lifestyle and culture

February 26, 2024

Dune: Part Two debuts with a 97% Rotten Tomatoes critics’ score

Rave reviews are flowing in as critics praise Dune: Part Two, Denis Villeneuve’s highly anticipated action spectacle. With a 97% certified fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the critics’ consensus is that Dune: Part Two is visually thrilling and narratively epic.
Continuing the streak from its predecessor, Dune: Part Two lands with a success for reviewers. The Independent writes, “Dune: Part Two, like its predecessor, is a work of total sensory and imaginative immersion.” Total Film adds the movie to the hall of beloved sequels, saying, “However you cut it, Villeneuve wrangles coherence from Herbert’s unruly elements to deliver a sequel that ranks alongside The Dark Knight, The Empire Strikes Back – and Blade Runner 2049.”

The Guardian praises director Denis Villeneuve’s vision for the film, “The second part of Denis Villeneuve’s monumental Dune adaptation lands with a sternum-juddering crash; it’s another shroom of a film, an epic sci-fi hallucination whose images speak of fascism and imperialism, of guerrilla resistance and romance.”

Kudos also abound for the cast performance, with The New York Post lending focus to Timothée Chalamet’s performance as Paul Atreides. “But the series’ grounding force continues to be Chalamet. After singing and wisecracking as Willy Wonka, he’s back to his bread and butter: brooding and stoic contemplation. It’s in this second chapter, however, that we realize how perfect the actor is for Paul,” they write.


Rolling Stone also takes note of Chalamet’s take on the protagonist, saying, “But this act is also where you see Paul Atreides come into his own, and by extension, the actor who plays him. Part Two is where you see a boy having grown into a man, who then evolves into a reluctant — and eventually not-so-reluctant — savior.”

Not to be outdone, Zendaya’s performance as the warrior Chani was also a highlight of the film, with IGN writing, “The Fremen will need to be united to stand against the forces of the Imperium, and the sacrifices and compromises that Chani make constantly ground the story with help from Zendaya’s direct, steely performance.”

Watch the interstellar action rise to greater heights as Dune: Part Two arrives in Philippine cinemas on February 28.
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“EXHUMA,” Opens at No. 1 in Korea, Breaking Box Office Records

The mystery occult film Exhuma, starring Choi Min-Shik, Kim Go-Eun, Yoo Hae-Jin and Lee Do-Hyun, opened strong at No. 1 at the Korean box office, holding on to the top spot on its entire opening weekend and setting the biggest opening record in Korea for 2024 thus far.

Prior to its debut in cinemas on February 22, Exhuma set a new record for pre-sale numbers with a 54% real-time reservation rate and 369.99 million advance bookings, even in the face of tough competition.
Lee Do Hyun and Kim Go-Eun portray talented shamans in Exhuma

The star-studded mystery thriller also achieved the impressive feat of surpassing 2 million moviegoers after just four days in cinemas. According to the Korean Film Council, as of the morning of February 26, Exhuma had already recorded a total of 2,299,706 moviegoers since its opening on February 22.

Directed by Jang Jae-Hyun (Svaha: The Sixth Finger, The Priests), Exhuma tells the story of two talented shamans, a geomancer and a mortician tasked to find a mysterious grave – and unknowingly unleash a malevolent force buried underneath.






Find out what lies beneath the grave when Exhuma opens in Philippine cinemas March 20
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February 23, 2024

A 'Skadoosh' recap of all Kung Fu Panda movies by Jack Black

Jack Black is crushing it in his super awesome rapid recap of the first three Kung Fu Panda movies, to get everyone up to speed in time for Kung Fu Panda 4, in cinemas March 6.
Watch Black recap Kung Fu Panda 1, 2 and 3 in 1 minute and 25 seconds. Skadoosh!


After three death-defying adventures defeating world-class villains with his unmatched courage and mad martial arts skills, Po, the Dragon Warrior (Golden Globe nominee Jack Black), is called upon by destiny to… give it a rest already. More specifically, he’s tapped to become the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace.

Before he can assume his new position (of which Po knows nothing about), he must first find and train a new Dragon Warrior. But a wicked, powerful sorceress, Chameleon (Oscar® winner Viola Davis), a tiny lizard who can shapeshift into any creature, has her greedy, beady little eyes on Po’s Staff of Wisdom, which would give her the power to re-summon all the master villains whom Po has vanquished to the spirit realm.
To stop Chameleon, Po finds help in the form of crafty, quick-witted thief Zhen (Golden Globe winner Awkwafina), a corsac fox who really gets under Po’s fur but whose skills will prove invaluable. In their quest to protect the Valley of Peace from Chameleon’s reptilian claws, this comedic odd-couple duo will have to work together. In the process, Po will discover that heroes can be found in the most unexpected places.
The film features the voice talent of returning stars Academy Award® winner Dustin Hoffman as Kung Fu master, Shifu; James Hong (Everything Everywhere All at Once) as Po’s adoptive father, Mr. Ping; Emmy Award winner Bryan Cranston as Po’s birth father, Li; and Emmy Award nominee Ian McShane as Tai Lung, Shifu’s former student and arch-nemesis. Oscar® winner Ke Huy Quan (Everything Everywhere All at Once) joins the ensemble as a new character, Han, the leader of the Den of Thieves.

A must-watch for the entire family, Kung Fu Panda 4 opens in Philippine cinemas March 6. 
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February 20, 2024

UFC brings KIM SEON HO Back in Manila for a COLOR+FULL Fanmeet

South Korean actor Kim Seon Ho will be coming to Manila, Philippines as part of his 2024 Asia fan meeting tour. The prominent actor is set to meet his Filipino fans on April 13, 2024 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.
Get a chance to be part of Kim Seon Ho’s upcoming “Color+Full” in Manila fan meeting tour when you purchase any of the exclusive fan packages. All the attendees can take home an official poster, an exclusive merch pack, and a UFC gift pack. There are also a lot of fan benefits to look forward to such as a Hi-Bye session, a group photo, special exclusive event poster, signed postcards, and signed poster.

Presented to you by UFC the fan packages for the fan meeting are now available for purchase at makeitlive.asia. All the tiers are seated and reserved seating with the following prices:
  • Ultimate Good Boy Feast (VVIP) - PHP 12,000.00
  • Hometown Chow Chow Chow (VIP) - PHP 11,000.00
  • Mr. Dimples - All Occasion Faves (Patron) - PHP 9,500.00
  • Start Up, Feast Up (Lower Box Premium) - PHP 8,500.00
  • Start Up, Snack Up (Lower Box Regular) - PHP 7,000.00
  • Frycious Banjang Fest (Upper Box) - PHP 3,500.00
  • K-Treat Bundle (General Admission) - PHP 1,500.00
Kim Seon Ho began his career on stage and appeared in numerous plays such as “Sherlock Holmes,” “New Boeing Boeing,” “True West,” “Closer,” and “Voice of Millenium” before making his debut in the 2017 drama “Good Manager.” He started acting as a way to overcome his childhood trauma and enrolled in an acting academy during high school. Serious about his craft, he later pursued a degree in Broadcasting and Entertainment at the Seoul Institute of the Arts.

The actor later rose to prominence with his role in the 2020 hit television series “Start-Up.” His popularity only grew even more when he took on the lead role in the 2021 drama “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha”, and in the noir film “The Childe.” He won awards such as Gallup Korea’s Actor Of The Year in 2021, and the New Actor Award at the 59th Grand Bell Awards and Buil Film Awards.

Apart from starring in other dramas like “100 Days My Prince,” “Welcome to Waikiki 2,” and “Run On,” he also sold out shows for stage plays like “Ice,” and “Touching The Void.” However, his breakthrough performance that earned the hearts of many people is his appearance as part of the cast in the KBS2 reality show “2 Days & 1 Night.” This led him to be chosen as the face of many brands in South Korea and Southeast Asia. Many brands achieved record sales thanks to the actor and labeled this success as “The Kim Seon Ho Effect.”

The Philippines has always loved Kim Seon Ho’s good boy charms and his versatility as an actor. The best boy Kim Seon Ho is back to charm his way to your heart as UFC Mixes together with Fanconsea and MakeitLive brings Kim Seon Ho’s “Color+Full” Fan Meeting in Manila!
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Chinabank welcomes the Year of the Dragon with Michelle Dee as brand ambassador

Chinabank has signed up its first ever brand ambassador, the reigning Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Marquez Dee. The collaboration was formalized on February 14, 2024 at the Chinabank head office in Makati City.

The beauty queen, actress, host, athlete, and model is a fitting and inspiring representative for Chinabank. Michelle, who has won the hearts and minds of Filipinos and the world with her charisma, authenticity, and sense of purpose, is redefining contemporary Filipino culture on a global stage.  Her lifelong autism acceptance and inclusivity advocacy has led her to a degree in BS Psychology and to use her platform and her work with the Autism Society of the Philippines to create awareness about the condition. With Michelle on board, Chinabank is strengthening its brand presence and building a profound connection with the new generation of dynamic and forward-thinking banking customers.

“This engagement with Michelle Dee signifies the beginning of many things to come. For us, Michelle is family.  But beyond her obvious lineage to the bank's co-founders, we firmly believe that Michelle has the qualities to aptly represent a bank with a storied history and an unwavering commitment to building an inclusive and sustainable future for every Filipino,” Chinabank President & CEO Romeo D. Uyan Jr. said during the contract signing.

Michelle expressed her happiness and excitement for her new role, noting that she and Chinabank are a good fit as they share the same high regard for building trust, making an impact, and bringing about change.

“Chinabank isn’t just any bank, it’s been a beacon of trust and resilience for over a century.  Now that’s a lot of years of making a difference in people’s lives and making dreams come true, but it’s also the spirit of making a difference that really resonates with every Filipino heart,” she said. “I would like to keep it real.  I’m here to share my stories and the incredible work Chinabank does…  I can’t wait to make memories and make such ground breaking opportunities for everyone around us as well.”

Chinabank founder Dee C. Chuan was Michelle Dee’s paternal grand-uncle.  Her grandfather was former Chinabank Chairman Dee K. Chiong whose leadership shaped the bank into prominence.  He also led the bank’s early foray into computer technology, becoming the first bank in Southeast Asia to process deposit accounts online.

Chinabank is the fourth largest private universal bank in the Philippines. The bank is set to launch an advertising campaign featuring Michelle as it continues to innovate and improve its products and services with a keen focus on its customers.

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February 15, 2024

Celebrating Chinese New Year at Amiya Raya: A Spectacle of Tradition and Feng Shui

Amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Metro Manila skyline, Amiya Raya recently played host to a vibrant and culturally enriching celebration of the Chinese New Year. The event, held at the prestigious residential community, captivated attendees with a fusion of traditional performances, insightful feng shui wisdom, and the stunning allure of nature's canvas.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the mesmerizing dragon and lion dance performance, which unfolded against the backdrop of a resplendent sunset. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the cityscape, the rhythmic movements of the dragon and lion dancers brought the ancient symbolism of the Chinese New Year to life. In Chinese Culture, the lion symbolizes strength, stability and superiority, while the dragon represents power, boldness and excellence. Dances for both the auspicious creatures are performed during festive occasions as a means to chase away evil spirits and welcome in prosperous times.
Adding depth to the celebration was a special feng shui outlook presented by an esteemed international feng shui master. Attendees had the unique opportunity to gain insights into the ancient art of feng shui and its profound influence on harmony and balance in living spaces. The master's guidance provided valuable perspectives on harnessing positive energy flows and optimizing the spiritual essence of the environment.
In a personalized touch, property owners at Amiya Raya received individual feng shui advice tailored to their residences. This bespoke service underscored the community's commitment to holistic well-being and its recognition of the profound interplay between architecture, nature, and spiritual energy.

Be part of the Amiya Raya community through your own Shanti condominium unit - a medium rise, low density condominium that not only gives you a chance to own a piece of Amiya Raya but also a real estate investment that earns for you.
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February 14, 2024

Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides attempts to ride a sandworm in this “Dune: Part Two” sneak peek.

The scale becomes even more epic as Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two picks up where 2021’s Dune left off. New characters sweep into the vast world, as the adventure sets off with even more stunning visuals and thrilling action sequences.
Dune: Part Two continues the story of Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet), now away from his home and propelled by fate into an intergalactic power struggle. As he journeys with the Fremen people, he tries to gain their confidence with the support of Chani (Zendaya) and Stilgar (Javier Bardem). To prepare for their continuous revolt against the tyrannical Harkonnens, and to truly be a part of the Fremen, Paul takes one of their most dangerous trials. Watch here:


The Harkonnens carry on pillaging Arrakis for spice, which the Fremen have been violently opposing. As tensions escalate and the Harkonnens gather forces, the Baron (Stellan Skarsgård) lets one of his more vicious and bloodthirsty nephews, Feyd-Rautha (Austin Butler) take part in the war. Them and the other royal families serve the Emperor (Christopher Walken), previously unseen in 2021’s Dune. In Dune: Part Two we are taken to his realm, and that of his daughter, Princess Irulan (Florence Pugh).

The themes of the film are both timeless and timely, as love and loyalty, humanity versus nature, take center stage in Dune: Part Two. On one side are the Fremen who have adapted to their native land of the desert, surviving by being one with it and learning to live alongside its harsh nature. On the other lie the Harkonnens who’ve epitomized corruption and greed. Paul Atreides is at the center of the struggle, battling the people that eradicated his clan while fighting against the destiny that was handed to him.

Watch as the journey reaches greater heights as Dune: Part Two arrives in Philippine cinemas on February 28.
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