Making A Christmas Carol a Filipino Christmas Tradition

Ushering in the holiday season, Globe Live is staging of Menken & Ahrens’ A Christmas Carol The Musical, its second theatrical offering for 2016. The musical is a co-production partnership between Globe Live and 9 Works Theatrical, fresh from American Idiot’s run, which received 10 citations from this year’s Gawad Buhay Awards. 

A Christmas Carol is a musical written by Tony Award nominee Mike Ockrent and Tony Award winner Lynn Ahrens, with lyrics by Ahrens and music by Alan Menken. It is based on the 1843 novella by Charles Dickens, and tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a bitter old man who brushes off the holiday season with the now-iconic phrase “Bah, humbug!”

"Transformers: The Last Knight" First Trailer Drops on Dec 16

Director Michael Bay has announced that the first trailer for Paramount Pictures' Transformers: The Last Knight, will premiere in theaters on December 16 in front of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

Bay took to social media to respond to fans’ questions about when they could expect the first good look at the fifth Transformers film. Watch his reply at https://youtu.be/0pZvtmkwCjg.

Selene Must Make the Ultimate Sacrifice in "Underworld: Blood Wars"

An immensely gifted English actress who has proven to be one of the industry’s most versatile and charismatic performers, Kate Beckinsale returns in the fifth installment of the fan favorite sci-fi fantasy, Underworld: Blood Wars, where she reprises her role as the iconic action hero Selene.

Underworld: Blood Wars follows the next generation of Vampires and Lycans (a breed of Werewolves) and the war that continues to wage between the two species. In the film, Vampire Death Dealer Selene fends off brutal attacks from both the Lycan clan and the Vampire faction that has betrayed her. Aided by her only allies, David (Theo James) and his father Thomas (Charles Dance), she must end the eternal war between Lycans and Vampires, even if it means making the ultimate sacrifice.

Nicole Scherzinger Provides Voice of Moana's Mother, Sina

Best known as the lead singer of one of the best-selling girl groups of all-time Pussycat Dolls, Nicole Scherzinger now breathes life to Moana’s playful and strong-willed mother, Sina, in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 56th animated feature “Moana.”

Also featuring the voices of Dwayne Johnson and Auli'i Cravalho, “Moana” is a sweeping, CG-animated feature film about an adventurous teenager who sails out on a daring mission to save her people.

Moana’s mother always has her back. Playful, sharp and strong-willed, Sina appreciates Moana’s longing to be on the water. But much like Tui, her hard-headed husband, Sina wants to protect her daughter from the fabled dangers beyond the reef. Above all, Sina trusts Moana to make the right decisions.

‘Tis the season to be selfie-ready

Price drop for selected OPPO smartphones until January and chance to win an OPPO F1s

Nothing beats a smartphone as a Christmas present to let loved ones feel that they are special, but the cost is not exactly affordable. Thankfully, mobile technology brand OPPO is offering a selection of smartphones at prices within budget.

“OPPO smartphones have shown that premium quality doesn’t have to come at a high price. This holiday season, we are offering shoppers a treat by making some of our best units available at discounted prices.” said OPPO Philippines Brand Marketing Manager Stephen Cheng. “Our phones will definitely make for great gifts that will capture your most precious holiday moments.”

Whether for selfies or group shots with family, the following OPPO phones are sure to capture the holiday festivities in photos worth sharing.

The Dew Tour Rides In Manila - Skateboarders' Showdown Set At Circuit Makati

Amateur Filipino skateboarders will have an adrenaline-charged showdown at Circuit Makati and try to win a trip to the Dew Tour USA, one of the biggest and most-awaited events for skaters around the world.

The face-off at Circuit Makati, called the Dew Tour Am Series, brings the winners of three grassroots events called bootcamps that took place in Laguna, Cebu, and Davao. Though the Dew Tour Am Series is happening for the second time in the Philippines, this year marks the first time that Mountain Dew® hosted the bootcamps for skaters outside Metro Manila.

“We had a great time when we held the Dew Tour Am Series for the first time in the Philippines last year but we wanted more skateboarders to display their talent and tricks. That’s why we held the bootcamps ahead of the Dew Tour AM Series,” said PepsiCo Flavors Category Manager.

Five reasons men prefer real leather as Christmas gifts

Let’s face it: one of the simplest yet crucial dilemmas during the Christmas season is thinking of the perfect gift ideas for the men in our lives—your dad, brother boyfriend, husband, boss, close friends and officemates.

To ease the stress of figuring out the perfect gift for the men in your life, let McJim Classic Leather do the thinking for you. Because when it comes to gifts for men, real leather has always been a tried-and-tested contender. Here’s why.

* Giving McJim Classic Leather bags, belts, wallets and accessories show sincerity and thoughtfulness. Men are known to neglect buying these items even when their bags, wallets and belts have become old and faded. So, there is no doubt that they will appreciate receiving these McJim Classic Leather products—known for premium quality and style.

Globe iPhone 7 customers helped create a Global Filipino School in GenSan

Thousands of Globe Telecom customers who availed of the new iPhone 7 contributed significantly in the creation of a Global Fiipino School (GFS) in General Santos City which allows teachers and students to access 21st century learning within and beyond the classroom.

With iPhone 7 and Globe myLifestyle Plan, customers were not only able to get the phone of their dreams but also had the opportunity to give back to various communities through the Globe of Good bundle. 

Promoting Good Dental Habits to Children for “Hapee” and Healthy Teeth

Some parents think it is not important to instill good oral habits among children because milk teeth are eventually replaced by permanent teeth.

Contrary to this common perception, however, lack of dental hygiene has negative consequences for young children who are susceptible to developing cavities just as adults are. The milk they drink and the food they eat can cause acid attacks, resulting in dental caries and tooth decay.

For this reason, it is important to promote good oral care habits among youngsters at an early stage. Proper dental hygiene results in strong teeth for your little ones, and also initiates long-term good oral health for them.

With this in mind, Hapee Kiddie Anti-Cavity Toothpaste generously shares tips that foster proper oral care habits for your kids at home:

Meet Semira & Marius: The Villains of "Underworld: Blood Wars"

In Columbia Pictures' Underworld: Blood Wars, the fifth installment of the fan favorite sci-fi fantasy, Vampire Death Dealer Selene (Kate Beckinsale) is forced to tangle with colorful new adversaries including Semira, an ambitious member of Eastern Coven’s Elite Council; and Marius, new leader of the Lycans, the eternal enemy of the vampires.

British actress Lara Pulver portrays Semira as a master manipulator obsessed with Selene — and the power her blood possesses.

“Semira’s a total chameleon,” Pulver says. “Depending on who she’s dealing with, she’s able to transform herself and manipulate situations to her advantage.” To make her character even more menacing, Pulver trained intensively for the film’s sword fight sequences and performed many of her own stunts.

Pencils to Write Children’s Future

For most people, the pencil is a mere writing or drawing implement. Placed in the hands of impoverished school children, it becomes a tool to sketch the future.

Thanks to the Council for the Welfare of Children, PNP, Department of Education (DepEd), SM Cares, AMSPEC, more underprivileged public elementary school students will each get their own pencils for their use in school. Going beyond the initial target of raising one million pencils from donors, the nationwide campaign collected over 3M pencils in time for the celebration of the 24th National Children’s Month.

"Passengers" Unveils Countdown-Themed `Living' Poster

Columbia Pictures has just released the “living poster” of its upcoming futuristic thriller “Passengers” which may be seen at https://youtu.be/n7pfsXYb9qM.

Check out too the teaser one-sheet of the film below.

From the director of the Oscar Best Picture nominee “The Imitation Game” and the screenwriter of “Prometheus” comes Columbia Pictures' action-adventure “Passengers” starring Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt.

Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt are two passengers onboard a spaceship transporting them to a new life on another planet. The trip takes a deadly turn when their hibernation pods mysteriously wake them 90 years before they reach their destination. As Jim (Pratt) and Aurora (Lawrence) try to unravel the mystery behind the malfunction, they begin to fall for each other, unable to deny their intense attraction... only to be threatened by the imminent collapse of the ship and the discovery of the truth behind why they woke up.

Stars Align to Create Moving Soundtrack for "Moana"

With film credits like “The Little Mermaid” and “Aladdin” under their belts, filmmakers John Musker and Ron Clements clearly enjoy telling stories with music. Their lates film, Walt Disney Animation Studios' “Moana” is no exception.

The diverse and dynamic team behind the film’s inspired music includes Tony®-, Emmy®- and Grammy®-winning lyricist/composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, who counts among his credits Broadway’s Pulitzer Prize-winning and multiple Tony-winning “Hamilton” and the Tony-winning “In the Heights.”

Bon AppeTea Opens New Branch With The Launch Of Its Christmas Drinks Selection and 2017 Year Planner!

Bon AppeTea, the Philippines’ fastest-growing milk tea café franchise, held the grand opening of its 35th branch on this day at The Lanai at Kasa Luntian in Tagaytay, Cavite.

The ribbon cutting ceremony brought together key executives from Bonappetea’s mother company, Goldenjoy Franchising, Inc.’s Chief Operating Officer Mr. Antenor “Tenny” Taguba, Chief Financial Officer Mr. Francis Chung, and Chief Executive Officer Ms. Marjorie Reyes. Also gracing the grand opening were esteemed guests starting with Hon. Vice Mayor Raymond A. Ambion of the Tagaytay city mayor’s office, King Labarda of Alveo Land, and members of the media and blogger community. Guests who were fans of GMA-7’s “Encantadia” were given an extra treat as Kapuso actor Rocco Nacino, who plays Aquil in the highly rated telefantasya, joined the opening.

Spotlight on "Fantastic Beasts" Scene-Stealer, Dan Fogler

Critics have singled him out as the “heart” of “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” for his moving and adorable portrayal of Jacob, who is the only one in the four-man principal cast without magical powers. Ironically, this may be the very reason that has endeared American actor Dan Fogler to audiences: his effortless relatability.

“At his core, Jacob is just a simple palooka who just happens into this magical situation, something he’s clearly not used to,” Fogler says of his character. “He’s a baker who has been trying to open his own bakery because he loves making people happy with his cooking. He may not be able to perform magic, but he can make a little pastry that’ll knock your socks off. I felt like I knew the character well because my great-grandfather was a baker, who was known for the best pumpernickel in New York, so it’s in my blood.”

"Office Christmas Party" -- It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

In Office Christmas Party, when the CEO (Jennifer Aniston) tries to close her hard-partying brother’s branch, he (T.J. Miller) and his Chief Technical Officer (Jason Bateman) must rally their co-workers and host an epic office Christmas party in an effort to impress a potential client and close a sale that will save their jobs.

The latest comedy from directors Josh Gordon and Will Speck (Blades of Glory) co-stars Kate McKinnon, Olivia Munn, Jillian Bell, Rob Corddry, Vanessa Bayer, Randall Park, Sam Richardson, Jamie Chung, and Courtney B. Vance in the funniest movie of the holiday season.
Once upon a time, the office Christmas party was a highly anticipated tradition, an epic night of drinking and festivities that blurred the line between co-worker and friend, employer and employee.

Since the fallout from the night’s unbridled events frequently lead to countless hangovers, lawsuits, and weeks of awkward apologies, overzealous HR departments spent decades reigning in the wild and raucous office Christmas ragers until the once legendary celebrations evolved into the staid, polite and family friendly affairs we know today as “Holiday” Parties.



“The office Christmas party is really a throwback to a less civilized time. It’s like the dire wolf skeleton you see at the La Brea Tar Pits,” says Producer Scott Stuber. “The “Holiday” party today is like a house-broken pug… it’s not going to hurt anyone, and it plays well with children, but somewhere, deep down it still has that dire wolf DNA.”

“An office Christmas party isn’t a religious celebration,” argues T. J. Miller, who plays Zenotek’s Chicago Branch President Clay Vanstone. “It’s a celebration of letting go and not being afraid to tell your boss what you really think without getting fired.”

Directors Will Speck and Josh Gordon were immediately drawn to the concept of a magical night where professional and social barriers were less defined. “There’s a universal wish fulfillment in having one night of the year where people live honestly, perhaps with some help from drugs and alcohol,” says Speck.

“The office Christmas party really breaks down the caste system,” says Gordon. “Suddenly everyone from the top of the food chain to the bottom is equalized and that makes for a great comedic jumping off point.”

The initial idea for the film came after a family member told Producer Guymon Casady about a decadent corporate Christmas party she had recently attended. “As she was regaling us with just the scale and the fun of it all, it occurred to me that a party like that would be the basis for a great, R-rated comedy,” says Casady. “There’s a vicarious thrill to witness that kind of chaos contained in a movie. It can go completely off the rails but you don’t have to worry about the consequences or having to clean up in the morning.”

Despite the more fantastical elements of the story, the filmmakers approached the story in a grounded way.

“We wanted to see a team of people at its most dysfunctional,” Casady explains. “Then see how barriers break, alliances shift and people connect over the course of a night. The key was keeping the fun of a no-holds-barred Christmas celebration front and center while telling these interwoven stories of the various people in the office.”

“The party is the star of the film,” says Speck, “but that makes our characters that much more important. They have to be realistic, relatable people you’d want to spend a crazy night with. Parties aren’t any fun when you don’t know anybody.”

“We wanted each character to start with their feet on the ground,” says Gordon. “So as things get more and more ridiculous, you’re invested and along for the ride.”

Opening across the Philippines on Dec. 07, Office Christmas Party is distributed by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.

"Cars 3" Teaser Trailer Warns Everything Will Change

The unexpectedly dark teaser trailer of Disney/Pixar's Cars 3 is off to the races, arriving with a cryptic tagline, “From this moment on, everything will change.”

Check out the trailer at https://youtu.be/E4K7JgPJ8-s and watch Cars 3 when it opens in the Philippines in 2017.

Swing Back Into Disco Fever With Ballet Philippines In “AWITIN MO AT ISASAYAW KO” This December 2-11

From December 2 to 11 at the CCP Main Theater, celebrate the holidays with “Awitin Mo At Isasayaw Ko”, Ballet Philippines’ new dance musical featuring the songs of popular Filipino disco group, VST & Co. The show is an exciting collaboration with ABS-CBN and the ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Gerard Salonga.

“Awitin Mo At Isasayaw Ko” tells the story of the forbidden love between Teresa, a high-class kolehiyala and Victor, a construction worker. They are brought together and torn apart amidst the backdrop of the Philippines in the late ‘70s – brimming with disco fever but within the confines of Martial Law.

The show features Filipino disco favorites such as “Rock Baby Rock”, “Magsayawan”, and “Ipagpatawad Mo”, along with Bert de Leon’s “Hindi Ko Akalain, Roger Rigor’s “Ikaw ang Aking Pasko”, and Celso Llarina & Roger Rigor’s “Puwede Ba?”, all woven together by a libretto by Bibeth Orteza and transformed into dance by choreographers Carissa Adea, James Laforteza, and PJ Rebullida. It will be directed by BP artistic director Paul Alexander Morales.

Taking the lead roles of Victor and Teresa are two of Ballet Philippines’ legendary principal dancers: Nonoy Froilan and Edna Vida Froilan. Their younger selves will be portrayed by Jean Marc Cordero, Rita Angela Winder, Denise Parungao, and Garry Corpuz.

Joining them are two casts of singers culled from the ABS-CBN talent pool and distinguished actors from the Philippine theater scene. The gala cast from ABS-CBN is comprised of Michael Pangilinan, Karylle, Markki Stroem, and Kyle Echarri. They will be alternating with Sandino Martin, Cooky Chua, Jef Flores, and Noel Comia.

“This has been a rather fortuitous undertaking,” shares Morales. “Jed Balsamo had the idea to do a show with the music of VST and Co., then ABS-CBN approached us to do a project together... We’re very lucky that all of these pieces came together so easily.”

A Filipino disco group prominent in the late 1970s, VST & Co. is one of the pioneering groups of the music genre known as the Manila Sound. The group is composed of Vic Sotto, Spanky Rigor, Tito Sotto, Val Sotto, Celso Llavina, Monet Gaskell, Male Rigor, Roger Rigor, Jun Medina, Joey de Leon, Homer Flores, Chito Ilagan, Ben Escasa, Fred Concepcion, Boy Alcaide, and Clod Baria. Their impressive collection of hits has left a legacy that endures to this day.

“Awitin Mo At Isasayaw Ko” will be staged at the CCP Main Theater (Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo) from December 2 to 11, 2016. Ticket prices range from Php 500 to Php 3500, with discounts for students, senior citizens, and government employees.

Connect to Ballet Philippines online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/balletphilippines

Twitter: @balletph

Instagram: @balletphilippines

YouTube: balletph

To join in the Ballet Philippines conversation, use our official hashtags: #balletph, #awitinmoatisasayawko

On-Demand Entertainment and Up-to-date Devices Now made available with Globe Broadband Plans

Not too long ago, everyone’s concept of entertainment was cast in black and white. We used to wait for our favorite shows to air on TV, anticipate current hits on the radio, or even patiently wait in line for tickets to blockbuster movies. With the rising trend of on-demand entertainment sweeping this generation, the power to choose the most enjoyable content relevant to us, when we want it, is finally within our grasp.

With Globe Broadband’s revolutionary plans, access to your favorite TV shows, movies, music, and games make the future of entertainment an omnipresent possibility. With the creation of strong, steadfast connections made available by Globe Broadband, making one’s home the ultimate hub for groundbreaking entertainment now becomes possible.

Demigod Maui Finds Voice, Strength in Dwayne Johnson for "Moana"

Maui is a demigod—half god, half mortal, all awesome. Charismatic and funny, he wields a magical fishhook that allows him to shapeshift into all kinds of animals and pull up islands from the sea. He lassoed the sun to give humans longer days and harnessed the breeze for their benefit.

Filmmakers called on superstar Dwayne Johnson to provide the voice of Maui in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 56th animated feature “Moana,” the sweeping, CG-animated film about a spirited teenager who sails out on a daring mission to prove herself a master wayfinder and fulfill her ancestors’ unfinished quest.

“He’s very connected to his Samoan roots,” says director Ron Clements. “Maui is a charismatic character and Dwayne is nothing if not charismatic. He has great comedic timing, nails the action scenes and is so likable. And he can sing.”

Opening at No.1, "Fantastic Beasts" Finds P126.42-M I Just 4 Days

Magical creatures, new heroes to root for and a jaw-dropping big reveal lured audiences back  to a new era of magic.

The wizarding world of Harry Potter triumphantly returned to Philippine cinemas as Warner Bros.’ “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” opened at No.1 with a spellbinding P126.42-million in only four days for the Nov. 17-20 frame.  This was announced today by Francis Soliven, General Manager of Warner Bros. Philippines.

The Harry Potter spinoff posted the Biggest November Opening Weekend for a Warner Bros. Film All-Time surpassing             2005’s “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’s” P105-million bow. 

Theo James Back as the Vampire David in "Underworld: Blood Wars"

British hunk Theo James (the “Divergent” franchise) returns as Vampire David in Columbia Pictures' “Underworld: Blood Wars,” the latest installment in the blockbuster franchise.

The character David was introduced in “Underworld: Awakening” in which he has been searching for Vampire death dealer Selene (Katen Beckinsale), whose reputation has inspired him to want to fight back against human aggression.

In “Underworld: Blood Wars,” David and his father Thomas (Charles Dance) are Selene's only remaining allies as she fends off brutal attacks from both the Lycan clan and the Vampire faction that betrayed her.

RTL CBS Entertainment Brings Ivy Grace Paredes To Perform At Asian Television Awards

Outstanding Filipino Contestant On The X Factor UK To Showcase Vocal Prowess That Wowed Judges On The Largest Talent Competition In The World

RTL CBS Entertainment, the regional broadcaster for the 21st Asian Television Awards, has confirmed the participation of Ivy Grace Paredes, the Filipino singer who impressed the judges on the current season of The X Factor UK. The 33-year-old songster known for her powerful vocals will take the stage at this year’s Asian Television Awards to shine as she did on the largest talent competition in the world.

Experience the power of the #OO: Huawei wraps up the year with exhibit featuring best photos captured with P9 dual lens technology

Global tech giant Huawei culminates a groundbreaking year with The Power of #OO: Huawei P9 Photography Exhibit.

The gallery features the most captivating photos by some of the most renowned cultural vanguards such as Karl Ivan Presentacion, Kara Chung, and Camille Co with the revolutionary dual lens technology of their Huawei P9 and P9 Plus. The exhibit was open to the public at Greenbelt 3 Park, Makati from November 25 to 27.

MERALCO To Host The World's Biggest Power And Energy Industry Event In 2020

Meralco was recently selected to lead the Philippine hosting of the biggest gathering of the global power and energy industry leaders- the Conference of Electric Power Supply Industry (CEPSI) - in 2020. Meralco’s training and educational foundation, the Meralco Power Academy (MPA), will drive and maximize the learning opportunities of CEPSI 2020 by promoting and disseminating knowledge on the various topics and technologies of innovation in power and energy.

The selection was made in Bangkok, Thailand during the recent Executive and Council Meeting of the most prestigious electric power related organization in East Asia and the Western Pacific- the Association of Electricity Supply Industry of East Asia and the Western Pacific (AESIEAP). 

The Fairytale Comes to Life in New "Beauty and the Beast" Trailer

Nostalgia, wonder and a tale as old as time create a powerful combination in the newly released full trailer of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” starring Emma Watson, Dan Stevens and Luke Evans, under the direction of Bill Condon.

Check out the trailer at http://youtu.be/OvW_L8sTu5E and watch the film when it opens in the Philippines on March 15, 2017.

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” is a live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic which refashions the classic characters from the tale as old as time for a contemporary audience, staying true to the original music while updating the score with several new songs.

New "Kong: Skull Island" Trailer Unleashes Rip-Roaring Adventure

Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures have just released the official final trailer for “Kong: Skull Island” which may be viewed at https://youtu.be/C9GbY9gRslg.

“Kong: Skull Island” reimagines the origin of the mythic Kong in a compelling, original adventure from director Jordan Vogt-Roberts (“The Kings of Summer”).

In the film, a diverse team of explorers is brought together to venture deep into an uncharted island in the Pacific – as beautiful as it is treacherous – unaware that they’re crossing into the domain of the mythic Kong.

“Kong: Skull Island” stars Tom Hiddleston (“The Avengers,” “Thor: The Dark World”), Samuel L. Jackson (“The Hateful Eight,” “Avengers: Age of Ultron”), Oscar winner Brie Larson (“Room,” “Trainwreck”), John Goodman (“Transformers: Age of Extinction,” “Argo”) and John C. Reilly (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Step Brothers”). The international ensemble cast also includes Tian Jing (“Police Story: Lockdown”), Corey Hawkins (“Straight Outta Compton”), Jason Mitchell (“Straight Outta Compton”), John Ortiz (“Steve Jobs”), Thomas Mann (“Beautiful Creatures”), Shea Whigham (“The Wolf of Wall Street”), Toby Kebbell (“Dawn of the Planet of the Apes”) and Eugene Cordero (“The Kings of Summer”).

Marion Cotillard in a Deadly Game of Treacherous Love in "Allied"

One of today’s most honored French actresses, Marion Cotillard riveted filmgoers in the role of legendary torch singer Edith Piaf in La Vie En Rose, winning the Academy Award® for Best Actress. Following a Golden Globe nominated role in the musical Nine, the blockbuster The Dark Knight Rises, she recently received another Best Actress Oscar® nomination in Two Days and One Night.

The Mob Will Not Be Threatened in the New "Live by Night" Trailer

The final trailer for Ben Affleck's new crime thriller “Live by Night” has just been released by Warner Bros. Pictures and may be viewed at https://youtu.be/R47EN1WSKd0.

Oscar winner Ben Affleck (“Argo”) directed and stars in the dramatic crime thriller “Live by Night.” Affleck also wrote the screenplay, based on the award-winning best-seller by Dennis Lehane; it marks the second collaboration for the fellow Boston natives, following the acclaimed drama “Gone Baby Gone.”

More Stars Get Own Banners for "Office Christmas Party"

Jason Bateman leads the new batch of Office Christmas Party castmembers to get their own character banners which Paramount Pictures has just released.

Check out the new banners of Olivia Munn, Jamie Chung and Abby Lee below and watch the movie when it opens in the Philippines on Dec. 07.

In Office Christmas Party, when the CEO (Jennifer Aniston) tries to close her hard-partying brother’s branch, he (T.J. Miller) and his Chief Technical Officer (Jason Bateman) must rally their co-workers and host an epic office Christmas party in an effort to impress a potential client and close a sale that will save their jobs.

The latest comedy from directors Josh Gordon and Will Speck (Blades of Glory) co-stars Kate McKinnon, Olivia Munn, Jillian Bell, Rob Corddry, Vanessa Bayer, Randall Park, Sam Richardson, Jamie Chung, and Courtney B. Vance in the funniest movie of the holiday season.
Office Christmas Party is distributed by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.

REEL DEAL: Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them REVIEW



Since Harry Potter Series ended, Potterheads wanted more. But 2016 was a gracious year for the fans of the magical world, first with the launch of Harry Potter and The Cursed Child which continues the legacy of Harry Potter as in published and performed playwright. And before that, it was announced that another great story, Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them featuring Newt Scamander will be made into a movie.

This takes place in the 1920s United States with a young wizard from Hogwarts went on a intercontinental journey with his thirst for adventure and magical creatures. And this time, there would be more beasts that will reveal itself to the world.

Unlike the Harry Potter series, the story brings the world of the wizards, and the No-Majs (Muggles or non-magical humans) into a Venn Diagram predicament.  A pretty complicated start for a new series that takes the American feel and culture.

There is so much to be revealed soon, for now we indulge on the magic and adventures of Newt, Jacob, Tina and Queenie and a scary new villain Gellert Grindelwald which will be the "new" voldemort for this series.

Wands, Witches, Creatures, Politics, New York City, Industries and a lot more elements created the perfect potion for this sure box office treat. Though the 1920s is not the popular page of history especially to the Americans, the film brings a new light into the decade after the first world war and heading into the next one. And the magic community at that time was also in great crisis.

How do marriages die? A step-by-step look at the way relationships crumble

To open his epic novel that explored infidelity, Leo Tolstoy wrote, “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.”

The opening words of Anna Karenina may have gone down in history as one of literature’s most unforgettable lines, but a closer look at crumbling marriages and romantic relationships show that the roots of their breakdown have more similarities than most people realize.

Doomed relationships are often attributed to different causes, such as lack of intimacy, unresolved differences, or financial issues. In each case, an analysis by American professor Mark Knapp identifies five stages that reveal how relationships deteriorate following a common pattern.

Adams, Renner Face the Unknown in Their "Arrival" Posters

Columbia Pictures has launched the character posters of lead castmembers Amy Adams and Jeremy Renner for its upcoming thriller Arrival. The individual one-sheets of Adams and Renner show close-ups of their faces while clad in space suits.

Arrival is a provocative science fiction thriller from acclaimed director Denis Villeneuve (Sicario, Prisoners). When mysterious spacecraft touch down across the globe, an elite team - lead by expert linguist Louise Banks (Adams) - are brought together to investigate. As mankind teeters on the verge of global war, Banks and the team race against time for answers – and to find them, she will take a chance that could threaten her life, and quite possibly humanity.

“Casting [ARRIVAL} was the easiest thing in my career,” says Villeneuve, “because everybody fell in love with the screenplay. Amy Adams was the actress I was dreaming of for this part because I knew that the audience would believe in this movie if the actress believed in it—everything is happening through her eyes.”

Execration and Mineski DOTA Team To Represent The Philippines in the ROG Masters 2016 International Stage

Support our local heroes from Mineski and Execration as they battle against the world’s finest DOTA2 players in the ROG Masters 2016 international stage

Republic Of Gamers (ROG) being the world’s undisputed gaming laptop brand remains true to its core by empowering professional gamers and enthusiasts worldwide through ROG Masters eSports event. Exclusive created to Asia and Oceania, the tournament is devoted to finding the undiscovered talent from across the region and giving those players the recognition their skills deserve. It is for the competitive up and comers. It is for the skillful and the ambitious. It is for every gamer.

Oscar-Winner Robert Zemeckis Takes the Helm for "Allied"

From Oscar® winner Robert Zemeckis, the innovative director behind Forrest Gump, Cast Away and Flight, comes Allied, at once a mesmerizing espionage thriller, sweeping war drama and passionate romance between two assassins who may be fated soulmates or deadly enemies – or both.

In a sumptuous, visually evocative production that roams from Casablanca to London’s Blitz days to German-occupied France, Zemeckis creates the kind of grand tale that flourished in Golden Hollywood – full of mystery, thrills and romantic heat – yet told with all the richly immersive power of 21st Century cinema.

Janella's Music Video of "Moana" Song "How Far I'll Go"

Walt Disney Studios Southeast Asia has chosen fast-rising, multi-talented star Janella Salvador to sing and appear in the music video of “How Far I'll Go,” the lead song from Walt Disney Animation Studios' 56th animated feature “Moana.”

The music video of Janella Salvador's cover version will be launched on Friday, November 18 simultaneously in Disney Channel and Disney Philippines's social media accounts. (A teaser may be viewed at http://youtu.be/cVsILwD-umM.)

Maroon 5 Performs Their Hit Single "Don't Wanna Know" Featuring Kendrik Lamat At 2016 American Music Awards

Pop music superstars Maroon 5 will be joined by platinum-selling artist Kendrick Lamar to perform their hit single, “Don’t Wanna Know” finale at the “2016 American Music Awards.”  They join hosts Gigi Hadid and Jay Pharoah, as well as previously announced performers including James Bay, Fifth Harmony, Lady Gaga, Green Day, John Legend, Bruno Mars, Shawn Mendes, Twenty One Pilots, The Weeknd, special duets from The Chainsmokers and Halsey, and Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj, and “The American Music Award of Merit” honoree and performer Sting.  The “2016 American Music Awards,” the world’s biggest fan-voted award show, will broadcast live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Monday, November 21 at 9:00am (8am JKT/BKK), first and exclusive on RTL CBS Entertainment.

Gigi Hadid & Jay Pharoah to Host the “2016 American Music Awards”

LIVE on November 21, Monday 9am (8am JKT/BKK) on RTL CBS Entertainment

Supermodel Gigi Hadid and actor/comedian Jay Pharoah will co-host the “2016 American Music Awards.” These hosts join previously announced performers including James Bay, Fifth Harmony, Lady Gaga, Green Day, John Legend, Bruno Mars, Shawn Mendes, Twenty One Pilots, The Weeknd, special duets from The Chainsmokers and Halsey, and Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj, and “The American Music Award of Merit” honoree and performer Sting. The “2016 American Music Awards,” the world’s biggest fan-voted award show, will broadcast live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Monday, November 21 at 9:00am (8am JKT/BKK) with primetime encore at 9:55pm (8:55pm JKT/BKK) first and exclusive on RTL CBS Entertainment.

Forest Whitaker in Consecutive Sci-Fi Adventures "Arrival," "Rogue One"

Oscar Best Actor winner Forest Whitaker casts a giant shadow in the science-fiction genre as he stars in back-to-back sci-fi thrillers in December: Columbia Pictures' Arrival and Lucasfilm's Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

In Arrival, when a mysterious spacecraft touches down across the globe, an elite team - lead by expert linguist Louise Banks (Amy Adams) - are brought together to investigate. As mankind teeters on the verge of global war, Banks and the team race against time for answers – and to find them, she will take a chance that could threaten her life, and quite possibly humanity.

"Office Christmas Party" Sends Out Character Posters

You're invited! Paramount Pictures has just unveiled three new character posters for its upcoming holiday comedy, Office Christmas Party. The one-sheets highlight castmembers Jennifer Aniston, T.J. Miller, Kate McKinnon and Rob Corddry.

Check out the posters below and watch the movie when it opens in the Philippines on Dec. 07.

In Office Christmas Party, when the CEO (Jennifer Aniston) tries to close her hard-partying brother’s branch, he (T.J. Miller) and his Chief Technical Officer (Jason Bateman) must rally their co-workers and host an epic office Christmas party in an effort to impress a potential client and close a sale that will save their jobs.

The latest comedy from directors Josh Gordon and Will Speck (Blades of Glory) co-stars Kate McKinnon, Olivia Munn, Jillian Bell, Rob Corddry, Vanessa Bayer, Randall Park, Sam Richardson, Jamie Chung, and Courtney B. Vance in the funniest movie of the holiday season.

Office Christmas Party is distributed by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.

Bosch brings sought-after innovations to PhilConstruct 2016

Dremel Ambassador Kenny Ansis (right) displays
some of his woodworking crafts in the 2016 PhilConstruct Expo
German industrial and technology solutions provider Bosch showcased its extensive portfolio of innovative products for construction and security systems in the recently concluded PhilConstruct

2016 held at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Pasay City. Power tools from Bosch Professional and Dremel, as well as Video Surveillance systems, Fire Alarm & Evacuation systems, Public Address and Conference systems were on spotlight in the country’s biggest construction convention that gathers industry professionals, construction dealers and global brands.

"Blood Wars" Gets First Woman Director for "Underworld" Franchise

To bring Columbia Pictures' epic action thriller Underworld: Blood Wars to the big screen – the latest instalment in the blockbuster franchise -- the producers turned to their first-ever female director, Anna Foerster.

Besides directing several episodes of the hit TV show Outlander, Foerster has also served as the second unit director on the sci-fi films Alien: Resurrection, The Day After Tomorrow and Æon Flux among others. Underworld: Blood Wars is her feature debut.

Globe pre-registration for Coldplay concert tickets closed in 6 minutes

Globe Telecom thanks its customers for their phenomenal reception of the Coldplay concert happening on April 4, 2017 at the SM MOA Concert Grounds.  Exclusive Coldplay tickets allotted for Globe customers for pre-registration was closed within 6 minutes, a record-breaking feat for the mobile operator known for bringing to the Philippines top international artists from all over the world.

This pre-registration qualifies Globe customers to reserve a maximum of 2 tickets on a first come first serve basis by just sending GLOBECOLDPLAY to 2363. They will be able to purchase and claim during the pre-sale on November 20, 2016, four days before the tickets officially go on sale.

Globe assures customers that they can continue to purchase tickets starting November 24, 2016 at any SM Ticket outlet.  After bringing Madonna's Rebel Heart Tour concert earlier this year, Globe creates more wonderful experiences for its customers by co-presenting the Coldplay concert for the first time in the Philippines with MMI Live.

A Hero is Reborn in Payoff Trailer of "Underworld: Blood Wars"

Underworld lead character Selene must undergo a transformation if she wants to save her kind in the payoff trailer of Columbia Pictures' “Underworld: Blood Wars,” the latest installment in the blockbuster franchise.  

Check out the trailer here at https://youtu.be/8j43WCOevJw and watch the action-thriller when it opens nationwide on November 30, 2016.

Directed by Anna Foerster, “Underworld: Blood Wars” stars Kate Beckinsale, Theo James (the “Divergent” franchise) and Charles Dance (“Game of Thrones”).

“Underworld: Blood Wars” follows Vampire death dealer, Selene (Beckinsale) as she fends off brutal attacks from both the Lycan clan and the Vampire faction that betrayed her. With her only allies, David (James) and his father Thomas (Dance), she must stop the eternal war between Lycans and Vampires, even if it means she has to make the ultimate sacrifice.

New "Beauty and the Beast" Poster Spotlights Iconic Dance Scene

The new teaser poster for Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” has arrived, revealing Belle and the cursed Prince waltzing in the dark.  Check out the poster below and watch the film when it opens in the Philippines on March 15, 2017.

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” is a live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic which refashions the classic characters from the tale as old as time for a contemporary audience, staying true to the original music while updating the score with several new songs. 

“Beauty and the Beast” is the fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart and soul of the true Prince within. 

ICYMI: Parokya Ni Edgar performed at the HONOR X9b 5G Bagsakan Concert!

HONOR Philippines just threw the very first HONOR X9b 5G Bagsakan and it was a success!  Parokya Ni Edgar performed at the HONOR X9b 5G Bags...