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  • A Stunning Journey Through Life and the Afterlife Begins in ‘Scarlet,’ Exclusively at SM Cinemas

    A Stunning Journey Through Life and the Afterlife Begins in ‘Scarlet,’ Exclusively at SM Cinemas

    A Dazzling New Tale from Academy Award®-Nominated Filmmaker Mamoru Hosoda

    Time unravels, destinies shift, and emotions spark to life in Scarlet, the newest animated spectacle from celebrated director Mamoru Hosoda—now showing exclusively at SM Cinemas. Known for beloved classics like The Girl Who Leapt Through Time and Mirai (which earned a Best Animated Feature nomination at the 91st Academy Awards), Hosoda once again blends the fantastical with the deeply human.

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    A Fresh Perspective on Revenge and Redemption

    While Scarlet builds on timeless themes, it carries a surprisingly hopeful core. Hosoda shares that although the story draws inspiration from Hamlet—with its haunting reflections on vengeance—this film seeks a more uplifting path.

    “The question presented to Scarlet is how to deal with the energy, how to forgive. There are many parallels to our current geo-political landscape and I wanted that reflected in the screenplay. We don’t really have an answer of how to fix that yet but there’s this collective desire of mankind to figure it out because of the cost of war,” Director Hosoda says. 

    With that, Scarlet becomes more than a princess’s quest for justice; it evolves into a stirring meditation on empathy and resilience.

    Watch the Official Trailer here:

    A Haunting Vision of the Otherworld

    Much of the film unfolds in Hosoda’s mesmerizing interpretation of the afterlife—aptly called the Otherworld. It is a realm that transcends simple understanding.

    ”A place where life and death coexist, and both past and future are all woven together. If you are not strong enough you will disappear into nothingness,” Hosoda says.

    This ethereal landscape acts as both a sanctuary and a battleground for Scarlet’s inner transformation. Every step she takes is laced with mystery, danger, and unexpected warmth.

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    A Heroine’s Journey Filled with Courage

    Beyond its rich themes and breathtaking animation, Scarlet stands out for its emotionally charged storytelling. The film invites viewers to reflect on what it means to heal, to hope, and to move forward despite unimaginable pain. It’s a cinematic experience that lingers—beautiful, stirring, and wonderfully human.

    Catch Scarlet Exclusively in SM Cinemas

    Ready for an unforgettable adventure across time and emotion? Scarlet is now showing exclusively at SM Cinemas. Let its remarkable world captivate you, challenge you, and inspire you.

    Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

  • Time-Bending Anime “Scarlet” by Mamoru Hosoda Opens December 10 Exclusively at SM Cinemas

    Time-Bending Anime “Scarlet” by Mamoru Hosoda Opens December 10 Exclusively at SM Cinemas

    A Warrior Princess. A Future Healer. A Journey Beyond Time.

    Mark your calendars, anime lovers—acclaimed filmmaker Mamoru Hosoda is back with another emotionally charged masterpiece. His latest film, Scarlet, premieres exclusively at SM Cinemas this December 10, promising a cinematic experience that’s equal parts breathtaking and soul-stirring.

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    From the genius who brought the world Summer Wars, Wolf Children, and the Oscar-nominated Mirai, Scarlet continues Hosoda’s legacy of blending high-stakes adventure with heartfelt storytelling.

    Watch the Trailer Here:

    Vengeance Meets Compassion in the Afterlife

    Scarlet follows the story of a fierce, sword-wielding princess born in a brutal medieval age. Trained for battle and driven by a thirst for vengeance, her mission is simple: avenge her father’s death. But fate has a different path in mind.

    After failing her quest, she awakens in a strange, surreal afterlife—one that’s neither heaven nor hell. There, she encounters a gentle young man from a distant future: a medic whose kindness and empathy challenge everything she believes about honor and violence.

    What unfolds is a journey through time and memory—one that forces the warrior to confront her past and reconsider what it truly means to live.

    Scarlet embrace

    The Mastermind Behind the Magic

    Hosoda’s ability to weave emotionally resonant stories with bold sci-fi and fantasy elements has made him one of the most respected directors in animation today.

    Starting his career in 1991 at the legendary Toei Animation studio, Hosoda first made waves with Digimon Adventure(1999), a film that sparked a cultural phenomenon. His transition to freelance directing gave birth to some of the most beloved anime films of the 21st century, including:

    • The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006) – a heartfelt coming-of-age time-travel tale
    • Summer Wars (2009) – a digital-age family epic
    • Wolf Children (2012) – a touching ode to motherhood
    • Mirai (2018) – an Academy Award® nominee for Best Animated Feature

    Now, with Scarlet, Hosoda once again pushes the boundaries of animated storytelling—merging history, fantasy, and emotional truth in a stunning visual spectacle.

    Scarlet poster2

    An SM Cinemas Exclusive: December 10

    Set your sights on the big screen, because Scarlet will only be showing in SM Cinemas beginning December 10. This exclusive release is a must-see for anime fans, Hosoda followers, and anyone craving a story that’s both action-packed and emotionally profound.

    Expect jaw-dropping animation, haunting soundscapes, and characters you’ll be thinking about long after the credits roll.

    Final Thoughts: A Tale That Transcends Eras

    In Scarlet, Mamoru Hosoda crafts more than just a fantasy tale—he builds a bridge between worlds, centuries, and hearts. The film explores what happens when empathy disrupts rage, when the future collides with the past, and when a warrior learns there’s more to life than vengeance.

    Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to Hosoda’s work,  Scarlet promises a cinematic journey like no other.

    Don’t miss Mamoru Hosoda’s Scarlet, distributed by Columbia Pictures PH — only in SM Cinemas starting December 10.

    Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

  • A Celebration of Faith and the Nativity — “Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night” Premieres December 11 at SM Cinemas

    A Celebration of Faith and the Nativity — “Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night” Premieres December 11 at SM Cinemas

    Celebrate the season with a breathtaking retelling of the Nativity as “Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night”premieres in the Philippines this December 11, exclusively at SM Cinemas. This Christmas special, inspired by the globally acclaimed TV series The Chosen, offers a heartfelt portrayal of the birth of Jesus Christ, seamlessly blending human emotion with divine grace.

    A scene from Holy Night

    A Cinematic Nativity Experience Like No Other

    Starring Sara Anne as a youthful Mother Mary and Raj Bond as Joseph, the film captures the simplicity and sanctity of Christ’s birth. It delves into Mary and Joseph’s personal journey while showcasing the extraordinary mission they embraced. Fans will also recognize familiar faces from The Chosen series, including Elizabeth Tabish (Mary Magdalene) and Vanessa Benavente (older Mother Mary).

    Adding to the immersive experience, the special features a heartfelt video message from The Chosen creator Dallas Jenkins, encouraging viewers to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.

    Music That Magnifies the Spirit of the Season

    The special’s soundtrack elevates the emotional narrative with performances by global icons like Andrea Bocelli and his son Matteo Bocelli, alongside the soulful sounds of The Feast Worship, adding a unique Filipino touch. This harmony of music and visuals transforms the film into a worship experience that stirs the soul.

    A Touching Response from Fans

    During a recent preview held in Manila, attendees were moved by the film’s authenticity and emotional depth. One viewer shared, “It made me feel like I was present at the Nativity.” Another praised it as “the perfect reminder of the reason for the season.”

    HolyNight poster with date

    Jonathan Roumie’s Gratitude to Filipino Fans

    Jonathan Roumie, the beloved actor who portrays Jesus in The Chosen, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the warm reception in the Philippines. “To see such a warm reception to The Chosen here is humbling,” he said. Roumie marveled at the country’s unique Christmas spirit, where celebrations begin as early as September and culminate in January.

    An Invitation to Experience Christmas Anew

    “The Chosen Christmas Special: Holy Night” isn’t just a movie—it’s an invitation to reflect on the wonder of Christ’s birth. Perfect for family gatherings or personal quiet moments, this special promises to inspire faith and foster gratitude.

    Sara Anne as young Mother Mary in Holy Night

    Save the Date

    Mark your calendars and bring your loved ones to “Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night” starting December 11 at SM Cinemas.

    Tickets are available now via the SM Cinema app on Google Play and the App Store. Reserve your seats early to be part of this unforgettable celebration of Christmas.

  • Meet Mary and Joseph in the Christmas Musical “Journey to Bethlehem,” Showing Exclusively in SM Cinemas December 6

    This Christmas season, sing along to the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus with Journey to Bethlehem, a live-action Christmas musical adventure for the entire family that stars Fiona Palomo, Milo Manheim and Antonio Banderas as King Herod. The film, which weaves classic Christmas melodies with humor, faith, and new pop songs in a retelling of the greatest story ever told, will be shown exclusively in SM Cinemas starting December 6, just in time for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

    The huge responsibility that comes with playing the earthly parents of Jesus is not lost on the actors who play them in the film. “I feel like for Mary it’s probably a much deeper weight,” says Manheim, who plays Joseph, about the character of Mary. “But, you know, Mary is obviously carrying the child of God.”

    “It’s a huge responsibility,” agrees Palomo, who plays the all-important role of Mary. “But we will see through the movie that she couldn’t have done it without Joseph.”

    Their respective characters aren’t the only things Palomo and Manheim love about the movie. They’re singing praises of the film’s music too!

    Journey to Bethlehem Fiona Palomo Milo Manheim 2

    “The thing that I love about this so much is that it’s such an ancient story but all the music is so modern,” says Manheim. “It feels like two things that wouldn’t really go together but we’re creating a movie that I absolutely would watch and I know that I would love – and the music is incredible.”

    Adds Palomo, “It’s a beautiful balance between just very grounded real human problems and purposes and barriers and everything, and just performance and theater and color – it’s perfect.”

    “Finding the right Mary and Joseph was, of course, key,” says Richard Peluso, head of Affirm Films, a Christian film studio owned by Sony Pictures. “I had already been kind of teed up by Adam [Anders, director] and the producer saying that they really like these two actors, and when I finished watching all the tapes, I came back to them and said, ‘You guys are spot on – It is Fiona, and it is Milo.They are Mary and Joseph.” 

    Journey to Bethlehem Antonio Banderas

    Journey to Bethlehem, also starring Academy Award® nominee Antonio Banderas as King Herod,is showing exclusively in SM cinemas starting December 6. Don’t miss this must-see feel good film this holiday season.

    About Journey to Bethlehem

    A young woman carrying an unimaginable responsibility. A young man torn between love and honor. A jealous king who will stop at nothing to keep his crown. This live-action Christmas musical adventure for the entire family weaves classic Christmas melodies with humor, faith, and new pop songs in a retelling of the greatest story ever told – the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus. A unique new entry into the collection of holiday classic movies, this epic Christmas musical is unlike any before it.

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    Directed by Adam Anders, with screenplay by Adam Anders & Peter Barsocchini. Produced by Brandt Andersen, Adam Anders, Ryan Busse, Stephen Meinen, Alan Powell, Steve Barnett

    Fiona Palomo, who plays Mary, and Milo Manheim, who plays Joseph, are joined by Omid Djalili, Rizwan Manji, Geno Segers, MŌRIAH, Joel Smallbone, Lecrae, Stephanie Gil and Academy Award® Nominee Antonio Banderas.

    Showing exclusively in SM Cinemas starting December 6, Journey to Bethlehem is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #JourneytoBethlehem and tag @columbiapicph

    Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”