Monday, December 31, 2018

Movies: “Instant Family,” “Wonder Park,” “Sonic The Hedgehog” Launch New Posters

Three highly anticipated family films from United International Pictures have just unveiled their new one-sheet artworks, namely the comedy Instant Family, the animated adventure Wonder Park and the combined live-action & animated feature Sonic the Hedgehog.

Check out the posters below!


Instant Family opens in Philippine cinemas January 30, to be followed by Wonder Park in March and Sonic the Hedgehog in November 2019.

Instant Family, Wonder Park and Sonic the Hedgehog are distributed in the Philippines by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.  Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/uipmoviesph/; Twitter at https://twitter.com/uipmoviesph and Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/uipmoviesph/


About Instant Family

When Pete (Mark Wahlberg) and Ellie (Rose Byrne) decide to start a family, they stumble into the world of foster care adoption. They hope to take in one small child but when they meet three siblings, including a rebellious 15 year old girl (Isabela Moner), they find themselves speeding from zero to three kids overnight. Now, Pete and Ellie must hilariously try to learn the ropes of instant parenthood in the hopes of becoming a family. Instant Family is inspired by the real events from the life of writer/director Sean Anders and also stars Octavia Spencer, Tig Notaro and Margo Martindale.



About Wonder Park

Wonder Park tells the story of a magnificent amusement park where the imagination of a wildly creative girl named June comes alive.

From writers Josh Appelbaum and André Nemec (co-creators/writers of CBS’ Zoo), Wonder Park’s voice cast features Jennifer Garner, Matthew Broderick, John Oliver, Mila Kunis, Kenan Thompson, Ken Jeong, Norbert Leo Butz, Brianna Denski and Ken Hudson Campbell.


About Sonic the Hedgehog

Directed by James Fowler, Sonic the Hedgehog stars James Marsden, Ben Schwartz, Natasha Rothwell, Tika Sumpter, Neal McDonough, Adam Pally and Jim Carrey

Movies: “Bumblebee” Acclaimed By U.S. Critics As Best Transformers Movie Ever


Paramount Pictures’ new action-adventure Bumblebee has been hailed by US critics as “best Transformers movie ever,” boasting a certified fresh 93% in Rotten Tomatoes’ scale.  This thanks to director Travis Knight who’s added charm, playfulness and a big heart to a coming-of-age story.

Check out the film’s new Spot below and watch Bumblebee in Philippine cinemas Tuesday, January 8.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/4XsrXyd1cOQ

Movies: “Moana” Songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda Stars In “Mary Poppins Returns”


He earned an Oscar® nomination and a GRAMMY® Award for the composing the original song, “How Far I’ll Go” from Disney’s Moana.  Now, Lin-Manuel Miranda stars opposite Emily Blunt in Disney’s Mary Poppins Returns.

Miranda plays Jack, an old friend of Mary Poppins (Blunt) and is a charming and eternally optimistic lamplighter. Together, they take the Banks’ children on a series of whimsical adventures and introduce them to colorful characters, bringing life, love and laughter back into their home.

Movies: “Happy Death Day” Sequel’s Trailer Promises More Twists, Scares


This Valentine's Day, death makes a killer comeback.  Watch the first official trailer of Universal Pictures’ upcoming suspense thriller Happy Death Day 2U, the sequel to the 2017 acclaimed box-office hit Happy Death Day.  Original director and screenwriter Christopher Landon and star Jessica Rothe are back for more scares.

Check out the teaser poster and trailer below and watch Happy Death Day 2U in Philippine cinemas February 13.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/IeXqWDFJZiw


About Happy Death Day 2U

Jessica Rothe leads the returning cast of Happy Death Day 2U, the follow-up to Blumhouse’s (Split, Get Out, The Purge series) surprise 2017 smash hit of riveting, repeating twists and comic turns.  This time, our hero Tree Gelbman (Rothe) discovers that dying over and over was surprisingly easier than the dangers that lie ahead.

Jason Blum once again produces and Christopher Landon returns to write and direct this next chapter, while Happy Death Day executive producers Angela Mancuso and John Baldecchi are newly joined by EP Samson Mucke (Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse).

Happy Death Day 2U is distributed in the Philippines by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.  Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/uipmoviesph/; Twitter at https://twitter.com/uipmoviesph and Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/uipmoviesph/

Saturday, December 29, 2018

Movies: Official Trailer Reveal “The Kid Who Would Be King”


A retelling of the Arthurian legend for the iPhone generation, “The Kid Who Would Be King” is a thrilling adventure for the young and the young at heart.

The Kid Who Would Be King - Patrick Stewart & Louis Serkis 
“The Kid Who Would Be King” follows the adventures of an average school kid Alex (Louis Ashbourne Serkis) draw Excalibur, the magical sword of King Arthur, from a building site and go on a magical quest — with pals old and new — to save Britain from the forces of darkness. Standing in the gang’s way is malevolent enchantress Morgana (Rebecca Ferguson), King Arthur’s half-sister, whose belief that the sword is rightfully hers has twisted her to evil. Buried in a tree in the bowels of the Earth by Arthur and his magician Merlin (Sir Patrick Stewart/Angus Imrie), Morgana looks to take back the sword using an army of undead knights and her terrifying ability to shapeshift, buoyed by a deep conviction that she is the true heir to the throne.

Angus Imrie, Louis Serkis, Tom Taylor, Rhianna Doris, Dean Chaumoo THE KID WHO WOULD BE KING
Opening very soon from 20th Century Fox this January 23, check out the film's latest trailer THE KID WHO WOULD BE KING - official trailer

Thursday, December 27, 2018

Movies: Global Pop Singing Sensation And 2019 Double Grammy Nominee Dua Lipa To Co-Write And Perform “Swan Song” Single For The Movie “Alita: Battle Angel”


Global pop singing sensation and 2019 double Grammy nominee Dua Lipa, will co-write and perform a new single, “Swan Song,” for Twentieth Century Fox’s Alita: Battle Angel, the epic action-adventure from producers James Cameron and Jon Landau (Avatar) and director Robert Rodriguez (Sin City). The film will be released in Philippine cinemas on February 6.

“From the moment we saw her video for ‘New Rules,’ we knew that Dua Lipa would be the perfect artist to do a song for Alita: Battle Angel,” commented Producer Jon Landau.  “She has the kick-ass strength, power and attitude in her performances that Alita embodies in the movie.  Jim, Robert and I are thrilled to have her onboard and are confident she will make 'Swan Song' the perfect inspiring and empowering anthem for our film.”

Movies: Greatest Bedtime Story Ever Told Starts January 16 - “Once Upon A Deadpool”

A scene fromn Once Upon A Deadpool
From the studio that brought you “A Miracle on 34th Street” and “Home Alone,” everyone’s favorite disreputable superhero returns to the big screen with a fairytale twist on Deadpool 2 that the whole family can enjoy. With over 20 minutes of never-before-seen footage, “Once Upon A Deadpool” is jam-packed with festive surprises that will open on January 16 in select cinemas nationwide.

“Once Upon A Deadpool” is the kid-friendly version of Deadpool 2 movie, now rated PG (Parental Guidance) by the MTRCB.  With the lower rating, the movie can now be seen on the big screen by younger children (below 13 years old). 

Fred Savage & Ryan Reynolds Once Upon A Deadpool
Catch “Once Upon A Deadpool” in PH cinemas starting January 16.   Trailer link here   https://youtu.be/ojKQLG0KQ6E

Movies: Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Aquaman” Hits A High Watermark Of Half A Billion Dollars At The Global Box Office


At Number 1 in the world, James Wan’s spectacular underwater adventure has captivated
moviegoers from sea to shining sea and beyond

Burbank, CA – December 27, 2018 – Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Aquaman” is a worldwide box office hero that has took in more than $500 million, and still counting.  The announcement was made December 24 by Ron Sanders, President of Worldwide Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures Group and Warner Bros. Home Entertainment.

Movies: Meet The Cast & Characters Of “Mary Poppins Returns”

Bringing Disney’s Mary Poppins Returns, an original film musical, to the big screen was a massive undertaking. From developing a new story about the next generation of the Banks family to creating new music that feels fresh but with nostalgic elements, director Rob Marshall and his team faced numerous challenges.

But without the right actors to bring that magic to life, the work would be in vain.  An impressive array of acclaimed actors, led by Emily Blunt, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Colin Firth and Meryl Streep, helped Marshall accomplish his mission.


Blunt plays the title role of MARY POPPINS, the practically-perfect nanny whose unique magical skills can turn any ordinary task into a fantastic adventure. Returning once again to the home of the Banks family having not aged a single day, the enigmatic governess helps the next generation of the Banks family find the joy and wonder missing in their lives following a personal loss.

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Movies: Suspense Thriller “Us” Terrifies With First Trailer


Watch the first trailer for Universal Pictures’ new suspense thriller Us, a new nightmare from the mind of Academy Award Winner Jordan Peele, writer/director of Get Out.

Check out the trailer below and watch Us in Philippine cinemas March 13, 2019.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/hNCmb-4oXJA

Us is distributed in the Philippines by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/uipmoviesph/

Friday, December 21, 2018

Movies: Emmet Takes Off On A Space Adventure In “The LEGO Movie 2” Trailer


Everything is more awesome in space.  Emmet takes off on another adventure in the new trailer for the big-screen animated comedy “The LEGO® Movie 2” from Warner Bros. Pictures.

Check out the trailer below, as well as the film’s character posters, and watch “The LEGO® Movie 2” in Philippine cinemas February 13.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/137782652917951/posts/2391129997583194/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/-IiS2HZgPrA

The LEGO Movie 2” is distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a WarnerMedia Company.


Movies: “Men In Black International” Drops First Official Trailer


Next year, the universe is expanding.  Watch the full trailer now of Columbia Pictures’ new action adventure Men in Black International from the director The Fast and the Furious 8 and starring Chris Hemsworth, Tessa Thompson and Liam Neeson.

The Men in Black have always protected the Earth from the scum of the universe.  In this new adventure, they tackle their biggest, most global threat to date: a mole in the Men in Black organization.

Check out the trailer below and watch Men in Black International in Philippine cinemas June 12, 2019.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/Y7Kj9v1gl0M

Directed by F. Gary Gray, Men in Black International is written by Art Marcum & Matt Holloway, based on the Malibu Comic by Lowell Cunningham. Produced by Walter F. Parkes and Laurie MacDonald.  The executive producers are Steven Spielberg, E. Bennett Walsh and Barry Sonnenfeld.

The film stars Chris Hemsworth, Tessa Thompson, Rebecca Ferguson, Kumail Nanjiani, Rafe Spall, Laurent Bourgeois, Larry Bourgeois, with Emma Thompson and Liam Neeson.

Men in Black International is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Movies: Rob Marshall Creates An Original Musical For The Big-Screen With “Mary Poppins Returns”


It has always been a dream of Rob Marshall’s to conceive an original musical specifically for film. The Oscar®-nominated (Chicago), Emmy® and DGA Award-winning director, who began his career on the Broadway stage as a choreographer and director, is responsible for the successful screen adaptations of Chicago, Nine, and Into the Woods, and understands the world of film and the world of Broadway musicals in a unique and personal way. Mary Poppins Returns, the sequel to the 1964 classic Mary Poppins starring Julie Andrews as the beloved nanny, was a chance for Marshall to create an homage to the classic movie musicals of his youth.

Wednesday, December 19, 2018

Movies: New “Glass” Character Posters Shatter The Super Heroes


David Dunn (Bruce Willis), Eijah Price (Samuel L. Jackson) and Kevin Wendell Crumb (James McAvoy) get their character posters for M. Night Shyamalan’s eagerly anticipated new suspense thriller Glass.

Check out the character one-sheets below and watch Glass in Philippine cinemas January 16, 2019.

Tuesday, December 18, 2018

DEEP DIVE Into Aquaman in Manila

Jason Momoa, Amber Heard and Director James Wan during the Aquaman Fan Event last December 11, 2019 at the SM Mall Of Asia, Music Hall. 


So it's four in the morning after what I am now dubbing as "Aquaman Day" and despite the long day most of which were spent waiting and or standing for an event to start, sleep has eluded me once again. I guess that's okay so that when I go back to work come tomorrow, it's an easier adjustment. In case you don't know, I'm an analyst for a BPO company and Paul and I work the night shift. 

I'm already done with my "Aquaman" movie review, it's already posted by the way, since the embargo has now been lifted. So while I'm waiting for sleep to engulf me I decided to start on my post Aquaman Day write up. 

Some people like climbing up mountains, riding bikes, baking cookies, but for Paul and me, it's covering events like these. He gets to take photos, I get to write, all the while being in the same room as Hollywood A-Listers, as well as being with local and international press. It's a bonus if I get to ask a question during a press junket or get a selfie. 

I guess we're just weird that way. Funny also because December 10 is actually our wedding anniversary and this year, we are celebrating our seventh year as husband and wife and we seem to always find ourself "working" on our wedding anniversaries. Case in point, one time Paul actually covered a wedding. So now, we share the same wedding anniversary with this amazing couple. Another time, we covered the Barbie (Almalbis), Kitchie (Nadal) and Aia (De Leon) "Secrets" concert. And now "Aquaman Day". 

So even if the Aquaman Presscon and Fan Event were on the 11th, the required press screening (to be able to attend the Press Con) was on the 10th. It's a good thing that Paul and I were allowed to go on leave from work on both days. 

I loved the movie and really enjoyed it. You can read my full review here


Local and Foreign Press during the "Aquaman Press Conference" held at the Grand Hyatt. 
We were seated in the fourth row. 


We woke up early on D-Day -errr I mean Aquaman Day, Tuesday, December 11, 2018 so we can pack our stuff. Since we were coding, we decided to book an Airbnb stay, a condo near Mall of Asia, where the Fan Event was taking place. If you've been following us, you would know that booking a hotel stay (and probably now, Airbnb units) is a thing, whenever we cover events that are too far from home.  

With only packing the essentials, we set off a little before lunch time to the Grand Hyatt hotel in BGC where the Asian Press Conference would be held. This was by far the biggest Press Conference we would be covering and I was just in awe and flabbergasted the entire time. 

We are a small group of pop culture/geek bloggers, content creators and we basically know each other from events and its nice to get to share something as big as these events with each other. (Hi Jerald, Prince, Awie and Naz! It was nice meting you Chris.) We were like giddy school children, of course as media / press we had to behave ourselves, most especially during the press conference. 
This was especially true since there were also foreign press present. Of course, it was everybody's game during the fan event. The louder screaming, the better, but we'll get to that later. 




During the Press Conference, Jason Momoa, Amber Heard and Director James Wan talked about the movie, from the tight fitting (but you'll still be able to go to the bathroom) costumes, to the different messages the movie brings. From representation, for Amber Heard, who feels like her character Mera - "is no damsel in distress. We need more characters like her" she says.

Coming from different cultures themselves Director James Wan (who was born in Malaysia and is of Chinese descent but grew up in Australia) and Jason Momoa (whose Mother is of German-Irish and Native American ancestry, his father is of native Hawaiian descent) talk about what it means growing up and coming from different worlds like Arthur Curry (Aquaman) and coming to terms with this.  


The beautiful stage during the Aquaman Fan Event at the Music Hall at SM Mall of Asia. 
After the Press Conference, we all rushed to get our Grab Cars (since we were coding) and headed to Mall of Asia. Since Paul and I had booked an Airbnb, we checked in first, throwing the things we won't be needing on the bed (so we'd have lighter bags), refreshing up a bit and rushing to the Music Hall for the fan event. We had to register first and secure our spot for good photos. 

I wasn't even planning on going to the fan event, because of my heart condition I was having second thoughts, I can't stand for a long time, nor could I be in a crowded space for long. Good thing, the press area still had room for us to walk around in. I just made sure to drink my medication, that I was well hydrated and I actually got to sit down and rest while waiting for the fan event to start. 

There were a couple of times when I felt overwhelmed with everything that was happening and one of them was while waiting for the event to start, standing there in the middle of the Music Hall, when you look up, you can see that no expense was spared, there were huge banners and posters of the characters from "Aquaman" from ceiling to floor. I mean look at that stage! Because the venue was circular in structure, all you had to do was look up and do a turn and you would know that this is it. This is what big fan events are made of. Then you look in front of you and behind you to the many, many fans who have been in there as early as possible, for the chance to see Jason Momoa, Amber Heard and James Wan, bringing with them art work, comic books, toys and posters to sign. Some even coming in costume and you just get goosebumps, at seeing how much love passion and effort it must have taken these people just to be here today.  





Then, they arrive and I have to say that the anticipation and excitement is just palpable in the air and it is just utter controlled chaos, if there is such a word. Controlled because security did their jobs well, everything went smoothly, there were no wild attempts or grabbing at the stars, the fans called to the gracious guests who took time to sign the different tokens that they brought and to take selfies with them. 

Okay, I was lucky enough to get a selfie with Jason Momoa and Amber Heard. :) 

So yeah. Definitely worth it. 

As the event came to a close, there was a shower of blue and white confetti that rained from above and I was looking up completely enthralled by it, that overwhelming feeling came flooding back to me. 

What excites me the most (yes, even more than those epics selfies, are the possibilities that this successful press tour will bring. It was definitely a good precedent and what could follow is more than exciting but mind blowing, actually. 

Studios will be more confident in the Philippines, that we can host something as big as this. Can you just imagine all the upcoming Hollywood movies and the big studios setting their eyes on Manila? 

It seems that all that had work paid off - the local box office numbers of Aquaman broke records! Read more here

The success of the event would not be possible without the hard work of so many people, from the folks at Warner Bros. and their teams who have spent months working on this event, (scouring the Metro for a hotel that has a big enough bed for the 6'4 tall Jason Momoa, I watched a video that says his chest is about 50 inches wide, looking for vans so that he and is entourage would be comfortable. If you think Jason was big, you should see this one guy in his crew)  to the fans, cosplayers, media, bloggers, content creators, to the many, many unsung heroes, I'm sure I'm forgetting people but all of the hard work culminated to a successful and unforgettable Aquaman Day! This is definitely one for the books and my experience is just one in the million of the many memorable stories that happened on that day. 

What's your #AquamanPH story? 

Click here for more photos. 

Tech: Three ways to power up your holiday parties with the Sony V Series



(Manila, Philippines, 4th December 2018) – Sony’s V series is the party essential you need this holiday season. With festivities and gatherings happening nonstop, Sony promises to power up your parties to a whole new level with its line-up of powerful one-box speakers. The Sony V series, “Party in a box”, has got you covered with its new compact design and high-powered audio system. Having the Sony V series is like hiring a DJ and a band at the same time with its cool features -- DJ gesture control, mic and guitar inputs, and its latest TAIKO mode that adds drumming into the mix. Bringing you a perfect combination of 360˚ LIVE SOUND and 360˚ party lights for that perfect club atmosphere at the comforts of your own space.


DJ, just play that song


Take charge of the party. Queue in your favorite tracks and put your own spin to the music with the DJ gesture control. This interactive and fun feature allows you play with DJ sound effects, samplers, and karaoke features. You can also easily skip tracks by just flicking your hand left or right, and up or down to manage the volume. Be your own DJ and set the perfect mood for your party.


Rock the night away

Who doesn’t love a good karaoke jamming? Keep your guests entertained and belt out lyrics from your guilty pleasure playlist; even better, take advantage of the two-mic inputs, hand the other microphone to your best friend and sing your favorite songs from high school. Connect a guitar to one of the inputs and you’ve got a guitar amplifier – that should make you feel like a rockstar. Enjoy three modes: Clean for a clear sound, Overdrive for a distorted guitar sound, and Bass for your bass guitar.


Beat the drum! 

The new TAIKO mode4, as the name suggests in Japanese, allows you to use your High-Power Audio one-box system like a drum. Play your favorite songs and tap to the rhythm or add a twist by tapping the touch panel and enjoying the sounds of a variety of drum samplers. You can play along on samplers including bongo, djembe, surdo, and the Japanese Taiko drum just by tapping the top panel in time to the beat. You can also put your rhythm to test when you play against friends in Game mode.

Bring something new to the table and make every festivity a memorable one. It’s the season to be jolly so let the Sony V series be the life of your party!.

For more information, visit www.sony.com.ph, like facebook.com/SonyPhilippines, or follow twitter.com/SonyPHinc and Instagram.com/sonyPHInc.



About Sony Corporation

Sony Corporation is a leading manufacturer of audio, video, imaging, game, communications, key device and information technology products for the consumer and professional markets. With its music, pictures, computer entertainment and online businesses, Sony is uniquely positioned to be the leading electronics and entertainment company in the world. Sony recorded consolidated annual sales of approximately $76 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2017. Sony Global Web Site: http://www.sony.net/

Tech: Ready, Set, Bass: Gabbi Garcia shares her EXTRA playlist for every mood


(Manila, Philippines, 14th December 2018) – Sony’s new EXTRA BASS “It Girl” Gabbi Garcia runs us through her current playlist; sharing her top favorite jams for every mood. A typical day for this rising star requires wearing different hats - an artist, a music student, and a global brand endorser. How does Gabbi cope with the demands of her job and the stress that comes with it? Well, she gets by with a little help from her favorite songs.

People know I live with deep passion for music, and this is actually one of my priorities alongside acting. So here’s how my current playlist looks like with every mood I’m in.”


Feeling Ecstatic! 

“When I feel very light and optimistic, and I’m claiming that it will be my best day ever, I got Ben&Ben’s Sunrise as my default go-to song. And for days that are EXTRA, like when I feel super excited and I need that EXTRA push before I go on-stage, I jam to Pateros by Apartel.”


The Sony EXTRA BASS It girl is a huge fan of OPM music. Just this year, she also release her own single, All I Need. Gabbi also shares that she tags along her very own Sony SRS-XB31 portable speakers especially when she needs a boost of positive energy.


Taking it Slow


“​Every now and then, just like everyone else, I also have those slow downtime moments when I’m feeling a little bit sad, a little bit sentimental. During these days, my wireless Sony headphones (MDR-XB650BT) are my best company. My current playlist for this mood would be Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby by Cigarettes After Sex - I zone out with this in the background. And I also chill to Jess Connelly’s Turn Me Down during days when I’m booked with shoots and tapings.” 


Despite that Gabbi is basically living life on the fast lane, she shares that getting some alone time to free her mind and meditate is her trick to take it slow from time to time.


Pump it Up!

Gabbi ensures to keep herself fit and healthy by doing her regular trips to the gym, and according to this busy It girl, what better way to keep the sweat going than by listening to New Rules by Dua Lipa


“I just love listening to Dua Lipa while working out. It keeps my energy high and good vibes are just overflowing. As soon as I hit the gym, I’m game on so I use my wireless in-ear Sony earphones (WF-SP700N) it’s bluetooth activated so I can move freely and just focus on my fitness program.” 

Another Dua Lipa fave is One Kiss, which goes on repeat when she’s with friends and family; blasting it on full volume using her GTK-XB60 speakers. 

As a self-professed music lover, Gabbi doesn’t go a day without listening to her favorite songs. The Sony EXTRA BASS series - from wireless headphones, to in-ear earphones, to speakers – lets her enjoy music as she segues from one schedule to another. Now, she’s listening to her current favorites with EXTRA passion and with EXTRA BASS. 



About Sony Corporation

Sony Corporation is a leading manufacturer of audio, video, game, communications, key device and information technology products for the consumer and professional markets.  With its music, pictures, computer entertainment and online businesses, Sony is uniquely positioned to be the leading electronics and entertainment company in the world.  Sony recorded consolidated annual sales of approximately $77 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2018.   Sony Global Web Site: http://www.sony.net/

Movies: Aquaman Is King Of The International Box Office

Warner Bros. Pictures’ Epic Super Hero Adventure is #1 in the Philippines, Breaks Record for Biggest December Opening Weekend Ever for a Foreign Title


MANILA, December 17, 2018 — Warner Bros. Pictures’ first-ever Aquaman standalone feature is making huge waves at the box office, coming in at #1 internationally for the second week in a row, and taking in an impressive Php 230.4-million in its opening weekend in the Philippines.

The epic action adventure, directed by James Wan and starring Jason Momoa in the title role, opened on approximately 643 screens on December 12, with sold-out shows and fans lining up to be among the first to see the film.  The opening weekend marked the All-Time Biggest December Opening Weekend for a Foreign Title, surpassing 2015’s Star Wars: The Force Awakens with Php 188-million.

Movies: “Mary Queen Of Scots” Asserts Claim To The Throne In New Trailer


In a history ruled by kings, there was a moment when two queens wrote the future.  Watch the brand new trailer of Focus Features’ dramatic thriller Mary, Queen of Scots starring Saoirse Ronan and Margot Robbie.

Check out the trailer below and watch Mary, Queen of Scots in Philippine cinemas March 2019.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/B1ecncvVJ20

Movies: Discover The Origins Of “Bumblebee” On Earth In New Adventure Film


In the more than 12 years since the first Transformers film commenced shooting in White Sands, New Mexico, the straightforward idea of turning a popular toy into a movie has surprised even its creators by growing into a worldwide phenomenon with box office receipts totaling $4.3 billion. With Paramount Pictures’ new action-adventure Bumblebee, the saga enters new territory with a story as emotionally resonant as it is action-packed.

Check out a new Spot below and watch Bumblebee in Philippine cinemas Tuesday, January 8.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/wfPqGaHp_fw

Movies: “Mary Poppins Returns” Vies For Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild Awards


Walt Disney Pictures’ heartwarming musical Mary Poppins Returns has solidified its status as a strong awards contender as the Rob Marshall film has collected major nominations at the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards.

At the Globes, Mary Poppins Returns is nominated for Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy, Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy (Emily Blunt), Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy (Lin-Manuel Miranda) and Best Original Score - Motion Picture (Marc Shaiman).

Movies: “A Dog’s Way Home” New Trailer Further Reveals Heartwarming Tale


“The greatest adventure is the one that guides you home.” Watch the brand new trailer of A Dog’s Way Home now which has just been launched by Columbia Pictures.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/0RKu-vHj9w8

A Dog’s Way Home chronicles the heartwarming adventure of Bella, a dog who embarks on an epic 400-mile journey home after she is separated from her beloved human.

Directed by Charles Martin Smith, the screenplay is by W. Bruce Cameron & Cathryn Michon, based on the book by W. Bruce Cameron.

The film stars Bryce Dallas Howard, Ashley Judd, Jonah Hauer-King, Alexandra Shipp, with Wes Studi and Edward James Olmos.

Use the hashtag #ADogsWayHome

In Philippine cinemas 2019, A Dog’s Way Home is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. 

Movies: “Wonder Park” Of Your Imagination Comes To Life In New Trailer


What if the park you  always imagined came to life? Experience the wonder of Paramount Pictures’ animated adventure Wonder Park, in Philippine cinemas March 2019. Watch the brand new trailer now!

YouTube: https://youtu.be/_7D2E5ERt44


About Wonder Park

WONDER PARK tells the story of a magnificent amusement park where the imagination of a wildly creative girl named June comes alive.

From writers Josh Appelbaum and André Nemec (co-creators/writers of CBS’ Zoo), Wonder Park’s voice cast features Jennifer Garner, Matthew Broderick, John Oliver, Mila Kunis, Kenan Thompson, Ken Jeong, Norbert Leo Butz, Brianna Denski and Ken Hudson Campbell.

Wonder Park is distributed in the Philippines by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.  Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/uipmoviesph/

Saturday, December 15, 2018

Movies: Superhumans Fight For The Broken In New “Glass” Trailer


Buena Vista International has released a brand new trailer for M. Night Shyamalan’s Glass,   which brings together the narratives of two of his standout originals—2000’s Unbreakable, from Touchstone, and 2016’s Split, from Universal—in one explosive, all-new comic-book thriller. 

Check out the film’s new trailer below and watch Glass in Philippine cinemas January 16, 2019.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/YLr5q2Zku94

From Unbreakable, Bruce Willis returns as David Dunn as does Samuel L. Jackson as Elijah Price, known also by his pseudonym Mr. Glass.  Joining from Split are James McAvoy, reprising his role as Kevin Wendell Crumb and the multiple identities who reside within, and Anya Taylor-Joy as Casey Cooke, the only captive to survive an encounter with The Beast. 

Following the conclusion of Split, Glass finds Dunn pursuing Crumb’s superhuman figure of The Beast in a series of escalating encounters, while the shadowy presence of Price emerges as an orchestrator who holds secrets critical to both men.

Joining the all-star cast are Unbreakable’s Spencer Treat Clark and Charlayne Woodard, who reprise their roles as Dunn’s son and Price’s mother, as well as Golden Globe Award winner Sarah Paulson (American Horror Story series).

This riveting culmination of his worldwide blockbusters is produced by Shyamalan and Blumhouse Production’s Jason Blum.  They produce again with Ashwin Rajan and Marc Bienstock, and Steven Schneider and Kevin Frakes, who executive produce.  Gary Barber and Roger Birnbaum also serve as executive producers.


A Blinding Edge Pictures and Blumhouse production, Glass will be released by in the Philippines by Buena Vista International.

Movies: Brie Larson Represents Marvel Studios' 'Captain Marvel' at Brazil Comicon

Over the weekend, Brie Larson, who stars as Carol Danvers/Captain Marvel in the upcoming Marvel Studios’ "Captain Marvel," participated in a panel at Brazil’s Comic Con Experience (CCXP), which was held in São Paulo.

Fans in attendance received the following exclusive poster:



Friday, December 14, 2018

Movies: Titans Clash In New Trailer Of “Godzilla: King Of The Monsters”


Which of these Titans are here to protect us, and which of these Titans are here to threaten us? See the brand new trailer for Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures’ “Godzilla: King of the Monsters.” 

Check it out below and watch the film in Philippine cinemas May 30, 2019.

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Movies: Nicolas Cage Is Spider-Man Noir In Acclaimed “Spider-Verse” Film

Nicolas Cage - Spider-Man Noir
The character of Spider-Man Noir is finally in a Spider-Man film.

In the new animated film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Oscar®-winning actor Nicolas Cage (Moonstruck, Leaving Las Vegas, Adaptation) voices the role of Spider-Man Noir. “He is from a dimension that is literally black and white,” explains Cage. “Spider-Man Noir is hard boiled, he’s probably the edgiest of the Spider-Men — think Raymond Chandler, Paul Cain, those great old detective novels. He’s a 1933-era private eye and he’s fighting Nazis, so he’s a real hero.”

The actor says he enjoyed voicing Spider-Man Noir because the directors allowed him to have fun with the role and to pay homage to some of his favorite classic actors, such as Humphrey Bogart and James Cagney. He explains, “I felt like we were doing something new and something original with the character. In addition, the movie is really about positive qualities like being heroes and doing the right thing for the community. It’s also great for families, because everyone is represented. I can also tell you it has a terrific sense of humor.”

Southeast Asia’s First IMAX With Laser Now At Vista Cinemas’ Evia Lifetsyle Center, Vista City Mall In Alabang

IMAX with LASER at Vista Cinemas' EVIA Mall
Outdating existing cinema experience currently available in the country, Vista Cinemas introduces an incredibly groundbreaking movie technology as it houses Southeast Asia’s first IMAX with Laser theatre in Evia Lifestyle Center Mall in Alabang.           

Launched last November 20, 2018, Vista Cinemas’ IMAX with Laser cinema now brings the audience a notch higher with its next-generation technology that delivers stunning images and heart-pounding audio for an unparalleled immersive cinematic experience.  Capturing true reality projected on  one of the world’s largest screens, the experience is set apart by its next-generation 4K laser projection system which features a new optical engine and a suite of propriety IMAX technologies that deliver increased resolution, sharper and brighter images, deeper contrast as well as the most distinct, exotic colors ever available on-screen.

Thursday, December 13, 2018

Movies: Jake Johnson: A Seasoned, Relatable Peter Parker In “Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse”


Meet a new Peter Parker.

Actor Jake Johnson (New Girl, BoJack Horseman) lends his vocal talents to the role of Peter Parker in Columbia Pictures’ Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. But though this version may look like Peter, he is older and the years of superhero life have taken a toll on his body. His experiences have left him world-weary and cynical. Peter never wanted to be a mentor, but training Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) to be Spider-Man helps him to regain his original enthusiasm for that identity and reclaim the spirit of selflessness for which Spider-Man stands.

Movies: The Decepticon Triple Changers In New “Bumblebee” Featurette


Dropkick and shatter! Take a closer look at the Decepticon Triple Changers in a newly-released featurette for Paramount Pictures’ Bumblebee from director Travis Knight (Kubo and the Two Strings) and starring Hailee Steinfeld and John Cena.

The Decepticon Triple Changers add something fresh and new to the live action Transformers Universe that’s guaranteed to ignite the core and younger fans.

Check out the featurette below and watch Bumblebee in Philippine cinemas Tuesday, January 8.

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Bumblebee is distributed in the Philippines by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/uipmoviesph/


About Bumblebee

On the run in the year 1987, Bumblebee finds refuge in a junkyard in a small Californian beach town. Charlie (Hailee Steinfeld), on the cusp of turning 18 and trying to find her place in the world, discovers Bumblebee, battle-scarred and broken. When Charlie revives him, she quickly learns this is no ordinary, yellow VW bug.

Bumblebee is produced by Transformers franchise veterans Lorenzo di Bonaventura and Michael Bay, along with executive producers Steven Spielberg, Brian Goldner and Mark Vahradian. Chris Brigham (Argo, Inception) will also executive produce. The screenplay is written by Christina Hodson.

Directed by Travis Knight (Kubo and the Two Strings, Coraline), the film stars Hailee Steinfeld (Edge of Seventeen, Pitch Perfect 2), Pamela Adlon (Better Things), John Cena (Blockers, Daddy's Home 2), Stephen Schneider (Comedy Central’s Broad City) and Jorge Lendeborg Jr. (Spider-Man: Homecoming).

Tuesday, December 11, 2018

Movie Review: Aquaman


Throughout the years, we have come to see some version of the legendary city of Atlantis, but nothing comes close to what director James Wan has created in "Aquaman", the perfect union of technology and myth, this version of Atlantis is like a dream. 

It's not just colorful, the lights create a visual feast which will leave your mouth wide open for a long duration of the movie, there are so many scenes and shots that either looks like a painting, so beautiful it can just be framed and put up or would go nicely as a wallpaper on your cellphone. You can tell that each scene, each shot was really well thought of, the palette of colors that were used are truly the work of an  artist. 

But "Aquaman" is more than just a "pretty movie" it also has a solid story that actually reads like a story book, not a bedtime story for you to fall asleep but an exciting one, filled with epic battles, exhilarating roof top chases and a journey across the seven seas. 

One year after the events of "Justice League" - trouble is brewing under the sea as King Orm (Patrick Wilson) is preparing an attack on the surface world. (You know, to teach us humans a lesson, for polluting and destroying the seas) and the only way to stop him is to challenge his claim to the throne, which is why Mera (Amber Heard) searches for Arthur Curry (Jason Momoa) AKA 'Aquaman' - who is Orm's half brother. 


Never fully accepting his Atlantean heritage. Arthur is reluctant to challenge his younger brother and take his rightful place as King, yet circumstances leave him no choice as the eminent attack from Orm will undoubtedly destroy the surface world. 

Accompanied by Mera, Arthur goes on a quest to find the trident of Atlan (the first ruler of Atlantis) which in his possession will give him power over the seven seas and will allow him to defeat Orm but he must first prove himself worthy of becoming King. 

Now this is the stuff of legends, this is a genuine super hero movie with a complete and concise narrative, an exciting adventure you would want to be a part of. That Italian roof top chase scene is pure genius. Yet more than just the exhilarating action is a story about family and forgiveness about coming to terms with one's identity, no matter how different or far apart your roots may come. The film carries an important message of diversity and representation, which in today's times is very important.


As Director James Wan said during the recent Aquaman Asian Press Conference, you cannot have a movie about "Aquaman" without touching on issues about the environment and the film does just that. Speaking of director James Wan, he also bring his horror roots to the film, that "Trench" scene will make you jump from your seat and working yourself to it's edge with suspence and anticipation, all the while bringing something eerily beautiful on the screen. 

Shout out to Amber Heard's Mera, I love how she was not just a sidekick to Aquaman, that she's her own Hero, a diplomat and a warrior. We want more Mera!

I appreciate that we see a growth in Arthur, while he may have been brash and cocky before, he learns an important lesson which makes him a deserving King and an even better Hero. 

10/10 don't miss this movie, which deserves multiple screenings on the biggest screens. 

Aquaman is now showing. 

Monday, December 10, 2018

Movie Review: Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse


You know the story, teenager gets bitten by a radioactive spider, gets powers, swings through buildings, defeats the bad guy usually a scientist with some tech and powers of an animal (a goblin, an octopus, a lizard, an eel or a vulture) and rescues the girl. We've all seen it, there's been six Spider-Man movies, so you might wonder why a seventh one that's animated? 

Well, its because Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse isn't just another Spider-Man movie. This one, has the guts to go into exploring a multi verse, bringing not only one iteration of Spider-Man into the screen but six of them! 

Is it confusing?

Not at all. From the second the movie starts, the concept of a multi verse is explained from the Columbia Pictures logo, Lady Columbia is seen in different versions, what would she look like in different universes and from there its one crazy adventure. A familiar story, told through a kaleidoscope of colors and styles. The out of this world animation alone makes it worth seeing on the big screen. 



We all know Peter Parker, but this is not his story. This is the story of Miles Morales, is an Afro-Latino teenager (said to have taken inspiration from Former US President Barack Obama and rapper, actor Donald Glover) who is struggling to fit in his new school and expressing his true identity and passion to his parents, you know, your typical teenager. 

That soon changes when he is bit by a radioactive spider and starts discovering that he has powers- yes, you might think you know where this is going but this is where things get weird fast. You see, other Spider-Men from other universes start showing up. 

This is after a super collider attracts these other Spider-Men from other universes to Miles' own universe. Now, they have to team up, get back to their own homes and destroy the collider before it causes unspeakable damage to possibly more than one universe. 


The first time I got really excited about "Into the Spider-Verse" was when I saw the trailer on the big screen, like "Woah!" it was incredible! 

The colors, the details, each Spider-Man was rendered in a different style to indicate that they were from another universe. The unique use of comic book style sound effects which were incorporated into the animation was a great nod to the origins of these films. 

I got even more excited to see the movie when the raves and positive reviews started coming in. It has a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes (the most of any Spider-Man movie, ever) and it even already bagged its first award- Best Animated Feature for the New York Critics Circe and the film was also recently nominated for Best Animated Feature in the Golden Globes. 



When I finally saw the film in a press screening I was not disappointed. I was completely drawn in! The all too familiar story but told in such a daring and refreshing way it was all brand new!

I for one, loved how real Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) was, he was such a realistic teenager, even he is a super hero and in a sense Spider-Man, I love how we see that he is still vulnerable enough to want to stay with his parents when he is afraid. That fact that he gave his father a hug, because he is still a teenager after all. 

That dramatic behind the door scene that father and son shared had me crying buckets. 

Also shout out to the team for giving Miles such a cool personality. From his secret hobby to his "choice" of not wanting to tie his shoe lace XD 

Without giving anything away one of the main crush my heart moments was Jake Johnson's Peter B. Parker / Spider-Man, who is an older, not so ideal version of the character. He stands in as a reluctant teacher to Miles and despite his sarcastic humor, there is a lot that is going on behind his unshaven look and Dad-bod. 

Loved, loved, loved ever time Nicholas Cage's (yup, you read that right) Spider-Man Noir was on screen and that's all I'm saying. 


In this day and age, where pop culture has made 'hero' such a common place word, "Into the Spider-Verse" takes the hero concept and re-introduces it in such a way that says that "anybody can wear the mask and that we are all Spider-Man" 

and even if most super heroes live a lonely life, the film says that we are never truly alone because in some alternate universe is some version of ourselves (could be a boy, a girl, a pig, any other animal, of different age, race, shape and size) and that thought, no matter how inconceivable, can make the world a less lonely place to live in. 

9.5/10 - do not miss this in cinemas next week! 

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is in cinemas December 12.