From a new Madonna film to Viola Davis as a warrior-leader, here are the recent and future biopics that you should not miss. 

Related: The New Movies And Shows To Add To Your Watchlist This September 2022

Biopics have long been a staple of world cinema. A contraction of “biography” and “picture,” biopics dramatize the lives of famous historical figures in the hopes of satiating the curious minds of audiences and the big pockets of moviemakers. Over the years, biopics have evolved and become more creative, even experimental, in its exploration of different subjects. Pablo Larrain’s Spencer is a case in point. The psychological drama gives a new, poetic look into the sensationalized life of the late Princess Diana, infusing the story with surreal and idiosyncratic tones. 

Sometimes, biopics turn out to be box office successes and hit makers like Bohemian Rhapsody and The Greatest Showman. Oftentimes, they become a way for Hollywood actors to elevate their careers in the industry. To illustrate it, six of the ten Academy Award winners for Best Actor in recent years are from biopics, the recent one being Will Smith in King Richard. Meanwhile, Jessica Chastain won the Best Actress trophy in the same year for her performance in The Eyes of Tammy Faye as the infamous televangelist Tammy Faye Bakker. But take this with a grain of salt as it can also be a hit and miss: like Lady Gaga’s performance as Patrizia Reggiani in House of Gucci.

In short, biopics have and will continue to dominate the big screens and stay relevant as it has done in the past. It continues to appeal to the masses and in turn be exploited by production houses. Anywho, here are some of the buzzy titles that you should get hyped up about, for better or for worse:

BLONDE

Probably this year’s most controversial film yet, Blonde is Andrew Dominik’s divisive reinterpretation of Marilyn Monroe’s life. It’s based on Joyce Carol Oates’s book of the same name which is a fictionalized account of Monroe’s tumultuous journey as a young Norma Jean Baker to being a Hollywood icon. The film premiered in the competition line-up of this year’s Venice Film Festival and received a staggering 14-minute standing ovation. However, the NC-17 rated movie proves to divide the critics: while some praise the film’s technically impeccable presentation, it also has been deemed as an exploitative and misguided portrayal of Monroe. Blonde is now available for streaming on Netflix. 

ELVIS

Directed by Baz Luhrmann, this glitzy Elvis Presley biopic has already proven itself to be a massive hit, earning almost $300 million dollars at the box office. The film features a star-making and soulful performance from Austin Butler, who evidently embodies the King of Rock and Roll with intense passion and rigor. It also stars Tom Hanks who plays the singer’s longtime manager. Elvis is now available to watch on-demand from home on HBO Max.

THE WOMAN KING

Set on the battlefields of nineteenth-century Africa, this epic saga follows the Agojie, an all-female warrior unit who defended the Kingdom of Dahomey against outside threat. The film stars the Oscar-winner Viola Davis, in her fiercest role yet, as General Nanisca, the valiant leader of the warriors. Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, The Woman King is sure to satisfy your cravings for action and history. The film will hit the theaters exclusively on September 16 and has yet to release any announcement about streaming.

BENEDICTION

Benediction follows the story of the English poet and soldier Siegfried Sassoon who was a decorated veteran of the Western Front. He was best known for his harrowing account of the First World War through his angry, compassionate, and beautiful poems. The film is fittingly directed by Terence Davies, who is considered as one of the great poets of British cinema. If you want to take it slowly and experience poetry, try immersing yourself in this lyrical and haunting offering. Benediction stars Jack Lowden and Jeremy Irvine. It is available for streaming on Netflix.

RESCUED BY RUBY

I know what you think. A biographical film with a dog? Does the dog die? Thankfully, no. But you’ll still cry for other reasons. Rescued by Ruby is based on the true story of the rescue dog Ruby and her handler Corporal Daniel O’Neal who are both underdogs in life. While O’Neil struggles to join the elite K-9 unit of the Rhode Island State Police, so does Ruby, a rambunctious shelter dog who is in and out of adoptive homes. What follows is their journey together, as O’Neil also enlists Ruby in the K-9 training program. The Flash Star Grant Gustin plays the lead while rescue dogs Bear and Shiloh play Ruby. You can stream the movie on Netflix. Prepare your tissues!

OPPENHEIMER

Nolan addicts, rejoice! A new Christopher Nolan film is in the works! After Tenet, Nolan is venturing into his first biopic film with Oppenheimer. Based on Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin’s book, American Prometheus, the film tells the true story of J. Robert Oppenheimer, also known as the “father” of the atomic bomb. Nolan’s next project boasts an explosive cast with Cillian Murphy playing the titular character. Joining him are Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr., and Florence Pugh. Oppenheimer is hitting the theaters on July 21, 2023.

SHE SAID

Starring two-time Academy Award nominee Carey Mulligan and Zoe Kazan, She Said chronicles the journey of the New York Times investigative journalists Megan Twohey (Mulligan) and Jodi Kantor (Kazan) in their unwavering pursuit of truth about the sexual assault of women in Hollywood by the media mogul Harvey Weinstein. The film captures the early critical moments of the #MeToo movement that has fueled the change of a system that has been enabling a serial predator. Executive produced by Brad Pitt, She Said is coming to the big screen on November 18.

I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY

You are going to want to dance and feel the heat with this upcoming feature about the incomparable icon, Whitney Houston. Described to be a “no-holds-barred portrait of the complex and multifaceted woman,” I Wanna Dance With Somebody is a musical biopic about the meteoric rise of Houston’s trailblazing life and career. It stars Naomi Ackie as the legendary singer together with Stanley Tucci, Ashton Sanders, Tamara Tunie, Nafessa Williams, and Clarke Peters. Don’t miss it and its epic soundtrack on December 21. 

AN UNTITLED MADONNA BIOPIC

Material girls, you ready? Universal Pictures has confirmed that they’re working on a biopic about the life of the pop superstar which is co-written and directed by Madonna herself. While most of the details are still under wraps, it’s confirmed that the Emmy winner and Inventing Anna star Julia Garner will play the pop icon. This is after aspiring actresses including Garner, Florence Pugh, Odessa Young, and Alexa Demie, reportedly undergone an intense bootcamp where they had 11-hour choreography and singing sessions with Madonna and her team. Asked about Madonna’s intention to make her own biopic, she said, “I’ve had an extraordinary life, I must make an extraordinary film.” Unfortunately, Madonna has yet to announce a release date for the film so you’ve got to be patient.

GOING ELECTRIC

Finally, we have a biopic about the American singer-songwriter icon Bob Dylan to be excited about. So far, what we already know is that Call Me By Your Name star Timothée Chalamet is going to play young Dylan and Logan director James Mangold is going to be at the helm. The film will be based on Elijah Wald’s 2015 book, Dylan Goes Electric, which highlights Dylan’s transition from folk to rock music. And since the production of the film has also been delayed due to the pandemic, as shared by the film’s director of photography Phedon Papamichael, it’s still unclear when’s the film going to be released.  In the meantime, you can try watching the 2007 film, I’m Not There, wherein several actors including Cate Blanchett and Heath Ledger portray the pop legend in different stages of his life. Sounds interesting enough? It’s available to watch on-demand on Amazon Prime Video. 

Continue Reading: Mga Kwentong Epik Is The Pinoy Komiks Tv Series You Should Be Adding To Your Watchlist

Take some time and immerse yourself with the diverse and colorful Filipino culture.

Related: Mga Kwentong Epik Is The Pinoy Komiks Tv Series You Should Be Adding To Your Watchlist

To celebrate the National Film Month and Philippine Creatives Industries Month, Tayo Change Youth Agency collaborated with Alabang Town Center (ATC) to hold a youth-curated Filipino art and film festival dubbed, Kamalayan: Pista ng Kapuluan, from September 25 to 30, 2022.

HIGHLIGHTING FILIPINO ROOTS

The festival seeks to “create a visual environment of exploration on Filipino Identity for young people and those young at heart, against the backdrop of globalization,” the organization’s media kit explained. It also aims to help raise funds for the Lake Sebu School of Living Traditions (SLT), a T’boli cultural center in Poblacion, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by KAMALAYAN (@kamalayanph)

This is in line with the Kapuluan ng Kabataan campaign of Kids for Kids, TAYO’s non-government organization (NGO) counterpart, which focuses on creating conducive spaces for children to learn creative skills and connect to their culture. 

Pista ng Kapuluan has exhibited and debuted regional films from all around the archipelago which foreground the Filipinos’ diverse and colorful cultural experiences. This is a part of their efforts to help young Filipinos gain a deep and purposeful appreciation of their nation’s artistry. 

The festival also coincides with the soft launch of Alabang Town Center’s Generation Townie campaign which aims to support the creative and nation-building projects of young Filipinos.

CELEBRATION OF FILIPINO CULTURE

The films are played and looped within a cube installation called Kaha ng Kapuluan, a box-style theater that is at once immersive and communal. There is also community wall where the visitors can write and share their own symbols and interpretation of culture. A booth with cultural products from the LST is also available at the event as a part of the fundraiser.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Alabang Town Center (@alabangtowncenter)

Some of the films that are part of their line-up include Shai Advincula’s Tembong, Mijan Jumalon’s Ola, Xeph Suarez’s Si Astri Maka Si Tambulah, Louise ISsabel Mendoza’s PULANGUI, Mary Ann Gabisan’s Habi, Jeffrie Po’s Consequences of a Man, and the award-winning film K’na The Dreamweaver by Ida Del Mundo among other titles. The films were curated by Tayo’s Cultural Director Bjork Calao, Tayo’s Director Luna Mendoza, and Jay Roses from the Pasalidahay Film Collective.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by KAMALAYAN (@kamalayanph)

You can visit the Filipino film festival at the ATC Activity Center until September 30. Admission is free. To know more about Pista ng Kapuluan, you can visit Kamalayan’s Facebook page.

Continue: Get Inspired: The Masungi Geopark Project Bags Un Award

For Filipino fans who’ve missed seeing SEVENTEEN live in Manila, know that your time is almost here.

Related: 7 Moments During SEVENTEEN’s HOT Era That We Won’t Be Forgetting Anytime Soon

SEVENTEEN is no stranger to holding concerts in the Philippines. Since 2016, the thirteen-member K-pop boy group has staged concerts in the country on four separate occasions. PH Carats definitely eat well knowing that whenever SEVENTEEN is set to embark on a new tour, a stop in Manila is always on the itinerary (as it should be). In fact, the group’s last overseas concert before COVID-19 struck was in Manila during their Ode to You tour in February 2020. Since then, it’s been two and a half years of Pinoy Carats watching their faves through the screen. But as they say, good things come to those who wait. And finally, SEVENTEEN is once again returning to Manila as part of their latest world tour.

BE THE SUN GOES TO MANILA

SEVENTEEN’s WORLD TOUR [BE THE SUN] kicked off with two explosive sold-out shows in Seoul that amassed 35,000 fans. Afterward, the group embarked on the US leg of the tour and performed in 12 cities: Seattle, Oakland, Los Angeles, Houston, Fort Worth, Chicago, Washington, DC, Atlanta, Belmont Park, Toronto, and Newark. This September-October sees the boys bring the often internet-breaking three-hour concert to Asia, and that includes two days in Manila on October 8 and 9 at MOA Arena.

Having the boys be back on our shores again, especially since it’s been two and a half years, is already a treat in itself. But it gets even more exciting when you think of what other adventures the guys will get into in Manila. In case you forgot, Joshua made a surprise trip with his mom to Manila a few weeks ago. Imagine going to a bar in Poblacion and seeing members like Minghao, DK, and Mingyu at a table. That would be a moment to remember.

Ever since the tour began, videos of the boys at the concert have been giving us major FOMO so knowing that it’s a two-day concert in Manila feels correct. For those who were able to secure tickets, congratulations, you have been blessed. For those who weren’t, may Hoshi’s horanghae powers help you ease the pain (or even bless you with a surprise).

As we count down the days until BE THE SUN in Manila, let’s take a look at some of the show’s highlights that undoubtedly will be ten times better watching live.

THE HOT OPENING NUMBER

MOONWALKER FEATURING JUN, DK, MINGHAO, AND HOSHI

THE FIRE GAM3 BOI STAGE WITH VERNON, MINGYU, S.COUPS, AND WONWOO

LEFT&RIGHT WITH ITS MEMORABLE SKIT INTRO AND VERNON’S SONG THAT CHANGES EACH CONCERT

THE NEVER-ENDING AJU NICE (PH CARATS, READY YOUR VOCAL CHORDS)

Continue Reading: And We’re Live: Concerts Coming To The Philippines This 2022 And Beyond (So Far)

In a time when it’s getting harder to stand up for the environment, the UN’s recognition of the Masungi Georeserve’s defenders serves as great encouragement. 

Related: This earth day, here are 7 ways you can help out the environment in your local community

On September 27, the Masungi Geopark Project won an award from the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SFG) Action Awards. The youth-led project, which aims to fight deforestation and climate change through geotourism, topped this year’s Inspire Category and bested over 3,000 other applications from 150 countries.

“I would like to dedicate this award, first and foremost, to our rangers and our team who are getting their hands and feet dirty to defend our remaining forests,” said Billie Dumaliang, co-founder and trustee of Masungi Reserve, as she accepted the award in Bonn, Germany. 

THE VICTORIOUS MOVEMENT

The UN SDG judges commended the movement “for being strong and bold enough to participate in national legislative inquiries and direct lobbying.” They also applauded the team “for going above and beyond through their engagement with the general public,” and emphasized their admiration for the “creativity of their successful storytelling” and for the courage of environmental activists, defenders, and forest rangers.

As part of the UN SDG Action Campaign, the Action Awards aim to “mobilize, inspire and connect people to drive action towards a more sustainable future on a healthy planet.” The campaign also encourages people to #FlipTheScript, which entails rethinking and recalibrating the way we live, and redefining what progress and development mean. 

“We flip the script by showing that a small group of young people, through their courage, creativity and energy, can form coalitions and bring about transformational change for the nation,” the youth defenders shared in Masungi Georeserve’s #FlipTheScript video. “Finally, we flip the script by showing that tourism does not have to impact our environment negatively. It can become a powerful force for good.”

POWERING THROUGH ADVERSITY

According to the report of Global Witness, the Philippines is one of the deadliest place for nature defenders. From 2016 to 2020, 166 land and environment defenders have been killed, making the country an utterly dangerous place to protect our environment. 

Just recently, 30 armed men, reportedly belonging to a private security company, encamped along the road near the Masungi’s conservation site and the Kaliwa Watershed protected area. For almost three weeks, the invaders have harassed, threatened, and intimidated defenders and illegally claimed ownership of the land. Although they have now left the area and their unlicensed firearms have been seized, no arrests have been made.

“Let us continue to urge the government to look into the possible anomalous and syndicated activities that made this invasion possible in the first place,” the statement posted on the Masungi Reserve website read. “Let us continue to push back and speak truth to power not only in Masungi but in other threatened sanctuaries in the Philippines.”

LAST LINE OF DEFENSE

The Masungi Geopark Project was born through a landmark agreement in 2017, thanks to fellow conservation advocate and then Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Gina Lopez. This initiative seeks to rehabilitate about 2,700 hectares of degraded forestland around the Masungi Georeserve.

“It’s one of the last green corridors that are providing a lot of essential services to millions of Filipino people in greater Metro Manila actually. If the government doesn’t have an enormous and ambitious protection plan that will be put into place, should Masungi Georeserve go away, then that spells disaster for millions of Filipino people,” shared Leon Dulce, former National Coordinator of the Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment, about the Masungi’s sheer importance.

For over two decades, the Masungi Georeserve Foundation have been tirelessly committed to caring for and protecting the environment. Mostly comprised of passionate young people, this community of conservationists aims to work towards the protection of the Masungi Georeserve’s limestone formation and biodiversity through conservation, education, and sustainable development.

“Finally, I’d like to dedicate this award to our opponents,” said Dumaliang during her acceptance speech. “To the quarrying companies and the land grabbers, their enablers in government, to the people who have said that we are dreaming too big, that this is the way things have always been, and that we’re pushing too far, this is for you. This is a reminder that we will not stop, that we will win in the end with our energy and creativity.”

May their win serve as an inspiration for young Filipinos to hold the line in protecting and standing for the Masungi Georeserve, the Kaliwa Watershed, and other vulnerable natural resources.

Continue Reading: From NDRRMC Alerts To Project Noah, These Useful Tools Can Help You Keep Safe During Typhoons

Combining accessibility and sustainability, students from UP Diliman turned local water plants into usable prosthetics for breast cancer survivors.

Related: A Filipino College Student Discovered Two New Species Of Beetles During The Pandemic

Never say never is a term that goes more than just a name of a song. It’s an inspiration for people to achieve things that some people may see as impossible. The last thing you want to do is stop young and intuitive minds from finding ways to help change the world for the better because they will do it. And that youthful ingenuity was on full display when two college students from UP Diliman turned water-based plants into the Brakong, a prosthetic for breast cancer survivors.

RECYCLABILITY MEETS SUSTAINABILITY

Breast cancer sucks, there’s no doubt about it. The Philippines has the highest incidence of breast cancer in all of Asia. Aside from having to deal with the struggle and pain of the cancer, some women also undergo a mastectomy to remove their tumor which causes the removal of breast tissue. Because of these, some women may feel an altered sense of self, as if they lost something important. It can make them look at their bodies differently. This can greatly affect self-confidence and make them feel insecure.

Brakong is here to help change that and give breast cancer survivors a new sense of self while doing so in an environmentally friendly way. Created by Emmanuel Pangilinan and Jason Pechardo, engineering students from UP Diliman, Brakong is a lightweight, customizable, and recyclable prosthetic meant for survivors who have undergone a mastectomy.

While there are prosthetics out there to use, these usually last only a few years and require changing, causing a sustainability problem. Brakong is hoping to change that. The prosthetic is made out of bakong, an aquatic plant native to the Philippines that’s usually found in lakes. Specifically, the breast uses a bio-based composite called PLAkong. The production process makes sure that it uses as minimal materials as possible. All raw materials, meanwhile, are not only abundant in the country, but they are also recyclable. The prosthetic breast can be repurposed after a few years to be used again.

A NEW ALTERNATIVE

The design of Brakong makes sure that the wearer is as comfortable as possible. Bakong has antimicrobial properties. This means that the prosthetic doesn’t get dirty or damp while in the chest area. The eye-catching nature design of the prosthetic goes just beyond the aesthetics. It’s meant to maximize airflow and won’t feel too heavy for the wearer. Because of the fact that Brakong is 3D printed, each plant-based prosthetic can be customized to fit the chest, curves, and features of the wearer for a snug fit.

Emmanuel and Jason have spent years working on this project. They even consulted with breast cancer survivors to make sure it fits their needs. The duo’s hard work has definitely paid off though. In 2021, Brakong won the Design Center of the Philippines’ Circular Design Challenge. And just this year, it was chosen as the national champion in the James Dyson Award, a global competition calling on engineers to think of solutions to help change the world. Because of their win, Brakong will represent the country during the international stage of the competition later in a year where a win could lead to it being widely available on the market. As for the time being though, the two students are currently at work tweaking the breast prosthetic, including partnering with ICanServe Foundation.

Continue Reading: Dissolvable Sunscreen Wet Wipes? That May Soon Be Real Thanks To Three Filipino College Students

Together with imma and the new vivo V25 Series, prepare to see a whole new side to the night as you live your best life.

When the day turns into night, it opens up a whole new opportunity to let out your inner you. No need to hide yourself when you can expresses yourself fully, especially for moment-making picture-perfect nights. But as much as we would want to immortalize those nights, we also have had those situations where smartphones aren’t just up to snuff. This is something that imma knows all too well.

As one of the top virtual humans in the game, imma knows a thing or two about delivering that A-tier content, especially when it comes to shining at night. Not only does she stay on top of her social media game, but she also wants others too to unlock their potential and own the night. This is why she, along with vivo, recently announced a new collaboration that is sure to lighten the night sky.

imma X VIVO

Just recently, vivo announced a partnership with imma to be the virtual ambassador of the new vivo V25 series. Under this new role, imma is set to explore and eternalize picture-perfect nights through the lens of vivo V25 series, a smartphone that enables users to shine through the night light. Given imma’s background, she feels more than suited to the task. Considered as Asia’s first ever virtual human, imma first made her debut in 2018, with the famous signature pink bob. Right from the jump, she amazed and caught the attention of audiences around the world with her uniquely virtual but super-realistic looks. In the years she has been active, Asia’s No.1 influential virtual human has worked with some of the top artists and brands of the world as she gives her hundreds of thousands of followers an authentic look into her virtual world.

“Well, my life is what inspired me,” said imma in an interview with NYLON Manila. “I got asked if I really exist or not a lot. But here I am, I do exist! I travel the world, meet friends, design my own fashion brands, and I’m excited about experiments I haven’t done yet. That’s why I want to share my life, my thoughts, to prove that I actually exist.” For the virtual star, working with vivo was a no brainer, especially since the brand is in-line with her ethos of the power of pictures.

“I believe taking photos is meant to capture the moment of your life,” she shares. “But I have seen a lot of beautiful night moments yet am a little disappointed because they are unable to save in the album as beautiful as my eyes saw. But with vivo V25 series, I am finally able to take photos at night as I want, and to be honest I start to expect to go out at night now!”

CAPTURING THE NIGHT ACROSS SOUTHEAST ASIA

Together with vivo, the multi-recognized model and influencer is set to embarks on an exciting quest across Southeast Asia to find the most magnificent moments. Her travels in particular will take her to six cities, each brimming with their own dynamic energy and culture that light up the night with their vibrant personality, creativity, and innovation. And thanks to the vivo V25 series new camera features, imma’s travels across Southeast Asia that much more fun and fulfilling, especially as she’s able to capture the night in all its unique beauty.

“I’m visiting many places and meeting new friends during this trip to Southeast Asia. With the night portrait feature, I am so happy that I can take great photos of them, and also, they can take photos of me while the background is pretty! Not only the night scenes but also the memories with friends can be captured beautifully, isn’t that great!” This bold energy imma brought to the table was one of the main reasons why vivo felt she was the perfect fit to lead this new partnership.

“We are excited to team up with imma for the launch of vivo V25 series. Her curiosity, vitality and young personality personify the latest addition in V series, which is built to amplify the fun in our everyday moments,” said vivo in a statement. “Through the lens of imma and vivo V25 series, which saw some major upgrades in its imaging capabilities, we hope users can appreciate and embrace the magical power of the night and immerse themselves in their picture-perfect nights.”

SHINE BRIGHT IN THE NIGHT

So, how then was imma’s travels across Southeast Asia? As she sees it, traveling to these cities was an unforgettable experience filled with new memories to cherish, and tricks to apply. “Each place I visited has its own colors at night, just like all the content creators I met. I had a fun time taking photos with them and doesn’t matter if it was outdoor on the street or inside in the club, I’m amazed that the people blend in the background perfectly but are still outstanding as the portrait. Isn’t that interesting! I still have not yet fully learned how to do that, but I will keep learning by using vivo V25 to take photos for my friends.”

Out of all the places she visited, she considers seeing Singapore’s iconic Merlion statue as a highlight. What amazed her though about the famous statue is how different it can look. “When I say Merlion, you all have the picture of what Merlion looks like right? Did you know when you take a photo of Merlion from behind, it looks nothing like what you imagine? I guess it is just more difficult to define a thing with one word than you think, even if it is a commonly known subject.”

BE UNIQUELY YOU

If reading about imma’s Southeast Asian adventures has already got you excited, wait till you see how it all came together. As part of this campaign, imma will star in her very own television commercial that will be released soon. In it, she will bring the audience on a journey to explore the vibrant streets and landmarks of countries and regions in Southeast Asia. Given how imma never disappoint with her content, you don’t want to miss this as her vision is brought to life. Who knows, it may even inspire you to travel with the vivo V25 series and take your own nightlife moments. The full video of her trip will be coming soon. But for now, here’s a little sneak peek on what you can expect.

At the end of the day, imma wants you to know that your content, vision, artistry, and imagination is uniquely you and that should be celebrated.

“Understand that you are the ONLY one who can never be replaced by anyone else! Social media expose tons of information every second and make us compare ourselves with others. As the result, we force ourselves to look even better than others, and sometimes it could lead to quite painful experiences. But don’t forget that somewhere in the world, there is always someone who loves you and thinks you are wonderful. Be yourself and enjoy who you are as you are.”

You can very much do all that and more with the vivo V25 series thanks to its premium specs and fashionable design. Its 64MP OIS Ultra-Sensing rear camera, the same camera imma used during her trips, enables users to snap stunning portraits no matter the time of day. A long-lasting battery and the use of the flagship processors round out this beautifully designed series to serve as an all-rounder in any situation. Just like imma, be ready to immortalize your nights with the new vivo V25 series.

Continue Reading: A Peek Into The Mind Of Virtual Musician Maie

Finally, the Madz are back to heal our minds and souls with their music.

Related: the stars align for star magic’s beyond the stars concert tour

The University of the Philippines Madrigal Singers, also known as the Madz, is the country’s premier choir and one of the most awarded choral groups worldwide. Take this, Madz is the first choir in the world to win the European Grand Prix for Choral Singing (the Olympics of choral competitions) TWICE (1997 and 2007), almost winning a third one in 2017. World-class Filipino talent indeed!

THE BANAAG NATIONAL CONCERT TOUR 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Philippine Madrigal Singers (@philmadzsingers)

After two years, the Philippine Madrigal Singers are now back on the road and ready to captivate our ears and souls once again as they go on tour this year entitled, The Banaag National Concert Tour.  “Believe there is always a glimmer of light, of hope, even in the direst of moments, especially when you know you are not alone,” the announcement on their Facebook post read. On the first leg of the national tour, they enchanted audiences in Southern Luzon, performing in the provinces of Catanduanes, Albay, Camarines Sur,  Quezon, and Laguna.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Philippine Madrigal Singers (@philmadzsingers)

Currently, the multi-awarded choral group is on their Visayas leg, serenading our kababayans in Bohol, Cebu, Samar, and Leyte. Their shows are usually held in cathedrals where they also conduct choral workshops with their fellow choristers, sharing their fiery love and passion for music.

THE MADZ 

The Philippine Madrigal Singers was formed in 1963 by the National Artist for Music, Professor Andrea Veneracion. They are composed of musically talented students, faculty, and alumni from the different colleges of the University of the Philippines and is now being led by Mark Anthony Carpio, the choirmaster. The group was also recognized by UNESCO as Artists for Peace in 2009 for “putting fame and influence at the service of UNESCO’s ideals and efforts to promote cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue and a culture of peace.” 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Philippine Madrigal Singers (@philmadzsingers)

In 2012, the Madz also received The Brand Laureate Premier Award from the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation to recognize the choir’s “significant contribution to the world of choral music, producing new compositions and choral settings for Philippine, Asian and International songs, spreading the beauty of this genre and giving a good musical experience to the audience.”

THE SPELLBINDING TALENT

The Madz recently got viral when a video of their angelic rendition of Megastar Sharon Cuneta’s Bituing Walang Ningning made rounds online earlier this month. As per Dee Jai, the poster of the now-viral Facebook video, the heavenly a capella number happened as the Madz were waiting for their takeout in a restaurant in Albay. “Ganito po sila pag nasasarapan sa foods!” she said in her caption. (Their impromptu performance then became widely admired by netizens as it has now been viewed more than a million times.)

If you haven’t heard any of the Madz’s performances yet, you can watch their awe-inspiring presentation of Elton John’s Circle of Life while they were in Spain in the video below.

For more details and announcements regarding the Madz’s tour performances, you can check their Facebook page here. 

Continue: Chick this out: experience fried chicken in a bold way with this hip asian fusion restaurant

We’re calling it, Dara is a fashion chameleon.

Dara’s really out here collecting fashion week invites like infinity stones for the last few years. The good thing about not having brand ties? Being seated front row to all of the shows in every fashion capital. In fact, Dara is in Paris as we speak, and her fans are hyped up knowing that she’s the type to go all out when it comes to fashion. (Remember when she brought Chocnut with her in 2019?) She doesn’t just dress up, she studies each designer’s aesthetic before deciding on what to wear in their shows. While we wait for her stylish fits this year, here’s a round up of Dara’s best fashion week looks over the house.

READ MORE: 11 Times Sandara Park Was The Supportive Ate That You Needed

1. BALMAIN, S/S 2019

Sometimes we forget how petite Dara actually is. She can easily fool us into thinking she’s 5’9″ when she stepped out in this Balmain mini dress with power shoulders in 2019.

2. VIVIENNE WESTWOOD, S/S 2019

Dara in a cropped jacket, skirt, and shirt with oversized collar? She swapped the usual boots for wedges styled with socks at the Vivienne Westwood show.

3. THOM BROWNE, S/S 2019

Dara in Thom Browne will always make sense. She nailed the whole look from her suit with a frayed duck detail, the mini backpack, and the Mary Janes.

4. OFF-WHITE, F/W 2019

Dara attended the Off-White F/W 2019 show in an oversized distressed logo sweater and blue leather equestrian boots. Yes, please!

5. COURREGES, S/S 2019

Dara wearing a hat as a hoodie? Very on brand. The shearling quilted vest by Courreges looked just as cozy.

6. ANN DEMEULEMEESTER, S/S 2019

Who doesn’t love goth Dara? At the Ann Demeulemeester show, she wore an all black coat, a leather glove, and debuted a darker look. Kylo Ren would be proud.

7. KENZO, S/S 2019

Only Dara can make florals look groundbreaking at Paris Fashion Week. The fact that she wore red brows casually goes to show how bold she is.

8. MARINE SERRE, S/S 2019

Dara’s already been in Oakleys way before everyone else as seen on her dark monogram look at the Marine Serre show.

9. VIVIENNE WESTWOOD, F/W 2019

Dara’s always in colorful streetwear, but for Paris Fashion Week, she wore a printed coat, a shirt, her pearl choker and boots by Vivienne Westwood. Punk but classy, we like.

10. BALMAIN, F/W 2019

Fact: Dara kills it in Balmain every single time.

11. RICK OWENS, S/S 2019

Dara going incognito mode with a wool coat, tiny glasses, and geobasket hi-top sneakers by Rick Owens is correct.

12. ANN DEMEULEMEESTER, F/W 2019

We’re convinced that Dara can wear anything at this point and still look good. HOW?

All photos from Oh-Dara

CONTINUE READING: Even After All This Time, Sandara Park Is An Artist Truly Worth Looking Up To

Maria Clara at Ibarra is the latest series to adapt Jose Rizal’s seminal novel, but with a distinctly Gen Z twist.

Related: Everything You Need To Know About The New Gen Musical Series, ’Lyric And Beat’

Noli Me Tangere is Jose Rizal’s classic novel that remains one of the most important books written in Philippine history. Even though a tale that exposed the ills of Spanish rule was written more than a hundred years ago, the novel remains impactful. To this day, most schools see the book as required reading for students. You probably read it when you were in school. But as you were reading the book, have you ever wondered what your life would have been like if you were among the characters? That’s the question the upcoming TV series Maria Clara at Ibarra is going to answer with their Gen Z take on Rizal’s fictional world.

THIS AIN’T MANILA ANYMORE

On the surface, GMA 7’s upcoming historical teleserye seems to be another adaptation of the book. But the show takes a distinct left turn with its premise. Instead, the series follows Klay, a young, independent, and overworked nursing student who’s apathetic to what’s happening in the world. One day, she is implored by her teacher to read Rizal’s novel, which she does. But, she falls asleep while reading the book, which causes her to get magically pulled into the novel’s world. All of a sudden, Klay finds herself in 1887’s Philippines where she meets characters such as Maria Clara and Crisostomo Ibarra.

This fish-out-of-water story then finds Klay adapting to her new surroundings as she comes across the book’s many colorful characters. At the same time, Klay’s modern-day ideas on society, women, and more clash with the period’s colonial mentality. Barbie Forteza takes on the lead role of Klay. Meanwhile, Julia Anne San Jose plays Maria Clara with Dennis Trillo embodying Crisostomo Ibarra. Rounding out the cast are Tirso Cruz III (Padre Damaso), David Licauco (Fidel), Andrea Torres (Sisa), and Juancho Trivino (Padre Salvi).

NEW GEN MARIA CLARA

Already, the inherent merits of this Zig Dulay-directed soap opera present itself. This isn’t a run-of-the-mill adaptation, with the wildcard of Klay adding an all-new dimension to the story. Even if you’ve read the book, the tale to be told in this show will definitely be different. It opens up the possibility for many comedic moments in this historic drama as two different periods learn to adapt to each other. Is Klay going to teach Maria Clara how to say “serve,” “bestie,” and “slay?” It remains to be seen. Also, the friction between Klay’s more modern and progressive views and that period’s more conservative thinking can lead to some interesting and insightful scenarios. The elevator pitch of “Gen Z transported to the world of 1887 Philippines” has potential.

More importantly, the show may also start needed conversations on Philippine history and remembering our past. Aside from being classics, the books that teach us the power of speaking up for what is right. The past months have shown us how easy it is for people to forget Philippine history or not learn the proper lessons of the past. Maria Clara at Ibarra may just remind us of why we should always remember where we came from to build a better future for ourselves.

This series was meant to promote nationalism and love for the country. But at the same time, the show could also discuss how we as a society have changed. It’s important conversations wrapped in what is a fun, unique, and entertaining story that makes the show one to check out. Maria Clara at Ibarra premieres on GMA 7 this October 3.

Continue Reading: 17 Museums To Visit To Get Your Daily Dose Of Philippine History

Buying a house? In this economy? These young celebrities said yes to that with their dream homes currently on the way.

Related: 9 Filipina Stars Who Achieved Big Things Before Turning 18

When it comes to the list of goals people want to achieve in their lives, getting to build or buy their very own house sits at the top of many a list. To be able to call yourself a homeowner is a true achievement. It signals that you’ve reached a point in your life where you’re financially stable enough to afford your very own house. That is something these following celebs can attest to. Thanks to years of hard work in the industry, these stars were able to save enough money to achieve the ultimate goal, their own home. Check out the following personalities who are currently in the process of making that dream a reality.

DONNY PANGILINAN

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Donny Pangilinan (@donny)

At just 24-years-old, Donny Pangilinan has achieved something that not many people of his age can say, he’s a proud homeowner. No stranger when it comes to houses, he has his own place and even renovated a portion of his family home. But the A-list actor went to the next level when he revealed on Instagram that his dream crib, which he fondly calls Casa Donato, is currently under construction. Once it eventually opens, fingers crossed he’s going to do a house tour for his YouTube channel.

BELLE MARIANO

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Belle Mariano 🧚 (@belle_mariano)

If there’s one word to describe this moment, it’s dasurv. The past few years has seen Belle’s career skyrocket following mainly being on the sidelines of the spotlight. And all her hard work paid off now that she recently broke ground on her dream home. “Still pinching myself! Dreams really do come true!” shared an understandable excited Belle on Instagram. Needless to say, the fruits of her labor are bountiful. Project owner Belinda A. Mariano? We know that’s right!

RANZ KYLE AND NIANA GUERRERO

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ranz Kyle (@ranzkyle)

For anyone who watches the vlogs of Ranz, Niana, or anyone from the Guerrero family, you would know that their family home is the backdrop of many of their adventures. But be prepared to say goodbye to their old home as the Guerrero family is set to move to their dream house soon. In June 2021, Ranz, Niana, and the rest of their family broke ground for their new home at their family lot in Antipolo, Rizal. Their new house’s construction has been delayed for a few years now so this has definitely been a long time coming.

KATHRYN BERNARDO

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kathryn Bernardo 🐘 (@bernardokath)

As one of Philippine entertainment’s biggest stars, Kathryn Bernardo has achieved a lot in her career and life. But probably one of her biggest achievements was when she finally was able to begin the construction of her new home in Antipolo. Kathryn first bought the land in 2016 as the home serves as her gift to her parents, Min and Teddy. Given Kath’s noted design tastes, we have no doubt her new house will be an aesthetic haven.

FRANCINE DIAZ

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Francine Diaz (@francinesdiaz)

To be able to buy your parents their very own home is the goal for many. That’s also a wish Francine Diaz can proudly say she has achieved. Thanks to her numerous successful acting roles, the Gen Z star was able to buy her family a house and car. But the life goals don’t stop there though as Francine already has her sights set on buying a second home. In an interview with Karen Davilla earlier this year, Francine revealed that she’s currently saving up to buy a bigger home for her family. “Siguro [‘yung pangarap ko] bigger na house pa kasi this one parang marami kami tapos lumalaki pa ‘yung mga bata.” A talented actress and a loving daughter, we love to see it.

BARBIE FORTEZA

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Barbie Forteza (@barbaraforteza)

One key to financial success is to plan and invest your money wisely. Proper investments can lead to major payoffs in the end such as is the case with Barbie Forteza. The Maria Clara at Ibarra star thought long term about her money and now, she’s in the beginning stages of getting her dream home built. Dear self, I am so proud of you. Keep doing what you’re doing and don’t forget to have fun while you’re at it,” wrote Barbie in the caption.

JUSTIN DE DIOS

@mybujingjing Jah and his fam site visit on their soon-to-be new home. © @archt_hd Instagram #SB19_JUSTIN #SB19 #SB19Justin #atin #JahDeDios #fyp ♬ original sound – Bujing

SB19’s story is one of rags to riches. While the group was initially seen as a joke, they have now become the biggest P-pop group in the country that is slowly cementing their status across the world. And thanks to their success, the boys have been able to appreciate the finer things in life, such as Justin whose new family home is currently under construction. It’s a deserved achievement with how hard he was worked alongside the rest of SB19.

RYZZA MAE DIZON

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ryzza⁷⁷⁷🧚‍♀️ (@ryzzamaedizon_)

Ever since we first got to know Ryzza Mae Dizon on Eat Bulaga, the former child star turned teen star has continuously worked her way to achieve her goal of building a home for her family. And after nearly a decade in the industry, Ryzza saw the fruits of her labor as she was able to commence the construction of her dream home at the end of 2021. She’s definitely gone a long way from that energetic first we first saw.

Continue Reading: 9 Content Creators Who Achieved Major Life Goals Very Early On