tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19885025349196760642024-03-17T02:51:24.347+08:00Jerald's Secret HQcommand center for all things pop cultureJerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.comBlogger1462125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-90792200703894302962023-10-28T10:19:00.001+08:002023-11-03T10:32:30.680+08:005 iconic horror scenes to scare you sleepless this Halloween<p><span style="font-family: Lato;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214967&authkey=%21APdo6m0-_QcTmOM&width=915&height=533" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="800" height="373" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214967&authkey=%21APdo6m0-_QcTmOM&width=915&height=533" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><i><span style="font-family: Lato;">This long weekend, experience edge-of-your-seat entertainment with these nail-biting moments on screen best streamed with PLDT Home</span></i><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>H</i>orror stories certainly have a way of impacting people — especially when they’re in a medium as visual as film or television.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">As kids, we avoided them as much as possible. After taking in a horrifying scene or two on screen, no one really wanted to see a ghost or a murderous doll in the dark. The experience may be different for us as adults, who can watch these films for entertainment. But there will always be those traumatizing scenes that we won’t forget that easily.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">After all, it isn’t a good horror movie if there’s no scary scene that lingers with us beyond childhood. Who could forget a classic like the shower murder with the violins screeching in Psycho, or Sadako infamously crawling creepily out of the TV in The Ring? The classics all have a particular sequence we know them by, and every horror film that comes out attempts to bring us viewers a memorable one.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">This Halloween season is the perfect time to binge-watch our favorite horror movies and shows as we relive the terrifying scenes that kept us up at night as children. PLDT Home has all the titles everyone needs for a proper scare-a-thon — there are so many to choose from across HBO GO, Lionsgate Play, and Viu, all of which are accessible at a better deal via a PLDT Home subscription.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Ready for some major trauma throwback? This long weekend, add these five horrific-turned-iconic moments to your Halloween 2023 watchlist!</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: Lato;">That moment when you can’t seem to escape a stare… (The Nun II)</span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214968&authkey=%21AMXL39_tU_YX48s&width=1000&height=743" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="800" height="475" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214968&authkey=%21AMXL39_tU_YX48s&width=1000&height=743" width="640" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Set in 1956 France, <i>The Nun 2</i> follows Sister Irene (Taissa Farmiga, <i>American Horror Story, The Bling Ring</i>) as she investigates the mysterious death of a priest and comes face-to-face with the demon nun Valak. It also takes place in a boarding school, where young students also encounter Valak and other horrors.</span></p><p><span style="white-space: normal; white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"> </span></span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Just like the first movie and other films in the <i>The Conjuring</i> universe, Valak is a terrifying presence that often startles viewers with her dark, ghoulish appearance. One scene in <i>The Nun 2</i> shows Sophie (Katelyn Rose Downey, <i>The Princess</i>) running through the school’s dark corridors, where she witnesses Valak watching her at the end of each hallway. The scene creates a tense atmosphere as viewers watch Sophie try to escape the hallways and Valak’s deathly gaze, making them feel like they’re running away with her.</span></p><div><div><b><span style="font-family: Lato;">That moment when your home suddenly feels unsafe… (The Grudge)</span></b></div><div><b><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214969&authkey=%21AO7BemFvHfHNio0&width=1000&height=712" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="570" data-original-width="800" height="456" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214969&authkey=%21AO7BemFvHfHNio0&width=1000&height=712" width="640" /></span></a></div><b><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>The Grudge</i> centers around an American nurse (Sarah Michelle Gellar, <i>Buffy the Vampire Slayer</i>) living in Tokyo, who becomes the target of an angry spirit terrorizing her home. She later finds out that she’s living at the site of a deadly curse that claims the lives of those that encounter it.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;">The film is mostly remembered for the spine-chilling appearances of ghosts Kayako and Toshio. A scene that’s haunted many viewers to this day is the staircase encounter, where Kayako chases the protagonist while crab-walking down the steps. What truly makes this so terrifying is the croaking noise of the death rattle that comes out of her mouth. It was an unexpected scene that shocked even the most dedicated horror fans.</span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><div><b><span style="font-family: Lato;">That moment when gore becomes the name of the game… (Saw)</span></b></div><div><b><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214970&authkey=%21AFMSMpx0wDCF5Wo&width=1000&height=661" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="800" height="423" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214970&authkey=%21AFMSMpx0wDCF5Wo&width=1000&height=661" width="640" /></span></a></div></div><div><b><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;">For slasher film buffs, Saw is a definite must-watch. The entire franchise is centered around mastermind Jigsaw (Tobin Bell,<i> Malice, The Road to El Dorado</i>), and how he tests humanity’s resolve through deadly “games.” The first Saw movie sets the tone, introducing viewers to the types of “games” victims are forced to participate in. Most of the time, they have to hurt themselves to avoid getting killed.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;">Saw isn’t for the faint of heart as it shows a lot of gruesome scenes. Probably the most iconic was the film’s final segment, where Dr. Lawrence Gordon (Cary Elwes, The Princess Bride) cuts off his own leg using a saw to get out of his chains. Even with one’s eyes closed, Lawrence’s painful screams are very much heard.</span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><div><b><span style="font-family: Lato;">That moment when you realize your misadventure is no fun at all… (The Cabin in the Woods)<br /><br /></span></b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214971&authkey=%21AINRGK5tlyyVtyo&width=1000&height=664" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="531" data-original-width="800" height="425" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214971&authkey=%21AINRGK5tlyyVtyo&width=1000&height=664" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;">Horror fans love <i>The Cabin in the Woods </i>because of how it satirizes the genre while still maintaining the spooks. It follows a group of teenagers going on a camping trip — and as they spend the night in the namesake cabin, they witness disturbing horrors that are trying to kill them.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>The Cabin in the Woods</i>’ scares are inspired by other iconic horror movies, which can sometimes be comedic. But one of the most haunting moments in the film is when Dana (Kristen Connolly, <i>House of Cards</i>) and Marty (Fran Kranz, <i>Dollhouse</i>) discover a secret lab that houses all the horrors that are meant to torment and murder humans. They are later released in the lab, attacking all the defenseless scientists and workers. The entire scene is bloody and brutal, which has left a lasting impression on many viewers.</span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><div><b><span style="font-family: Lato;">That moment when aliens don’t seem as friendly as those seen in cartoons … (Duty After School)</span></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214972&authkey=%21AJqky7w17EM61LE&width=1212&height=630" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="416" data-original-width="800" height="333" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214972&authkey=%21AJqky7w17EM61LE&width=1212&height=630" width="640" /></span></a></div><b><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;">Korean series <i>Duty After School</i> tells the story of Seongjin High students who are recruited by the government to fight against man-eating alien creatures hailing from the sky. It’s the perfect series to binge-watch for people who love the sci-fi dystopia genre.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;">There are some, err, stressful scenes with the students trying to defend themselves from the creatures – something fans of gore and monsters will enjoy. One gruesome scene shows a group of students running away from an alien attack as the camera pans across a street filled with dismembered bodies. A female student who tries to shoot the alien also gets stabbed in front of her peers. That’s the worst one can ever experience during a deadly invasion, and with wild rumors of aliens swirling about nowadays, it’s something people wouldn’t want to think about if extraterrestrial guests ever come knocking.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><i><span style="font-family: Lato;">This Halloween weekend, catch these terrifying titles and more on some of the world’s biggest entertainment platforms HBO GO, Lionsgate Play, and Viu – best streamed with PLDT Home. Unlock unli-entertainment and more when you apply for Fiber Unli All Plan 1799 at 200 Mbps! Visit a PLDT Store near you or go to <a href="http://pldthome.com/fiber-unli-all" target="_blank">pldthome.com/fiber-unli-all</a> to apply now. (PR)</span></i></div></div>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-85960800157712834952023-09-20T12:47:00.001+08:002023-09-20T12:47:13.212+08:00REVIEW | ‘Concrete Utopia’ wrecks and shocks, revealing the inhumanity amid disasters<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214796&authkey=%21AAo-S-nEqDDoqBE&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214796&authkey=%21AAo-S-nEqDDoqBE&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Lato;">From being the central plot in the
supernatural superhero series <i>Uncanny
Counter 2</i> to a story arc in the vigilante show <i>Taxi Driver</i>, KDrama fans have long been informed that owning an
apartment unit is a big deal in South Korea - whether to keep up with
appearances or being everyone’s end-goal in hustling. It is no surprise then
that its official Oscar submission for Best International Feature Film, <i>Concrete Utopia</i>, revolves around the
residents of the solely standing apartment building after a devastating
earthquake in Seoul.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Lato;">But instead of being a derivative of Hollywood
disaster films like <i>San Andrea</i>s which
were more often than not, disastrous, <i>Concrete
Utopia</i> follows the footsteps of Academy Awards 2020 Best Picture <i>Parasite</i> by expertly mashing it with
societal commentary. This time the Korean parasites are referred to as
cockroaches.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Lato;">On the other hand, outsiders see the residents
of Imperial Palace Apartments Building 103 as cannibals, which can be taken
figuratively. While there are no zombies here on a train en route to Busan, the
real villains are flesh-and-blood humans without any paranormal power,
overwhelmed by survival instincts and greed.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Lato;">Still, the film shows that amid a community’s
inhumanity, humanity still exists. Min-seong (Park Seo-joon), a public servant,
and his nurse wife Myeong-hwa (Park Bo-young) attempt to bring a sense of
normalcy to the apartment under the leadership of charismatic “resident
delegate” Yeong-tak (Lee Byung-hun).</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Lato;">PSJ stans may also notice that the actor, who
is set to appear in Marvel Studios’ <i>The
Marvels</i>, has a role far different from the headstrong characters he played
in <i>Itaewon Class</i> and <i>What's Wrong with Secretary Kim</i>. Park
carries the needed subtlety in conveying a pragmatic husband, albeit with
confusing loyalties.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Lato;">The same can be said with actress Park
Bo-young of <i>Strong Girl Bong-soo </i>fame.
Casting her as a compassionate nurse with good detective skills highlights her
acting range. Kudos also to the makeup and costume teams for toning down the
appearances of these Hallyu stars.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Lato;">Fans of dystopian films may see similarities
in themes already shown in <i>The Walking
Dead</i> series and even a plot point in <i>The
Mist,</i> also helmed by the zombie series' first season director Frank
Darabont. The latter also mirrors the scenario of strangers confined in one
space dealing with catastrophes and dangers, both outside and inside. There is
a risk for non-casuals to find the twists clichéd and unoriginal.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Lato;">In the third act, <i>Concrete Utopia</i> shifts into a murder mystery. Director Um Tae-hwa (<i>Vanishing Time: A Boy Who Returned</i>)
shows he is a master at building tension.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Lato;">Based on the webtoon <i>Pleasant Bullying</i>, <i>Concrete
Utopia</i> may not appear as revolutionary in the eyes of genre fans but its
societal commentary is enough to keep viewers engrossed. It again presents the
question of whether we have to lose our humanity to survive.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Lato;">South Korea also shows that it has the CGI
capabilities to compete with Hollywood while not dismissing character
development to a fault. Too bad the Philippines, which is no stranger to
disasters - from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, typhoons, to storm surges -
can only watch a VFX-heavy foreign film that can easily resonate with us.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Lato;">Rating: 9/10</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Lato;">Concrete
Utopia is showing in Philippine cinemas starting Wednesday, Sept. 20.</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="401" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LB7Dtqm4zo8" width="483" youtube-src-id="LB7Dtqm4zo8"></iframe></i></div><i><br /><span lang="EN"><br /></span></i><p></p><p></p>
Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-72017460590195652772023-09-08T11:24:00.004+08:002023-09-08T11:24:25.355+08:00New Review on PhilSTAR L!fe | The Nun II<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214735&authkey=%21ACLfWoGBT8R2_Vw&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214735&authkey=%21ACLfWoGBT8R2_Vw&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Sensation seekers are more likely to enjoy <i>The Nun II</i>, the third film featuring the demon nun Valak first introduced in <i>The Conjuring 2</i> in 2016. As my seatmates during the advance screening can attest, I became a textbook example that its jump scares work, shrieking from row L of the IMAX theater about five times. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Read the rest of my review on <a href="https://philstarlife.com/geeky/762242-review-the-nun-ii" target="_blank">PhilSTAR L!fe</a>.</span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-6669807679559206212023-09-05T11:23:00.003+08:002023-09-05T11:23:44.000+08:00REVIEW | 'One and Only' captures the endearing chaos of streetdance <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214721&authkey=%21AHQQmyNQROm-f8Y&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214721&authkey=%21AHQQmyNQROm-f8Y&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Lato;">Coming in without any knowledge of who Wang Yibo is, save for the description on the invitation that he is a huge Chinese pop star, did not distract me from putting <i>One and Only,</i> the streetdance movie he top bills, under the microscope. Yet throughout its two-hour runtime, I found that there's not much to nitpick but a lot to admire about it. <i>One and Only</i> tops on my list of best dance movies in recent memory.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">First, let's get it out that the plot is formulaic. Young busker Chen Shuo (Wang Yibo) benched his dream of becoming part of a popular dance crew to help his mom with their finances. Hip-hop veteran-turned-coach Ding Lei (Huang Bo) then taps him to be a breakdancer stand-in as their main star goes full diva, skips rehearsals, and moves to recruit expat members. It has all the works of an underdog movie. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">So how do you humble someone who is apparently the best in what he does?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Enter a myriad of dance sequences that seem to bend the law of physics. The choreography is top-notch, highlighted with impeccably timed editing. <i>One and Only</i>'s cinematography adds depth to Chen's character. The technicals marry with the story well, you wouldn't notice you've been sitting in the theater for two hours. The meticulous editing of various shots also reflect how complicated and hard it is to pull off dance routines. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">While the movie not only showcases Wang's dancing skills but also his acting chops, Huang's comedic timing gives the much-needed break between melodramatic moments. <i>One and Only</i>'s<i> </i>supporting cast also gets their chance to shine with their respective subplots, without making the whole film convoluted. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Director Dong Chengpeng captures the endearing chaos of streetdance with finesse. It's good that my introduction to Wang Yibo is <i>One and Only. </i>Wang shows he is more than just a pretty face or a pop idol. On top of his gravity-defying moves, he can act well and tug at the heartstrings.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Rating: 9/10</span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: Lato;">One and Only opens on Aug. 6 in SM Cinema in the Philippines.</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-41980369417295364122023-09-05T09:57:00.000+08:002023-09-05T09:57:04.728+08:00New Review on PhilSTAR L!fe | Gran Turismo: Based on A True Story<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214719&authkey=%21AOEYxfU-weOMbUA&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214719&authkey=%21AOEYxfU-weOMbUA&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Lato;">A multi-layered race car-video game hybrid drama, <i>Gran Turismo</i> has all the trappings of an underdog story engaging you enough until the finish line. Read my full review on <a href="https://philstarlife.com/geeky/299145-review-gran-turismo" target="_blank">PhilSTAR Life</a>. </span><p></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-4123059079456462422023-08-29T16:42:00.002+08:002023-08-29T16:42:06.143+08:00New Review on PhilSTAR L!fe | Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214596&authkey=%21AAAN3urojRXcKSA&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214596&authkey=%21AAAN3urojRXcKSA&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p>A potential hit for all ages, <i>Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem</i> updates its boomer origins with Gen Z sensibilities and millennial nostalgia to tackle racial discrimination and prejudices persisting throughout this day. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Read my full review on <a href="https://philstarlife.com/geeky/662138-review-teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-mutant-mayhem" target="_blank">PhilSTAR Life</a>.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-57330373874380079682023-08-23T09:03:00.007+08:002023-08-23T09:03:43.589+08:00New Review on PhilSTAR L!fe | Blue Beetle<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214601&authkey=%21ABRs03qdX_yY_a0&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214601&authkey=%21ABRs03qdX_yY_a0&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Blue Beetle </i>has strengthened my admiration for the reluctant superhero I enjoyed watching in animation and reading in comics. Read my full review on <a href="https://philstarlife.com/geeky/223259-review-blue-beetle" target="_blank">PhilSTAR Life</a>.</span><p></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-63075920548570608682023-08-14T18:43:00.000+08:002023-08-14T18:43:00.144+08:00New Review on PhilSTAR L!fe | Red, White, & Royal Blue<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214612&authkey=%21ACj-B7g28yuCLv0&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214612&authkey=%21ACj-B7g28yuCLv0&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p>Sublimely silly and fun to watch, <i>Red, White, & Royal Blue</i> is a precious rom-com, not because it is groundbreaking, but because it is refreshing to see a happy gay couple on screen. Read my full review of this movie on <a href="https://philstarlife.com/geeky/119211-review-red-white-royal-blue-prime-video" target="_blank">PhilSTAR Life</a>.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-45144678047870995262023-08-09T14:08:00.002+08:002023-08-09T14:08:16.142+08:00More things to look forward to in 'Blue Beetle'<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214601&authkey=%21ABRs03qdX_yY_a0&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214601&authkey=%21ABRs03qdX_yY_a0&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></a></div><p><br /></p>While we’re all excited to hear our very own Inka Magnaye voice the Scarab in the Philippine release of <i>Blue Beetle</i>, there are many other things to look forward to about the all-new superhero movie from Warner Bros. Pictures and DC. Read on to find out what <i>Blue Beetle</i> filmmakers think will get moviegoers even more excited! <p></p><p><b>Focus on family</b></p><p>Says director Ángel Manuel Soto of the close-knit Mexican-American Reyes family at the center of the film, “In this origin story, the family – contrary to other superhero movies where the hero keeps the secret from everybody around him – the secret really happens in front of the family. So, Gareth [Dunnet-Alcocer, screenwriter] always said, ‘Good luck trying to hide a secret from your mom in a Latino household, they always know!’ And we kind of like embraced that, so this made for a very unique journey where the family is part of the adventure, not a group of people or an object of rescue, but on the contrary, an integral part of the construct of this superhero.”</p><p><b>The humor</b></p><p>“Its tone is… it has to be funny,” says Mexican-born screenwriter Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer “I’ve never met a Mexican person that wasn’t funny, so there’s no way the movie wouldn’t be funny. But what kind of funny it is, is wonderful, and I think it’s really inspired by the tone of the early Blue Beetle comics, where you have a hero that’s fallible.”</p><p><b>Fun with superpowers </b></p><p>Jaime Reyes’s experience as a new hero in a brand new suit is unique. “Can he fly? Yes. Is he strong? For sure. Are there big action sequences? Absolutely,” says producer John Rickard. “But it’s the special abilities of the suit, which are unlike anything else in the DCU, that make it so ridiculously cool, because it allows Blue Beetle endless superpowers. He’s literally a 20-something who has a suit that can create anything he can imagine. And so, what does this young kid do with these powers? He pulls from what he knows: pop culture. Things he knows in his everyday life. Our action sequences in ‘Blue Beetle’ are definitely inspired by a lot of gamer combos, which makes it feel like a video game come to life. Those who know will know.”</p><p><b>An all-original city for a new superhero</b></p><p>In the comics, Jaime Reyes and his family live in El Paso, Texas, but the studio thought it would be a better idea to create an entirely new setting – a new place unique to the world of Blue Beetle called Palmera City. </p><p>“They thought it might make sense to give Jaime and Blue Beetle his own unique city, much like Superman has Metropolis, The Flash has Central City. We loved this idea,” says producer Zev Foreman. “It suddenly got brighter; it suddenly got more colorful. It suddenly got the idea of water and how it combines with this place. The idea of the different sides of a place like Miami, in terms of the people that live there, the wealth that’s there, other things. It provided so many awesome opportunities to create a really unique environment in a superhero genre. And, again, it starts to inform the sounds, the music, the feeling, the lighting, all of these things, and I think it was an amazing choice.”</p><p>In <i>Blue Beetle</i>, recent college grad Jaime Reyes (Maridueña) returns home full of aspirations for his future, only to find that home is not quite as he left it. As he searches to find his purpose in the world, fate intervenes when Jaime unexpectedly finds himself in possession of an ancient relic of alien biotechnology: the Scarab. When the Scarab suddenly chooses Jaime to be its symbiotic host, he is bestowed with an incredible suit of armor capable of extraordinary and unpredictable powers, forever changing his destiny as he becomes the superhero Blue Beetle. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="508" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j6hxeDmcaME" width="611" youtube-src-id="j6hxeDmcaME"></iframe></div><p><i>Blue Beetle</i> opens exclusively in cinemas August 16. </p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-17769071131215840752023-08-09T11:56:00.000+08:002023-08-09T11:56:09.227+08:00Sing your heart out once more: Disney’s 'The Little Mermaid' returns to select cinemas in a special sing-along version<p><span style="font-family: Lato;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214599&authkey=%21AOKwnX1K5ieA1_8&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214599&authkey=%21AOKwnX1K5ieA1_8&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></span></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Relive Disney’s <i>The Little Mermaid </i>in a special sing-along edition, arriving in select Philippine cinemas on August 16. Sing the film’s best songs with your friends and family, and enjoy the retelling of a classic tale at your favorite cinema.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Experience this incredible, timeless tale, alongside exciting and emotional songs from the film, now with sing-along lyrics. This special edition of the film encourages everyone to sing their hearts out and enjoy each moment from the first number to the last. It’s definitely a treat for moviegoers experiencing the film for the very first time, or for ones who want to re-watch the entire tale once more.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Disney’s <i>The Little Mermaid</i> is the story of Ariel, a beautiful young mermaid with a thirst for adventure. However, she also lives in a place where mermaids are forbidden to interact with humans, especially being King Triton’s daughter.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Determined to explore the vast world above the sea, she sets off and meets the dashing and handsome Prince Eric and falls for him. After this fateful meeting, Ariel follows her heart and makes a deal with Ursula, an evil sea witch. This gives her a chance to be part of the world on land but ultimately places her life and the fate of her father’s crown in jeopardy.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The film stars singer and actress Halle Bailey (Ariel), Jonah Hauer-King (Prince Eric), Tony Award®-winner Daveed Diggs (the voice of Sebastian), Awkwafina (the voice of Scuttle), Jacob Tremblay (the voice of Flounder), Noma Dumezweni (Queen Selina), Art Malik (Sir Grimsby), with Oscar® winner Javier Bardem (King Triton), and two-time Academy Award® nominee Melissa McCarthy (Ursula).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Disney’s <i>The Little Mermaid</i> is directed by Oscar nominee Rob Marshall, and produced by two-time Emmy winner Marc Platt, three-time Tony Award winner Lin-Manuel Miranda, Emmy winner John DeLuca, and Rob Marshall, with Jeffrey Silver serving as executive producer.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The film also features an incredible soundtrack and score composed by Academy Award winner Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman, and produced by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Listen to the full soundtrack on Spotify <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/40tsP3taBOC9HqNaLCZZKP?si=UkgoNd59T1C8fUm5zakzxQ&context=spotify%3Aalbum%3A40tsP3taBOC9HqNaLCZZKP" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Don’t miss the special sing-along screening of Disney’s <i>The Little Mermaid </i>when it arrives in cinemas.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">For more updates, you can also follow Disney Studios Philippines on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WaltDisneyStudiosPH/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/disneystudiosph/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/DisneyStudiosPH?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@WaltDisneyStudiosPH" target="_blank">YouTube</a>. #TheLittleMermaidPH</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214600&authkey=%21AMdcA5Sly8-57vE&width=8140&height=12020" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="542" height="800" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214600&authkey=%21AMdcA5Sly8-57vE&width=8140&height=12020" width="542" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span><p><br /></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-60688890021092272252023-08-08T13:52:00.004+08:002023-08-08T13:54:39.745+08:00Disney+ shares new trailer, poster for Marvel Studios’ 'Loki' season 2<p><span style="font-family: Lato;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214597&authkey=%21AImMYReNW_3bu5c&width=600&height=350" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214597&authkey=%21AImMYReNW_3bu5c&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></span></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Disney+ released a brand-new trailer and poster to celebrate the upcoming second season of Marvel Studios’ <i>Loki</i>. The first season of <i>Loki</i> is the most-watched Marvel Studios series on Disney+, and the second season promises new excitement as it thrusts the infamous God of Mischief into a new set of adventures with the TVA.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The series stars Tom Hiddleston, Sophia Di Martino, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Wunmi Mosaku, Eugene Cordero, Rafael Casal, Tara Strong, Kate Dickie, Liz Carr, Neil Ellice, with Jonathan Majors, Ke Huy Quan and Owen Wilson. Justin Benson & Aaron Moorhead, Dan Deleeuw and Kasra Farahani direct episodes. The head writer is Eric Martin. Kevin Feige, Stephen Broussard, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum, Kevin R. Wright, Tom Hiddleston, Justin Benson & Aaron Moorhead, Eric Martin and Michael Waldron are the executive producers, with Trevor Waterson serving as co-executive producer.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Marvel Studios’<i> Loki </i>Season 2 begins streaming on October 6, exclusively on Disney+.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214598&authkey=%21ANNhw0t8Ls6SD4s&width=1688&height=2500" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="540" height="800" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214598&authkey=%21ANNhw0t8Ls6SD4s&width=1688&height=2500" width="540" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="426" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ug64smRUOl8" width="513" youtube-src-id="Ug64smRUOl8"></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span><p><br /></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-30286053267551452622023-08-08T11:00:00.000+08:002023-08-08T11:00:00.840+08:00'Barbie' passes a billion dollars worldwide<p><span style="font-family: Lato;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214561&authkey=%21AGKiYKQNyxRnUn0&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214561&authkey=%21AGKiYKQNyxRnUn0&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></span></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">With no signs of slowing down, Warner Bros. Pictures’ <i>Barbie</i> races past the billion-dollar mark over the weekend, just 17 days in release in North America and most international markets, taking in a record-smashing $1.0315 billion worldwide, with $459.4 million coming in from domestic theaters and $572.1 million overseas. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The widely acclaimed box office juggernaut and cultural phenomenon has also launched filmmaker Greta Gerwig into the record books as the first woman to surpass that benchmark as a solo director. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The announcement was made today by Jeff Goldstein, President of Domestic Distribution, and Andrew Cripps, President of International Distribution, for Warner Bros. Pictures.</span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: Lato;">Watch the “Greta’s Vision” for Barbie in this featurette</span></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="399" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K14OOqwdWCA" width="480" youtube-src-id="K14OOqwdWCA"></iframe></span></div><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">In making the announcement, Goldstein and Cripps stated, “As distribution chiefs, we’re not often rendered speechless by a film’s performance, but Barbillion has blown even our most optimistic predictions out of the water. This is a watershed moment for ‘Barbie,’ and no one but Greta Gerwig could have brought this cross-generational icon and her world to life in such a funny, emotional and entertaining story, one that is resonating with all four quadrants of moviegoers and literally turning the entire world pink. Long lines and repeat viewings prove that movies are back in a big, big way, and we look forward to seeing just how far ‘Barbie’ can go in the real world.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Added Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy, Co-Chairs & CEOs of Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group, “A massive achievement like this is possible when you have an incredible filmmaking team, with cast and crew coming together to create a truly special moviegoing experience. Along with our partners at Mattel, and with the support of the entire Warner Bros. Discovery family, we are thrilled that audiences the world over are embracing the ‘Barbie’ movie in such a profound way. With ‘Barbie’ becoming the biggest film at the summer box office, Greta now joins an elite group of writer/directors whose singular vision has generated $1 billion at the global box office, a milestone that is testament to her brilliance and to her commitment to deliver a movie that Barbie fans of every age want to see on the big screen.”</span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: Lato;">Watch the trailer</span></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="397" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X5nmPBArz3U" width="478" youtube-src-id="X5nmPBArz3U"></iframe></span></div><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Since the film’s hugely anticipated debut, it has continued to smash every studio benchmark that preceded it, including all-time daily, weekly and weekend highs, as well as being the fastest to reach $400 million domestically and $500 million internationally. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Barbie</i> is now showing exclusively in cinemas. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Read my review of <i><a href="https://www.jeralduy.com/2023/07/barbie-review.html" target="_blank">Barbie</a></i> here.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-8318086116990979392023-08-07T15:19:00.002+08:002023-08-07T15:19:26.429+08:00'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem' earns 97% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, final trailer released<p><span style="font-family: Lato;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214596&authkey=%21AAAN3urojRXcKSA&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214596&authkey=%21AAAN3urojRXcKSA&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></span></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">This is bonkers, yo! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The first reviews for <i>Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem</i> are in, and they’re pretty gnarly… in the most awesome way possible. The film, directed by Jeff Rowe (Oscar-nominated The Mitchells vs. the Machines) and written by a team that includes Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, currently has a 97% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">It features a star-studded voice cast that includes Jackie Chan, Rose Byrne, Hannibal Buress, John Cena, Ice Cube, Natasia Demetriou, Ayo Edebiri, Giancarlo Esposito, Post Malone, Seth Rogen, Paul Rudd and Maya Rudolph. The titular teenage mutant ninja turtles are voiced by Micah Abbey, Shamon Brown Jr, Nicolas Cantu and Brady Noon. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>The Hollywood Reporter</i> couldn’t sing enough praises of the film as it complimented the visuals, the dialogue and the voice acting. The film “features vibrantly distinctive visuals that perfectly suit the rambunctious and frequently violent proceedings,” they said. “The dialogue proves consistently amusing (not surprising considering Rogen’s participation), and the fact that the young actors voicing the <i>TMNT</i>s were actually teenagers when they recorded their performances infuses a welcome youthful energy to the goings-on. The celebrity performers seem to be having a blast as well.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">“Fans will not be disappointed with any of the decisions here, notably the scattershot animation that feels rough around the edges, stylish, visually surprising and satisfying and anti-CGI blandness,” said <i>Deadline Hollywood</i>, who also praised the story for being “heavy on pop culture humor in all the best ways.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Watch the final trailer</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qqc4jJr28w8" width="440" youtube-src-id="qqc4jJr28w8"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /> </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Indiewire raved that <i>Mutant Mayhem</i> “is another fresh, funny animated outing that breathes serious new life into a classic franchise, proving that even old IP has its legs (claws?)” and called it “a genuinely entertaining film for the whole family.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">“This lively reboot is a raucous collage of influences,” said <i>Mashable</i>. “But whether you're an expert on the canon or not, the movie sets up all you need to follow its flow. Deep-cut fans will surely pull out references and implications, but newbies won't be lost amid the flood of characters, in part because their main purpose is to be a tornado of energy, action, and comedy.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">To learn more about <i>Mutant Mayhem</i>, go behind the design and learn more about the original and fresh look of the Ninja Turtles in the film. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Watch the design featurette</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="399" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/krw5ycnwREI" width="480" youtube-src-id="krw5ycnwREI"></iframe></span></div><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem</i> opens in Philippine cinemas August 23. Cowabunga! </span></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-46025143819392063432023-07-27T17:22:00.002+08:002023-07-27T17:22:51.222+08:00Join the Galaxy’s favorite ragtag heroes when they come to Disney+ <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214274&authkey=%21AIygLThr_Pykyw0&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214274&authkey=%21AIygLThr_Pykyw0&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will begin streaming on Disney+ August 2. Watch the <a href="https://youtu.be/j564RLAR43I" target="_blank">TV spot</a> and get ready for our beloved heroes’ arrival on the streaming service. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">In Marvel Studios’ <i>Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3</i> our beloved band of misfits are settling into life on Knowhere. But it isn’t long before their lives are upended by the echoes of Rocket’s turbulent past. Peter Quill, still reeling from the loss of Gamora, must rally his team around him on a dangerous mission to save Rocket’s life—a mission that, if not completed successfully, could quite possibly lead to the end of the Guardians as we know them.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The film stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldaña, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff, featuring Vin Diesel as Groot and Bradley Cooper as Rocket, Sean Gunn, Chukwudi Iwuji, Will Poulter and Maria Bakalova. James Gunn is the director and also wrote the screenplay. Kevin Feige produces with Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Nikolas Korda, Sara Smith, and Simon Hatt serving as executive producers. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Marvel Studios’ <i>Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3</i> comes exclusively to Disney+, joining the other two films of the trilogy, <i><a href="https://www.jeralduy.com/2014/07/star-lord-steve-gan-royalties-marvel-guardians-of-the-galaxy.html" target="_blank">Guardians of the Galaxy</a></i> and <i><a href="https://www.jeralduy.com/2017/05/jerald-uy-myx-marvel-gotgvol2.html" target="_blank">Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2</a></i>.; and the <i><a href="https://philstarlife.com/geeky/949399-review-the-guardians-of-the-galaxy-holiday-special" target="_blank">Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special</a></i>.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Read my review of <i>Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 </i><a href="https://philstarlife.com/geeky/983408-review-guardians-of-the-galaxy-vol-3" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-23039183465992964672023-07-27T11:43:00.005+08:002023-07-27T11:43:43.005+08:00REVIEW | Haunted Mansion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214568&authkey=%21ANZe4DkdSLMFYYQ&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214568&authkey=%21ANZe4DkdSLMFYYQ&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Haunted Mansion</i>, Disney’s second attempt to adapt the eponymous Disney ride for live action, is a superior iteration to 2003’s <i>The Haunted Mansion</i> which was neither funny nor scary. While embracing B-movie spookiness and silliness, <i>Haunted Mansion</i> tackles the concept of grief with much care. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;">The plot revolves around a mother and son who find themselves forced into the mansion, leading them to recruit an exorcist priest, an astrophysicist-turned-paranormal tour guide, and a seance to aid them. A history professor with a heart problem voluntarily joins this ad hoc Scooby gang. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;">Expect a lot of giggles and funny antics as they solve the mystery of the hauntings. But what makes this kid-friendly horror comedy worth watching is its authentic lessons on grief. Brace for scenes that could induce a cathartic crying jag for individuals still needing to process losing someone. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;">Flashbacks involving actor LaKeith Stanfield and his subsequent breakdown adds realism to the movie. It is good that <i>Haunted Mansion</i> showed a person who acted so strong could easily bawl his eyes out. This, plus a revelation in the third act, presents a great opportunity to teach kids in the audience that mortality, grief, and loss are what make living important.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;">On the downside, assembling a diverse set of characters under one roof feel convenient for the story to move. It might also be good to give visual hints of the kid’s father so children in the audience would not miss an important plot twist.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Haunted Mansion</i> feels like reading a <i>Goosebumps</i> pocketbook. It has the right amount of fun spooks and life (and death) lessons that can spark conversations among the family members after watching the film.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span style="font-family: Lato;">Rating: 8/10</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Haunted Mansion</i> is now playing in Philippine cinemas.</span></div><p></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-84760889704757178192023-07-25T17:22:00.003+08:002023-07-25T17:22:32.113+08:00Must-watch movie of the year 'Past Lives' coming to Philippine cinemas on August 30<p><span style="font-family: Lato;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214563&authkey=%21AIs46px_2MmFcXY&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214563&authkey=%21AIs46px_2MmFcXY&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></span></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">TBA Studios has acquired the exclusive theatrical distribution rights to A24's critically acclaimed film <i>Past Lives</i> in the country.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Past Lives </i>is a heartrending modern romance that follows the story of two deeply connected childhood friends who drifted apart. Two decades later, they are reunited in New York for one fateful week as they confront notions of destiny, love, and the choices that make a life. With stunning cinematography and a gripping narrative, the film has been hailed as one of the best films of the year and received rave reviews from critics and audiences alike.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">"We are incredibly excited to bring Past Lives to the Philippines," said TBA Studios President and COO Daphne O. Chiu. "This film is a hauntingly beautiful masterpiece and we are confident that it will leave a lasting impression on everyone who sees it."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">TBA Studios is at the forefront of bringing the best international films to the Philippines. The company has previously distributed acclaimed titles like <i>Triangle of Sadness, Nocebo, Plan 75, Fanny: The Right To Rock</i>, and <i>Lingua Franca</i>. <i>Past Lives</i> marks the third acquisition and distribution partnership between TBA Studios and A24 following the successful Philippine release of the multi-awarded film <i>Everything Everywhere All At Once</i> and <i>The Whale</i>.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="401" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ERcIVeYhgC0" width="483" youtube-src-id="ERcIVeYhgC0"></iframe></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">With the theatrical release of <i>Past Lives</i>, TBA Studios continues its commitment to providing moviegoers with high-quality cinematic experiences.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Past Lives</i> is the directorial debut of writer-director Celine Song and it stars Greta Lee, Teo Yoo, and John Magaro.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The film will be released in Philippine theaters nationwide on August 30.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214562&authkey=%21AD1515XQ3DC9kl4&width=3240&height=4050" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="640" height="800" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214562&authkey=%21AD1515XQ3DC9kl4&width=3240&height=4050" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span><p></p><div><br /></div>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-84554670058145283452023-07-25T16:10:00.002+08:002023-07-25T16:10:15.041+08:00'Barbie' dazzles the global box office with $337M opening bow, breaks records in PH<p><span style="font-family: Lato;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214561&authkey=%21AGKiYKQNyxRnUn0&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214561&authkey=%21AGKiYKQNyxRnUn0&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></span></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Barbie</i> fever took over the box office as moviegoers, some proudly donned in their brightest pinks, flocked to cinemas so they wouldn’t miss catching one of the year’s most hotly anticipated movies on its opening weekend. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Greta Gerwig’s <i>Barbie </i>arrived in theaters globally to a record-shattering $337 million worldwide, taking in $182 million in international markets and $155 million in the US, and counting. The announcement was made by Jeff Goldstein, President of Domestic Distribution, and Andrew Cripps, President of International Distribution, for Warner Bros. Pictures.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Watch the “Greta’s Vision” for “Barbie” in this featurette</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="398" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K14OOqwdWCA" width="479" youtube-src-id="K14OOqwdWCA"></iframe></span></div><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Swept in on a wave of social memes and sell-out shows, <i>Barbie</i> sailed into international theaters beginning Wednesday July 19, and took the #1 spot in 55 markets, including the Philippines where it also broke records. The Margot Robbie-Ryan Gosling starrer now holds the local record for the biggest Warner Bros. opening weekend for the year and during the COVID era, and the biggest opening weekend locally for director Gerwig and Gosling, who plays Ken. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Propelled by massive anticipation and widespread critical praise, “Barbie” has scored well with audiences, earning an A audience score and a 90% audience rating from Rotten Tomatoes. The Robbie-led film about the classic doll was a hit with critics as well, with a 90% certified fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes as of this writing. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">“The massive, overwhelming response we’ve seen out there proves what we’ve known from the beginning: that ‘Barbie’ is not only an incredibly special film, but clearly the theatrical event of the summer, if not the year,” said Warner Brothers’ Jeff Goldstein, President of Domestic Distribution.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">“Greta, Margot, Ryan and the entire <i>Barbie</i> team have delivered exactly the kind of fun, transporting theatrical experience that audiences everywhere have been craving, as they continue to demonstrate in numbers we haven’t seen since before the pandemic. We couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of it, and congratulate everyone involved in this brilliant labor of love.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Added Andrew Cripps, President of International Distribution for Warner Bros. Pictures: “The incredible results we’ve seen across every releasing market is a testament to not only Greta’s singular vision but the cross-generational impact of Mattel’s iconic creation all over the world. Everything about this film – from its cotton candy-pink wit to the warm-hearted optimism at its core – is engaging with people of all ages in a powerful way, as the long lines at theaters and massive excitement on social media continue to attest. Greta Gerwig and her remarkable cast and crew have delivered absolutely the right film at the right time, and with word-of-mouth and repeat business this strong, that momentum is likely to continue well into the year.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Barbie</i> is now showing exclusively in cinemas. Read my review <a href="https://www.jeralduy.com/2023/07/barbie-review.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </span></p><p><br /></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-69620008371373837062023-07-25T15:31:00.001+08:002023-07-25T15:31:51.901+08:00Disney+ reveals new trailer and key art for 'Star Wars: Ahsoka'<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214559&authkey=%21AA5AnRNTpq4C0SE&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214559&authkey=%21AA5AnRNTpq4C0SE&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Disney+ has released an exciting new trailer and key art for Lucasfilm’s <i>Star Wars: Ahsoka</i> and also announced that the series debut on August 23 will kick off with the first two episodes. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Check out the featurette <i><a href="https://youtu.be/_S6-FHhfveU" target="_blank">Journey to Ahsoka</a></i> to learn more about the series from its creators and stars. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Set after the fall of the Empire, <i>Star Wars: Ahsoka </i>follows the former Jedi Knight Ahsoka Tano as she investigates an emerging threat to a vulnerable galaxy.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Ahsoka </i>stars Rosario Dawson, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Ray Stevenson, Ivanna Sakhno, Diana Lee Inosanto, David Tennant, Lars Mikkelsen and Eman Esfandi. The episodes are directed by Dave Filoni, Steph Green, Peter Ramsey, Jennifer Getzinger, Geeta Vasant Patel and Rick Famuyiwa. Dave Filoni is the head writer and executive producer along with Jon Favreau, Kathleen Kennedy, Colin Wilson and Carrie Beck. Karen Gilchrist serves as co-executive producer. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Lucasfilm's <i>Star Wars: Ahsoka</i> launches on August 23, exclusively on Disney+.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214560&authkey=%21ANN3Je30t2uKbYM&width=1688&height=2500" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="540" height="800" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214560&authkey=%21ANN3Je30t2uKbYM&width=1688&height=2500" width="540" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span><p></p><p><br /></p><p> </p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-3164785554576499522023-07-20T15:13:00.003+08:002023-07-20T15:13:25.886+08:00REVIEW | Oppenheimer<p><span style="font-family: Lato;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214552&authkey=%21AB9kYMrbTjyaGHU&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214552&authkey=%21AB9kYMrbTjyaGHU&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></span></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Christopher Nolan’s magnum opus <i>Oppenheimer</i> never shies away from treating the Manhattan Project scientists as people who played gods with the creation of the atomic bomb nearly 80 years ago. The allegories are astute, with the film opening with the Greek myth of Prometheus - who stole fire from the Olympian gods; and adding a scene referencing Oppenheimer’s frequently quoted line of Hindu scripture from the Bhagavad-Gita: “Now I am become (sic) Death, the destroyer of worlds.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Despite this, it does not paint the titular character as an infallible being. Excellently portrayed by Cillian Murphy, Oppenheimer had politics that did not align with the government that handpicked him to be the lead scientist. He was also a known womanizer. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">As cinephiles are quite aware, it is rare for a Nolan film to follow a linear structure and Oppenheimer is no exception. The narrative is divided into two parts - “Fission”, presented in black-and-white shows the POV of Lewis Strauss (Robert Downey, Jr.), who chaired the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission (AEC); and “Fusion”, shown in full color focusing on Oppenheimer’s POV. It gets confusing at the beginning of the film but viewers would get the drift eventually on how these two prominent figures in US history eventually became estranged.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The film keeps its fast pace, without viewers realizing three hours have gone by. Seeing the detonation of the first atomic bomb in New Mexico should be filed as one of the best cinematic experiences, especially on an IMAX screen. The script has intricate details, some of which I failed to comprehend - blame it on my dependence on subtitles in streaming platforms.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Murphy nailed his character who struggles with being responsible for the deaths of 70,000 to 135,000 people in Hiroshima and 60,000 to 80,000 people in Nagasaki, Japan. Nolan’s choice not to shoot any scene in Japan nor rehash archival footage of the atomic bomb explosions adds layers of guilt and inner turmoil for the lead character.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Nudity might have been in excess but it does serve a role in making the audience uncomfortable. Oppenheimer was stripped of his clothes before a government probe - much like his dignity. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">There’s no flaw to spot on the powerhouse cast. Emily Blunt, who portrays Oppenheimer’s common-law partner Kitty, is a standout. And she does not even have to have a line. She can just stare at you to oblivion.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Oppenheimer</i> ends with a disturbing note about how the science and politics of the 20th Century led to the film’s probable gruesome sequel. It’s no spoiler. Just watch the news.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: Lato;">Rating: 10/10</span></b></p><p><i><span style="font-family: Lato;">Oppenheimer is now showing in Philippine cinemas. It’s R-16.</span></i></p><div><br /></div>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-5622506148129623362023-07-19T12:25:00.003+08:002023-07-19T12:29:02.827+08:00REVIEW | Barbie <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214230&authkey=%21AJwHYmo0FdPlOug&width=600&height=350" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214230&authkey=%21AJwHYmo0FdPlOug&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">It's not often that we could enjoy a campy movie that also makes us think deeply about the gender roles and stereotypes that shaped the world, for good or ill. While self-aware and self-deprecating, <i>Barbie</i> also serves as a deep study of the human journey, giving us a hard and honest look at aging and mortality.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">A popular IP would have been critic-proof but filmmaker and co-writer Greta Gerwig did not go on the easy route of using a fluffy story just so she could attract girls to the theaters. While it is based on a doll, the story speaks more to adult women, and hardly, girls, who have lived through multitudes of struggles in a society run by men. This is contrasted to the idealized world of Barbie Land, where the protagonist - the stereotypical <i>Barbie</i> (Margot Robbie) - and other Barbies were not limited to what they could be. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Still, Barbie felt something off with the redundant lifestyle in her world. This sets off a journey with Ken (Ryan Gosling) to the Real World, where the latter discovers gender disparity, patriarchy—and horses. All hell breaks loose as the borders between the world of ideas cross over with reality.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Gerwig and co-writer and partner Noah Baumbach concocted one of the best smart comedies I’ve watched on the best screen, which is best experienced with an eager audience. For the toy enthusiast, there are the pop culture references peppered with the hits-and-misses of Mattel’s toy lines, and even those of Warner Bros. Pictures. For those wanting a straightforward Ken and Barbie love story, there’s a subplot that you might enjoy. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Still, the dance choreographies, colorful clothes, and meta jokes are only cherries on top. <i>Barbie</i> is an existential masterpiece that forces us to confront what we are really doing with our lives. There’s also a bit of stoicism where it teaches us that not being extraordinary is okay after all, and losing the superficial beauty as we go through life - to actually live and breathe - is all worth it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><b>Rating: 10/10</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Barbie is now showing in Philippine cinemas.</i></span></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-57710818557196848382023-07-13T16:37:00.002+08:002023-07-13T16:46:17.458+08:00REVIEW | Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://snz04pap002files.storage.live.com/y4mhw5KxBX3m4XzgeiCJZKHdsOYt7VOFROr-51x073mXwGJF6WK8gKo_H0IqVeHXnBdSfuK57RbMofXDGt8wTm7_rdIycxkEOUxNYVZQk_LadoVi5G1kAV_uqxIIeWcBqHJwd0TyN4AqYv4PqEkiXcZIjZPxtjBGU6JkpS4-nhyVlpOXe9huyzBgTRKuHFolSdm?width=600&height=350&cropmode=none" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://snz04pap002files.storage.live.com/y4mhw5KxBX3m4XzgeiCJZKHdsOYt7VOFROr-51x073mXwGJF6WK8gKo_H0IqVeHXnBdSfuK57RbMofXDGt8wTm7_rdIycxkEOUxNYVZQk_LadoVi5G1kAV_uqxIIeWcBqHJwd0TyN4AqYv4PqEkiXcZIjZPxtjBGU6JkpS4-nhyVlpOXe9huyzBgTRKuHFolSdm?width=600&height=350&cropmode=none" width="600" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Save for a couple of exposition dumps, <i>Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One</i> is a perfect spy thriller featuring a top-notch female cast and a showcase of Tom Cruise's most daring stunts yet.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Seven seems to be a lucky number for the latest installment of the <i>MI</i> franchise that started 23 years ago - 57, if we're counting the TV series. After dusting off the <i>Top Gun</i> franchise last year with <i>Top Gun:</i> <i>Maverick</i>, filmmaker Christopher McQuarrie reunites with Cruise and the protagonist Ethan Hunt to helm a tech suspense film that is relevant.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">As AI is all the rage right now, the story co-written by McQuarrie and Erik Jendresen has Hunt and his colleagues face against the Entity, a sentient set of algorithms who could predict every possible outcome. It's not too long interested parties from people bent on world domination to individuals who could place integrity over self-preservation enter the picture.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The premise is nothing new. You've seen this plot from blockbusters like <i>Avengers: Age of Ultron, Captain America: The Winter Soldier,</i> and in <i>The Fast and Furious</i> films. Yet <i>Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One</i> makes it more believable with its grounded approach on AI as a manipulative player in global warfare, that is not entirely far from happening in a heavily digital world. It is also an excellent storytelling technique that that film barely shows the Entity, save for about a couple of screensavers. The MI franchise may have found its most eerie antagonist yet.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Cruise is a daredevil on the set and the movie is a good excuse for the actor to show off his stunts, including the much-publicized motorcycle jump off a cliff. It certainly paid off - watching it on the big screen is among the biggest highlights of my cinema experience. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The movie also features a strong female cast - Rebecca Ferguson, Hayley Atwell, Pom Klementieff, and Vanessa Kirby - each one portraying their characters with finesse and intricacies. Klementieff is a standout assassin, that is a break away from the naive alien empath Mantis she played in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3. There's only a hint of her backstory in the movie which I hope would be eventually revisited in <i>Part Two</i>.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">A top-notch action flick with well-thought-out characters and great pacing, <i>Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One</i> will make the 160 minutes of your life and movie ticket all worth it.</span></p><p><b>Rating: 9/10</b></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One </i>is now showing in Philippine cinemas.</span></p><p><br /></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-9707721909875681652023-07-13T11:39:00.006+08:002023-07-13T11:39:52.366+08:00New 'Blue Beetle' trailer reveals villains Victoria Kord, Carapax<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214521&authkey=%21AHkPHvOZ9meIDbU&width=600&height=350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214521&authkey=%21AHkPHvOZ9meIDbU&width=600&height=350" width="600" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">DC Studios has dropped the latest trailer for <i>Blue Beetle</i> starring Xolo Maridueña of <i>Cobra Kai</i> fame. It also revealed more scenes of apparent villainess Victoria Kord, played by Oscar winner Susan Sarandon; and the brute Carapax, the Indestructible Man, played by Raoul Max Trujillo.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The film, directed by Angel Manuel Soto, stars Maridueña in the title role as well as his alter ego, Jaime Reyes. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">In the story, recent college grad Jaime Reyes returns home full of aspirations for his future, only to find that home is not quite as he left it. As he searches to find his purpose in the world, fate intervenes when Jaime unexpectedly finds himself in possession of an ancient relic of alien biotechnology: the Scarab.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">When the Scarab suddenly chooses Jaime to be its symbiotic host, he is bestowed with an incredible suit of armor capable of extraordinary and unpredictable powers, forever changing his destiny as he becomes the superhero Blue Beetle.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="385" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j6hxeDmcaME" width="463" youtube-src-id="j6hxeDmcaME"></iframe></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Starring alongside Maridueña (<i>Cobra Kai</i>) are Adriana Barraza (<i>Rambo: Last Blood, Thor</i>), Damían Alcázar (<i>Narcos, Narcos: Mexico</i>), Elpidia Carrillo (<i>Mayans M.C.</i>, the <i>Predator</i> films), Bruna Marquezine (<i>Maldivas, God Save the King</i>), Trujillo (the <i>Sicario</i> films, <i>Mayans M.C.</i>), with Sarandon (<i>Monarch, Dead Man Walking</i>), and George Lopez (the <i>Rio</i> and <i>Smurf</i> franchises). </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The film also stars Belissa Escobedo (<i>American Horror Stories, Hocus Pocus 2</i>) and Harvey Guillén (<i>What We Do in the Shadows)</i>. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Soto (<i>Charm City Kings, The Farm</i>) directs from a screenplay by Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer (<i>Miss Bala</i>), based on characters from DC Comics. John Rickard and Zev Foreman are producing, with Walter Hamada, Galen Vaisman, and Garrett Grant serving as executive producers.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Blue Beetle</i> is showing on Aug. 16 in Philippine cinemas.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214522&authkey=%21AKUV_C19UmSki8k&width=1080&height=1920" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="450" height="800" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=B7B6A0F60E02F1D0%214522&authkey=%21AKUV_C19UmSki8k&width=1080&height=1920" width="450" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span><p></p><p><i><span style="font-family: Lato;">Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #BlueBeetle.</span></i></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-55639965267498720082023-06-14T14:39:00.006+08:002023-06-14T14:39:42.470+08:00Filipinos can now play The Division Resurgence in regional beta<p><span style="font-family: Lato;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://snz04pap002files.storage.live.com/y4mVRlXcOaW1ZLARbXykXY8W5-2FIi8lNA0KOa62Af--lR-LAzHhlnhFLyFKShS3WNX6r1q7IuTsyG9nBkTSOTIZ-tc63WO96YYK7h-wPYxm1dpue6PicfAzaub7eWN87ZgnamK5tCZWx2kmGfLXjbQDLDKT7IvYWXjcODtDxm8WcPXbmjD0e_AG3P8HdrlEurt?width=600&height=350&cropmode=none" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Lato;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://snz04pap002files.storage.live.com/y4mVRlXcOaW1ZLARbXykXY8W5-2FIi8lNA0KOa62Af--lR-LAzHhlnhFLyFKShS3WNX6r1q7IuTsyG9nBkTSOTIZ-tc63WO96YYK7h-wPYxm1dpue6PicfAzaub7eWN87ZgnamK5tCZWx2kmGfLXjbQDLDKT7IvYWXjcODtDxm8WcPXbmjD0e_AG3P8HdrlEurt?width=600&height=350&cropmode=none" width="600" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: Lato;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Ubisoft has announced its launch window for <i>Tom Clancy’s The Division Resurgence</i>, a new free-to-play third-person RPG shooter mobile game set in a massive urban open world during Ubisoft Forward Live, </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>The Division Resurgence</i> brings the acclaimed The Division AAA experience to handheld devices. In this new opus to the <i>Tom Clancy’s The Division</i> franchise, players will see a new and independent storyline set in a vast open world where they will be free to roam around an outstanding detailed urban environment with a stunning and unique perspective on key story events that have taken place in <i>The Division</i> and <i>The Division 2</i>. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>The Division Resurgence</i> will launch for Android and iOS devices this Fall 2023. Android and iOS players who pre-register now will receive unique in-game rewards at launch. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://snz04pap002files.storage.live.com/y4mYhf7ivpHPjIP0qiuQgdNSzewpxYmT0k4St6Q8N1QeUoB8vEwrrD-P-uBEM4kqPyucpAssBw2GQQV-Uu3W_ez9TTo8PUTDo0DDmwVll5qn_lH-rcYQrJrOPm21XsDeNIP9ROGaG0MTAMqj4VmNCYWKNjQWrb8OJF9PFYcKFGGVfzhjxHMY5zrkFDTh9qQftum?width=1250&height=754&cropmode=none" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="483" data-original-width="800" height="386" src="https://snz04pap002files.storage.live.com/y4mYhf7ivpHPjIP0qiuQgdNSzewpxYmT0k4St6Q8N1QeUoB8vEwrrD-P-uBEM4kqPyucpAssBw2GQQV-Uu3W_ez9TTo8PUTDo0DDmwVll5qn_lH-rcYQrJrOPm21XsDeNIP9ROGaG0MTAMqj4VmNCYWKNjQWrb8OJF9PFYcKFGGVfzhjxHMY5zrkFDTh9qQftum?width=1250&height=754&cropmode=none" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">In the meantime, players in select countries can participate in a regional test and play <i>The Division Resurgence</i> beginning June 13 which will run until July 24. Selected countries include Australia, Chile, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, Norway, <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tencent.tdr.sea" target="_blank">the Philippines</a>, Spain, and Sweden. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Players in these areas can register to participate in this Regional Beta on the Google Play Store on Android devices or the App Store on iOS devices (available later in the Philippines). Selected players will be invited to participate in the beta. Mobile players who have participated in previous tests, regardless of region, will also have the chance to play The Division Resurgence during the Regional Beta. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">The regional beta will include new content compared to previous test phases, including more main missions, activities, and a new agent specialization. Players are encouraged to share their feedback with the development team through an in-game survey and bug report tools. Players can also provide feedback on <i>The Division Resurgence</i>’s official Discord server.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://snz04pap002files.storage.live.com/y4muJfHOPL6tZIUeMQarsNYDYzGe_H8RFfL0FyCLePGJ_VzF0-H4QcQILNlsQ25MC1Zd__VhqX6aIqbyUyGVGrlsPGeYkbMC6adAweyyExv8_5OLbunmfgkS-RTd3vNJ6fP_-eDejQhbvXZvq2AjjQdmCp_UAe7Wblcpjig1Y6ParzvbwarRUEzZxLsCnSf53Gs?width=1200&height=675&cropmode=none" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="360" src="https://snz04pap002files.storage.live.com/y4muJfHOPL6tZIUeMQarsNYDYzGe_H8RFfL0FyCLePGJ_VzF0-H4QcQILNlsQ25MC1Zd__VhqX6aIqbyUyGVGrlsPGeYkbMC6adAweyyExv8_5OLbunmfgkS-RTd3vNJ6fP_-eDejQhbvXZvq2AjjQdmCp_UAe7Wblcpjig1Y6ParzvbwarRUEzZxLsCnSf53Gs?width=1200&height=675&cropmode=none" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tencent.tdr.sea" target="_blank">Pre-registrations</a> are also open for players from Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia and Indonesia through our publishing partner Level Infinite on the Google Play Store on Android devices. Pre-registrations on the App Store on iOS devices will open at a later date. Stay tuned.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">For more information about <i>Tom Clancy’s The Division Resurgence</i>, please visit the <a href="https://tdrsea.com/" target="_blank">official website</a>.</span></p><div><br /></div>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-24827382838326388022023-06-14T11:03:00.005+08:002023-06-14T11:03:46.749+08:00New Review on PhilSTAR L!fe | The Flash<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://snz04pap002files.storage.live.com/y4mJ0IQYenc55_fTVNrT6xI4TyNf03R_3X-Cj6xIsy20Hw2zZQpgvnTxYXropzJIzIm39LO0uZbfoYwLgORVxT2fnku5zsenBEfD96AwH427Ymj9EiAWuulhL5JePCUSjCCaUd6E8T-LWP9lA5G2HD_PHmshhjxmvy8vwdLdiVFsnTSFCfSzRasjBP07CAAi6hr?width=600&height=350&cropmode=none" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://snz04pap002files.storage.live.com/y4mJ0IQYenc55_fTVNrT6xI4TyNf03R_3X-Cj6xIsy20Hw2zZQpgvnTxYXropzJIzIm39LO0uZbfoYwLgORVxT2fnku5zsenBEfD96AwH427Ymj9EiAWuulhL5JePCUSjCCaUd6E8T-LWP9lA5G2HD_PHmshhjxmvy8vwdLdiVFsnTSFCfSzRasjBP07CAAi6hr?width=600&height=350&cropmode=none" width="600" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>The Flash </i>is now showing in Philippine cinemas. Read my review on <a href="https://philstarlife.com/geeky/626884-review-the-flash" target="_blank">PhilSTAR Life</a>.</span></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988502534919676064.post-38731926108659508182023-06-13T10:59:00.000+08:002023-06-13T10:59:05.231+08:00New Review on PhilSTAR L!fe | Transformers: Rise of the Beasts<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://snz04pap002files.storage.live.com/y4mM9V2FYsydknzXDonRQ0ZDBmXh2S7XW4ZMOhjAWurQcz--TXRSgZAprMLHDTQtBkUgCiK_3STAIyODq4degJzYJWLBjm95r_c3yLpQvBxSBPr14aGpZOBAln-ZlYqmKg2pez7SKhM0f_DuGmQA3aIlkJnDyfjGstiEE_keuxvXgNUz2RP62Tym5No_LzsEr_Z?width=600&height=350&cropmode=none" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="600" height="350" src="https://snz04pap002files.storage.live.com/y4mM9V2FYsydknzXDonRQ0ZDBmXh2S7XW4ZMOhjAWurQcz--TXRSgZAprMLHDTQtBkUgCiK_3STAIyODq4degJzYJWLBjm95r_c3yLpQvBxSBPr14aGpZOBAln-ZlYqmKg2pez7SKhM0f_DuGmQA3aIlkJnDyfjGstiEE_keuxvXgNUz2RP62Tym5No_LzsEr_Z?width=600&height=350&cropmode=none" width="600" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: Lato;"><i>Transformers: Rise of the Beasts</i> has kickstarted the Hasbro shared universe.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Lato;">Read my review of the movie on PhilSTAR L!fe <a href="https://philstarlife.com/geeky/613583-review-transformers-rise-of-the-beasts" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></p><p></p>Jerald Uyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03739758275535399804noreply@blogger.com0