Thursday, March 31, 2016

“BATMAN v SUPERMAN” FLIES PAST HALF A BILLION DOLLARS WORLDWIDE, P200-M IN PH


Warner Bros. Pictures’ Super Hero Battle Hits the $500 Million Mark at the Global Box Office in Only Its Fifth Day of Release


BURBANK, CA, March 30, 2016 – Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” continues to win at the worldwide box office. Soaring past $500 million after only five days in theaters with a total of $501.9 million and counting, the film joins a very rare group of movies that cross half a billion dollars in their first week of release. The announcement was made today by Veronika Kwan Vandenberg, President of Worldwide Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures.

“We’re so proud that ‘Batman v Superman’ has become the must-see event film of the season for fans the world over,” Kwan Vandenberg stated. “These incredible numbers are building momentum for not only this movie, but for the upcoming slate of DC Super Hero films.”

The domestic box office total now stands at more than $193.3 million, and the international figure is $308.6 million.

In the Philippines, “Batman v Superman” has grossed an outstanding P201-million in only three days, the fastest period for any superhero film to reach this milestone. Past blockbusters “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Iron Man 3” and “Marvel's The Avengers” got to the P200-M mark in four days.

From director Zack Snyder comes “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice,” starring Oscar winner Ben Affleck (“Argo”) as Batman/Bruce Wayne and Henry Cavill as Superman/Clark Kent in the characters’ first big-screen pairing.


Fearing the actions of a god-like Super Hero left unchecked, Gotham City’s own formidable, forceful vigilante takes on Metropolis’s most revered, modern-day savior, while the world wrestles with what sort of hero it really needs. And with Batman and Superman at war with each other, a new threat quickly arises, putting mankind in greater danger than it has ever known before.

Directed by Zack Snyder, the film also stars Oscar nominees Amy Adams (“American Hustle”) as Lois Lane, Jesse Eisenberg (“The Social Network”) as Lex Luthor, Diane Lane (“Unfaithful”) as Martha Kent, and Laurence Fishburne (“What’s Love Got to Do with It”) as Perry White; Oscar winners Jeremy Irons (“Reversal of Fortune”) as Alfred, and Holly Hunter (“The Piano”) as Senator Finch; and Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman/Diana Prince.

Snyder directed from a screenplay written by Chris Terrio and David S. Goyer, based on characters from DC Comics, including Batman, created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger, and Superman, created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. The film was produced by Charles Roven and Deborah Snyder, with Wesley Coller, Geoff Johns and David S. Goyer serving as executive producers.

Warner Bros. Pictures presents, an Atlas Entertainment/Cruel and Unusual production, a Zack Snyder film, “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.” The film can be seen in IMAX, Dolby Cinema, and in 3D and 2D theaters worldwide and is being distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.


IDRIS ELBA Gives the Voice of Tiger, SHERE KHAN In THE JUNGLE BOOK”


Idris Elba has always had that distinct and captivating voice, which has made him ideal as a Voice Talent. We saw him recently in Disney's "Zootopia" as the water buffalo Police Chief Bogo and he is again, lending his voice chops as the iconic Shere Khan. 

Bengal tiger Shere Khan bears the scars of Man, which fuel his intense hatred of humans. Powerful and menacing, the fearsome tiger makes no secret of his feelings about man-cub Mowgli and his presence in the jungle. Shere Khan’s mission, above all else, is to ensure Mowgli—and the fire he knows Man wields—pose no future threat. Deep down, Shere Khan seeks revenge upon Man, and it’s Mowgli who will pay the price.

Recently winning the Screen Actors Guild award for Best Supporting Actor (“Beasts of No Nation”), Idris Elba brings the tiger Shere Khan to life, in Disney's new family adventure “The Jungle Book.” Directed by Jon Favreau (“Iron Man”), the new movie is based on Rudyard Kipling’s timeless stories and inspired by Disney’s classic animated film.

(Watch the “Intro to Shere Khan” clip at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OD3CLzPER34.)

“Jon [Favreau] and I sculpted what the sound should be,” says Elba. “It was a delicate set of negotiations till we found the right voice.”

“Idris wields tremendous presence in a room, which is evident in his voice,” says Favreau. “He’s got such gravity and brings his steely presence, a deep timbre that echoes in a larger-than-life way. He understands this scarred, imposing tiger in a way the character demands.”



Shere Khan reigns with fear,” says Elba. “He terrorizes everyone he encounters because he comes from a place of fear.

Elba was shocked when he saw the character come to fruition. “When Jon [Favreau] showed me Shere Khan’s expressions and how he moves, I had to ask, ‘Is that a real tiger?’ The technology is incredible.”

The Jungle Book” is an all-new, live-action epic adventure about Mowgli (Neel Sethi), a man-cub raised by a family of wolves. But Mowgli finds he is no longer welcome in the jungle when fearsome tiger Shere Khan (Idris Elba), who bears the scars of Man, promises to eliminate what he sees as a threat. Urged to abandon the only home he’s ever known, Mowgli embarks on a captivating journey of self-discovery, guided by panther-turned-stern mentor Bagheera (Ben Kingsley), and the free-spirited bear Baloo (Bill Murray). Along the way, Mowgli encounters jungle creatures who don’t exactly have his best interests at heart, including Kaa (Scarlett Johansson), a python whose seductive voice and gaze hypnotizes the man-cub, and the smooth-talking King Louie (Christopher Walken), who tries to coerce Mowgli into giving up the secret to the elusive and deadly red flower: fire.

The wild adventure swings into Philippine theaters in 3D on Thursday, April 07. “The Jungle Book” is distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Follow the official social media accounts of Disney in the Philippines, namely, (FB) WaltDisneyStudiosPH, (Twitter) @disneystudiosph and (Instagram) @waltdisneystudiosph and use the hashtag #JungleBookPH.


SCARLETT JOHANSSON Slithers Into Python, Kaa In "THE JUNGLE BOOK”



With only her voice, Scarlett Johansson made people (Joaquin Phoenix) madly fall in love with their computer's operating system in the futuristic drama “Her.” After seeing the movie, we kept associating Johansson's voice to that charming OS. There might be something in her voice that is both hypnotizing and eerily tempting as now, Johansson once again uses her voice to capture hearts in Disney's new family adventure “The Jungle Book,” based on Rudyard Kipling’s timeless stories and inspired by Disney’s classic animated film.

Johansson provides the voice of Kaa sets her sights on Mowgli when she discovers him all alone in the jungle. The massive python uses her seductive voice and hypnotic gaze to entrance the man-cub, and Mowgli finds himself unable to resist her captivating embrace.


Says director Jon Favreau, “Mowgli is exploring different regions of the jungle—mistier, darker, more mysterious parts of the jungle. That’s where Kaa lives. That’s where she gets ahold of him—till Baloo rescues him and brings him back to his cave.”

The director says one of his most prominent memories of the 1967 animated movie was the snake. “I always remembered Kaa’s hypnotic eyes with the spinning pinwheels,” he says.
Though Favreau wanted to maintain the spirit of the character, he decided to change its gender. “All the roles were male in the 1967 version, so I thought that there was an opportunity with Kaa to mix things up a little bit,” says Favreau, who called on Johansson to help bring the seductive snake to life.
“The Jungle Book” marks Johansson’s third collaboration with Favreau. She originated the role of Black Widow in “Iron Man 2,” and co-starred in Favreau’s indie hit “Chef.” “I remember seeing the movie ‘Her,’ and what an impact Scarlett made by just using her voice,” says the director. “She has such a presence to her voice.”

Says Johansson, “Ever since I was really young, I've loved doing voice work. Actors have different tools—our physical selves, our voices. When you take one of those away you become hyperaware of all kinds of tendencies. It’s an interesting process and sometimes you get these happy accidents and ornaments that decorate the performance. It’s an exciting way to work and dig deeper.
“For me,” continues Johansson, “the opportunity to play Kaa as envisioned by Jon [Favreau] was so exciting. The snake from the animated film is a boy. He's a friendlier, goofier version of the character. In this film, Kaa seduces and entraps Mowgli with her storytelling—her voice. She’s the mirror into Mowgli’s past. It was thrilling to reinvent this character in this rendering of the story.”


The character is designed to be intimidating, yet believable. “I saw a bit of Kaa early on during the production,” says Johansson. “It was important for me to see how she looks in proportion to Mowgli to help inform the presence and intensity of my voice. I had one tool—my voice—so it would’ve been very difficult without some sort of pre-visual reference.
“Kaa is magnificent,” continues Johansson. “The way that she moves is very alluring, almost coquettish. The audience will see this creature through the innocent eyes of this small boy Mowgli—they’ll become part of his world.”

Johansson has vivid memories of the 1967 version of “The Jungle Book.” “I remember that soundtrack well—it was so popular when I was a kid. ‘Bare Necessities’ was on constant repeat for every kid my age. And the idea of this jungle kid being raised by animals was just fantastic.
“I think little kids can relate to the theme of finding your family—of discovering what it means to be a family,” continues the actress. “The definition of family is such a personal one and families come in all shapes and sizes. But ultimately, family is made up of the people around you who love you unconditionally.”

The Jungle Book” is an all-new, live-action epic adventure about Mowgli (Neel Sethi), a man-cub raised by a family of wolves. But Mowgli finds he is no longer welcome in the jungle when fearsome tiger Shere Khan (Idris Elba), who bears the scars of Man, promises to eliminate what he sees as a threat. Urged to abandon the only home he’s ever known, Mowgli embarks on a captivating journey of self-discovery, guided by panther-turned-stern mentor Bagheera (Ben Kingsley), and the free-spirited bear Baloo (Bill Murray). Along the way, Mowgli encounters jungle creatures who don’t exactly have his best interests at heart, including Kaa (Scarlett Johansson), a python whose seductive voice and gaze hypnotizes the man-cub, and the smooth-talking King Louie (Christopher Walken), who tries to coerce Mowgli into giving up the secret to the elusive and deadly red flower: fire.
The wild adventure swings into Philippine theaters in 3D on Thursday, April 07. “The Jungle Book” is distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Follow the official social media accounts of Disney in the Philippines, namely, (FB) WaltDisneyStudiosPH, (Twitter) @disneystudiosph and (Instagram) @waltdisneystudiosph and use the hashtag #JungleBookPH.


Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Books: "The Martian" -Prize from Magnavision!



In my previous DVD Feature of "The Martian" I mentioned that there was a raffle stub of sorts that was included in the DVD. The prize was a paperback copy of "The Martian". I loved the book, I already read it as an e-book (Shame! Shame! Yes I know) so it was only natural that I would want a physical copy. It would be a great addition to the humble library and the husband and the sister-in-law might want to read it too. So, I joined the contest and won! Yehey! :) 

I just followed the instructions on the stub, which entailed sending an email and text message and viola! 

I received an email that I won :) 

The book was sent to my preferred Astroplus branch for me to pick up. 

I really appreciate these little tokens, specially since purchasing DVDs may not be viewed as a particularly popular hobby. Can't wait to pick up my next one! 

DVD Feature: "Bridge of Spies"


"Bridge of Spies" has been on my to-buy DVD list for some time now, especially since I really enjoyed the film when I saw it last year and I know Paul would too! True-Story-Historical is really up our alley. Plus Spielberg and Hanks right? :) 

It also definitely helped that Mark Rylance won 'Best Supporting Actor' at the Academy Awards.

The DVD has 2 features, a 'Cold War' feature which even shares a personal Cold War story from Steven Spielberg's own father. Which also includes some interviews with some of the actual people who are part of this amazing true-to-life story. As well as what could be considered a good enough documentary of the time period. Definitely a great addition to the growing collection! 

Monday, March 28, 2016

Movie News: MARVEL'S “CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR'S” CAST, DIRECTOR IN SINGAPORE


Singapore, 28th March 2016 – Cast members and one of the directors of Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War will be making their way to Singapore in April, where Marina Bay Sands will welcome Chris Evans (Captain America), Sebastian Stan (Winter Soldier), Anthony Mackie (Falcon) and director Joe Russo.

As part of the promotion for the latest highly anticipated Marvel release, the stars of the movie will embark on a world tour, which will see them being split into two teams – Team Cap and Team Iron Man – challenging each other on the international stage. Team Cap, led by Chris Evans, will head to Singapore to meet fans and media from the Philippines and across other parts of Asia-Pacific.

Fans will be able to immerse themselves into the Marvel universe with a range of Captain America: Civil War themed activities at Marina Bay Sands Singapore, starting from 21st April. The much anticipated blue-carpet event will be held at the Ice Skating Rink, from 6pm on Thursday, 21st April 2016. More event updates will be announced on http://www.Facebook.com/Marvel/.


Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War opens in the Philippines on April 27.


About Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War 

Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War” finds Steve Rogers leading the newly formed team of Avengers in their continued efforts to safeguard humanity. But after another incident involving the Avengers results in collateral damage, political pressure mounts to install a system of accountability, headed by a governing body to oversee and direct the team. The new status quo fractures the Avengers, resulting in two camps—one led by Steve Rogers and his desire for the Avengers to remain free to defend humanity without government interference, and the other following Tony Stark’s surprising decision to support government oversight and accountability.


Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War” stars Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie, Don Cheadle, Jeremy Renner, Chadwick Boseman, Paul Bettany, Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Rudd, Emily VanCamp, Frank Grillo and Martin Freeman, with William Hurt and Daniel BrĆ¼hl.


Anthony & Joe Russo are directing with Kevin Feige producing. Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Patricia Whitcher, Nate Moore and Stan Lee are the executive producers. The screenplay is by Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely.


Geek Lifestyle: Batman V Superman Dog Tags from Silverworks


Update on Silverworks Batman V Superman Collection! Check out those Dog Tags! 

I've been blogging about the collection for some time now - you can check out the older posts and more awesome jewelry here and here and here.


Don't forget to take photos of your pieces and use the #SWHeroesUnited in your posts! 

Tag @silverworksphil in your photos! :) 

Opinion: Why People Shouldn't Hate On "Batman V Superman"


In recent years, 'Superhero Movies' have saturated the market, think about it- two Spider-Man reboots, which equals to five films. Five X-Men movies, which could be categorized with another movie -'The Good, The Bad and The Ugly', then of course we have 'The Wolverine' movies, I still loathe 'Origins' so much. Then of course we have two 'Avengers' ensemble movies, three 'Iron-Man' movies, two 'Captain America' Movies, two 'Thor' movies, three 'Fantastic Four' movies-which no one seems to get right. I can't even remember if Edward Norton did two 'Hulk' movies. (The husband reminded me that Norton did one and Eric Bana did the other one) Of course we also have the surprise hit 'Guardians of the Galaxy', 'Ant-Man' and the record breaking 'Deadpool'. All of these Marvel properties have created a new genre of movies something kids can follow and enjoy and something the adults don't have to wrap their head around too much. 

Then of course we have the DC Properties which have been releasing 'Batman' and 'Superman' movies way back in the 70's and 80's. Kids may not remember an Adonis like Christopher Reeve as Superman in 1978 or that Gene Hackman played Lex Luthor once. Of course who can forget that even before Micheal Keaton's Oscar-winning performance as "Birdman" he once out on the cape and cowl in a memorable 1992 'Batman Returns' with the equally talented Danny Devito as The Penguin and Michelle Pfeiffer as Catwoman. Keaton also took on "Batman" in the 1989 movie, with Jack Nicholson as "The Joker". Of course, we have Nolan's 'The Dark Knight' trilogy, offering impressive performances from Christian Bale as Batman and of course, Heath Ledger as The Joker. 



The Trinity: Superman and Batman are joined by Wonder Woman in her cinematic debut. 


So you see, there is a whole lot of history here, which makes Batman V Superman more than just what critics have been strongly suggesting. When you look at the grand scheme of things, the film has been a long time coming, with two of the most iconic superheroes finally coming face to face, not to mention the debut of Wonder Woman, after more than 70 years. 

The movie wasn't perfect, there were story telling flaws, plot holes and a pacing problem (I gave it an 8/10 in my review) but considering the rich source material, Snyder and the team, did the best that they could. You can say that DC is playing catch up to Marvel and maybe it is, given that Justice League is coming up, as well as the other origin films but to say that the movie is bad as it was, would be unfair. A lot of people who saw the movie, failed to grasp the greater scheme of things. Nothing is to put it 'simple' in superhero films, it is not a simple 'plot' anymore. Especially considering the cross overs and that they even tackle time travel and multiverse. Perhaps with the  birth of the superhero film genre, we have also created a new genre, new rules when it comes to plot and story telling. 

Not saying that all superhero movies will have these to hide behind from, there are still really bad movies out there (Wolverine: Origins, Fantastic Four) but Batman V Superman is not among them. 

The late Christopher Reeve as 'Superman' (1978). 

I came across an article that explains that Knightmare sequence, you may read it, just so you can get an idea of the bigger and grander scheme of things. Click here. Warning, it is littered with spoilers, don't read if you haven't seen the movie yet. 

Critics didn't like the film when they saw it; which is something that I don't agree with. You might say its because I'm a 'geek' or because I'm a 'fan' because I am - both, so you might say that I am biased and maybe in someways, I am but what people don't stop to consider is the big picture. Sometimes they get caught up in the details and because of that, fail to enjoy the movie. 

Michael Keaton as Batman (1989 and 1992). 


Kids might not get it maybe because they're not supposed to and that's okay, maybe in a few years they will. After they do their research, watch the old movies or start reading the comics. You see, all these superhero movies are just a spec in a larger mythology and something that a movie, even one that is two hours long cannot simply cram. They will do what they can, they will do their best but it won't be enough, it never will be. 

The film was not made for everybody but it was definitely made for the fans, fans who have long waited to witness these two complex and iconic heroes, stand toe-to-toe and face-to-face with each other. While chatting up with my cousin about the film, we talked about how the audiences probably have no idea that their fathers, uncles and grandfathers would have loved to have seen the film and that big 'gladiator match'. There's a lot of history here, these characters have been around for almost 80 years and sometimes we forget that. In the bigger picture, Batman V Superman will just be a notch in their rich discography. 




Sunday, March 27, 2016

BATMAN v SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE” STORMS PH BOX-OFFICE, EARNS P86.65-M ON 1ST DAY


MANILA, March 27, 2016 – Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” took the Philippine box office by storm on its opening day yesterday, earning P86.65-million across 598 screens and setting new box-office records, with no signs of slowing down.

Opening virtually day-and-date across the globe, director Zack Snyder’s highly anticipated follow-up to “Man of Steel” brings Batman and Superman together on the big screen for the first time in history, and is the very first feature film appearance of Wonder Woman, the third Super Hero in DC Comics’ iconic Trinity.

In the Philippines, the film has broken a number of industry records, namely:

  • Biggest Single Day Gross in cinema history, surpassing last year's “Avengers: Age of Ultron's” P83.2-M (Sunday Gross);

  • Biggest Opening Day All-Time Industry-Wide, ahead of “Avengers: Age of Ultron's” P72.7-M (Wed opening);

  • Biggest Saturday Gross All-Time Industry-Wide, eclipsing “Avengers: Age of Ultron's” 

    PhP81.9-M;

  • Biggest WB Opening Day All-Time, beating “Man of Steel's” PhP69-M (Wed - holiday opening) and

  • Biggest Superhero Opening Day, surpassing “Avengers: Age of Ultron's” P72-M.

The announcement was made today by Francis Soliven, General Manager of Warner Bros. Pictures Philippines.


Soliven said, “Anticipation for `Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice' has been building across the country and these incredible results are a testament to not only the enduring appeal of these global icons but the power of the epic cinematic showdown Zack Snyder and his brilliant cast and crew have delivered. We couldn’t be more thrilled with the film’s incredible debut and strong word-of-mouth and repeat business promises to propel its success well into the season.”

From director Zack Snyder comes “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice,” starring Oscar winner Ben Affleck (“Argo”) as Batman/Bruce Wayne and Henry Cavill (“Man of Steel”) as Superman/Clark Kent in the characters’ first big-screen pairing.


Fearing the actions of a god-like Super Hero left unchecked, Gotham City’s own formidable, forceful vigilante takes on Metropolis’s most revered, modern-day savior, while the world wrestles with what sort of hero it really needs. And with Batman and Superman at war with each other, a new threat quickly arises, putting mankind in greater danger than it has ever known before.

Directed by Zack Snyder, the film also stars Oscar nominees Amy Adams as Lois Lane, Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor, Diane Lane as Martha Kent, and Laurence Fishburne as Perry White; Oscar winners Jeremy Irons as Alfred, and Holly Hunter as Senator Finch; and Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman/Diana Prince.

Snyder directed from a screenplay written by Chris Terrio and David S. Goyer, based on characters from DC Comics, including Batman, created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger, and Superman, created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. The film is produced by Charles Roven and Deborah Snyder, with Wesley Coller, Geoff Johns and David S. Goyer serving as executive producers.

Snyder’s behind-the-scenes creative team includes director of photography Larry Fong (“300,” “Watchmen”) and production designer Patrick Tatopoulos (“300: Rise of an Empire”), and from his “Man of Steel” team, editor David Brenner, costume designer Michael Wilkinson, visual effects supervisor John DJ DesJardin, and Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer (“The Lion King”) working in conjunction with composer Junkie XL (“Mad Max: Fury Road”).

Warner Bros. Pictures presents, an Atlas Entertainment/Cruel and Unusual production, a Zack Snyder film, “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.” The film can be seen in IMAX, Dolby Cinema, 3D and 2D, and is being distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.


Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Movie Review: Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice [NON-SPOILER]





Relax. Open your eyes. This is a non-spoiler review and is going to stay that way until the end. 

You may proceed. 

It has been three years since "Man of Steel" and its ambitious follow up "Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice" is nothing short of highly anticipated and unprecedented in the DC Cinematic Universe as two of the most iconic heroes face off in an epic fight of cinematic proportions. 

At the aftermath of the destruction in Metropolis, lives are lost and anger has been sown and now the question of "On whose authority does Superman act on?" -arises. A senate inquisition begins, looking into the actions of the man in the red cape. Among those who believe that "an alien" should be placed in check is Gotham's very own vigilante, Batman, who takes it upon himself to put Superman in his place. But how do you even fight with a god? With a lot of Kryptonite, apparently. 

On the other side of the spectrum, Superman has to be the subject of an inquisition and the recipient of so much loathing, it makes him start doubting himsel but he still goes on, saving a world who hates him. 

What the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel don't know is that, there is an even greater evil lurking within the shadows, ready to unleash chaos. 



There is a lot riding on the success of this film, with a $250 million budget and a $150 million worth in marketing. Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice, is literally all of Warner Bros.'s eggs in one super basket and could also set the tune for the upcoming solo movies, leading up to Justice League but from what I've seen, fans can be rest assured. It is a bet well placed, despite what fans and critics would have thought of as a disaster, with the casting of Ben Affleck as the man in the cowl. 

Where Batfleck got it right

Ever since the first trailer, naysayers of Affleck's casting have been silenced. It's the redemption to his once ill suited role of the blind-lawyer-by-day, vigilante-by-night 'Daredevil'. (the Netflix series is so much better) Early news teased Affleck's take on the Bat as more of the "Old Man Bats" fans would be familiar with and Affleck definitely gave the role his own unique spin. I know it might be too early to say but he might be my favorite Batman now, yes even more than Christian Bale. I really saw the Batman that I grew up knowing in him. I also loved seeing him move on screen. It was all so fluid and seamless. 

We've already seen Henry Cavill take up the red cape as Superman and while I think that he makes a better Clark Kent than Superman, he does look really good in that suit. 



All Hail the Woman in Dawn of Justice 

I must applaud the casting of Gal Gadot as Diana Prince/ Wonder Woman. It is as if she was made for the role. Every time she would appear on screen, you simply cannot take your eyes off her. It seems that the big screen debut of the character, since she first appeared in All Star Comic #8 in Dec. 1941 was worth the wait. Fans will get to see her, in her own feature film next year. 

Her big entrance is easily one of my favorite parts in the movie. Kudos to Hans Zimmer for the choice in music in that scene! :) 



Amy Adam's Lois Lane proves that you don't need superpowers or lots of money to make a difference. She uses her stubborn reporter instincts and quick wit to uncover the truth, in a web of lies and deceit. I laughed at how she would haggle with Lawrence Fishbourne's Perry White for better (and more expensive) means of transportation. 

A Modern Villain in Eisenburg's Lex Luthor 

It's interesting that Lex Luthor was visualized to be the scheming, fast-talking mad genius that Academy Award Nominee Jesse Eisenburg so brilliantly brings to the screen. With the thought of creating a Lex Luthor for 2016, screenwriter Chris Terrio made this younger, brilliant, post-modern villain, who is aware of his own villainy, add that with the damaged psyche and you have this re-imagined Lex Luthor that I can definitely get used to. 




Fans thought that everything was revealed in the trailers but there was a lot of surprises and thrills which kept me at the edge of my seat. It was visually stunning with Snyder pulling out some new tricks out of his sleeve. 

The DC Universe has always been dark and brooding, with it's heroes carrying their own scars and this is what we get in the film. For those who are not familiar with the source material or the 'Universe' itself might have some trouble following but fans would be pleased. It's not 'fun' because it's not supposed to be. Save for Jeremy Iron's Alfred, who is just adorable. 

8 out of 10 Zack Snyder's 'Dawn of Justice' was everything I expected it to be and more. 

I wasn't a fan of that dream sequence though...

I knew I was going to get a "fight night" with 'The Dark Knight' going against 'The Man of Steel' and I got just that. What I didn't expect, was an emotional tug for the characters. There was a heart wrenching twist which just had me dabbing at my eyes. Batman and Superman are arguably the most iconic superheroes ever created, yet the film shows them battling their deepest fears and vulnerabilities and wrestling with their own inner demons. Something that you and me go through everyday. 


Opening across the Philippines in IMAX, Dolby Cinema, 3D and 2D theaters on Black Saturday, March 26, “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” is distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.




Movie News: 10 Cloverfield Lane


I've always thought that "Doomsday Preppers" were interesting in a funny kind of way but no one is laughing in J.J. Abrams' psychological mystery thriller "10 Cloverfield Lane". Which is about a woman (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) who finds herself trapped in a doomsday bunker, waiting out the apocalypse with the neighborhood survivalists (John Goodman, John Gallagher Jr.)

I appreciate that they've managed to keep a good deal of the film under wraps, so much so, that the official synopsis to the film just reads "Monsters come in many forms". 

Described as a “blood relative” to the 2007 smash hit “Cloverfield,” the new film stars John Goodman, Mary Elizabeth Winstead and John Gallagher, Jr. So far, the official synopsis only reads, “Monsters come in many forms.”

Dan Trachtenberg directs “10 Cloverfield Lane” from a screenplay by Josh Campbell and Matt Stuecken. Trachtenberg explains to Empire Magazine how the new film became a “blood relative” to “Cloverfield”:

`Cloverfield’ was a familiar genre that was told in a very unique way. Similarly, we are a familiar genre that’s also told in a unique way. It’s not the same way: the first `Cloverfield’ had that awesome hook of being told in this found-footage experience. We have something else going for us that makes it unique. I think our structure’s very interesting and there’s things in it that you have to experience.”



“10 Cloverfield Lane” connected with American audiences in its opening weekend March 11 to 13, earning a whopping $25.2 million from 3,391 locations. That’s a strong debut considering that the film cost only $13 million to produce.

Paramount vice chairman Rob Moore credited Bad Robot chief J.J. Abrams with coming up with the concept for the twisty thriller while he was in production on “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” He said the key was to make sure that none of the advertisements revealed any of the film’s surprises.

“We wanted to give people just enough clues to keep them excited, interested, and wanting more,” said Moore. “That’s rare in this day and age, when so much [information] is given out so early.”

“10 Cloverfield Lane” also benefitted from positive word-of-mouth and rave reviews, averaging a high 90% score in reviews-aggregator site, Rotten Tomatoes. The critics' consenses was: “Smart, solidly crafted, and palpably tense, `10 Cloverfield Lane' makes the most of its confined setting and outstanding cast -- and suggests a new frontier for franchise filmmaking.”


Opening across the Philippines on April 06, “10 Cloverfield Lane” is distributed by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.



Monday, March 21, 2016

Movie Review: Sakaling Hindi Makarating




I did mention in my previous blog post that I went to High School with the director (now Cine Filipino Best Director) of the award-winning (yes, I will mention "awards" and "Best [insert category]" as often as I can) Indie Film "Sakaling Hindi Makarating", so you might accuse me of being biased with this review and if that's the case, I'll have to tell you that this is easily going to be the most biased review I'm going to write because the movie was beautiful and I loved it! No need to wrestle with my conscience because I would recommend the movie in a heartbeat, without my reputation (for whatever its worth) being tarnished. 

Cielo (Alessandra De Rossi) is picking up the pieces after her boyfriend of eleven years broke off their engagement, two months before the wedding. After moving in her old apartment she begins receiving hand-painted postcards of different places in the Philippines and cryptic messages addressed to a "C" from an "M". With time and money (saved from the would-be wedding in her hands) and some coaxing from her well meaning and friendly neighbor Paul (Pepe Herrera), Cielo sets out to visit the places painted in the postcards, hoping to find the mysterious "M". 


While the 'heartbroken, will travel' plot is nothing new, "Sakaling Hindi Makarating" also puts the dying art of 'letter writing' and 'sending postcards' center stage. With technology making communication easy and instant, we oftentimes take silence and solitude for granted. Some kids today may not even know the anticipation of waiting for a reply from a letter you sent or at the joy of receiving something in the mail. I hope teachers still include Letter Writing in today's curriculum (Someone obviously wasn't listening in class :p) I remember doing exercises for these back in my Grade School days. I used to write letters to my cousin who lived in ParaƱque while I lived in Antipolo, during the summer. I really hope and pray kids today still know how to write letters, sometimes it reflects in emails I read at work or even in Press Releases I receive (and these are from "Professionals").

 Please don't let it be a dying art, I will rue the day when 'jejemon spelling' becomes the norm  and one letter responses (Yes, 'K' I'm looking at you; becomes acceptable). 


The film gives you a bad case of Wanderlust which is not good for jaded and broke people like me T_T but I'll just look at it as an inspiration to one day, one day get to go on at least that vacation. When the film  moves back to the busy bus terminals in Manila, I'm suddenly revolted with the cars, the buses, the traffic, the pollution and all the buildings, a sight which I see everyday ironically. 

It's embarrassing to say that I wasn't even aware of the colorful Vinta Regata festival in Zamboanga, until I saw it in the film or that Batanes has such beautiful landscapes. The film just makes you want to pack a bag and go! No plans, no itineraries. Just get on a plane, a bus, a boat and just go. Not a bad idea with the many, many beautiful places you can visit in the Philippines. 

In Cielo's travels, she learns how to swim ('We learn how to swim before we learn how to be afraid of the water'), and even how to ride a motorcycle. Along with these new set of skills, Cielo also meets a colorful cast of characters in the places she visits, each one helping her more than she realizes. 



8.5 out of 10, "Sakaling Hindi Makarating" culminates in a fun and refreshing twist, solving the mystery of the postcards and with Cielo finding more than what she intended to when she first set out on her journey. It's a light and reflective piece with beautiful cinematography and impressive sweeping aerial shots, bringing justice to each paradise Cielo visited. 

Congratulations to "Sakaling Hindi Makarating" for winning the following Cine Filipino Awards

2nd Best Picture
Best Director - Ice Idanan
Best Actor - Pepe Herrera
Best Cinematography - Ice Idanan
Best Musical Score - Mon Espia
Best Sound - Raffy Magsaysay
Best Editing - Hannah Espia 

This is the first Inide film I wrote about and I look forward to getting to write more. It's funny how it had to take a High School batch mate of mine to direct one for me to really make time to go to the cinema, even on a hot Sunday afternoon. 



FOOD: Greenwich-SM Angono Pizza Party!


Pizza and Pasta have always been on my all-time-favorite foods-ever and Greenwich has always been a go-to source when the craving sets in. I love their Lasagna so much that Paul would complain whenever we go on consecutive Greenwich visits. He becomes very much willing to go, though when we are at SM Megamall, where the Greenwich branch serves beer, so go figure. 

Angono Mayor Gerardo Calderon and Vice Mayor Antonio Rubin at the Pizza Party along with the Management of Greenwich and SM Angono. 

Beer or no beer, I'm just happy that there's a new Greenwich around our area and that's the one in SM Angono. I also love that it follows their new brick walled Art Deco inspired hip interior design. So just imagine the joy of the little pizza lover in me when we were invited for their first ever Pizza Party! :) 

In attendance were Mayor Gerlado Calderon and Vice Mayor Antonio Rubin as well as local residents and folks from the school districts and local media. We were served their tasty signature pizza dishes, wacky wings, as well as their new summer drink- Pineapple slush :) I also got to try their new cheesy bread sticks. They're pretty good with the tomato dip that goes with it ^_^

Probably the highlight of the pizza party was the pizza eating contest (which Paul got to participate in) :p Winners were awarded with Free Pizza for a year cards! We were also seranaded with an acoustic performance as we got to stuff ourself with Greenwich goodies, not bad for a Saturday night eh? :) 

Click here for more photos!







Movie News: NEW "Warcraft" Poster & TV Spot is Out!



Some of my gamer friends have been asking me about updates on the upcoming "Warcraft" movie-well here you go! Sink your teeth in a new movie poster, new image and new TV Spot! 

A new one-sheet art and exhilarating TV spot has just been unveiled by Universal Pictures and Legendary for “Warcraft,” the epic adventure of world-colliding conflict based on Blizzard Entertainment’s global phenomenon. Watch the TV spot at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvlGM6ikW0U. You can also watch the video below. 

In the film, the peaceful realm of Azeroth stands on the brink of war as its civilization faces a fearsome race of invaders: Orc warriors fleeing their dying home to colonize another. As a portal opens to connect the two worlds, one army faces destruction and the other faces extinction. From opposing sides, two heroes are set on a collision course that will decide the fate of their family, their people and their home.



So begins a spectacular saga of power and sacrifice in which war has many faces, and everyone fights for something.


Directed by Duncan Jones (“Moon,” “Source Code”) and written by Charles Leavitt and Jones, the film stars Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster, Dominic Cooper, Toby Kebbell, Ben Schnetzer, Rob Kazinsky and Daniel Wu.

You may know Travis Fimmel as Ragnar Lodbrook ini "Vikings" we always see his face on TV since we often watch History Channel, not "Vikings" though, that one was fallen out of our to-watch list a long time ago, although I like Fimmel as Ragnar, it really suits him. Which is probably why I'm looking forward to seeing him on  the big screen. I think casting him in "Warcraft" was also spot on.

I saw a video clip of Robert Kazinsky being interviewed by Conan O'Brien, in the interview he talks about how "Warcraft" saved his life. You might recognize him as the Australian Jaeger pilot, Chuck Hansen in "Pacific Rim". You probably won't recognize him in "Warcraft" though, as he is playing an orc named Orgrim Doomhammer. Most of his work is MOCAP, which he says has been "one of the greatest experiences of my life."  

So what do you guys think? 

Opening across the Philippines in June 2016, “Warcraft” will be distributed by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.