Regal Entertainment's scary movie offering "UNTOLD" was just given an advanced screening and scream party at the SM City North Edsa's THE BLOCK. It was witnessed by Regal Entertainment head honchos Keith Monteverde and Roselle Monteverde. While Jodi Sta. Maria is out of the country filming an international project, actresses Sarah Edwards and Kaori Oinuma attended the screening to say hi to lucky students, fans and media covering the event.
Jodi plays Vivian Vera, a reporter/anchor for a TV station. The film was easy to absorb at first, but it is a psycho thriller, full of jump scares and g0re. It was also very claustrophobic because much of the entities come from different directions. This is also about PTSD, mental health, and family.
Keith and Roselle Monteverde, Regal Entertainment Inc. is personally working on this film
This seems like a huge experiment for Jodi, and the film is full of things that would make you question realities. You get scared for a while then end up being in a flashback, or immerse in a supposed alter reality then see it being true. You also won't be able to invest too much on characters because one minute they're goody two shoes, the next day they're going to the underworld. Her involvement with all of them is consistent though, which again, made this story line cerebral, it makes you think and question every time what is true, what is happening now, and what's not.
The entertainment value certainly is enough for a Jodi Sta Maria film, and if you doubt her capability to scare, I've seen several people in my row screaming at times. Much of the content is psychologically heavy, and you'll feel the struggle on why the characters are doing what they are doing, even after the "afterlife". The narrative is stressful, so make sure you are ready for this horror film because by any standards, Jodi did justice with hear character. You'll also love some not so serious things that JK brings, which gives relief despite the heavy plot.
Director Derrick Cabrido may have had a field day doing this with an actress that is capable of playing complex personalities. She did phenomenal, and the script certainly has been researched well. If you are practicing witchcraft (not that I'm insinuating you are), you'll also be seeing a lot of clues why we say that. This is another layer that you should discover when you watch it on theaters on April 30.
If you want a really good thriller and scare this month, you should take your family and friends to the cinemas and watch THE CARETAKERS.
This is a film masterfully crafted for the silver screen by Director Shugo Praico. After watching it in SM North Edsa - The Block last night, I would agree with the R13 rating because for starters, it's pretty intense, has quite a few twists as expected, and would require a more mature audience because of scenes apt for that age. I'd reckon comparing it with Regal Entertainment's Shake Rattle and Roll series but with a fresher, grander pov, but still does those scare and revenge plots quite good.
It also gives a lot of importance to musical scoring, something this film has definitely done remarkably well because the surprises in the story would require that, and make you feel a bit invested with Iza Calzado and Dimples Romana's characters. Which reminds me, this certainly screams masterclass because 2 of the most formidable actresses in the country are doing these interesting characters. It's like 2 geniuses working on one project, and to do something extreme like this would show their range, unquestionable, done like pros. The cinematography is also something to be lauded. It felt like a Hollywood film inside the cinemas. The color grading is amazing and you can feel how they took time editing this film to make sure you're seeing something good in theaters.
Ms. Iza says "This is horror of course, but in hindsight, it's a story of mothers who would want to fight for their rights in owning the lot. Horror was used as a tool to tell that story. Though this has a huge back story, of the one who owns the lot on paper, or the ones that took care of the property for years. Are they really after the home, or are they just making sure the next generations would still see it. Working with her, it was super easy. Our co stars, the production, it was light and easy on set because I love learning from people. As a mother, as a business woman, I admire her on so many levels because she's smart. On set, you won't have to think about it, our energy levels are the same, I can depend on her and that makes part of the work done. She's not there to overshadow other artists, it was a very good dance. Production was also A+, we were spoiled and made everything easy. We even had coffee, fruits, food handy. I've always loved that concept where you go to work and just relax in the same way. The shoot was efficient, you have producers and staff that does their job fast. There was no lack of preparation, we finished it in 8 days. We even had delays but did it super fast. It's also a zero waste production, it was a great experience. The ecological aspect of the film is also seen in the way they made it. We hope this would also translate in what people would learn from the movie."
Dimples added "After watching the film, being in the real estate industry gave me somewhat an advantage to do this character. My husband and I invest heavily in that industry and when this story was presented to me, it wasn't far from what I think of land and its use. It could nurture, or destroy you. It made me think about how owning a title doesn't necessarily mean you are the rightful one to own a property. It makes you think in a bigger picture, and how we are all just property managers in one way or form. Over time, you get to think a lot about ownership even if you lease or sell the property to another person. This is not just horror but has so many underlying stories in it. Philippine cinema is evolving, and stories won't seem to be what it is on paper. This is the first movie I'm doing with Iza and I hope people see how special it is. We don't usually have projects because we often get the same character, but she guested in one project. Working with her is bliss, I know it would be fun but didn't realize it would be THIS FUN. When we are working on set, we usually see it as relief, but we're both moms and we see how we get to do a lot on set rather than just the things we do at home. She's one of the reasons why I see motherhood as a noble profession, I was doing teleseryes left and right, but working with her was intentional, but super easy because of her. She's like family. It was a very good experience, so many firsts, and hope you will see that in the film."
We also got to talk to the other cast members particularly Marco Masa, Jake and Jessica Taylor about their experience being in the film. Jake and Jessica are famous on YouTube and on Facebook, and this was a first for them. Marco on the other hand is quite seasoned despite his age and shared how he was so glad to be included in this project (he's been in a few on his own, and super thankful for the numerous projects he's in). Other stars like Inka Magnaye, Ashley Sarmiento, Althea Ruedas, Erika Clemente, Erin Rose Espiritu completes the cast. Listen in!
This is a movie that's entertaining, will teach you about the value of family, love, having responsibilities and taking ownership. This will be out on theaters tomorrow so if you have time to go to cinemas, this should be on your list. It will be on over 100 theaters and is under Regal Entertainment and Rein Entertainment.
This is one scary place... and makes you ask who the rightful owner is!
Just got out of the Shang cinemas for the advanced screening of "THE SUBSTANCE", a movie starring the iconic Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley and Dennis Quaid. It's a film by Coralie Fargeat and is released by CreaZion Studios in Southeast Asia. This will also be shown in Philippine theaters on September 25, 2024.
This already garnered an award from Cannes Film Festival for Best Screenplay and critics have already paid respects with this film that discusses looks, beauty standards and the miserable world of Hollywood.
This film for the lack of better description, is CRAZY. The shots alone for the scenes are non conventional. From far vantage points to super macro scenes, they apparently had a lot of fun doing that. Demi Moore is not playing games with this role, because it is her toughest, and bravest performance on the silver screen. This movie has a combination of sci-fi, drama, jump scares, shock and awe. This is still an acting piece, one that you wait for to happen every few minutes. You also need to be an adult to understand some of the concepts, and prepare a huge thinking cap from the moment they show Vlad and Gore (see what I did there!).
Margaret Qualley, albeit my first time seeing her, really left an impression. She's likeable, gorgeous, and fits the role. She's also flawless, I could liken her to a ultra fit femme fatale version of Billie Eilish.
Prosthetics are super cool, you would have never seen anything like it. The POV scenes made this a thrilling thing to watch, you'll feel weird, pity, mad and everything in between. I specifically would love to return to the movie house just for the thuds and running moments from the entertainment room to the bathroom. It's a Vlad fest. But it's made super good, especially for mature audiences. You will love how it ends, and its unconditional ways of making you feel different things.
I love weird movies, but this one was MAD GOOD. This made me want to bring back my personal weird emo days. So if you're looking for quality, and fond of horror flicks, or going to the dentist, watch it on theaters nationwide on the 25th! This gets 9/10 milk bottles for me.
Watched one of the featured films in Sinag Maynila called TALAHIB, a film directed by critically acclaimed director Alvin Yapan and produced by FEAST foundation. It's English title Legend of the Tall Grass tells a lot about where most of the incidents happen since this is a slasher film.
The elements are there, but since this is an Alvin Yapan film, the story telling felt a lot different from usual. If it were heavily commercial, it could have taken a route of violence all throughout but since it delves more into lore, detective work and their past wrongdoings, you would need to understand more of the conversations in order to decipher it. It did not depend on violence alone, it had elements of mental anguish, ghosts and indestructible beings as villains in the story.
Alvin Yapan says "I am so nervous about what we will see this afternoon, and at the same time excited that after a long while, we will be finally seeing this with the producers and the audience, and I hope they get to like what they could see in our film. We are planning to have this be shown in other platforms, that's also our goal."
He adds "This is the first time that the actors will be seeing the film (except playbacks). This is now complete with editing and sound, I hope those who would see this film appreciate the work we put in to hopefully spread the word about TALAHIB. We plan to put this in cinemas too on October for Halloween. This is R13, which we were gunning for. Hopefully we could get everyone to watch it, we didn't want it to be plainly a gorefest. I'd want Gillian to get a Best Actress nomination for her work here. I also gave Kristoff his time to shine in this project, and I've seen how he excellently is making drama executed too. (Spoiler) You'll see a long scene with Gillian showcasing her command on screen. This is an ensemble piece, but they have their own moments, their own spotlights that movie goers should watch out for."
Kristoff says "Gillian and I are really okay even after the shoot. It's been a year but we still stay in touch. We go out in groups sometimes, to bond over karaoke at times. Even before this project, I've already been able to watch Gillian in films. I know how great she is as an actress. I was really excited to work with her. When I saw her, I didn't know she was going to be that warm in person. She's also very kind, very pretty."
Gillian tells us "Of course I'm so happy to hear that from our director. The chance to work with him was already an honor, getting complements is just extra. I'm excited because this is also my first time to watch it on screen. We can't expect to win awards, so we don't get hurt in the end. I got recommended by Ms. Irma Adlawan and I'd like to thank her for that. We made this last year and we can't wait to see how it pans out on screen. I'm excited about TALAHIB even more because I'm not the one who's scaring people. I'm the one who's getting scared. It was also hard to shoot on location because you'll get to experience the sharp tall grass, it's real and you will experience getting nicked by its sharp blades every now and then."
Here's our video coverage of the premiere:
Congratulations to the Filipino Excellence in the Arts, Sciences and Technologies Foundation and other producers. This film certainly has that Alvin Yapan print on it. This will be shown in Gateway Mall, Robinsons Malls, SM Cinemas, and Market Market. Just check cinema schedules if you're raring to watch it on SINAG MAYNILA.
We sit and miss one of the most regarded actresses in Hollywood, Demi Moore. She's starring in this new movie called "THE SUBSTANCE" to be released by CreaZion Studios in Philippine cinemas this 25th.
She plays the role of Elisabeth Sparkle, an A-list star who got fired suddenly by her boss Harvey played by Dennis Quaid. In depression, she took refuge in the said substance and transformed into a different persona called Sue done by actress Margaret Qualley. It's a bit complicated though because she had to switch places (and bodies) every week, so imagine the crazy stuff the other person would do in her shoes.
This is penultimately a horror movie, so if you are looking for a genre aligned with classics like Death Becomes Her, The Fly or Carrie, you will enjoy this one too.
This is just one of the things that CreaZion Studios is working on, and soon you'll see them do TV, digital and other content for Southeast Asia. Can't wait to see this on theaters soon!
This morning was nice as we were able to talk to Pepe Herrera, famed actor and theater persona, starring in his film called BANTAY BAHAY under Regal Films. This is directed by Jose Javier Reyes who also joined via zoom during the mediacon.
Direk Joey said "I already had so much admiration for Pepe since I do see him in his previous projects and in theatre. I was working on this material for a while now and I did intentionally make this character for him.. he was always in our mind even prior to shooting this."
Pepe said "Direk Joey made me realize how it was possible to work within a specific time, his system was the best I've ever experienced among those that I've made in the past. We start at 10 and stop at 10pm, sometimes even earlier, and use the time to bond with the rest of the crew. I was prepared to be scolded initially, but turns out he only shouted once and it was funny. It was the best experience with him, and if there's a chance I'd love to work with him again."
The film was shot in a mansion in Sariaya, Quezon. They saw how naturally scary it was especially the basement. The house according to owners was a pre-war property and they put women and children in the basement in case Japanese would come. They didn't get to shoot in the basement because it was also claustrophobic. To give you an idea, they have posted a tour of it on the Regal Entertainment YT channel too.
Here's our interview with PEPE HERRERA during the mediacon
If you want to watch the film, it will be out in theaters nationwide this May 1st. Pepe is a very talented actor, and I hope in some way, you get to know him a little better in the video as he talked more about his personal life.
The MALLARI fever is on as they hold a big mediacon and fan conference at the Mall of Asia Music Hall this December 1st courtesy of the folks from Mentorque Productions and their new distributor partner Warner Brothers Pictures and Cleverminds Incorporated.
The film is part of this year's Metro Manila Film Festival entries which is highly coveted. This stars Mr. Piolo Pascual who plays the role of Father Juan Severino, a Filipino priest who met his untimely demise through the hands of the Spanish colonizers because of his acts. The event will also be graced by Mentorque Productions President John Bryan Diamante, lead stars Piolo Pascual, Janella Salvador, indie king JC Santos, Miss Universe 1969 Gloria Diaz, hunky Ron Angeles, Tommy Alejandrino, and a throng of actors in this real and semi fictional story of a priest that lived in the 1800's. He is said to have victimized over 57 people before getting stopped as the earliest recorded serial killer. Even older than Jack the Ripper.
Piolo says "For me as an actor, it's hard, but the difference of the characters were already described. The production value really was my consideration, the time I read the script, I already knew how big it was."
Gloria Diaz says she loves working with Piolo and adds "I love him, he is so nice. He is so maappeal. The director is a little tense, I am insecure with the new director so I always ask. The location, rain and distance was far, I had to do this of course."
Direk Derick says "Our set is fun, it's so easy to work because everyone was good vibes. The day 1 was severely difficult because we shot the ending first. I had questions about the way we shot this because it was very challenging to do 3 different personas and do it right away."
Janella says "The reason why it's called a curse (love as a curse) is because you want to do everything for the one you love, but I don't believe in that much."
Here's our video coverage, please enjoy!
This is Directed by Derick Cabrido who's dedication is unquestionably proven in this film. He showcased different timelines, periods that is not a usual topic in MMFF entries. Fans who love horror will surely love this offering, and international audiences will have a treat watching this horror flick on Christmas day. If you want to know more about MALLARI, visit Mentorque on Facebook and @mentorqueproductions on IG.
The Philippines' most coveted leading man and muti-awarded actor Piolo Pascual is going to be portraying a role of a s3rial kill3r set in different timelines in Mentorque Productions "MALLARI". This is based on a true story of Juan Severino Mallari, a Catholic Priest who has taken the lives of supposed 57 individuals in the small town of Magalang, Pampanga. They'll be mixing in some fiction showcasing World War 2 and 2023 and tell how these in some way are connected, a scary premise which Piolo wanted to do since it is quite far from characters he has been reprising in previous movie projects.
He initially said no to this movie because of the mere fact that it will be physically and mentally exhausting to do 3 roles in 3 different times plus the work required for prosthetics wouldn't be pleasing each shooting day.
Producer Bryan Diamante of Mentorque Productions says "This is a dream project, Mallari is very challenging but I'm excited to bring this to the big screen. I strived to create films that bring the imaginations to movies, and I'm glad to be able to work with a heavily awarded director Derick Cabrido, and writer Enrico Santos. Thank you very much Mr. Piolo Pascual for accepting this project. Join us in creating a proudly Filipino production and concept."
Director Derick Cabrido has won several accolades in New York film festivals (medals in different years) and has worked in different documentaries, short films, indie films and full length ones that he's released in film festivals in different parts of the world.
Piolo says "It's a relief that you don't have to think about results or box office because of the platforms, but we have a plan for the film. My being in the cinema, my only role is do your best, I don't have to think about commercial success, it's something that I am looking forward to do, I have these chances and I am thankful to do Mallari. I am grateful, when it happens, it happens. Initially I said no, but in the same day I said yes, I just have to do what I have to do. I grew up in a Catholic family, school, and I respect them everyday and in church. I wanted to become one when I was 18, attended Prex back in the day to have an easy life. They told me I need to study, I had a few attempts but ended up as an artista. Father's day was also special, my son was there and gave me an infinity necklace, he spent the day with me and we are doing projects together. He's a very talented young man, he's evolving, becoming a total performer, composed a few songs and I listened to it all day. We have a few dates in July for a concert. And hope a dance showdown happens in the last quarter of this year."
Today was just the contract signing and they plan to do a separate announcement for the cast which they have already chosen. Stay tuned for that and the actual movie which they plan to be part of the coming Metro Manila Film Festival this coming holidays 2023.
I feel there's a certain resurgence happening in the film industry, and with lots of room for growth, more players come in to get themselves associated with genres like drama, comedy, action, and sometimes horror. It provides exhilarating entertainment for folks of all ages, and so LGM Grand Entertainment and LMK Productions took the liberty of doing a film called PINOY GHOST TALES.
Writer Lawrence Nicodemus likens this to the series Shake, Rattle and Roll (which has sorely been missed in recent years on Metro Manila Film Festival) which he says has inspired him to write these three stories (a trilogy).
First is "The Imaginary Friend", while the second one is "The Manager", and third is called "The Actress". As the name suggests, "The Imaginary Friend" is about an entity that a kid talks to, unbeknownst to her family who wanted to keep her away from it but ends up getting the brunt of its different forms. It stars actress Shermaine Santiago, BL superstar Arkin Del Rosario, talented child star Elia Ilano (who by the way answered press questions quite nicely) and seasoned character actor Richard Quan.
The story of "The Manager" on the other hand talkes about two professionals who ended up fighting for a management post, but one of them was rumored missing (hence the scary part as she kept appearing when the protagonist was put on the same post). Hence one asks, is she a friend? or a foe? Much of the work involved was reprised by Aubrey Caraan. Also in the episode is vixen Katrice Keirulf, Ms. Veronica Reyes (who was also there during the press preview) and notable character actor Ping Medina.
Jeric Raval
For a mix of situational fun and horror, the last one called "The Actress" was actually enjoyable. It's like I was watching a Wen V. Deramas+ film all over again because Jeric Raval, Rob Sy, DJ Durano brought so much fun in the last episode. This is also a film where Jeric is appearing in this project with his son JK and daughter AJ Raval. The story revolves around the mysterious accident that happened going to the set of this film. AJ wasn't with Viva yet when they filmed this (much during pandemic). To give more context about the film, here's the press conference on video:
Currently, they are finding ways to put this out in either theaters or streaming platforms. This film was also made by three different Directors Afi Africa, Jojo Nadela and John Isaac Natividad. Surprising how Jeric also did a few funny situational skits in their episode so that's something you should watch out for.
This will be shown soon, so make sure you stay tuned for updates.
This October seems to be a nice month to be frightened. This is why Regal Films is not holding back a few days before Holloween in this funny horror film called THE DEBUTANTES. It stars current IT GIRLS Sue Ramirez, Miles Ocampo, Michelle Vito, Jane De Leon, Channel Morales and hunky Paolo Gumabao. If you see, it's stars are topbilled by real millenials and in a sense will revolve around Kate (played by Sue) who is just like any school girl, wanting to make friends and belong to a group.
That doesn't seem to work so only a few got in her groove and started to bully her silly all throughout the movie. Once she had a nightmare, she warned them about the bad things that happened but they didn't listen. They suddenly have mishaps along the way, is this karma? Oh no!
During the blogcon they shared their own stories of bullying because aside from the fact that it is the theme of this film, they all had their share of bullying too. Miles, Michelle and Jane had their projects destroyed by jealous classmates,they also said mean things about them physically. Their advise is to ignore them because bullying really happense because there are insecurities, which also needs an audience so they could look good by making you feel bad.
Miles added "I am still studying in UP but I am doing something big, but I'm not in a hurry really. I am not here for the fame, but for the longevity, because I am quite contented with the projects I have today. This is also my first time in Regal and I am so glad to have been able to do this because I was really excited about it during the story con."
Prime Cruz added "We have graphics, but we are doing a different treatment on this one, more neon lights, bright scenes and not necessarily like Manananggal my previous film. It's younger looking as this suits the millenials and we like to present it that way."
Jane quipped "I like this because it is my first horror film, and I get to experience how it is to be a mean girl, something that I don't like in real life."
Paolo Gumabao says "I spent a long time in Taiwan studying but got bullied there because I was Filipino, from gradeschool to highschool it was difficult. They all laughed at me when I told them that my dream was to be a movie star, and look at me now! This age is when we are about to get matured, formation, and you get to be more serious about love."
The film will show on October 4, 2017 and if you're not doing anything that day, might as well watch it and see what a bunch of millenials could do. This is done by Idea First Company and produced Regal Films.
I watched the movie "Pwera Usog" last night and I actually enjoyed it! The movie is definitely made for teens. You will get scared, but I don't want to spoil it for you. But I'll give you reasons why you should watch it.
1. You'll have over the board knowledge of how "USOG" works. Extra information on how it happens and how to cure it the albularyo way.
2. You will give above and beyond importance to SALIVA. Don't ask why.
3. You'll learn to be INDEPENDENT just because you are a star on Youtube. The crazier the stunt, the more viral, the better. Then you'll see how wrong that thought is.
4. Family first. Let your parents the real score, they can't help you if you're leaving them out in the dark.
5. Do not underestimate SALT. It does wonders!
6. Aiko Melendez is an action star. You do not mess with her!
7. Albie Casino is a good swimmer and loverboy, you'll see him shed skin, but don't disturb him in the comfort room, you'll be sorry!
8. Joseph Marco does drama, suspense and horror, but there are slow and sure ways he could make you laugh. Try not to snort if you are doing it.
9. Sofia Andres is a FAST LEARNER. Don't wave your wand or do mumbo jumbo in front of her, she'll learn and do it in just a few minutes.
10. "Pwera Usog" is a pretty good, creepy, Filipinized AVENGERS movie. Again, don't ask me why!
If you want to know why I said these things, and find out yourself, go to cinemas on March 8 and treat your family (ages 13 and up) to a horror film made and designed for millenials. It is just different if you watch it on a movie theater. Thanks to Regal Films you still have horror films to watch in the Philippines that are quite good.
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