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| (Image Source: JustWatch/GMA Network) |
GMA Network's “The Cheating Game" is now available worldwide on the popular streaming platform Netflix following its successful showing in local cinemas nationwide. The first big screen project of GMA Public Affairs top-billed by two of the Philippines’ highly talented artists Julie Anne San Jose and Rayver Cruz, “The Cheating Game” delves into the psyche of two individuals who react differently to betrayal after being cheated.
In “The Cheating Game", Hope (Julie) is an idealistic young professional who thinks she can change the world. She is devoted to her fiancé and the non-governmental organization (NGO) they’ve built together until a sex video of her boyfriend with another woman surfaces. Walking away from the engagement, the NGO and the life she thought was hers, Hope starts her new career as a content producer in a company. Unknown to her, this firm moonlights as a troll factory. She becomes determined never to be outsmarted by a guy again. She designs a ‘cheat sheet’ detailing the ‘anatomy of a cheater’ and uses this as her guide as she navigates the dating world again. She then meets Miguel (Rayver), a self-made businessman who exudes green flags for a partner. Hope thought she had found the perfect guy. But as they become closer, long-kept secrets begin to surface.
Critics commended the film as it depicts a more mature, relatable, and realistic side to modern-day dating. Acclaimed Filipino screenwriter Ricky Lee described “The Cheating Game” as not a usual rom-com. "I was expecting a typical rom-com, but it turned out to be so much more " The National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts said. “Hindi ko ini-expect ‘yung twist (I didn’t expect the twist),” he added. “The Cheating Game” is produced by GMA Public Affairs under GMA Pictures and is co-written and directed by best-selling author Rod Marmol. The film is based on the original concept and story by Peabody award-winning documentary writer and producer Shao Masula and co-written by Jessie Villabrille, a head writer for some of the distinguished GMA primetime series.
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PH's First Premium Bed Cinema To Open In Uptown Bonifacio
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| (Image Source: Manila Insight/Megaworld Cinemas) |
The Philippines’ first and most luxurious bed cinema is set to be unveiled at Uptown Bonifacio, Megaworld’s flagship township in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, this November. The Uptown Tempur Cinema is a new and innovative moviehouse made possible by a collaboration between Megaworld Cinemas, the country’s pioneer of class-leading Ultra Cinemas and Tempur, a leading global manufacturer of specialized beds, pillows and mattresses.
The brand new theater is designed to elevate the movie viewing experience like never before with topnotch seats and seating configuration comparable to a first-class airplane cabin allowing moviegoers to sit at ease or lie down comfortably on premium Tempur beds and mattresses while watching their favorite blockbusters on the big screen. Uptown Tempur Cinema packs 32 beds and is also equipped with Dolby Atmos for superior audio technology and immersive sound quality and experience. Tickets are priced at Php1,000 that includes popcorn, drinks, and a fleece blanket.
This new movie theater is the latest innovation to be introduced by Megaworld Cinemas which also pioneered the first Ultra Cinemas in the Philippines. Megaworld Cinemas is set to announce more innovations that are sure to delight movie lovers in the coming weeks. For more updates and information on Uptown Tempur Cinema, visit Megaworld Cinemas' official website at www.megaworldcinemas.com and @MegaworldCinemas on Facebook and Instagram.
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QCinema 2023 Unveils Restored Classics Section
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| QCinema 2023's Restored Classics section (Image Source: Wazzup.PH/QCinema International Film Festival) |
While being dedicated to screening the newest and most exciting films of the year, the QCinema International Film Festival also believes that there is room in the lineup for an appreciation of what has come before. So every year, the festival picks some of its favorite classic films, particularly ones that have recently gone under digital restoration, and makes them available for festival goers. This year features a double bill of Wong Kar-wai's mirror image masterpieces Chungking Express and Fallen Angels, a restored version of Robert Clouse's Enter The Dragon and the 1971 film A Clockwork Orange by one of cinema's true masters Stanley Kubrick which will be screened in beautiful 4K.
While Chungking Express plays out the loneliness of Hong Kong in the daylight, Fallen Angels works in the shadow of night, studying how that same loneliness and isolation can result in more violent ends. Originally designed to be one film, the two complement each other in creating a fuller picture of what Hong Kong was in the ‘90s. If loneliness and desperation aren’t the festival goer’s bag, there is also a very different product of Hong Kong and that would be legendary martial artist Bruce Lee. Enter The Dragon places Lee in the middle of a fighting tournament organized by a crime lord. The 1973 film is widely considered one of the most influential action films of all time, combining elements of the kung fu film, spy movies and the blaxploitation genre, creating a unique stew of very entertaining elements.
Finally, in one of his most controversial films based on the Anthony Burgess novel of the same name, Kubrick’s film questions the very definition of goodness in the societal sense as it follows Alex, a young hooligan who will undergo behavioral therapy at the behest of a nation that wants to control him and curb his impulses. A Clockwork Orange was nominated for four Academy Awards including best picture. The QCinema International Film Festival runs on November 17-26, 2023 in cinemas across Quezon City including Gateway Mall, Robinsons Magnolia, UP Town Center, Shangri-la Plaza and Power Plant Mall.
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Puregold Channel's My Plantito Now Accessible On YouTube (With English Subtitles) By Popular Demand
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| (Image Source: Business Mirror/Puregold Price Club Inc.) |
As Puregold Channel’s second Tiktok series "My Plantito" gains traction and widespread acclaim for its charming boy-love story and captivating narrative of Filipino families and friendships, the retailtainment pioneer makes the series available on YouTube with English subtitles. Starring Kych Minemoto as dreamer and vlogger Charlie and Michael Ver as his handsome plantito neighbor Miko, the digital series quickly became a hit among audiences nationwide with its 21 episodes amassing a total of 29.5 million views to date.
On its initial airing, the digital series became an instant fan-favorite, striking a perfect balance of kilig, kwela, and heartwarming moments not only between Charlie and Miko, but also between Charlie and his supportive father Janong (Chef Ghaello Salva) and between Charlie and his loyal best friend Bianca (Devi Descartin). Spurred by this positive development, Puregold is happy to announce that My Plantito may now be viewed on YouTube with English subtitles, making the series more accessible to fans worldwide. “We acknowledge how My Plantito has been warmly received by audiences, and we hear the clamor of the show’s fans for more accessibility. With My Plantito given English subtitles and made available on YouTube, Puregold Channel has simply affirmed its commitment to listen to its viewers’ requests. Now our international followers have the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful and unique love story," said Puregold Channel's Senior Marketing Manager Ivy Hayagan-Piegan.
In addition to its success in the retail industry, Puregold likewise shines in the realm of retailtainment with its portfolio of memorable digital series including GVBoys, Ang Babae sa Likod ng Face Mask, Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile, and 52 Weeks. Viewers can watch My Plantito with English subtitles on Puregold’s Official YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@PuregoldChannel. The YouTube cut of the series will run for a total of seven weeks, with the first episode airing last October 7th.
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Reverb Worship Songs Nominated At Catholic Mass Media Awards 2023
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| (Image Source: Christian Broadcasting Network Asia Inc.) |
Two inspirational songs from Reverb Worship PH, the music production and recording arm of Christian Broadcasting Network Asia Inc. (CBN Asia), earn back-to-back nominations at this year’s Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA). "Sa‘Yo Lang” by Jex de Castro and Joselle Feliciano has been named a finalist for Best Inspirational Song. Penned by the talented Lucas Miguel, this comforting composition released last December 2022 continues to remind listeners where to find real peace and love. “All we wanted to do was to hold a voice for those in grief, especially after the pandemic, when we’ve all lost so much. I wish that with this recognition, more people will get to listen to the song, find in it a safe space for their grief and disappointments, and ultimately point them to the bearer of lasting hope, joy, and comfort — Jesus Christ,” Joselle shared.
Meanwhile, “Pansumandali” has earned its place as a finalist for Best Music Video category. Directed by the visionary Timothy Yee, the music video perfectly encapsulates the message of the song written, composed, and performed by Shekinah Gram — God’s love is constant. The heart-tugging visuals were brought to life through the lens of its Director of Photography Play Layugan. Shekinah recalled, “It took a year before we produced the music video for Pansumandali. We faced rejections and tears, but God had a better plan. This CMMA nomination is such an encouragement. Glory to God that His ways are always better. Cheers to the Reverb Worship team and everyone who watched the MV!”
To CBN Asia’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John Valdes Tan, getting the nods from CMMA is a testament to the exceptional talent of the Reverb Worship team and an inspiration to create more songs that promote good values and honor God. “Our recent selection as finalists in CMMA makes me so proud of our Reverb Worship artists and songs. Aside from the wonderful messages of Reverb songs, the production value is at par with the country’s best and the yearly recognition of CMMA is a testament to that. CBN Asia is proud of the talents behind each song and music video. We praise God for these recognitions.”
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Young Stars Shine At SM Little Stars 2023 Grand Finals
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| SM Little Stars 2023 Top 5 On Front Row (L-R): 1st runner-up Eduardo Joson II (SM Megacenter Cabanatuan), Boy Grand Winner Aljon Christoff Banaira (SM City San Pablo), Girl Grand Winner Jourdanne Baldonido (SM City Dasmariñas), 3rd runner-up Joachim Gale Olpindo (SM Center Muntinlupa), 2nd runner-up Mara Hestia Caballero (SM City Cebu); Back row (L-R): National University Senior Director for Admissions Dr. Christina Corpuz, Goldilocks Bakeshop Head of Corporate Communications Ley Laksamana, Goldilocks Bakeshop Public Relations and Partnerships Associate Kyleth Paralejas, GMA Consulting Head for Talent Imaging and Marketing Lawrence Tan, SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin, Assistant Vice President Hanna Carinna Sy, SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan (Image Source: SM Supermalls) |
Representatives from SM City San Pablo and SM City Dasmarinas were hailed as boy and girl Grand Prize winners of the recently concluded SM Little Stars 2023 Grand Finals held at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on October 14, 2023. It was a night to remember for seven-year-olds Aljon Christoff Banaira and Jourdanne Baldonido who emerged as winners among the 28 grand finalists in the competition. It was a fierce battle of talent, confidence, and personality, with every participant showcasing their skills in dancing, singing, acting, declaiming, and playing instruments.
With over Php9M worth of prizes up for grabs, the two Grand Winners went home with a brand-new Suzuki S-presso Special Edition MT MC worth over Php600,000, a one-year talent contract at Sparkle GMA Artist Center, a full college scholarship at National University, and a five-day and four-night trip for two to Hong Kong. Additional prizes include a total of Php100,000 in cash and SM gift certificates (Php50,000 in cash and Php50,000 worth of SM gift certificates), Php30,000 worth of Toy Kingdom gift cards, an annual pass certificate for unlimited bowling and skating valid for one year, 30 regular ride tickets at SM by the Bay Amusement Park / Sky Ranch, and gift vouchers for a two-night stay with breakfast for two at Radisson Blu Cebu.
Completing the list of winners were SM Megacenter Cabanatuan’s Eduardo Joson II (1st runner-up), SM City Cebu’s Mara Hestia Caballero (2nd runner-up), SM Center Muntinlupa’s Joachim Gale Olpindo (3rd runner-up), SM City Clark’s Hayley Cairee Miclat (Top 6), SM City Masinag’s Jayson De Paz, Jr. (Top 7), SM City Bicutan’s Graciella Zahzih Flojo (Top 8), SM City Cebu’s Karlyle Miguel Corbeta (Top 9), and SM City Batangas’ Marrem Angel Martinez (Top 10). Now in its fourteenth year, the SM Little Stars is a celebration of young talent and a testament to the outstanding platform that SM provides for these budding stars. This year alone, the competition saw over 33,000 young individuals who shared their talents from 70 SM malls nationwide.
