The Intersections & Beyond

PETA's "Haring Lear," an adaptation of William Shakespeare's play (Jan 27-Mar 4, 2012)

2012-01-20T01:46:00.000-08:00

As the first play for 2012, PETA introduces the first-ever Filipino adaptation of William Shakespeare's King Lear. Set in a post-nuclear world that is strangely contemporary and familiar, Shakespeare's King Lear receives a fitting, royal makeover, fashioned by a pool of Filipino theater giants.

Haring Lear will be shown at the PETA Theater Center in Quezon City on January 27 to March 4, 2012.

THE ARTISTIC & CREATIVE TEAM

National Artist for Literature, Bienvenido Lumbera translates the text into prose while retaining the rhythm, texture and elegant brutality of Shakespeare's tragedy. Acclaimed theater director, Nonon Padilla then turns the epic classic into a modern-dress contemporary family drama, while World Stage Design Awardee Gino Gonzales establishes the dark aesthetic, settings and styles of the play.

Exciting, suspenseful and virtually violent, PETA's Haring Lear retains Shakespeare's beautiful and devastating themes of the disintegration of family solidarity, running the gamut of love, madness, death and sacrifice.

THE CAST

'Haring Lear' features a traditional Shakespeare all-male cast helmed by theater stalwart Teroy Guzman who plays the role of the aging monarch, Haring Lear.

Other cast includes: Gary Lim (Regan), Nor Domingo (Goneril), Abner Delina (Cordelia), Jay Gonzaga (Edmundo), Myke Salomon (Edgardo), Jack Yabut (Gloster), Josel Reyes (Kent), George De Jesus (Oswaldo), Jeff Hernandez (Duke ng Cornualles), Renante Bustamante (Duke ng Albanya), Fredyl Hernandez (Duke ng Burgonia), Angel Moratilla (Hari ng Francia) and Ernie Cloma (Matandang Lalaki).

SHOW DATES

January 27 (Fri) - 7pm

January 28 (Sat) - 10am / 3pm

January 29 (Sun) - 10am / 3pm

February 3 (Fri) - 7pm

February 4 (Sat) - 10am / 3pm

February 5 (Sun) - 10am / 3pm

February 10 (Fri) - 7pm

February 11 (Sat) - 10am / 3pm

February 12 (Sun) - 10am / 3pm

February 17 (Fri) - 7pm

February 18 (Sat) - 2pm and 7pm

February 19 (Sun) - 10am / 3pm

February 24 (Fri) - 7pm

February 25 (Sat) - 10am / 3pm

February 26 (Sun) - 10am / 3pm

March 2 (Fri) - 7pm

March 3 (Sat) - 10am / 3pm

March 4 (Sun) - 10am / 3pm

For ticket inquiries, please contact (632) 7256244, 4100821-22, +63.917.5765400. You can also email petatheater@gmail.com or visit their website: www.petatheater.com.

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69th Golden Globe Award Winners & Nominees (2012)

2012-01-17T11:28:00.000-08:00

Photo courtesy of The Inquisitr

The 69th Golden Globe Awards was held on January 15, 2012 at the Beverly Hilton. The awarding rites was hosted by Ricky Gervais.

Here is the complete list of winners and nominees for movies and television:

MOTION PICTURE

Motion Picture, Drama

The Descendants 

The Help 

Hugo 

The Ides of March

 Moneyball

 War Horse

Best Performance By An Actor In A Motion Picture – Drama 

George Clooney, The Descendants

Leonardo DiCaprio, J. Edgar 

Michael Fassbender, Shame 

Ryan Gosling, The Ides of March 

Brad Pitt, Moneyball

Best Motion Picture – Comedy Or Musical 

The Artist  

50/50 

Bridesmaids

 Midnight in Paris

 My Week With Marilyn

Best Performance By An Actress In A Motion Picture – Drama

 Meryl Streep, The Iron Lady 

Glenn Close, Albert Nobbs 

Viola Davis, The Help 

Rooney Mara, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo

Tilda Swinton, We Need To Talk About Kevin

Best Performance By An Actor In A Motion Picture – Comedy Or Musical

 Jean Dujardin, The Artist 

Brendan Gleeson, The Guard  

Joseph Gordon-Levitt, 50/50 

Ryan Gosling, Crazy, Stupid, Love

 Owen Wilson, Midnight in Paris

Best Director – Motion Picture 

Martin Scorsese, Hugo

 Woody Allen, Midnight in Paris

 George Clooney, The Ides of March  

Michel Hazanvicius, The Artist  

Alexander Payne, The Descendants

Best Performance By An Actress In A Supporting Role In A Motion Picture 

Octavia Spencer, The Help  

Berenice Bejo, The Artist

 Jessica Chastain, The Help  

Janet McTeer, Albert Nobbs  

Shailene Woodley, The Descendants

Best Foreign Language Film 

A Separation (Iran)  

The Flowers of War (China)

 In the Land of Blood and Honey (USA) 

The Kid With A Bike (Belgium)

 The Skin I Live In (Spain)

Best Screenplay – Motion Picture

 Woody Allen, Midnight in Paris  

George Clooney, Grant Heslov, Beau Willimon, The Ides of March

 Michel Hazanavicius, The Artist  

Alexander Payne, Nat Faxon, Jim Rash, The Descendants  

Steven Zaillian, Aaron Sorkin, Moneyball

Best Animated Feature Film 

The Adventures of Tintin 

Arthur Christmas

 Cars 2 

Puss in Boots 

Rango

Best Performance By An Actress in A Motion Picture – Comedy Or Musical 

Michelle Williams, My Week With Marilyn  

Jodie Foster, Carnage  

Charlize Theron, Young Adult

 Kristen Wiig, Bridesmaids

 Kate Winslet, Carnage

Best Original Song – Motion Picture

“Masterpiece” — W.E.

Music & Lyrics by: Madonna, Julie Frost, Jimmy Harry

“Hello Hello” — Gnomeo & Juliet

Music by: Elton John

Lyrics by: Bernie Taupin

“The Keeper” — Machine Gun Preacher

Music & Lyrics by: Chris Cornell

"Lay Your Head Down” — Albert Nobbs

Music by: Brian Byrne

Lyrics by: Glenn Close

“The Living Proof” — The Help

Music by: Mary J. Blige, Thomas Newman, Harvey Mason Jr.

Lyrics by: Mary J. Blige, Harvey Mason Jr., Damon Thomas

Best Original Score – Motion Picture

 Ludovic Bource, The Artist  

Abel Korzeniowski, W.E. 

Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo 

Howard Shore, Hugo 

John Williams, War Horse

Best Performance By An Actor In A Supporting Role In A Motion Picture  

Christopher Plummer, Beginners

Kenneth Branagh, My Week With Marilyn 

Albert Brooks, Drive  

Jonah Hill, Moneyball  

Viggo Mortensen, A Dangerous Method

TELEVISION

Best Television Series – Comedy Or Musical

Modern Family, ABC 

Enlightened, HBO 

Episodes, Showtime 

Glee, FOX 

New Girl, FOX

Best Performance By An Actor In A Television Series – Comedy Or Musical 

Matt LeBlanc, Episodes 

Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock  

David Duchovny, Californication  

Johnny Galecki, The Big Bang Theory  

Thomas Jane, Hung

Best Performance By An Actress In A Television Series – Drama 

Claire Danes, Homeland 

Mireille Enos, The Killing

 Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife 

Madeleine Stowe, Revenge 

Callie Thorne, Necessary Roughness

Best Performance By An Actress In A Supporting Role In A Series, Mini-Series, Or Motion Picture Made for Television

 Jessica Lange, American Horror Story  

Kelly Macdonald, Boardwalk Empire 

Maggie Smith, Downton Abbey 

Sofia Vergara, Modern Family  

Evan Rachel Wood, Mildred Pierce

Best Performance By An Actor in A Supporting Role in A Series, Mini-Series Or Motion Picture Made For Television  

Peter Dinklage, Game of Thrones 

Paul Giamatti, Too Big to Fail

 Guy Pearce, Mildred Pierce

 Tim Robbins, Cinema Verite

 Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family

Best Performance By An Actor In A Mini-Series Or Motion Picture Made For Television 

Idris Elba, Luther 

Hugh Bonneville, Downton Abbey

 William Hurt, To Big to Fail

 Bill Nighy, Page Eight 

Dominic West, The Hour

Best Television Series – Drama

Homeland, Showtime

American Horror Story, FX

Boardwalk Empire, HBO

Boss, STARZ

Game of Thrones, HBO

Best Performance By An Actor In A Television Series – Drama

 Kelsey Grammer, Boss

 Steve Buscemi, Boardwalk Empire  

Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad

Jeremy Irons, The Borgias  

Damian Lewis, Homeland

Best Performance By An Actress In A Mini-Series Or Motion Picture Made For Television

 Kate Winslet, Mildred Pierce

 Romola Garai, The Hour  

Diane Lane, Cinema Verite  

Elizabeth McGovern, Downton Abbey  

Emily Watson, Appropriate Adult

Best Mini-Series Or Motion Picture Made For Television

 Downton Abbey, PBS (Masterpiece)

 Cinema Verite, HBO

 The Hour, BBC America 

Mildred Pierce, HBO

 Too Big to Fail, HBO

Best Performance By An Actress In A Television Series – Comedy Or Musical 

Laura Dern, Enlightened

 Zooey Deschanel, New Girl 

Tina Fey, 30 Rock

 Laura Linney, The Big C

 Amy Poehler, Parks and Recreation

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"Bourne Legacy" shooting in Malate, Manila

2012-01-13T02:24:00.000-08:00

The Bourne Legacy film has already started shooting in Malate, Manila as its first location on January 11, 2012 (Wednesday). It stars Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz and Edward Norton. The producer, director and the production crew were preparing the location shoot very well and Filipinos were so excited the whole time.

[More information about the film here.]

Francis Tolentino, head of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), said that he prepared 120 crowd control personnel to assist traffic enforcers within the Malate district. As early as 5am on January 11, all the police and crowd control personnel were already gathered for their location assignments.

Preparation for the "Bourne Legacy" shooting

Edwin Lacierda, President Benigno Aquino III’s spokesman says the movie will be an avenue to boost our country's tourism and will provide jobs for the Filipinos.

Residents were sad because shooting in Malate area has finally ended. But the locals share how they appreciate Rachel Weisz for being so nice and approachable.

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180 Microcinema Festival Narrative 2012: Philippine Premiere at Power Plant Cinema (Jan. 7, 2012)

2012-01-06T14:28:00.001-08:00

Everyone is invited to the Philippine premiere of 180 Microcinema Festival Narrative 2012 to be held at the Power Plant Cinema, Rockwell Center on January 7, 2012 at 10:00am to 1:00pm. 3-minute film entries from around the world will be shown. Jury Panel Head and Academy Award-winning producer, Stephanie Walmsley, will also be in attendance for special segments. RSVP thru +63.917.6288039.

Launched in 2009, the 180 Microcinema Festival encourages filmmakers to ‘Spin the System’ with 180-second cinematic experiences embracing non-traditional and unorthodox approaches to production and distribution, utilizing the web, mobile devices, and emerging digital platforms to reach a global audience. During the course of the last Festival, our Jury Panel, headed by Jeremy Segay (Selection Committee, Director’s Fortnight – Cannes Film Festival / Consultant to Festival Paris Cinema, France) evaluated 87 films in the Narrative, Experimental, and Documentary Categories, while viewers in 72 countries voted online to determine the Audience Choice awardees.

Starting January 7, 2012 at 1pm, viewers can vote for and discuss the film entries at http://180cinema.net and share the embeddable videos on other websites.

For any queries, contact festival@180cinema.net. Or check the website: http://180cinema.net/ for more information.

Follow 180 Microcinema:

http://www.facebook.com/180cinema 

http://www.twitter.com/180cinema

 

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Repertory Philippines presents "Next Fall" (Jan. 13-Feb. 5, 2012)

2012-01-05T21:47:00.000-08:00

Repertory Philippines offers Next Fall as its first production for 2012. Written by playwright Geoffrey Nauffts, and directed by Audie Gemora, Next Fall is a story about a gay couple who have conflicting views about religion. The play is showing on January 13-February 5, 2012 at the Onstage in Greenbelt 1, Makati City.

Next Fall is co-presented by the City of Makati, Enderun Colleges and Bellaroca Island Resort and Spa. It is presented by special arrangement with Creative Artists Agency.

SYNOPSIS

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.

Bart Guingona as Adam; David Bianco as Luke

BACKGROUND

Next Fall is a romantic comedy, a tragedy, a family drama, an issue play, and a coming-of-age story. The discussion of faith is still central to the characters' 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).

Meet the Playwright: Geoffrey Nauffts

THE CAST & THE DIRECTOR

Bart Guingona as Adam - a committed cynic, atheist and hypochondriac; Luke's boyfriend.

David Bianco as Luke - a Born Again Christian and aspiring actor; Adam’s boyfriend.

Liesl Batucan as Holly - Adam’s fag hag best friend and owner of the candle shop.

Niccolo Manahan as Brandon - a property manager; Luke’s friend.

Juno Henares as Arlene - Luke’s mother.

Miguel Faustmann as Butch - a deeply religious man; Luke’s father and Arlene’s ex-husband.

Veteran actor-director Audie Gemora directs the play. This is Audie’s 3rd directorial job for Repertory Philippines (the other two were The Fantastiks and Equus).

SHOW DATES

January 13 (Fri) - 8pm

January 14 (Sat) - 3:30pm / 8pm

January 15 (Sun) - 3:30pm

January 20 (Fri) - 8pm

January 21 (Sat) - 3:30pm / 8pm

January 22 (Sun) - 3:30pm

January 27 (Fri) - 8pm

January 28 (Sat) - 3:30pm / 8pm

January 29 (Sun) - 3:30pm

February 3 (Fri) - 8pm

February 4 Sat) - 3:30pm / 8pm

February 5 (Sun) - 3:30pm

THE ARTISTIC & CREATIVE TEAM

Baby Barredo (Artistic Director), Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo (Associate Artistic Director), John Batalla (Lighting Designer) and Denis Lagdameo (Set Designer).

PRODUCTION STAFF

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).

MARKETING & PUBLICITY

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 (632) 571-6926 or 571-4941 or email info@repertory.ph. Tickets are also available thru Ticketworld at (632) 891-9999 or www.ticketworld.com.ph. Visit www.repertory.ph, subscribe to youtube.com/repertoryphils, and add “Rep Phils” on 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.

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A symposium on "Philippine Film: History & Criticism" at UP-Diliman (Jan 13, 2012)

2012-01-05T11:04:00.000-08:00

A symposium on Philippine Film: History & Criticism will be held at the CMC Auditorium of UP-Diliman on January 13, 2012 at 8:30am to 5:00pm. This is in honor of Nicanor G. Tiongson.

Program for Day 2: Film Module

Jan 13, 2011: 830 am-5 pm, UP CMC Auditorium

8:30-9:20 am Registration and coffee

9:20-9:40am Opening

Chari Lucero, Project Background

Jonathan Chua, Conference (Day 1) recap

Roland Tolentino, Conference (Day 2) orientation

PANEL 1: 9:40-11 am

9:40-10 Nestor O. Jardin: The Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival

Cinemalaya was founded in 2005 with clear objectives: 1) to help develop and support the production of cinematic works of Filipino independent filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity; 2) to discover, encourage, support, train and recognize gifted Filipino independent filmmakers; 3) to promote Filipino independent films locally and internationally; and 4) to establish a network for exchange, communication, and cooperation among members of the independent film sector. The paper will assess the impact of Cinemalaya after 6 years and discuss how it should move forward to better serve Philippine independent cinema.

10-10:20 Jay Jomar F. Quintos: Toward a Cinema of the People

This paper aims to present the shift in the general perception of film as an imperialist apparatus to a medium of resistance and rebellion against the status quo. The independent cinema, or “indie film,” which has been around since the 1970s, is a voice for the voiceless, space for the marginalized, and weapon for the weak. It is an art form that is used by third-world filmmakers as a medium of resistance against hegemony and thus may be regarded as a cinema of the people.

10:20-10:40 Rosalie Matilac: Two Films on Human Trafficking in Cinemalaya 2010

In 2010, two films on human trafficking won top awards in the Cinemalaya Film Festival, proof that the issue has definitely captured the imagination of artists, particularly independent filmmakers. However, the entry of human trafficking (with its motley characters of victims, recruiters, transporters, traffickers and end-users) into the realm of Philippine cinema is not necessarily a cause for celebration by anti-human trafficking advocates. The paper examines how the winning films handled the complex crime, demonstrating the vulnerability of filmmakers to the lure of stories about poverty, abject oppression, wretchedness and victimization without liberation.

10.40-11 Open Forum

Panel 2: 11-12 noon

11-11:20 Soledad Reyes: Komiks into Film

The paper will contextualize the komiks of the 1970s and 1980s within the tradition that began in 1929 with the publication of Tony Velasquez's Kenkoy and the komiks' subsequent development until the postwar years. It will also chart the influence of the komiks on another popular genre, the movies, as manifested in the contents of selected komiks magazines that came out during the period being studied.The paper seeks to provide insights into the specific ways in which popular forms construct "reality."

11:20-11:40 Alvin B. Yapan: The Body of the Possessed in Filipino Horror

Cinematic depictions of cases of possession have always been presented as a triumph of Catholicism against folkloric belief systems. The current paper will investigate how this depiction is a simplification of the local understanding of the phenomenon of possession, where the invading element is even given space in the body of the possessed. The paper will use the talagbusao phenomenon among the Bukidnon people as a representation of the folkloric understanding of possession. This will be juxtaposed with possessions depicted in Patayin Mo sa Sindak si Barbara (Celso Ad. Castillo, 1974), Gumising Ka, Maruja (Lino Brocka, 1978), and Lovingly Yours, Helen (Argel Joseph, 1984). In the end, the paper will propose that these depictions ultimately contribute to the conceptualizations of what is foreign and what is local for the Filipino.

11.40-12 Open Forum

12:00-1.30 pm LUNCH BREAK: CMC Auditorium Lobby

Panel 3: 1:30-2:30 pm

1:30-1:50 Clodualdo del Mundo: Rody Lacap and auteur theory

The subject is revisiting the auteur theory, using Rody Lacap, director of photography, as the prime example.

1:50-2:10 Jema Pamintuan: Tunog Lata: Ang musika sa mga pelikulang Tirador at Bakal Boys

Sa pamamagitan ng pagsusuri sa paggamit ng instrumentasyon at tunog sa mga pelikulang Tirador (2007) at Bakal Boys (2009), lilinawin ang pamamaraan kung paano binigyang-artikulasyon ng tunog at musika ang iba’t ibang hugis at samyo ng imahen ng lunsod sa mga pelikula. Uusisain kung paano itinawid ng musikal na leitmotif, at kung ano ang masasalat na kayarian, kalidad at tekstura sa mga tunog, hindi lamang ang biswal na representasyon ng ekonomiyang underground na makakapa sa mga tagpuan, kung hindi ang kaakibat ding sapalaran ng mga tauhang sangkot sa ekonomiyang ito. Ang tekstura at ritmo ng musika, at ang mga pangunahing motif ng bakal at lata bilang karakterisasyon ng tunog nito, ay nagtutulak sa naratibo ng ugnayan ng tauhan at urban na lunan, mula sa mga walang humpay na pagbagtas sa mga kalye at eskinita, mga ilegal at palihim na transaksyon, na pawang naglarawan ng bigat at halos kinakalawang na uri ng pamumuhay na iniinugan ng mga karakter sa mga pelikula.

2:10-2:30 Open Forum

Panel 4: 2:30-3:50 pm

2:30-2:50 Renei Patricia Dimla: Burgis Criticism: Affluence and Power in Danny Zialcita’s Films (1979-1986)

The peak of Danny Zialcita’s career in film occurred during the Martial Law period, particularly in the years 1979 to 1986. In his early years in the industry, Zialcita dabbled in action and bomba flicks, but ultimately, what brought him fame and critical acclaim were his burgis films, i.e., films that centered on the lives of society’s upper and upper middle class. This paper analyzes the representation of affluence and power in Zialcita’s burgis films vis-à-vis its context during the Marcos dictatorship.

2:50-3:10 Patrick Campos: The Philippine-American Contact, the Politics of Memory, and the End(s) of Cinematic Experimentation

This paper addresses certain independent films dealing with the historical contact of the Philippines and America, namely, Marlon Fuentes’ Bontoc Eulogy, Raymond Red’s Sakay, Sari Dalena and Camilla Griggers’s Memories of a Forgotten War, Raya Martin’s Independencia, and John Sayles’ Amigo, vis-à-vis mainstream films on the Philippine-American “experience.” These films are remarkable, not only in imagining a “forgotten” historical juncture – that is, forgotten in “popular” memory by both Filipinos and Americans – but also in the cinematic-historical location by which this history is imagined.

By virtue of these films’ being likewise “marginal,” they are afforded ample leeway for formal and metafictive experimentation, which allows them to articulate the forgotten or unwritten/unspoken, to invent or create form corresponding to memories, and to occasion ritual remembrance. But their location in Philippine and American cinema histories also spells out the limits of the films’ efficacy and reach. The films’ stake on memory may be celebratory, at the very least, for their mere existence; but their place in history is perpetually contested and always precarious.

3:10-3:30 Vicente Garcia Groyon: Cinemarehiyon 2009

“Cinemarehiyon 2009” surveys the films, short and full-length, selected for and screened at the Cinemarehiyon festival from February 18 to 21, 2009. Dubbed “Alter Nativo: Films from the Other Philippines,” the festival presented a sampling of filmmaking activity outside of Metro Manila. This essay compares formal and stylistic features of the films, and arrives at general observations about characteristics of contemporary regional cinema.

3.30-3.50 Open Forum

3:50-4:00 Break

4:00-5:00 Business Meeting (publication process, schedules and deadline, word count, citation format, etc.)

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"The Bourne Legacy" film looking for crowd talents

2012-01-04T14:16:00.000-08:00

The Bourne Legacy, the fourth installment of the "Bourne" film franchise will be shooting in various locations within Metro Manila from January to March 2012. Starring Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz and Edward Norton, the film will be directed by Tony Gilroy. Screenplay is written by Tony Gilroy and Dan Gilroy.

The Bourne films are action-packed films based on the character of Jason Bourne, a former CIA assassin suffering from extreme memory loss. The stories were written as novels by Robert Ludlum and were all adapted for the big screen, featuring Matt Damon. Tony Gilroy co-wrote the screenplays of all 3 films. Doug Liman directed The Bourne Identity (2002), while Paul Greengrass directed The Bourne Supremacy (2004) and The Bourne Ultimatum (2007).

Tony Gilroy has only adapted the title from Ludlum but this fourth film will take a different story and the character Jason Bourne may not be present in the film. It took 10 years since the first film was released in Hollywood.

For those who are interested to be part of the crowd talents for The Bourne Legacy, send your profile (Name, Age, Height, Vital Statistics and Contact #s) and photos to: gamebrainus@gmail.com. There will be a minimum talent fee per shooting day. Chosen talents will be contacted ASAP. A thousand people (crowd) are expected to participate.

According to Gilroy, about 40% will be shot in Manila, which include: Edsa-Pasay Taft Avenue, Ayala Avenue, Intramuros, Jones Bridge, Marikina City Market, San Andres Market, Nagtahan Bridge, Navotas Fishport, and Ramon Magsaysay Boulevard. The production team might target El Nido, Palawan to be the location for the last part of the film.

The Bourne Legacy is expected to be released by the end of August 2012.

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Fireworks Display for 2012 Countdown: My Top 3 Picks (London, Sydney & Dubai)

2012-01-01T16:46:00.001-08:00

Image courtesy of: Metro UK

Fireworks display is one of the most awaited events on New Year's Eve anywhere in the world. Here are my Top 3 picks of the Best Fireworks Display for the 2012 Countdown: (1) London, England; (2) Sydney, Australia; and (3) Dubai.

(1) London, England

(2) Sydney, Australia

(3) Dubai

Image courtesy of: News Australia

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MMFF 2010, 2011 & Beyond: 10 Points

2011-12-30T16:02:00.000-08:00

The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) has been one of the most controversial film events in the Philippines every year. Here is my forecast of the films that may compete in the 2012 MMFF.

You may also check out the following as references:

36th Metro Manila Film Festival (2010)
37th Metro Manila Film Festival (2011)

(1) Nagsama ang dalawang higanteng bida noong 2010: Ang Agimat at Si Enteng Kabisote na nakakuha lang ng 2 awards.

(2) Kaya naghanap ng ibang kapartner si Enteng. Ngunit hindi pinanindigan ang Ang Tanging Ina Mo: Last Na 'To (2010) dahil ang nangyari ay Ang Enteng ng Ina Mo para sa 2011 (a.k.a., Ang Tanging Ina Mo: Last Na Ito Part 2!).

(3) Sa 2012, itutuloy na ang naudlot na Ang Tanging Ina Mo: Promise, Last Na Ito Part 2! (na kung tutuusin ay Part 3 na!).

(4) Noong 2010, walang award na nakuha ang Shake, Rattle & Roll 12. Pero ngayon, ang Shake, Rattle & Roll 13 ay 3rd Best Picture. Improving na nga ba talaga ang SRR series?

(5) Siyempre, expected na next year ang Shake, Rattle & Roll 14. Abangan daw!

(6) Next year, magkakaroon na ng Segunda Mano Po starring Kris Aquino pa rin. No less, no more! This is Chinese horror!

(7) Next MMFF film ni Vic Sotto ay pagpipilian pa kung Enteng Kabisote is My Househusband o Manila Kingpin: The Enteng Kabisote Story.

(8) Next film ni Bong Revilla: Ang Agimat ni Panday (isip niya, "lalaban muli ang Panday. Di kami pagagapi!!!").

(9) Sa 2012, posibleng magkaroon ng Sa Makalawa: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow Part 2 dahil sa di gaanong pinalad ang pelikula sa 2011. Babalik sila, "sa makalawa."

(10) Sa MMFF 2012, big producer muli ang Scenema Concepts International. Application is now open!

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Jose Rizal: The First Hero (a documentary)

2011-12-30T14:43:00.001-08:00

Maestro Film Foundation presents a new documentary entitled Jose Rizal: The First Hero directed by Paolo Abella and produced by Jourdan Sebastian, in cooperation with Fluidpost and Bigtop. The film is written by Christian Vallez, Jonathan Guillermo and Joem Torallba, while directors of photography are Arvin Viola and Odyssey Flores, production design by Nina Torres and wardrobe of Jose Rizal was created by John Ablaza.

Every December 30, the Philippines celebrates Rizal Day and it is considered a non-working holiday in Philippine calendars.

Jose Rizal: The First Hero (teaser)

A groundbreaking new documentary about the person, the legend, and the mystery that shrouds Jose Rizal. This documentary is a cinematic and utterly truthful presentation of the story of Rizal's heroism, like you've never seen before. Created by a team of young filmmakers dedicated to excellence and backed up by the finest historians with a passion for the truth. Jose Rizal: The First Hero will be available for private screening this 2012.

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Actor Tyron Perez found dead inside his car in Valenzuela

2011-12-29T17:14:00.000-08:00

Filipino Actor Tyron Perez (born on September 14, 1985) was found dead in an abandoned car at Que Grande in Barangay Ugong in Valenzuela City on Thursday night, December 29, 2011. He was 26.

Perez’s body was found lifeless at the backseat of a black Toyota Altis parked along the service road of the North Luzon Expressway within the vicinity of Barangay Ugong. This was being reported by Senior Superintendent Wilben Mayor.

Police said Perez died of a gunshot wound on the right side of his head using a caliber .22 gun. There was a suspicion that Perez may have committed suicide. But this angle is still being investigated.

Reports say that investigators are looking into his last tweet dated November 24, 2011 if it has something to do with his death.

Perez first appeared on television when he joined the Star Struck (Batch 1), a reality show on Philippine television in 2003 via GMA Channel 7 network. He also appeared in drama series like Momay, Imortal and Mula Sa Puso. Perez is now the second alumnus fom Star Struck who died and happened to be in the same month when Marky Cielo passed away on December 7, 2008.

Tyron portrayed roles in films like Malikmata (2003), Twilight Dancers (2006) and Pipo (2009). He also appeared recently in Maalaala Mo Kaya (December 3, 2011 episode), a drama anthology of ABS-CBN Channel 2.

Director Jerry Sineneng, Perez’s manager said that he had been looking for Tyron for days because of possible guestings on TV. But the director couldn’t find him and did not know of his whereabouts.

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37th Metro Manila Film Festival Winners (2011)

2011-12-28T19:28:00.000-08:00

Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story won victorious at the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival (2011) winning a total of 11 awards during the awarding rites at the Newport Performing Arts Theater at Resorts World Manila located in Pasay City on December 28, 2011 (Wednesday).

The 37th Metro Manila Film Festival Awards Night will be telecast on ABS-CBN Channel 2 on January 1, 2012 (Sunday) at 10:45pm.

Complete List of Awards received by each film:

Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story

(Scenema Concepts Int’l, Viva Films)
[Genre: Action/ Drama]

Best Picture
Best Director: Tikoy Aguiluz
Best Supporting Actor: John Regala
Best Screenplay: Roi Iglesias and Rey Ventura
Best Cinematography: Carlo Mendoza
Best Original Theme Song: “La Paloma” by Ely Buendia
Best Musical Score: Jessie Lazaten
Best Sound Recording: Mike Idioma
Best Editing: Jason Cahapay and Ryan Orduna
Best Production Design: Fritz Siloria, Mona Soriano, and Ronaldo Cadapan
Gatpuno Villegas Cultural Award

Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story Film Trailer

Enteng Ng Ina Mo
(Star Cinema, M-Zet Films)
[Genre: Fantasy/ Comedy]

Second Best Picture
Best Make-up: Florencia Penero, Niccolo Medina, and Jayvee Flores

Enteng ng Ina Mo Film Trailer

Shake, Rattle, and Roll 13
(Regal Films)

[Genre: Horror]
Third Best Picture
Best Child Performer: Bugoy Carino
Best Story: Chris Martinez and Marlon Rivera

Shake, Rattle & Roll 13 Film Trailer

My Househusband: Ikaw Na!
(OctoArts Films)

[Genre: Comedy/ Drama]
Best Supporting Actress: Eugene Domingo
Gender Sensitivity Award

My Househusband Film Trailer

Ang Panday 2

[Genre: Fantasy/ Action]
Best Visual Effects: Riot Inc.
Best Float

Ang Panday 2 Film Trailer

Segunda Mano

(Star Cinema)
[Genre: Horror/ Suspense/ Drama]
Best Actor: Dingdong Dantes

Segunda Mano Film Trailer

Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow

(Regal Films)
[Genre: Drama]
Best Actress: Maricel Soriano

Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow Film Trailer

The New Wave Independent Section of the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival was shown on December 17-21, 2011). The winners are:

Best Full-Length Independent Film: Pintakasi

Best New Wave Actor: JM de Guzman (Pintakasi)

Best New Wave Actress: Iza Calzado (H.I.V.)

New Wave Gender Sensitivity Award: H.I.V. (full-length) and Speechless from Miriam College (student film)

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6th Spring Film Festival in Manila (Jan 20-29, 2012)

2011-12-26T12:05:00.000-08:00

The Ateneo de Manila University Ricardo Leong Center for Chinese Studies and the Ateneo-Celadon present the 6th Spring Film Festival featuring the cultural heritage of Mandarin language movies on January 20-29, 2012 at the Shangri-La Cineplex at Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong City. This is in celebration of the Dragon Year of the Chinese calendar.

The festival will screen six (6) films: Ocean Heaven, Confucius, Bodyguards and Assassins, Lost on Journey, Country Wedding and King of Mi-lu Deer. Admission to all screenings are FREE but on a first-come first-served basis.

Please see complete synopses and screening schedules below.

1. Ocean Heaven
Description: Drama

It has been said that the hardest job is to be a parent. Parenting becomes even more challenging if you’re raising a special child. Ocean Heaven features a father- Sam Wang, who solely took care of his autistic child. Faced with illness, Wang searched for institutions that would accept his son. But no institution was apt for his son’s condition. Thus, Wang needed to train his son by himself and patiently taught him how to be independent for his own survival. As the days went by, Wang and his son got closer to each other which their friends had witnessed. This heart-warming film shows how parents, even on their last days, would do anything just to ensure the safety and happiness of their children.

Note: This movie is also the first to cast Jet Li in a non-kung-fu film where he won the 2010 Wen Zhang Best Actor Award; The movie was also recognized by the Shanghai Media Awards, CCTV Movie Channel Media Awards 2010 and Golden Goblet Award.

2. Confucius
Description: Biographical Drama

He is the Chinese Philosopher who has been regarded as the “The Great Sage.” Confucius lived during the time when China’s dynasties were in chaos and engulfed by corruption and greed. He strongly believed that ethics and education will put all things to order. His wisdom was sought by different dynasty leaders but only to be abandoned after he dutifully served his purpose. The world knows so much of his teachings, but little is known of his hardships. This biographical drama shows the sufferings and pain Confucius endured and the principles he fervently kept that became the foundation of China’s ethics, morality and law.

Note: Stars Chow Yun-Fat as Confucius, Nominated for Best Actor at the 30th Hong Kong Film Awards. Other nominations include Best Cinematography, Art Design, Costume Design and Original Song.

3. Bodyguards and Assassins
Description: Action Historical Film

In 1905, Hongkong was under the British rule and revolution was on the rise. One man was set to land in Hong Kong to meet and to unify faction leaders to finally take down the corrupt and crumbling Qing Dynasty. Because of this, Dowager Cixi wanted this man assassinated. For the Chinese people who had been clamouring for freedom, they understood that keeping this man alive would mean keeping China’s hope to be liberated. Li Yutang, a businessman, gathered a tofu vendor, rickshaw pullers, a beggar and an orphan to serve as bodyguards. These bodyguards displayed their superb fighting skills as they battle it out with the assassins to protect this man they haven’t even met. Find out who this man was and why did these commoners sacrifice their personal dreams and lives for him.

Note: This action-historical movie garnered numerous awards from the 4th Asian Film Awards, 29th Hongkong Film Awards, 16th Hongkong Film Critics Society Awards and 47th Golden Horse Awards.

4. Lost on Journey
Description: Comedy, Drama

The Chinese New Year is the most important event for every Chinese Family. During this time, everyone goes back to his hometown to celebrate and to greet the New Year in the company of his family. This time also means that all modes of transportation is busy and fully booked. One passenger, Li Chenggong hopped from a plane, to a train, to a bus, and to a boat in the desire to be with his family. And along the way, he met a stranger Niu Geng who helped him discover something important about himself and the goodness of other people. This movie is a funny presentation of how bad luck brought two different worlds together. Find out if Niu Geng and Li Chenggong made it home on the eve of the New Year.

5. Country Wedding
Description: Comedy

Yuanfeng and Mengyan are getting married. As soon as they’ve announced their wedding to their families, excitement filled their respective households. So much the excitement, that their parents started to meddle with the wedding plans. Mengyan’s mother, who is living in Beijing, insists of holding the wedding at the Tiandu Hotel. On the other hand, Yuanfeng’s father, being the director of the cooperative in Kangjiazhuang village, feels indebted to the community, therefore, he wants to share the wedding to the whole village. This film is a funny portrayal of the clash of cultures between the city and country side. Who will convince who? Where will Yuanfeng and Mengyan celebrate their wedding?

6. King of Milu Deer
Description: 3D Animation, Fantasy

King of Milu Deer is the first 3D animation attempt of China aimed to promote environment protection. It is a story of a white deer,Yoyo, who turned into a lady and made friends with Tzan-the prince of Kingdom of Clouds and Dreams. Tzan was ordered by the minister to search the Labyrinth Mountain to hunt for the Milu Deer to use it as a sacrifice to bring rains in the kingdom. But Tzan discovered the beauty of the Labyrinth Mountain and got closer to Yoyo. Together, they fought sea lizard monsters, fire,soldiers, and the evil Minister to save the wildlife and natural resources of the Labyrinth Mountain.

Note: This movie became the highest grossing Chinese Animated film of all time and received the Best Animated Film of the 13th Huabiao Awards.

Screening Schedules:

JANUARY 20 (FRIDAY)

Country Wedding (1:30 hr) - 1:00 pm
Lost on Journey (1:35) - 3:00 pm
Opening Night  (by invitation only)
GALA : 6:00 pm
Ocean Heaven (1:40) - 7:00 pm

 
 JANUARY 21 (SATURDAY) 
Lost on Journey (1:35 hr) - 1:30 pm 
Confucius (2:00) - 3:30 pm 
Bodyguards & Assassins (2:15) - 6:00 pm 
Ocean Heaven (1:40) - 9:00 pm 

JANUARY 22 (SUNDAY)
Ocean Heaven (1:40 hr) - 1:30 pm
The King of Milu Deer (1:30) - 3:30 pm
Confucius (2:00) - 5:30 pm
Bodyguards & Assassins (2:15) - 8:00 pm

JANUARY 23 (MONDAY) 
Country Wedding (1:30 hr) - 1:30 pm 
Bodyguards & Assassins (2:15) - 3:30 pm 
Ocean Heaven (1:40) - 6:30 pm 
Lost on Journey (1:35) - 8:30 pm

JANUARY 24 (TUESDAY)
Bodyguards & Assassins (2:15 hr) - 1:30 pm
Lost on Journey (1:35) - 4:30 pm
Confucius (2:00) - 6:30 pm
The King of Milu Deer (1:30) - 9:00 pm

JANUARY 25 (WEDNESDAY) 
The King of Milu Deer (1:30 hr) - 1:30 pm
Confucius (2:00) - 3:30 pm 
Ocean Heaven (1:40) - 6:00 pm 
Country Wedding (1:30) - 8:00 pm 

JANUARY 26 (THURSDAY)
Lost on Journey (1:35 hr) - 1:30 pm
Country Wedding (1:30) - 3:30 pm
The King of Milu Deer (1:30) - 5:30 pm
Confucius (2:00) - 7:30 pm

JANUARY 27 (FRIDAY)
 Ocean Heaven (1:40 hr) - 1:30 pm
Lost on Journey (1:35) - 3:30 pm 
Confucius (2:00) - 5:30 pm 
Bodyguards & Assassins (2:15) - 8:00 pm 

 JANUARY 28 (SATURDAY)
The King of Milu Deer (1:30 hr) - 1:30 pm
Ocean Heaven (1:40) - 3:30 pm
Lost on Journey (1:35) - 5:30 pm
Confucius (2:00) - 7:30 pm

JANUARY 29 (SUNDAY)
 Lost on Journey (1:35 hr) - 1:30 pm
Country Wedding (1:30) - 3:30 pm 
Bodyguards & Assassins (2:15) - 5:30 pm 
Ocean Heaven (1:40) - 8:30 pm 

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Write about an invention and win a Limited Edition BPI Globe Tattoo stick + other exciting prizes!

2011-12-24T10:53:00.000-08:00

Win a Limited Edition BPI Globe Tattoo Mobile Broadband Stick and other exciting prizes by writing a blog post about "What do you like to be invented?" Some prizes are at stake too. Please see below.

This promo runs from December 25, 2011 to January 10, 2012. Contest is valid only to residents in the Philippines.

Bank of the Philippines Islands (BPI) celebrates 160th anniversary with Globe Telecom launching the commemorative Tattoo broadband stick that allows customers access to BPI Express Online and other BPI wesbites even without the prepaid load.

It's so easy to join.

MECHANICS:

(1) Answer only one (1) question by making a blog post using any blogging platform:

Question #1: If ever you’re given a chance to invent something (that was not created yet), what would it be and why?

Question #2: If you think that you can't invent anything, what do you like to be invented and why?

Length of the blog post will not matter much as long as you can explain it well. In your blog post, include also a back link to this particular post. A rough sketch/drawing/graphics of the proposed invention is NOT required but points will be given due credit.

(2) Visit http://vintersections.com. Add/ Like the Facebook Page of The Intersections & Beyond.

(3) Visit http://imaginegreen.org. Add/ Like the Facebook Page of Imagine Green.

(4) Add me up on Twitter: http://twitter.com/ronivalle

(5) [Optional] Add me up on Google+: http://gplus.to/arvine

(6) To submit an entry, leave a comment below this blog post containing the ff:

a. Link to your blog post

b. Your Facebook name used to like the 2 Facebook Pages.

c. Your Twitter url.

d. [Optional] Your Google+ url.
e. Your email (so I could contact you in case you win).

(7) Post your blog post entry link on your Facebook Wall tagging the 2 Facebook Pages: @The Intersections & Beyond and @Imagine Green.

(8) Participants can submit more than 1 entry.

(9) ONLY complete entries will be considered valid.

(10) Entries will be scored based on the following metrics:

Blog Post Content/Creativity/Originality; Usefulness of the Invention: 50%
Writing (Language/Grammar/Punctuations): 20%
Adherence to the Mechanics/ Requirements: 30%
TOTAL: 100%

PRIZES:

| 1st Prize |

1st Place:

Limited Edition BPI Globe Tattoo Mobile Broadband Stick

Avon Lipstick (C300 Cherry)

Lee Polo Shirt

Official Program of the Philippine Fashion Week (Holiday 2011)

Official Program of the Philippine Fashion Week (Spring/Summer 2012)

Worth PhP 4,300

Note: The Philippine Fashion Week Programs contain photos of models and designers' photo & profile.

| 2nd Prize |

2nd Place:

Jag Polo Shirt

Classical Music CD (Carmencita Lozada's Violin Series 1 CD #1: World Premiere Violin Music)

SM Cinema Mug

Official Program of the Philippine Fashion Week (Holiday 2011)

Official Program of the Philippine Fashion Week (Spring/Summer 2012)

Worth PhP 1,500

| 3rd to 6th Prizes |

Any Classical CD of your choice:

Carmencita Lozada's Violin Series 1 CD #2: Classical Music

Carmencita Lozada's Violin Series 1 CD #3: Classic & Romantic Music

Carmencita Lozada's Violin Series 1 CD #5: Unaccompanied Violin Sonatas

Carmencita Lozada's Violin Series 1 CD #7: Violin Concertos

Note: Prizes above may be added depending on the number and quality of entries submitted. If you have questions, just let me know by leaving a comment below. Thanks!

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Tanghalang Pilipino's "Eyeball" features 4 plays (Jan 13-Feb 12, 2012)

2011-12-22T21:51:00.000-08:00

Tanghalang Pilipino, the resident theater company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), concludes its 25th Theater Season with EYEBALL: New Visions in Philippine Theater. This production features four (4) of the best plays from the Virgin Labfest, the annual festival of new works usually being held in late June to early July. Eyeball is showing on January 13 to February 12, 2012 at the CCP Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (Little Theater).

The 4 plays deal with the theme, “Searching” and tackle man’s search for love, for lost family bonds, for noble ideals, for closure, and for missing loved ones.

EYEBALL will be shown as two sets of twin-bills:

Set-A

Set-A includes Carlo Pacolor Garcia’s hilarious Bakit Wala Nang Nagtatagpo sa Philcoa Oberpas, directed by Riki Benedicto, which tells the story of a man and a woman who decide to meet at the Philcoa Overpass after months of flirting online. The cast includes TP Actors Company members Jonathan Tadioan, Jelson Bay, Martha Comia, Marco Viaña and Gino Ramirez; and guest artists Pam Hundana and Carmina Capile.

In Doc Resureccion: Gagamutin ang Bayan, by Layeta Bucoy (Directed by Tuxqs Rutaqio), a well-meaning doctor runs for Mayor only to find out that the community he so wanted to help desires a different path for itself. This intriguing work features action-packed performances of Riki Benedicto, Jonathan Tadioan, Rayna Reyes and Miss Sherry Lara.

Showdates of SET-A:

January 13 - 8pm

January 14 - 3pm / 8pm

January 15 - 3pm

February 4 - 8pm

February 5 - 3pm

February 10 - 8pm
February 11 - 3pm

Set-B

Set-B is composed of plays directed by the exceptional director Chris Millado. In Reuel Molina Aguila’s Maliw, five years after the forced-disappearance of her eldest daughter, a mother confronts the question: How does one close a chapter still to be written? The play is set after her family celebrates her eldest daughter’s 30th birthday. This bittersweet play showcases brilliant acting by Sherry Lara, Spanky Manikan and TP Actors Company scholar Regina de Vera.

Isang Araw sa Karnabal is Nick Pichay’s funny but poignant play about two former activists, both with missing loved ones, meeting again after a long time and attempting to mend broken ties. Sheenly Gener leads the cast which includes Marco Viaña and Martha Comia.

Showdates of SET-B:

January 20 - 8pm

January 21 - 3pm/ 8pm

January 22 - 3pm

February 3 - 8pm

February 4 - 3pm

February 11 - 8pm

February 12 - 3pm

The Creative Team

Set Designs: Eric Cruz

Lighting Design: Katsch Catoy

Soundscape: TJ Ramos

Regular ticket price is Php600, P300 for students. Senior citizens also get discounts.

For ticket reservation, booking of special performances and other information, please call the TP office at (632) 832-3661, 0920-9535381 or +63.928.5518645. You may also contact the CCP Box Office at (632) 832-3704 and Ticketworld at (632) 891-9999 for ticket inquiries.

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Mr. Brazil is Mister International 2011

2011-12-21T13:33:00.001-08:00

Mister Brazil Cesar Curti was declared the 6th Mister International 2011. Curti bested all other 30 gorgeous candidates from around the world held at the Patravadi Theatre in Bangkok, Thailand on December 17, 2011. Curti is a model, actor, singer, musician and composer. He stands 6'1" in height. Mister Philippines Fhrancis Lopez placed 16th in the competition.

Other winners: 1st runner-up is Mister Czech Rep (Martin Gardavský); 2nd runner-up is Mister Indonesia (Steven Yoswara); 3rd runner-up is Mister Vietnam (Le Khoi Nguyen); and 4th runner-up is Mister Sweden (Marco Djelevic Virriat).

List of Winners:

Mister International 2011: Brazil - Cesar Curti
1st runner up: Czech Republic - Martin Gardavský
2nd runner up: Indonesia - Steven Yoswara
3rd runner up: Vietnam - Le Khoi Nguyen
4th runner up: Sweden - Marco Djelevic Virriat

Top 10:

6. Mexico - Sergio Filipe Melendez
7. Venezuela - Jeefry Rommel Rojas Torres
8. Slovenia - Zan Cvet
9. Korea - Ji Sung Oh
10. Slovak Republic - Jakub Murko Lorencovič

Top 16:

11. Nigeria - Kenneth Nwadike
12. Denmark - Mads Madsen
13. Norway - Danielsen Nikken
14. Sri Lanka - Anuj Ranasinghe
15. Colombia - Carlos Paez
16. Philippines - Fhrancis Lopez

Fhrancis Lopez (Philippines)

Special Awards:

Mister Congeniality: Portugal - Fábio Duarte
Best Body: Sweden - Marco Djelević Virriat
Mister Photogenic: Sweden - Marco Djelević Virriat
Best National Costume: Thailand - Direk Sindamrongsi

Mister Internet Popularity:  Indonesia - Steven Yoswara
Dream Man Award:  Brazil - César Curti
Health Man Awards:  Costa Rica, Erick Martinez

and  Czech Republic, Martin Gardavský

Most Handsome Man Award:  Denmark - Mads Madsen
Most Cute Man Award:  Korea - Ji Sung Oh
Most Popular Man Award:  Mexico - Sergio Felipe Meléndez

Photo Credits: Mister International Facebook Page, Thai Catwalk,
The Stunning Angels Facebook Page, Art Style Asia

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New 1-peso coin commemorates Jose Rizal’s 150th birthday

2011-12-21T06:20:00.000-08:00

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP/ Central Bank of the Philippines) releases 10 million pieces of the new one-peso coin this December 2011. The coin features the portrait of Dr. Jose Rizal to commemorate the hero’s 150th birthday on June 19 this year. For many decades now, Rizal is still the face that owns the 1-peso coin.

The BSP said its Monetary Board and the Office of the President approved the issuance of the commemorative coin as legal tender which was designed by Emerson RG Abraham. The words “150 years,” “Republika ng Pilipinas,” and “1861-2011” are etched on the front side of the grayish, nickel-plated coin. The reverse side carries the new BSP seal, 1-piso, and 2011.

The coin is of the same size and weight as the old one-peso coin still in circulation: 24 millimeters in diameter at 5.35 grams.

The BSP said that the issuance of the Jose Rizal coins is just one of the ways to commemorate the national hero in his 150th birth year. I wonder why our national hero was placed in a low currency coin.

In June 2011, the central bank held an exhibit titled “Rizal in Our Midst: A Homage to Greatness,” which showcased old coins and banknotes that featured Rizal, including five centavos to 100 pesos released since 1903. Rizal is the Philippines' national hero, the author of 2 novels required for high school reading: Noli Me Tangere & El Filibusterismo. He was executed at Bagumbayan (now known as Luneta) on Dec. 30, 1896.

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The 12 Shoppers of Christmas: Which one are you?

2011-12-19T14:35:00.000-08:00

* click the image for larger view *

Which among the 12 Shoppers of Christmas are you? I'm among the 3 types:

1. The Shopping Dead.

2. The Look-Around-The-House Guy.

3. The Guy Who Doesn't Get Anyone Anything.

Note: Image courtesy of Florencio P. Jusay (Krisis Komiks).

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"Mamma Mia!" in Manila (Jan 24-Feb 12, 2012)

2011-12-17T13:29:00.000-08:00

Mamma Mia! is finally here in Manila. The international tour of the highly-anticipated musical, supported by the classic songs of ABBA, will be staged at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Main Theater on January 24 to February 12, 2012 for a limited run only.

The story of Mamma Mia! unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of Sophie Sheridan’s wedding, she goes on a quest to discover the identity of her father and brings three men from her mother's past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels an enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship.

10TH ANNIVERSARY ON BROADWAY

It was 10 years ago when Mamma Mia! had its Broadway premiere at The Winter Garden Theatre. Mamma Mia! celebrated its 10th anniversary on Broadway last October 2011 - the Empire State Building was lit up pink, white, and blue at the performance in New York. Bloomberg, the city's mayor presented Judy Cramer (the musical's producer) with an official proclamation and declared that October 18 is Mamma Mia! Day. It became the 10th longest running show in Broadway history, surpassing the record previously held by Miss Saigon.

MAIN CAST

The world-class cast of Mamma Mia! premiered their English-language International Tour in Dublin in 2004 and are now currently past their 2000th performance, which was performed in Zurich, Switzerland last November 2, 2011. Included in the Manila Season are Sara Poyzer, Sophie Sheridan, Rosie Heath, and Tasha Taylor Thompson.

Actress Sara Poyzer (Donna Sheridan), plays the mother of Charlotte Wakefield (Sophie Sheridan). Poyzer has performed in hit shows like Othello, Billy Elliot – The Musical, and Merchant of Venice. Wakefield made her West End debut starring in Spring Awakening and also nominated for Best Actress In A Musical at the 2010 Laurence Olivier awards.

Rosie Heath and Tasha Taylor Thompson plays Ali and Lisa, Sophie’s best friends who help her find her father. Heath trained in Musical Theater and Dance from Master Performing Arts College and has performed in Aladdin, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Whistle Down the Wind, and Les Misérables. Thompson trained in National Youth Music Theatre, Marilyn Baker School of Dance, and Doncaster. She has also performed in Frank, Dean and Sammy - Live in Las Vegas, Starlight Express, Sylvia in Howard Goodall’s The Dreaming, and is the captain in Call Me Madam.

The International Cast has enthralled audiences in Dubai, Germany, Sweden, Prague, New Zealand, Turkey, China, and Tapei. In the UK, Mamma Mia! International Tour 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. To date, over 4 million people all over the world have now seen the musical.

ABBA MUSIC

Mamma Mia! has become a global entertainment phenomenon. It personalizes ABBA songs in a fresh, vital, and immediate way that simultaneously retains their pop integrity yet also does something more that is an essential requirement of good musical theatre. It also made ABBA GOLD back in album charts everywhere the show has played.

A legacy of extraordinary songs and worldwide record sales of over 360 million have ensured ABBA a lasting popularity. ABBA GOLD, first released in 1992, spent 206 weeks in the album charts, where it debuted at number one. It was re-issued in 1999 to commemorate ABBA’s 25th anniversary and remains one of the biggest selling music albums of all-time. With at least 3,500 records still being sold every day around the world, the ABBA phenomenon is seemingly unstoppable.

The production features 22 Of Abba’s Hits Including: Chiquitita, Dancing Queen, I Have A Dream, Knowing Me, Knowing You, The Winner Takes It All, Super Trouper, Take A Chance On Me and Voulez-Vous.

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.

Family Package: buy 4 tickets to get 40% discount on 3rd and 4th tickets. Groups of 20 or more can also get a 10% discount. Senior citizens also enjoy a 20% discount.

Book your tickets now! Call (632) 891 9999, or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.

SPONSORS

Mamma Mia! is presented by Infinity, powered by Smart and Citibank. Special thanks to San Miguel Premium All Malt Beer, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Dusit Thani Manila, Cebu Pacific Airlines, Ayala Cinemas, Ayala Malls and OOCL.

Mamma Mia! would like to thank media partners ABS-CBN, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Business World, Philippine Star, and Manila Bulletin, ETC, 2nd Avenue, Jack TV, Crossover 105.1 FM, Monster Radio RX 93.1, and Radio High 105.9FM. MAMMA MIA! is brought to you by Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, David Atkins Enterprises, Hi Definition Radio, Inc., and Concertus, Inc.

For block buying, sponsorships, call Concertus at (632) 403 8678 or Hi Definition Radio, Inc. at (632) 706 1580.

For more information, visit:

Mamma Mia! website

Mama Mia Manila Facebook Page.

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New Wave Independent Section of the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival: Screening Schedules (Dec. 17-21, 2011)

2011-12-16T14:50:00.000-08:00

The New Wave Independent Section films of the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) will be shown at Robinsons Galleria Cinema 3 (Ortigas, Pasig City) on December 17-21, 2011. There are two categories for this section: Full Length Indie Films and Student Short Films.

Here are the five (5) films that made the cut for the Full Length Indie category:
1. Dyagwar (Waley o Havey?) ni Direk Sid Pascua
2. HIV (Si Heidi, Si Ivy, at Si V) ni Direk Neal Tan
3. Ritwal ni Direk Yeng Grande
4. Haruo ni Direk Adolf Alix Jr.
5. Pintakasi directed by Lee Meily, Rep. Imee Marcos at Nelson Caguila.

The ten (10) Student Short Films that made the cut:
1. Adivino - Asia Pacific Film Institute (directed by Emil Joson)
2. Bagong Ligo - Mapua M.A.S. (directed by Abigail Trivino)
3. Biyahe ni Barbie - College of St. Benilde (directed by Kookai Labayen)
4. I See Everything - Southville International School (directed by Michael Jianoran)
5. Mate - Colegio de San Juan de Letran (directed by John Christian Nicolas)
6. Oras - International Academy of Film & Television, Cebu (directed by Paula Monika Manginsay)
7. Payaso - La Salle Lipa (directed by Eldric Pena)
8. Sanayan Lang Ang Pagpatay - Ateneo de Naga University (directed by Gil Joseph Sanchez)
9. Speechless - Miriam College (directed by Rinei Ledina)
10. Ulan - La Consolacion College (c/o Lito Casaje)

Screening Schedules

December 17, 2011

6 pm Gala Premiere (Student Shorts)
SANAYAN LANG ANG PAGPATAY- Ateneo de Naga
BAGONG LIGO - Mapua MAS

Independent Feature
HIV by Neal Tan

9pm Gala Premiere (Student Shorts)
BIYAHE NI BARBIE- De La Salle CSB
PAYASO - La Salle Lipa

Independent Feature
DYAGWAR by Sid Pascua

December 18, 2011

12 pm Student Shorts
BIYAHE NI BARBIE- De La Salle CSB
PAYASO - La Salle Lipa

Independent Feature
DYAGWAR by Sid Pascua

3pm Gala Premiere (Student Shorts)
ADIVINO- Asia Pacific Film Institute
MATE- Colegio de San Juan de Letran

Independent Feature
RITWAL by Yeng Grande

6 pm Gala Premiere (Student Shorts)
ORAS - International Academy of Film & Television- Cebu
SPEECHLESS- Colegio de San Juan de Letran-

Independent Feature
PINTAKASI by Lee Meily, Imee Marcos, Nelson Caguila

9pm Gala Premiere (Student Shorts)
I SEE EVERYTHING- Southville International School
ULAN- La Consolacion College

Independent Feature
HARUO by Adolf Alix Jr.

December 19, 2011

12 nn Student Shorts
ADIVINO- Asia Pacific Film Institute
MATE- Colegio de San Juan de Letran

Independent Feature
RITWAL by Yeng Grande

3pm Student Shorts
ORAS - International Academy of Film & Television- Cebu
SPEECHLESS- Miriam College

Independent Feature
PINTAKASI by Lee Meily, Imee Marcos, Nelson Caguila

6pm Gala Premiere (Student Shorts)
SANAYAN LANG ANG PAGPATAY- Ateneo de Naga
BAGONG LIGO- Mapua MAS

Independent Feature
HIV by Neal Tan

9pm Student Shorts
BIYAHE NI BARBIE- De La Salle CSB
PAYASO - La Salle Lipa

Independent Feature
DYAGWAR by Sid Pascua

December 20, 2011

12pm Student Shorts
I SEE EVERYTHING- Southville International School
ULAN- La Consolacion College

Independent Feature
HARUO by Adolf Alix Jr.

3pm
 SANAYAN LANG ANG PAGPATAY - Ateneo de Naga
BAGONG LIGO- Mapua MAS

Independent Feature
HIV by Neal Tan

6pm Student Shorts
ADIVINO- Asia Pacific Film Institute
MATE- Colegio de San Juan de Letran

Independent Feature
RITWAL by Yeng Grande

9pm Student Shorts
ORAS - International Academy of Film & Television- Cebu
SPEECHLESS- Miriam College

Independent Feature
PINTAKASI by Lee Meily, Imee Marcos, Nelson Caguila

December 21, 2011

11:30am Student Shorts
ORAS - International Academy of Film & Television- Cebu
SPEECHLESS- Miriam College

Independent Feature
PINTAKASI by Lee Meily, Imee Marcos, Nelson Caguila

2pm Student Shorts
I SEE EVERYTHING- Southville International School
ULAN- La Consolacion College

Independent Feature
Haruo by Adolf Alix Jr

430pm Student Shorts
BIYAHE NI BARBIE- De La Salle CSB
PAYASO - La Salle Lipa

Independent Feature
DYAGWAR by Sid Pascua

7pm
SANAYAN LANG ANG PAGPATAY- Ateneo de Naga
BAGONG LIGO- Mapua MAS

Independent Feature
HIV by Neal Tan

9:30 Student Shorts
ADIVINO- Asia Pacific Film Institute
MATE- Colegio de San Juan de Letran

Independent Feature
RITWAL by Yeng Grande

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Petition needed for the Director's Cut of Tikoy Aguiluz's film, "Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story"

2011-12-16T01:15:00.000-08:00

* click the image for larger view *

Director Amable “Tikoy” Aguiluz was surprised to know that there were scenes added to his film without his consent and knowledge. His new film, Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story is an official entry to the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival (2011).

Direk Tikoy Aguiluz

Aguiluz requested that his name be removed from all the advertising materials of the film such as posters, billboards and other online promotions. Since there were additional scenes, he doesn’t anymore consider it his work. Therefore he demands that he be allowed to make a Director’s Cut of the film to be shown during the film fest and which he can submit to international film festivals.

It is only appropriate for the producer (Scenema Concepts International) to ask the director’s permission to whatever plans they have on the film. Aguiluz was deprived of his creative and artistic freedom to have full control over the masterpiece he worked hard for.

Angel Enrico Mira Jr., Aguiluz’s lawyer, said that the production company “disregarded the rights and prerogatives of our client to make creative decisions based on the original and agreed version of the project.” Therefore, we implore the public and those who share the same cause of creative freedom and artistic integrity to sign in the following petition online initiated by Epoy Deyto of Kawts Kamote: (please wait for a few seconds to load completely)

Change.org|Start an Online Petition »

Official Trailer: Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story (2011)

SYNOPSIS [Source: Asiong Salonga on Facebook]

Tondo. The Ancient Gangland. Year 1950. Gangwars were in. Violence was the name of the game. Gangsters carried Thompson’s and grease guns in a Bayong. Police Characters were just too tough resulting in bloody encounters. All notorious hoodlums dreamt to be the King. But one smart and slippery hoodlum rose to power and reigned as King. He was the youngest and toughest Public Enemy No. 1 (Criminal) the Tondo Underworld ever bred. He was feared, respected and loved. A legendary Robin Hood in his time Tondo will never forget. His gang called him Hitler. Tondo remembers him by another name - ASIONG SALONGA. He robbed the rich to give to the poor. He lived and died by the gun. He lived fast and died young. This is his bloody career and salvage true-to-life story.

MTV of "La Paloma": Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story (2011)

"LA PALOMA" - Tagalog Version with English subtitles. Lyrics by Rey Ventura. Arranged and performed by Ely Buendia. This is the theme song for the film, Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story (2011) directed by Tikoy Aguiluz. A production of Scenema Concept International.

MTV of "Hari ng Tondo": Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story (2011)

"Hari Ng Tondo" is another theme song of the film which is sung by Gloc 9 and Denise Barbacena.

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Subic International Marathon 2012 (Jan 21-22, 2012)

2011-12-15T00:21:00.000-08:00

eXtribe, Inc. holds one of the biggest running events in the Philippines, the 6th Subic International Marathon (SIM) slated on January 21-22, 2012. The project forged new partnerships with CORPS Movement Foundation and Dilaab Movement as the beneficiaries to support their development programs.

The race course is a break from the usual city runs, with its internationally endorsed race course in the sprawling, lush green Remy Field in SBMA, Subic Olongapo City.

“Running has easily become a favored activity because it’s easy and accessible to anyone. But we would like to make a difference by making running a direct approach to push transformation of individuals and the community. With the discipline attached to running, members of the community tend to live healthy and clean to meet the demands of their running game,” said Retired General Sammy Tucay.

“The discipline and clean living fostered by running trickles down to how these individuals act in their community,” added Ret. Gen. Sammy Tucay, Founder and Chairman Subic International Marathon.

Runners can expect a safe, clean, and cool run with rest facilities in the race course in every turn-around point for the 5, 10, 21 and 42k races; committed hydrating station within every 1.5km; full medical support in case of emergency; RFID Accurate Timing System, and; an uncrowded run with the split-schedule of the races:

3K and 5K races are set on January 21 (Saturday afternoon)
10K, 21K and 42K races are set on January 22 (Sunday morning)

“The way we are organizing the Subic International Marathon is focused on making sure that our runners will have a satisfying and memorable experience. Eventually, we hope that our efforts will make SIM one of the premier running events in the Philippines that will attract international marathoners. And, that will set the stage in making the Philippines a recognized member of the global running community,” said Eric Imperio, President of eXtribe, Inc.

Registration Fees:

P50.00 for the 3k

P150.00 for the 5K

P600.00 for the 10K

P700.00 for the 21K

P800.00 for the 42K

Participants of the 10K, 21K and 42K races can vie for the cash prizes, amounting to over P100,000.00.

Race Maps

* click the images below for larger view *

10K

21K

42K

Runners can register from November 22, 2011 to January 15, 2012. Registration sites are at New Balance Glorietta, New Balance Shangri-La, and New Balance Trinoma. Registration at New Balance Marquee Mall Pampanga and in Subic started on December 8, 2011.

The 2012 Subic International Marathon is co-produced by eXtribe, Inc., in partnership with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, and supported by PAGCOR, Casino Filipino, ABS-CBN Sports – the official TV partner of the 2012 Subic International Marathon, Discovery Suites, Total Fitness Magazine, Pinoy Fitness and New Balance.

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Philippine Madrigal Singers presents "inTENse" at the CCP (Dec. 17-18, 2011)

2011-12-13T12:18:00.000-08:00

As a thanksgiving to their recent success on international soil this year and Mark Anthony Carpio's 10th year as choirmaster, the Philippine Madrigal Singers presents inTENse at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo of the Cultural Center of the Philippines on December 17, 2011 at 8:00 PM and December 18, 2011 at 5:00 PM.

Presented by the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the concert also aims to celebrate the season with renditions of timeless Christmas songs given interesting and unique twists.

For tickets, please call CCP Box Office: (632) 832-3704, TicketWorld: (632) 891-9999, or Chichi Abella (+63.915.6963983).

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How to feel miserable as an Artist

2011-12-12T15:27:00.000-08:00

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The Intersections & Beyond

PETA's "Haring Lear," an adaptation of William Shakespeare's play (Jan 27-Mar 4, 2012)

69th Golden Globe Award Winners & Nominees (2012)

"Bourne Legacy" shooting in Malate, Manila

180 Microcinema Festival Narrative 2012: Philippine Premiere at Power Plant Cinema (Jan. 7, 2012)

Repertory Philippines presents "Next Fall" (Jan. 13-Feb. 5, 2012)

A symposium on "Philippine Film: History & Criticism" at UP-Diliman (Jan 13, 2012)

"The Bourne Legacy" film looking for crowd talents

Fireworks Display for 2012 Countdown: My Top 3 Picks (London, Sydney & Dubai)

MMFF 2010, 2011 & Beyond: 10 Points

Jose Rizal: The First Hero (a documentary)

Actor Tyron Perez found dead inside his car in Valenzuela

37th Metro Manila Film Festival Winners (2011)

The New Wave Independent Section of the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival was shown on December 17-21, 2011). The winners are:

6th Spring Film Festival in Manila (Jan 20-29, 2012)

Note: This movie is also the first to cast Jet Li in a non-kung-fu film where he won the 2010 Wen Zhang Best Actor Award; The movie was also recognized by the Shanghai Media Awards, CCTV Movie Channel Media Awards 2010 and Golden Goblet Award.

Note: Stars Chow Yun-Fat as Confucius, Nominated for Best Actor at the 30th Hong Kong Film Awards. Other nominations include Best Cinematography, Art Design, Costume Design and Original Song.

Note: This action-historical movie garnered numerous awards from the 4th Asian Film Awards, 29th Hongkong Film Awards, 16th Hongkong Film Critics Society Awards and 47th Golden Horse Awards.

Note: This movie became the highest grossing Chinese Animated film of all time and received the Best Animated Film of the 13th Huabiao Awards.

Write about an invention and win a Limited Edition BPI Globe Tattoo stick + other exciting prizes!

Tanghalang Pilipino's "Eyeball" features 4 plays (Jan 13-Feb 12, 2012)

Mr. Brazil is Mister International 2011

New 1-peso coin commemorates Jose Rizal’s 150th birthday

Top 10 Most Viewed Youtube Videos of 2011

The 12 Shoppers of Christmas: Which one are you?

"Mamma Mia!" in Manila (Jan 24-Feb 12, 2012)

New Wave Independent Section of the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival: Screening Schedules (Dec. 17-21, 2011)

12pm Student Shorts I SEE EVERYTHING- Southville International School ULAN- La Consolacion College Independent Feature HARUO by Adolf Alix Jr.

3pm SANAYAN LANG ANG PAGPATAY - Ateneo de NagaBAGONG LIGO- Mapua MAS

7pm SANAYAN LANG ANG PAGPATAY- Ateneo de Naga BAGONG LIGO- Mapua MAS Independent Feature HIV by Neal Tan 9:30 Student Shorts ADIVINO- Asia Pacific Film Institute MATE- Colegio de San Juan de Letran Independent Feature RITWAL by Yeng Grande

Petition needed for the Director's Cut of Tikoy Aguiluz's film, "Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story"

Subic International Marathon 2012 (Jan 21-22, 2012)

Philippine Madrigal Singers presents "inTENse" at the CCP (Dec. 17-18, 2011)

How to feel miserable as an Artist

12pm Student Shorts
I SEE EVERYTHING- Southville International School
ULAN- La Consolacion College

Independent Feature
HARUO by Adolf Alix Jr.

3pm
 SANAYAN LANG ANG PAGPATAY - Ateneo de Naga
BAGONG LIGO- Mapua MAS

7pm
SANAYAN LANG ANG PAGPATAY- Ateneo de Naga
BAGONG LIGO- Mapua MAS

Independent Feature
HIV by Neal Tan

9:30 Student Shorts
ADIVINO- Asia Pacific Film Institute
MATE- Colegio de San Juan de Letran

Independent Feature
RITWAL by Yeng Grande