Filmmaker Rechie Del Carmen Builds Promising "BATANG PACO" Cast

Looks like there exists a movement to make an action comedy flick called "Batang Paco". Direk Rechie Del Carmen has confirmed they are already building an ensemble cast for it. Known for character driven films, she wants to make this intricately done by choosing apt ones for roles, because this isn't just going to be action and comedy, but will also contain family drama which Producer Ana Abiera Del Moral says Direk Rechie understands, and needs to have meaningful emotional core, so they could breathe new life to these characters once the film starts rolling. 

They also divulged the appearance of Chichi Rita, who's wit and charm will rival lead actors Empoy Marquez and Ms. Aiai Delas Alas comedic powers, it's going to be more fun than usual. The cast also includes Mon Confiado, Ynez Veneracion, Richard Quan, Alma Concepcion, Lara Morena, Natasha Ledesma, Gerard Acao, Kookoo Gonzales, Josh Ivan Morales, Kim Rodriguez, Jovi Vargas and Quentin Molo among others. It's going to be a crazy time and very Manila, written by one of the most successful writers in cinema, Ms. Gina Marissa Tagasa. This will be under MiVida Productions Inc., and "Batang Paco" will hit theaters on February 18th, stay tuned for that!

ALDEN RICHARDS Brings PH to Hollywood via "BIG TIGER" with Max Collins, Byron Mann, Katherine McNamara and Luke Goss

If you haven't heard, Alden Richards is taking his shot at Hollywood this coming 2026. Yes, you heard that right, Asia's well loved multimedia star is producing and becoming a part of "BIG TIGER" an action flick he's starring with fellow GMA star Max Collins, HK American Byron Mann (omg he's Ryu in Street Fighter!), and action star Katherine McNamara, and English actor Luke Goss (who's had several movies in his belt). 

How did this all start? Alden told us that he personally went to LA to look for studios that he could work with via his production company Myriad Entertainment (who's done several ones in the PH). There were a lot of them that he approached but it was either not feasible for them (and a whole lot of other reasons). When he talked to the folks from LUX Angeles Studios, Bims and Sawyer Studios and Voltage Pictures, all it took was 2 zoom meetings and one personal appearance to make things happen. With a Filipino production team based here in the Philippines, Keoni Waxman felt how smooth it was to stage the shoot here, and got lots of praises for the texture they got from locations that would have cost millions to build in the US. Here, it's all natural, and producers called it "COST EFFECTIVE" to make it happen here.

Here's what Alden had to say about that!

 Here's the full video of the media conference a few days ago:

There are tons of plans now to do several flim projects with Myriad Entertainment, and according to the producers, about 9 to 10 films the least. This is huge especially for the ones looking for locations outside the US, and it will bring jobs for PH crews, for Philippine based actors that they plan to do. This is ultimately what Alden wants to happen, and these are all challenges that he will try to overcome. He says "The reinforcement from production partners, to highlight the Philippines, as a location hub for Asia, if this comes true, we will have the chance to increase the quality of what we can do here in the country! I hope to work with Hollywood stars and do it with Filipino actors, this is an opportunity to bring more people to work in the Philippines and have the Filipino actors work here too. They didn't know how affordable it was to make films here, now they do!"

Max says "It's so different to see Alden do this (as an Antagonist) because we've worked together before in ILLUSTRADOS. That's totally different with our characters, he's an @SSH0LE and it was amazing and sexy, his fans would love to see more of those!"

BIG TIGER is a place in the film, and you'll see why it is called that once you see it in cinemas. They have plans to show it here, distribute it in the US and streaming platforms. This is where Alden is going, are you going to support him all the way?!

I know, I would!

Level Up Content Creation with AKASO Action Cameras

I've been raring to find something that could up my content creation journey and yes, a 360 degree camera would gladly fit. It's been on my bucket list lately so it wouldn't be just the run of the mill interviews that I'd have but rather a way to show how we'd get there in a fun way. AKASO has got a line of action cameras in their arsenal that would fit any lifestyle that you have and they recently announced their expansion in the Philippines with the help of Siklab Spark Corporation (who's also going to have exclusive rights to distribute it in the country!)

At the event, they had the executives re-introduce the various devices and how it could take videos and content creation to another level plus a few more reasons on why one should consider an AKASO 360 action camera.

Here's what happened on video:

If you are keen to have one, they've got really good promos on TikTok Shop, Shopee and Lazada. It costs Php 12,288 on TikTok, also offered for Php 11,888 on Snopee, and Php 12,188 on Lazada. Make sure to use all the available vouchers to get it. They are also offering the AKASO V50 X for Php 6,988, and have it even lower on the same platform. Same goes with the AKASO EK7000 which you can get less than 4K with available vouchers. I think it's time you consider getting one. If that ain't enough, following them on these platforms would also get you the chance to win on October 22. They'll announce the winners 8pm that day. Make sure you also follow their social channels to know more of these products and future promos they plan to implement, because they've got plans to do so!

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Can't wait to take it out for a spin today! It's time we take our shots to another level!

See A Different Wahlberg in FLIGHT RISK

It's been a while since we've seen Mark Wahlberg on screen, and yes, he's been sorely missed. We loved his previous movies and also the reality shows with his family. But now, it's going to be him, Michelle Dockery who plays Madelyn Harris (as an FBI agent) and a multitude of Hollywood actors in mix (note Topher Grace) who's going to tell the gripping story of "Flight Risk". 

While it may seem like a simple story, it's got a lot of intricate things done to make this appear like a smooth ride, but as anticipated, it wouldn't be one. As expected with a Mark Wahlberg flick, he's going to incorporate that Swedish-Irish physique to good use. He made Topher Grace and Michelle Dockery's character miserable for most of the film, but you've got to see how that happens. This also tells the story of how politics, the mafia, corruption and air travel should not be in one place, but you will root for the lead and want this person to survive this ordeal.

This is the kind of movie that would sometimes make you squirm on your seat, a think that may happen a few times because no matter how they intended to fortify their procedures, there's bound to be some mishaps in between. The only enemy here is complacency, because once they do, it may spell the end, or is it? 

This film is like a character actors dream project. Super love how they portrayed the three lead roles, and the little funny quirky things they also inserted to bring a little humor. But do expect action, fight scenes with Mark Wahlberg is always so satisfying.

Flight Risk is being distributed by Black Cap Productions in the Philippines but is under Lionsgate internationally. It shows in cinemas today, so make sure you head on leading theaters to see it.

TOPAKK: An Intense Action Masterpiece with ARJO ATAYDE and JULIA MONTES for MMFF 2024

Watching TOPAKK on the silver screen was the best decision I've ever made this Metro Manila Film Fest 2024 season.

 Why you'd ask? Simple, it wouldn't feel the same if I'd watch this simply on digital or streaming platforms. It gives a different vibe, of almost 2 hours of intense, violent, brutal, savage, rough and aggressive scenes all put together by Director Richard Somes, same guy who brought you OTJ, Ekis, and more eccentric action films in Philippine cinema. You've got that a bit expected yeah, but the topic, intimacy of describing PTSD in a structured military environment and how people suffer all throughout their life is something else to think and talk about... this was a venue to know more about it and they've managed to put that in the story.

 Arjo Atayde, Julia Montes, Sid Lucero in one film concept wise is quite crazy (and is not the sole reason why this is called TOPAKK). Their stellar performances in different projects alone is something that would inspire an "actors actor". While Arjo carries good looks, this movie gives him major rawness. The closeups filled with his small freckles on screen was noticed, and absolutely lovely to see aesthetically since this is a bit dark, dingy and gloomy especially on the last scenes at the steel warehouse. I would gladly compare his role to John Wick, but again, very raw and local. You could see how he showcases his struggles, which I'd bet be better with a dog (for maybe a sequel). His acting chops are unquestionable, being Best Lead Actor at ContentAsia Awards was evident. He evolves wherever he gets into a role, and you'll admire his tenacity to live, not just for himself but for others. 

Julia Montes is an action star. Gone are the crying drama princess roles she's been in the past years, because she is as intense as anybody on that set. Her knack for conversations complemented each and every single time she'd want to take revenge, throw a punch, smash someone's f4ce on the metal platforms just to make sure people felt her intensity to love them dearly. She definitely did not shortchange with the physical requirements that this role entailed or required, and you'll root for her. She's got a cause (that involves Kokoy De Santos) and it makes her hunger for changing her life inevitable. With the help of Arjo's character, their once not so connected lives begin to complement each other. You'll know why when you watch TOPAKK.

Here's what happened at the red carpet premiere!

You'll see some of the roles may have been brief, but don't be mistaken, all of these are essential. Congratulations also to stars Enchong Dee, Kokoy De Santos, and the ensemble cast (especially the bad guys) who performed well. You'll love this so much for the cast, the story line and it's cause.

This has had lots of rave reviews abroad, bringing this home was serendipitous, had a lot of promise, and they'll give you what you asked for. This is super apt for this year's Metro Manila Film Festival, it gives us viewers the OPTIONS we deserve. The R18 rating I think is because of the violence and gore, but the R16 version won't feel like it ain't enough. This also stars Vin Abrenica, Cholo Barretto, Bernard Palanca, Ms. Maureen Mauricio, so there's more to the story.

If you miss action movies, want to see your favorite actors do different things from the usual, you need to see TOPAKK. This and other entries in the MMFF 2024 are so good, but you definitely should have this on your list because you'll have your action thirst be extinguished, you get to feel you're part of it and feel tired because you've been in the middle of the scenes all along. Congratulations to Nathan Studios, Sir Art, Ms. Sylvia, Gela, Ria, and Arjo for such an amazing piece. Here's hoping they get a nod come awards night because from the looks of it, they do deserve it!

Though there might be some flaws in effects and story, forgivable. They still got the message across and sustained it's intensity all throughout the film. For Arjo, Julia Montes, and the sheer brutality this presents, it made me still choose this film to have 4 out of 5 Cows. 🐮🐮🐮🐮

PS. That float you had during the parade was amazing!

TOPAKK Comes Home for MMFF 2024

It was hot, humid, but everyone was in a celebratory mood over at the TOPAKK press conference in Quezon City. Greeted by a different sounding Basti Artadi performing on stage, I was like "Wow!" because of how b4d 4$$ it was, it felt like a dream for me. Then they started the presscon.

We had the pleasure of actually being on location when they shot TOPAKK in Rizal for the finale scenes. Just looking at it back then, I knew this was going to be something special because it will bring back a genre that was sorely missed, plus we get to see multi awarded actors on screen like Cong Arjo Atayde, Julia Montes, Sid Lucero, Enchong Dee and Kokoy de Santos. 

They also had Levy Ignacio, Bernard Palanca, Paolo Paraiso, Vin Abrenica, Cholo Barretto, Julio De Leon, Ivan Carapiet, Jeffrey Tam, Gerard Acao, Michael Roy, veteran character actress Ms. Maureen Mauricio, Elora Espano, Claire Ruiz, Anne Feo, Bong Cabrera, Manu Respall, Rosh Barman, Victor Medina, Ivan Rivera, Ian Lee, Nico Dans, Yian Gabriel, Raquel Pareno, Precious Laingo, Kayley Carrigan and Geli Bulaong to complete the ensemble cast for this film. Mind you, this has been showcased and raved about in different film festivals internationally. This year, it's going HOME to the Philippines and will be shown on the 50th Anniversary of Metro Manila Film Festival. This feels like fate to say it frankly.

Direk Richard Somes is one heck of an action film director. The quality is certainly for international consumption, and he didn't shortchange with regards to set design and hard knocking scenes. What's a bit of a let down though is the rating because this is R18 outside SM Cinemas while those who want to see it in SM can do it on an R16 rating. This has heavy fight scenes and very bl00dy encounters so we kinda understand why it's rated that way. Though I would suggest you do the R18 version so you could get the full experience of the movie. Don't worry though for the R16 because you will still learn and get the story.

Nathan Studios producer Ms. Sylvia Sanchez isn't worried about it though because they're giving movie goers real good options. Aside from Nathan Studios, they are working with Fusee and Strawdogs as producers for this project. Hopefully to make more of these (a sequel no?). Some of the people who saw the movie that evening told me this is a material where Julia Montes really excelled, though she's been doing action stuff on Coco Martin's TV series, she is more hands on in the scenes. She's going to be in really physical fight scenes which she's never done before. This is more raw, and Julia with Arjo means it's got emotional scenes will be there. They also had the army spokesperson at the press conference praising them about how they portrayed the Filipino soldiers, TOPAKK will certainly be a good thing to watch if you're thirsty for action films this year.

This is the opportune time for you to watch TOPAKK, it's international release name is Triggered. You've got to see why critics have been raving about it. Hopefully, this picks up awards in this festival too!

Differently Executed: John Woo's SILENT NIGHT in PH Theaters on the 29th

Nathan Studios has a gem up their sleeve with this new PH released John Woo movie called Silent Night. It's an action packed film, created quite differently than usual ones because of how it's made, as it's suggests, it's all silent.  John Woo gleefully placed his different action ballet shots, that will surely be loved by action fans in the Philippines, and worldwide. I'm sure your Dad, Tito, Kuya would need a break from the usual romcom in cinemas and give this a few hours to watch with the whole family. 

You'll be amazed at how this story of a man out for vengeance for his child will be told. Right at the start, the story gives you the feeling that it has heart. The usual suburb Mom and Dad playing in the yard with their son. Yes, the scenes always had family involved. Gang wars erupt, and one gets hit in the crossfire. He starts his long grueling time to recover, train and realize what he's up against. You'll feel the agony on screen in the first few minutes. With his wife also worried about him, he suffered further and became a drunkard staring mostly on what his son had left in his room, the memories and pain he felt was just insurmountable. This caused a rift with his wife, and everyone else in his life. He took off and sought the gang members one by one, and doesn't hold back.

If you're a gamer, the events in this movie reminds me so much of GTA5. It's got firepower, the goons, the gangs, and the fun starts with a huge car chase in the streets. Think of it as your dream sequence where you hold the armaments, where you think of gruesome ways to eliminate the bad guys til the end of the movie. The drama was quite minimal, aimed to only solidify the story's plot and wouldn't ruin the action scenes that John Woo wanted you to see from the very beginning, I'd say this is a showcase of his genius.

If your thirsty for action, make sure to make this part of your movie watching session on the 29th. Yes there are a couple of movies coming out on that date, but if you have the time, you SHOULD see this. After all, it's been a while since the last time John Woo released a film. Thanks to Nathan Studios, you've got the chance to watch it in the Philippines. Actually, they have a few more lined up in the pipeline and each of them are quite different theme wise. It's quite a refreshing thing to see that we have choices in the cinemas now. I can't wait to see the other films that Nathan Studios still have for next year!

JOHN WOO Flick "SILENT NIGHT" in Philippine Theaters November 29

If you're raring to watch an action packed film these holidays, look no further as legendary award winning director JOHN WOO and Joel Kinnaman take you on a gripping film called "SILENT NIGHT". He adds this to hit films like Face Off, Hard Target, Mission Impossible 2, Paycheck, Reign of Assassins and Manhunt among others that he made in a span of 55 years in film. This will be in theaters come November 29 in the Philippines.

Silent Night is sort of a comeback for the director after his last one in Hollywood in 2017. He also is collaborating with Basil Iwanyk who produced Expandables and John Wick among others.

Joel Kinnaman on the other hand has been doing Netflix series House of Cards, Robocop, Suicide Squad. In this film, he's playing a father looking for justice because his son got caught in the crossfire of gangs over the holidays.

Sad for years, he went through rigorous training to find revenge with the same gang, so imagine the bullet ballet John Woo had to execute with that premise alone. Aside from Joel Kinnaman, cast includes Scott Mescudi, and a throng of character actors that will make this action packed film as intense or even better than his previous masterpieces.

John Woo is certainly a visionary, and this film was brought to the Philippines via Nathan Studios and 888 Films International. There will be more in the coming months for sure, but together with their recent hit series Cattleya Killer and Topakk, there will be no moviegoer that will say they're shortchanged when they go to cinemas. Follow Nathan Studios social channels for more updates about the film!

VOLTES V Legacy's Big Bert Matt Lozano Releases 3rd Single "LIHAM"

I've known Matt Lozano for a couple of years now. When he started in the industry, we've known him for being a really emotional singer, likened to the John Mayer style we've all known to love. He's done several covers, but have began releasing a few singles including "Kwarto" under GMA Music, "Walang Pipigil" which was done in 2021, and now a new single called "LIHAM" under the same label.

LIHAM is a lot different from its predecessors. Much of it is because of the fact that he did this in just a few minutes, stemmed from raw emotions which he showed to producers later on and published with GMA Music. It's also about moving on, finding yourself, and see how you could recover from a heartbreak. Surely, this will resonate with a lot of people. He gave us a live performance of it here!

@kumagcow VOLTES V LEGACY's BIG BERT aka @mattlozanomusic sings LIHAM his 3rd single under @gmamusic #voltesvlegacy #mattlozano #EntertainmentPH #tiktokshowbizreporter ♬ original sound - John Bueno

Matt Lozano has been dreaming of this day, to finally get the fruits of his labor... especially in the acting work he's done these past few years doing Voltes V: Legacy. He's been lauded by critics in movie/TV reviews. To say he's done a great job in reprising the role of Big Bert would certainly be an understatement. He's thankful for the opportunities that are opening up for him as Voltes V: Legacy becomes a household favorite for Filipinos everywhere.

Check out our interview with him here:

I don't know if Matt Lozano is single, but if he is, he's surely going to have a lot of ladies loving him for his singing. Go stream "LIHAM" on Spotify and other streaming platforms. There's also a lyric video which they shot while recording coming out on YouTube, so make sure you're subscribed to GMA Music's YouTube channel.

Thank you Matt! I'm so happy to see how your career has taken flight. Congratulations!

ARJO ATAYDE Praises JULIA MONTES in Action Film TOPAKK

 

This has been under the wraps for quite a while since they've been looking for an international release for this film a couple months back. They've secured it but kept mum about who had the rights for distributing this new action flick called TOPAKK starring Congressman Arjo Atayde, the very elusive Julia Montes, very talented actor Sid Lucero. This is Directed by Richard Somes who also did several films and TV series on ABSCBN.  We sat down with them after a grueling shoot that afternoon while marveling at their real cuts and bruises which they got from the scenes they did that day.

 Arjo says "JM was supposed to play this role but he wasn't available because of a series he's involved in. TOPAKK is about a guy who has PTSD, in a nutshell, he's a little crazy. But really, if you have this condition, it doesn't automatically mean you are crazy, because there might be reasons why you act a certain way which will be shown on the film. This also talks about how there might be no support system in the military. This is quite a very well thought out concept by our Director Richard Somes, I just feel so lucky to be on board and able to work with some of the best actors and actresses in the country."

 

@kumagcow Some behind the scenes look at TOPAKK with @arjoataydeofficial #JuliaMontes and Sid Lucero #tiktokshowbizreporter #EntertainmentPH ♬ Tuwing Umuulan - Moira Dela Torre

With Nathan Studios, Arjo adds "We do talk about it with the whole family. Before the pandemic, my Mom was really looking forward to putting out quality content by having a production company of our own. This was born out of passion, and Nathan Studios was already involved in Catleya Killer before this project, and much of the projects are under post production, hopefully they will all come out soon. As much as possible, we want to tap the international market first before showcasing it locally. Because I'm in public service, Nathan Studios is handled more by Mom. For creative inputs, suggestions, we try to come up with that. It's a blessing to also work with great directors because they also do that. Richard Somes is a brilliant Director, and he's so intense! He doesn't just do lip service, as you can see during the shoot he's doing everything including stunts and shows us how its done. You'll see him on set and getting wet too, he's not all talk, he knows what he wants and if he sees it on screen that a punch is awkward, you'll have to do it again."

 

Sid Lucero and Director Richard Somes for TOPAKK

He also talked about working with Julia Montes and says "Some actors often say that you'll see a different person here, but you will see a different kind of Julia. The character was specifically made for her, and she had to do a lot of new things in this movie. She really brought her A game, I have worked with her in a series before and I can say, she's going to blow your mind when you watch her in this movie. There also won't be a romantic angle between us, which is something new because it doesn't rely on a love story which is often seen on Philippine cinema. I'm telling you, what she's done in this movie is just over the top. We're so lucky to have Julia in this film!"

We also got to talk to Director Richard Somes and brilliant actor Sid Lucero, who gave us more insight about how this film was made. Listen in!

We also had the opportunity of watching the raw trailer for the film after the shoot, and I must say, you will get quite exhausted on how they tied up the story and action scenes. Hopefully, when this comes out this year, Filipinos would get a glimpse of TOPAKK and see how these fine actors did justice with their roles. Arjo didn't get those Best Actor trophies for nothing. And Julia Montes is just starting to get her face seen on the international stage, people will definitely love her acting prowess because of how genuine she is to this day. Here is also our talk with Arjo that evening.

 

This film also stars Bernard Palanca, Enchong Dee, Kokoy de Santos and a lot of other actors. It's time we get a taste of the action genre once again in cinemas!

MEGASTAR Sharon Cuneta Joins FPJ's ANG PROBINSYANO on their 6th Anniversary!

If you've been hooked with FPJ's ANG PROBINSYANO all these years, the biggest MEGA twist will be happening very soon as the MEGASTAR Ms. Sharon Cuneta joins the action drama series.

Ms. Sharon sat down with Gretchen Fullido and said "This was an easy decision for me, when they sent me messages, Coco pitched the story to me and it was a no brainer. I was just a little nervous because I had to be there everyday. Aside from that, this is the biggest series in the country. My family is equally excited to see me in the show. I am so thrilled to be part of this. I've worked with the cast previously, so it's a big factor to be part of this especially when FPJ is my best best friend in the business. This is my tribute to him. I accepted it right on the spot, it was really a dream come true. I'm in the position to say just rest, but it's an honor for me to be part of the cast. The concept was just something Coco had dreamed of one early morning, I was informed when I was in the US and he requested I appear. He was just coming out about the story and he's excited. It's connected, I'm grateful for that and I can't wait to be in Ilocos for the locked in taping. I have experience in doing in bubble tapings, and this is a lot like it because when I made the movie revirginized, this was something like that. I think I'm older, wiser, the character has really good twists and turns, I can do anything just as long as it's not bold (she jokes). We'll have flashbacks, it's different in TV, I have yet to find out what'll happen in the smaller screen, it's just a different platform. I had to cram in shoots because it's how Olivia Lamasan, I'm easy to work with especially if we have reliable scripts. I'm okay with changes and it'll be more drama for me this time. This is more mental than physical, I wake up really early and the preparation took weeks, we're gearing up for a bigger challenge in our life. FPJ and I used to call each other clatput, it's a term of endearment when I was wearing a wedding gown in the middle of a field. He taught a lot of things to KC, the late night phone calls was memorable too. He called me one night just to brag in a sari sari store he used to go to. I miss that, I learned a lot talking to people because that's what he does in real life, it's why he's called King. The biggest stars I've worked with are the most humble, the ones with air, are not here anymore (she kids). He was a good person, humble, kind, very funny. When he drinks beer, I was running off but he would catch me. FPJ also talked to Robin, Daboy, and told the leading men to be gentlemen with me. I had a Father, a Friend, a protector... he was a knight and shining armor in showbiz."

 

She adds "Coco had a different touch. I am very proud for honoring FPJ in this series. I think it'll be a really long back story, I can't confirm what relationship we'll be having. I will be starting taping very soon, and this will be different because Coco will also be directing. He's got a really good creative team, it's a different way of telling the story because earlier in the story conference, it surprised me, surprised all of us! I used to do MMK but it was super hard to do a morning to morning shoot and the stress of memorizing and crying in long hours was crazy. Osang told me they've worked in best situations in FPJAP, I'm glad they implemented this change of working 12 hours max. I will give my best, I will work hard for this. To Coco, my cast members, Julia Montes, they've got a role to do. They've amazing to see how dedicated, very young, but this show has been number one for 6 years and he's doing very well. He dreams about the show, and to see how committed he is exciting. I can't wait to discover what else is in store for the viewers of the show."

Ms. Sharon Cuneta will be in FPJ's ANG PROBINSYANO really soon. She was also welcomed to the show by Creative Director Coco Martin, ABSCBN COO of Broadcast Ms. Cory Vidanes, TV Prod Head Laurenti Dyogi, and Dreamscape's Entertainment Head Deo Endrinal. These are really exciting times!

Beautiful Justice with Gabbi Garcia, Bea Binene and Yasmien Kurdi

You ain’t see action like these in GMA yet, so it is quite nice to see them do this. As PDEA Agents, they form a band together to finish people behind the deaths of their lovef ones. Bing Loyzaga will be a formidable foe, so will they succeed? Maybe.

Heated encounters, a mole in the agency will prove it very hard to solve cases. This September 9 will be a different evening as they showcase their training, real stuff which they had to undergo before shooting this. Yes, it’s called Beautiful Justice. This stars Gabbi Garcia, Bea Binene and Yasmien Kurdi. Gil Cuerva, Derrick Monasterio, Valeen Montenegro, Victor Neri, Gabby Eigenmann will reprise some of the roles in the first few weeks, what will happen to them? That’s what you’ll see on Monday.

Gabbi and Yasmien weren’t there but Bea says “There are different challenges here, on how you deliver. This is based on suggestions from PDEA agents themselves so while we try and find out or own Beautiful Justice, there will also be a bit of other cases on different days and not just our own case. This is also hard to do because we had to train for a month and continuously remain to do so til now because the project is just bold. We have had training previously but the fight sequences need us to train, all of us that is.” 

The show already started yesterday so if you wanna see more, stay on GMA!

8 Good Reasons Why You Should Watch TRES

Saw the movie TRES this evening at Rockwell’s Powerplant Mall in Makati. I was there to meet a special person because I’ve heard they were going around cinemas to personally say hi to people. It’s a good work ethic and a good place to get to know them offline. Anyway I have that on video, and I want to make you to support the movie like I do, so here I am giving you 8 good reasons why you should watch the movie TRES. 

1. It’s three movies in one. Three guys who have slight age differences can show you different views of the drug menace. 

2. If you miss Bong Revilla, his three kids would be good representatives. He would be proud to see his boys on screen.

3. Bryan Revilla exudes machismo. If you like men who looks and breathes like him, he’s your guy. His tight action scenes would make you feel a little claustrophobic, but you’ll love how it’ll end. 

4. Luigi Revillla is a millennial, he makes his action scenes easy because he’s got his martial arts background to take care of that.

5. Jolo Revilla is so close to Bong Revilla, you would ingest his scenes as if you’re watching his films in the past. Jolo moves like him, and if you’re fond of the cheesy romantic angles while in the middle of a shootout, that’s him.

6. They didn’t hold back on budget, they were shooting with real guns (blanks of course). They also got cars, mobile patrol vehicles and SUV’s explode. 

7. You won’t know who’s an enemy, or who’s the good guy. It happened several times, it’s a nice thing to have to twist the story. So you get a little bit of drama, a little bit of suspense.

8. It’s a mix of corruption, vices, lies, crime and a little fun. You’ll love the action scenes, you’ll love the ladies, you’ll love Bryan, Luigi and Jolo on screen.

Here's a bonus, a video for all my readers :)

Go head on to theaters today and get a does of action with the Revilla brothers. Make sure you tag along your friends and family so you can analyze and try to predict how it ends, I didn’t sleep because it had fun and interesting parts placed nicely throughout the film. Look for it while you watch in theaters nationwide. This is produced by IMUS Productions and distributed by Star Cinema’s Cine Screen.

KUMAGCOW
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Action Film THE TRIGONAL Hits Theaters September 26

Had working lunch with the cast and people from the movie THE TRIGONAL. It’s an action film locally distributed by Viva Films and made by famed action director Vincent Soberano. This is the first starring role of Ian Ignacio, an actor that’s also a Taekwondo and Jiu Jitsu athlete. It also stars Monseur Del Rosario, world champ wushu athlete Sarah Chang, Epie Quizon and a lot more.

Director and actor Vincent Soberano says “Thank you for coming, our trailer from Viva Films. When we first released this, it was three hours. We had to trim it down for Cannes, now it’s even shorter but this one is still 100 minutes. This is a collage of scenes that was cut out from the Philippine release, they want to live in a small town but Jacob (played by Ian Ignacio) decides to go and compete again. This is going to be shown on September 26. This starts as a love story, not just action. You’ll love what you’ll see. I haven’t been in the Philippines for a long time, I took on a supporting role as Tony Pascual and tried to track down the elusive drug lord Henry Tan and we had to infiltrate him using the underground fights. This is one of the big reasons why I came back from the US and China, trying to pitch this to the Beijing and Shanghai film market and they really looked down on it. That was 2015 and it was my personal goal to create a high quality high action movie. My childhood friend Monseur and Levi one day talked to me and this was my choice to bring the genre back to the Philippines. I want to also bring this to the international stage, I wanted to push for the Pinoy to be the hero. It’s what made the US quite good on screen, film will have a lot of impact. This is the first step. The second one is to put Filipino stars on it, including some of the best fighters in the world so we could promote the Filipino films to the world! This is my first Philippine released film, but I had projects in the past. I met Ian in a party, he had theater background and that is a solid foundation. He is also a black belter, so when we made blood hunters, it was his testing ground. When I saw him there, I knew I could make him as the next Bruce Lee, as he’s a legitimate fighter and a good actor. I talked to Mon and asked about Ian, I didn’t look for another guy anymore and gave it a shot. In the rehearsals, I was very confident and he didn’t look back. I started film making in San Diego, lived there for 25 years and finished film school. I worked for a studio in the 90’s, I started doing odd jobs then assitant direction, I did this together with my Martial Arts career. I needed to fight so I could win and get winnings and pay for my tuition. I also teach Martial Arts. I was discouraged at first to make films in the Philippines because action had a slump. I went to Beijing to do projects there, learned Martial Arts too. I casted Rhian Ramos because she fit a lot of requirements, we had enough time to train her and the martial artists we had all helped. In my style the punches and kicks really hit actors, she was partnered with a person with years od training so he can roll with a blow. Rhian is very athletic. We had a lot of auditions, she wasn’t hand picked and she did it with her own credits. We just taught her the proper form and that’s why you’ll see her good in the movie.”

Levi says “I am the chemist, contrived, a support role but got caught. I saw Ian walk in the martial arts schools in the US, but I always had one person in mind to do martial arts, it was only Monseur Del Rosario. I knew I could trust him, he learned the ropes. You have to know how to punch, kick, and that takes years.”

Congressman Monseur Del Rosario adds “I have been out of movies for 13 years. I haven’t done much. My role is their sensei, they are doing underground fighting and if Ian wants to win they have to go under me so they can win in underground fights. It has some true to life elements, I am supporting my nephew and I have known him for a long time. My last film was 2005-2006, with Ronnie Rickets and Regal. I wasn’t offered action movies after that but I always offered contra bida roles and it wasn’t quite nice for my image. I entered public service in Makati, so I focused there. Now I am congressman, so I am taking that seriously. I met with Vincent and told him it didn’t work for me so we met and made short films first, it won best short martial arts film in New York. The Trigonal is the second movie, and our next one is very big. We wanted them to get a taste first and I knew I coached Ian well, he was ought to be in the national team, now he can speak tagalog, English too so we want a worldwide audience. Vincent also had this shown to Jackie Chan and he said it’s good but a little long, it’s why we edited it for the other festivals. Now with the people who watched it, we received good feedback even the martial arts practitioners who watched it. He’s the only one who got in the Shaolin Temple (Direk Vincent), he put up his own martial arts school in Beijing and got the respect of masters there. In Ian’s generation, he is an authentic fighter. He is also single. So if you have someone to refer to him just let him know (he kids). The Trigonal is an underground competition, a triangle ring where they fight till one goes down. It happens in Mexico, Vince knows a lot, Sarah Chang is also a world champion.”

Ian Ignacio says “I am Jacob Casa, a lover and fighter, a husband wanting to be a fighter. This is my first movie playing lead. I wanted to do showbusiness but had to go through my Dad. I was in Engkantadya and Buy Bust. I compete in Taekwondo and Jiu Jitsu. I competed in the seniors even if I was just in highschool.”

Sarah Chang says “I play Mei Li, I visited Bacolod and helped Jacob into the underground league. I was in Bloodhunters last January, did the action scenes here and did scenes for them. I started doing Wushu since I was 7, a friend introduced me to Vincent two years ago  at the Jackie Chan center at the outskirts of Beijing.”

Epie Quizon says “We have a dojo, and this is where most of the trainings happened. I don’t want to spoil things with my character so I’ll stop there. They all have black belts, I asked them to fight me. I am a business partner of their dojo, I am not as good as them but I convinced Ian not to fight anymore and just concentrate on the business. I hold the secret to the twist.” 

To make a good movie you need everyone to chip in and really good actors. This is hard to do and these elements will make or break that vision of what the Director wants the movie to look like. They are so lucky to have been able to work together, they already have accolades with the talent they have behind and in front of the camera. They are very good. This is very promising. 

I hope they can do good in the box office. They deserve it.

KUMAGCOW

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Jolo Revilla for TRES

Just got off the the press conference of TRES, a trilogy of film episodes starring the three Revillas Jolo, Bryan and Luigi. We had time to talk to Vice Governor Jolo Revilla and he was very game to answer questions for the upcoming film. His part is called 72 hours, which will more or less show what will happen in scenes, in that amount of time.

Jolo says “I always see you in presscons, I am so happy for your support and trust after all these years. My episode is called 72 hours, I am here with other stars like Albert Martinez, Rhian Ramos, Dominic Roque, Ronwaldo Martin, Benj Manalo, Raikko Mateo and Precious Lara Quigaman. I am so blessed to have been able to come back through Probinsyano, a chance that I didn’t want to miss. I lost almost 60 pounds, my Dad suggested to me that we should make our own film through IMUS Films. He knows we had to help a lot of industry people, the stunt men, people who work behind the camera. Rhian here is a police officer while I play a PDEA agent. My last appearance was in My Binondo Girl, guestings in a few MMFF movies. Dondon Santos and I have worked in Pepeng Agimat and we enjoyed working together, this is three different stories in one movie. Lovi and I are good friends, I also worked easily with Rhian, my Mom also worked here as my Mom so everyone is working together. This film is my Dad’s idea and we made it for him and the Filipino people. As a son we love him very much, he gave his all, his name too.”

“His advice to us (his dad Bong), is be humble and not to forget those who have helped us. My heart is fine. I am very involved in production, we have discussions about it and do get conflicted in some decisions. My brothers and I are different, I think we have done remarkable in these three instalments, it was all my Dad’s idea. So now we have equal exposure, different perspectives. From an agent, the victims, the police and the drug addicts. Bryan will be with Carla Humphries and Luigi will be paired with Myrtle Sarroza.”

Jolo adds “All I can say is that I have the highest respects for Jodi, I treasure each and every moment we spent together. I miss showbusiness, memorizing scripts, it goes to say I can let out my feelings. I miss acting and I am thankful I get to work with the crew, I miss this all. As for the budget, I guess I have balanced it well. We are here for my Mom, so we take care of our family, our people in Cavite, if you see us weak my Dad would be sad, so this is the reason you see us all strong. I wish for my Dad’s freedom of course.”

“My Lolo is an icon, my Dad too, so doing this is of course so much pressure for me. This is something we have worked on for years. My brother Luigi has done programs in the past, but this is his first time to do a film. He’s very promising. We did this all with very lengthy pre production and divided the work between ourselves. Each episode maybe took 13 shooting days, but this was all prepared last year. The scenes here are very risky, we got wounds, bruises, some accidents. We used real cars, sets, as I’m not into graphics that much. It also looks more realistic, I am happy we’re doing action films once again. We need this push to bring back the genre we all used to love. In the eve of Buybust, the one with Erich, Coco and other films which recently have acclaim, we’re doing this.”

This film will be distributed by Star Cinema + Cine Screen and will be shown on October 3, 2018. This is again produced by IMUS Productions. I'll tell you more about it when the screening happens a few weeks from now.

Chill!

KUMAGCOW

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Marian Rivera's Back In Action Fantasy Series SUPER MA'AM

Marian Rivera is still the Queen of GMA. She's back and she's not holding back after a long break of bearing super cute daughter Zia with hunk husband Dingdong Dantes. Her entry does come at an opportune time because it's Teacher's Month and what great way to pay homage to our second parents but to do a superhero show that includes her in the title role. 

This September 18, you'll be happy to see SUPER MA'AM. The show includes Kapuso stars Andrew Gan, Shyr Valdez, Enrico Cuenca, Ashley Ortega, Jerald Napoles, Joyce Ching, Julius Erasga, Jillian Ward, Helen Gamboa, Kim Domingo, Al Tantay, Jackie Lou Blanco, Kristoffer Martin, Matthias Rhoads, Meg Imperial and Kevin Santos. This ensemble cast will make the life of teacher Minerva interesting as she tries to make the lives of her students better, because she believes they do deserve a better life.

Some of my favorite people in the loveteam world, yes it's Joyce Ching and Kristoffer Martin.

Asia's Fantasy, Kim Domingo, we got to talk to her about the show.

Ms. Helen Gamboa

Marian Rivera for her new project SUPER MA'AM!

Here, she was able to tell us the three SUPER MA'AM's in her life

I was able to talk to some of them after the reveal, so meet the guy from the Jollibee commercial who got the girl. Matthias Rhoads.

He was dubbed as the next Primetime Kapuso Leading Man. He was ecstatic hearing that!

Oh and ladies, meet Enrico Cuenca. He was the guy in the CRUSH episode of the Jollibee commercial. Remember the one that was secretly giving burgers? Exactly!

We got to talk to him too!

Now make sure to watch this next week! It'll be a fun evening of action and fantasy with Marian's show and Dingdong's Alyas Robinhood. Now if only their daughter would star in the next timeslot, that would be a great few hours of family binge watching.

KUMAGCOW

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