The winds of change are sweeping across Middle-earth as the highly anticipated Season Two of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is set to premiere on August 29, 2024. The first three episodes will drop simultaneously, followed by new episodes released weekly, leading up to the thrilling finale on October 3, 2024.
Final Trailer Teases Middle-earth’s Greatest Battle Yet
Prime Video has just unveiled the final trailer for Season Two, setting the stage for the epic return of Sauron. The trailer paints a picture of a world on the brink, with kingdoms teetering on the edge of destruction. The seeds of discord sown by Sauron have taken root, leading to the forging of more Rings of Power and the dawn of an all-consuming war.
This season will finally bring to life the legendary Siege of Eregion, a pivotal event in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Second Age of Middle-earth. As alliances are forged in fire and friendships tested, the battle lines are drawn in a war that will change the fate of Middle-earth forever.
Sauron Rises: A New Era of Darkness
After being cast out by Galadriel, Sauron returns, more dangerous and cunning than ever. Stripped of his army, the Dark Lord must rely on his wits and guile to rebuild his power and oversee the creation of the Rings that will bind all the peoples of Middle-earth to his dark will.
Season Two delves deeper into the hearts of its beloved characters, pushing them to the limits as they face overwhelming odds. The tension between elves and dwarves, men and orcs, and even the seemingly innocent Harfoots, will reach new heights as the forces of good fight to preserve the fragile peace of their world.
A Journey Through Middle-earth’s Greatest Legends
The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power takes viewers on an unparalleled journey through the Second Age of Middle-earth, a time when great powers were forged, and kingdoms rose and fell. From the shadowy depths of the Misty Mountains to the majestic forests of Lindon and the distant shores of Númenor, this series captures the essence of Tolkien’s legendary world.
Following an ensemble cast of both familiar and new characters, the series explores the reemergence of evil that threatens to engulf Middle-earth in darkness. As heroes are tested and legacies forged, viewers will be transported back to a time when hope was fleeting, and the fate of the world hung by the finest of threads.
A Global Phenomenon Returns
The first season of The Rings of Power was a monumental success, drawing over 100 million viewers worldwide and generating more than 32 billion streaming minutes. The show’s debut shattered records, becoming Prime Video’s biggest premiere ever and igniting a global conversation. With hashtags like #TheRingsofPower trending for days, the series became a cultural phenomenon.
Now, with Season Two on the horizon, the stakes are higher than ever. Fans around the globe are eagerly awaiting the return of their favorite characters and the continuation of this epic saga.
Don’t Miss the Return of Sauron
Mark your calendars for August 29, 2024, as The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power returns to Prime Video. With the first three episodes dropping on premiere day, followed by weekly releases, this season promises to be a game-changer in the world of fantasy television.
Set in the fabled Second Age of Middle-earth, thousands of years before the events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, this epic drama explores the forging of great powers, the rise and fall of kingdoms, and the emergence of unlikely heroes. The Rings of Power is an ambitious exploration of Tolkien’s world, where darkness threatens to engulf the light, and hope is a fragile, precious thing.
Produced by showrunners J.D. Payne & Patrick McKay, along with an exceptional team of executive producers, directors, and creatives, Season Two promises to elevate the series to new heights, drawing audiences deeper into the lore of Middle-earth.
A bittersweet tale of ambition, love, and the complexities of family dynamics, How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies is set to tug at heartstrings as it debuts on Netflix across Southeast Asia starting September 12. This highly anticipated Thai drama has already taken Southeast Asia by storm, earning its place as the highest-grossing Thai film in numerous countries, including Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Myanmar. As it continues to build momentum, the film will be available in more countries later this year.
A Story of Dreams and Sacrifice
At the heart of the story is M, portrayed by rising star Putthipong “Billkin” Assaratanakul, whose dreams of becoming a successful game caster take a backseat when he decides to care for his terminally ill grandmother, played by the seasoned actress Usha Seamkhum. M’s motivation isn’t entirely selfless—he’s also driven by the promise of a multimillion-dollar inheritance. However, winning his grandmother’s favor proves to be no small task, as she is both demanding and difficult to please. The tension escalates when M realizes he isn’t the only one eyeing the fortune, leading to a fierce, yet heartfelt competition to become Grandma’s favorite before time runs out.
As How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies premieres on Netflix, viewers across Southeast Asia are in for an emotional rollercoaster. The film’s powerful storytelling and relatable themes make it a must-watch for anyone who has ever faced the challenges of family responsibility, love, and the pursuit of dreams.
Mark your calendars—this touching drama starts streaming on Netflix from September 12.
Sometimes, the most gripping stories aren’t fiction. They’re found in real-life dramas made even more terrifying because they can happen to anyone—including you. Lionsgate Play’s collection of films based on true events all unfold with a heart-pounding intensity. From catastrophic disasters to political intrigue, these films capture the raw intensity of human experience. Prepare to be captivated by these real-life thrillers that prove truth is often stranger—and more terrifying—than fiction.
Deepwater Horizon is a gripping dramatization of the catastrophic 2010 oil rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico. Directed by Peter Berg, the film follows the harrowing ordeal of chief electronics technician Mike Williams (Mark Wahlberg) as he and his team fight for survival amidst the inferno. The film offers a tense and dramatic portrayal of the disaster, highlighting the courage of those who risked their lives to escape the burning rig.
What was supposed to be the Belon family’s idyllic Christmas holiday at a Thailand resort is abruptly shattered by the catastrophic 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. As the powerful waves sweep everything in sight, the family is torn apart, left to survive amidst the chaos. Their desperate struggle to reunite is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Starring Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, and Tom Holland, The Impossible offers a raw and emotional portrayal of the Belon family’s experience.
Hotel Mumbai is a dramatic retelling of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The film recreates the horrific siege of the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, where terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba group held hostages. Against this backdrop of chaos, hotel waiter Arjun (Dev Patel) emerges as a hero, risking his life to protect terrified guests, including a British couple and their child.
7 Days in Entebbe is a gripping thriller recounting the dramatic 1976 hijacking of an Air France flight. Diverted to Entebbe, Uganda. The aircraft becomes a hostage crisis when four terrorists, including Germans Brigitte Kuhlmann (Rosamund Pike) and Wilfried Böse (Daniel Bruhl), seize control, demanding the release of imprisoned militants. As a tense standoff unfolds, the Israeli government orchestrates a daring rescue mission to liberate the passengers from the hijackers’ clutches.
Fair Game (2010)
The dramatic political thriller Fair Game is based on the true story of undercover CIA operative Valerie Palme (Naomi Watts). The film follows the fallout after her husband, Joseph Wilson (Sean Penn), publicly criticized the Bush administration’s claims about Iraq. To discredit Wilson, Palme’s identity was exposed by a politically motivated press leak, shattering her career and jeopardizing her family’s safety.
In the mood for more dramatic thrillers to binge? Check out more titles on Lionsgate Play!
Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth star in Academy Award®-winning mastermind George Miller’s iconic dystopian world he created more than 40 years ago with the seminal Mad Max films. Miller now turns the page again with an all-new original, standalone action adventure that reveals the origins of the powerhouse character from the multiple Academy Award®-winning global smash Mad Max: Fury Road.
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As the world fell, young Furiosa is snatched from the Green Place of Many Mothers and falls into the hands of a great Biker Horde led by the Warlord Dementus. Sweeping through the Wasteland, they come across the Citadel presided over by The Immortan Joe. While the two Tyrants war for dominance, Furiosa must survive many trials as she puts together the means to find her way home.
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Warner Bros. Pictures presents a Kennedy Miller Mitchell Production. Directed by George Miller, produced by George Miller and Academy Award®-nominated Doug Mitchell, co-written by Nico Lathouris. Furiosa: A Mad Max Sagawill be available to streamfrom August 16 on HBO GO. Subscribe to HBO GO online at https://www.hbogoasia.ph/ or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store for only ₱1,190 on the 12-month plan. Or access HBO GO via Cignal and Globe. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality.
About HBO GO
Warner Bros. Discovery’s HBO GO is a regional streaming service in Southeast Asia, Taiwan and Hong Kong. Programming includes award-winning HBO Original series, movies and documentaries, Max Originals which tell compelling stories from around the region and beyond. This is supplemented by exclusive, first-run content from major Hollywood and independent studios that offers a mix of originals and acquired content – including kids and family content from Cartoon Network and Warner Bros. – available to download or stream anytime, anywhere. Log on to www.hbogoasia.com for more information.
This August, brace yourself for another heartwarming journey as Love Next Door hits Netflix, brought to you by the creative minds behind the beloved series Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha. Directed by Yoo Je-won and written by Shin Ha-eun, this new K-RomCom promises to deliver the same charm, wit, and emotional depth that made its predecessor a global sensation.
Meet Bae Seok-ryu and Choi Seung-hyo
The story revolves around Bae Seok-ryu, portrayed by the talented Jung So-min. After a string of unfortunate events, Seok-ryu is determined to start anew. Her path crosses with Choi Seung-hyo, played by the charismatic Jung Hae-in, a young and accomplished architect with a bright future. Their lives are intertwined by more than just fate—Seung-hyo happens to be the son of Seok-ryu’s mother’s close friend, a connection that brings back a flood of awkward childhood memories.
Old Memories, New Beginnings
As adults, Seok-ryu and Seung-hyo must navigate the complexities of their shared past. Will their childhood memories stand in the way of a blossoming romance, or will they find a way to embrace their second chance at love? With its engaging storyline, Love Next Door explores themes of forgiveness, rediscovery, and the unpredictable nature of love.
Mark Your Calendars
Love Next Door begins streaming globally on Netflix starting August 17, with a special release in LATAM on August 31. Don’t miss out on what’s sure to be another K-drama hit that will tug at your heartstrings and keep you coming back for more.
Prime Video is set to release its latest action-comedy sensation, JACKPOT!, on August 15, 2024. Directed by the acclaimed Paul Feig, this film delivers a rollercoaster of laughs and thrills with a unique twist on the classic lottery theme: in this high-stakes game, the real challenge is surviving until sundown.
Watch the Trailer Now!
The newly released trailer for JACKPOT! gives audiences a sneak peek into the chaotic and comedic adventure that awaits. Filled with fast-paced action, hilarious encounters, and unexpected twists, the trailer sets the stage for what promises to be one of the most entertaining films of the year.
Plot and Star-Studded Cast
JACKPOT! centers on Katie Kim, played by the hilarious Awkwafina, who accidentally stumbles upon a winning lottery ticket worth billions. However, there’s a deadly catch: the prize can only be claimed if the winner survives until sundown. In her bid to outlast the competition, Katie teams up with Noel Cassidy, an amateur lottery protection agent portrayed by John Cena, promising him a share of her winnings. Their unlikely alliance faces numerous challenges, especially from Noel’s cunning adversary Louis Lewis, played by Simu Liu, who is determined to get his hands on the jackpot by any means necessary.
Paul Feig’s masterful direction ensures that JACKPOT! is not just an action-packed thrill ride but also a comedic gem. Awkwafina and John Cena bring to life a hilarious duo that audiences will undoubtedly fall in love with, blending humor and action seamlessly.
Behind the Scenes
Produced by industry heavyweights Joe Roth, Jeff Kirschenbaum, p.g.a., Paul Feig, p.g.a., and Laura Fischer, p.g.a., with executive producers including John Cena and Michelle Morrissey, JACKPOT! promises a cinematic experience packed with laughter and adrenaline. The creative team’s dedication to bringing a fresh and entertaining story to the screen is evident in every scene.
Mark your calendars for August 15, 2024, and prepare for a thrilling journey with JACKPOT! exclusively on Prime Video. Get ready to laugh, gasp, and cheer as Awkwafina and John Cena navigate the wild world of a Grand Lottery like you’ve never seen before. This film is sure to be a hit, delivering a perfect blend of comedy and action that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
August 2024 is shaping up to be an exciting month for Netflix subscribers, with a plethora of new content ready to hit the streaming service. From gripping dramas and heartwarming comedies to thrilling action flicks and captivating documentaries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a light-hearted series or immerse yourself in a thought-provoking film, Netflix’s August lineup offers a diverse array of entertainment options. Let’s dive into the most anticipated releases that you won’t want to miss.
A New Jersey construction worker (Mark Wahlberg) goes from regular guy to aspiring spy when his long-lost high school sweetheart (Halle Berry) recruits him for a high-stakes espionage mission.
EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTERS
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder (Series) Launch date: August 1 | Stream it here
Five years after the murder of a 17-year-old girl in a sleepy English town, one student is determined to uncover the truth and find the real killer.
Lovely Runner (Series) Launch date: August 1 | Stream it here
Years after a K-pop star saves her life, a fan learns of his death — but when she’s suddenly transported to the past, she sets out to change their fate.
Lolo and the Kid (Film) Launch date: August 7 | Stream it here
A hustler and the child he took in routinely con the wealthy — but a life-changing opportunity could end their inseparable bond.
An enterprising elevator operator secures funding for his app but faces unexpected setbacks when he catches feelings for his investor’s girlfriend.
ANTICIPATED RETURNS
From Me to You: Kimi ni Todoke: Season 3 (Series) Launch date: August 1 | Stream it here
As a new couple, Sawako and Kazehaya experience their first date, first school trip and more. Meanwhile, their friends’ love stories also begin to unfold.
Unstable: Season 2 (Series) Launch date: August 1 | Stream it here
The Hargreeves siblings have scattered after the climactic showdown at the Hotel Oblivion led to a complete reset of their timeline. Stripped of their powers, each is left to fend for themselves and find a new normal — with wildly varying degrees of success. Yet the trappings of their uncanny new world prove too hard to ignore for very long. Their father Reginald, alive and well, has stepped out of the shadows and into the public eye, overseeing a powerful and nefarious business empire. A mysterious association known as The Keepers holds clandestine meetings believing the reality they’re living in is a lie and a great reckoning is coming. As these strange new forces conspire around them, the Umbrella Academy must come together one last time — and risk upsetting the shaky peace they’ve all endured so much to secure — to finally set things right.
Emily’s life in Paris may have beaucoup drama, but she’s ready to make bold choices to get everything she wants from the city — and man — of her dreams.
REEL TO REAL
The Influencer (Series) Launch date: August 6 | Stream it here
Numerous influencers in Korea compete to determine who has the utmost influence on social media. Who will reach the pinN/Acle of power and status?
Love Is Blind: UK (Series) Launch date: August 7 | Stream it here
Emma and Matt Willis host a social experiment where British singles look for love and get engaged before meeting in person. But who will say “I do”?
A-List to Playlist (Series) Launch date: August 30 | Stream it here
With a 20-year acting career, Cho Jung-seok takes on the challenge of debuting as a singer in 100 days, mobilizing his entire network against the clock!
MORE FOR YOUR MUST-WATCH LIST
Mad Men: Seasons 1 to 7 (Series) Launch date: August 1 | Stream it here
Season 1: It’s 1960, and ad executive Don Draper rules the roost at New York’s Sterling Cooper Advertising Agency amid a glamorous backdrop.
Season 2: As changes mount within advertising agency Sterling Cooper, brilliant executive Don Draper finds that he must work harder at staying ahead.
Season 3: The martini-sipping, chain-smoking execs of ad agency Sterling Cooper — led by Don Draper — wade deeper into the turbulence of the 1960s.
Season 4: Debonair advertising exec Don Draper continues to build his own fledgling agency even as his personal life slides deeper into destructive habits.
Season 5: Brilliant, hard-drinking advertising exec Don Draper is back for more drama in this critically acclaimed show’s long-awaited fifth season.
Season 6: Madison Avenue’s most notorious advertising executive, Don Draper, returns to battle more personal demons stemming from his mysterious past.
Season 7: After six years of uncanny love for the 1960s detail, it’s time to say farewell to Sterling Cooper & Partners with an explosive final season.
Inside the Mind of a Dog (Documentary) Launch date: August 9 | Stream it here
Embark on a delightful journey into the world of dogs in this documentary that reveals scientific and emotioN/Al insights about our lovable BFFs.
Daughters (Documentary) Launch date: August 14 | Stream it here
Four young girls prepare for a special Daddy Daughter Dance with their incarcerated fathers, as part of a unique fatherhood program in a Washington, D.C. jail.
Backyard Wilderness (Documentary) Launch date: August 15 | Stream it here
This inventive nature documentary chronicles a child’s awakening to the complex web of animals and plants nestled in the woods around her suburban home.
Terror Tuesday: Extreme (Series) Launch date: August 20 | Stream it here
Inspired by the Thai horror radio show “Angkhan Khlumpong,” this series presents eight stories based on real-life experiences shared by listeners.
Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE (Documentary) Launch date: August 21 | Stream it here
The series follows 20 contestants from around the world over a year-long journey as they compete to become KATSEYE, a one-of-a-kind global girl group formed using KPOP methodologies. With unprecedented access, unfolding over eight episodes, the result is a compelling portrayal of the road to international stardom, including insight into the unique training and development program developed by HYBE and Geffen Records.
GG Precinct (Series) Launch date: August 22 | Stream it here
Facing a trail of murders staged as chilling word games, a rookie police captain and a goofy detective race to solve a serial killer’s deadly puzzles.
Their first week of high school. The biggest party of the year. Mistakes will be made as four teenage boys navigate a night of mayhem and debauchery.
Chastity High (Series) Launch date: August 29 | Stream it here
When an ultra-elite high school enforces a strict “No Romance” rule that expels anyone caught dating, a student secretly helps her classmates for cash.
As discord reigns on Mount Olympus and almighty Zeus spirals into paranoia, three mortals are destined to reshape the future of humankind.
With so many incredible new titles arriving on Netflix this August, viewers are in for a treat. Whether you’re binge-watching your favorite series, discovering new films, or exploring hidden gems, there’s no shortage of entertainment to keep you engaged all month long. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to explore all the exciting new content that Netflix has to offer. Happy streaming!
Netflix has announced that the highly anticipated Season 2 of Squid Game will premiere on December 26, 2024, with the final season set to follow in 2025. The announcement was made through a heartfelt letter from Hwang Dong-hyuk, the Executive Producer, Writer, and Director of the series, to fans worldwide.
About Season Two
Three years after winning the Squid Game, Player 456 remains relentless in his quest to find those responsible for the game and put an end to their vicious sport. Using his fortune to fund the search, Gi-hun starts by tracking down the man in a sharp suit playing ddakji in the subway. However, when his efforts finally bear fruit, he discovers that the path to dismantling the organization is deadlier than he imagined: to end the game, he must re-enter it.
From the opulent courts of France to the turbulent reign of England’s beloved princess, these captivating series offer a glimpse into the lives of history’s most fascinating women. Lionsgate Play brings together a collection of royal dramas that blend historical accuracy with compelling storytelling.
What is it about royal women that draws us in? Is it their commanding presence, their opulent lifestyles, or the mysterious allure that surrounds them? The stories of queens and princesses, whether draped in power or woven through with scandal, never fail to captivate.
Few subjects captivate audiences as consistently as the lives of royal women in cinematic storytelling. From the struggles and triumphs of queens to the intricate dramas within royal courts, these narratives have been brought to life on screens big and small.
If you’re fascinated by the resilience of queens who reshaped their realms or by the nuanced portrayals of princesses who navigated the complexities of royal life, then Lionsgate Play is your ultimate streaming destination. Here, you’ll find a rich selection of films and series that bring the grandeur and the intrigue of royalty to your screen.
Catherine de’ Medici – The Serpent Queen
Starring Bafta and Golden Globe winner Samantha Morton, The Serpent Queen chronicles the life of Catherine de’ Medici, an orphaned Italian teenager who marries into the 16th-century French court. Navigating the treacherous world of royal politics, she masters the art of monarchy, ultimately ruling France for fifty years, becoming one of history’s most formidable queens. The newly premiered second season the royal drama promises an even deeper dive into Catherine’s complex and controversial reign, adding more stars (like Minnie Driver, who plays Elizabeth I) to the already stellar cast.
Dame Elizabeth Grey – The White Queen
Set during England’s Wars of the Roses, The White Queen is based on Philippa Gregory’s best-selling novel. This miniseries tells the story of Elizabeth Woodville (Rebecca Ferguson), a commoner who marries King Edward IV and becomes queen. In this role, she must protect her family and secure her children’s place as heirs to the throne.
Elizabeth of York – The White Princess
The White Princess continues the York and Lancaster saga, focusing on Elizabeth of York (Jodie Comer), who becomes queen by marrying Henry VII. Amidst her mother’s family’s plots and her husband’s shaky claim to the throne, Elizabeth contends with political alliances and personal loyalties to protect her legacy.
Catherine of Aragon – The Spanish Princess
Another installment in the Philippa Gregory series, The Spanish Princess follows Catherine of Aragon (Charlotte Hope), the first wife of King Henry VIII. As a young princess from Spain, Catherine faces challenges in adapting to her new role as queen and navigating political tensions between England and Spain, all while trying to secure a male heir.
Elizabeth I – Becoming Elizabeth
This miniseries, starring Alicia von Rittberg and Romola Garai, chronicles the early years of Queen Elizabeth I’s reign. It begins with her as an orphaned teenager navigating the perilous politics of the English court, forging alliances, and overcoming betrayals to secure her place as queen and establish her legacy.
Princess Diana – Spencer
Fast-forward to more recent history, and Spencer delves into Princess Diana’s life and marriage to Prince Charles during the Christmas holidays of 1991. Starring Kristen Stewart, the film explores Diana’s emotional turmoil as her marriage unravels, offering a raw and intimate look at one of modern history’s most beloved royals.
Subscribe to Lionsgate Play via PLDT Home and Smart to immerse yourself in the drama, passion, and power struggles of royalty—all from the comfort of your living room. Don’t miss out on these spellbinding stories of royal women who not only ruled but also redefined their destinies.
The Rick and Morty universe expands with the debut of an all-new anime from visionary director Takashi Sano (Tower of God) that follows Rick, Morty and the rest of the Smith family in a new intergalactic adventure, Rick and Morty: The Anime debuts Friday, August 16 on HBO GO.
In celebration of Rick and Morty: The Anime, Adult Swim’s Rickmobile and Mortymobile will hit the road for a multi-city ANIME-rican tour across North America, late July. “Takashi Sano, in addition to being a super-talented director, is also a huge Rick and Morty fan,” said Michael Ouweleen, president, Adult Swim. “He’s the perfect person to give us all this alternate version of this amazing show. And the perfect way to launch this series is by doing our favorite thing – drive ridiculous vehicles around and come see all of you in person. Keep an eye out for our Rickmobile and Mortymobile as they cruise across the country and wrack up various toll tickets to celebrate the expansion of the Rick and Morty universe.”
In this 10-episode anime series from the world of Rick and Morty, Rick relaxes in a pseudo-world between multiverses, Summer helps Space Beth fight the evil Galactic Federation, and Morty falls in love with a mysterious girl who happens to be an atemporal being.
The Japanese and English voice actors, respectively, for Rick and Morty: The Anime include:
Rick – Youhei Tadano / Joe Daniels
Morty – Keisuke Chiba / Gabriel Regojo
Summer – Akiha Matsui / Donna Bella Litton
Jerry – Manabu Muraji / Joe Daniels
Beth – Takako Fuji / Patricia Duran
Rick and Morty: The Anime is written and directed by Sano and is produced for Adult Swim by Sola Entertainment with Jason Demarco and Joseph Chou serving as executive producers.
Revisit all seven seasons of Rick and Morty now and stream Rick and Morty: The Anime from August 16 on HBO GO, Subscribe to HBO GO online at https://www.hbogoasia.ph/ or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store for only ₱1,190 on the 12-month plan. Or access HBO GO via Cignal and Globe. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality.
