Kwento Ni Toto: Entertainment

Showing posts with label Entertainment. Show all posts

Saturday, February 17, 2024

Denise Julia & DENȲ debut sultry R&B jam 'don't matter'

Toto 10:31:00 PM

Two rising stars in the Filipino R&B scene, Denise Julia and DENȲ, have joined forces to release their latest single, "don't matter," under Sony Music Entertainment.

This collaboration marks the first time the two artists have worked together on a music project. Denise Julia revealed in a recent Instagram post that the idea of collaborating had been brewing for three years, back when they were both aspiring musicians trying to break into the industry.

The track, produced by J. Greg, Duaneinsane, and Denise Julia, and co-written by Denise Julia and DENȲ, features a smooth, soulful groove over which the two artists trade verses effortlessly.

With "don't matter," Denise Julia and DENȲ showcase their talent and chemistry, delivering a sultry and laid-back jam that is sure to resonate with fans of R&B music.

With Denise Julia’s powerhouse vocals blending perfectly with DENȲ’s sensual coos in the most exciting way possible, the song transforms into a charming, sing-along bop that’s centered on empowerment, freedom, and self-love—three virtues that triumph over the prospect of everything going wrong in a leap of faith.

The arrival of “don’t matter” comes off the heels of the duo’s recent accomplishments for their music releases: Denise Julia becoming the most streamed Filipino female artist for several months, thanks to the enormous success of her 2023 EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 1), and DENȲ reaching more than a million monthly listeners on Spotify on the strength of her acclaimed crossover album, LOVES7AGE.

A week ago, Denise Julia dropped the music video of her new single “Sugar n’ Spice.” Helmed by award-winning filmmaker Samantha Lee, the visuals depict sweet sapphic moments that a lot of adolescent queer women can relate to, regardless of category and experience. To date, the music video has racked up nearly four hundred thousand views on YouTube in less than a week, and has peaked within the top 10 of the video sharing platform’s ‘Trending for Music’ charts.

DENY on the other hand, has wrapped up 2023 with a record-breaking milestone. Her new album, LOVES7AGE was a hit among fans and critics and even yielded memorable hits such as “Alam Ko Na,” a collaboration with Just Hush and Third Flo’, and the Arthur Nery-featured “Sabik.”

Both OPM darlings have set their personal bests on creative and commercial terms while maintaining their individuality in an overly saturated and hyper-competitive musical landscape.

Denise Julia and DENȲ’s “don’t matter” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Friday, February 9, 2024

Music

Bitter Sweet Love: James Arthur's 5th Studio Release

Toto 1:34:00 PM

In his latest record, James showcases his musical prowess with tracks like ‘A Year Ago’, ‘Blindside’, and ‘Just Us’, among others. The album, titled Bitter Sweet Love, presents thirteen pieces of top-notch music, marking James's return to peak form.

The singles from the album have been gaining traction on radio waves for months. James recently made appearances on popular TV shows like Sunday Brunch and Michael McIntyre’s Big Show on BBC 1. Additionally, he delighted fans with acoustic sets during in-store performances across the UK.

James embarked on a journey to find the right producers for his album. After trying out various collaborators, he found his match in Steve Solomon, known for their successful collaboration on the 2016 hit ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’. Steve joined James in L.A. for the final touches, and later, they completed the album at Miloco Studios in South London. The result is a mature and deep collection of songs, showcasing James's exceptional songwriting skills.

2024 will also see a major world tour, in which multiple dates including UK arenas, sold out instantly, including London’s Wembley Arena, with The O2 now added. This was then followed by the announcement of a massive homecoming show at Middlesborough’s Riverside Stadium on Saturday 8th June 2024. This will be James’ biggest headline show to date and will see him joined by special guests McFly and Lauran Hibberd.

James is one of the world’s biggest streaming artists, with over 38 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone. James has scored 4 top 10 albums, with 2016’s Back From The Edge hitting the Number 1 spot and over his career has collaborated with the likes of Anne-Marie, Sigala, Rudimental, Marshmello & many more.

‘Say You Won't Let Go’ became his breakthrough hit in the US. It was officially the UK's most streamed song in 2016 and has gone on to be enjoyed via 4 billion streams while the song's official video has achieved 1.5 billion views on YouTube. Earlier this year, the track became his first RIAA Diamond Single with 10 million certified units – making James one of just 100 recipients of an RIAA Diamond Single certification in the programme's history.

Other huge hit singles include: ‘Impossible’, ‘Can I Be Him’, ‘Sun Comes Up’, ‘Naked’, ‘Empty Space’, ‘Rewrite The Stars’, ‘Falling Like the Stars’, ‘Train Wreck’ and ‘Lasting Lover’, which are all certified platinum records. The song ‘Cars Outside’ off the new album is currently becoming another global hit for James.

James Arthur’s fifth studio album, ‘Bitter Sweet Love’ is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment/Columbia Records.

Thursday, February 8, 2024

Valentines

CFDC's Nutrition Concert at The Manila Hotel

Toto 1:05:00 PM

Valentine's Day, a cherished celebration for many, brings with it the allure of romance. Each February, singers and balladeers take the stage, serenading audiences with love songs to ignite passion. However, with this romantic feels, a unique concert will be staged, one that transcends love to advocate for Filipino children. Here are the details.

Teaming up with The Manila Hotel, the Children’s First One Thousand Days Coalition (CFDC) is hosting a dinner concert. The aim? To generate funds for non-governmental organizations dedicated to combating malnutrition among Filipino infants during their critical early years, from conception to their second birthday.

Dubbed "The Greatest Love of All," this pre-Valentine concert is set for Feb. 9, 2024, at 6 pm, taking place at The Manila Hotel's Tent City. The lineup features prominent figures such as former Press Secretary Atty. Mike Toledo, former Executive Secretary Atty. Salvador Medialdea, and The Manila Hotel President and former Senator Joey Lina.

Joining them on stage will be a talented ensemble including Beverly Salviejo, Nina Campos, Jenny Sugay, Rachelle Rule, Rachel Verns, Pam Esquivel, Bobby Alvarez, Egay Rubiano, Jeffrey Panado, Egay Banaag, and the Adeodatus Children’s Choir (Baseco) accompanied by the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra. Steering the musical direction is Rodel Colmenar, while George Sison-Tagle and Paul Dizon oversee the concert's overall direction.

CFDC member organizations include Rotary International, Lions Club International, Kiwanis International, Junior Chamber International, The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines, The Fraternal Order of Eagles - Philippine Eagles, Knights of Columbus, Knights of Rizal, Save the Children Philippines, World Vision Philippines, Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals, Philippine League of Government and Private Midwives, Crusade Against Violence, and many more.

In tandem with government, the CFDC was formed to confront a serious problem troubling the Philippines: malnutrition during a child’s First One Thousand Days of Life – a very critical period when the impact of poor nutrition can be profound, long-lasting, even irreversible.

Thus, The Greatest Love of All is not merely an entertainment spectacle but a collaborative initiative to generate funds for the nutrition program of NGOs in the barangays. The CFDC welcomes everyone to participate in this meaningful cause, helping make the nutrition efforts a success and contributing to the goal of fostering “smarter, stronger, taller” Filipinos.

For more information on tickets and sponsorships, please contact John Gacutan at 09620668526 or +632 85270011 extension 1006.

Sunday, February 4, 2024

updates

Join KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad in Exclusive Hong Kong Tour Adventure!

Toto 12:53:00 PM

In the bustling city of Hong Kong, renowned film director Cathy Garcia-Sampana recently premiered the short film "Toss Coin," featuring emerging talents KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad. The film takes the audience on an enchanting adventure through the lively streets of Hong Kong, where love stories often find their captivating backdrop.

"Toss Coin" narrates the tale of Kiko (KD) and Pia (Alexa), whose unexpected encounter originates from a simple coin toss. As the duo embarks on a journey across the vibrant city, a heartwarming romance unfolds, exploring themes of destiny, belief, and the courage to seize unforeseen opportunities.

While the two lead characters were busy playing hide and seek with fate, the film showcased a variety of fun and fresh attractions every traveler should experience when visiting Asia’s World City. Check out some of the locations featured in Toss Coin below.

1.Stroll alongside the vibrant murals in Sai Kung

In almost every frame of the short film, viewers will find scenic backdrops highlighting Hong Kong’s rich natural landscapes, remarkable architecture, and colorful murals. These elements attracted Director Cathy Garcia-Sampana greatly, resulting in several key scenes (including the opening) being shot in the beautiful district of Sai Kung. “When I first came over here, I fell in love with the place. Their artworks are so beautiful, and we’re going to feature all of them,” she shared.

Also featured in the film is the Sai Kung branch of popular Hong Kong-based coffee chain The Coffee Academics. The building is covered in murals and is a visual treat for visitors to enjoy as they sip their coffee. The IG-worthy cafe is definitely a go-to for coffee lovers looking to take aesthetic photos.

Just a 30-minute drive from the bustling city center, Sai Kung offers travelers a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. With beautiful murals everywhere you look and a picturesque view of Hong Kong’s landscape, sit back with a hot coffee and lose yourself in the beautiful district where nature and art intersect.

2.Explore the modern and traditional at the HKMoA and Opera Gallery

Established in 1962, the Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA) is the first public art museum in the city. With over 18,800 curated pieces from all over the world, the HKMoA brings together traditional and contemporary pieces that highlight the unique culture and thriving arts scene of the city.

As seen in the film, the museum is also beautifully situated by the famous Victoria Harbour, and the ever-iconic Hong Kong skyline. This choice was intentional by the Toss Coin team, Alexa shares “Every place that we’ve been to has been really beautiful, so we want to showcase the beautiful places to the audience.”

After a day of touring the diverse exhibits at the museum, check out Hollywood Road at Central for more galleries like the Opera Gallery featured in the film. The Opera Gallery is home to works by emerging and internationally renowned artists and sculptors and is sure to be a treat for art lovers on their visit.

3.Spend a day at M+ and the West Kowloon Cultural District

v M+ located in the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) is one of the largest museums of modern and contemporary visual culture in the world. A work of art in itself, the museum stands among other iconic landmarks overlooking Victoria Harbour, with an LED display integrated into the building’s facade to display works of art.

KD mentioned how M+ is his favorite out of all the filming locations visited, “Hong Kong is super fun, going around the different locations. I love M+. It’s so nice there. It’s a place full of inspiration, and it’s really encouraging for us.”

While the film features only a glimpse of the museum, it's important to note that M+ houses thousands of works on display – representing 777 artists from over 35 countries. A trip to M+ and the newly developed WKCD would require almost a whole day dedicated to exploring its various exhibits and attractions, so make sure to set aside some time on your next visit to fully immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s engaging culture.

4.Showcase your creativity with the local artisans at PMQ

PMQ, previously the Hollywood Road Police Married Quarters, is a revitalized historical site that houses a variety of design and creative enterprises right at the heart of Hong Kong. This unique space is a go-to for art aficionados and artists alike and also serves as a hub for design and creative innovation.

As shown in the film, PMQ is often the location for interactive events and installations, enjoyed by visitors of all ages. On top of these events, visitors can also sign up and attend workshops by local artisans, covering a range of mediums from crocheting to jewelry-making. A hand-made souvenir will definitely make your trip to Hong Kong a memorable one.

5.Shop till you drop around Causeway Bay

What initially looks like any other street crossing in this final Toss Coin scene is actually the ever-iconic Causeway Bay. A popular spot among locals and tourists, Causeway Bay is the place to check out if you’re looking to shop till you drop.

From street markets and food stalls on one end, to luxury boutiques and upscale restaurants on the other, this bustling neighborhood will get you energized and buzzing to explore all it has to offer.

Like KD and Alexa, fall in love with the vibrant and dynamic streets of Hong Kong through a tour of these iconic attractions. With Hong Kong’s Arts Month and Art Basel coming up, add these locations to your itinerary for your next visit and experience first-hand the charm and diverse wonders Hong Kong has to offer.

Go on your own journey around Hong Kong and see where destiny takes you. Get inspired by Toss Coin and rewatch the short film on Viu or on ABS-CBN Star Cinema’s official Youtube channel and get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film. You may also visit discoverhongkong.com for other itineraries and for the latest events and activities happening in Arts in Hong Kong 2024.

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

updates

Pops Fernandez Marks 40 Years in Showbiz with "Always Loved" Concert

Toto 10:59:00 PM

Pops Fernandez is set to commemorate her 40th year in the entertainment industry with a two-night concert entitled "Always Loved" at the Theatre at Solaire in Paranaque City on February 9 and 10, 2024. It's a chance for fans to join in the celebration of her four-decade-long career.

In a recent statement, Pops shared her thoughts on reaching this incredible milestone, saying, "I actually did not expect myself to be in the business this long. I usually say 10 years is okay, but here we are, I lasted this long. There are so many things that happened to me, my life and career."

The concert promises a blend of nostalgia and contemporary beats, featuring special guests who have played significant roles in Pops' illustrious music career. While she's keeping the guest list under wraps, she did spill the beans about the involvement of Martin Nievera and Gary Valenciano, who have been pivotal figures in her singing journey.

Reflecting on her solo performances, Pops mentioned, "I didn't enjoy it all til I got separated. It was easy for me to perform with Martin because he was there, now I realized I had to perform on my own."

Despite the challenges, Pops found her groove, and the "Always Loved" concert promises to be a testament to her enduring passion for music and performance. She shares, "For the concert, I will do a new fast song, something current, and you'll also see me perform 'Get it Poppin!', a song that may get appreciated by the new generation."

For those itching to witness this extraordinary celebration, grab your tickets from the Ticketworld website or Solaire. It's your chance to see why Pops Fernandez remains the revered Concert Queen in 2024.

Pops encapsulates the essence of the concert, saying, "At the end of the day, gusto ko nag-e-enjoy lang yung audience ko. Ito yung two nights na pagpasok mo, let’s just have fun. Bawal mag-isip. Para kang nanood ng pelikula for one and half or two hours. Mag-e-enjoy kayo. Makaka-relate kayo sa mga kakantahin ko." So, what are you waiting for? Secure your seats and get ready to be part of this musical celebration!

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

updates

E. Canlas, TONEEJAY to headline SCRUBB: Live Manila

Toto 8:59:00 PM

In a dynamic collaboration, the accomplished actor-rapper, Elijah Canlas, and the chart-topping singer-songwriter, TONEEJAY, are set to grace the stage at SCRUBB: Live in Manila on February 10, 2024. The event is scheduled to take place at the 123 Block in Mandaluyong City, commencing at 6 p.m.

Elijah, recognized by his mononym, is an award-winning actor celebrated for his roles in critically acclaimed films and TV series, including the widely successful Senior High. Beyond his notable acting achievements, Elijah is venturing into the realm of music as a burgeoning hip-hop artist, with his latest track "kilala kita" gaining viral traction in recent times.

TONEEJAY is a fast-rising solo artist who used to be the lead singer of Munimuni, one of the most prominent folk-pop bands in the Philippines. His new single “711” has reached No. 1 on the Spotify Philippines Top 50 for several weeks and continues to gain viral traction from various streaming and social media platforms.

Both award-winning artists will be performing as guest acts to the Thai duo’s highly anticipated set, which will feature songs off the official soundtrack of 2gether: The Series, which stars global BL icons Vachirawit Chivaaree (Bright) and Metawin Opas-iamkajorn (Win).

Aside from the OST, Scrubb is set to entertain Filipino fans with new and old materials spanning six studio albums that they’ve produced throughout the course of their career. To date, Scrubb has graced several sold-out shows in Bangkok and key cities across Asia. The internationally renowned music act is composed of Thawatpon Wongboonsiri and Torpong Chantabubpha.

Tickets to SCRUBB: Live in Manila are now available for fans to purchase: bit.ly/scrubbmnl.

According to event organizer GNN (formerly known as Gabi Na Naman Productions), fans can buy tickets at Ticketmelon for the following tiers: SVIP tickets at PHP 5,200, VIP tickets at PHP 3,200, and Gen Admission tickets at PHP 1,800. Both SVIP and VIP packages have fan benefit inclusions with varying perks.

SCRUBB: Live in Manila is presented and produced by GNN, in partnership with KATINKO and 123 Block.

updates

PABLO of SB19 Breaks Ground in 2024 with the genre-blurring single 'DETERMINADO

Toto 8:48:00 PM

Filipino artist PABLO, a member of SB19, has returned with a captivating new single, "DETERMINADO," marking his first release of the year under Sony Music Entertainment. Produced by his brother Josue, the track blends hip-hop and rock genres, showcasing PABLO's commitment to pushing musical boundaries while maintaining his unique artistic identity.

PABLO commended his brother for contributing groundbreaking ideas during the track's development, emphasizing their collaborative approach and mutual inspiration. The singer-songwriter highlighted their seamless connection, attributing it to growing up in the same environment. The duo's teamwork is evident in the distinctive style that sets them apart from trends.

"Determined" incorporates dense instrumentation, gloomy synths, and powerful beats, revealing a different facet of SB19's vocalist and main rapper. PABLO expressed the track as a realization of facing fears and obstacles while moving forward with courage. The song reflects moments of vulnerability and strength amid chaos.

In a bid to embark on a new phase in his career, PABLO confidently explores a sonic space untouched by his contemporaries. He stated, "Our music is not just the output; it’s a collective of all the micro-things that happen behind the scenes and all throughout the process." Assertive and forward-looking, PABLO's departure from previous releases is evident in the fusion of hip-hop and rock genres.

Beyond "DETERMINADO," PABLO has exciting plans for 2024, anticipating more solo releases alongside his contributions to SB19. A debut album is also on the horizon, showcasing the artist's determination to further expand his musical portfolio.

As PABLO puts it, "Again, going back to the song title, we are indeed on this journey. I have so many things planned to do in 2024, and definitely one of those is to release my own album." PABLO's "DETERMINADO" is now available on all digital music platforms worldwide through Sony Music Entertainment.

Saturday, December 30, 2023

updates

Brilliant Awards 2023 Shines The Brightest of All Time

Toto 9:36:00 AM

Traffic was already bad but witnessing the milestone of one of the already known brand in the country and its CEO, is just an event not to miss before year 2023 ends. Sick or not, the show must go on.

Brilliant Skin Inc., a top beauty and cosmetic brand, concluded the year with a grand celebration at the Brilliant Awards 2023: Brightest of All Time on December 21 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Franchisees and distributors from various regions donned dazzling pink gowns for the event. The pink carpet was graced by TikTok comedienne and content creator, Queen Dura, marking one of Brilliant Skin Essentials' major events this year.

The event was opened by A-Team, 4th Impact and Brilliant Skin Ambassador, Andrea Brilliantes, who performed dance numbers followed by an opening speech by Brilliant Skin CEO, Ms. Glenda Dela Cruz. She expressed her gratitude to all her Brilliants – a term she coined for supporters, franchisees and distributors who came even on a short notice. She recalled the success of Pinakamakinang: The Brilliant Concert 2023, the launch of TikTok Live Philippines in Malaysia- Making her the first Filipina Ambassador of TikTok Shop Philippines. The program commenced introducing Luis Manzano and Mariel Rodriguez as hosts for the evening.

The first set of awards were introduced by Daniel Matsunaga namely: Live Streamer Award, Digital Market Place Trailblazer, E-Commerce Excellence Award, Rising Star in Outstanding Achievement, Exceptional Leadership in Network Growth and Team Player Extraordinaire. Awardees are from the different districts, cities, provincial and regional distributors

Kean Cipriano rocked the night with his band followed by the first raffle draw with giveaways of 5,000 cash for10 winners Lenovo Chromebooks for another 10 winners and 5 winners of iPhone SEs.

Also in attendance is Ms. Korina Sanchez, who spoke about Ms. Glenda Dela Cruz’s humble beginnings to what has become one of the country’s trusted beauty brands. She also shared how they became partners even before the pandemic and how she admired the generosity, openness, and diligence of Ms. Glenda in growing her business along with her partners who believes in Brilliant Skin Essentials.

Juan Karlos performed his hits Buwan and Ere, much to the delight of the audience, followed by awards for the Top Sales Achievers from all over the country. Jackie Gonzaga heats up the night with her sensual dance performance followed by live song and dance numbers from Kyle Echarri. Jason Dy and Paulo Avelino also serenaded the Brilliants that night.

The night’s highlight is the awarding of Top Regional Franchisees by Ms. Glenda Dela Cruz with the new face of Brilliant Skin Essentials, Alden Richards. This was followed by the introduction of Ms. Shen Garcia as the Chief Operating Officer of Brilliant Skin Essentials. The surprise kept coming with the grand raffle draw giving away not one but two winners each of P50,000, iPhone 15 Pro Macs, Yamaha NMax mototrcycles and one grand winner of an MG AJV Car

The night ended with a performance from Asia’s Soul Supreme, KZ Tandingan.

This is indeed the most brilliant and shining awards ending 2023. Congratulations to all the winners and more power to Brilliant Skin Essentials!

Thursday, December 21, 2023

updates

Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera: A Heartfelt Reunion on the Big Screen

Toto 11:01:00 PM

Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera, known as DongYan, are back together in a new film. While we often see this celebrity couple in their daily lives, watching them collaborate on-screen adds a unique touch.

Following their previous movie, "You To Me are Everything," the couple returns with a Christmas treat – a film that will warm your heart and make every moment worth cherishing.

Penned by Enrico Santos, the movie is a family-oriented story that everyone can relate to. Santos emphasizes that the narrative is tailor-made for Dingdong and Marian, aiming to showcase their chemistry.

The trailer reveals emotionally charged scenes, ensuring that if you remain unmoved after watching, you might be as tough as stone.

Set to hit cinemas nationwide this Christmas as part of the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), "Rewind" follows John (Dingdong), attempting to reconcile with his family after a tragic accident claims his wife's life.

With unexpected assistance from Pepe Herrera's character, Lods, John gets a chance to rebuild his life and repair relationships. However, this opportunity comes with a hefty price tag.

Dingdong and Marian express their joy and gratitude for being part of Star Cinema's official MMFF entry, co-produced with APT Entertainment and Agosto Dos Pictures.

Dingdong shares, "From the first day we read the script, we were thrilled to bring it to life. We feel fortunate to be chosen for the MMFF. I guarantee that viewers, whether part of a family or a group of friends, will relate."

Marian adds, "It's a proud moment for me to fulfill a dream of making a film. I always look forward to working with Dong, and to this day, I still love being onscreen with him."

Director Mae Cruz Alviar and writer Enrico Santos commend Dingdong and Marian for their poignant performances, highlighting that their roles perfectly suit DongYan and will bring tears to the audience.

Mae shares, "Having DongYan portray John and Mary is a significant factor. The genuine love they feel translates into the material."

Enrico emphasizes, "We've been dreaming of a DongYan movie for the longest time. We wrote this for them. When the material is such a perfect fit, why wait? Dingdong and Marian were the unanimous decision."

The film boasts a stellar cast, including Sue Ramirez, Joross Gamboa, Lito Pimentel, Ina Feleo, Ariel Ureta, Pamu Pomerada, Mary Joy Apostol, Via Antonio, Chamyto Aguedan, and Coney Reyes.

Don't miss "Rewind" in the upcoming MMFF 2023, showing in cinemas nationwide from December 25. For film updates, follow ABS-CBN Films on social media platforms.

For more news, follow @abscbnpr on social media or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

Monday, December 11, 2023

updates

Unspoken Letters Delves into Neurodiversity with Lead Star Jhassy Busran

Toto 9:45:00 PM

Movies are a potent way to tell stories and advocacies, influencing not only individual lives but entire communities. The upcoming film, "Unspoken Letters," takes a fresh approach by sharing a unique story that mirrors the experiences of individuals facing similar situations. This family drama provides Jhassy Busran with a platform to deliver an outstanding performance, unraveling a touching narrative that connects with viewers and brings attention to the hurdles confronted by those with intellectual disorders.

In this heartfelt movie, Busran steps into the shoes of Felipa, a seventeen-year-old living a life with the cognitive abilities of a seven-year-old. The film gracefully weaves through a family's journey, tackling neurodiversity, a father's illness, and the disclosure of long-hidden family truths.

The brilliance of the film "Unspoken Letters" lies in its capacity to share a complex subject accessible and understandable. With this, Felipa in the film becomes the lens through which viewers witness the everyday struggles and triumphs of neurodiverse individuals. The film succeeds not only as entertainment but also as a powerful medium for fostering understanding and empathy.

In an interview, Busran shared, "The character I portray, Felipa, is a special child. What we want to convey to the audience, especially those who share similarities with Felipa, is that your circumstances should not be a hindrance."

The movie's narrative beautifully unfolds Felipa's dreams, aspirations, and her admiration for her older siblings. It skillfully navigates the challenges faced by families dealing with neurodiverse members, presenting a story that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. It's as almost real as it is.

To prepare for her role, Busran engaged in mental preparation and extensive online research, ensuring an authentic portrayal. Her dedication to breaking stereotypes and promoting empowerment shines through in every scene.

"Unspoken Letters" marks Busran's third cinematic venture, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her notable performances in previous films and accolades at film festivals, including the Manhattan Film Festival New York 2021, attest to her rising star in the industry.

Beyond the silver screen, Busran's influence extends to television with appearances in "Roommate," "Bubble Gang," and "Imbestigador." Upcoming projects like "Genius Teens – Season One" and "Tropa Peeps" further showcase her growing presence.

"Unspoken Letters" is not just a movie; it's a conversation starter. The film's premiere on December 13 is not to be missed, promising an emotional and enlightening experience. It invites audiences to step into Felipa's world, fostering a greater understanding of neurodiversity and leaving a lasting impact.

Friday, December 8, 2023

updates

From Fear to Horror to MMFF: Discovering the Secret of Mallari

Toto 12:15:00 AM

“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” This famous quote from the writer-philosopher George Santayana is a fitting introduction to my story about this year's Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry from Mentorque Productions. What makes it even more interesting is that this film creates history in both the MMFF and the Philippine film industry. In essence, this film is a historical journey in every aspect of its MMFF entry.

The MMFF has become a part of Filipino culture during the yuletide season, offering a unique way for Filipinos to celebrate Christmas day—by enjoying the festival of Filipino films.

For those who are avid fans of the MMFF, it's noticeable that horror or suspense films have always been a staple in the film selections. There's something about horror films that Filipinos seem to enjoy watching during the Christmas season.

In 2023, Mentorque Productions presents a one-of-a-kind horror film titled 'Mallari,' inspired by the true story of Fr. Mallari, a parish priest in the 1800s who committed a shocking crime, killing 57 people. He was believed to be the first Filipino serial killer and, notably, the first Filipino priest to be executed.

Mallari Makes History

Mentorque Productions has indeed made history with its MMFF 2023 film entry, 'Mallari.' It marks the first Filipino movie distributed by Warner Brothers Pictures. To create a buzz about the film, Mentorque, in cooperation with Cleverminds Incorporated, organized the biggest and grandest media and fan conference last December 1 at The Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City. This event served as the kick-off for a month-long journey leading up to the December 25 release of MMFF 2023.

'Mallari' features the Philippines' ultimate heartthrob, Piolo Pascual, portraying Fr. Juan Severino Mallari, the first Filipino priest executed by the Spanish colonial government. Alongside Piolo, the movie boasts a talented cast that adds depth and intrigue to the story.

The media conference saw the presence of key figures, including John Bryan Diamante, President of Mentorque Productions; the main cast - Piolo Pascual, Janella Salvador, JC Santos, Gloria Diaz, and Ron Angeles; director - Roderick Cabrido; and writer - Enrico Santos.

Mallari: Partly Fiction and Partly True-to-Life

According to Director Roderick Cabrido and Writer Enrico Santos, 'Mallari' is a gripping blend of fiction and a true-to-life account inspired by the shocking story of Fr. Mallari. The film revolves around a Parish Priest in the 1800s who committed a heinous crime, becoming the first and only recorded Filipino serial killer, predating Jack The Ripper by more than 60 years.

Santos shared their experience of gathering recorded data about Fr. Mallari. Due to the scarcity of information, they even reached out to Madrid for additional details. As a result, the story was crafted to be partly fictional but set in a Filipino context.

Mallari Piques Warner Brothers Picture's Interest

Crafted and developed in 2018, this outstanding story and its production excellence caught the attention of Warner Brothers Pictures, leading to it being the film's distributor. 'Mallari' takes pride in its high-quality production and a team of exceptional caliber, promising to be the scariest movie this Christmas season during the MMFF 2023 run in cinemas nationwide.

Under the direction of Derick Cabrido, the film was shot in various historic locations in the Philippines, including a village built specifically for the project to recreate an authentic setting. Notably, it incorporates three timelines, blending retro horror with the immediate relatability of current terrors.

Mallari: A Film to Watch This December 25

With numerous entries in the 2023 MMFF, it will be interesting to watch them all. However, if there's a "first movie to watch," it undoubtedly should be 'Mallari.' If the trailer entices you, catching it on the big screen this coming December 25 would be a great choice.

For more information and updates, visit its Facebook page at facebook.com/mentorque and Instagram at @mentorqueproductions.