Tuesday, February 28, 2017

MOVIES: EMMA WATSON CAPTURES YOUR HEART AS BELLE IN “BEAUTY AND THE BEAST”


Known to global audiences as the spunky and smart wizard Hermione in the Harry Potter franchise, Emma Watson is now poised to be fondly remembered as Belle, the shrewd villager who yearns for adventure, in the live-action retelling of Disney's Beauty and the Beast.

For over a decade, the British actress has charmed audiences playing the quick-witted and tenacious Hogwarts student in the Potter films and in films including The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Noah and The Bling Ring. In addition, she has a highly-visible role as a human rights activist and global goodwill ambassador for the United Nations, something which has become her life’s calling.

Of all the female characters in all the Disney films, she has always been drawn to – and most identifies with – Belle.

MOVIES: BRAND NEW “LIFE” POSTERS WARN HUMANS “WERE BETTER OFF ALONE”


“We were better off alone,” says the mysterious tagline of one of two newly released posters for Columbia Pictures' upcoming outer space sci-fi thriller, Life from director Daniel Espinosa and starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Rebecca Ferguson and Ryan Reynolds.

The three leads are featured together in astronaut uniforms in the second one-sheet. Take a look at the posters below and watch Life when it opens in Philippine cinemas on March 24, 2017.

Life also stars Olga Dihovichnaya, Ariyon Bakare and Hiroyuki Sanada.

The film tells the story of the six-member crew of the International Space Station that is on the cutting edge of one of the most important discoveries in human history: the first evidence of extraterrestrial life on Mars. As the crew begins to conduct research and their methods end up having unintended consequences, the life form proves more intelligent than anyone ever expected.

Life is written by Paul Wernick & Rhett Reese (Deadpool) and produced by David Ellison (Star Trek reboot), Dana Goldberg, Bonnie Curtis and Julie Lynn.

Life is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

MOVIES: NEW “GHOST IN THE SHELL” BANNERS EXUDE FUTURISTIC VIBE


Paramount Pictures has just unveiled two banners for its upcoming action-thriller Ghost in the Shell that sell the futuristic tone of the film, while showcasing Scarlett Johansson's kick-ass physique.

Directed by Rupert Sanders, the film also stars “Beat” Takeshi Kitano, Michael Carmen Pitt, Pilou Asbaek, Chin Han and Juliette Binoche.

Check out the posters below and watch Ghost in the Shell in Philippine cinemas starting March 29, 2017.

In the near future, Major (Scarlett Johansson) is the first of her kind: A human saved from a terrible crash, who is cyber-enhanced to be a perfect soldier devoted to stopping the world’s most dangerous criminals. When terrorism reaches a new level that includes the ability to hack into people’s minds and control them, Major is uniquely qualified to stop it. As she prepares to face a new enemy, Major discovers that she has been lied to: her life was not saved, it was stolen. She will stop at nothing to recover her past, find out who did this to her and stop them before they do it to others.

The film is based on the internationally acclaimed Japanese Manga, “The Ghost in the Shell.”



Ghost in the Shell is distributed by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.

Monday, February 27, 2017

MOVIES: EWAN McGREGOR BACK AS RENTON IN “T2 TRAINSPOTTING”



Scottish actor Ewan McGregor (Moulin Rogue, The Island) returns to his breakthrough role of Mark Renton in Columbia Pictures' T2: Trainspotting, the eagerly anticipated sequel to the 1996 milestone film, Trainspotting.

The sequel will be shown exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas (Glorietta 4 and Trinoma) starting March 1, 2017.

Joining McGregor are his original castmates, Ewan Bremner as Spud, Jonny Lee Miller as Sick Boy, and Robert Carlyle as Begbie.

MOVIES: DIRECTOR LASSE HALSTROM GETS CRITICAL PRAISE FOR “A DOG'S PURPOSE”


One of the world’s most renowned directors, Lasse Halstrom is best known to audiences as the maker of such poignant but resolutely unsentimental films as My Life as a Dog, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape and The Cider House Rules.

His newest film, A Dog's Purpose shares the heartwarming and surprising story of one devoted dog who finds the meaning of his own existence through the lives of the humans he teaches to laugh and love.

The director claims it is no accident he was attracted to the material: “I made two movies about dogs previously—My Life as a Dog and Haichi—so this is my third dog story. If you have an interest in outsiders and emotions that seems irrational to humans, you can certainly relate to a dog’s feelings and a dog’s life.”

MOVIES: TOM HIDDLESTON TAKES ON THE MONSTER KING IN “KONG: SKULL ISLAND”


One of today's most popular actors, Tom Hiddleston (Crimson Peak, Thor) stars in Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures' new action Kong: Skull Island as British SAS officer, Captain James Conrad.

In the film, a diverse team of explorers is brought together to venture deep into an uncharted island in the Pacific – as beautiful as it is treacherous – unaware that they’re crossing into the domain of the mythic Kong.

James Conrad is sent to Vietnam to teach jungle warfare and survival techniques to American troops, but as the war comes to an end, he becomes something of a lost and disillusioned soul. Recruited as a tracker for supposedly scientic expedition, Conrad’s raw courage, survival skills and understanding of nature could represent the exploration’s best shot at making it off the island alive.

Movie Review: Fist Fight



Did you ever have one of those days where you felt like the last day of school was a really, really, long day? Well Charlie Day sure has one of those long days in the adult comedy "Fist Fight". 

A kind English teacher being pushed around by both students and teachers, Charlie Day's Andy Campbell is just on the edge. His wife is about to give birth to their second child at any moment. He is under so much pressure at school since his job is on the line, what with budget cuts and all. Not only that but last day in Roosevelt High also means having to endure senior pranks which is pretty much what it is, a going away tradition where in the senior class gets to do pranks, all over the school and to whomever, teacher or principal. The pranks in the movie are a little over the top but its a real thing. 

As if all of these were not enough. Mr. Campbell finds himself being the ire of the school's most frightening teacher, Ron Strickland played by Ice Cube. I have to give props to Ice Cube, who just seemed angry the entire movie, like I was the one who was getting tired because he was so angry all the time. It was just hilarious. Strickland has completely lost it and challenges Campbell to a fist fight after school, one where the only outcome would be Campbell coming out a bloody mess. 

While Campbell does everything he can to prevent the big #TeacherFight - everyone in school has heard about it and is looking forward to seeing two teachers slug it out. 



Andy Campbell might not know it yet but this "Fist Fight" might be what he and the school - with so much budget cuts and a dysfunctional administration needs but the question is, will he survive it? 

The movie goes on with the audience not really sure how everything would end, which can both keep you guessing but can also be frustrating at times. From someone who studied in an exclusive school from pre-school to High School, this light on the American Public School was really shocking but of course most of it is just for the movie----right? 

The movie wraps up pretty nicely with some surprise punches (pun intended) - like the message of standing up against bullies and "dropping the mic" on them. 

6.5 out of 10. "Fist Fight" is now showing in cinemas!  

TV NEWS: E! DELIVERS EXTENSIVE COVERAGE OF THE BIGGEST NIGHT IN FILM WHEN LIVE FROM THE RED CARPET: THE 2016 ACADEMY AWARDS AIRS ON MONDAY, 27 FEBRUARY AT 6:30AM (PRIMETIME ENCORE AT 8:05PM)



E! News Covers The Big Event from All Angles: In Real Time on E! Online, Along With Full Coverage The Following Night On E! News on Tuesday, 28 February at 8PM


Fashion Police Co-Hosts Melissa Rivers, Giuliana Rancic and Brad Goreski and Margaret Cho Take On the Star-Studded Show’s Major Fashion Moments On Wednesday, 1 March at 9pm

MANILA – 23 Feb 2017 – This Monday, the biggest names in film join together to celebrate the 89th annual Academy Awards alongside hosts Ryan Seacrest, Giuliana Rancic and the rest of E!’s Live From the Red Carpet team who will be on-hand to bring the most extensive, multi-platform coverage of the high-profile event.  Kicking off on 27 February at 6:30am (Primetime encore at 8:05pm), E! will deliver the most surprising and memorable celebrity interviews, candid behind-the-scenes moments and unforgettable fashion live on-air, online and on social to pop culture fans around the globe.

Hosts Ryan Seacrest and Giuliana Rancic hits this most famous red carpet for fascinating, authentic and always surprising interviews with some of the biggest stars in Hollywood during Live From the Red Carpet.  Giuliana Rancic

E!’s extensive multi-platform coverage boasts the returns of the fan favourite “E! Glambots”, which capture celebrities in all their slow-mo glamour. E!’s Style Collective, which includes some of the biggest names in the beauty industry, will provide instant how-to’s of the hottest celebrity looks of the night. And E!’s engaged, pop culture-loving viewers can also chat about their red carpet experience in real-time with the E! hosts and fellow fans through Instagram, Twitter and Facebook for a chance for their posts to be read on-air or online.

On 28 February at 8PM, continue the Oscars celebrations with a special edition of E! News, followed by Melissa Rivers, Giuliana Rancic, Brad Goreski, Margaret Cho and Tim Gunn hilariously recapping and reviewing all of the night’s fashions and over-the-top ensembles on Fashion Police on 1 March at 9pm.




E! NEWS


Fans around the world have never been this connected to the red carpet as E! News presents 24/7 coverage across all platforms for a 360 degree look and minute-to-minute updates from this highly-anticipated Hollywood event.  Pop culture fans can take part in all of the action at E! Online, on the E! Online mobile app, @eonline across social platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Periscope), as well as @stylecollective and @E_News on Snapchat.  E! Online (www.eonline.com) will feature all the up-to-the-minute news, interviews, photos, style and beauty breakdowns, videos and social action from the event as it happens.  Plus, the incredibly popular instagrammers, @girlwithnojob and @betches, give their own hilarious Oscar commentary through Memes on the site.

Additionally E!’s digital content team will bring exclusive behind-the-scenes Oscar show moments that you won’t see on TV.

Across social, catch every moment as the event unfolds and get exclusive behind-the-scenes content on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook using the hashtag #Eredcarpet and on Snapchat using the handle @e_news.  E! Style Collective experts will reveal full breakdowns of a celebrity’s most sought after red carpet looks.  Plus, E!’s on-air coverage will feature social content from celebrities, E! talent, and of course, the fans, chatting about the show in real-time.


Live From The Red Carpet: The 89th Annual Academy Awards Airs on Monday, 27 February at 6:30am / 8:05pm

With more cameras than anybody else, the network will once again dominate the red carpet landscape by offering viewers the unparalleled access and a multiplatform viewing experience that fans have come to expect.  As the world watches, E!'s host Ryan Seacrest will go one-on-one with some of the biggest stars in film on the red carpet.  Joined by Giuliana Rancic from the exclusive E! Skybox overlooking the limo drop, E!’s team will bring the true magic of the red carpet to viewers around the world – delivering the most genuine celebrity conversations and buzzworthy interviews and capturing every spontaneous moment of the night.  And E!’s on-screen “Star Stats” are back to provide new information and additional insight about both the fresh faces on the carpet and the veteran red carpet attendees alike.



E! News Airs on Tuesday, 28 February at 8pm 
Following the big event, E! News’ Jason Kennedy, Maria Menounos and team will break down all of the night’s biggest headlines – from the red carpet moments you didn’t see to the backstage interviews, parties, and more!

Fashion Police: The 89th Annual Academy Awards airs on Wednesday, 1 March at 9pm
After all the awards have been handed out, the fun continues when the Fashion Police report for duty.  Co-host and executive producer Melissa Rivers, co-host and consulting producer Giuliana Rancic, and co-host Brad Goreski, along with special co-host Margaret Cho, will hilariously break down all of the glitz, glamour and fashion from the 89th annual Oscars as well as the star-studded after parties.  Fans can weigh in on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook using the hashtag #FashionPolice.

Through E!’s camera technology, unmatched second screen viewing on digital, mobile and social, and personal relationships with the stars, Live From the Red Carpet will truly take fans behind the velvet rope for all of the exciting, spontaneous, and headline-making moments as they happen, and bring viewers the unique and authentic interviews that pop culture fans crave.  And catch E! News for the latest newsworthy Oscar headlines on Tuesday, 28 February at 8pm, followed by the laugh-out-loud antics of E!’s Fashion Police on Wednesday, 29 February at 9pm

Nights like these start with E! when Live From The Red Carpet: The 89th Annual Academy Awards airs Monday, 27 February at 6:05am (Primetime Encore 8:05pm)


Events: Sky Cable Hosts Oscar Trivia Night


Talk about putting your Oscars knowledge to the test. Because it is Oscars Week, Sky Cable,  together with HBO and E! hosted its first ever trivia night, with of course the questions coming from this year's Oscar Nominations, past Oscar highlights and a special round for HBO and E! plus a bonus round featuring the much talked about Red Carpet looks. 

We arrived when dinner was well on the way for guests at Ludo Board game Bar and Bistro in Makati. It was a good thing that Paul was on a day off last Thursday. 

Being a movie buff myself I was really excited. I did a little reviewing during my breaks at work but I can say that because of work and well the baby's insatiable need for sleep, I wasn't really able to sit down for a recent review. It doesn't mean that we did bad, I think we did pretty good - considering. Well, I  have to give up to the winners who were really, really good. I mean the answers even to the Best Foreign Language Film categories, even answers like "Il Postino" -well just goes to show that I really have a lot to review, cover, I mean when we talk about the Oscars, that's over 89 years of movie history right there! Its one of Hollywood's most celebrated evenings and well, for the past years, I've always enjoyed staying at home and watching the Oscars on TV, I would usually prepare a little Oscar snack and just sit back and enjoy the show. 

#OscarTriviaNight just made it more enjoyable! Now I know a lot of new Oscar Trivia! :) -like which Actor was the first to be nominated for a posthumous award (Answer: James Dean) and that "La La Land" ties with "Titanic" and "All About Eve" with 14 nominations, for the most nominations for a movie, in Oscar history. Hahahah I know its very geeky of me, but its this kind of trivia that really lights my brain up! 

Congratulations to the winning team who took home P 40,000 in prizes (yes, you read that right) and of course bragging rights! 

Thanks for having us Sky :) We had a blast! 



Click HERE for MORE PHOTOS! 

TV NEWS: HBO AND SKY TO FLY TWO LUCKY VIEWERS TO CHINAWOOD AND HOLLYWOOD



HBO and SKY bring lucky viewers to two of the biggest places in show business, the epicenter of everything showbiz, Hollywood, and the largest production lot in the world, Hengdian World Studios or Chinawood.

As the biggest and brightest stars in Hollywood gather for one night to celebrate the art and majesty of filmmaking at the Academy Awards, SKY subscribers who will catch the live airing will have the chance to fly to the 2018 edition of the planet‟s most prestigious entertainment gathering.

The promo is open to all SKY subscribers with One SKY, SKYcable, Destiny Cable, and SKYdirect plans. The subscriber should be at least 21 years of age and should watch the live airing of The Oscars® on HBO on Monday, February 27, 2017 at 8 AM. Look out for the question that will be flashed during the live telecast. Submit your answer via the official promo page, www.mysky.com.ph/oscars. The page will be up from February 27, 2017 to March 19, 2017 and the winner will be drawn on March 31. Check out the promo page for more information.


The winner and a companion will get the chance to win seats at the red carpet of the 2018
Academy Awards in Los Angeles.

The Oscars® is a night of elegance and luxury. It is one of the most prestigious award giving bodies for filmmaking and everything else it entails – from scriptwriting to acting, to musical scoring, production and costume design. The Academy is more than just glamour as it aims to bolster education, innovation, and preservation of materials in the industry.

Another viewer can take a whirlwind tour of China, from the Forbidden City to the Yangtze
River, from Guangzhou to Hong Kong, all in one day as Red by HBO and SKY bring a lucky
viewer and a companion to the Hengdian World Studios in China, the largest film and television production lot in Asia and maybe even the world. Located in the Zhejian Province, „Chinawood,‟ as it is also called, spans 2,500 acres, and is divided into 13 shooting bases.

HBO Asia original movies “Master of the Drunken Fist: Beggar So” and “Master of the
Shadowless Kick: Wong Kei-Ying” were filmed at Hengdian World Studios. Philippines viewers can still catch both movies on RED By HBO in March.

Red by HBO and SKY will bring one lucky SKY subscriber with SKYcable or Destiny Cable
plans and a loved one to the Hengdian World Studios this April! Just fill out an entry form at www.mysky.com.ph/hengdianpromo. There will be 10 consolation winners who will get goodies from Red by HBO. The promo is also open to Destiny Cable subscribers. Contest ends on March 19.

Singapore-based HBO Asia brings the best of Hollywood to Asia first through its exclusive
licensing deals with major Hollywood and independent studios. HBO Asia has proprietary and award-winning HBO and HBO Asia Original programmes produced exclusively for HBO viewers. Wholly owned by HBO (a Time Warner company), HBO Asia reaches 23 territories across Asia with six 24-hour commercial-free subscription movie channels: HBO, HBO Signature, HBO Family, HBO Hits and Cinemax, as well as Red by HBO, internet streaming platform, HBO GO, subscription video on demand service, HBO On Demand, and in China, 鼎级剧场 (ding ji ju chang). HBO Asia is also the exclusive distributor of BabyFirst and the DreamWorks channel inthe region. Log on to www.hboasia.com for more information.

SKY continues to offer viewers with diverse options to enjoy TV entertainment with its value and premium service offerings. Only SKYcable provides quality home entertainment with the widest range of standard and high definition channels and other top-of-the-line services such as flexible subscription options via SELECT, iRECORD that records, pauses, and rewinds live TV, as well as real-time coverage of live concerts and sporting events via FREE VIEW and PAY-PERVIEW. To subscribe and to know more about SKYcable, log on to www.mysky.com.ph, text APPLY <space> your name to 23662, or call the 24-hour customer service hotlines at 381-0000 for Metro Manila, CAMANAVA, and Rizal; 484-4701 for Cavite; 534-2814 for Calamba and Binan, Laguna; 520-8560 for San Pedro, Laguna and Carmona, Cavite; 693-5877 for Bulacan; 421-1818 for Cebu; 305-5456 for Davao; 442-4841 for Baguio; 432-0051 for Bacolod; 300-1210for Iloilo;533-6244 for GenSan.

Enjoy over 90 channels in clear digital signal for only P550 per month with Destiny Cable. For inquiries about the services and promos of Destiny Cable call 418-0000. You may also contact Destiny Cable via email address, weserve@destinycable.com.ph.

Friday, February 24, 2017

MOVIES: MATT REEVES TO DIRECT, PRODUCE “THE BATMAN”



Burbank, CA – February 23, 2017 – Warner Bros. Pictures announced today that Matt Reeves (“Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” “Cloverfield”) has been set to direct “The Batman.” Reeves will also serve as a producer on the new standalone action adventure centering on one of DC’s most enduringly popular Super Heroes. The announcement was made by Toby Emmerich, President and Chief Content Officer, Warner Bros. Pictures Group.

Emmerich stated, “We are thrilled to have Matt Reeves taking the helm of Batman, the crown jewel of our DC slate. Matt’s deep roots in genre films and his evolution into an emotional world-building director make him the perfect filmmaker to guide the Dark Knight through this next journey.”

Matt Reeves noted, “I have loved the Batman story since I was a child. He is such an iconic and compelling character, and one that resonates with me deeply. I am incredibly honored and excited to be working with Warner Bros. to bring an epic and emotional new take on the Caped Crusader to the big screen.”

Batman was created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger.

“The Batman” will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

MOVIES: “LOGAN” MIDNIGHT SCREENINGS SET ON MARCH 1, WEDNESDAY (12:01AM) NATIONWIDE


Responding to the fever-pitch anticipation of Hugh Jackman’s “Logan”, the most eager of cineastes who want to see it first can finally catch the movie on its midnight screenings (12:01am) set on March 1, Wednesday in Philippine theatres nationwide (check your nearest favorite theatres).

Starring Hugh Jackman in the title role, “Logan” is directed by James Mangold that also stars a powerhouse of a cast that includes Patrick Stewart, Boy Holbrook, Stephen Merchant, Richard E. Grant and newcomer Dafne Keen. A standalone story that sees Jackman in the final chapter of his Wolverine alter-ego, the movie brings the iconic hero at a crossroads that will finally define his destiny.

The film takes place more than 50 years after the events depicted in “X-Men: Days of Future Past” and is its own standalone tale that plays more like an intimate family journey but is also packed with high-stakes action scenes.  When the film opens, Logan is in a vulnerable and broken state, the curse of his immortality wearing heavy on him as he cares for a weakened Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart) in a derelict smelting plant at the edge of an abandoned oil field. They’re joined there by a third mutant, Caliban (The Office co-creator Stephen Merchant), sheltering in obscurity at a time when the world believes mutants have passed into history.

But Logan’s days of drinking in relative solitude are interrupted when he finds himself the reluctant guardian of a young girl, Laura (Keen) who has powers remarkably like his own, from her hands as well as her feet spring the same adamantium claws as Wolverine’s. Not that he’s exactly eager to accept this newfound responsibility—he’s far too weary to play the hero once more.

Tasked with protecting her from the murderous cybernetic criminal Donald Pierce (Holbrook), Logan and Professor X set out to cross hostile territory to ferry Laura to a place called Eden, where young mutants are said to enjoy safe haven. But Pierce and his fearsome army of cyborg Reavers are determined to return the girl to the custody of Dr. Zander Rice (Grant), the sinister geneticist behind Alkali who triggered her mutations through a series of inhumane experiments in the hopes of creating a child super-soldier.    



“Logan” further unleashes its claws a few hours after its midnight screenings (with more screens) on March 1 in cinemas nationwide from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros. Also available in IMAX (2D) screens.   The movie is rated R-16 by the MTRCB.

Here's a list of confirmed theaters for LOGAN's Midnight Screening

Century 2D
Eastwood 2D
EVIA MX4D
Fishermall 2D
Gaisano Davao 2D
Gaisano Tagum 2D
Gateway ATMOS
Glorietta 4 2D
Greenbelt 3 2D
Newport 2D
Powerplant ATMOS
SM Aura 2D & IMAX
SM BF 2D
SM Cebu IMAX
SM Clark 2D
SM Fairview 2D
SM Light Mall 2D
SM Mall of Asia IMAX
SM Megamall IMAX
SM North Edsa IMAX
SM Pampanga 2D
Starmall Alabang ATMOS
Starmall EDSA 2D
Starmall Las Piñas 2D
Starmall San Jose ATMOS
Trinoma 2D
Vista Bataan ATMOS
Vista Pampanga ATMOS
Vista Sta. Rosa ATMOS
Vista Taguig ATMOS

MOVIES: NEW BREED OF SUPERHEROES IN RUSSIAN ACTION MOVIE “GUARDIANS”


In the end of 1945, after Germany and Japan have fallen in the WWII, an incredible team of mutant superheroes rise to stop the world’s smartest and deadliest villain in the latest badass non-stop blockbuster Russian action movie “Guardians” aka Zaschitniki.

“Guardians” are borne from the genetic experiments performed by Nazi doctors who were trying to create a super soldier.  The German doctors carried on with their experiments to the territories Germany occupied during the war – France, UK, Spain, Poland and USSR.  Meanwhile United States intelligence reported that there are definitely traces of superhumans in the States.  Dictator Stalin has no choice but to create “Patriot” – a super secret defence and research organization, so secret and dear to him that he has his right hand – Lavrenty Beria – helming it.

Time went on and “Patriot” proved to be non-viable economically hence Beria’s recommendations to shut the whole thing down.  But Stalin was not the one who was giving up that easily.  However he did not live long enough to see the first results. Spring of 1953 he dies after a long lasting illness.  Nikita Khruschev, a simple man of simple ideas, takes charge and it was only natural for him to shut down “Patriot”, which he would’ve done if the news from the Moscow lab wouldn’t have saved the whole program.

Professor Dobronravov was able to complete several successful experiments which resulted in creation of Khan (played by Sanzhar Madiyev) whose main weapon are his blades and who has superhuman strength and moves fast enough to make it appear that he is teleporting;  Ler, aka Rockneto is played Sebastien Sisak, who manipulates rocks to make him levitate; Arsus (Anton Pampushnyy), whose power is to transform into a half-man, half-bear and Ksenia (Alina Lanina) who has the ability to manipulate water and can even become invisible. For years, the heroes had to hide their identities, but in hard times they must show themselves again."



“Guardians” opens in cinemas on March 8 from Purple Media to be released by Axinite Digicinema.  Trailer link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPzUKQTbl58

MOVIES: BESTSELLING INSPIRATIONAL BOOK ON FAITH “THE SHACK” NOW A MOVIE


Based on the phenomenally successful New York Times best-selling novel of the same title by author William P. Young, “The Shack” takes us on a father’s transformative and spiritual journey that will show him the ultimate truth about love, loss, and forgiveness.

Oscar winner Octavia Spencer stars with Sam Worthington, Radha Mitchell and Tim McGraw in the faith-based book-to-movie adaptation of “The Shack”.  From all appearances, Mackenzie Phillips (Worthington) seems to have a good life; three great kids, a beautiful wife Nan (Mitchell), lovely home — nothing seems amiss.  But, when Mack takes the kids for an overnight camping trip, what starts out as a fun getaway soon turns into a parent’s most horrifying nightmare — his youngest daughter, Missy, is abducted from their campsite and her body is never recovered.  Facing a crisis of faith, he receives a mysterious letter urging him to an abandoned shack deep in the Oregon wilderness. He journeys to the shack and encounters an enigmatic trio of strangers led by a woman named Papa (Spencer). Through this meeting, Mack finds important truths that will transform his understanding of his tragedy and change his life forever.

“The Shack” debuted and stayed on the New York Times Bestsellers List at No.1 for over 70 weeks. Supportive and passionate word-of-mouth soon propelled the book into the hands of mainstream readers where book sales have soared past 22 million copies and is currently published in forty languages.  The Shack’s book sales, denoting 22 million copies has impacted millions around the world. For producer Gil Netter, the groundswell of personal stories about the book’s impact was an everyday occurrence on set. “So many people wanted to be a part of this project and they all have their own private reasons,” says Netter. “Whether it’s a crewmember, an extra or someone from the neighborhood where we shot, someone would share a story on how The Shack affected them or someone close to them. It was incredible.”

MOVIES: AYALA MALLS CINEMAS’ 2ND WAVE OF CINEMA CLASSICS FILIPINO FILMS IN RETROSPECT AT GLORIETTA AND TRINOMA FROM MARCH 1 – 7


After the success of the Cinema Classics at U.P. Town Center early this January, Ayala Malls Cinemas in partnership with ABS-CBN Film Restorations Group bring another round of spectacular movies from the archives that are now masterfully digitalized for better appreciation in the big screen of today.

“Cinema Classics is bigger now as we hold it simultaneously at Glorietta and TriNoma to serve our north and south moviegoers. We have more choices with really well-loved films that I’m sure the fans would love again to see in the cinemas. We have One More Chance of John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo which is celebrating its 10th year this year. We have a Nora Aunor starrer, Tatlong Taon Walang Diyos celebrating its 40th year, with the Superstar’s showbiz anniversary also now at its golden year. And of course, the much-awaited premiere Hihintayin Kita Sa Langit top-billed by the classic Richard Gomez and Dawn Zulueta loveteam. There are really a lot to look forward to” says Amir V. Precilla, General Manager of Ayala Malls Cinemas.

“Hihintayin Kita Sa Langit” directed by Carlos Siguion-Reyna will be premiered at Ayala Malls Cinemas at Glorietta on February 27. A story about Don Joaquin (Jose Mari Avellana) adopts the young orphan Gabriel (Jomari Yllana/Richard Gomez) who grows up in a sprawling hacienda with her daughter Carmina (Guila Alvarez/Dawn Zulueta) and his son Milo (Gio Alvarez/Mark Gil). Carmina loves to fantasize about royalty and being a princess. All is well for Gabriel until the old Don dies and the malevolent son Milo throws Gabriel out of the house to live in the stable as a farm hand. Carmina and Gabriel, being passionately in love, spend all their time together on a promontory near the sea until Carmina meets the rich and prominent Alan Ilustre (Eric Quizon), who dazzles her with expensive gifts and his wealth. Carmina begins to doubt her future with poor Gabriel. Overhearing Carmina's sentiments, Gabriel is heartbroken and goes away to return after a few years with his vengeance.

Cinema Classics will also feature films that include Olivia Lamasan’s “Madrasta” (1996) (Sharon Cuneta, Christopher De Leon, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Claudine Barretto), “Minsan Minahal Kita” (2000) (Sharon Cuneta, Richard Gomez, Edu Manzano), “Got To Believe” (2002) (Rico Yan, Claudine Barretto, Dominic Ochoa) and “In My Life” (2009) (Vilma Santos, John Lloyd Cruz, Luis Manzano); Laurice Guillen’s “Tanging Yaman” (2000) (Gloria Romero, Johnny Delgado, Hilda Koronel); Rory Quintos’ “Anak” (2000) (Vilma Santos, Claudine Barretto); Carlitos Siguion Reyna’s “Ang Lalaki Sa Buhay Ni Selya” (1998) (Rosanna Roces, Ricky Davao); Marilou Diaz-Abaya’s “Karnal” (1983) (Charito Solis, Philip Salvador), Peque Gallaga’s “Oro Plata Mata” (1983) (Liza Lorena, Cherrie Gil, Sandy Andolong); Danny Zialcita’s “Nagalit Ang Buwan Sa Haba Ng Gabi” (1983) (Dindo Fernando, Gloria Diaz, Eddie Garcia, Laurice Guillen); Jerry Lopez Sineneng’s “Labs Kita Okey Ka Lang?” (1998) (Marvin Agustin, Jolina Magdangal); Cathy Garcia-Molina’s “One More Chance” (2007) (John Lloyd Cruz, Bea Alonzo).



Get your tickets now at www.sureseats.com . You may also check Ayala Malls Cinemas Facebook page, Twitter @iLoveSureseats and Instagram @iLoveAyalaMallsCinemas for updates. Experience it best at Ayala Malls Cinemas!

Thursday, February 23, 2017

MOVIES: CHARLIE DAY CONFRONTS “FIST FIGHT” OF HIS LIFE IN NEW COMEDY


Charlie Day has gained a loyal following among both critics and fans all over the world for his work in films and on television. Now he stars in New Line Cinema’s comedy Fist Fight, opposite Ice Cube as high school teachers prepared to solve their differences the hard way.

On the last day of the school year, mild-mannered high school English teacher Andy Campbell (Charlie Day) is trying his best to keep it together amidst outrageous senior pranks, a dysfunctional administration and budget cuts that are putting his job on the line just as his wife is expecting their second baby.

But things go from bad to worse when Campbell crosses the school’s toughest and most feared teacher, Ron Strickland (Ice Cube), causing Strickland to be fired. To Campbell’s shock—not to mention utter terror—Strickland responds by challenging him to a fist fight after school. News of the fight spreads like wildfire as Campbell takes ever more desperate measures to avoid getting the crap beaten out of him. But if he actually shows up and throws down, it may end up being the very thing this school, and Andy Campbell, needed.

MOVIES: GET RE-AQUAINTED WITH THE BELOVED CHARACTERS OF “BEAUTY AND THE BEAST”


With barely three weeks before Disney's live-action Beauty and the Beast bows on the big screen, the studio has released the official descriptions of the beloved fairy tale's characters.

And when searching for talent to bring the beloved animated characters to life on screen, the filmmakers canvassed the worlds of film, television, music and theatre to find the performers best suited for each role.

BELLE (Emma Watson) is a bright and spirited young woman who dreams of adventure, romance and a world far beyond the confines of her French village. Fiercely independent and keeping to herself for the most part, Belle wants nothing to do with the town’s arrogant and boorish rogue Gaston, who relentlessly pursues her. When her father is imprisoned in the castle of a hideous Beast, Belle trades her own freedom for his and quickly befriends the former staff who have become household objects as result of a curse placed on the castle. The Beast, while surly and ill-mannered, can be generous and chivalrous and knows how to make her laugh, and Belle soon begins to sense the kind heart of the Prince within.



THE BEAST (Dan Stevens). Once a dashing young Prince who had grown to become cruel and self-absorbed before being transformed by an enchantress into a hideous Beast, he is trapped in the castle until he can learn to love another and be worthy of their love in return, thus breaking the curse. When the Beast catches Maurice trespassing and takes him prisoner, his beautiful and headstrong daughter Belle takes his place, and the Beast develops feelings for her, slowly beginning to come back to life.


GASTON (Luke Evans) is the arrogant and shallow villager intent on marrying Belle. A former War hero, he holds court in the village tavern and has every eligible woman in town wrapped around his finger. Smitten with Belle, who is strong-willed and impervious to his charms, Gaston becomes consumed by rejection and jealousy and leads a mob of villagers to the Beast’s castle to rescue Belle and kill the Beast.



LEFOU (Josh Gad), Gaston’s sidekick, is not the brightest bulb in the box. He worships Gaston, who has no regard for him whatsoever and makes him the brunt of his jokes, but soon comes to realize that beneath Gaston’s handsome exterior lays a heart that is much darker.

MAURICE (Kevin Kline), Belle’s father, is a reclusive artist who specializes in beautiful one-of-a-kind music boxes, which to Belle represent the world beyond the confines of Villeneuve but to Maurice are a way to protect his daughter while preserving perfect memories from his past. When Maurice stumbles upon the Beast’s castle and is taken prisoner, Belle comes to plead for his release, eventually trading her freedom for his. Now it is up to him to convince the villagers of Belle’s imprisonment and to find a way to set her free.

Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Movie Review: Arrival



ARRIVAL - is a masterful sci-fi movie which makes a badass out of linguistic expert Louise Banks (Amy Adams) as she tries to communicate with aliens who have landed on Earth-and she must do it before time runs out. The film is an intriguing puzzle, hidden behind layers and layers of little clues, which makes it fun to solve as you go along in the movie. Once you come to the culmination, it is an overwhelming feeling of world politics and personal struggles. Director Denis Villeneuve creates a movie experience you should not miss. Truly deserving of all its accolades. 

-is what I wrote weeks ago as a requested short reaction after the film's press screening (yes, we have those). Unfortunately I haven's been able to follow it up with a full review. Not because I didn't like the movie - on the contrary - I loved it! And I just hate myself for the delay in the review as it does a great disservice to the film. 

You see the baby in my belly has been very demanding on the number of hours of sleep I get (yeah, right blame it on the baby) but seriously, I can no longer do my 5-6 hours of sleep on the weekdays and I literally spend my weekends sleeping (no kidding). 

I've finally worked up the strength to get off my butt and to actually do some writing - so here I am telling you dear reader that Denis Villenueve's "Arrival" is indeed worthy of all the praises and raves it has been receiving. 


Aliens have arrived on Earth in twelve giant spheres scattered across the world, the Army asks the help of Dr. Banks to study the language of the aliens and to translate for them. It may seem an absurd request but Louise is up to the task. They arrive at one of the twelve 'shells' in Montana where Louise works with a team, along with Ian Donnelly (Jeremy Renner) - a scientist.  

Louise and Ian work tirelessly to come to understand the inhabitants of their 'shell' two giant squid-like aliens with seven legs, earning the name "Heptapods", Louise and Ian name their Heptapods 'Abbot' and 'Costello'. While working on understanding aliens is hard enough, there is an incredible pressure in a global political level since other countries are also dealing with their own shells and heptapods and of course as nations are tend to be known - each nation was keeping their own studies and discoveries to themselves. As if a possible alien invasion is not reason enough for human kind to put their differences aside and work together right? 

What I liked best about the "Independence Day" movies is the part where all countries get together to help each other beat the bad aliens and in "Arrival" we don't see that as each country is still looking for their own interests. 



In a race against time and with the fate of the human race on the edge, Louise finds something deep inside of her, a power she does not know she has, to unravel a great mystery. To reveal anything more about the movie would rob the viewer of the pleasure of enjoying the movie. All I have to say is that - it is a film which will have you thinking, the good kind of thinking. 


8.5 out of 10. What makes "Arrival" stand out from other Science Fiction movies is its deep rooted connection to very human themes that you can't help but feel that overwhelming feeling inside you. That despite advances in science and technology, it is human nature which pulls you in to  be lost in the incredible performance of Amy Adams whose strength comes in her perseverance hidden behind her being seemingly-delicate nature. 

Tuesday, February 21, 2017

MOVIES: “KING ARTHUR: LEGEND OF THE SWORD” REVEALS EPIC SCOPE IN NEW TRAILER


The full trailer has now arrived for Guy Ritchie’s adrenalin-fueled epic fantasy take on the Arthurian legends with Warner Bros. Pictures' sweeping fantasy action adventure King Arthur: Legend of the Sword.

Check out the new trailer at https://youtu.be/NjwZtSWmGTA and watch King Arthur: Legend of the Sword in Philippine cinemas starting May 17, 2017.

The film stars Charlie Hunnam, Astrid Bergès-Frisbey, Oscar nominee Djimon Hounsou, Aidan Gillen, Oscar nominee Jude Law, and Eric Bana. Ritchie directs the film from a screenplay by Joby Harold and Guy Ritchie & Lionel Wigram, story by Joby Harold.

The bold new story introduces a streetwise young Arthur who runs the back alleys of Londonium with his gang, unaware of the life he was born for until he grasps hold of the sword Excalibur—and with it, his future. Instantly challenged by the power of Excalibur, Arthur is forced to make some hard choices. Throwing in with the Resistance and a mysterious young woman named Guinevere, he must learn to master the sword, face down his demons and unite the people to defeat the tyrant Vortigern, who stole his crown and murdered his parents, and become King.

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. www.kingarthurmovie.com

MOVIES: DENNIS QUAID SHARES SAME ROLE WITH TWO ACTORS IN “A DOG'S PURPOSE”



For Universal Pictures' new family adventure, A Dog's Purpose, director Lasse Hallström looked to Dennis Quaid who he directed over 20 years ago in Something to Talk About. Known for his portrayals in both comedic and dramatic roles over the years, Quaid was Hallstrom's the ultimate choice for the role of Adult Ethan.

Based on author W. Bruce Cameron’s beloved best-selling novel, A Dog’s Purpose shares the heartwarming and surprising story of one devoted dog who finds the meaning of his own existence through the lives of the humans he teaches to laugh and love.

Over the course of five decades, a single voice—that of an indefatigable dog—takes us along a riveting and uplifting path that speaks to the heart of anyone who has ever loved an animal. Although he is reincarnated in the bodies of multiple canines through the years, it is his unbreakable bond with a kindred spirit named Ethan that carries and inspires one dog throughout his journey to find a true purpose for his boy.

MOVIES: “T2 TRAINSPOTTING”: LOOKING BACK AT THE LANDMARK ORIGINAL FILM


As Columbia Pictures' T2 Trainspotting makes its way exclusively to Ayala Malls Cinemas (Glorietta 4 and Trinoma) starting March 1, 2017, it is important to look back at the original 1996 Trainspotting film and how it defined it a generation.

Original director, Academy Award®-winner Danny Boyle is reunited with the original cast for T2 Trainspotting – Ewan McGregor as Renton, Ewan Bremner as Spud, Jonny Lee Miller as Sick Boy, and Robert Carlyle as Begbie.

Made on a £2M budget, Trainspotting is the sophomore film from the team behind Shallow Grave, and it outgrew its modest indie roots to become a bona fide cultural phenomenon.


MOVIES: MEL GIBSON GUNS FOR OSCAR BEST DIRECTOR PRIZE WITH “HACKSAW RIDGE”


With films that span from the classic, Oscar Best Picture-winning Braveheart to The Patriot, We Were Soldiers, The Passion of the Christ and his most recently directed film, the Mayan civilization epic Apocalypto, Mel Gibson has become known for meshing big themes with atmospheric style that takes audiences into revealing worlds.

Now, Mel Gibson’s re-creates with a mesmerizing realism the epic combat that saw the true-to-life heroism of Desmond Doss in the World War II action-thriller, Hacksaw Ridge.

Nominated for eight Oscar Awards including Best Picture and Best Director, Hacksaw Ridge centers on the story of Desmond T. Doss (Andrew Garfield), a Seventh-day Adventist who became an army medic while adhering to his religious convictions of not carrying a weapon. He saved 75 men during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II.

Monday, February 20, 2017

MOVIES: ICE CUBE, THE TEACHER-FROM-HELL IN “FIST FIGHT”


An award winning actor, director, producer and music icon, Ice Cube has established himself as one of entertainment's most accomplished, bankable, relevant and prolific figures, both on and off the screen.

Now, Ice Cube heads the cast of New Line Cinema's outrageous comedy Fist Fight as one of the two teachers about to come to blows.

Cube relates, "When I first got the script for 'Fist Fight,' I was like, 'Yo, this is what you go to the movies for; it's the kind of film that you can just have fun with.' "It's like one of those movies where you have a ticking time bomb, but the time bomb here is my character, Ron Strickland."

MOVIES: “KONG: SKULL ISLAND” – A THRILLING NEW ADVENTURE ABOUT SCREEN'S GREATEST MONSTER


Larger than life. Last of his kind. King of Skull Island. First unleashed more than eight decades ago, King Kong has thundered off the big screen and into our world with a force that echoes through our collective consciousness still. Now the time has come to restore the crown of the greatest movie monster myth of all, with Warner Bros. Pictures' new action-adventure Kong: Skull Island.

A compelling, original adventure from director Jordan Vogt-Roberts, Kong: Skull Island tells the story of a diverse team of scientists, soldiers and adventurers uniting to explore a mythical, uncharted island in the Pacific, as dangerous as it is beautiful. Cut off from everything they know, the team ventures into the domain of the mighty Kong, igniting the ultimate battle between man and nature. As their mission of discovery becomes one of survival, they must fight to escape a primal Eden in which humanity does not belong.

Kong: Skull Island stars Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, Oscar winner Brie Larson, John Goodman and John C. Reilly. The international ensemble cast also includes Tian Jing, Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell, John Ortiz, Thomas Mann, Shea Whigham, Toby Kebbell and Eugene Cordero.

Sunday, February 19, 2017

MOVIES: ORDINARY TEENS RISE AS SUPERHEROES IN “POWER RANGERS” MOVIE



Meet the latest teen superheroes as they embark in their high-octane journey on screen in the all-new “Power Rangers” movie.

Saban’s “Power Rangers” follows five ordinary teens who must become something extraordinary when they learn that their small town of Angel Grove — and the world — is on the verge of being obliterated by an alien threat. Chosen by destiny, our heroes quickly discover they are the only ones who can save the planet. But to do so, they will have to overcome their real-life issues and before it’s too late, band together as the Power Rangers.

Saban’s Power Rangers, re-envisions the Power Rangers as five ordinary high-school teens who discover they have acquired unique super powers and must join forces to save the world.  To play the iconic Power Ranger roles, the filmmakers assembled a diverse ensemble of emerging young stars who share many characteristics with their characters, and their predecessors in the roles, says director Dean Israelite.

PHOTOGRAPHY: #VantagePoint Antipolo Cathedral



As mentioned in an earlier post, I have been a happy resident of Antipolo City for years now. Everybody who lives in the city knows the Antipolo Cathedral, since this has been a hub or center for public transport vehicles coming from the Metro or else where.

Historically, the said church has been there since 1632, has incurred damages throughoout the years of historical events(revolts/wars) and natural phenomenon(earthquake), but was re-erected time and again.

The church eventually became a cathedral and national shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage. Pilgrims, travelers, and devotees flock to the church from all over the country to pray for safe voyage.



When I went around to practice and shoot, as usual lugging around 2 cameras inside of  a shoulder bag that weighs at least 2 pounds. Typically I bring 2 Canon DSLRS(a crop sensor camera and full frame sensor camera), 2 prime lenses and a telephoto lens that I rarely use. So when I think of all of those, when I can go for a smaller camera that can match what I currently have. I'm quite curious when the Light L16 comes out, Would like to get a feel for the camera, since it is rumored to be very light and compact with a revolutionary folded optics, that allows the design team to put more optics and sensor. Specs say that the camera has 16 individual 13MP sensors.



Until then, I'll keep shooting with my big and heavy DSLRs. No mirror-less camera for me yet, and definitely no smart phones until I find a light and portable camera that I can carry where ever I go and can hold it's own against my camera/s.