BUM-SPOT

The Bench 2012 Summer Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 01:51:00 +0000

If there is anything that Bench does best, it is serving their products scorching hot. That's why summer is never complete until Bench releases their summer ad campaigns. This year, is no exception. Here is a look at some the hottest stars in the industry baring in the sun. Featured above is my personal favorite from this year's set.

Mamma Mia captivates Manila

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:51:00 +0000

If the opening night is any indication of how the Manila run of Mamma Mia would be like, I would say that audiences can expect a very enjoyable and irresistible show. Be sure to leave your inhibitions home and pack that inner dancing queen in you as the show will definitely bring it out like it did the gala audiences that broke into simultaneous dancing and sing-along before the show ended.

The international cast is led by Sara Poyzer that plays Donna Sheridan. Poyzer has performed in hit shows like Othello, Billy Elliot – The Musical, and Merchant of Venice. Donna's spirited daughter, Sophie Sheridan, is played by Charlotte Wakefield who was nominated for Best Actress in a Musical at the 2010 Laurence Olivier awards.

The group has previously performed in Dubai, Germany, Sweden, Prague, New Zealand, Turkey, China, and Tapei. In the UK, they became the highest grossing musical the New Castle Metro Radio Arena has ever hosted and has sold over £1 million worth of tickets in the first fortnight at the Bristol Hypodrome.

The production features 22 Of Abba’s Hits Including: Dancing Queen, I Have A Dream, Knowing Me, Knowing You, The Winner Takes It All and the hilarious rendition of Chiquitita.

If you are concerned about comparisons with the film, this is an entirely different experience. This will not make you feel like a mere spectator. This feels like an awesome party that you are actually invited to. So grab your tickets now and join in on the fun.

TICKETING INFORMATION

Weekday rates are priced at P750, P1500, P3000, P4000, P5000, and P6000; including shows on Sundays, 8pm. Weekend matinee rates are P1000, P2000, P3500, P5000, P6000, and P7000. Show runs from January 24-February 19, 2012. *Click here to get a chance to win tickets for the February 5th show via angsariwako.com.

For special promos, log onto www.ticketworld.com.ph or call Ticketworld at 891-9999. (Photo courtesy of Brinkhoff-Moegenburg, Germany)

*Thank you for the front row seats c/o broadwayworld.com, Oliver Oliveros, Jude Cartalaba and the producers of the show.

KC's Rogue cover decoded

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:40:00 +0000

What do you do after a break-up? 1. You cut your hair short and then 2. You go have a (sexy) pictorial. This is exactly what KC Concepcion did and you just have to pick up the latest issue of Rogue to see just how sexy she can be.

Of course people would have a take on what a spread like this means. This is one interpretation I picked up at twitter. Some netizen took time to decode the now controversial cover of KC that is being linked to her recent break-up with actor, Piolo Pascual.

Personally, I don't love the cover. There is something awkward about that pose. But I like the fierce new look and the attitude that it exudes.

The Sound of Music extends run until May 27, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 01:59:00 +0000

The successful staging of the world's most beloved musical starring London-based actress, Joanna Ampil, extends its run until ~~February 12, 2012~~ May 27, 2012 at Resorts World Manila (as per @rwmanila twitter account 01252012) .

On the press conference held last January 6, new cast members were announced. Ariel Rivera (1896, Rama at Sita) joins the cast as Captain von Trapp alternating with Audie Gemora and Jon Joven; Leo Martinez (Equus) plays Max Detweiler (Miguel Faustmann and Robbie Guevara as alternate actors); Sheila Valderrama (Wedding Singer, Sweet Charity) plays Baroness Elsa Schraeder; and Fred Lo (Rent, N.O.A.H.) plays Rolf (Marvin Ong as alternate actor). Accomplished theater actress and singer, Cris Villonco alternates as Maria.

For more information, please visit www.rwmanila.com. For ticket inquiries and reservations, visit Ticketworld outlet or call at (632) 811-9999 or also call Resorts World Manila Box Office at (632) 836-6333; 908-8833.

See more photos here.
See this featured at broadwayworld.com, updated feature, Fred Lo feature.
See this featured at philippineparadisepages.com, updated feature.

Oscars 2012 complete list of nominees

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:32:00 +0000

Here is the complete list of nominees for the 84th Annual Academy Awards

Best Picture

“The Artist” (The Weinstein Company) A La Petite Reine/Studio 37/La Classe Américaine/JD Prod/France3 Cinéma/Jouror Productions/uFilm Production, Thomas Langmann, Producer
“The Descendants” (Fox Searchlight) An Ad Hominem Enterprises Production, Jim Burke, Alexander Payne and Jim Taylor, Producers
“Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” (Warner Bros.) A Warner Bros. Pictures Production, Scott Rudin, Producer
“The Help” (Touchstone) A DreamWorks Pictures Production, Brunson Green, Chris Columbus and Michael Barnathan, Producers
“Hugo” (Paramount) A Paramount Pictures and GK Films Production, Graham King and Martin Scorsese, Producers
“Midnight in Paris” (Sony Pictures Classics) A Pontchartrain Production, Letty Aronson and Stephen Tenenbaum, Producers
“Moneyball” (Sony Pictures Releasing) A Columbia Pictures Production, Michael De Luca, Rachael Horovitz and Brad Pitt, Producers
“The Tree of Life” (Fox Searchlight) A River Road Entertainment Production, Nominees to be determined
“War Horse” (Touchstone) A DreamWorks Pictures Production, Steven Spielberg and Kathleen Kennedy, Producers

Directing

“The Artist” (The Weinstein Company) Michel Hazanavicius
“The Descendants” (Fox Searchlight) Alexander Payne
“Hugo” (Paramount) Martin Scorsese
“Midnight in Paris” (Sony Pictures Classics) Woody Allen
“The Tree of Life” (Fox Searchlight) Terrence Malick

Actor in a Leading Role

Demián Bichir in “A Better Life” (Summit Entertainment)
George Clooney in “The Descendants” (Fox Searchlight)
Jean Dujardin in “The Artist” (The Weinstein Company)
Gary Oldman in “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” (Focus Features)
Brad Pitt in “Moneyball” (Sony Pictures Releasing)

Actor in a Supporting Role

Kenneth Branagh in “My Week with Marilyn” (The Weinstein Company)
Jonah Hill in “Moneyball” (Sony Pictures Releasing)
Nick Nolte in “Warrior” (Lionsgate)
Christopher Plummer in “Beginners” (Focus Features)
Max von Sydow in “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” (Warner Bros.)

Actress in a Leading Role

Glenn Close in “Albert Nobbs” (Roadside Attractions)
Viola Davis in “The Help” (Touchstone)
Rooney Mara in “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (Sony Pictures Releasing)
Meryl Streep in “The Iron Lady” (The Weinstein Company)
Michelle Williams in “My Week with Marilyn” (The Weinstein Company)

Actress in a Supporting Role

Bérénice Bejo in “The Artist” (The Weinstein Company)
Jessica Chastain in “The Help” (Touchstone)
Melissa McCarthy in “Bridesmaids” (Universal)
Janet McTeer in “Albert Nobbs” (Roadside Attractions)
Octavia Spencer in “The Help” (Touchstone)

Animated Feature Film

“A Cat in Paris” (GKIDS) Alain Gagnol and Jean-Loup Felicioli
“Chico & Rita” (GKIDS) Fernando Trueba and Javier Mariscal
“Kung Fu Panda 2” (DreamWorks Animation, Distributed by Paramount)
Jennifer Yuh Nelson
“Puss in Boots” (DreamWorks Animation, Distributed by Paramount) Chris Miller
“Rango” (Paramount) Gore Verbinski

Foreign Language Film

“Bullhead” A Savage Film Production, Belgium
“Footnote” (Sony Pictures Classics) A Footnote Limited Partnership
Production, Israel
“In Darkness” (Sony Pictures Classics) A Studio Filmowe Zebra Production, Poland
“Monsieur Lazhar” (Music Box Films) A micro_scope Production, Canada
“A Separation” (Sony Pictures Classics) A Dreamlab Films Production, Iran

Writing (Adapted Screenplay)

“The Descendants” (Fox Searchlight) Screenplay by Alexander Payne and Nat Faxon & Jim Rash
“Hugo” (Paramount) Screenplay by John Logan
“The Ides of March” (Sony Pictures Releasing) Screenplay by George Clooney & Grant Heslov and Beau Willimon
“Moneyball” (Sony Pictures Releasing) Screenplay by Steven Zaillian and Aaron Sorkin Story by Stan Chervin
“Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” (Focus Features) Screenplay by Bridget O’Connor & Peter Straughan

Writing (Original Screenplay)

“The Artist” (The Weinstein Company) Written by Michel Hazanavicius
“Bridesmaids” (Universal) Written by Annie Mumolo & Kristen Wiig
“Margin Call” (Roadside Attractions) Written by J.C. Chandor
“Midnight in Paris” (Sony Pictures Classics) Written by Woody Allen
“A Separation” (Sony Pictures Classics) Written by Asghar Farhadi

Art Direction

“The Artist” (The Weinstein Company) Production Design: Laurence Bennett, Set Decoration: Robert Gould
“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2” (Warner Bros.) Production Design: Stuart Craig, Set Decoration: Stephenie McMillan
“Hugo” (Paramount) Production Design: Dante Ferretti, Set Decoration: Francesca Lo Schiavo
“Midnight in Paris” (Sony Pictures Classics) Production Design: Anne Seibel, Set Decoration: Hélène Dubreuil
“War Horse” (Touchstone) Production Design: Rick Carter, Set Decoration: Lee Sandales

Cinematography

“The Artist” (The Weinstein Company) Guillaume Schiffman
“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (Sony Pictures Releasing) Jeff Cronenweth
“Hugo” (Paramount) Robert Richardson
“The Tree of Life” (Fox Searchlight) Emmanuel Lubezki
“War Horse” (Touchstone) Janusz Kaminski

Costume Design

“Anonymous” (Sony Pictures Releasing) Lisy Christl
“The Artist” (The Weinstein Company) Mark Bridges
“Hugo” (Paramount) Sandy Powell
“Jane Eyre” (Focus Features) Michael O’Connor
“W.E.” (The Weinstein Company) Arianne Phillips

Documentary (Feature)

“Hell and Back Again” (Docurama Films) A Roast Beef Limited Production, Danfung Dennis and Mike Lerner
“If a Tree Falls: A Story of the Earth Liberation Front” (Oscilloscope Laboratories) A Marshall Curry Production, Marshall Curry and Sam Cullman
“Paradise Lost 3: Purgatory” An @radical.media Production, Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky
“Pina” (Sundance Selects) A Neue Road Movies Production, Wim Wenders and Gian-Piero Ringel
“Undefeated” (The Weinstein Company) A Spitfire Pictures Production, TJ Martin, Dan Lindsay and Richard Middlemas

Documentary (Short Subject)

“The Barber of Birmingham: Foot Soldier of the Civil Rights Movement” A Purposeful Production, Robin Fryday and Gail Dolgin
“God Is the Bigger Elvis” A Documentress Films Production, Rebecca Cammisa and Julie Anderson
“Incident in New Baghdad” A Morninglight Films Production, James Spione
“Saving Face” A Milkhaus/Jungefilm Production, Daniel Junge and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy
“The Tsunami and the Cherry Blossom” A Supply & Demand Integrated Production, Lucy Walker and Kira Carstensen

Film Editing

“The Artist” (The Weinstein Company) Anne-Sophie Bion and Michel Hazanavicius
“The Descendants” (Fox Searchlight) Kevin Tent
“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (Sony Pictures Releasing) Kirk Baxter and Angus Wall
“Hugo” (Paramount) Thelma Schoonmaker
“Moneyball” (Sony Pictures Releasing) Christopher Tellefsen

Makeup

“Albert Nobbs” (Roadside Attractions) Martial Corneville, Lynn Johnston and Matthew W. Mungle
“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2” (Warner Bros.) Nick Dudman, Amanda Knight and Lisa Tomblin
“The Iron Lady” (The Weinstein Company) Mark Coulier and J. Roy Helland

Music (Original Score)

“The Adventures of Tintin” (Paramount) John Williams
“The Artist” (The Weinstein Company) Ludovic Bource
“Hugo” (Paramount) Howard Shore
“Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” (Focus Features) Alberto Iglesias
“War Horse” (Touchstone) John Williams

Music (Original Song)

“Man or Muppet” from “The Muppets” (Walt Disney) Music and Lyric by Bret McKenzie
“Real in Rio” from “Rio” (20th Century Fox) Music by Sergio Mendes and Carlinhos Brown, Lyric by Siedah Garrett

Short Film (Animated)

“Dimanche/Sunday” (National Film Board of Canada) A National Film Board of Canada Production, Patrick Doyon
“The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore” A Moonbot Studios LA Production, William Joyce and Brandon Oldenburg
“La Luna” (Walt Disney) A Pixar Animation Studios Production, Enrico Casarosa
“A Morning Stroll” (Studio AKA) A Studio AKA Production, Grant Orchard and Sue Goffe
“Wild Life” (National Film Board of Canada) A National Film Board of Canada Production, Amanda Forbis and Wendy Tilby

Short Film (Live Action)

“Pentecost” (Network Ireland Television) An EMU Production, Peter McDonald and Eimear O’Kane
“Raju” A Hamburg Media School/Filmwerkstatt Production, Max Zähle and Stefan Gieren
“The Shore” An All Ashore Production, Terry George and Oorlagh George
“Time Freak” A Team Toad Production, Andrew Bowler and Gigi Causey
“Tuba Atlantic” (Norsk Filminstitutt) A Norwegian Film School/Den Norske Filmskolen Production, Hallvar Witzø

Sound Editing

“Drive” (FilmDistrict) Lon Bender and Victor Ray Ennis
“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (Sony Pictures Releasing) Ren Klyce
“Hugo” (Paramount) Philip Stockton and Eugene Gearty
“Transformers: Dark of the Moon” (Paramount) Ethan Van der Ryn and Erik Aadahl
“War Horse” (Touchstone) Richard Hymns and Gary Rydstrom

Sound Mixing

“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (Sony Pictures Releasing) David Parker, Michael Semanick, Ren Klyce and Bo Persson
“Hugo” (Paramount) Tom Fleischman and John Midgley
“Moneyball” (Sony Pictures Releasing) Deb Adair, Ron Bochar, Dave Giammarco and Ed Novick
“Transformers: Dark of the Moon” (Paramount) Greg P. Russell, Gary Summers, Jeffrey J. Haboush and Peter J. Devlin
“War Horse” (Touchstone) Gary Rydstrom, Andy Nelson, Tom Johnson and Stuart Wilson

Visual Effects

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2” (Warner Bros.) Tim Burke, David Vickery, Greg Butler and John Richardson
“Hugo” (Paramount) Rob Legato, Joss Williams, Ben Grossman and Alex Henning
“Real Steel” (Touchstone) Erik Nash, John Rosengrant, Dan Taylor and Swen Gillberg
“Rise of the Planet of the Apes” (20th Century Fox) Joe Letteri, Dan Lemmon, R. Christopher White and Daniel Barrett
“Transformers: Dark of the Moon” (Paramount) Scott Farrar, Scott Benza, Matthew Butler and John Frazier

Soon at Abs-Cbn: Nang Dahil sa Pag-Ibig

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:09:00 +0000

January 23, 2012. ABS-CBN announces the biggest gathering of their most bankable stars in Nang Dahil sa Pag-Ibig.

Piolo Pascual, Jericho Rosales, Christine Reyes and Maricar Reyes head a stellar cast in what is expected to be a primetime leader in the country's leading network. Soon at ABS-CBN. (Photos by Dale Bacar)

BWW Philippines Awards announces winners

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 04:04:00 +0000

January 22, 2012 MLA. Broadwayworld.com announces the winners of the first ever BWW Philippines Awards. The online poll which ran from November 3rd to December 31st 2011 aims to give recognition to theater practitioners in the country.

Among the winners are:

Best Leading Actress (Musical)
Nikki Gil - Sweet Charity - 9 Works Theatrical

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role/Ensemble Role (Musical)
OJ Mariano - Rent - 9 Works Theatrical

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role/Ensemble Role (Musical)
Ciara Sotto - Sweet Charity - 9 Works Theatrical

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role/Ensemble Role (Play)
Cris Villonco - The Joy Luck Club - Repertory Philippines

Best Leading Actor (Musical)
Vince Tañada - Cory ng Edsa - Philippine Stagers Foundation

Best Leading Actor (Play)
Martin Delos Santos - Ang Post Office - PETA

Best Leading Actress (Play)
Shamaine Buencamino - Fake - UP Playwrights' Theater

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role/Ensemble Role (Play)
Jeremy Domingo - American Hwangap - Tanghalang Pilipino

Aliw Awards winner for Best Musical, Cory ng Edsa, swept the polls and bagged the awards for Best Musical, Actor, Director, Choreography, Costume, Musical Direction, Set and Sound Design.

9 Works Theatrical is named Best Theater Company and Resorts World Manila, the Best Theatrical Venue.

Click here to see the complete list of awards.

A Mother's Story

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 04:29:00 +0000

The one movie to catch this week. It was also Graded A by the Cinema Evaluation Board but since this is the same board that gave an A Rating to the horrible MMFF Film, Segunda Mano, I would rely more on the credible preview. Hoping it would deliver.

Winners announced at philippineparadisepages.com photo tilt

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:07:00 +0000

Still on the subject of photography, it is always nice to get validated. This year, my entry on the first ever photography contest of philippineparadisepages.com won top honors. This was judged by user votes and also by a PPP panel.

The objective of the contest is to promote beautiful places that can be found in the Philippines and help boost the country’s tourism industry. Click here to check out the website.

Sophia Abella reveals all at UK's new! Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 15:26:00 +0000

Model: Sophia Abella
Photos by: Dale Bacar

UK based publication, new! Magazine used this set of sultry Sophia Abella in one of their feature stories. The revealing, tell-all article was released late last year in this popular celebrity gossip mag.

Check out my photography site at http://www.dalebacar.com.

Inked

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 12:45:00 +0000

Model: Carlos Ramil Benigla
Photo by: Dale Bacar

When I started taking photos, they were mainly of sexy male subjects. This year, we are bringing the sexy theme back, starting with this set featuring Carlos Ramil Benigla. Will post the rest of this set soon.

Also, please check out my photography site at http://www.dalebacar.com.

Repertory Philippines presents Next Fall

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 22:11:00 +0000

NEXT FALL, A TRAGIC/COMIC LOOK AT A MODERN ODD COUPLE SET TO OPEN ON JANUARY 13, 2012.

After producing more than 900 plays and musicals through 74 seasons, Repertory Philippines proudly ushers its 45th year this 2012 with its first production titled “ Next Fall ”. Written by playwright Geoffrey Nauffts, “ Next Fall ” is a very moving story of Luke and Adam, a gay couple agonizing over differences in their religious faiths. The play portrays the ups and downs of this unlikely couple’s five-year relationship with sharp humor and unflinching honesty.And when an accident changes everything, Adam must turn to Luke’s family and friends for support and answers.

" Next Fall " paints a beautiful and funny portrait of modern romance, asking the hard questions about commitment and faith. But ultimately, simply, it is about the transformative power of love.

The play takes place between 2000 and 2005 in New York City. The present narrative takes place in a hospital waiting room where Adam, Brandon, Holly and Luke’s parents have gathered after he is hit by a runaway cab. Interspersed with these chronological scenes are flashback scenes showing how Luke and Adam met, fell in love and constructed a life together with the final flashback occurring the day before Luke’s accident.

Luke is a devout born-again Christian, which creates tension in his relationship with Adam and in his friendships with Brandon and Holly, and leads him to hide both his homosexuality and his relationship with Adam from his equally devout parents. In the present narrative in the hospital, Adam, Brandon, Holly and Luke’s parents deal with the fallout from these conflicts and secrets, while also struggling to understand what it means to be faithful in the face of the immense unpredictability and fragility of human life.

“ Next Fall ” is a romantic comedy, a tragedy, a family drama, an issue play, and a coming-of-age story. Whichever path you take into “ Next Fall” — the notion of faith is central to the experience.

“ Next Fall ” won the 2010 John Gassner Award for Geoffrey Nauffts. In the same year, the play was also nominated for the Drama Desk Awards --- Outstanding Play; Tony Awards --- Best Play; Outer Critics Circle Awards --- Outstanding New Broadway Play.

The powerhouse cast will feature noted theater thespian Bart Guingona as Adam, a committed cynic, atheist and hypochondriac. As an actor he has essayed roles as varied as Oedipus, Hamlet, Mitch Albom (Tuesdays with Morrie), Charlie Brown. As a director, he is known for his eclectic selection of material: everything from the classics (Shakespeare) to the contemporary (Rabe’s Hurlyburly).

David Bianco will play the role of Luke, Adam’s boyfriend, a bornagain Christian and aspiring actor. David hails from Michigan and this is his first foray in the local theatre scene. Liesl Batucan will essay the role of Holly, Adam’s fag hag best friend and owner of the candle shop where both Adam and Luke work. Liesl has appeared in Sweeney Todd (for which she won the Philstage Gawad Buhay Award for Best Female Featured Actress in a Musical), A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino (which won for her the Aliw Award for Best Stage Actress), I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, Company, Romeo and Juliet and many others.

Niccolo Manahan plays Brandon, Luke’s friend, a property manager. Like Luke he is both gay and a born-again Christian. Niccolo’s theatre credits include Hamlet, Love’s Labours’ Lost, Fiddler on the Roof, I Love

You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, Man of La Mancha, The Taming of the Shrew among others.

Juno Henares plays Arlene, Luke’s mother, a former wild child who has since settled in to middle aged eccentricity. Juno recently appeared in Moose Murders, Romeo and Bernadette and Jack and the Beanstalk. Miguel Faustmann shall play the role of Butch, Luke’s father and Arlene’s ex-husband, a deeply religious man. Some of Miguel’s theater credits include Equus, The Sound of Music, Fiddler on the Roof, The Merchant of Venice, Les Miserables, Man of La Mancha, The Woman in Black, Visiting Mr. Green and Tuesdays with Morrie.

Veteran actor / director Audie Gemora will direct the play. This is Audie’s third directorial job for Repertory Philippines (the first two were The Fantastiks and Equus). He was seen recently in The Sound of Music, Man of La Mancha, A Christmas Carol and Sweeney Todd where he won as Best Lead Actor in a Musical for the Philstage Gawad Buhay Awards.

“ Next Fall ” is bound to be the funniest heartbreaker in town !!!! It embodies something theatergoers have been sorely missing, perhaps without knowing it, for years. Co-presented by the City of Makati, Enderun Colleges and Bellaroca Island Resort and Spa “ Next Fall ” shall run from JANUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 5, 2012 with shows on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and matinee shows on Saturdays and Sundays at 3:30 p.m. All performances are at Onstage, Greenbelt 1, Makati City.

The artistic and creative team of “ Next Fall ” is led by Baby Barredo (Artistic Director), Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo (Associate Artistic Director), John Batalla (Lighting Designer) and Denis Lagdameo (Set Designer). The production staff is composed of Gidget Tolentino (Production Manager), Ayam Barredo (Company Manager), Dingdong Rosales (Stage Manager), Pol Roxas (Sound Technician), Pablito Salvador (Lighting Technician) and Adul Lasin (Set Execution and Scenic Artist).

The marketing, sales and publicity of “ Next Fall ” is led by Toots Tolentino (PR & Publicity) with Rem Zamora, Ayam Barredo and Oliver Usison (PR & Publicity, Marketing), Marie Talay and Rose Silva (Marketing & Sales) and Dave Fabros (Photography).

For tickets, inquiries and other information, call Repertory Philippines at 571-6926 or 571-4941 or email info@repertory.ph. Tickets are also available thru Ticketworld at 891-9999 or www.ticketworld.com.ph. Visit www.repertory.ph, subscribe to youtube.com/repertoryphils, and add “Rep Phils” in Facebook.

“ Next Fall ” is brought to you by the following sponsors: Ayala Malls, Business World, Ticketworld, Manila Bulletin, Her Word.com, Click the City.com, Lane Moving and Storage, Dot.ph, 105.1 Crossover, Jam 88.3 and Yehey.com.

“ NEXT FALL ” is presented by special arrangement with Creative Artists Agency. (Text and photo from Next Fall PR - Toots Tolentino.)

MMFF 2011 Box-Office Results (Updated)

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 20:01:00 +0000

Here is the reported box office result from the first day of screening at the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival. (MMFF)

Updated Results as of January 1, 2012 (via MMDA/Scoopbox/Mell Navarro)

1. Enteng Ng Ina Mo - P183,213,717.35
2. Segunda Mano - P94,629,812.45
3. Panday 2 - P86,316,624.55
4. My Househusband - P42,587,787.58
5. Shake Rattle & Roll 13 - P41,935,473.35
6. Asiong Salonga - P31,781,973.55
7. Yesterday Today Tomorrow - P7,359,070.85.
_______

Box Office Results as of 10:00 PM (December 25)

1. Enteng Ng Ina Mo - ~~32 million~~ 38.5 million
2. Ang Panday 2 - ~~20 million~~ 28 million
3. Segunda Mano - 18.25 million
4. My Househusband - 17.33 million
5. Shake Rattle & Roll 13 - 15.9 million
6. Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow - 10.1 million
7. Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story - 3 million

As of the first day of screening, there has been unconfirmed reports that some cinemas have pulled out Asiong Salonga because of the Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) issued by the Intellectual Property Rights Office as answer to complaints posted by the film's director, Tikoy Aguiluz. The producers insisted that showing will push through but the name of Aguiluz as director will be stricken as requested.

Meanwhile, positive reviews have been posted online on horror films' Segunda Mano and Shake, Rattle and Roll as well as the family comedy, My Househusband.

GMA's line-up of shows for 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 12:27:00 +0000

I am not a fan of most GMA shows but they always come up with the best preview of their annual line-up. This year is no exception. Kudos.

Breaking News tonight. Ram Revilla Scandal, Tyron Perez Suicide

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 14:08:00 +0000

A sex video scandal featuring recently murdered Ram Revilla and his girlfriend was posted on Facebook. While the video was already taken down, several copies are already circulating over the web.

As with any other scandal uploaded, it would be virtually impossible to remove traces of this.

Update: As of 01042012, GMA News Tweets: "Tatlong kapatid ni Ramgen, kakasuhan ni Janelle dahil sa lumabas na ‘sex’ video." This actually makes a lot of sense as nobody should have access to this apart from the guy's family or the police.

_______________________________________________________________________

The other twitter breaking news for the night is the supposed suicide of another Starstruck alumnus, Tyron Perez. The young sexy actor was found dead in his car in Valenzuela. Click here to read PEP's interview with Tyron's wife.

Director Tikoy Aguiluz airs frustration over Asiong Salonga

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 00:19:00 +0000

Click to enlarge

Master Auteur Tikoy Aguiluz aired his frustration on the apparent desecration of his work on one of the more anticipated films this MMFF, Asiong Salonga.

Resident critic Philbert Dy of clickthecity.com posted a review on Asiong Salonga, pointing out how the film has "beautiful imagery" but does not have "enough connective tissue to make them anything more than a series of random vignettes." This all points back to the contested right of Aguiluz to oversee post-production of the film which the producers, one of whom is the film's lead, disregarded.

Aguiluz has then filed a petition to have his name stricken as director of the film. The Intellectual Property Rights Office granted this request and issued a Temporary Restraining Order on December 23rd.

Aguiluz has requested for the director's cut to be released and a corresponding petition is posted here. Click the link to sign the petition.

Bum-Spot picks for MMFF 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 07:44:00 +0000

~~1. Asiong Salonga: Manila Kingpin~~

This could have been my number 1 pick for the year. I could care less about ER Ejercito playing the title role, but I was interested to see the work of master auteur, Tikoy Aguiluz. Days after the release of this awesome trailer, news circulated that Aguiluz wanted his name stricken from the movie. There was an apparent misunderstanding between him and the film's producers (ER Ejercito, Viva Films, Scenema Concepts) which led to additional scenes being shot without the knowledge and presence of the director. He also was not involved in the film’s “reedit, re-shoot and music mixing.

Of course this could still turn out good given the material that Aguiluz has already provided. But as show of respect for the auteur that had his work desecrated, I refuse to watch this until the director's cut is released. An online petition is also spearheaded by Cinephiles for this. Click here to support and sign the petition.

2. With Asiong Salonga out of the list, my first choice now lands on My Househusband. This tells of the reversal of the society imposed role on husband and wife where the man should be the provider and the wife should be staying at home to watch the kids.

This brings back the credible trio of Judy Anne Santos, Ryan Agoncillo and writer/director Jose Javier Reyes. Joining in the fun is perennial funny lady, Eugene Domingo.

A few years back, after watching Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo, I sent a message to all of my friends telling them that they have to see the film which is one of the more honest and insightful movies made on relationships. I am looking forward to more of the same in this latest installment.

3. My third choice is not exactly Best Picture material nor something that aims to improve the state of Philippine Cinema. It is however a fun gathering of two of the biggest franchise in MMFF history. While you can already expect the same brand of humor and shameful posting of advertising in this movie, it should still reflect its uniform message of family and love with a dash of magic that is always a needed ingredient in a holiday season.
___________________________Extras
4. Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow
So far, it has an unimpressive trailer. It would be nice to see if Maricel Soriano is back in her game though after a troublesome year that involved the supposed beating of two maids and drug abuse. Will wait for initial reviews from credible folks before considering this one.
5. Shake, Rattle and Roll (insert number here)
There may be something promising here as soon as I read that Chris Martinez directed one of the episodes. Will probably watch this as well if time permits.
6. Segunda Mano
By now there should be no doubt that Kris Aquino and acting do not blend well together. The movie is rated A by the Cinema Evaluation Board though so that makes this movie, at the very least, intriguing.
7. Panday 2. This is a copyright case waiting to happen. Generally, copying costumes, moves and even monsters is no longer uncommon. It becomes acceptable (?) only though if 1. You took the general elements and improved on them and 2. You are making a spoof and are making fun of the fact that you have these elements in your film. Neither is the case in Panday, which presents itself as a serious movie. That is the problem right there considering that you cannot even take the lead seriously on or off camera.

On shameful acts

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 07:01:00 +0000

Still on the subject of customer service, the call center industry in the Philippines was rocked a few days ago by the posting of this video by some unapologetic agent. He apparently thought that it would be amusing to make fun of his customers, making a video of it and even proudly posting it online at the risk of jeopardizing the company that he works/ed for and even the industry as a whole.

While I strongly support that this agent should be banned from all other centers including homebased ones, and that any overlooked application of his should be reported immediately, let me digress.

While browsing comments made on this YouTube video, I can't help but notice how some of the attacks automatically turned into name-calling and homophobic remarks. It is as if people (supposedly educated) automatically think that the explanation as to why he acted this way is because he is gay.

Come to think of it, nobody would say, "Bobo sa ingles, gago, tarantado at STRAIGHT NA LALAKI pa," or "Hope you don't get a slot on the BPO industry anymore Straight Girl!" Even if that was indeed the case. For some reason, being called gay is still as bad as being called "gago" or "tanga" in this country.

I, too, was quick to judge that this guy in the video is probably the worst being in the country right now. But putting what he did and the comments made against him side by side, now I am confused as to what is the more shameful act.

Worst Customer Service of the Year

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 11:49:00 +0000

I was never a fan of Chic-Boy. I think their Cebu-lechon liempo is overrated and tastes nothing like the real Cebu lechon that I tried. Their chicken oil looks and tastes diluted unlike the one served in competitor, Mang Inasal. Some of my friends like it there though, but until that day when a customer posted a complaint about them, they were just another restaurant that I could care less about.

Having worked in the customer service industry, the cardinal rule you learn is when customers make a complaint, you apologize first, then empathize and then do the necessary investigation. You do not challenge their complaint especially when they are fuming mad and you NEVER call the police on them.

This entire issue could have been avoided had the stupid manager handling that particular branch simply apologized. He/she could have thrown in a free umbrella or a gift certificate and voila, problem solved. Even the customer said so in her letter, "Sabi ko."alam niyo, kung kayo nag SORRY nalang hindi na siguro nangyari yung ganito!" papano, ang yayabang pa, napaka defensive kagad. hindi aminin ang mali! sabi ng pulis.."mam, di pa ho ba sila nagsorry?" sabi ko "hinde!!!inexplain niyo lang naman sa akin ang tungkol sa pagnenegosyo, kung papano dinedeliver ang mga gulay niyo at kung papano niyo pinapatakbo ang chickboy!!!"…."

Read complete complaint letter here.

If all that wasn't enough, Chic-Boy management filed a libel case against complainant, Sigrid Andrea P. Bernardo, claiming that the complaint is nothing more than a demolition job from the competitor. To quote, "To all our Patrons, Franchisees and employees, thank you for your comment of support and advises to file a libel case against the writer. We will definitely file a Libel case. We just had to finish our complaint affidavit for filing with the fiscal office. We will definitely not take this sitting down." - Chic-Boy statement released via GMA News Online.

At this point, Mang Inasal should be laughing their asses off. As a customer, I could forgive the fact that a caterpillar accidentally got cooked along with my food, this is hardly rare. I had an experience in Shakey's once where there was a cockroach lodged at the bottom of a pitcher of Pepsi that was already consumed by everyone in my party but we were pacified and opted to let the matter go. That was way yuckier. It all boils back to customer service skills. We all know that shit happens, whether to forgive that or not, depends entirely on how you were handled. That said, Chic-Boy just made the worst move from a customer service point of view. It goes without saying that I am among those that would never set foot in that restaurant again.

Ang Paskong Filipino

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 02:30:00 +0000

Every year, Christmas means a showcase of Station ID's from competing local networks. Each tries to present a timely state of the Filipino or a prevalent culture that the network wants to impart.

This year, the clear winner is ABS-CBN's Da Best ang Pasko ng Pilipino.

It has become a tradition for ABS-CBN to come up with a heart-tugging presentation, this year's ID is no different.

Da Best ang Pasko takes on the sacrifices of Filipino Overseas Workers, the joys they are missing by spending Christmas away from their loved ones and how they cope and make up for it by trying to relive the Filipino Christmas tradition abroad.

In the true sense of being a Kapamilya, the video also shows how Filipinos reach out to each other just to celebrate the season together as well as the rich festivities all around the country.

Coming in 2nd is up-and-coming network, TV5. Showcasing a simple yet effective message, TV5's station ID remains true to its goal of offering alternative programming while getting a serious foothold in the industry by employing some of its biggest stars.

This ID steers clear of any comparison by presenting a much simpler theme. It practically says, "We are fun, we are hip, we have the stars and we are here to stay."

So far the catchiest and the "happiest" theme this season, TV5's Krismas-Mas-Mas Masaya.

Coming in last is GMA7's Kapusong Pasko Na. I really am not sure what they were thinking when they made this series of jingle that, I think, was aimed to be fun but only came off tacky and annoying. I will let the video speak for itself.

Gift Ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 21:18:00 +0000

To prepare for the holidays, World of Warcraft goes on sale up to December 19, 2011. Get a chance to complete your WoW expansion set, get a nifty pet or an awesome looking mount all at 75% off.

If you are a gamer and would want to recruit friends to the game or a non gamer wanting to find out why World of Warcraft has been the reigning MMORPG for the last seven years, this is your chance to do it. Just click here to start shopping.

P.S. If you intend to subscribe or if you have any questions about the game, just shoot me a message.

Rhian Ramos' statement on Mo Twister

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 03:48:00 +0000

Rhian's interview starts at 1.55 mark. Although this feels like a badly acted bit, I think Mo and Rhian are both victims of the decisions made my Rhian's Mother and Manager. Mo said that he approached both for help but they decided that Rhian's career is a priority.

Had they decided instead to step in and put a stop to this, no amount of hard-headedness from the daughter would have made her go through that abortion. All they needed was proper guidance but sadly, the ones that were supposed to provide that guided them instead to a deplorable act (if the accusations are true).

Did She or Didn't She?

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 04:59:00 +0000

Earlier today, the screenshot above has gone viral as Ms Earth representative from the US supposedly posted disparaging remarks against the Philippines. Of course, personally, I do not find it disparaging that she called Willtime Bigtime, ridiculous. I think that part was pretty apt.

As response to the violent but understandable reactions from the citizens of the host country (and perhaps because of fear for her own safety), the candidate posted this Youtube video claiming that somebody else posted the said status.

As there is no actual way of finding out if she is telling the truth or not, what do you guys think?

On a lighter note, please click this link and show some love. ^^

Check out www.dalebacar.com

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 06:34:00 +0000

For rates and services you may contact dalebacar@aol.com or SMS (63) 926 6939389.

OJ Mariano

noreply@blogger.com (Dale Bacar) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 03:58:00 +0000

Photos by Dale Bacar
Poster Layout by OJ Mariano
for DGA Entertainment|Dennis Arce

OJ Mariano is the second runner-up of the second season of ABS-CBN's reality singing competition Star in a Million. After the competition, he released an album under Star Records entitled One Dream Come True. For his first album, he received Awit Awards' 2006 "Best New Male Recording Artist". He was a mainstay singer in ABS-CBN's now defunct game show, The Singing Bee.

OJ is also a theater actor, recently appearing in NineWorks Theatrical's production of RENT and Sweet Charity.