Wicked (Part 1) Review: A Magical and Emotional Return to Oz

Years after taking Broadway by storm, Wicked finally makes its long-awaited debut on the big screen. With Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, this cinematic adaptation of the beloved musical is set to captivate both die-hard fans and newcomers alike. The global success of the stage production has set high expectations, and the film delivers, adding a fresh layer of magic for those eager to explore the backstory of The Wizard of Oz.

"Defying Gravity" Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba

From the very first scene, Wicked transports audiences back to the vibrant land of Oz. The world-building is visually stunning, with Munchkinland, Shiz University, and the Emerald City brought to life in exquisite detail. The film's production design is nothing short of magical, with sweeping landscapes and intricate set pieces that immerse us in a world both familiar and entirely new.

The performances are at the heart of this adaptation. Ariana Grande impresses with her powerful, operatic vocals, especially in her early scenes as Glinda. Her portrayal of the popular, bubbly witch is endearing and, at times, surprisingly grounded. Cynthia Erivo, however, is the true standout. She brings a depth and emotional richness to Elphaba, capturing the character's vulnerability, defiance, and ultimately, her iconic "wickedness." Erivo’s performance, both vocally and emotionally, gives Elphaba the justice she deserves, turning her into a character that we can’t help but love, even as she’s misunderstood.

The visuals of Oz are breathtaking, and the film’s direction ensures that every scene feels like a spectacle. I found myself particularly moved during Elphaba’s solo dance at the Ozdust Ballroom—a hauntingly beautiful moment that symbolizes her inner turmoil and longing for acceptance. The sequence, set to the haunting “Defying Gravity,” is a powerful reminder of why this story resonates so deeply with audiences. It’s a moment of liberation and defiance, both poignant and exhilarating.

"Popular" Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo

The film also pays homage to the 1939 Wizard of Oz movie with several subtle easter eggs and references. Keep an eye out for the iconic ruby slippers and some familiar nods to the original, giving longtime fans a delightful sense of continuity. There are also moments that echo the stage musical, ensuring that Wicked enthusiasts will feel right at home while still experiencing something fresh and exciting.

A standout part of the ensemble cast includes Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, who brings charm and complexity to his role, while Michelle Yeoh’s Madame Morrible is as imposing and mysterious as ever. Jeff Goldblum adds a quirky spin to the Wizard, while Marissa Bode, Ethan Slater, and Peter Dinklage round out the talented cast with strong supporting performances.

Directed by Jon Chu (Crazy Rich Asians), Wicked Part 1 is an epic, visually stunning, and emotionally resonant film that makes a powerful case for why this story has endured for decades. The film strikes a delicate balance between spectacle and heart, making it a must-see event for fans of the musical, The Wizard of Oz, and anyone who loves a good story of friendship, defiance, and self-discovery.

Opening today in theaters, Wicked Part 1 is best experienced on the biggest screen possible, preferably IMAX, where its grandeur can truly be appreciated. Don’t miss this magical journey to Oz—it’s one you won’t forget.

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Fall into “Sweet Nothings: The Denise Julia Experience” Concert

Trending artist Denise Julia will be lighting up the stage with her very first concert “Sweet Nothings: The Denise Julia Experience” happening on December 14, 2024 at the New Frontier Theatre at Cubao, Quezon City. Her show will feature amazing artists, her catchy hit singles and the first live performance of her latest music drop ‘Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2)’.

The “Sweet Nothings: The Denise Julia Experience” concert offers affordable prices as the artist herself wanted to make sure it's accessible to all of her fans who have been supporting her from the beginning of her music career. Fan benefit add-ons are also available for an opportunity for fans to connect with her up close with available options of Sound Check and Hi-Bye.

TICKET PRICES:

• VIP (Standing) - PHP 2,935.00
• LOGE (Seated) - PHP 1,601.00
• BALCONY (Seated) - PHP 1,121.00

VIP ADD ONS:

• Soundcheck Only - PHP 2,435.00
• Soundcheck & Hi-Bye Session - PHP 2,935.00

Denise Julia is a Filipino R&B Artist, songwriter and producer born, raised and currently based in Manila. She began writing songs at 13 years old and started releasing original music at the age of 18. After a string of music releases and cover videos that garnered millions of views on Tik Tok, Denise caught the world’s attention with her viral song "NVMD".

“NVMD” is the fastest and only OPM song by a solo Filipina artist to reach 200M streams on Spotify and it reached the Top 20 of Spotify’s Global Viral chart. Since then she has released multiple hit singles, reached 1.5million followers on Tik Tok, was chosen as Spotify’s RADAR Artist of 2024, and released a streaming and critically acclaimed EP called ‘Sweet Nothings (Chapter 1)’. You may have heard of her music with titles such as the aforementioned “NVMD,” “Butterflies,” “Sugar N’ Spice,” and “B.A.D.”

Known for her classic R&B fused with a modern edge, her catchy music and its messages are a slam book of memories she’s experienced. Denise’s fans dubbed her as the Patron Saint of Situationships, usually citing her lyrics across their social media platforms, because of her music’s relatability. Apart from having a strong social media presence, she also has a strong fanbase, with popularity skyrocketing thanks to her recent 9-track EP release “Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2)” and single “better than he does.”

The 9-track EP immediately shot up into the Top 3 of the Apple Music Philippines Album chart, making it the only OPM album in the Top 10. Denise’s album, which was mostly written by her, captures the essence of 90s / 2000s R&B and paints the bittersweet moments that are difficult to put into words alone and better expressed through music.

Denise Julia is definitely one to watch as this homegrown Filipina is already taking the world by storm, not only through music but through her achievements as a rising R&B artist as well. Billboard US listed her single “twin flames” as an R&B/Hip-Hop Fresh Picks of the Week back in July. Last November 2023, she topped the Spotify Top OPM Female Artists List and held the #1 spot for 3 consecutive months. Denise also surpassed 200 million streams on Spotify with a single song, making her the first female OPM artist with this feat.

She was also nominated for the MYX Music Awards 2024 for 4 categories: Breakout Solo Artist of the Year, Collaboration of the Year (B.A.D featuring P-Lo), R&B Video of the Year (B.A.D featuring P-Lo), and Music Video of the Year (B.A.D featuring P-Lo ). She was also nominated for the 2024 AWIT Awards for Best R&B Song (B.A.D featuring P-Lo).

Presented to you by One Entertainment, tickets are available in all Ticketnet Outlets and online at www.ticketnet.com.ph. There are fan benefit add-ons available only for the VIP ticket tier. Denise Julia will surely give a mesmerizing show to remember as One Entertainment, in partnership with KDR Music House and 2ndFloor Entertainment, sets the stage for the “Sweet Nothings: The Denise Julia Experience” Concert in Manila!

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Picking up on TINY BEAUTIFUL THINGS

At the matinee performance of Tiny Beautiful Things by The Sandbox Collective, I found myself reflecting on lessons that could enrich our daily lives. The show gently tugs at the heartstrings, but in the best possible way—it lifts you up, giving you a sense of strength and courage. It’s a letter of advice you didn’t realize you needed, one that quietly reminds you of your own resilience.

One of my favorite lines, “Dear Sugar,” encapsulates the heart of the play. The letters of advice are intimate, personal, and delivered with such warmth that they feel almost like a conversation with an old friend. The experience was immersive—not just as a spectator, but as someone who could relate deeply to the themes of vulnerability and compassion. I found myself longing for the art of writing letters again, the kind that offer anonymous solace and the freedom to express without judgment.

The cast, led by Iza Calzado, Rody Vera, Ketchup Eusebio, and Gabby Padilla, are nothing short of outstanding. They are mirrors of us all, embodying the struggles, hopes, and messy realities that Cheryl Strayed’s Dear Sugar column addresses. Through their performances, we see our own lives reflected—our challenges, our triumphs, and our need for a little guidance when life gets tough. Tiny Beautiful Things reminds us that we are all connected in our shared humanity. We may be luckier or less fortunate than others, but we’ve all been—or will be—Cheryl at some point in our lives.

Directed by Jenny Jamora, Tiny Beautiful Things is the opening production of The Sandbox Collective's 10th season. The show is currently running at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater in Ayala Circuit, Makati, and will run until December 8, 2024. Tickets are available through thesandboxco.com or via Ticket2Me.

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Sergei Kravinoff becomes "Kraven the Hunter" in bloody new vignette

“This is Sergei Kravinoff becoming Kraven,” actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson talks about his character’s journey into becoming the iconic villain, and his own adventures of stunts and training in the “Making of a Villain” vignette from Kraven the Hunter.

Kraven the Hunter is the visceral, action-packed origin story of how and why one of Marvel’s most iconic villains came to be. Aaron Taylor-Johnson plays Kraven, a man whose complex relationship with his ruthless father, Nikolai Kravinoff (Russell Crowe), starts him down a path of vengeance with brutal consequences, motivating him to become not only the greatest hunter in the world, but also one of its most feared.

Watch the redband vignette:

“I’m so lucky I get to do the stunts. Old school, real, raw, barefoot running through the streets of London. Doing flips and running off the wall, because you needed to have that kind of authenticity,” Taylor-Johnson continues. “He’s [Kraven’s] not a superhero. He’s a man who’s been trained and is a skilled hunter and killer.”

Director J.C. Chandor also weighs in on the tragic background of Kraven: “There was some element of bloodlust that he [Kraven] seems to love,” Chandor says. “There was a justification for it, and that feels good. But he is also this very inconsistent, ethically compromised individual, but yet, still, you’re rooting for him.”

Starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ariana DeBose, Fred Hechinger, Alessandro Nivola, Christopher Abbott and Russell Crowe.

Opening in Philippine cinemas on December 11, Kraven the Hunter is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #KravenTheHunter

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Amiya Raya kicks off the holiday celebrations with a Toy-story themed Halloween party

A community widens the home that you go to. Known for its high-end, modern, and spacious properties, Amiya Raya always makes sure to integrate a sense of belongingness and family for the dwellers of the fast-growing development.

With the holiday season unfolding, the community had a special treat for the kids and kids at heart. A wickedly enjoyable Halloween celebration was held at Amiya Raya’s Club Vihara, a modern and airy place developed for leisure and entertainment. The Toy Story themed event was brought to life by families and friends who attended it. Children proudly displayed their colorful and creative costumes inspired by the renowned cartoon, with characters like Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Space Aliens, and many other toys filling up the space.

Meaning Hindu-Sanskrit, “a view that delights the senses,” asian-themed Amiya Raya makes resort living accessible, just a few minutes away from Quezon City at San Mateo Rizal. It is one of the fastest growing municipalities in the province of Rizal located near the majestic Sierra Madre mountains, home to a majestic view that can be enjoyed with family and friends. To add to this, the development is also 240 meters above sea level and offers a cooler climate and flood-free zone.

Its newly launched residential land Pradhana Residences, the Sanskrit word for Prime, is situated in an elevated position that ensures unparalleled panoramic views. It is the most coveted location in Amiya Raya, with a majestic view reserved for a select few.

One of the most significant advantages of Pradhana Residences by Amiya Raya is its affordability relative to the luxury subdivisions in Metro Manila. While property prices in the city have escalated to levels that deter even the most determined buyers, Pradhana Residences by Amiya Raya offers spacious open lots at a fraction of the cost. This affordability does not come at the expense of exclusivity or quality; instead, it provides a more balanced investment opportunity. Buyers can acquire large, open lots with breathtaking views, all within a secure, well-planned community, without compromising on their aspirations for luxury living.

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DITO Extends Support to Typhoon Kristine Victims

In response to the recent wraths caused by typhoon Kristine, DITO Telecommunity provided technological and funding support to communities heavily affected by the recent calamity.

Through DITO's platform Galing DITO CampX, a school caravan program aimed at empowering students with the company's digital products and services. DITO, in partnership with Batangas State University (BSU), recently held a school concert featuring Galing DITO ambassadors and Pinoy pop boy group Alamat. Ticket sales amounting to Php 250,000 were donated to "PB is UNITED, PB is ONE for Batangas," BSU's fundraising campaign, to support immediate relief efforts such as essential supplies, temporary shelters, food packs, and other rebuilding efforts.

Alamat with students of Batangas State University

Part of the proceeds also went to the construction of a Multi-Faith Chapel, supporting BSU's initiative towards creating a space for unity and reflection around the school campus.

"At DITO, we believe in the strength of community and the power of coming together in times of adversity," said Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business. "Our hearts go out to those affected by typhoon Kristine, and through this event and our other efforts, we aim to bring relief and hope to those in need. This is also our way of standing in solidarity with the Filipino people, showing that we're here to extend a helping hand when challenges arise," Jimenez added.

Alamat performance at Batangas State University

During the Galing DITO CampX, BSU students also had the chance to enjoy interactive booths and learn more about DITO's mobile prepaid, postpaid, and home products, including other over-the-top (OTT) services.

BSU students enjoying the interactive booths during the GalingDITO CampX school caravan

"The typhoon left devastated hearts, but on the other hand, we're glad to see the ‘Bayanihan’ spirit and strong community resilience, especially in the eyes of the students. We're also thankful for DITO's support; it increased the morale of our students, and the funds provided essential support to the victims of the typhoon," said Ran Drick Kenneth Umali, SSC President of BSU.

The Galing DITO CampX also recently went to Ateneo De Davao University, giving students access to non-stop entertainment and an opportunity to learn more about DITO's mobile and home products that suit their needs.

Enhanced technological support in Naga City
Meanwhile, in Naga City, DITO also provided technological support to aid the relief operations of typhoon Kristine's aftermath.

DITO supported the local government by providing mobile phones with SIM cards and load, which call line operators used. DITO also deployed several booths with free calls, WiFi access, and charging stations in Barangay Dayangdang, Lerma, and Triangulo.

Moreover, the local team also conducted immediate speed and network assessment, ensuring smooth and augmented network signals around the city.

"In times of crisis, connectivity is essential for emergency response and families to stay connected with their loved ones. We extended technological support in Naga City, ensuring reliable communication and internet access. We hope that these humble contributions aided relief efforts and facilitated efficient communication around the city," Jimenez said.

For more details about DITO Telecommunity, check out @DITOphofficial on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok or visit https://dito.ph/.

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Twelve Ways to Save on foodpanda Deals This November!

Experience unbeatable discounts, perks, and surprises every day throughout November!

Revel in with your favorite foodpanda delights as we countdown to the holiday season with non-stop savings all November! Get exclusive deals and perks that make it easy on the budget – whether you're preparing for holiday feasts or just enjoying your everyday meals. From discounts to cashback offers, foodpanda has everything you need to make your November extra special and your wallet extra happy!

Day 1: First-Timer Deals
Get your foodpanda experience off to a great start! Enjoy up to 50% off your first food delivery with NEWPANDA, plus free delivery. It's the perfect way to dive into your first order!

Day 2: Pick-Up Perks
Why wait? Enjoy 20% off your first pick-up order with NEWPANDA. Grab your favorite food to-go and save on your pick-up order!

Day 3: Grocery Goodies
Save Php 150 off your first grocery order with NEWSHOPPER! Whether you’re craving snacks from pandamart, fresh produce from Puregold, pantry essentials from Robinsons Supermarket, or bulk buys from Shopwise, this deal has you covered. Stock up and save big on your first grocery run with foodpanda’s partner stores and more!

Day 4: pandapro Plan Deal
Unlock a whole new world of perks with pandapro. Enjoy 50% off a 6-month pandapro plan using the code PASKOPRO. Free delivery, exclusive discounts, and more—this deal is one for the true foodies!

Day 5: Restaurant and Grocery Discount
Get up to Php 200 off food orders and groceries with PASKONA! Whether it's a meal or pantry essentials, this is the ultimate deal to save on both.

Day 6: Payday Cashback
Cashback alert! Get Php 500 cashback on orders from Nov 13-15 and Nov 28-30 with PAYDAY. Stock up on food, enjoy the savings, and use it to treat yourself!

Day 7: Monday Motivation
Start your week strong with Php 200 off all orders every Monday using MON200 (from 10 AM), and get that push to power through the first day of the week!

Day 8: Tuesday Treat
Keep the momentum going with another Php 200 off every Tuesday using TUES200 (from 10 AM). Get extra for your meals and get the good vibes rolling!

Day 9: Weekend Boost
Enjoy Php 300 cashback every weekend with WEEKENDER (Fri-Sun). Get your weekend meals delivered with some extra savings to start your weekend off right.

Day 10: Pick-Up Savings
Save Php 100 on pick-up dinner orders (5-8 PM) using DINNER. Plus, get up to 10% off with PICKUP (up to 15% for pandapro members). Pick up your meal and save even more!

Day 11: pandapro Exclusive
Enjoy up to 10% cashback with PROCB! Get up to 20% off at selected restaurants and unlimited free delivery on orders over Php 400. It’s a pandapro member’s dream deal!

Day 12: Extra Grocery Savings
Fill your cart with savings! Get Php 500 cashback with SUPERMARKETS and Php 100 cashback with MORESHOPS—perfect for stocking up on all your essentials.

Don’t let these amazing savings pass you by! Take advantage of the Non-Stop November Savings and treat yourself to more of the food you love, all while keeping your budget in check. Whether it’s holiday prep or everyday cravings, foodpanda is your perfect partner. Happy saving, and here’s to a deliciously affordable November!

For more information about foodpanda and the incredible offers available, visit the official website at https://www.foodpanda.ph. Also like and follow the official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok and Youtube.

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