February 26, 2018

Review: RED SPARROW



Jennifer Lawrence reunites with Hunger Games director Francis Lawrence in spy-agent thriller Red Sparrow which will be shown in cinemas February 28.
Jennifer Lawrence stars as Dominika Egorova in “Red Sparrow,” who is drafted against her will to become a “sparrow,” a trained seductress in the Russian security service. Dominika learns to use her body as a weapon, but struggles to maintain her sense of self during the dehumanizing training process. Finding her power in an unfair system, she emerges as one of the program’s strongest assets. Her first target is Nate Nash (Joel Edgerton), a CIA officer who handles the agency’s most sensitive infiltration of Russian intelligence. The two young operatives fall into a spiral of attraction and deception, which threatens their careers, allegiances and the security of both countries. Based on the book by former CIA officer Jason Matthews, “Red Sparrow” reunites Jennifer Lawrence with her “Hunger Games” director, Francis Lawrence with with Joel Edgerton, Matthias Schoenaerts, Charlotte Rampling, Mary-Louise Parker and Jeremy Irons rounding out the cast.

Spending her life under Matron would demand greater thinking of what people actually want seeing yourself involved. What I like about it is how Dominika was able to control American and Russian governments into her hands and get what she wants at the end.

Red Sparrow's plot would turn you around and will twist you on your seats as the bloodbath after an erotic encounter is openly shown. From what I think, Red Sparrow made an exploitation of Jennifer Lawrence because of the nudity it displays. JLaw might have agreed on the terms and the storyline but I think, she as an advocate of the "Me Too" movement, I wonder how she felt while shooting this, not to mention about the nude photos that surfaced years ago where she felt really violated of its spread. But that's up to her and decisions have been made and she's mature enough to decide on her own.
If you're looking for intense action, Red Sparrow will not provide car chases but play on your mind with excitement. This is also Jennifer Lawrence's most brutal and daring movie yet. Rated R-16.


“Red Sparrow” opens February 28 in cinemas nationwide from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

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February 22, 2018

Santa Clarita Diet returns March 23rd!


The most beautiful zombie comes back to screens on March 23 through Netflix. Santa Clarita Diet will be streaming season 2 and I am ready for some killings. LOL
Now that the neighborhood is noticing the disappearance of some people, Joel and Sheila Hammond are still OK, seriously. Sheila has been more advanced in her dead state and working to hold on to her normal life and not to spread fear outside. But the craving for human flesh has been more intense and murder tricks have been more cutting-edge. They are still looking for the source of the virus to stop it from spreading and save humanity.
I wonder what happened to the strong convict who was also bitten and got alive in the past season.

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February 19, 2018

THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI movie review



Just as I am writing this I realized that this movie title has lots of repeated letters in it. Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri is not your typical comedy-drama movie.
In an unresolved murder of her daughter, Mildred (Frances McDormand) to rent three billboards that caught national attention that also put the local police station to struggle. The beginning went very interesting when the billboards were put out. In this case, if you work as an advertising supplier, you don't really think what message will be delivered as long as you easily earn big bucks.
Being dubbed as the "bad girl" in the community, Mildred didn't stop in pursuing justice for her daughter. The irony that the person seeking justice was not given fair justice and her anger is felt every scene that you will be more attentive on why's and how's. You will hate her and pity her and you'll give better understanding of her feelings and what she's going through.

Given all the drama and violence, there are also scenes that you will be laughing at your seat. Her unlikely and unexpected relationships, and turn of events for people of power. There's also an issue of discrimination, not for her but for the people in the community.

Officer Dixon's (Sam Rockwell) home is also a funny place in the movie where a person in uniform bends over his dauntless mom. But in spite of a very stubborn officer, he thinks he can manage Mildred but he's wrong. He also has no means and power but amazingly redeems himself towards the end of the story.
I was broken hearted when Chief Willoughby (Woody Harrelson) has taken his life but at least he also saved himself from the negative perception of Mildred and community. He made poor choices but his letters after dying are very heartfelt.

From 20th Century Fox, “THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI” opens February 14 only in the following cinemas – Eastwood, Shangri-la Mass, Century City Mall, Commerce Mall, Festival Mall, Fisher Mall, Gateway Mall, Fora in Tagaytay and at Vista Cinemas: Evia, Las Pinas, Sta. Rosa, Bataan, Pampanga and Daang Hari.

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A very familiar poster for Teen Titans



Just LOL. That poster seem so familiar.
Warner Bros. released the teaser poster for Teen Titans Go to the Movies which will be in theaters, July 26.

“Teen Titans GO! to the Movies” finds our egocentric, wildly satirical Super Heroes in their first feature film extravaganza—a fresh, gleefully clever, kid-appropriately crass and tongue-in-cheek play on the superhero genre, complete with musical numbers.

It seems to the Teens that all the major superheroes out there are starring in their own movies—everyone but the Teen Titans, that is! But de facto leader Robin is determined to remedy the situation, and be seen as a star instead of a sidekick. If only they could get the hottest Hollywood film director to notice them. With a few madcap ideas and a song in their heart, the Teen Titans head to Tinsel Town, certain to pull off their dream. But when the group is radically misdirected by a seriously Super-Villain and his maniacal plan to take over the Earth, things really go awry. The team finds their friendship and their fighting spirit failing, putting the very fate of the Teen Titans themselves on the line!

Will Arnett (“The LEGO® Batman Movie”) and Kristen Bell (“Frozen”) lend their voices to the first-ever big-screen version of DC Entertainment and Cartoon Network’s animated TV show, which also stars Greg Cipes (TV’s “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”) as Beast Boy, Scott Menville (TV’s “Spider-Man”) as Robin, Khary Payton (“The Walking Dead”) as Cyborg, Tara Strong (the “My Little Pony” franchise) as Raven, and Hynden Walch (TV’s “Adventure Time with Finn & Jake”) as Starfire, reprising their roles from the series.

The film is being directed by Aaron Horvath and Peter Rida Michail, from a screenplay by Michael Jelenic and Horvath, based on characters from DC. Michail, Will Arnett, Jed Weitzman, and Peggy Regan are producing, with Sam Register, Jelenic, and Horvath serving as executive producers. Apart from Arnett and Weitzman, all are “Teen Titans GO!” series contributors.

“Teen Titans GO! to the Movies” is distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

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February 14, 2018

BLACK PANTHER movie review


I didn't have a lot of expectations because I barely new Black Panther as a superhero but this movie is the most awesome to date. A glorious movie for the African and black American race that even the trailer has put us all speechless for its awesomeness.
Starting it would just like be any other Marvel movie until you enter the kingdom of Wakanda which has all spectacular and amazing stuff happening from a person to the whole community. A stunning presentation of technological capabilities with a heart. Not only that it gives a great importance to the culture but it also gives its way to women of power and great contributions to society.
For example, Shuri (Letitia Wright) shows her intellectual strength with her great inventions. Little as she would look like, her talented brain has been recognized and apprecited by her ruling brother -- a very good sense of equality between man and woman in the movie. Okoye (Danai Gurira) keeps her promise and loyalty to the throne, Nakia (Lupita Nyong'o) reminds where T'Challa's heart should be. T'Challa's mother Ramonda, though won't be able to fight for her son, was able to give way to unity with other kingdoms which is also a very important thing.

The female members of the Dora Milaje are equally strong and gives the voice to women to fight for what's right and have the power to defend themselves even one of the strongest of their kind like Erik Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan).

Black Panther also displays the rich African culture through its wonderful costume design. When you look closely on the bright fabrics and accessories, the diverse patterns are very well detailed. Even the warfare are also exceptional that made fire weapons primitive. This was the coolest Marvel movie yet.
Black Panther is now showing in cinemas nationwide in 2D, 3D and IMAX formats. Bring everyone, I'm sure you'll enjoy it. :)

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February 12, 2018

Here's where to watch advanced screenings of Black Panther


Check out your local cinemas when Wakanda opens to the public and hails the new Marvel king, Black Panther this Tuesday, February 13 at 7:00PM.

Cinemas include SM Cinema and Ayala Cinemas both in and out of Metro Manila. Book for your cinema seat by clicking the links below:

Ayala Cinemas - https://www.sureseats.com/movies
SM Cinemas - https://smcinema.com/Schedule?mn=Black%20Panther

Black Panther casts Chadwick Boseman as the title hero, Lupita Nyong'o, Michael B Jackson, Danai Gurira, Martin Freeman, Daniel Kaluuya, Letitia Wright, Winston Duke, Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker, and Andy Serkis. Directed by Ryan Coogler.

Black Panther opens regular screening on February 14.

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February 10, 2018

Theater Review: Himala is a blessing



Sandbox Collective's Himala: Isang Musikal is not just a revival of an iconic film but a blessing. I was able to watch on a preview last February 9 and it's like living in a piece of heaven with the talented cast of Himala.
I must say that I am not fully aware of the story of Himala until last night. Power Mac Spotlight Center transformed into Barangay Cupang giving it an immersive theater experience. The wonderful set of dry twigs and the sight of poverty through their barong-barongs reminds us that heaven is not all something comfortable and good. It includes hardships that desperation that the neighborhood in Cupang has experienced.

Getting not too technical with just lighting and accompanied by a piano on the side, the cast and ensembles showed power that left me speechless on my seat and attentively listening on every song and script delivered. Aicelle Santos leading the cast as Elsa has proved more of herself as a sensational siren. From Katy, to Ang Larawan, she has has acting on the right track and owned the Elsa role.

Elsa's neighbors and so-called "believers" earned my cringe for their hypocrisy and exploits to their blessings. Congrats neighbors for being so effective. Alongside with her co-cast members, Bituin Escalante (Nanay Saling), Kakki Teodoro (Nimia), David Ezra (Orly), Neomi Gonzales (Chayong), Sandino Martin (Pilo) and all of the members of the ensembles is a powerful acting and singing collection of great talent. No lapels, no mics, just their amazing vocals could be heard by the angels.
Final Scene - Himala Isang Musikal
The final scene was unforgettable. Even though it may leave a messy stage after every show, I was also in delight to see a real shower that will give Cupang hope.

And seeing it is as special as seeing the Superstar Nora Aunor in the flesh.
Cast of Himala Isang Musikal with Nora Aunor and Ricky Lee

Himala Isang Musikal is a story by Ricky Lee with songs and lyrics by Vincent De Jesus, directed by Ed Lacson Jr. It runs from February 10-March 4, 2018. For inquiries and tickets, contact 0917.5545560, 586.7105, sab@thesandboxcollective.com, or Ticketworld at 891.9999.

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February 7, 2018

A review: 'night Mother


PETA's 50th season-ender might be far from their usual productions with musical endings, but 'Night Mother is a must watch for every one with a mother and for everyone who knows or might be suffering from depression. It is running at the PETA Theater Center until March 18. I have never seen so much relatable play like this one and PETA has achieved new level of awareness and understanding mental illness and suicidal attempts.
The 1.5-hour play sets in the simple home of Jessie (Eugene Domingo) and Thelma (Sherry Lara) that resembles much of our mothers' and grandmothers' homes in the 80s or earlier and I want to congratulate the set designer for bringing the sense of home to the audience. It has transported us to a place where good memories in contrary what Thelma and Jessie would be discussing throughout.
It's a strong exchange of dialogues that were affecting us in so many ways and levels. Thelma's simple and motherly reminders to Jessie are very touching, makes me want to cry when I remember similar words from my mother. When she tells some things that I may have forgotten, where to find them and what they are for. Jessie's lines on the other hand much resembles of me, sometimes when our parents get stubborn, we get impatient but still we have to control. Eugene Domingo and Sherry Lara made us love their characters and portrayed Jessie and Thelma very well. And I think that's a very familiar scene in all of us. But in spite of many shortcomings between a mother and a child, memories last but we still love each other no matter what. There will come a time that we will decide our own fate and leave them and in the end, we will resort to their care and company.
The real issue that needs to be addressed is Jessie's depression and that Thelma failed to stop Jessie's suicide episode. I brighten and gives us a learning that we should always be there for other people. That the power of conversation is very important in every relationship. It was great to see members of the Philippine Mental Health Org are there to educate us about mental illness. If you are in need of mental health support please call the 24/7 HOPELINE at (02) 804.4673; (0917) 558.4673 or 2919 (Toll Free for all Globe and TM subscribers).
'Night Mother runs until March 18. Directed by Melvin Lee, in memory of Director Soxie Topacio.

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February 5, 2018

Sing along with The Greatest Showman in SM Cinemas



I am a fan of The Greatest Showman for many three main reasons: THEATRICAL, MUSICAL, and HUGH JACKMAN. But when I saw it, I instantly also became a fan of the songs and especially Keala Settle belting out This is Me. I happen to be streaming the soundtrack featuring songs by Academy Award winning lyricists Benj Pasek and Justin Paul since and I couldn't miss a day without studying and memorizing the lyrics.
But fortunately, we can now all sing with Hugh Jackman, Zack Efron, Zendaya, Keala Settle while watching The Greatest Showman as SM Cinemas bring the sing-along version of the movie starting February 7 in select theaters. Follow the bouncing top hat for every hit song with intricate visuals and dance choreography following the rags to riches life of PT Barnum, the greatest showman and founder of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, and the beginning of show business.

The Greatest Showman also features Michelle Williams and her emotional Tightrope song and Rebecca Ferguson's Never Enough, sung by Loren Allred. Be inspired and Rewrite the Stars with Zac Efron and Zendaya.
Listen to the official soundtrack and see you at the movies!

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