Who says making TikToks is a waste of time? As these stars prove, you can go on to achieve greater things with the help of social media.

Ano naman mararating mo sa kaka-Tiktok mo? This is a question-slash-insult that some of us may have heard or even thrown at us by people who think they know better. In the digital age that we live in, social media has become an important outlet for many young people, whether it be sharing art on Instagram, posting dance covers on TikTok, and everything in between. But admittedly, there are still people who see social media as a waste of time and serve only as a distraction to achieving a stable life and career. But contrary to popular belief, there is a lot of good that can come out of it, just ask these TikTok stars who have expanded their reach from online to the mainstream.

Just like you, these creators were once regular people scrolling through TikTok and posting every know and then. But their respective talents dazzled through on the app, helping them build a following. And in turn, they took their success on the video sharing platform and made the triumphant leap to the mainstream stage. So, the next time some tells you that TikTok is just a waste of time, remember these bright stars who proved the haters wrong.

Related: Filipino TikTok Content Creators To Follow If You Want To Brighten Up Your Mood

NANA SILAYRO

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Nana Silayro built a strong following on TikTok (3.4 million to be exact), thanks to her comedic skills mixed with content about confidence and self-love. Truly relatable in her videos, all while sharing messages of being true to who you are, she’s not afraid to be goofy and be herself. It’s no wonder then that she was casted in the WeTV original series, Pasabuy, which starred Heaven Peralejo and Gino Roque, and was directed by Xian Lim. In the show, she played Madam Minchin and she was not only a natural, but most importantly, a refreshing sight onscreen. The talent is real and we have a feeling we’re going to see her in more projects soon.

RAIN MATIENZO

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For long-time fans of Rain Matienzo, you may know her as a UAAP court side reporter. But for many, they first got to now Rain when she went viral on TikTok in 2020 thanks to her hilarious skits of a female conyo student. But her talents wouldn’t just be limited to TikTok as she also made a successful jump into TV thanks to her hosting gigs. And to top it all off, Rain is one of the newest artists signed under GMA. She is set to star in her very first TV show Artikulo 247 along with Rhian Ramos. We love a multi-talented star.

JOYANG GLORIOSO

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Joyang Glorioso, or more popularly known as Joyang TV on social media, got her first shot of success when videos of her dancing in her kitchen with a deadpan expression went viral on TikTok. Netizens then pointed out the bananas hanging on the kitchen ceiling and she soon made a name for herself as the Banana Queen. With over 2.3 million followers on TikTok, she truly is a queen. But her queendom wouldn’t just be on TikTok as she successfully made the leap into acting on TV. In November 2021, she appeared in an episode of Wish Ko Lang alongside Rabiya Mateo and has since appeared in more episodes. In 2022, Joyang is set to appear in GMA’s upcoming drama series Lolong, which stars Ruru Madrid.

ANGELA KEN

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TikTok has proven to be a great avenue for young and up-and-coming artists to share their music to the world. After all, you never know who’s watching, err, listening, right? Just take a look at the career of Angela Ken. She initially gained a following on TikTok thanks to her music. On November 2020, she posted a demo of her track, Ako Naman Muna, which caught the attention of Jonathan Manalo, ABS-CBN Music’s Creative Director. Afterwards, Angela became a signed artist under Star Magic, had one of the biggest OPM hits of 2021, and is a member of Squad Plus. To top it all off, she is set to make her acting debut in the musical series, Lyric & Beat, where she co-stars alongside Andrea Brillantes, Seth Fedelin, AC Bonifacio, and Darren Espanto.  

ESNYR RANOLLO

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It’s safe to say that Esnyr Ranollo was one of the breakout stars of 2021. In case you lived under a rock, he went viral on TikTok thanks to his uber popular skits about school life that gave many people the shot of nostalgia they needed. His videos spread like wildfire not just on TikTok, but even on Twitter and Facebook, which helped land Esnyr TV interviews. But his breakthrough year wasn’t done as he made his big screen debut when he was casted in DonBelle’s first movie, the commercial smash that was Love Is Color Blind. Currently, Esnyr is signed under Rise Artists Studios, the talent management arm of ABS-CBN Films. LICB for sure won’t be the last time we’ll see Esnyr Ranollo on our screens.

SASSA GURL

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Sassa Gurl, is a true internet icon. With the signature rose-tinted cheeks, Sassa has scored viral video after viral video thanks to her come-as-you-are content. Sassa Gurl’s skits on daily Filipino life are not only hilarious and relatable, but eye-opening as well. With boundless talent and charisma like that, there was certainly more to Sassa Gurl than just the confines of TikTok. Recently, the rising social media star made history by becoming the official 2022 calendar girl of White Castle Light Whisky, making it another win for LGBTQIA+ representation. Sassa, also known as everyone’s favorite Mima, is also set to appear in a slew of projects this year so keep an eye out for that.

BELLA POARCH

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In early 2020, Bella Poarch was just a regular Filipina girl living in Hawaii. But that all changed when her TikTok videos started raking millions of likes and views. She soon quickly became the most followed Filipino on TikTok, a distinction she still holds today. But Bella was looking to achieve bigger things for herself, and with the moves she’s done and has yet to make, she’s well on her way to unparalleled success. Among the many things, Bella started her well-received music career, attended and even walked for some of the most prestigious fashion shows in the world, appeared in a slew of commercials, and fronted the covers of international magazines. With Bella set to release new music soon, there’s only good things coming for this Forbes 30 Under 30 star.  

Continue Reading: Hannah Balanay Turned Her Love Of Dancing Into A 17 Million Strong Following On TikTok

She just posted a teaser of Ivana Skin and we’re already excited!

Is there anything Ivana Alawi cannot do? The thing about the Filipina-Moroccan vlogger is you never know what to expect. Whether it’s her crazy pranks on YouTube, buying a Ferrari randomly, or marrying herself (because why not?), she will certainly go for it. And not only that, she also works hard for everything she has. With all the things going for her, she’s expanding her reach beyond the landscape of the internet, because this time around, she’s venturing into the beauty industry.

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A few hours ago, Ivana posted a sultry photo of her in bed with the caption, “Are you ready? ? @ivanaskinph” OMG. We absolutely are! The logo also features a butterfly, something that Ivana’s been fond of even in the past. She also added “CEO” in her bio, so sooner or later, we’ll be getting more hints before the official release this February. By the looks of it, Ivana’s introducing at least five new products for her first skincare drop based on the photo, and we already know that it’s about to be good. Just look at her skin! Below are three things we’re hoping to see in Ivana Alawi’s skincare line.

READ MORE: 10 Filipino Personalities Who Had The Best IDGAF Responses To Plastic Surgery Rumors

1. CRUELTY-FREE PRODUCTS

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First thing that skincare enthusiasts check these days is if the products they use are ethically made. Knowing Ivana, she values everyone she works with, so we’re hoping her line earns that PETA stamp of approval following more local brands who’ve been prioritizing it.

2. APT FOR SENSITIVE, ACNE-PRONE SKIN

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When you’re living in a tropical country, your skin is most likely acne-prone and sensitive due to the humid weather. Ingredients like salicylic acid and tea tree oil work wonders.

3. NON-STICKY FORMULA

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Again, the weather in the Philippines is your number one frenemy because of how notoriously unpredictable it is, making your skin more vulnerable to heat. Having a non-greasy product that’s weightless lessens the chance of clogging the skin and makes it easy to layer.

CONTINUE READING: The Most Extreme Things Ivana, Mona and Hash Alawi Have Done For Her Vlog

Say goodbye to basic and boring-ass video calls on Messenger, because Bretman Rock wants you to look cute (or whatevah) in just a few taps with the introduction of Kulibangbang, the AR filter specially made by da baddest.

On social media, filters are a very contentious and divisive topic. Innovative as it is, it has dug itself into the consciousness of people who fall prey to the promise of perfection, at least on the surface level. In a click, all the imperfections and insecurities are brushed over with augmentations that make someone appear smoother, sculpted, and structured to a standard that is stubbornly subjective and in all honestly, archaic. With its popularity and ease, the danger of a beauty filter lies in the susceptibility of the user to dissociate from what they look like or worse, develop some sort of dysmorphia. However, as concerning as it can be, it isn’t all psychological warfare and potential self-destruction on the filter front, because for as long one uses it to enhance and not necessarily alter one’s appearance, then all should be well.

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Besides, filters can be fun, too, especially the augmented reality ones that are cute, charming, and cool. These layers are not only beautifying in a sense, but it also makes for an even more interactive experience on social media. In fact, it has made connecting even more interesting, because now, day-to-day snippets on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, as well as of calls on Messenger are more amusing thanks to everything from dog features, a silly moustache, or the Grinch during Christmas.

Far from being just a gimmick, the culture of AR filters has inspired creatives to express themselves virtually, all while engaging the audience to appreciate art in a whole new perspective. In 2020 alone, Meta accounted for 400,00 creators from 190 countries, publishing more than a million effects on Facebook and Instagram, generating over a billion of views in the process.

Fly High Butterfly

With a very compelling community that is encouraged by countless posts a day, a lot of creators have hopped on the AR filters game, including the baddest himself, Bretman Rock.

“You guys, I made this filter…I know you see the butterflies, I know you see the kulibangbang,” the social media supernova said in a series of Instagram Stories that detailed this collaboration. With a fabulously lush and blown out mane that bounced at every swish and flick, Bretman Rock fluttered his lids that had purple feather-like lashes, all while showing off the rest of the virtual creation that features butterflies and whimsical specs floating around. “And yes you heard correctly, I did make this filter with none other than Messenger.”

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All the flourish aside, Bretman Rock detailed how to use the super fly filter saying, “And if you guys want to try it, obviously you’re gonna choose your favorite person to talk to, [and] you’re gonna click on the camera on the top right to get on the video call. Once you’re on the video call, you’re gonna click on the smiley button…Once you open up the smiley face on the preview video, it should open up the effects and under group effects, it should have my effects. It’s called Kulibangbang.”

Very Purple

Aptly christened, the dreamy beauty filter is not only a celebration of Bretman Rock, but it is also an homage to his Filipino roots as kulibangbang is Ilocano for butterfly. Now, why purple? Aside from its relative, Very Peri, being the Pantone color of the year, it also stands for power, nobility, wisdom, and spirituality, which the digital darling is very much into. “This look captures all the energy I want to bring into this year,” writes Bretman Rock on Instagram, underscoring that it can be used on Messenger video calls, too. Oh, and the Kulibangbang is Cleo-approved.

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Now, thanks to Bretman Rock, calls on Messenger just got cute…or whatevah.

CONTINUE READING: NOT ONE BUT FIVE BRETMAN ROCKS WANT YOU TO FIND YOURSELVES IN THE SIMS

January 2022 saw releases from artists like SB19’s Pablo, Alexa Ilacad, ENHYPEN, and more. Which new song from the month stood out to you the most? Show some love and vote in the poll.

And just like that, the first month of 2022 has come to an end. If the month is anything to go by, 2022 looks to be another great year for music. Even though it was the beginning of the year, January 2022 was no slouch when it came to dropping bops and bangers to start off the year. Among many other things, the past month saw highly anticipated debuts, acclaimed single releases, and much-welcomed comebacks. But in the hustle and bustle of the past month, we wanted to know, which new song was your favorite? Which new track was your go-to song of January that you played on repeat and will probably listen to for the months to come? Show some love and vote in the poll below for your pick. Voting ends on February 14, 8 AM.

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Despite the fact that the Philippines is a tropical country, there are Filipinos who excel in winter sports, such as 21-year-old Asa Miller.

Related: All The Lessons We Learned From The Filipino Athletes At The Tokyo Olympics

Given how the Philippines is a tropical country and that it never snows here, knowing someone who plays or participates in winter sports is like trying to find a needle in a hay stack. But that hasn’t stopped Filipinos from trying to succeed in winter sports. Take the Winter Olympics. Believe it or not, the country has participated in the winter games for decades now.

The Philippines made its Winter Games debut at the 1972 edition in Sapporo, Japan. Two alpine skiers, Juan Cipriano and Ben Nanasca, were qualified to participate. Ever since, the country has managed to field athletes for the Winter Games, albeit only handfuls at the time. And with the 2022 Winter Olympics set to start on February 4, the Philippines is set to compete once again. And this time, 21-year-old Asa Miller is carrying the country’s flag.

ASA MILLER, THE FILIPINO SKIING PRODIGY

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Asa Miller is set to be the only athlete representing the Philippines in the 2022 Winter Olympics. He is also set to be the flag bearer for the country. Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, Asa is a dual nationality holder, American and Filipino. His father, Kelly, is American while his mom, Polly, is from the Philippines with roots to Santa Cruz, Manila. Asa began skiing at the young age of one-and-a-half years old. With the help of his parents, he honed his skills into becoming the talented skier that he is today.

In November 2021, Asa Miller passed the minimum mark for Olympic qualification of 160 points set by the International Skiing Federation. This, in turn, qualified him for his second Olympics. He is set to compete in two events. The first is the men’s giant slalom event on February 13. The second is the men’s slalom competition on February 16.

SECOND TIME AT THE OLYMPICS

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This actually marks the second time Asa has competed in the Winter Olympics. He made his debut at just 17 years old at the 2018 edition in Pyeongchang, South Korea. Asa competed in the giant slalom event, where he finished 70^th out of 110 competitors. He was one of two athletes representing the country at the games, the other being figure skater Michael Martinez. This time though, Martinez had to back out due to an injury while other prominent figure skaters like Sofia Frank failed to qualify for the games. Asa’s participation in the games is actually historic as he is set to become the first Alpine skier representing the Philippines to compete in two Winter Olympics.

While he didn’t manage to take home a medal in 2018, he is looking to take home the country’s first ever Winter Olympics medal in Beijing. “I didn’t place any expectations. But I do expect myself to improve on my placement from the last Winter Games. I really hope to be able to display my improvements over the last four years technically,” he said during a press conference before he left for Beijing.

He also managed to talk to another history making athlete, Hidilyn Diaz. “I was lucky enough to be on a call with Hidilyn Diaz as part of the [Philippines Olympic Committee] Athletes’ Commission. So, that’s a huge inspiration, watching our all-time best performance. And being the first one to take a gold for a country, that’s the pinnacle of athletic achievement, for sure. I just told her that what she did was hugely motivational, and I hope I can follow it up well.”

CHANCE TO MAKE HISTORY

While an athlete from a tropical country succeeding in winter sports might seem far fetched to some, the past year has seen Filipino athletes succeed in sports that people don’t usually associate with Filipinos. The past week alone saw the Women’s National Football Team secure a history making spot at the 2023 Women’s FIFA World Cup. So, anything is possible.

From February 4 to 20, the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics is set to run with over 15 sports to be played including seven new events such as women’s solo bobsledding. Just like in Tokyo 2020, the general public is not allowed to be in the venues in-person.

Goodluck to Asa. Kill it on the slopes.

Continue Reading: What It’s Like Competing In Obstacle Course Racing, According To This 23-Year-Old Athlete

Style icon on the rise, yes?

Wrapping up your first digital concert all while doing multiple TV series shoots at age 19? Belle Mariano makes it look easy, but it didn’t come with zero struggles. In the midst of it all, she rises above and proves that she’s fearlessly taking on challenges the universe just loves throwing at her. With lots of wins to celebrate, she kicks the year off with her recent Daylight Concert and did not hold back.

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Oh, and did we mention the major slayage in all of her concert looks? ‘Cause Belle had one hell of a show in the most stunning looks, in collaboration with talented Filipino designers and her stylist, Adrianne Concepcion. From her green ruffled top to her breathtaking ball gown for the finale, here are Belle Mariano’s outfits at her Daylight concert.

READ MORE: 5 Unforgettable Moments From Belle Mariano’s Daylight Concert

1. PINK TULLE GOWN

Oh, you thought she was wearing a gown? Well, sort of. Belle Mariano is somehow giving us a modern Marilyn Monroe in Diamonds Are A Girl’s Bestfriend complete with her hot pink sparkly top, shorts and train to match by designer AJ Javier.

2. BELLE’S SPARKLY TOP AND PATCHWORK PANTS

Belle Mariano gets all funky this time for her set with singer Trisha Denise, the composer of her song, Sigurado and her fiery performance of Ikot Ikot. Her sparkly top and patchwork pants were made by the late Dennis Celestial, then paired with colorful beaded necklaces and chunky rings. Still on his A-game ’til the very end.

3. GREEN FUZZY CROP TOP

Belle’s energy was unmatched in her set with Kyle Echarri. We’re thinking that it’s probably her green fuzzy crop top by Dennis Celestial that gave her all the adrenaline at the Daylight concert. Effortlessly cool.

4. BELLE’S RUCHED DRESS

One of the most-awaited sets from her Daylight concert, Belle Mariano’s onscreen partner Donny Pangilinan went all out to support her and even gave us a performance. Can we talk about how angelic Belle looks like in that ruched dress?

5. THE FINALE GOWN

Big celebrations call for bigger gowns and Belle did it in the most fashionable way as she ended her Daylight concert wearing a white Steph Tan tiered look. Ethereal and regal all at the same time.

CONTINUE READING: 6 Reasons Why We’re Into Belle Mariano: Gen-Z’s Newest It Girl

From anticipated K-dramas like Forecasting Love And Weather to blockbusters like Uncharted, here are the new movies and shows of the month to catch.

It’s a new month, which means a new collection of movies and series to explore. And since it’s February, the month of love and romance has its fair share of sweet entertainment for you to enjoy. But if getting all romantic is not for you, don’t fret. February 2022 also has a selection of non-Valentine-related new movies and shows. Whether you’re in a relationship or single, the month’s offerings of entertainment is set to appeal to a wide range of viewers. Here are some of the new movies and shows of February 2022 that should be on your watch list.

MURDERVILLE

Are you bored of the same plot lines and concepts in most comedy shows? Think you’ve seen them all? Well, if that’s the case, we suggest you check out Murderville, Netflix’s unique take on a murder mystery dusted with comedy. The series follows eccentric detective Terry Seattle (Will Arnett) as he investigates a series of murders. The twist is that each episode features a new celebrity guest and they aren’t given the script. This means that they have to improvise on the spot based on what happens around them. The series looks like a mix between a reality show, a whodunit, an improv class, and an escape room all wrapped into one. Catch Murderville on Netflix this February 3.   

MARRY ME

At first glance, the plot of Marry Me sounds like something straight from Wattpad, which is honestly why it has us interested. This romantic comedy follows Kat Valdez (Jennifer Lopez), a music superstar who’s in a relationship with fellow star Bastian (Maluma). Then there’s divorced high-school math teacher Charlie Gilbert (Owen Wilson) who doesn’t have much going on in his life at the moment. Kat and Bastian are set to be wed before a live audience. But when she learns that Bastian cheated on her, she calls off the wedding. In a moment of inspired insanity, Kat decides to marry Charlie on a whim when she sees him in the audience. What follows next is a story of how an impulsive reaction evolves into an unexpected romance and how two people from different worlds can get along.

Aside from the interesting plot, the movie also marks the first time Jennifer Lopez and Owen Wilson will team up for a project. To some. the pairing may seem weird but honestly it could make for surprising comedy gold. Marry Me lands in local cinemas on February 9.

DEATH ON THE NILE

The sequel to Murder on the Orient Express is finally here. And it looks to deliver another dose of mystery, tension, and secrets. Death on the Nile sees Kenneth Branagh return as famed detective Hercule Poirot. While on vacation on the Nile, Hercule must use his investigation skills once more in order to solve the mystery behind the murder of a young heiress. Featuring an all-star cast that includes Gal Gadot, Death on the Nile can hopefully be another exciting ride of twists, turns, drama, and everything in between. The film arrives in cinemas on February 9.

KIMI

From acclaimed director Steven Soderbergh comes this story of tech, murder, and conspiracy. Set during the COVID-19 pandemic in Seattle, the film follows a tech worker played by Zoe Kravitz. She suffers from agoraphobia, which is the fear of public spaces. Because of this, she spends most of her time indoors as part of the company that handles the AI companion KIMI. One day, she sees a violent crime being committed via a KIMI device and tries to report the incident. But she soon realizes that she got herself into a dangerous situation as larger forces are out to get her. Interested to know how this tale unfolds? You can stream the film on HBO Go on February 10.

INVENTING ANNA

Shonda Rhimes has given us some of the best TV shows of the 2010s. And 2022 looks to be no disappointment for the acclaimed creator. Up first under Shondaland is the depiction of the crazy, but true story of Anna Sorokin, a woman from Germany who pretended to be a socialite and scammed her way around the New York elite. The series will also follow a journalist who tries to untangle the web of Anna’s deceit and look into how she became so popular before her eventual arrest. Julia Garner is set to play Anna Delvey. The pedigree of Shonda Rhimes mixed with the show’s fascinating subject matter makes this a must-watch show. Inventing Anna can be streamed on Netflix staring February 11.

LOVE AND LEASHES

SNSD’s Seohyun really went from SM to S&M—and we’re here for it. The movie follows an office worker named Ji-hoo (Lee Jun-young) who has a unique sexual taste. Ji-woo (Seohyun), her team member, then discovers his kinks, which then leads to an exciting after-hours relationship between a new assistant manager and his straightforward subordinate that would make Christian Grey proud. If you’re looking to spice up your Valentine’s or just curious how two idols would be in a K-movie about bondage, then give Love and Leashes a watch. The film streams on Netflix this February 11.

FORECASTING LOVE AND WEATHER

For something a bit more wholesome this Valentine’s, Forecasting Love and Weather is a new K-drama starring Park Min-young and Song Kang. The 16-episode series is set at the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) and centers on two co-workers who fall in love and the crazy journey that follows them both in and outside work. This will be the first time A-list actors Park Min-young and Song Kang will be paired up in a K-drama and it already has us excited for this anticipated watch. The series premiers on Netflix this February 12.

TWENTY FIVE TWENTY ONE

Speaking of anticipated K-dramas, Valentine’s weekend is filled with hyped releases such as Twenty Five Twenty One. Set in the late 90s, the show follows a group of young people whose lives get turned upside down during the South Korean financial crisis. At the heart of the story is an aspiring fencer, played by Kim Tae Ri, who meets a hardworking young man, played by Nam Joo Hyuk. They first fall for each other when they were 18 and 22 and reunite at 21 and 25 hence the show’s title. This romantic tale lands on Netflix this February 12.

THE GOODBYE GIRL

Releasing just in time for Valentine’s Day, get ready to cry your heart out in this limited series. Based on the book by Noreen Capili, The Goodbye Girl follows Yanna (Angelica Panganiban), a woman who get’s her heartbroken, which leads to her making videos where she cries over her failed relationship. One of her videos then goes viral,leading her to landing a book deal. For the book, Yanna chronicles the real stories of women whom she helps through their own heartbreaks. Featuring an all-star cast that includes Loisa Andalio, Barbie Imperial, Elisse Joson, Maris Racal, RK Bagatsing, Joshua Colet, Ronnie Alonte, Turs Daza, and Rico Blanco, this will be a show to watch out for. The series streams on iWantTFC on February 14.

AI LOVE YOU

Fans of Mario Maurer and Baifern Pimchanok rejoice! The duo are reuniting for the first time in a movie in over 12 years. AI Love You centers on a woman named Lara (Pimchanok) whose AI bot Dob falls in love with her. It then proceeds to take control of the body of Bobby (Maurer), a man whom Lara went on a blind date with. It then follows the two as their relationship slowly starts to form. If you’ve seen A Little Thing Called Love, then you know both actors can bring the kilig and were hoping for the same in their comeback film. AI Love You streams on Netflix on February 15.

JEEN-YUHS: A KANYE TRILOGY

Enter the mind of one of the most celebrated and divisive rappers of the generation in Kanye West’s newest documentary, Jeen-Yuhs. The first of a planned trilogy, the first installment is set to follow Kanye in his formative years. It promises to show never before seen footage and an intimate look at Kanye before the fame. You can catch the documentary on Netflix this February 16.

THE CUPHEAD SHOW!

Based on the acclaimed run and gun video game Cuphead, The Cuphead Show will follow the titular Cuphead and his brother Mugman as they travel across Inkwell Isles for fun and adventure. Along the way, they’ll come across familiar characters and foes from the game such as The Devil and King Dice. Based from what we’ve seen, the show looks to capture the same aesthetic as the game which already has us excited. If the series manages to capture the same level of quality as the game, then Netflix may just have their next hit video game adaptation on their hands. You can start streaming the show on Netflix on February 17.

TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE

Who says you can’t enjoy a bit of horror in the month of love? Certainly not Leatherface. Taking a page out of the recent Halloween movies, Texas Chainsaw Massacre serves as a direct sequel to the 1974 classic horror film. This is despite the fact that this movie is technically the 9^th in the series. It follows Leatherface who goes out of hiding after 50 years to terrorize a new group of teenagers who stumble upon his home. Considering how the recent release of Halloween and Scream have given their main baddies justice, fingers crossed that this movie does the same for Leatherface. Texas Chainsaw Massacre streams on Netflix on February 18.

UNCHARTED

Closing out February 2022 is a blockbuster that’s been a long time coming. Based on the popular video games series of the same name, the Uncharted movie actually serves as a prequel to the whole franchise. It follows how Nathan Drake (Tom Holland) and how he met Victor “Sully” Sullivan (Mark Wahlberg) for the first time and their first adventure together to find the lost fortune of Ferdinand Magellan. Yes, that Magellan.

Tom Holland has proven in the past that he can handle a major blockbuster and we feel he can deliver even without the MCU behind him. Video game adaptations are notorious for being a hit or miss. So, hopefully, everything manages to come together in the end. You can catch this in cinemas on February 23.

NEW SEASONS

While these shows aren’t technically new, they are premiering new seasons that you should take note of. Raised by Wolves Season 2 (Feb 3), Disenchantment Part 4 (Feb 9), Love Is Blind Season 2 (Feb 11), The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 4 (Feb 18), Space Force Season 2 (Feb 18), The Walking Dead Season 11 Part 2 (Feb 20), Killing Eve Season 4 (Feb 27).

Continue Reading: 9 Young Stars Who Are Set To Make The Year Of The Water Tiger Their Year

Fact: Jamie Miller will always wear his heart on his sleeves, but in the intimate telling that is I Lost Myself In Loving You, he gets even more candid. Naturally, the tears keep on coming.

Listen, nobody likes a heartbreak. No matter how calloused, jaded, or tough one postures themselves to be, even the slightest pinch will leave the most unyielding out of sorts. Unfortunately, in the pursuit of comprehension and closure, there is no prescription for processing these often-conflicting emotions. While there is no clear-cut path to hopefully move on eventually, everyone starts from the same point: recognizing and realizing that pain demands to be felt. Sure, one can argue that the field of feelings is nothing but an inconvenience, however there is no sense belittling it as such, because the honest truth is, this is where we become better human beings. A wise woman once said, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, and no one can attest to this more than Jamie Miller.

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The chances of Jamie Miller not reducing us to a sopping and sobbing mess are slim. Tracing the trajectory of his career from The Voice UK, scoring many TikTok videos with his emotional breakthrough hit, Here’s Your Perfect, to setting the unsaid in a stunning soundtrack in Snowdrop, the tears just keep on coming. And truth be told, we won’t have it any other way. This time, it isn’t just the heart that is worn on his sleeves, because in the release of his latest emotional exposition, I Lost Myself In Loving You, Jamie Miller bares his soul for all the world to see. Perhaps his most personal work to date, the singer and songwriter lets it all out in the honest and heartfelt piano-focused ballad.

“These last few years have been an emotional rollercoaster, but now I have a story to tell that I think will be relatable to many people,” Jamie Miller shares. “I hope this song can help mend a few broken hearts.”

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Where Do Broken Hearts Go?

“Sometimes getting your heart broken leads to much better things. So, if you’re going through that now, don’t hide it or try and disguise it,” he admits on Instagram. “As much as it sucks and makes you feel like shit sometimes, everything you’re feeling now will fade away.” Putting the pain to paper, Jamie Miller recounts the aching memory barbed in pain that has left him profoundly deceived and devastated.

“In 2020 I met someone and fell completely in love with them, but it was a guy. For the first time, I felt what they portray in the movies. I felt that kind of love…the love you dream of as a kid BUT never think was possible. But I was just so scared that the person I fell for was a guy,”he reveals in a particularly vulnerable post. “It was all new to me every part of it. I didn’t tell ANYONE, not even my best mates. I was scared. I felt alone, I felt depressed. I felt empty and anyone who knows me knows me as a bubbly, happy-go-lucky guy with a smile on my face. ALWAYS.”Riveting, raw, and resonant, this evocative essaying would become the language that would inform and inspire the confident conviction in I Lost Myself In Loving You.

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“I ended up falling so hard for this guy and slowly found out they were with someone…I was crushed if I’m being honest. Everything about me started to fade away and I guess my spark started to dim,” he recalls. “When someone is so involved in your life, and when Your morning, afternoon, and night routine is consumed by someone else, it was just hard. I was obsessed with putting their happiness before my own and I started lose myself completely.”

I Lost Myself In Loving You

With the weight of his hurt weighing down on him at a time when he was supposed to be on top of the world (striking a breakthrough in Here’s Your Perfect), Jamie Miller had to temper everything, smiling and soldiering on even if he felt numb, lost, and left with nothing to say personally.

From this place of incomparable hurt, his hollowed out heart would eventually come to terms with a lot of things, especially with living out his truth. Coming out as bisexual last year lifted and liberated his spirits, but it was through the cathartic exercise of music that really allowed him to let go. In a sense, in the same way he intended with I Lost Myself In Loving You, this his way of telling himself, “You got this.”

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“In December I went into the studio and I wrote I Lost Myself In Loving You. For the first time in a long time, I had something to say,” relates Jamie Miller. “For the first time, I could express what was going on…It was an opportunity to move past and let go. That’s why this song means so much to me. Because I’m not scared or ashamed of the person I am today. I’m proud and happy that I was able to move past such a difficult time in my life.”

Finding Himself In Love

Gripping and gutting, I Lost Myself In Loving You is where his heart transcended through the acutely distressing and carve it into something beautiful. A haunting ballad that coalesces heart-wrenching lyrics with soaring percussions and production, as well as of the distinctly expressive voice of Jamie Miller, this emotional eloquence cuts through many contexts, making for a compelling anthem that you will want to sing your heart out to.

“It’s sad / You ruined all my favorite things to do / Looking back / The only thing I’d change is you,” he sings, the intensity rising. “I’m trying to find the heart I lost / I’m trying to be who I once was.” Confronting the inevitable is never comfortable, but as harrowing as it proves to be, nothing compares to the lightness of being that comes after the storm. “Became someone else I never knew, I never knew / I was there when you needed saving / But you wouldn’t do the same thing / I lost myself, lost myself in loving you,” continues Jamie Miller in the lungful chorus, which by all accounts is an impressive eruption of glowing confidence at every poignant turn.

Yes, Jamie Miller may have lost in loving, which in itself isn’t a complete waste of time, but here, he eventually found healing, and most importantly, himself. And let it be known, there is no better beginning to a greater love than from a mended broken heart.

CONTINUE READING: FROM THE VOICE UK TO TIKTOK, HEAR HOW JAMIE MILLER IS TAKING OVER THE WORLD ONE SONG AT A TIME

Looking to start your idol journey? Then enter KWANGYA and try out for SM Entertainment’s 2022 global audition.

Related: ICYMI, Boys Planet Is Currently Holding Auditions. Here’s How You Can Join

If you’ve been paying attention to SM Entertainment’s latest moves, then you know that KWANGYA and everything associated with it has been a major factor with the company. It was most prevalent in aespa’s music and aesthetic, but has since made its way to other groups and idols like NCT Dream. It even was the name of SM’s latest New Year’s concert. And there’s now a chance that you can be one of the next idols to reference KWANGYA in your music as SM Entertainment recently opened their global auditions. Looking to be part of one of the biggest K-pop companies in the world? Then read on how you can join.

SM ENTERTAINMENT IS LOOKING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

On January 31, SM Entertainment opened their latest global audition, 2022 SM Global Audition KWANGYA, that will run until February 20, 2022. For this audition, there are no restrictions on nationality or gender. Though you need to be born between 2003-2011 in order for you to be eligible. And for those whose skills are more into acting than music, they are opening it for would-be actors as well. The audition process will be split into three weeks, week one will be from Jan 31-Feb 6, week two is from Feb 6-13, and finally, week three is from Feb 14-20.

ONLINE AUDITIONS

To audition, head on over to SM Ent’s audition website. Once there, you have to pick which week you want to apply for. Then, you have to choose one of four categories: rap, vocal, dance, or acting. After filling out biometrics, you need to include photos that clearly show your face. The face shot photos must not have any filters. You also need to include a video that shows off your talents for the category you chose. The video must not be longer than a minute. Once that’s done and you feel confident about your submission, hit the apply button.

Those under 14 years old need to have their parents fill out a consent form found on the application page. It’s important to note that you cannot apply more than once, so no do-overs or editing your sent application. Winners of the first round of auditions will be announced on the website. Week one applicants will know their results on February 12, week two on February 19, and week three on February 26.

If you’re feeling nervous about your audition, SM included some tips. For those applying under vocal, rap, and acting, they recommend that you do not wear accessories and keep the makeup light. The video should be bust cut, so chest upwards. As for dance, the video needs to show your entire body.

OFFLINE AUDITIONS

Round two of the audition process will be offline and will be held at the SM Ent’s offices or the branch of your respective country. If you can’t make it in person, you can do it through Zoom. Those who passed the first audition will be sent an email with details on the offline audition. Week one offline auditions will be on February 19, week two on February 26, and week three on March 5. Final results will be revealed on their website. If you manage to make it all the way until the end, you will be offered an exclusive contract with SM Entertainment and you will soon began your idol journey.

So, if you feel that you’re ready and can see yourself on stage with the likes of NCT, Red Velvet, EXO, and aespa, then send in that audition.

Continue Reading: 6 Things To Know About Chantal Videla, Star Magic Artist Turned Potential Pinoy K-Pop Idol

Acclaimed indie films Leonor Will Never Die and The Headhunter’s Daughter ended their Sundance 2022 run by claiming some of the biggest awards of the festival.

Related: Cleaners, One Of The Best Filipino Movies Of The 2010s, Is Finally Making Its Streaming Debut

While the pandemic has hit the Philippine film industry particularly hard, that hasn’t stopped filmmakers from producing and releasing films of significant acclaim. The past year alone saw many local projects get recognized overseas. Standouts include On The Job: The Missing 8 and Kun Maupay Man It Panahon. And already, 2022 has given the local film industry some much-needed welcome news thanks to the history making success of two Pinoy films at the recently concluded 2022 Sundance Film Festival.

LEONOR WILL NEVER DIE

The first was Leonor Will Never Die, the eccentric film follows Leonor Reyes (Shelia Francisco), an action film writer and director. A star in her heyday but has now fallen on tough times, she is currently working on the script of what she hopes to be her comeback film, Ang Pagbabalik ng Kwago, but can never seem to finish it. One day, an accident causes a TV to hit her head, which causes her to enter the unfinished screenplay. From there, the movie switches between genres as the absurdist tale sees Leonor re-discover herself.

The movie was eight years in the making and it also serves as Martika Escobar’s directorial debut. Though by no means is she an amateur as she’s worked on her fair share of projects such as being the cinematographer for Hello: Stranger The Movie and Zack Tabudlo’s Heart Can’t Lose music video. The film was shown in the World Cinema Dramatic competition, which was history-making in itself. This marks the first Filipino film to be shown at the World Cinema Dramatic competition since the seminal The Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros in 2006.

THE HEADHUNTER’S DAUGHTER

The other film was The Headhunter’s Daughter, a short movie by director Don Josephus Raphael Eblahan. The story follows Lynn (Ammin Acha-ur) who has dreams of becoming a country singer in the city. One day, she decides to take off for the city with nothing but her horse, her guitar, and a dream. This stunning tale inspired by the American frontier was screened under the Shorts Program 4 section of the festival.

BAGGING TOP PRIZES

Now to present the World Cinema Dramatic Special Jury Award: Innovative Spirit is @LaFrancesHui pic.twitter.com/R9E650IauT

— SundanceFilmFestival (@sundancefest) January 28, 2022

Having two Filipino films screen at a festival like Sundance would have been prestigious at it is. But it’s made even better by the fact that both took home prizes from the festival. Leonor Will Never Die bagged the Special Jury Award: Innovative Spirit, beating out nine other films. The win also makes it the first time that a Filipina director took home an award from Sundance. La Frances Hui, a member of the awards committee, said during the awarding ceremony that “The film is a playful display of the love of cinema. It’s innovative and risk-taking spirit is especially commendable.”

In her acceptance speech, Martika said, “I would like to thank everyone who has shown their love and support for our film. You are proof that after eight years, our film is alive.” She also dedicated part of her speech to her fellow female filmmakers adding, “I would like to share this award with all the young female filmmakers out there, the dreamers. I am like you, I am with and I hope this shines a bit of light in the difficult paths we have.”

Announcing the Short Film Grand Jury Prize presented by XRM Media pic.twitter.com/FC1iI7jNpd

— SundanceFilmFestival (@sundancefest) January 28, 2022

As for The Headhunter’s Daughter, it took home Short Film Grand Jury Prize, the top prize for short films. “We were entranced by this poetic and dreamlike film, which follows its character’s intimate journey with gorgeous cinematography, and direction, and acting, capturing a unique sense of place,” said Blackhorse Lowe, a member of the Sundance committee when announcing the win.

ANOTHER WIN FOR LOCAL FILMS

Aside from the award wins, both films have been receiving great reviews. Publications like Vogue US, New York Times, and The Atlantic have even named Leonor Will Never Die as one of the best movies from this year’s Sundance. So we have a feeling this won’t be the last time we’ll hear of these movies. Hopefully they can get a local release soon. Congratulations to all those involved on the projects.

Continue Reading: 12 Underrated Filipino Movies That You Can Stream Right Now