Wednesday, November 30, 2011

20TH CENTURY FOX SETS SAIL FOR 2012 LINEUP

20th Century Fox anchors in 2012 with big screen adaptation of classic favorites from television and books, phenomenal movie franchises and a novelty of ideas captured in unparalleled 3D technology employed by the Fox lot.
Chpwrecked

The returning cast of “Alvin and the Chipmunks” strikes a third in Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked” where Dave (Jason Lee) is on board a luxury cruise liner with the gang for a well-deserved break.  Incidentally, they find themselves in a deserted island after going overboard during the trip.  Thinking that they have found a tropical paradise, they soon found out that they are not alone.
We Bought A Zoo

From the life-affirming bestselling memoir “We Bought A Zoo” by Benjamin Mee, director Cameron Crowe translates Mee’s inspiring journey on screen with much poignancy.  Starring Matt Damon, Scarlett Johannson, Elle Fanning and Thomas Haden Church, the movie is a story of triumph over adversity to save Dartmoor Zoo in order to save the lives of the exotic animals that were destined to be put down.
Darkest Hour

Infused with electrifying 3D effects, “Darkest Hour” director Chris Gorak whose unforgettable art direction includes “Fight Club” and “Minority Report” gives the audience anew a movie experience like never before.  Starring Emile Hirsch, Max Minghella and Olivia Thirlby, the group is in Moscow when they were suddenly trapped in an alien attack catching all off guard. It soon becomes apparent that the aliens have an impenetrable defense and the humans are left helpless.
The Phantom Menace 3D poster

Supervised by George Lucas’ Industrial Light & Magic, “Star Wars Episode 1: the Phantom Menace” undergoes meticulous technological and artistic conversion for its long-awaited 3D movie release.  Navigating within a galaxy far, far away, the movie conversion is set to deliver most of the Saga’s amazing scenes from the peaceful planet of Naboo to nearby ally and warring galaxies.
Tom Hardy, Chris Pine and Reese Witherspoon

Tom Hardy and Chris Pine face a kind of war that’s hard to admit defeat when they both find out that they are battling for Reese Witherspoon’s undivided attention in “This Means War.” Inseparable since they were kids, both became the best CIA operatives (Pine and Hardy) who now turned against each other and start utilizing their technical skills to defeat one another.
Chronicle

“Chronicle” asks what are you capable of?  Directed by Josh Trank, the movie is reminiscent of hit thrillers shot in real time documentary-style such as “The Blairwitch Project” and “Cloverfield.”  Three high school kids unwittingly took matters into their own hands when they suddenly acquire special powers after being exposed to a mysterious substance from the woods and their darker sides soon begin to take over.
Titanic 3D

Coinciding with Titanic’s centennial year since sailing, James Cameron’s “Titanic” will be re-released in 3D which starred Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet. Rose DeWitt Bukater (Winslet) is a 17-year-old, upper-class American who falls for a free-spirited young passenger named Jack Dawson (DiCaprio). Once he opens her eyes to the world that lies outside her gilded cage, Rose and Jack's forbidden love begins a powerful mystery that ultimately echoes across the years into the present and not even the sinking of Titanic can come between them.
Three Stooges

From television’s classic black & white tubes, “The Three Stooges’” hilarious slapstick goes all color on the big screen brought about by the dynamic filmmaking duo Farrelly Brothers.  Starring Will Sasso, Sean Hayes and Chris Diamantopoulos, this is the story of three orphans named Larry, Joe and Moe remotely raised by nuns. But time came when they have go out into the world to save the orphanage from being shut down. Hilarity ensues when the world collides with these three nitwits as they raise money for the orphanage the only way they know how.
Prometheus

Known for his visceral presentation of the future from his movies “Alien” and “Blade Runner,” Ridley Scott’s latest 3D vision of the future will soon be revealed in “Prometheus (3D).”  Starring Michael Fassbender (“X-Men: First Class”) and Charlize Theron (“Aeon Flux”), the film introduces a groundbreaking mythology, in which a team of explorers discover a clue to the origins of mankind on Earth, leading them on a thrilling journey to the darkest and most dangerous corners of the universe. Testing their physical and mental limits, they soon discover that they must fight a terrifying battle to save the future of the human race.
Benjamin Walker and Timur Bekmambetov  behind  the  scenes

            From the pages of Seth Grahame-Smith’s “Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter” stars Benjamin Walker directed by Timur Bekmambetov. Like the pop-novel mash-up on which the movie is based, the movie follows Lincoln from his boyhood on the frontier through his assassination by John Wilkes Booth and beyond. Young Lincoln, having learned that his grandfather and mother were killed by vampires, vows to kill every last blood-sucker in a country that is crawling with them.
Ice Age: Continental Drift

            From the hugely successful “Ice Age” franchise, the endearing fun troupe of Manny and Ellie the mammoths along with Diego the saber-toothed tiger, Sid the sloth, Scrat, possums Crash and Eddie are back.   In “Ice Age: Continental Drift (3D),” Scrat’s nutty pursuit of the cursed acorn, which he’s been after since the dawn of time, has world-changing consequences -- a continental cataclysm that triggers the greatest adventure of all.

            Ben Stiller and Vince Vaughn reunite in “Neighborhood Watch” about a man who moves from the big city to the suburbs, and worries that his life will be boring now he’s away from the excitement of the metropolis.  But after signing up for the local neighborhood watch patrol, he’s soon thrust into uncovering a massive conspiracy.

            Based on the best-selling kid-friendly book by Jeff Kinney of the same title, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw” finds Greg Heffley in a dilemma over his wimpy ways.  Having realized that hard habits are hard to break, Greg couldn’t just make his father understand that he will never change being wimpy despite efforts to make his son toughen up.

            A follow up on Luc Besson’s 2008 surprise hard-core action film “Taken,” Liam Neeson’s character Bryan Mills shares more of the action with Maggie Grace’s Kim in “Taken 2.”  Mills, having been captured by a nemesis whose son was killed exacts revenge and lays the burden on Kim to save her parents.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

The Adventures Of Tintin:The Secret Of The Unicorn(2011)

Story:Adapted from the comic, The Adventures Of Tintin by Hergé of the same name compiling three titles, The Crab With The Golden Claws, The Secret Of The Unicorn, and The Red Rackham's Treasure.
Review: I am totally looking forward to this movie but I am also having my reservations on how loyal the movie can be to the comic series but it turned out well. The combination of the three titles for the movie adaptation was a good idea which was way better than what was done in Lemony Snickett's A Series Of Unfortunate Events. It was as if the combination didn't happened. It was different from the original story but the movie story pulled off just as good.
It was perfectly done in computer animation by Weta Digital, the same people who did James Cameron's Avatar and the remake of King Kong and of course, Lord Of The Rings Trilogy.. To make the computer animation flawlessly real, they also placed wires on the voice actors' faces just like what they did with Andy Serkis previously as Gollum and King Kong to copy those expressions while delivering their lines.The animation also removed the trademark eyes of the original comics with realistic eyes but didn't alter what the characters look like and was detailed from the looks, clothes,etc.The Adventures Of Tintin is based on the comic series of the same name by Hergé in the early 20th Century. It was also adapted in animation years later with the same drawing style. Tintin is originally a Belgian character same as the creator. Although this is not the first Tintin adventure in the comics, the Unicorn storyline was the best selection for the movie because it had lots of action and adventure.Jamie Bell who played for the title role of Tintin did a splendid job that it was remarkably similar to the cartoons. Also stars Andy Serkis as Haddock and Daniel Craig as Sackharine.

Advance screening was held at IMAX SM City North EDSA

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

ALECIA MOORE (AKA P!NK) LENDS VOICE TO GLORIA IN “HAPPY FEET 2”

            When Warner Bros.' highly anticipated sequel “Happy Feet 2” begins, “It’s party time,” says director George Miller, “and at the center of everything are Mumble and Gloria. Gloria is singing, Mumble is dancing, and everyone is inspired by the rhythm and chemistry between the two.”

            Mumble has grown up to be a respected leader within the Emperor penguin community. And if Mumble is the undisputed dance champ of Emperor Land, his mate Gloria is the undeniable diva. For the role of this powerhouse songstress, the filmmakers turned to Alecia Moore, also known as triple Grammy-winning recording artist P!nk. “P!nk was a natural for the role, and has been really superb,” says director Miller. “She had sung in the opening of the first movie and wanted to be involved again because she’s compassionate and a great animal lover. So for this one, in addition to voicing Gloria, she wrote the wonderful lullaby called ‘Bridge of Light,’ with Billy Mann.”

            No stranger to a recording booth, Moore was nonetheless a little nervous about making her voice acting debut. Watching other cast members helped to change that. She recounts, “I got to watch Brad [Pitt] and Matt [Damon] not only record some of their dialogue, but they also had to sing. They just went for it, and I thought, ‘Wow, I really have nothing to fear in there.’”

            Producer Doug Mitchell says, “When it came to Alecia’s turn to record, of course, she totally nailed it. She’s a great professional and a lovely person. Her song, ‘Bridge of Light,’ is wonderful and touches on one of the great themes in the movie.”

            Alecia Moore (P!nk) has sold over 40 million albums and 65 million singles worldwide, winning three Grammy Awards, five MTV Video Music Awards, and one World Music Award. P!nk has cemented her spot as one of the biggest female artists of the past decade, and the top five touring artist in the world with her record-breaking Funhouse World Tour, which elevated her from an arena performer to a global stadium act.

            In 2010, “Raise Your Glass,” the lead single on her compilation album celebrating a decade of success, Greatest Hits…So Far!!!, became P!nk’s tenth Top 10 hit. It was her second solo number one hit, following 2008’s "So What" from the album Funhouse, which also notched an additional three Top 20 hits.

            P!nk’s previous albums include the 2000 debut Can't Take Me Home; 2001’s  worldwide success Missundaztood;  2003’s Try This, which earned her a Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal performance for the single “Trouble”; and 2006’s I'm Not Dead, which generated five hit singles, including “U + Ur Hand” and “Who Knew,” which both went on to number one on the pop chart.  Rated number 13 on Billboard’s 2000-2009 list of Artists of the Decade and number one Pop Song Artist of the Decade, she was also voted Best Recording Artist in 2009. 

 “Happy Feet 2” is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

Monday, November 21, 2011

HUGH LAURIE, FROM “HOUSE” TO “ARTHUR CHRISTMAS”

Known for possessing a keen eye for the complex characters he creates, actor Hugh Laurie currently brings that talent to his work on the critically acclaimed series, "House" and on Sony Pictures Animation Studio's upcoming 3D holiday adventure “Arthur Christmas.”

The film at last reveals the incredible, never-before-seen answer to every child's question: “So how does Santa deliver all those presents in one night?” The answer: Santa's exhilarating, ultra-high-tech operation hidden beneath the North Pole. But at the heart of the film is a story with the ingredients of a Christmas classic – a family in a state of comic dysfunction and an unlikely hero: Santa’s youngest son, Arthur. When this amazing operation misses one child out of hundreds of millions, the least capable Claus embarks on a hilarious, exciting rogue mission against the clock to deliver the last present before Christmas morning dawns.

            Hugh Laurie joins the cast as Steve, Santa Claus' eldest son. “Hugh is marvelous as Steve,” says co-screenwriter Sarah Smith.  “The character is incredibly cool and slightly in love with himself – the kind of character that just doesn’t quite get it.  But Hugh completely gets it, and gave us a beautiful and funny performance.”

            “Steve isn’t the head of the operation.  As part of the Claus family, he plays a subordinate Claus,” says Laurie.  “But that is a terrible joke, unforgiveable, and if you use that, I will sue.”

            Steve is the hereditary heir to the Claus reign. He’s extremely qualified for the job, having introduced high-tech efficiency, military-style precision and the S-1: a mile-wide, invisible sleighship.  Steve has dreamed of being Santa all his life; he’s even redesigned the Santa suit into something more akin to Versace than Saint Nick. But Steve might still have a little catching up to do in the heart department.  

            “For Steve, running Christmas is the biggest challenge he could ask for,” says Smith.  “It’s like he’s running FedEx, UPS, and an army, all at once.  But he’s frustrated, because he can’t take what he sees as his rightful place as Santa Claus.”

            “Steve takes himself a bit too seriously – he’s sort of laughable at times, because he gets it so wrong,” says Laurie, “But we all do that from time to time.  He’s a very confident fellow who has plans for modernizing and updating the operation – he’s looking to run a state-of-the-art Christmas and he’s impatient with the softer, fluffier sides of the holiday.  He’s driven to maximize the gift-giving.  He might not have all the social skills you’d want in a boss, but he’s just doing things the way he thinks they ought to be done.”

            “Arthur Christmas” is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.  Visit www.sonypictures.com.ph to see the latest trailers, get free downloads and play free movie games.

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Happy Feet Two

Story: Mumbles and the gang are back in the sequel of Happy Feet! Jumping forward, we are now introduced to Erik, son of Mumbles and Gloria.

Review: I never thought that Happy Feet will have a sequel. It seemed to me the first story had a closure and it would be unlikely to have a new story. The movie brought back Elijah Wood, Robin Williams,  Hugo with exception of the late Brittany Murphy, of course, but was replaced Alecia Moore a.k.a. Pink. Also joining the original cast for the first time are Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Hank Azaria and Sofia Vergara.

 Although I still like the first movie, the sequel had lots of laughs. Robin Williams never fails to provide comic relief for his dual role as Ramon and Lovelace. Although the two characters are differently voiced depending on the characters, you can always identify Robin Williams by the voice since he made many voice characters such as Genie from Disney's Alladin, Batty from Ferngully: The Last Rainforest and a lot more. Thanks to his background in stand up comic acts.He also did the title role Popeye in a live action movie back in 1980 and made numerous impersonations in Good Morning, Vietnam in 1987 and a lot more to mention.

Pink also did wonderful for the role of Gloria. With her background as a recording artist and making her debut as a supporting character, we may not seen the last of her in the movies. Joining Williams in the movie's comic relief is Hank Azaria. He is also no stranger to voice acting. He did numerous regular characters in The Simpsons and is also a known comedian. What I never expected was that Brad Pitt and Matt Damon are also a revelation as the new comic duo in the movie. They are superbly hilarious. I would not be surprise if they had similar projects in the future.

The story does not concentrate on Mumbles alone. It also balances with every character especially his son Erik. This makes it also as a movie for the whole family and there are a lot to draw insights from. The 3D is the best way to enjoy the movie. I suggest to reserve the best seats early so you won't be run out or else the 3D may not be enjoyable. Happy Feet Two opens in cinemas November 23 and is distributed by Warner Bros. Phils. Advance screening was held at IMAX SM Mall Of Asia.

Saturday, November 19, 2011

“MARVEL'S THE AVENGERS” BANNERS

A couple of banners has just been unveiled for “Marvel's The Avengers”! Check out them out below!

             Marvel Studios presents “Marvel’s The Avengers”—the Super Hero team up of a lifetime, featuring iconic Marvel Super Heroes Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Thor, Captain America, Hawkeye and Black Widow. When an unexpected enemy emerges that threatens global safety and security, Nick Fury, Director of the international peacekeeping agency known as S.H.I.E.L.D., finds himself in need of a team to pull the world back from the brink of disaster. Spanning the globe, a daring recruitment effort begins.

             Starring Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner and Samuel L. Jackson, and directed by Joss Whedon, “Marvel’s The Avengers” is based on the ever-popular Marvel comic book series “The Avengers,” first published in 1963 and a comics institution ever since. Prepare yourself for an exciting event movie, packed with action and spectacular special effects, when “Marvel’s The Avengers” assemble in Philippine theaters on May 2012.

Friday, November 18, 2011

BRAD PITT, MATT DAMON ARE WILL & BILL IN “HAPPY FEET 2”

Warner Bros.' animated adventure “Happy Feet 2” introduces new characters of every dimension, from the largest scale to very tiny creatures.” In fact, the tiniest of the film’s creatures are voiced by two of today’s biggest stars: Brad Pitt and Matt Damon as Will and Bill The Krill.

            One of the film's most spectacular adventures is undertaken by the small fry. “It's the journey of two tiny krill, Will and Bill,” director George Miller says. “They live in a great biomass of billions and billions of krill that move with the tides…they're the bottom and the basis of the food chain. Every animal up the chain relies on krill. And in the middle of these indistinguishable billions are Bill and Will, played by Damon and Pitt. Will decides that he feels he's different from everyone else around him and he ventures outside the swarm. Will wants to evolve higher up the food chain. Bill, on the other hand, is terrified. He just wants to stay and continue to behave exactly like all the other krill.”

            Miller was happy to have the opportunity to pair Damon and Pitt in the recording studio to capture both their irrepressible banter…and their singing. “They were really very free, working off each other, because they know each other so well. Matt Damon can sing, and Brad Pitt made it really clear upfront he couldn’t. But Brad just said, ‘This is a no-shame zone; I’m just going to go out there and give it a go,’ and he did remarkably well. His singing is in the movie.”
            Damon admits, “The singing was a bit of a surprise. It was fun to just go for it and say, ‘What the hell?’ It’s definitely not my strong suit, but I figured, you gotta go loud or go home.”

            It was lucky for the filmmakers that both Pitt and Damon were available to record together in the same studio. And both actors agree they were fortunate to have a filmmaker like George Miller to guide them. Damon observes, “There is a contagious fearlessness that comes from George. You see a guy who loves the project that much and you realize that what made the first movie great is that spirit. Brad and I were doing stuff we’ve never done in any kind of movie, animated or not. We left there thinking, ‘Now that was cool!’”

            Co-producer Doug Mitchell adds, “We learned later on that Brad’s and Matt’s kids are fans of the first film, and I think it is safe to say that they had a lot to do with them taking the roles.”

            One should never undervalue the contribution of the small. Filmmakers learned that lesson, as Bill Miller comments, “Do not underestimate the power of children to pester their parents to act in a film. Matt Damon told us he hadn’t even cracked open the screenplay to ‘Happy Feet Two’ before his daughter said, ‘Dad, you’re doing it.’ Matt really had no choice.”

“Happy Feet 2” is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

CCP 23rd GAWAD PARA SA ALTERNATIBONG PELIKULA AT VIDEO

The Cultural Center of the Philippines is holding the Ika-23 Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video on November 22-25, 2011 at the CCP Tanghalang Manuel Conde (Dream Theater).

Competition categories are: Short Feature/Narrative, Experimental, Documentary and Animation. All works submitted to the compettion are independent works.

Cash prizes will be given to winners of the different categories (1st Prize, 25,000; 2nd Prize-15,000 and 3rd Prize, 10,000). Special Awards will be given for Best Regional Entry and Best Entry for/on/by Children. Recipients of the Special Awards will also be given cash prizes of P15,000 each. Honorable mention may be awarded by the jury.

Winners of the competition will be announced in the awards ceremony on November 25 at the CCP Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino. All entries to the competition will be screened during the Festival week from November 22-25 at the CCP Tanghalang Manuel Conde.

ADMISSION IS FREE! For more information, please call CCP Media Arts at 832-1125 locals 1702, 1704 and 1705.

Schedule of Screening

EXPERIMENTAL Programme 1 (1 hr 52 mins)

22 Nov/Tue (7:00PM)
Ako si Sky by Rogger Basco

Anomali by Abraham Alabado

At Ako'y Naidlip sa Katahimikan… by Ira Lastrilla

Bangungot by Gino M. Santos

Binatilya by Gideon Tomines

Blackout by Jirah Ruth Fermin

Class Picture by Timmy Harn, Gym Lumbera

Daydream by Lois Diane C. Moro

Dinig at Sana Kita by Kevin Francisco

Disquiet by Carlo Cielo

Electric Fan by Gino M. Santos

Epoy Deyto (1990-2011) by Epoy Deyto

Home is Not Where I Roam by Mariano Paulino Umali

htaK in tuo wolB (reverse celebration) by Mark G. Mirabuenos

Huwag Makalimot by Hector Calma

Idle by Reynmil M. Delgado

Itlog (No to RH Bill) by Sharwin Macato
Kokote by Ronnie Sapinoso

EXPERIMENTAL Programme 2 (1 hr 56 mins)

24 Nov/Thu (7:00PM)

Kubli by Hector B. Calma

Kumpisalang Bayan by Caloy Limjap Soliongco

Kuwarto by Josefino E. Recomono, Jr.

La Souffrance (Dusa) by Marck Lesther Bañares

Manenaya (Waiting) by Richard Soriano Legaspi

Manggaranon Kita, Di Bala? (We are Rich, Aren't We?) by Noel de Leon

O.F.S. by Donnie T. Sacueza

Obra ng Lipunan by Hector B. Calma

Paano Kung Wala? by Jenkin Joshua O. Baniqued

Psychedelia by Joni Gutierrez

Sino? by Roxcell Salanguste

The Playroom by Gino M. Santos

Tribeswoman by Khate Tadena, Jela Ramirez

Vanishing Air by Jingliang Tan

Wake Up! by Sarah Jane R. Mendoza

Yurak (Ang Panggagahasa kay Kalikasan) by AJ Roman

ANIMATION (1 hr 26 mins)

23 Nov/Wed (7:00PM)

A Worm's Tale by Hygie B. Ochoa

Ang Palitan by Gapi Zabala

Ay Bulate! by Daryl R. Layson

Choka & Kacho by Chi Zhuo

Delivery Boy by Jerrard King L. Cedro

Dwelo by Ronnie Sapinoso

Hagyanan (Staircase) by Anthony Lemuel C. Reorizo

Himig by Edlaine Ann S. Mercado

Kalaro by Girlie A. Palo

Larger Than Life by Glenn S. Oliva

Lolo by Carl Joseph Papa

Manong, Salamat Po! by Epoy Deyto

Olivette-Violette by Rafael A. Palcon, Jr.

Paano Hulihin ang Araw by Jane Mariel L. Almoneda

Sanayan lang ang Pagpatay by Gil Joseph A. Sanchez

Swords & Krises by Glenn S. Oliva

Think Outside the Box by Romulus L. Jerusalem

DOCUMENTARY Programme 1 (2 hrs 4 mins)

22 Nov/Tue (1:00PM)

Amianan by Byron Bryant

As Told by the Butterflies by Nawruz Paguidopon

Man's Best Friend by Camille Alamares

DOCUMENTARY Programme 2 (2 hrs 3 mins)

23 Nov/Wed (10:00AM)

Bastonero by Archel Miranda

Cinema in the Regions: 2nd Pambujan Film Festival by Noriel M. Jarito

Cutud by Jeyow Evangelista

Fraternity by Rovelin Enriquez, Jr.

He's a Girl by Shannen Que

Krump by Maria Francesca Lee & Grace Yann Apuad

Leaving Home by Epoy Deyto

DOCUMENTARY Programme 3 (2 hrs)

23 Nov/Wed (3:30PM

A Life of Vices by Jan Edward Sousa

Lokasyon sa Dislokasyon by Daena de Guzman

Lolo Pimong Gener by Mark G. Mirabuenos

Murang Edad by Philcon Remotin

The Mother (Ang Ina) by Donnie T. Sacueza

DOCUMENTARY Programme 4 (2 hrs 4 mins)

24 Nov/Thu (1:00PM)

Agos (Waves) by Samantha Lee

Nasaan si Utol? by Amira A. Hussin

Nazareno 2 by Jeyow Evangelista

Peace in Internet Café by Jefrey Ramos

Pinikpikan by Angelo Caparras

A Teacher: Proven & Tested by Juan Gabriel Lim

Tubig Kanlungan: Kadluan ng Yaman by Angelique Angeles, Grace Yann Apuad, Maria Francesca Lee

The Unwanted Visitor by Kriztine R. Viray

DOCUMENTARY Programme 5 (1 hr 57 mins)

25 Nov/Fri (10:00AM)

`Wag Nang Magparty Beybeh, May Revolution 2nyt (A rock documentary) by Emman Pascual

Waray in the City by Noriel M. Jarito

Working While in Class by Maevelyn Calapardo

SHORT FEATURE Programme 1 (2 hrs 02 mins)

22 Nov/Tue (10:00AM)

123 by Carlo G. Obispo

364 by Rolson Chester G. Ilao

3four by Anne Christabel de Leon

AbE by Charles Aaron Salazar

Agaw by Ronnie Sapinoso

Alibi by Perry Escaño

Apuhap by Geza Jayson, Paulle Olivenza

Awit ni Maria by Nica Santiago

Baby by Carl Joseph E. Papa

SHORT FEATURE Programme 2 (2 hrs 6 mins)

22 Nov/Tue (3:30PM)

Bago Magwakas by Epoy Deyto

Balasa by Naoki Mengua

Barbie by Federick Peradilla

BJ by Donnie T. Sacueza

Blackout by Don Henry Abe

Buhay Muna (Life First) by Alvaro Eduardo

Condom by Michael Castillo

Dadi by Ilsa Malsi

Dahil sa 'Yo by Gym Lumbera

Dear Doubt by Vanessa Balagapo, Daphne Oliveros, BJ Hernandez

Debut by Pamela Llanes Reyes

Pananahimik ng Agos by Ronnie Sapinoso

The Chase by Amiel Suarez, Simoun Mendoza, Kevin Gabon, Norman Co

SHORT FEATURE Programme 3 (2 hrs 7 mins)

22 Nov/Tue (9:30PM)

D Osom 2 by Candice Marie Perez

Denouement by Bryan Jeff Digma

Dilim by Kevin Francisco

Esbat by Carlo G. Obispo

Good por Hollywood by Inshallah P. Montero

Mitsa by Carlo Cielo

SHORT FEATURE Programme 4 (2 hrs 5 mins)

23 Nov/Wed (1:00PM)

Ang Mga Kamatayan ni Anna by Allan Ibañez Gunita by Monica Diaz

Hiling ng Kahapon by Marianne Estaris

I(NDI)E Mainstream by Mark Vincent Villa

In Between by Yuji Cleofas Nozaki

Inosensya by Mikhail Red

Pananahimik ng Agos by Ronnie Sapinoso

Winner Winner by Jaise Cappal

SHORT FEATURE Programme 5 (2 hrs 7 mins)

23 Nov/Wed (9:30PM)

A Love Story That Never Was I See Everything by Michael Jianoran

Katipunan by Caloy Limjap Soliongco

Kontra by Jane Torres

Kristal by Juan Carlo Bien, Jeoffrey Arcilla

Kubli by Ron Carlos See

Kupit by Ron Segismundo

Labing Dalawa by Gino M. Santos

Litrato, After Life, Dilim, Katok,Pulang Kwarto by Espiritu, Ochoa, Dagalea, Marfil, Alegre

Mirrored by Rap Ramirez

SHORT FEATURE Programme 6 (2 hrs 4 mins)

24 Nov/Thu (10:00AM) Ang Mahiwagang Tooot by Ian Hontanosas

Lumang Kahoy by Pam Miras

Macopa St. by Psyche Darlene R. Quejada

Man of the House by Chuck Hipol

Manenaya (Waiting) by Richard Soriano Legaspi

Milalaban by Kevin Lawrence Restua

Mithi by Jela Ramirez Oso by Ryan Canteras, Kim Potapo, Danielle Salvacion, Ted

Sumampong Sa Pagpalo ng Tambol by Patricia Angelica M. Perez

Sulapo (Fly) by Bor Ocampo

SHORT FEATURE Programme 7 (2 hrs 5 mins)

24 Nov/Thu (3:30PM)

Ang Payaso at ang Prinsesa by Kris Ann de la Peña

Overture by Perry Escaño

Panty by Timmy Harn Peklat by Marianne Joy Avilla, Pola Cheyenne Beronilla

Ricochet by Chad Angelic Cabigon Rindido by Noriel M. Jarito

Tikas by Ron Segismundo

SHORT FEATURE Programme 8 (2 hrs 4 mins)

24 Nov/Thu (9:30PM) Santa Sita by Golda Hanna Daquioag

Sarong Aldaw by Marianito Dio, Jr.

Sikreto by Ronald E. Batallones

Sintomas by Andrew Mark Asuncion

Sirip by Kim Camelo

Tulala by Jerald Paolo Rarugal

Weding Gawn by Ronnie Sapinoso

SHORT FEATURE Programme 9 (2 hrs 8 mins)

25 Nov/Fri (1:00PM)

Ang Umaatikabong Buhay ni Badong Aguirre by Josephine Carreon

Taho by Marie Frederick V. Bensan

Taking Chances by Renard Torres

Tama (Deranged) by Yutaka Yamakawa

Tanghaling Tapat by Mariano Paulino Umali

Viscera by Herwin Cabasal

ADMISSION IS FREE!

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

JAMES McAVOY IS VOICE OF SANTA CLAUS' SON IN “ARTHUR CHRISTMAS”


James McAvoy as Arthur
“Santa’s my dad!,” exclaims British actor James McAvoy who provides the voice to the title role of Arthur, Santa Claus' youngest son, in Sony Pictures Animation Studios' new, 3D family comedy “Arthur Christmas.” 

“Arthur believes in Christmas, and not just because he’s been born into the family business,” says McAvoy.  “He believes it in his soul – there’s nobody else in the world who cares about Christmas more than Arthur.”

“Arthur Christmas” at last reveals the incredible, never-before-seen answer to every child's question: “So how does Santa deliver all those presents in one night?” The answer: Santa's exhilarating, ultra-high-tech operation hidden beneath the North Pole. But at the heart of the film is a story with the ingredients of a Christmas classic – a family in a state of comic dysfunction and an unlikely hero: Santa’s youngest son, Arthur. When this amazing operation misses one child out of hundreds of millions, the least capable Claus embarks on a hilarious, exciting rogue mission against the clock to deliver the last present before Christmas morning dawns.
McAvoy lending his voice for Arthur

            Despite living in a world devoted year-round to the business of Christmas, Arthur LOVES everything to do with the season. He is especially passionate about what Santa – who he adores as both dad and figurehead – means to children, whose identities sometimes get lost in the huge logistics of the operation. Trouble is, in the ultra-efficient, high-tech delivery operation of Christmas, Santa’s youngest son is a spare part. Allergic to snow and suffering from a fear of heights, reindeer, and high-speed travel, Arthur isn’t exactly a natural Claus. The family loves him – but has never quite known what to do with him.  And although Arthur’s office in the Letters Department is a chaotic mess of snow globes and pictures of Santa, it’s a magical little corner where Arthur alone revels in the joy of it all.  

            “Arthur reads every single letter that comes to the North Pole, because he believes that every child deserves to receive a present at Christmastime,” says McAvoy.  “You know, he’s relegated to the mailroom, because he’s caused a lot of accidents at the North Pole, but it’s just perfect for him – he gets to read these letters about the importance and the essence of Christmas, every second of every day.”

            “Arthur cannot bear the idea of a kid waking up on Christmas morning and finding out that Santa didn’t come,” says co-screenwriter Sarah Smith.  “Arthur sees the world through that kid’s eyes – it would be the end of the world.”

            “Arthur is a fanboy and a workhorse for Christmas,” McAvoy continues.  “He wouldn’t want to do anything else – he lives for Christmas.  It’s exciting to play somebody that fulfilled because you get to keep increasing the energy, as the character tries to maintain that fulfillment.”
           
            “The movie is really funny and very clever,” McAvoy concludes.  “It’s ingenious, inventive, irreverent, different, and funny – I suppose that’s what drew all of us to do it.”

“Arthur Christmas” is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.  Visit www.sonypictures.com.ph to see the latest trailers, get free downloads and play free movie games.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

GET INTO THE CIRCLE OF LIFE OF “THE LION KING 3D”

Set against the breathtaking natural beauty, mysticism and diversity of the African landscape, captured and stylized by a team of top artistic talents, Disney’s 32nd full-length animated film “The Lion King” is a uniquely entertaining coming-of-age allegory based on an original story that has since joined the ranks of classic fairy tales and literary favorites. And now, the popular classic is in 3D for the first time ever.
            “‘The Lion King’ is essentially a love story between a father and son,” says producer Don Hahn. “It’s about that moment in life when you realize that your father is going to pass on to you his wisdom and knowledge. The Circle of Life. Someday we all become adults. The baton will be passed on to us and we’re going to have to grow up.”
            An original story, breathtaking animation, beloved characters and award-winning music set the stage for “The Lion King,” a Disney classic that follows the adventures of Simba, the feisty lion cub who “just can’t wait to be king.” But his envious Uncle Scar has plans for his own ascent to the throne, and he forces Simba’s exile from the kingdom. Alone and adrift, Simba soon joins the escapades of a hilarious meerkat named Timon and his warmhearted warthog pal, Pumbaa.
            Adopting their carefree lifestyle of “Hakuna Matata,” Simba ignores his real responsibilities until he realizes his destiny and returns to the Pride Lands to claim his place in the Circle of Life. The all-star vocal talents—including Matthew Broderick, Nathan Lane, Whoopi Goldberg, James Earl Jones, Jeremy Irons, Ernie Sabella, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Robert Guillaume, Cheech Marin and Moira Kelly—plus the rip-roaring comedy and uplifting messages of courage, loyalty and hope make this a timeless tale for all ages.
            According to co-director Roger Allers,  “The real heart and emotional underpinning of the whole story is the father-son relationship. At one point in the film, Simba steps into his father’s paw print and we see this image of his little paw in an enormous print. It is very symbolic. When his father is taken away from him too soon, he feels unworthy and inadequate. My favorite part of the film is when his father returns in ghost form and tells him that his spirit lives on in his son.”
            Co-director Rob Minkoff adds: “We set out to do something very different from the things that had been done before. ‘Aladdin,’ ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘The Little Mermaid’ were all basically love stories, and this one is more about the relationship between a father and a son. It is just as crucial and interesting in its own way, but a real different subject and a change of pace from other Disney films.”
            Recalls actor Nathan Lane, who provides the voice of Timon, “They showed us two clips from the movie and I thought to myself, ‘Well, not only is this good, there’s something very special about this.’ Obviously, there’s something in [the film] that touches people—it’s why it was hugely successful and why it stays with people. [The filmmakers] worked for a long time to get the story right and that’s why these films work and why they’re considered classics.”
            Matthew Broderick (voice of Simba) remembers the first time he saw the film with an audience. “There’s nothing like sitting with a real audience,” he says. “I thought, ‘Wow, these children will take their children [someday].’ I could tell I was part of ‘Snow White.’ It felt like we were part of those movies that seem to live years and years through generations.”
            Opening across the Philippines in December 2011, “The Lion King 3D” is distributed locally by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures International through Columbia Pictures.