Prepare yourself for an intense cinematic experience as QCinema International Film Festival returns for its 10th anniversary.

Related: These Filipino Films (And Tilda Swinton) Are Coming To You In The Part IRL, Part URL QCinema International Film Festival 2021

Probably the biggest celebration of quality cinema in the country organized by a local government unit, QCinema International Film Festival returns to bring us “intensely acclaimed” local and international films. Fueled by intense love and passion for cinema, QCinema has provided a platform for many homegrown filmmakers, whose works have resonated across the world.

Some of them include Dwein Baltazar’s Oda sa Wala and Glenn Barit’s Cleaners, both of which are best picture winners and have once been considered as the world’s top-rated movies. QCinema also brought award-winning titles like Parasite, Shoplifters, and Happening to our shores, offering us a unique window to the world. This year, celebrating its first decade, QCinema promises an intense film experience that you should not miss.

IN10CITY

It was in 2013 when the QCinema International Film Festival was born, organized by the Quezon City Film Development Foundation. “Our filmmakers are among our city’s greatest assets and it’s our duty as our city’s leaders to give them every opportunity to hone their talents and skills and provide them venues to showcase their creativity so they can be our partners in nation-building,” shares QC Mayor Joy Belmonte in a speech that’s included in the fest’s vibrant trailer. “Maybe one day the QCIFF will not just be the new kid on the block, but be among the world’s best and most prestigious.”

And yes, after a decade of fulfilling our cinematic desires with great intensity, QCinema has evolved from being a newbie to being the country’s premiere international film festival. For its first 10 years, the festival has received over 2000 entries, supported 105 film grantees, and spent a hundred festival days and counting. It is therefore apt that this year, QCinema celebrates its 10th edition with the theme, In10city: A Decade of Intense Film Experience.

QCINEMA 2022 PROGRAMME

This year, QCinema has prepared intense cinematic experiences for you with a diverse lineup that boasts 58 international and local titles across 10 sections. Opening the fiercely exciting programme is Ruben Östlund’s Palme d’Or-winning satirical dark comedy, Triangle of Sadness. What makes the film’s premiere in the country even worth the hype is the star-turning performance of our very own Dolly de Leon.

Romanian thriller To The North by Mihai Mincan, on the other hand, first premiered in the Orizzonti section in Venice Film Festival and stars another local veteran talent, Soliman Cruz, in the lead role as a Filipino sailor who discovers a Romanian stowaway in a transatlantic ship. The film is the festival’s closing film this year and promises a gripping storyline that will put you on the edge of your seat.

ASIAN NEXT WAVE

After two years, the QCinema’s main competition section, Asian Next Wave, comes back with offerings from the Southeast and East Asia regions who will vie for the Pylon Award. This year’s acclaimed line-up of titles includes He Shuming’s debut film Ajoomma, a vacation dramedy set in South Korea that is also Singapore’s entry for the Academy Awards’ Best International Film category. The Cannes-winning Japanese sci-fi drama Plan 75 also joins the lineup. Written and directed by Chie Hayakawa, the film features a dystopian Japan where the elderly are encouraged to voluntarily euthanize as a solution to a super-aged society. The film also stars Filipino actress Stefanie Arianne in a lead role as Maria, a Filipino laborer.

Also in the category is Davy Chou’s Return To Seoul, which first premiered in the Cannes Film Festival’s Un Certain Regard section earlier this year. Also set in South Korea, it follows the story of a headstrong woman who returns to the country’s capital to look for her parents. The film is also Cambodia’s entry to the Oscars Best International Feature Film race.

Thai filmmaker Sorayos Prapapan also joins the competition with his first feature film Arnold Is A Model Student. Part of this year’s Locarno Film Festival’s official selection, Arnold is a satire that is partly inspired by Thailand’s “Bad Student” movement and foregrounds the authoritarianism present in Thai schools. Makbul Mubarak’s Venice winner Autobiography is also part of the lineup. This is the debut of the first-time Indonesian filmmaker whose film plays with the genre of politics, crime, and thriller. 

Finally, two Filipino films complete this year’s QCinema competition lineup: Ana Isabelle Matutina’s abortion drama 12 Weeks, which was also part of this year’s Cinemalaya offering where it copped the best actress trophy for Max Eigenmann; and Loy Arcenas’s third feature film Elehiya, which stars the iconic Cherie Gil as a widow who’s entangled in the memories of her failed marriage and a decaying island. This also marks the late actress’s last on-screen performance.

QCSHORTS

Last May, QCinema also unveiled its selection for its Filipino shorts section.  Six filmmakers have received P350,000 film grants to produce their creations. “Ang daming talentadong mga kabataan,” said Belmonte during QCinema’s kick-off event last August 31 at the Gallery MiraNila in Quezon City. “Our philosophy is that we give opportunities to our talented filmmakers, give them support and create an environment where they can thrive.”

The selected works are Jaime Morados’ Ang Pagliligtas Sa Dalagang Bukid, Whammy Alcazaren’s BOLD EAGLE, Glenn Barit’s Luzonensis mula 7 hanggang 9, Rocky Morilla’s Mga Tigre Ng Infanta, Austin Tan’s Ngatta Nadaki y Nuang (Why did the Carabaos cross the Carayan), and JT Trinidad’s sa ilog na hindi nagtatapos.

DIGITALLY REMASTERED CLASSICS

Earlier this week, QCinema also announced the classic cinematic masterpieces that it will feature for its Digitally Remastered category. This includes Mike de Leon’s 1976 horror film Itim (The Rites of May) starring Charo Santos-Concio, whose restored version first premiered in the 75th Cannes Film Festival.

We’ll also get to see a 4k restoration of what is considered to be one of the greatest films of all time, Wong Kar Wai’s In The Mood For Love. Starring Maggie Cheung and Tony Leung, the film is set in 1962 Hong Kong and  follows the melancholy love story of two people who live in the same building. The film first premiered in Cannes Film Festival in 2000 to critical acclaim, where Leung won the best actor prize.

MIDNIGHT SERIES

Also coming back this year is QCinema’s section that caters to lovers of genre and fantasy films, the Midnight Series (formerly Before Midnight). This year, the festival offers three bone-chilling tales to satisfy your terror-filled fantasies. First off is Lorcan Finnegan’s psychological thriller, Nocebo. Starring Eva Green, Mark Strong, and our very own Chai Fonacier, Nocebo follows a fashion designer (Green) suffering from a mysterious illness who gets unexpected help from a Filipino carer (Fonacier) who practices traditional folk healing. Fresh from its European premiere in Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival of Catalonia in Spain, Nocebo also marks the first co-production effort between the Philippines and Ireland.

Also part of QCinema’s spooky selection is Ana Lily Amirpour’s Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon. A part of the prestigious Venice Film Festival’s official competition lineup last year, Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon is about a young woman named Mona Lisa Lee (Jeon Jong-Seo) who escapes from a mental asylum and has psychokinetic powers. She then goes to the city of New Orleans where she tries to make it on her own. The film also stars Kate Hudson, Ed Skrein, and Craig Robinson.

Completing the Midnight Series lineup this year is the award-winning body horror film, Huesera. A feature debut from Mexican genre filmmaker Michelle Garza Cervera, Huesera tackles the fears and anxieties of being a first-time mother. It first premiered in Tribeca Festival where Cervera won the Best New Narrative Director award.

SCREEN INTERNATIONAL

For QCinema’s specially curated section of international titles, the fest brings back acclaimed works from renowned and established auteurs. Most of them are award-winning films that are currently in the running for the Academy Awards’ best international feature film race. These include frontrunners and Cannes winners Close by Lukhas Dhont, Corsage by Marie Kreutzer, EO by Jerzy Skolimowski and Holy Spider by Ali Abbasi which have also been recently announced as nominees of this year’s European Film Awards in different categories. 

Crimes of the Future is the newest sci-fi offering from the king of body horror David Cronenberg. It first premiered in Cannes Film Festival 2022 and stars Oscar nominees Viggo Mortensen and Kristen Stewart, and French actress Léa Seydoux. Coming-of-age drama and Locarno Film Festival winner I Have Electric Dreams from Costa Rican director Valentina Maurel is also part of the lineup. Wrapping up the selection is another big title from the prolific Korean auteur Hong Sang-soo called Walk Up which has previously screened at the New York Film Festival and Toronto International Film Festival.

NEW HORIZONS

Another exhibition section that’s coming back to QCinema this year is the New Horizons, which spotlight debut or second features from promising emerging filmmakers. One of them is Alice Diop’s French legal drama Saint Omer which bagged the Grand Jury prize along with the Luigi De Laurentiis Lion of the Future award at this year’s La Biennale. 

Sundance winner Utama by Alejandro Loayza Grisi is also part of the lineup. The film follows the story of an old couple trying to survive a drought and is Bolivia’s representative at this year’s Oscars. South Korean detective drama Next Sohee is this year’s closing film at Cannes’ International Critics Week, the first South Korean film to do so. German films Piaffe by Anne Oren and The Ordinaries by Sophie Linnenbaum complete New Horizons’ excitingly diverse offering this year.

RAINBOWQC

Foregrounding the colorful LGBTQ+ experience, the RainbowQC is a special exhibition section which highlights fresh and established queer voices from across the globe. Some powerful titles like Queer Palm winners Stranger By the Lake by Alain Guiraudie, Céline Sciamma’s Portrait of the Lady on Fire, Catherine Corsini’s The Divide, and Joyland by Saim Sadiq headline this year’s selection. 

Canadian lesbian drama You Can Live Forever  by Mark Slutsky and Sarah Watts, and Samantha Lee’s Billie And Emma, which won the QCinema’s Gender Sensitivity Award in 2018 will also screen in the section. Angry Son, a Japanese film from Kashou Iizuka which follows the complicated life of a gay teenager and his Filipina mother, also joins the RainbowQC selection.

Vahn Leinard Pascual’s Alingasngas ng mga Kuliglig, Gabriela Serrano’s Dikit, Petersen Vargas’ How to Die Young in Manila, Trishtan Perez’s I get so sad sometimes, and Norvin delos Santos’ Isang Daa’t Isang Mariposa are the award-winning short films that tackle queer stories which will also screen as part of the RainbowQC Shorts section. 

SPECIAL SCREENINGS

For its special screenings, QCinema 2022 proudly presents the Philippine premieres of local and international films that have toured around different prestigious film festivals. Love Life by Japanese filmmaker Kōji Fukada is a marriage story that screened in Venice Film Festival as part of the official competition lineup. Moroccan mother-son drama The Damned Don’t Cry by Fyzal Boulifa also premiered at a sidebar event in the La Biennale this year where it won a special award. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UsSISeKw3g

Sengedorj Janchivdorj’s Mongolian coming-of-age The Sales Girl earned rave reviews after it premiered under the A Window on Asian Cinema section at the Busan International Film Festival. Finally, our very own Lav Diaz will take part in QCinema this year with the national premiere of When The Waves Are Gone (which premiered out of competition in Venice), a political thriller which stars John Lloyd Cruz, Shamaine Buencamino, and Ronnie Lazaro. 

ADVANCE SCREENINGS

QCinema 2022 also features a new section called Advance Screenings where you get to experience a first-look at upcoming and most anticipated feature films. These include Santiago Mitre’s historical drama Argentina, 1985 and Nikyatu Jusu’s debut horror film Nanny which are both produced and/or distributed by Amazon Studios. 

Venice winner Bones and All, a cannibal romance by Luca Guadagnino starring Timothée Chalamet and Taylor Russell, will also screen in the festival before its wide release on November 23. You’ll also get to see in advance Maria Schrader’s She Said, which chronicles the genesis of the Me Too Movement. Backed by Universal Pictures, it stars Oscar nominee Carey Mulligan and Zoey Kazan.

ASIAN SHORTS SECTION

Finally, QCinema 2022 gives us a window to up-and-coming cinematic talents from Asia with some critically acclaimed works that tackle themes of identity, memories, and survival through the short film format. The Water Murmurs by Story Chen won the short film Palme D’or at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. It follows the emotional journey of protagonist Nian who, amid natural disasters caused by an asteroid, decides to say goodbye to her childhood friend. 

Dancing Colors by M. Reza Fahriyansyah was part of this year’s Locarno Film Festival and follows Dika, who tries to hide his true identity through dance. Stories of survival, on the other hand, are central in Cannes winner Lili Alone by Zou Jing and the Berlinale short Four Nights by Deepak Rauniyar. Two Filipino short films complete the Asian Shorts Section with Timmy Harn’s Papaya and  Don Josephus Raphael Eblahan’s The Headhunter’s Daughter, which became the first Filipino film to bag the Sundance Short Film Grand Jury Prize.

QCINEMA 2022 VENUES AND TICKETS

From being screened in one cinema last year, QCinema 2022 will hold theatrical screenings in five venues: Gateway Cineplex, Trinoma, SM North Edsa, Cinema 76, and in Power Plant Mall in Makati. The tickets will be priced at 300 pesos. 

Meanwhile, you can also watch the QCShort 2021 and 2022 selection including this year’s RainbowQC Shorts lineup via the online streaming platform, VivaMax. You’ll be able to treat yourself to short film goodness from November 22 – 26 with the online tickets priced at 299 pesos.

The 10th QCinema International Film Festival will run from November 16 to 25, 2022. Head on to QCinema’s Facebook and Instagram pages to get updated about the schedule and some free screenings at the festival that guarantees you intense film experiences.

(This post was updated on November 9, 2022)

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Sharing the advocacies she holds strongly and her support for beloved friends, Kyline Alcantara shows why she’s loved by her Sunflowers in a recent vlog.

Related: Mavy Legaspi And Kyline Alcantara Launched A Podcast Made For And By Wallflowers

If you’re looking for someone who embodies beauty and substance gracefully, then Kyline Alcantara may just be that ideal person. Not only is the young star considered one of this generation’s Gen Z celebrity It-girls, she also supports impactful causes with pride. Just recently, the twenty-year-old all-around performer proudly waved the Filipino flag at the Migrant’s Arirang Multicultural Festival in South Korea as the honorary ambassador of Korea Tourism Organization.

She has the looks, overflows with talent, and boasts an altruistic spirit. This is why millions of her fans she fondly calls Sunflowers look up to her and follow her light. Yes, her shine is undeniable.

In the latest episode of her vlog, Keeping It Real With Kyline, she takes a trip down memory lane with past photographs. Here, Kyline exudes class, confidence, and casual kindness that will make you root for her even more. While the photos themselves hold colorful stories, it also foregrounds Kyline’s inner beauty. Want to know more about the advocacies she holds dear or her current love for fashion? Scroll through to see some of the highlights.

BREAST CANCER ADVOCATE

Right off the bat, we get to see Kyline’s big heart as she discusses her advocacy for breast cancer awareness. The photograph shows Kyline and Mavy Legaspi at the Estée Lauder Companies Philippines’ Pink Ball, a fundraising charity event which aims to honor The Breast Cancer Campaign’s 30th anniversary and to support the Philippine Foundation For Breast Care.

“Kaming dalawa ni Mav, of course advocates kami [for breast cancer awareness],” shares Kyline. ”Kasi we have friends na ‘yung parents nila or sila may breast cancer.” The Pink Ball has successfully raised almost 10 million pesos, enough to fund over 6000 mammograms for underprivileged women. “Ang sarap sa pakiramdam kasi ang daming tao sa event na ‘yon to support the awareness na ipinapalabas ng Estée Lauder,” adds Kyline who radiates with her passion for the cause.

EVER-SUPPORTIVE FRIEND

Kyline’s supportive barkada vibe is at full display as she comments on her photos with friends. First, she uses her video platform to support her friends, Julie Anne San Jose and Rayver Cruz, for their concert on November 26 where she and Mav are the guest performers. “Grabe, sobrang talented ng dalawang ‘yan. [They] can dance, can sing, can host, can definitely act,” Kyline gushes. “Sabi ko nga sa kanila, feeling ko ‘pag nagka-baby sila, imposible na hindi talented.”

Kyline also expresses her love for her bestie Bianca Umali as she reacts to a cute photo of them on a motorcycle. “Ilang beses ko na naman nasabi ‘to na naging strong ‘yung relationship naming dalawa,” she says of Bianca who was also her co-star in the hit supernatural teleserye, Kambal, Karibal. “But now, dumating na ‘don sa point na if may problema ‘yung isa, parang takbuhan namin ‘yung isa’t  isa. I love that girl so damn much.”

CLINGY AND RESPONSIBLE SUNFLOWER IDOL

Kyline shows her clingy side as she talks about her gigs and mall shows during the pandemic. You can’t miss her love for her Sunflowers while commenting on a photo of her in a squatting position while singing on-stage. “Nasa-sad ako kapag sinasabihan ako na huwag masyadong lumapit [sa audience] kasi COVID is still there. Pero ako kasi ‘di ko talaga mapigilan kasi gusto ko talaga sila mahawakan and malapitan,” explains Kyline about the Bulacan guesting that she had with Mav. “Ang pinakamalapit ko lang na puwedeng ma-reach sila is ‘yung nakaupo ako.”

But Kyline’s wish for more interaction with her fans was eventually granted during a packed mall show that she did with Bianca recently. “Ang sarap lang sa pakiramdam na andun ‘yung mga sunflowers, nakakapag-interact ulit physically,” recalls Kyline of the event where they promoted their Sunday variety show, All Out Sundays. And on a more serious note, she also reminds everyone to always be responsible about their health. “We can’t deny that the COVID is still around the corner. Sana sa lahat ng pupunta sa public events, sana mag-ingat pa rin po tayo, always wear your masks, just be safe.

TOP PODCASTER

Apart from being an actress, dancer, singer, and gamer, Kyline is also a podcaster. She and Mavy produce unscripted content, which talks about life and love through their Spotify offering, MavLine on Me With Mavy and Kyline. The couple was also a part of the Spotify for Vodcasters event where they joined esteemed directors and fellow podcasters Antoinette Jadaone and JP Habac as panelists giving advice to emerging vodcasters and podcast enthusiasts. “I’m so proud of us and [of Mav] kasi hindi naman madaling mag-salita about different topics. Like knowing our industry, kahit anong sabihin mo, may masasabi pa rin ang mga tao,” shares Kyline whose podcast channel now sits on Spotify’s top five list. “And ang sarap sa pakiramdam din na maraming tao ang nakakarelate at umaasa pa rin na may pag-ibig.”

VOGUE FAN

“Oh my gosh, guys. May Vogue Philippines na!” Kyline raves about the newest Filipino edition of the luxury fashion magazine as she reacts on her and Mavy’s photo during the launch of Vogue Philippines. She also shares that she has long been an avid supporter of the brand, even mentioning her love for Vogue US, British Vogue, and Vogue Japan. “Nanonood ako lagi ng Vogue content sa YouTube dahil nga nai-in love na ako sa industry ng fashion,” says Kyline, who has also become one of the Filipino endorsers of the Italian luxury fashion brand, Fendi. “Ang saya-saya ko kasi may Vogue na sa Pilipinas,” fangirls Kyline.

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British pop band, The Vamps, is returning to Manila for a must-see concert as part of their greatest hits world tour.

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The 2010s was a great time for people who followed British pop with acts like Adele and Ed Sheeran dominating the global charts. Fans of UK-based pop groups also had a lot to take in. The second British invasion was real as groups like One Direction and Little Mix made their debuts and proceeded to become a force in the scene with hit singles and classic tunes that resonate to this day. And in that swirl of British pop perfection was a group that quickly became a favorite of many around the world, The Vamps. And Filipino fans will get to experience them live once more with their new tour heading to the Philippines next year.

THE VAMPS IN MANILA

Recently, The Vamps announced that they will be bringing their highly anticipated GREATEST HITS TOUR to Asia in February 2023. They will visit a total of six cities, Tokyo, Osaka, Bangkok, Singapore, Seoul, and Manila, which serves as the final stop on the Asian leg of the tour. Get ready to rock out and sing your heart out to the best of The Vamps when the tour arrives in Manila on February 17 (Friday), 2023, at 8 PM, at the Mall Of Asia Arena.

Debuting in 2012, The Vamps, aka Brad Simpson, Connor Ball, Tristan Evans, and James McVey, reached star status in 2014 when their debut album, Meet The Vamps, became a global hit. Since then, they have produced numerous hits including Somebody To You, Oh Cecilia (Breaking My Heart), and All Night. The Vamps continue to release chart-topping albums, break records (they’re the first band to headline London’s O2 Arena five years in a row), and entertain audiences around the world. And speaking of, they’re set to do that in Manila next February.

The band has performed in the country a few times already, including a memorable guesting on ASAP, but this concert feels extra special given its purpose and it’s been years since they’ve been back. As the tour’s name suggests, they’re bringing their greatest hits fit for the arena and their newer work like Cherry Blossom.

Live Nation PH Members Pre-sale takes place on 8 November (Tuesday) 10 AM – 11:59 PM. Tickets to the general public will go on sale by 9 November (Wednesday) from 10 AM onwards. You can check out Live Nation PH’s website for more details.

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Halloween makeup doesn’t have to be complicated. You can look cute and put-together with this trick.

Halloween is fast approaching, which only means one thing: themed parties from left to right all weekend. Whether you’re planning on going to one event or bar crawling around the metro, it’s best to have options. Halloween only rolls around once a year, so it’s the perfect time to get creative, and put your best mug on. 

Dressing up for the spooky holiday is for everyone, even those who don’t have the skill to paint their face. So, what’s a fool-proof technique to look all made-up this season? Applying temporary tattoos. 

@solanathagreenfairy Ib: @_.melodious_ 💓 this is gonna change my life ahhh #fairy #makeup ♬ From the Grave – ssolana

If you were a kid in the 90s and early 2000s, fake tattoos were a fun way to play pretend. Thanks to creative beauty enthusiasts and makeup artists, there are more ways to make use of the temporary face and body art. Recently, beauty Tiktokers have been applying temporary tattoos to their simple eye looks, and it’s definitely a quick and easy way to look all glammed up this season. 

Butterfly Eyes

@_.melodious_ Temporary Butterfly Tattoo Makeup 💚🦋This turned out way better than I thought it was going to! I loved it! just missing some white dots, I unfortunately don’t have any white eyeliner 😣 Stitched video @Cristiana.ioana._ #butterfly #butterflymakeup #temporarytattoo #makeup ♬ ALIEN SUPERSTAR – Beyoncé

Dressing up as an ethereal fairy, or a Y2K queen? This butterfly eye look is perfect for you. Beauty TikToker, Melody Bruno, started a trend by taking a simple eyeshadow look and elevating it by cutting a butterfly tattoo in half, and using water to apply each wing to both ends of her eye, like a decorative winged liner. While she doesn’t claim to have started using fake tattoos as makeup in general, she definitely got everyone to try this out. 

@_.melodious_ Temporary Tattoo Flower Freckles 💙🌸 Thank you for all the love on the temporary tattoo makeup looks 🥹 I can’t wait to make more videos! Now to stop being sick 😭#flowerfreckles #flowermakeup #temporarytattoo #makeup ♬ TALK THAT TALK – Jay.Soul x Justo The MC

Elevate this look even more by adding gitter, or even floral embellishments. As seen on Melody’s other TikTok videos, there’s no rule on how much or how little ornaments you should apply. Layer it and put as much as you want until you’re satisfied with it. Get creative! 

Related: Try The Halloween It-Girl Makeup Look Of 2022: Vampire Skin

Taking Fake Tattoos To The Next Level

@caykeface Clown Makeup using face tattoos by @yazhijitemporarytattoo #tattoomakeup #tattoos #sfx #fyp #fyptattoo #fypmakeup #makeup ♬ original sound – caykeface

If you’re up for the challenge, or have a passion for a complicated beat, try taking this trend to the next level. You can find bigger face tattoos with intricate designs, such as this spooky clown look by makeup artist, Caytee. Smear fake blood, pop in some contacts, or add in other embellishments to enhance the overall look. 

@kalinakuli I’m shook how good they’re 😳 #halloweenmakeup2022 #skullmakeup #sceletonmakeup #quickhalloweenmakeup #easyhalloweenmakeup #temporarytattoo ♬ original sound – EX7STENCE™

Another great example is this glamorous skull makeup by beauty TikToker, Kalina Kuli. She uses temporary tattoos for her lips, down to her neck, but adds a little bit of spice by using black shadow and liner to create the eyes and nose. So glam rock! 

Removing The Temporary Tattoos

@_.melodious_ Reply to @zennierote it actually comes off fairly easy 😊 #temporarytattoo #butterflymakeup ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

Temporary tattoos are known to stay on the skin for periods of time—but we’re here to bust that myth. Since you’re using these products on the face, you might feel hesitant to try it out. Don’t fret, because you can easily take it off at the end of the night by using an oil based makeup remover. Everything will just melt off of your face in a matter of seconds. 

So, what are you waiting for? Try this look out for yourself. It’ll save you some time, and will make you look put-together for Halloween, too. 

Kintab Artists Group offers you a transcendent experience in its Bicolano art exhibit that will help you fill that emotional void from within.

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We turn to art for many different reasons. There are times where we just want an escape from the overwhelming and suffocating realities of life. Or perhaps we need a calming companion as we search for meanings to make sense of it all. And sometimes, when the going gets even tougher—when everything just seems to be a confusing and distressing blur, when emptiness crawls from within us—art significantly helps us mend that gaping hole and fill the void. This is exactly what a group of Bicolano creatives named Kintab Artists Group envisions in their ARTablado exhibit entitled, Kanigoan.

KANIGOAN, FILL THE VOID

Kanigoan is a Bicolano term which means to fill something empty whether it be physical, emotional, or conceptual. This is the chosen theme of the Bicol-based Kintab Artists Group for their exhibit presented by Robinson Land’s creative platform ARTablado.

“The title of the exhibition is the perfect piece of a puzzle that captures the very notion of art. A filler to a void,” states artist Vladimir Gutas in the exhibit’s rationale. “Its resonance transcends the physical. It touches on the inner workings of well-known emotions, bridges cultures, and disrupts norms and status quo.”

Since their foundation in 2013 in a small town in Camarines Sur, Kintab Artists Group has been actively championing and propagating Bicolano art and talents as well as promoting the region’s diverse cultural heritage and rich local history. This year, the group offers a panoply of visual experiences through 80 artworks made by more than 20 artist-members. 

ARTablado, on the other hand, was launched by Robinsons Land in 2020 during the National Arts Month, as a part of its commitment to empowering and showcasing the mastery and ingenuity of Filipino artists. A portmanteau of “art” and “entablado,” ARTablado has hosted 29 exhibitions so far and has given a platform to over 150 emerging and established Filipino artists. Its mission is to even expand its portfolio and to include photography, architecture, film, cultural artifacts, literature, music and performance art in its future editions. It has also been actively supporting Kintab before, hosting their exhibitions in its hometown in Naga. 

THE ARTISTS

“We are not designed to be alone,” adds Grutas. ”We may believe we are empty on the inside, but we may simply be the fulfillment or completion for someone else.” Kanigoan features the works of Albert Serrano, Aldrin Amaro, Bob Maltizo, Claireyenne Malanyaon, Cris Fragata-Gomez, Dennis Concepcion, Edgar Baesa, Elden Lumaniog, Gladys Borromeo, Harold Gomez, Jaime Coralde III, Jojit Begino, Jurrel Magistrado, Lea Gan, Lorenzo Miguel Credo, Mac Allison Calleja, Marivi Abas Encinas, Mary Rold Gomez, Mia France Dorosan, Michael Florano Sales, Nick Valenzuela, Noe Garcia, Ray Ubaldo, Renalyn Borebor, Reymel Gonzaga and Richard Cruz.

“We are cups that are expanding. We are beasts that are always hungry,” Grutas continues. “This exhibition may not be the fill that these Bicolano artists hoped for, but it will certainly fill questions of identity and their place in the artworld.”

Now fill that void and catch the Kanigoan exhibit until October 31 at the Level 3 of Robinsons Galleria. Visit the Facebook pages of ARTablado and Kintab Artists Group for more information about the event.

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Donny Pangilinan’s first-ever short film, Graduation, marries both his love of acting and advocacy for promoting just social causes.

Related: 10 Times Donny Pangilinan Was A Walking Green Flag

With his showbiz family background and matinee idol looks, some may stereotype Donny Pangilinan as an actor only interested in the cookie-cutter or mainstream roles. But that isn’t the case. Donny is a dedicated actor who shows us new facets of himself with his new projects. He also isn’t afraid to use his platform to speak up on certain social issues. And that came together in Donny’s latest film, the sentimental and poignant, Graduation.

GRADUATION

Graduation comes from Called to Rescue Philippines, a non-profit that helps rescue children who are missing, have been abused, or are trafficked, and Media Works APG. The film’s goal is to shed light on the reality and trauma of survivors of human trafficking. International director Dean Colin Marical, whose other socially focused films include Manila Death Squad and Reminiscences of the Green Revolution, helms the project.

It stars Donny as Topher and Nour Hooshmand as his younger sister Kika. Topher and Kika are on their way to her graduation party following the ceremony. But on the way, Kika suffers a panic attack and refuses to attend the party. What starts as a tense situation de-escalates when Topher calms his sister with the techniques they know. While it is never said, it is implied that Kika is a survivor of human trafficking. Topher is meant to represent the support survivors need who may still be dealing with the trauma of their past.

To that end, the closing seconds of the movie leaves a message for viewers. It tells the audience that survivors of human trafficking need a community and support for them to overcome the harrowing experience they went through.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

While most of us are excited to see Donny back on the big screen in An Inconvenient Love this November, it’s nice that he is championing an important cause in this film. Human trafficking may seem like a foreign concept to some, but the harsh reality is, it’s still very much a real problem that affects many Filipinos both locally and abroad.

Graduation teaches us that while human trafficking survivors may look alright on the surface, there can still be deep trauma that they still have to deal with. Kika’s graduation is proof that they can make it in life following their ordeal. But they also need that helping hand and support shoulder to help them overcome their struggles. While the movie is less than four minutes long, it says enough to get its point across with the help of Donny and Nour’s strong acting. At the very least, it reminds us to have a little more compassion in this world.

Continue Reading: Meet Gabriela Serrano, The Young Filmmaker Ready To Put More Of Women’s Stories In The Forefront

Catriona Gray, Ivana Alawi, Nadine Lustre, Kylie Verzosa, Nicole Cordoves, and Siobhan Moylan transform into disco queens for one night only.

Boo! It’s finally halloween season, our favorite time of the year. Just when you thought it would be an average working day, stars like Catriona Gray, Ivana Alawi, Nadine Lustre, Kylie Verzosa, Nicole Cordoves, and model Siobhan Moylan drop a surprise photoshoot and music video entitled, Disco Heaven. The brainchild is none other than celebrity makeup artist Jelly Eugenio who gathered all of his muses for one night only.

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A post shared by Angelo Eugenio (@jellyeugenio)

Echoing the words of Mother Monster, the concept was inspired by her early single of the same track title. Jelly transformed all the girls into disco divas each with a specific character behind every muse. Of course, if you’re a fashion geek, this shoot is packed with dozens of references from pop culture. It’s reminiscent of Studio54’s reign in the 70s, the glitz and glamour of past MAC campaigns, and Gucci’s short film: GG Psychedelic, which is fitting as some of the stars were seen sporting the brand.

If you’re still undecided who to go as for Halloween, here’s your sign. And yes, you can dance, you can have, and you can have the time of your life. See all the beauty and fashion tidbits from Disco Heaven below.

IVANA ALAWI AS JESSICA RABBIT

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A post shared by Ivana Alawi (@ivanaalawi)

“I wanted her to look like this 20s, 30s na mga movie star,” Jelly shares on Ivana’s beauty look. The purple matte eyeshadow with strategically-placed rhinestones and the aubergine waves were a match made in well, disco heaven. Then she wore a body-hugging velvet dress a la Jessica Rabbit and hat by Just Bonita. The cherry on top? That Gucci brooch that looked blindingly beautiful.

NADINE LUSTRE AS CHER

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You know you’re that girl when the reference for the beauty look is yourself. “She has done things that no other girl in the local show business has done,” Jelly says about Nadine Lustre, his long-time client for almost a decade. This “classic Nadine look,” as he calls it, is her signature sleek, mid-parted hair, a strong, but sensual graphic liner, and glossy lips that reminds us of the Goddess of Pop, Cher.

With the fashion not to be outdone, she wore the finale look from Just Bonita’s show, which was an embellished see-through dress accessorized with velvet gloves, silver Gucci mini bag, and heels.

KYLIE VERZOSA AS DIANA ROSS

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A post shared by Kylie Verzosa (@kylieverzosa)

Turn up the volume! “I wanted her to look the most disco, 70s, gorgeous big hair,” shares Jelly. Serving a look ala Diana Ross, Kylie Verzosa stuns in ultra-shimmery eyeshadow with placements of different sizes of glitter, paired with a berry lip. “I really chose that for her because that’s her vibe. She’s really shiny and sparkly. I mean, look at her. Just look at Kylie. She’s giving sexy.” Kylie wore jewelry by LVNA, silver bikini by Cruz MNL with star tapies by AJ Javier, sparkly gloves by Just Bonita, and metallic heels by Gucci.

NICOLE CORDOVES AS BARBARELLA

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Whether you see the Britney Spears or Barbarella reference, either way you’ve won. “My whole vibe for her is more 60s, mas mod.” The baby blue eyeshadow with rhinestones instead of lashes on the undereye was just divine, especially with the bouffant hair. Nicole Cordoves was a 60s doll in a chainmail ensemble by Thian Rodriguez and sparkly bra by Jaz Cerezo. The fitting punctuation? The conch-like oversized sequined earrings by Kirsten Ariana.

CATRIONA GRAY AS KYLIE MINOGUE

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We can’t get Catriona Gray out of our heads in this embellished hooded dress by Martin Bautista and jewelry by LVNA. With heavy references on Kylie Minogue and Beyoncé, this is her giving peak goddess energy. “Catriona’s makeup is really cat-like. I wanted her to have the longest, most feline eyes we’ve ever done.” The long braided ponytail tied the whole show-stopping look, complete with the 80s red and pink blush.

SIOBHAN MOYLAN AS MARILYN MONROE

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Filipino-Irish model Siobhan Moylan is a modern Marilyn Monroe in Disco Heaven. “Siobhan really reminds me of my very first muse, si Allison Harvard of ANTM.” Jelly revealed that it was his OG muse that introduced him to the world of makeup. “Her (Siobhan) beauty for me is very alien-esque. You know, the big forehead and the beautiful features.” The single rhinestone tear drop, sealed with a red lip and the classic Marilyn bob was otherworldly, not to mention the intricately-embellished mini dress by Ushi Sato.

See the music video for Disco Heaven below.

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A post shared by Angelo Eugenio (@jellyeugenio)

Photography @bjpascual
Creative Direction @eldzsmejia
Makeup @jellyeugenio
Hair @paulnebreshair (Nadine, Catriona), @renzpangilinan (Kylie, Nicole and Siobhan), @santiagoraymond (Ivana)
Styling @lynalumno @la_stylingstudio, @adrianneconcept (Ivana)
Assisted by @rafvillas
Production Design @justine_arcegabumanlag
Video @sjcea
Jewelry @lunabydrakedustin
Selected shoes & accessories from @gucci
Special thanks to @ibaydrake @ssilifeph

Our favorite group of alien warriors, the Guardians of the Galaxy, head to Earth for the holidays as they search for a very special gift.

With the announcement of Disney+ finally coming to the country, Filipinos could not be more excited about its expansive offering, especially of the much-loved Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Since Marvel Studios brought us its explosive world of superheroes and villains, Pinoys have fallen hard for its canonical brand of entertainment. Just look at this video back in 2019 and witness the passion of Filipino Marvel fans as they scramble up a mall escalator to watch Avengers: Endgame. And for the holiday season, Marvel spoils us yet again with a special gift from the genius of James Gunn, The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special.

Related: Heads Up, Pinoys! These Exciting Shows And Movies Await You On Disney+

A SPECIAL GIFT

After five years, we’ll get another chance to see our favorite ragtag team of alien misfits from Andromeda, this time on Earth, imbibing the gift-giving spirit as they course through twinkly lights, illuminated candy canes, and inflatable elves.

In the new trailer, we find the guardians congregating and mulling over their plans as the Terran holiday season comes near. “We don’t have time for trivialities like Christmas,” asserts the fierce Nebula (Karen Gillan). “But Peter’s so sad about Gamora being gone. Maybe if we go to Earth for a really wonderful Christmas gift, it would make him happy,” reacts Mantis (Pom Klementieff), referring to their leader, Star-Lord aka Peter Quill (Chris Pratt), who is still depressed after his girlfriend Gamora (Zoe Saldaña) died in the hands of Thanos in Endgame.

“Something special he will never forget,” Mantis adds. “What about ‘someone’ special?” muses Drax (Dave Bautista). And that special gift turns out to be none other than the “legendary Kevin Bacon” whom Star-Lord seems to idolize as he’s mentioned his name a couple of times in the past.

As the guardians land on Earth, immersing themselves in what is for them an alien festivity, Mantis and Drax waste no time to invade the Footloose star’s house and deliver him as a very special gift to appease Star-Lord’s sadness. 

Our Holiday gift to you – 11.25.22 – only on Disney+ pic.twitter.com/1M0Ky89sWA

— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) October 25, 2022

“The Holiday Special is the greatest thing I’ve ever done in my life,” director James Gunn shares in an interview. “It’s totally ridiculous, and every day we can’t believe that we’re making it. We all completely love it. It is unlike anything that anyone’s ever seen before.” Holiday Special marks Gunn’s third Guardians film and his first foray into television for the beloved franchise. “I can’t wait for people to see it.”

Also starring are Vin Diesel as a buff, young-adult Groot, Bradley Cooper as Rocket, Sean Gunn as Kraglin, and the MCU debut of the adorable psychic Spacedog Cosmo. The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special, with serves as Marvel’s second holiday special following Werewolf by Night, promises a high-octane festive experience as it premieres on Disney+ this November 25. Let this serve as an appetizer of sorts before the third, and final, Guardians of the Galaxy movie drops next year.

Continue Reading: Disney’s New Show, Firebuds, Stars A Young Filipino-American Hero

Aside from Sandara Park being a K-pop star, she’s also Pinoy at heart with her Tagalog tweets being relatable moods.

Related: 11 Times Sandara Park Was That Supportive Unnie You Needed In Your Life

Even after all these years, Sandara Park’s connection to the Philippines hasn’t waned. One of 2nd gen’s most iconic K-pop idols isn’t afraid to let her inner Pinoy out, especially on Twitter. If she isn’t raving about her favorite Filipino food, she’s tweeting or replying to fans, and often does so in fluent Tagalog. With the superstar status that Dara has attained in her career, it feels surreal to see her engage in Tagalog on Twitter so casually.

But that’s why we love our pambansang krung-krung so much. She’s just like the ate of your barkada who isn’t afraid to be real and have fun. Here are some of Sandara’s most relatable Tagalog tweets that are whole moods.

HER LOVE OF JOLLIBEE

Grabe…. Sarap….🤤🤤🤤 hindi ako small eater pag nandito ako sa Phil. pic.twitter.com/nheHZnZPzL

— Sandara Park (@krungy21) July 30, 2022

Jollibee is literally one phone call away from having Sandara Park as their latest ambassador. She even said that it’s okay if she doesn’t get a talent fee as long as she gets to eat as much Jollibee as she wants.

MEETING BELLA POARCH

Salamat!!! It was great to meet you😆Sana magkita ulit tayo next time!!! 😀👍🏻 https://t.co/757cl8jRhq

— Sandara Park (@krungy21) October 7, 2022

It was a link-up we didn’t see coming, but are 100% here for. The fact that Bella wrote the tweet in Korean, but Dara responded in Tagalog makes it that much better.

THOUGHTS ON STUDYING

Hindi…😂 sayang nga eh.. pero wala ako interest sa study.. nung student ako. (Ngayon din hahaha)

— Sandara Park (@krungy21) August 5, 2022

In response to a fan asking if Dara knew Spanish since she was watching Money Heist, the K-pop star said something we think many can relate to.

WHEN YOU HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR

Actually,hindi talaga ako special guest sa show🤣 came here just to support and watch lang talaga dapat. Kaya wala ako dalang damit pang stage😭 puro beach wear lang dala ko ahahaha

— Sandara Park (@krungy21) July 29, 2022

Dara was so real for sharing this tidbit of information with us. She really is just like us, not thinking about work and only here for the beach. It’s a good thing she had a back-up black mini-dress on standby for her K-pop Masterz In Manila performance.  

DIGIMON

Ano un… alam ko lang digimon🤣🤣🤣

— Sandara Park (@krungy21) June 21, 2022

Even if she’s been in the industry for more than a decade, Dara still has some concepts to learn, such as when a fan asked her if her upcoming album will have a digipack version.

VERSIONS OF THE ALBUM

Hala~ malamang isa lang🤣🤣🤣 hindi ako boy group hehe

— Sandara Park (@krungy21) June 21, 2022

When Dara drops her new album (hopefully soon), don’t expect multiple versions of it as seen in this tweet. Though we do recommend that Dara drops a DA and RA edition because that would be everything.

THINGKING OF DUBAI

Since I’m in Dubai, naalala ko ung movie na “Dubai” I want to watch it again hehe romantic

— Sandara Park (@krungy21) April 22, 2022

When you’re in Dubai, what do you do? If you’re Sandara Park, you watch the 2005 Filipino classic, Dubai, starring Aga Muhlach, Claudine Barretto, and John Lloyd Cruz.

THE CASE OF THE FLYING SHOE

Ewan ko… d naman lumipad ung shoes ko during rehearsals… i think iba talaga energy level ko sa actual show!!!

— Sandara Park (@krungy21) April 18, 2022

For those who are wondering, Dara did find her flying shoe from that epic 2NE1 reunion at Coachella

FILIPINO FOOD IN SEOUL

Sisig & kang kong & garlic rice & red horse! Ang dinner ko ngayon~ ang sarap!!! 😋😋😋 take out ko~ 🍽 may nahanap akong masarap na Pinoy resto sa Seoul. Super happy ako!!! 😆😭👍 pic.twitter.com/cDUsd9aWYG

— Sandara Park (@krungy21) December 12, 2020

It’s no secret that Dara loves Filipino food. Even if she no longer lives in the Philippines, she still goes out of her way to enjoy some sisig and Red Horse.

POSING IN THE COLD

Malamig pero dapat swag parin ako~ Pose!!! ❄️🤣📷 pic.twitter.com/A1HG1NoQ9z

— Sandara Park (@krungy21) December 3, 2020

When you’re a style star like Sandara Park, the weather won’t stop you from serving looks, whether it be in the freezing cold or the scorching heat.

Continue Reading: In Or Out? Here Are 12 Of Dara’s Top-Tier ‘Fits At Fashion Week

Word on the street is that this Filipino-favorite brand is in its long-awaited comeback era. Leading the show of force for Mossimo is no less than the supreme himself, Daniel Padilla

If you know, you know. This expansion of one of the internet’s favorite abbreviations is perhaps most fitting to talk about what was truthfully a thinly veiled attempt at a teaser. It can be easy to go incognito, especially when cloaked in a roomy hoodie, in this case a cream colored one with the letters M, O, S, and I peeking from the edges. But when your jawline or signature smile is seared into the consciousness of many, your identity doesn’t stay a secret for very long. Thanks to the sleuthing of the world wide web, it became clear that the iconic classic American apparel brand, Mossimo, was about to meet the new man in its life. Enter: Daniel Padilla.

In its era of revival, the brand is doing something for the first time since its Philippine launch in 1998: introducing a celebrity endorser. With Daniel Padilla front and center of this comeback, Mossimo strikes a serious chord between the longtime fans of the brand, as well as introduce it to a new generation. Cutting across ages and points-of-view, the appeal and edge of casual streetwear is resonant.

Ushering in a new face, a new vibe, and ultimately, a new Mossimo, there are no words to encapsulate this new age debut than triumphant. Now that’s how you pass the vibe check.

The Supreme Comes Again

A coming together of forces, Daniel Padilla and Mossimo are making it clear that they are in it for the happy vibes, which pretty much inspires the collection the leading man, box office royalty, and OG teen king sports. In fact, if you have followed the filmography of the actor, you will likely see facets of the roles he has played in the images rolled out for the first phase of the collaboration. But despite the connection to his beloved characters, the threads from Mossimo is still very much Daniel Padilla.

Beyond that, however, there is an ease and wearability to the fashion that will help express your personality. From graphic prints, a versatile color scheme, and a range of fits, there is a Mossimo piece that will easily integrate into your unique sense of style. It isn’t lost on us that this drop also ushers in its holiday efforts, of which its selections can help complete your seasonal wardrobe.

Just Happy Vibes

Whether you’re a fan of fashion or of Daniel Padilla, Mossimo promise a lot to look forward to in this connection. Naturally, details are scarce, as it should be. The supreme himself writes nothing more on Instagram than a cryptic, “Mmmmmmmm…” If that means his lips are sealed tight or basking in the glory of this introduction, then we’ll take it and run away with it for the time being. But if the happy vibes are any indication of what’s to come, then consider us hooked.

CONTINUE READING: FROM THEN UNTIL NOW, DANIEL PADILLA PROVES WHY HE IS HIS GENERATION’S SUPREME