hardy’s portrayal of Venom to an epic conclusion, a saga that has spanned three action-packed films. With the net closing in on both Eddie and Venom, their final chapter is poised to be as dramatic and intense as fans have hoped. Don’t miss your chance to witness the end of this incredible journey.

Get your tickets now! Venom: The Last Dance is currently showing in Philippine cinemas. Check your local listings and reserve your seats for what’s sure to be a crowd-pleasing finale.

About Venom: The Last Dance

In Venom: The Last Dance, Eddie and Venom are fugitives, hunted by both of their worlds. As the duo faces impossible choices, the film delivers a heart-racing conclusion to the trilogy. Directed by Kelly Marcel and starring Tom Hardy, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Juno Temple, Rhys Ifans, and more, this action-packed thriller is the final chapter fans have been waiting for.

Distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, the film is now showing in cinemas nationwide. Stay updated with #Venom and follow @columbiapicph on social media.

Venom: The Last Dance is now showing! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

October 23, 2024
One in Faith – Meet the Men and Women of “The Forge”, Now Showing Exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas

“The Forge,” the latest release from the Kendrick Brothers – the creative team behind the No. 1 box-office hit “War Room,” as well as “Overcomer,” “Courageous” and “Fireproof” – will be showing exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas starting October 9.

Directed and co-written by Alex Kendrick, “The Forge” is sure to inspire discipleship and prayerfulness as it tells the story of a young man named Isaiah Wright. A year out of high school with no plans for his future, Isaiah is challenged by his single mom and a successful businessman to start charting a better course for his life. Through the prayers of his mother and her friend Miss Clara, as well as biblical discipleship from his new mentor, Isaiah begins to discover God’s purpose for his life is so much more than he could hope for or imagine.

In “The Forge,” moviegoers will find themselves reconnecting with characters and actors they’ve known and loved as they dive into a compelling new story that is certain to inspire and challenge people to grow deeper in their faith.

_{Priscilla Shirer plays twin sisters Elizabeth Jordan (reprising her role from “War Room”) and Cynthia Wright in “The Forge”}

Priscilla Shirer, an internationally known Bible teacher, plays Cynthia, mom of Isaiah. “It seems like a privilege that the Lord is allowing us this opportunity to do what we consider to be ministry together as a family,” says Shirer, a familiar face to fans of the Kendrick Brothers, having starred in their previous work “War Room.”

_{Karen Abercrombie plays Miss Clara in “The Forge”}

Sure to be a fan favorite is prayer warrior Miss Clara, played by Karen Abercrombie. “Oh, it’s wonderful, just to step back into her shoes, put her wig back on,” shares Abercrombie. “She really has been one of my favorite characters to play for many reasons. The opportunity to take the message of prayer around the world, the importance of it and the power of it. Just being able to embody that character again, breathe life back into her again, it’s quite wonderful for me.”

_{Cameron Arnett plays Joshua Moore in “The Forge”}

Cameron Arnett plays the important character of Joshua, mentor to Isaiah. Says Arnett, “Whenever I get an opportunity to testify of the Kendricks, what I say about their set is that it’s like a slice of heaven. This is what Christianity is supposed to be like. This is what the church is supposed to be like. The synergy, the oneness, the seamlessness, the prayer, the camaraderie, the laughter, the joy, the celebration of other people. I mean, all of those things just kind of come readily on the set.”

In the movie, Isaiah Wright, the young man whose story is being told in “The Forge,” crosses paths with Joshua, the owner of Moore Fitness, who offers Isaiah a job with one stipulation: they meet together regularly in a mentoring relationship.

_{Aspen Kennedy plays Isaiah Wright in “The Forge”}

Bringing life to Isaiah is newcomer Aspen Kennedy. “Isaiah has so many centerpieces around him – his mom, his friends, basketball,” says Kennedy. “But in a way he’s still trying to overcompensate his confidence because he lacked that father figure… I love Isaiah’s journey. I love how he goes from not having that father figure to meeting Joshua and just really taking off from there because he wants to be poured into; he lacks that, so it’s a beautiful journey to experience.”

The mentoring relationship between Joshua and Isaiah is one of the most inspiring parts of the film. Audiences get to see the relationship between the two deepening as Joshua moves from mentoring to discipling Isaiah – guiding the younger man to grow in his faith.

The young Kennedy says it best: “I definitely want the audience to take away the power of forgiveness, the power of letting go. It’s the power of pouring into others, the power of investing in others, and just really understanding that we should think less of ourselves because that’s the posture that we can serve others best.”

Why The Forge?

Director Alex explains the movie’s title. “Spiritually speaking, when the Lord puts us in a forge, He works on us spiritually, to build and grow and sharpen our faith, our character, our beliefs,” Alex says. “Sometimes that comes through a level of pressure, a level of spiritual heat, if you will. And so we titled this movie ‘The Forge’ because of what it does to us spiritually.”

Offering a wide array of choices and diverse content is one of the commitments of Ayala Malls Cinemas to its patrons, movie lovers who go to the cinemas to watch movies the best way possible – on the big screen. From big blockbusters to critically acclaimed independent features to niche titles such as the faith-based “The Forge,” Ayala Malls Cinemas has something for everyone.

No matter what genre they choose, movie lovers get to have an enhanced movie-watching experience, thanks to state-of-the-art facilities, including plush seating, generous legroom, cutting-edge laser projections, and superior audio technologies like Dolby Sound and Dolby Atmos. And what movie time is complete without snacks? At the Movie Snackbar, guests can enjoy different-flavored popcorn, hotdog sandwiches and cold drinks for a chill and relaxing movie-watching experience.

For more information on screening schedules and to book tickets for “The Forge” and other titles, movie enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the Ayala Malls Cinemas FB and IG pages and www.sureseats.com

Prepare to grow in faith and be inspired. Watch “The Forge,” now showing exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas.

_{Photo and Video Credit: CrystalSky Entertainment / Ayala Malls Cinemas}

October 9, 2024
Sinag Maynila Film Festival 2024: Independent Films Take Center Stage Across 12 Cinemas with Affordable Tickets
The Sinag Maynila Film Festival returns with a powerful lineup of independent films, captivating audiences in Metro Manila from September 4-10, 2024. After a four-year hiatus, the festival is back with renewed vigor, offering moviegoers a unique cinematic experience across 12 cinemas in the metro, with tickets priced at just Php 200.

Cinemas Partner with Sinag Maynila to Promote Indie Films

In an exciting collaboration, Sinag Maynila has partnered with some of the most popular cinemas in Metro Manila to showcase this year’s finalist films. Participating venues include Gateway (2 cinemas), Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Manila, SM Fairview, SM Mall of Asia, SM Manila, SM Megamall, SM North Edsa, SM Southmall, SM Sta. Mesa, and Market Market. This initiative is a significant step in making independent films more accessible to the public.

“We are thankful to our official partner venues for giving space to our finalist films and for supporting our initiative to make the ticket price more affordable,” says Mr. Wilson Tieng. “Indeed the cinemas, along with our other supporters such as the City of Manila, are making significant contributions for the development of Philippine independent cinema and the growth of the Filipino film market.”

A Showcase of Exceptional Talent

The festival, founded by Solar Entertainment President Wilson Tieng and Cannes International Film Festival Best Director Brillante Mendoza, is renowned for its commitment to the “Sine Lokal, Pang-International” advocacy. Established in 2015, Sinag Maynila has consistently highlighted films that push the boundaries of storytelling and cinematography, reflecting both local realities and universal themes.

This year’s competition is fierce, with an impressive lineup of finalists vying for top honors:
- Full-Length Features: The Gospel of the Beast by Sheron Dayoc, Her Locket by J.E. Tiglao, Banjo by Bryan Wong, Maple Leaf Dreams by Benedict Mique, What You Did by Joan Lopez Flores, Salome by Gutierrez Mangansakan II, and Talahib by Alvin Yapan.
- Documentaries: Ghosts of Kalantiaw by Chuck Escasa, Ino by Ranniel Semana, Natatanging Palayok by Ein Gil Randall S. Camuñas, Pag-Ibig Ang Mananaig by Jenina Denise A. Domingo, Panatag by Allan Lazaro, Untitled/Unfinished by Matthew Victor Pastor, and Way of the Balisong by Paul Factora.
- Short Films: 14 Days by Nars Santos, Ang Maniniyot ni Papa Jisos by Franky Arrocena, As the Moth Flies by Gayle Oblea, Bisan Abo Wala Bilin by Kyd Torato, Kiyaw by Jericho Jeriel, ILO by Serafin Emmanuel P. Catangay, Mananguete by Mery Grace Rama-Mission, Ina Bulan by Melver Ritz L. Gomez, Sa Paglupad Ka Banong by Elvert Bañares, and Suka and Toyo Can Make Adobo by Jude Matanguihan.
World Premieres and International Debuts

Sinag Maynila 2024 is not just a platform for showcasing films but also a stage for several world, international, and Asian premieres. Films such as What You Did, Talahib, Salome, Maple Leaf Dreams, and Pag-Ibig Ang Mananaig are set to have their world premieres. Meanwhile, Untitled/Unfinished will make its international premiere, As the Moth Flies its Asian premiere, and Her Locket its Philippine debut.

Awarding the Best in Independent Cinema

The much-anticipated Gabi ng Parangal (Awards Night) will take place on September 8, 2024, at the historic Metropolitan Theater. This event will honor the best among the finalists, celebrating their contributions to the Philippine independent film industry.

Sinag Maynila 2024 is supported by the City of Manila, Department of Tourism, Culture & Arts Office of Manila (DTCAM), the Film Development Council of the Philippines and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

Join the Conversation

Stay updated with the latest news and announcements by following Sinag Maynila on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Vimeo.
September 5, 2024
SB19’s “PAGTATAG! The Documentary” Hits Philippine Cinemas Today

SB19’s much-anticipated film, PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY, makes its grand theatrical debut across the Philippines today! Fans and music lovers alike are in for a treat as the film pulls back the curtain on the highs and lows of the group’s journey to global pop stardom.

A Raw and Real Inside Look

The documentary goes beyond the glitz and glamour, diving deep into SB19’s collective and individual experiences on tour. It showcases the intense pressure and anxiety the group faced while navigating their meteoric rise in the global music scene. This candid exploration of their journey highlights not just their achievements but the mental and emotional challenges they had to overcome.

As SB19 moves forward into a new era of music, career, and personal growth, PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY captures never-before-seen moments that test their resilience and commitment. The film doesn’t shy away from the struggles, offering an honest portrayal of the group’s year-long tour and album release, filled with setbacks that added to their mental and emotional stress.

Overcoming Adversity

“Part of what makes the film even more special is that it doesn’t sugar-coat the learnings and experiences that we’ve endured during the entire era of the PAGTATAG! tour and album release,” SB19 shares in a press statement. “The year-long run was filled with multiple setbacks that added mental and emotional distress. But as the title explains it best, the documentary will show how we bounced back from the adversities in life and career, and how we managed to mount a series of shows despite going through a lot of internal and collective struggles. We hope that through this movie, we will be able to inspire our A’TIN to become stronger and more resilient when they face a similar ordeal in a not-so-distant future.”

Behind the Scenes with SB19

SB19’s PABLO, who currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of 1Z Entertainment, emphasized that they’ve always thought about producing a documentary that captures the story behind the stage and the little moments that define the human aspects of mounting a tour of this scale and ambition.

“We’re grateful to First Light Studios and Jed Regala for helping us turn our vision into a reality,” PABLO reveals. “We’re lucky to have a team that understands the power of collaboration.”

Exclusive Screenings Nationwide

The film is set for exclusive screenings from August 28 to September 1 in cinemas nationwide. Don’t miss your chance to witness SB19’s incredible journey on the big screen!

Get your PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY tickets here.

A Triumphant Year for SB19

Just recently, SB19 added another feather to their cap by winning Billboard’s Fan Army Face-off for the second consecutive year, beating international music icons like Rihanna. The group garnered 56.3% of the votes in the final round, a testament to their ever-growing global fanbase.

Moreover, SB19 represented the Philippines in Billboard Korea’s “Billboard K POWER 100” in Seoul, where they received the Voices of Asia Award for their groundbreaking contributions in bringing Filipino music to the global stage.

About SB19

SB19 is a multi-awarded, five-member boy group from the Philippines consisting of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin. They debuted in October 2018 with their single “Tilaluha” and gained widespread popularity with their second single “Go Up.” Since their debut, SB19 has amassed a global fanbase, known as A’TIN, and has been recognized as the Philippines’ Youth Ambassadors by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

The “SB” in SB19 stands for “Sound Break,” reflecting their ambition to disrupt the music scene and showcase Filipino talent on the international stage. SB19 is the first Southeast Asian and Filipino act to be nominated for the Billboard Music Awards’ Top Social Artist in 2021 and has consistently made waves on the Billboard Social 50 and Next Big Sound Charts.

Their latest hit, “GENTO,” debuted at #8 on the Billboard World Digital Sales Charts, further solidifying their status as global music icons.

SB19 is self-managed by 1Z Entertainment, a company built and managed by the members of SB19.

August 28, 2024