From Hello, Love, Again, Wicked, Moana 2, and more, the watchlist stays packed this November.

Related: The New Movies And Shows Coming Your Way This October 2024

The closer we get to the end of the year, the bigger the big screen and streaming releases become. Or, at least, that’s what’s on the docket this November with a handful of some of the biggest movies of the year, many of which are highly anticipated sequels. It’s an eventful month, not just because we’re full-throttle into the Christmas holidays. Scroll down for some of the new movies and shows this November that are on our radar (and maybe should be on yours, too).  

RED ONE

Diva Santa down. This A-list holiday blockbuster kicks into motion when Santa Claus – Code Name: RED ONE – is kidnapped. The North Pole’s Head of Security (Dwayne Johnson) must team up with the world’s most infamous bounty hunter (Chris Evans) in a globe-trotting, action-packed mission to save Christmas. You can watch this in cinemas now. 

WE LIVE IN A TIME

Get the tissues ready. Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh play Tobias and Almut respectively in this tearjerker that follows two people from two different backgrounds who navigate the ups and downs of love and life. The film is currently playing in cinemas nationwide.   

HELLO, LOVE, AGAIN

Five years after the world was first introduced to Kathryn Bernardo’s Joy and Alden Richards’ Ethan, the sequel is finally here. Picking up after the events of the first movie, we find Joy and Ethan reuniting in Canada but under different circumstances. Can they rekindle that love or is this goodbye forever? Find out when one of the biggest Filipino movies of the year screens in cinemas this November 13. 

EMILIA PEREZ

One of the most acclaimed movies of the year is finally making its streaming debut. The musical drama centers on a feared cartel leader who enlists a lawyer to help her disappear and achieve her dream of transitioning into a woman. Get in on the hype train when Emilia Perez streams on Netflix beginning November 13. 

DUNE PROPHECY

If you’re in the mood for more Dune, this show is for you. Set 10,000 years from the time of Paul Atreides, this prequel series centers on Harkonnen sisters and the formation of the Bene Gesserit. Dune’s backstory and lore are a doozy, so there will be a lot to chew on in this series. The show streams on Max this November 17, just in time for the streaming service’s arrival in the Philippines on November 19. 

WICKED

It’s finally time. This adaptation of the beloved musical tells the story of the witches of Oz when they meet as students at Shiz University. Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), who stands out because of her green skin, and Glinda (Ariana Grande), a popular and ambitious woman, forge an unlikely yet profound friendship. A journey across the land of Oz and an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (Jeff Goldblum) test their friendship and take their lives on very different paths. It all goes down when the movie screens in local cinemas this November 20. 

HERETIC

Another month, another A24 horror movie. This time, it’s about two Mormon missionaries whose faith is tested when they enter the home of a mysterious man with even more mysterious intentions as he forces them to escape his dark traps for their freedom. It plays in local cinemas this November 20.  

CRUEL INTENTIONS

Did someone say “modern TV remake of a popular 90s movie”? This adaption centers on two step-siblings at a Washington D.C. college who worked their way up the campus’ social ladder. After a hazing incident goes wrong, however, the two scramble to do anything it takes to maintain the status they have achieved, which includes seducing the Vice President’s daughter. You can stream this on Prime Video beginning November 21. 

HOW TO SPOT A RED FLAG

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DonBelle’s next project is over the horizon, and it’s radiating red flag energy. The digital series finds two young people trying to work things out after the girl catches the guy cheating on her with another woman. Will this red flag boy turn into a green flag? Get the answers when the series streams on Viu this November 25.  

MOANA 2

The sea (aka Disney) is calling you back to the cinema for Moana’s latest adventure. This time, it finds her teaming up once more with Maui three years later on a new mission as Moana answers the call of her ancestors to travel to unknown waters. You can catch this in cinemas on November 27. 

OUR LITTLE SECRET

With Christmas less than two months away, the holiday movies are in full swing. And one on our radar is this film starring Lindsay Lohan and Kristin Chenoweth. Thrilled to spend her first Christmas with her boyfriend’s family, Avery heads home with Cameron for the holidays — only to be unpleasantly surprised when she discovers that her ex, Logan, is dating Cameron’s sister. After learning that their significant others are siblings, the two resentful exes must then spend Christmas under one roof — while hiding their romantic history. Sounds like a mess we can’t wait to see, which so happens to be on November 27 on Netflix. 

NEW SEASONS

As if there couldn’t be any more new shows to watch this month, we get these new seasons. Arcane Season 2 (November 9), Cobra Kai Season 6 Part 2 (November 15), Silo Season 2 (November 15).

Continue Reading: The New Movies And Shows Coming This September 2024

Sex and the City, you will always be famous!

Related: ICYMI, 15 Fashion Trends To Put On Your Radar In 2024

Picture this: late ’90s New York, sun shining, and Carrie Bradshaw is strutting down the street in a pink tank and white tutu skirt, coral lipstick on, clutch in hand, feeling on top of the world. Then—out of nowhere—a bus speeds by, splashing her with NYC puddle water. The twist? Her own face is plastered on that bus with the tagline, “She knows good sex and isn’t afraid to ask.”

Fashion can be quite amusing. You look back at old outfits and cringe, wondering, “What was I thinking?” But Carrie Bradshaw? One of the main protagonists of Sex and the City wore every trend like she invented it. From slip dresses and fur coats to her iconic Manolos and that unforgettable Fendi Baguette (the one that got stolen!), her style was a masterclass in confidence. Sex and the City wasn’t just a show; it became a style bible whose impact is still felt to this day. So, let’s rewind for a little fashion history and revisit the iconic trends that Carrie—and the show—turned into timeless looks still influencing us today.

FENDI BAGUETTE BAG

The original Baguette bag, created by Silvia Venturini Fendi, hit the market in 1997 and was an instant classic. But it really blew up in pop culture when Carrie Bradshaw rocked it in the famous Sex and the City episode What Goes Around Comes Around.

One of the most memorable scenes featured Carrie getting robbed “somewhere south of Houston Street.” The mugger wanted her purple sequined Fendi Baguette, but she confidently shot back, “It’s a Baguette.” It definitely gave us major vibes from that scene in Clueless when Cher said, “This is an Alaïa,” while getting ordered to the ground and ruining her designer dress. 

The Baguette has not only inspired countless designs worldwide but also influenced local brands to add their own spin. One standout you can get your hands on is GVN the Label, which offers a chic take on Alaïa’s Le Teckel—a Baguette-style bag with a sleek, dachshund-inspired design (after all, “Teckel” is French for dachshund). 

LAKE DRESS

Before the infamous pond incident, Carrie wore a dress that features a subtle floral print, a flouncy hem, and cute flutter sleeves for that feminine vibe, while the asymmetrical cut and PVC mules add a modern twist. For season 3, episode 18, two versions of this floral midi dress from Richard Tyler’s Resort 2001 collection were used since Carrie ends up taking an unexpected dip in Central Park’s boating pond with Big. 

If Carrie’s slip dresses and floral midis have you inspired, there are plenty of local options out there that channel that same romantic vintage vibe. Thrift shops on Instagram, like a personal favorite Florice (@shopflorice), have tons of ’90s and early 2000s-inspired floral dresses that totally capture Carrie’s aesthetic. So if you’re looking to add a little SATC nostalgia to your wardrobe, these secondhand gems have you covered—minus the splash.

URBAN SHOE MYTH

When I think of Carrie Bradshaw, I immediately think of shoes—like the red Manolos that got stolen in season three or the pink Louboutins that got drenched during Miranda’s labor. But the ultimate Carrie shoes? The royal blue Manolo Blahnik Hangisi pumps from Sex and the City: The Movie. Those crystal-embellished beauties became the ultimate SATC fan-fave after Carrie wore them for her city hall wedding to Mr. Big, sparking countless dupes.

And let’s not forget that shoe moment in Season Six. In the episode A Woman’s Right to Shoes, Carrie attends a baby shower with Stanford, only for her silver Manolo Blahnik peep-toes to get stolen. Naturally, drama ensues as Carrie tries to get the host to replace the stolen shoes.

HEADBANDS

Charlotte York wearing a blazer by Marc Jacobs while being accosted by older Jewish ladies who are trying to set her up with their sons pic.twitter.com/90m9R9j0E9

— hannah (@dumbandfunn) September 21, 2024

Before Sex and the City changed the game, headbands were mostly seen as a childhood accessory. But everything shifted when Charlotte, the princess of Park Avenue, started rocking them on the show. With her signature elegance, she paired headbands with pearls, creating the ultimate formula for Upper East Side chic. Charlotte really knew how to elevate the headband from a simple kid’s accessory to a stylish statement piece.

BAYONETTA GLASSES

Charlotte York w glasses >> pic.twitter.com/e3LcMXldpa

— hannah (@dumbandfunn) October 22, 2024

Bayonetta glasses are having a moment these days, and if you trace its history, you’ll find a connection to SATC. Charlotte York’s influence helped transform glasses from unfashionable to chic, leaving a lasting impact on future generations. As an art dealer, she made eyewear a staple in her workplace look, adding an intellectual vibe that turned heads, especially when she seduced her divorce lawyer and later her husband, Harry. 

CARRIE’S ICONIC NECKLACE

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Carrie’s gold nameplate necklace was one of her most iconic accessories throughout Sex and the City’s six seasons. In one of the final episodes, when she loses the necklace in Paris, it leaves her feeling lost and disconnected. But once Sarah Jessica Parker’s Carrie Bradshaw wore her iconic “Carrie” necklace, it became a major fashion trend. No matter how much Carrie’s style changed, that necklace stayed a staple, inspiring fans everywhere to get their own. The piece made its return in “And Just Like That”, where Carrie is seen wearing it again as a source of comfort after Big’s death.

Now, nameplates have evolved, with modern touches like rose gold, diamonds, and unique fonts like Old English or all caps. They’re also the perfect piece for layering with other gold jewelry. Whether you’re wearing your name, a loved one’s, or even your birth year, it’s a personal statement that’s not going anywhere. 

BONUS: THE COSMOPOLITAN

@binge Cosmo, please 💁‍♀️ Stream every episode of Sex and the City on #BINGE #SATC25 #ISawItOnBINGE #SexandtheCity #SATC ♬ original sound – BINGE

Not a wearable trend but if you’re a Sex and the City fan, it’s hard not to imagine Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte, and Miranda with Cosmos in hand during their wild nights out. But fun fact: the drink didn’t actually appear until season two’s The Awful Truth, and only Samantha and Stanford were sipping them. Carrie, on the other hand, went for vodka on the rocks. 

After its SATC debut, the Cosmo became the ultimate girls’ night drink, totally owning the early 2000s vibe. But as time passed and craft cocktails took over, the Cosmo fell from grace, becoming a bit cringe and associated with out-of-touch wealth. As one person hilariously put it in Vice, “The Cosmo is what you drink when you want to get wasted with no calories and have a UTI.” Even in the first SATC movie, Miranda asks, “Why did we ever stop drinking these?” and Carrie’s answer? “Because everyone else started.”

Continue Reading: 10 of The Best Y2K Fashion Moments in Teen Movies

When all the world’s a stage, it’s sometimes hard to get your footing quite right and steady, especially in such a competitive career choice. This is something very familiar to actor, singer and stage performer Andrea Macasaet.

Related: In The Fast-Paced World of Theater, Eva Noblezada Finds Strength In Slowing Things Down

Before her rise to Broadway stardom with SIX the Musical, Macasaet was once very close to giving theater up. But then a small spark and a chance taken on herself. Next thing she knows, she’s under those big bright lights and wearing those iconic green sleeves.

SIX the Musical just finished its first-ever run in the Philippines this October 20th, giving Filipino fans a taste of what they’ve been missing all these years since the inception of the iconic theatrical marvel created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss. Initially performed at the cultural Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2017, SIX has since been seen on grand stages such as that of the West End and Broadway. It also has quite the list of accolades, from winning several Tony Awards to being nominated for a Grammy for their Broadway Opening Night live recording.

Andrea Macasaet, one of the original Broadway Queens who took on the role of Anne Boleyn finds solace in that very same recording, knowing that the live screams of the audience not only include the voices of Lin Manuel Miranda and other stage legends, but also the excited and proud calls of her family. But it hasn’t always been easy for the performer. Even now, there are still striking moments of uncertainty for her. One thing Macasaet is sure of is that wherever this career takes her, she will always find time to ensure that her feet stay firmly planted on the ground.

THE MAKINGS OF A QUEEN

Born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Macasaet’s early life was shaped by this cultural blend of her Filipino parents and the Canadian environment surrounding her. Her dad hails from Lipa, Batangas while her mom is from Pasay. Growing up, she watched her entire family work hard and prepare for their jobs with the utmost care.

There’s something about this Filipino work ethic, the hopes of making one’s family proud; it’s an energy that lingers throughout Macasaet’s life, including her career. “As Filipinos, we’re just ingrained to work hard and show the best of ourselves in any room,” she says affirmatively in our interview. Yet hard work and determination weren’t the only things imbued onto her by her Filipino roots. She also saw adventurous karaoke competitions, even at an early age.

She started taking singing lessons at the age of six and was first introduced to the musical theater scene in elementary school. But she never truly pursued it seriously until she got to high school. As a child, she had the Filipino icon of Lea Salonga to look up to. Yet there was something very intangible about her experience in a smaller city within Canada wherein she didn’t see blatant representation in close proximity.

“When you’re growing up, you’re going to dance studios and local plays, and the people there don’t look like you. It makes it hard to see tangibility in that career,” she says so, earnestly. That’s why it’s so important for her that now, she’s in a position of being someone she needed when she was younger.

EMPOWERED BY SIX

The journey to achieving her dreams hasn’t exactly been easy for Macasaet. She finds fortune in the fact that she never felt the familial pressure of having a concrete and practical career path, a stereotype seen in most Asian representations. Her parents, although they never wanted to see her rejected and heartbroken, have always been supportive of her dreams.

Macasaet does, however, stress that the verbiage and expressions were something she and her parents worked hard on. “There have been times when things didn’t go my way and my parents didn’t know how to navigate what that looked like emotionally. The easy thing to say is, ‘Okay, that didn’t work out! You can always do something else!’ While that is encouraging, it might not always be helpful,” she admits. But having a loving and supporting family is only ever half the battle, especially in such a make-or-break industry.

When she first auditioned for SIX, it was at a point in her life where she had completely given up musical theater. She was getting rejection after rejection, and it was starting to take a mental and emotional toll on her. “I finally had enough because it was making me question my worth and it didn’t put me in a great headspace,” she recalls.

At the time, she had been working at Lululemon and found that she liked her job. She went back to school and aimed to pursue a career in human resources. All of a sudden, she stumbled across open-call auditions for this elusive musical called SIX. It was the last day to submit and at the time, Macasaet didn’t have any representation.

But as if destiny was doing its thing to lead the artist to that very moment, when she got the call to go to Toronto, she took a chance and used her savings to fly herself to the last slot of the day for the Toronto auditions. It was a big risk, but she knew if she didn’t try, she would always be wondering what could’ve been.

That small step forward proved to be a game-changer and opened a gateway for Macasaet in terms of finding a place within the industry. It felt like a weight was lifted off her shoulders. She also found confidence in Anne Boleyn as a character who helped her become unapologetic about being herself.

“It was a gift to do it every night with inspiring women who are some of my closest friends even now. To be so free and authentically myself because – the way that Toby and Lucy have written Anne Boleyn is feisty, sharp and smart – she’s so fearless in what she wants! Playing that every night, it starts to soak into your everyday life; that fearlessness and being so, word for word, Sorry Not Sorry about how you walk the world.”

WHERE IS A QUEEN TO GO FROM HERE?

But even with the high she initially felt with SIX, the anxiety and pressure to constantly solidify her place in the industry will never truly go away. It’s a profession of uncertainties and with chances of stagnation, and it’s a daunting world to be a part of. She knows this very well.

“Choosing a career in theater is always going to be a scary, scary place. Of course, we’re only human. We’re going to feel anxious all the time. But I think we always have to remember that when we get the opportunity, there’s so much joy in it. We get wrapped up in ‘What’s going on next?’ or ‘I need to get booked for this,’ that when we do get the chance to do it and we’re in it, we forget to soak in the joy of doing it. We need to be experiencing life in the now, not like in the future.”

Feet firmly planted on the ground, and SIX behind her, Macasaet is now moving forward with brand new adventures in her career, and making previous dreams come true. Among other achievements, she played Mimi Marquez at the Stratford Festival production of RENT, something she once thought was unattainable. Beyond that, she also found herself in an all-Filipino production called Ma-Buhay!

For a little girl who didn’t see herself represented in the local productions around her small city, being part of something that is made by Filipinos for Filipinos was a gift she never thought she needed. With her spirit set in the right direction and the confidence gained from her time at SIX, Andrea Macasaet moves forward, taking the rest of her career one day at a time.

Photos courtesy of Andrea Macasaet

Continue Reading: Isa Briones On Family, Activism, Musical Theater, And Finding Hope In Hadestown

From covers to features, singers and besties Franz from VXON and Zephanie have often maximized their joint slay—and here’s proof.

Related: With Their First Album ‘20:20,’ VXON Aims For The Future

Vocals, style, charm…they’ve got it all. We love iconic talented duos, and a pair of besties have been carving a musical path for themselves. Though going different ways with their music and artistry, one in a P-pop boy group and one as a singer and actress, Franz of VXON and Zephanie are two labelmates and young artists with powerful voices, strong stage presence, and a wholesome friendship.

From covers of iconic Disney duets to their own ballad, Franz and Zephanie’s joint slays are plentiful and a great showcase of their talent. Here are just a few moments from the bestie duo that’ll make FranZeph your new faves very soon.

HAVING ‘THE VOICE’

#VXON_FRANZ
💡He was one the contestant in “The Voice Kids Philippines Season 1”. He sang "No One" by Alicia Keys during the blind audition

Interview 🔗: https://t.co/y3c6RjBVB3 pic.twitter.com/jLpyoKEpht

— Welcome to VXON 🤗 (see pinned tweet) (@VXONEmpireOFC) June 3, 2023

Did you know both Franz and Zephanie were contestants on different seasons of The Voice Kids Philippines? Franz auditioned in the first season, but unfortunately did not turn any chairs, and Zephanie made it up to the first week of semifinals of the second season. Though they didn’t end up winning their respective seasons, they’ve both carved their paths in music their own way.

DUETING DIVAS

The biggest collaboration between the two artists has to be Miss Kita, off of VXON’s debut album 20:20. The song is co-written by Franz (as well as fellow VXON member Sam) and performed alongside Zephanie as part of the duets in 20:20. VXON’s 20:20 album featured duet tracks by the members and their special featured guests, like Zephanie with Franz and AJ from G22 with C13 for O Kay Sarap.

Miss Na Kita is for the true yearners—and Franz and Zephanie totally channel the romance. The two also performed the track live at VXON’s album launch party.

WISH COME TRUE

@vxonofficial #VXON_FRANZ with @Zephanie at the WISH BUS 🚌🎶 They performed their collaboration song "Miss Na Kita" yesterday with a special arrangement. Stay tuned for their LIVE SESSION episode this FRIDAY at VXON Official's Youtube Channel! 🔥 #VXON #VXON2020 #ZEPHANIE #fyp #tiktoktainmentph #risingontiktok #tiktokmusikat #fypシ゚viral ♬ Miss Na Kita ft. Zephanie – VXON

VXON’s never been one to do what everyone else does, and they’re so supportive of each other’s solo endeavors—debuting with solo member tracks and features was a bold move, and showed exactly what kind of artists they wanted to be. So when Franz made his way to the WISH 107.5 Wish Bus with Zephanie to perform another live version of Miss Kita, it was yet another slay by the young artists.

OST ICONS

Zephanie’s basically VXON’s sister and bonus member at this point! The singer-songwriter joined the P-pop group back in 2022 for an original song, Luv Is: Caught In His Arms for the soundtrack of teen drama anthology Luv Is (2023).

BLOOM BESTIES

@frnzchuaa wag mag-alala buhay 'di karera!!!! 🏃🏃🏃@Zephanie ✨ #vxon_franz #fyp #tiktoktainmentph #risingontiktok #tiktokmusikat #fypシ゚viral ♬ Karera – BINI

Besides being musical talents themselves, FranZeph also have great musical taste. The two are just like plenty of best friends across the nation—they’re BLOOMs!

DISNEY PRINCE & PRINCESS

@frnzchuaa this is me (duet cover) @Zephanie ✨ #vxon_franz #fypシ ♬ original sound – VXON Franz Chua

If we had a piso for every time Franz and Zephanie covered a Disney song, we’d have at least four pesos—which isn’t a lot, but we’re thankful it happened that many times.

@frnzchuaa wouldn't change a thing (duet cover) @Zephanie ✨ #vxon_franz #fypシ ♬ original sound – VXON Franz Chua

From Shane and Mitchie duets from Camp Rock to songs from High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, romantic waltz ballads to heart-wrenching ones, these two love them some Disney tracks. From the harmonies to the high notes, their voices sound magical together—and we expect nothing less from a main vocalist and a Disney Princess.

@zephanieofficial a moment in love~ @VXON Franz Chua #JustForAMoment #cover #fyp ♬ original sound – Zephanie

Continue Reading: Wishing Upon A Star: 7 Times Zephanie Proved She Was An Actual Disney Princess

From KATSEYE’s Winx ensemble to Donny Pangilinan’s Frankenstein’s monster getup, these celebs’ pop culture Halloween costumes are their own moment.

Related: Dress Up As Your Favorite Reference, Baby, With These Pop Culture Halloween Costumes

We love when celebs refuse to be basic and put in their resources and effort for epic Halloween costumes. Pop culture references, popular or obscure, were a big trend this year and are the key to a memorable, iconic Halloween look. Whether they went glam, gory, or gorgeous, these artists and public figures served up some memorable costume ensembles that are totally going on the future Halloween costume Pinterest boards.

KATSEYE

KATSEYE gave the people what they wanted when they dressed up as the Winx Club for Halloween. Paying homage as well to a fan artist that drew the girl group as Musa, Layla, Flora, Stella, Tecna, and Bloom, KATSEYE served up colorful looks and basically won this year’s Halloween.

CHELSEA MANALO

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Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo manifested her dreams coming true with a stunning green Princess Tiana look. Grand and ethereal, Chelsea gave us yet another glimpse of how she’ll serve at the Miss Universe competition this November.

MARIS RACAL & ANTHONY JENNINGS

balik muna sa highschool era HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHHAHA pic.twitter.com/pcqlIJup4z

— Maris Racal (@MissMarisRacal) October 31, 2024

In a totally unexpected, hilarious, and adorably charming serve, actors Maris Racal and Anthony Jennings channeled their inner Eya (Nadine Lustre) and Cross (James Reid) from Diary ng Panget (2014). Maris posted a video of the two recreating the music video for Paligoy-ligoy, and it was the true embodiment of having fun with the Halloween season.

RHIAN RAMOS

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Look what you made Rhian Ramos do! The actress and Taylor Swift fan pulled off somewhat of an Eras Tour of her own, recreating iconic shots from the superstar’s album photoshoots. From reputation to folklore, 1989 to Midnights, Rhian Ramos (Taylor’s ver.) slayed her way through the eras this Halloween season.

GIAN BERNARDINO

ig/gian.pb

Cup of Joe vocalist Gian Bernardino gave Western extravaganza as Chappell Roan for Halloween. Complete with the drag makeup Chappell Roan dons, and the drama with which her outfits are also known for, Gian chose to serve diva this Halloween.

CARLOS YULO & CHLOE SAN JOSE

IG/niceprintphoto

In a great example of an iconic couple dressed up as another iconic couple, Olympian gold medalist Carlos Yulo and partner and content creator Chloe San Jose dressed up as Chucky and Tiffany Valentine, the Bride of Chucky, for Tim Yap’s Shake, Rattle, and Ball 2024 Halloween bash.

SABRINA CARPENTER

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A costume she’s been looking for since 2018, Sabrina Carpenter’s dreams finally came true as she got to dress up in the igloo outfit that Lizzie wore in The Lizzie McGuire Movie (2003). Her close friend Paloma Sandoval also went on theme as school principal Ms. Ungermeyer.

AMELIA DIMOLDENBERG

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Journalist and Chicken Shop Date host Amelia Dimoldenberg once again shows us how clever and lovable she is as she went all out for her Roz from Monsters Inc. (2001) costume.

BJ PASCUAL

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BJ Pascual kept it simple but impactful with a Sonny Angels costume, donning the distinct pink bunny ears and tiny wings—and, save for shorts and shoes, that’s it.

TYLA

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Halle Berry’s iconic looks were popular this year, and clearly Tyla was inspired by the actress this Halloween, too. Tyla dressed up as Halle’s character Sharon Stone from The Flintstones (1994).

HEIDI KLUM

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Heidi Klum, who has long cemented her status as a Halloween icon with her over-the-top, unique costumes, did not disappoint with her Halloween costume this tear. The supermodel and her husband Tom Kaulitz went out-of-this-world with matching ET costumes—his being normal ET, and hers being “ET in drag” for her Halloween bash.

DONNY & HANNAH PANGILINAN

The Pangilinans, siblings Donny and Hannah, donned bright colors and extravagant makeup for their costumes for the Shake, Rattle, and Ball. Donny went full green as Frankenstein’s monster, and Hannah dressed as Zendaya’s trapeze artist character Anne Wheeler from The Greatest Showman (2017).

ASHLEY GARCIA

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She does leave quite an impression! Content creator and our June cover star Ashley Garcia was gorgeous and gory as Sabrina Carpenter from the Taste music video. She totally committed with the fence through the torso, and it made for an iconic look.

Continue Reading: ICYMI, KATSEYE Recreated A Filipino Creative’s Fanart In Their Epic Winx Halloween Cosplay

Is it awkward seeing someone wear the same Halloween costume as you? Nope. It just shows that you have similar (and great) taste.

Related: ICYMI, KATSEYE Recreated A Filipino Creative’s Fanart In Their Epic Winx Halloween Cosplay

It’s official: Halloween 2024 is going into the Halloween Hall of Fame as one of the best yet. This year’s costumes were *chef’s kiss* as everyone and their mothers came through with killer costumes and even better references. But amid the serves, you might have missed a few celebs who were unintentionally twinning with their Halloween costumes this year. They shared the same inspos on their moodboard, and honestly, we’re ok with it, because if anything, it shows the multiple ways to slay and interpret the same costume. Check out the stars who had us seeing double with their same Halloween costumes below. 

BRENT MANALO, LA AGUINALDO, AND AJAA’S ASH RIVERA AS PATRICK BAETMAN

Blood-soaked white trench coat? Check. Face card? Check. Brent, LA, and Ash all understood that the key to a great Patrick Baetman costume is the charisma with slight unhinged vibes. 

MIMIYUUUH AND AC BONIFACIO AS ROSE

In the APT, we all fam. Mimiyuuh and AC channeled their inner pop-rock star with their Rose in the APT. music video cosplay, curly blonde hair included. 

MICHAEL SAGER AND JOHAN KYLE ONG AS BRUNO MARS

As one of the most popular songs of the moment, it wasn’t surprising to see celebs dress up as Bruno Mars in the APT. music video. But if Johan was Bruno in spirit, Michael aimed for a one-to-one recreation with the mustache and looked like he was part of the music video.

BRETMAN ROCK AND CLEO AND CARLOS YULO AND CHLOE SAN JOSE AS CHUCKY AND TIFFANY 

On one corner, we have uncle and niece, and on the other, it’s boyfriend and girlfriend stunning as the deadly doll couple Chucky and Tiffany. They killed it, figuratively, of course.

HEIDI KLUM AND JANELLE MONAE AS ET

When mother meets mother, you get this serve. As the queen of Halloween, Heidi Klum didn’t disappoint with her ET cosplay, something that also was on the agenda for Janelle Monae. But regardless of who you thought did it better, they both deserve their flowers for their dedication and attention to detail. 

MARIS RACAL AND SEAN TRISTAN AS FELIX CATTON FROM SALTBURN

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A post shared by Maris Racal (@mariesteller)

If we looked as good as Maris and Sean in a white tank top and angel wings, we too wouldn’t be shy about inviting our mysterious best friend we just met in college to spend summer at our family estate. 

CRIZA TAA AND KHIANNA, DEJA, HANA BESHIE, AND ODASHAFLOP AS GIRL, BOY, BAKLA, AND TOMBOY

@mscrizataa

as the UNKABOGABLE SUPERSTAR!!! 👑

♬ original sound – KHPeps14 🇵🇭 – Karl Paras

@khiannawithak @Vice Ganda @the.dejaa @Hana Beshie @O-A ♬ original sound – KHPeps14 🇵🇭 – Karl Paras

Can we talk about how they dressed up as one of Vice Ganda’s most popular and best characters? They ate that, and bonus points for Criza for playing all four characters herself. We love a versatile actress. 

CHIE FILOMENO AND BELLE MARIANO AS CHER

These divas! For the 2024 Opulence Ball’s theme of 70s disco, Chie and Belle gave their own interpretation of the legendary Cher, from the classic silhouette to the long, straight hair. Undisputed queens of the dancefloor we fear. 

SABRINA CARPENTER AND KYLIE AND KENDALL JENNER AS LIZZIE MCGUIRE

@kyliejenner

♬ Mean Girls Halloween

The fact that The Lizzie McGuire Movie continues to be referenced more than two decades after its release, we know that’s right. Today’s it-girls are still looking at one of the OG it-girls and her many iconic looks (with one waiting six years to get the costume). 

Continue Reading: Scary Good Horror Movies From 2024 That You Need To Cross Off Your Watchlist, Stat

Balota has our vote.

Related: Here’s Why Marian Rivera’s New Movie, Balota, Is More Important Than You Think

As is to be expected with Cinemalaya, Cinemalaya 2024 was packed with acclaimed and hard-hitting films that spoke to the many struggles and hopes of the Filipino people. And one of the most talked-about from this year’s festival was Kip Oebanda’s Balota. The story of a teacher named Emmy fighting for her life as she protects the last ballot box in a tight and violent mayoral election in the province was a crowd favorite, ultimately winning lead actress Marian Rivera a Best Actress award. 

Now that the movie is finally playing in cinemas nationwide (and potentially debuting in streaming services down the line), the movie comes at an appropriate time when we’re once again heading to the polls soon for the 2025 elections. And from its poignant themes and messages, production, acting, and more, Balota has our vote. Here’s why.  

MARIAN RIVERA… THAT’S IT  

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Marian Rivera eating a role is not out of the ordinary. But she delivers a career highlight in Balota. One of her best performances to date sees the actress get down and grity as Emmy, a teacher who goes to hell and back to protect her assigned ballot box and her values. She gives Emmy this confidence and competence but also a vulnerability as she tries to make sense of her situation. Marian did what needed to be done, and her portrayal of Emmy is a roller coaster of human sacrifice and conviction. 

IT’S A STRAIGHT-UP GOOD MOVIE

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Kip Oebanda has built a reputation for seamlessly combining competent storytelling with relevant themes and messages. And that continues with Balota. Oebanda’s direction keeps things brisk and engaging as we go deeper and deeper into Emmy’s plight. The tension and emotions will be felt here. Add to that an overall strong cast composed of seasoned veterans and rising Gen Z actors, Balota hits the marks as a solid indie drama thriller.  

ESNYR AND SASSA GURL DELIVER

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Given the stacked cast Balota features, it’s a testament to their talent how Sassa Gurl and Esnyr stand out as one of the best parts of the movie. The two play small but memorable roles as two Gen Z protesting the injustices in their town that still retain their charisma, wit, and humor. They shine in every scene they are in and have us convinced that they need to be in another movie together, and not as supporting characters, but as leading roles. 

IT HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF TEACHERS (ESPECIALLY DURING ELECTIONS)

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It needs to be said the key role teachers play in our lives, both during elections when many of them put their lives in danger and in general. And that’s a theme Balota never fails to forget. Aside from showing Emmy’s bravery in the face of death and calling for an end to the threats teachers like her face during elections, the movie also showcases Emmy as a trusted and respected figure in her community who isn’t afraid to call right from wrong. Emmy’s actions have a ripple effect on many in her town, and it speaks to the kind of good that happens when we let teachers do their thing and give them the support they need and deserve.   

ITS LESSONS RESONATE WITH ELECTIONS IN THE COUNTRY

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Balota is more than just a thriller, it’s a movie that has bite and isn’t afraid to put its convictions front and center. The film has something to say with many of its lessons applicable to today’s world. From the power of speaking up against injustice, the pitfalls of idolizing politicians, reminding us that all politicians have flaws and more, Balota goes there, and we love that for them. 

While the movie does point to the seemingly never-ending cycle of every election being the same, it also leaves its viewers with a sense of hope that things can get better, so long as politicians have their service focused on the people, and we use our voice and vote to elect the right leaders. There are a lot of lessons to take from this with the 2025 elections around the corner. 

Balota is still screening in cinemas nationwide. Students and teachers can also avail of a discount and get their tickets for only 150 pesos. 

Continue Reading: Vote Wisely: 5 Tips For First-Time Voters For The 2025 Elections 

Our tech and trinkets favorites list this October is a win for the anik-anik girlies (or anyone who’s itching for some retail therapy).

Related: NYLON Manila Picks: The Game, Tech, and Trinket Finds That Took Up 99% Of Our Time This September 2024

There’s never a bad time to budol, and ’round here, we know that very well. Tech, trinkets, streaming services, apps, blind boxes, anik-aniks—whatever you can imagine, we’ve got it right here. The serotonin boost we get from having little treats and trinkets is totally worth it, and we find joy in our days in the form of tiny figurines, platforms that give us the best entertainment, and budol-worthy trinkets we keep on-hand every day. Want to treat yourself, too? Check out our October 2024 list of favorites below!

Spotify Jam  – Maggie Batacan, Editor-in-Chief

Recently used this feature of Spotify to connect with family members who are overseas. It can be really hard to schedule time to actively hang out with relatives who live in different timezones, especially because we all have adult responsibilities now. But feeling like we’re connected to each other by at least listening to the same music at the same time was nice. Plus, we got to critique each other’s tastes and introduce each other to new music. I bopped and cried while cleaning my apartment, and it felt less lonely.

Wow Presents Plus  – Raf Bautista, Managing Editor

As a fan of Drag Race since 2016, Wow Presents Plus has been a constant in my streaming service subscriptions with how it conveniently has all the Drag Race content I need. I no longer have to search far and wide whenever a new season drops. 

Keeplay Sanrio Set  – Bianca Lao, Brand Associate

If you’re looking for a twist to your regular blind boxes at Pop Mart and want to channel your inner arts and crafts talents, I highly suggest you get the Keeplay Sets. You can find these in your nearby Miniso, Ollie&Co, and even Shopee or Lazada! I recently picked up two versions of the Keeplay Sanrio Sets (in the hopes of getting Pochacco) and enjoyed my time piecing it together. It’s a cute activity and a great brain break in case you need it. Run, don’t walk!

Milanese Loop Straps for the Apple Watch – Nica Glorioso, Features Writer

As someone who does not use her Apple Watch for anything even remotely related to fitness (except maybe counting steps), I love using the Milanese Loop strap leagues more than the regular silicone ones. It’s not as bulky, lightweight and comfortable, fully adjustable, far dressier, and just a lot sleeker.

HACIPUPU The Constellation Series Figures – Precy Tan, Copywriter

This month’s pick is my latest Pop Mart blind box score—HACIPUPU’s The Constellation Series Figures! I was super hoping for the Pisces figure, but when I unboxed and got Aquarius instead, I was honestly chill with it—there’s no bad choice in this series because all of them are seriously adorable!

Mofusand Cute Blind Bag Series 2 – Gelo Quijencio, Multimedia Artist

The Mofusand Cute Blind Bag Series 2 is absolutely irresistible! The excitement of discovering which adorable kitty figure you’ll get, paired with their expressive, playful designs, makes collecting them so much fun. Plus, each figure has such unique details that make them hard to resist.

Mikko Illustrations Sweet Dreams Series  – Kristiel Andrade, Marketing Intern 

I just saw this online, my niece and I were watching a girl unbox a Sweet Dreams blind box. My niece liked it a lot just from watching that video, so I bought one for her. It was so nice in person I did not expect it and the quality was good! It’s also not overrated like other anik-anik and definitely cheaper!

Mini Food Erasers  – Patty Agregado, Multimedia Art Intern

A part of the grade school kid in you will heal, as soon as you get one of these. A child-like miniature that could serve both functionality and display. Honestly, the Korean ramen noodles set is the best one.

Continue Reading: NYLON Manila Picks: The Apps, Trinkets, And Tech We Loved This July 2024

The groundbreaking K-drama isn’t just a good BL series, it’s a good show in general.

Related: 9 K-Dramas With Considered Depictions Of Mental Health That You Can Stream Right Now

Every now and then, we get a K-drama or two that goes viral and becomes the show of the moment on social media. That in itself is expected given how popular K-dramas are. But when a show does that while also breaking boundaries in terms of storytelling and representation in K-dramas, you have our attention. Such is the case with Korean BL series Love in the Big City. 

Since the eight-episode series was released on South Korean subscription video-on-demand service TVING and Viki last October 21, Love in the Big City has got social media talking for all the right reasons and made the homophobes mad in the process. You’ve probably come across a couple of viral tweets talking about certain scenes. But aside from the steamy moments, the show has been living up to the hype in more ways than one. Get to know more about the groundbreaking K-drama below. 

THE LOVE… IT’S IN THE BIG CITY

Love in the Big City centers on Go Young, a gay Korean man who lives with Mi Ae, a straight woman and his best friend. Throughout the show’s run, we follow his 10-year journey of self-discovery and personal growth as he encounters family issues and different romantic partners. Among his adventures include his struggles with his relationship with his mother, who’s in denial about his sexual orientation, being forced to part ways with his lover Gyu Ho due to societal pressure, and an eye-opening trip to Thailand. The series is divided into four acts, each representing a chapter of his life, and each story arc consisting of two episodes.  

INSTAGRAM/NAM_YOONSU

Leading Love in the Big City is Nam Yoonsu, who plays Go Young. You may know Yoonsu from shows like The King’s Affection and Extracurricular. Jin Hoeun, who played a supporting role in All of Us Are Dead, plays Gyu Ho, one of Go Young’s most notable lovers in the show. 

Bookworms may be familiar with Love in the Big City as the K-drama is based on Park Sangyoung’s best-selling novel of the same name from 2019, which received an English translation by Anton Hur a couple of years later. The award-winning book tells the story of a young gay man who lives with HIV as he navigates life and love in Seoul alongside his female best friend, Jaehee. Also, this isn’t the only adaption of the novel as a movie of the same name starring Kim Goeun and Noh Sanghyun was released this year and premiered at TIFF 2024, which makes two screen adaptations of the book this year. 

DESPITE THE HOMOPHOBIC HATE, THE SHOW STAYS WINNING

LGBTQIA+ stories are still taboo in South Korea, and sadly, that meant the show faced backlash and homophobic complaints from conservative organizations in the country. It got to the point where the show’s trailer was initially taken down due to the harassment. But even then, the show’s creators, cast, and crew came out in support of the adaptation and implored fans to support the project. Given Love in the Big City’s popularity and critical acclaim since its release, the show, and queer stories in general, stayed winning.

INSTAGRAM/JINHOEUN_

Love in the Big City isn’t just a good BL series, it’s a good series period, and may be one of the best K-dramas of the year. The show takes strides for proper representation that goes beyond stereotypes and cliches of LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, and stories. Aside from a technically competent series with moving performances from its lead roles, what you get is a deep, complex, and compelling tale of a gay man navigating love, desire, and growing up. It makes for a story that’s equal parts personal and relatable. 

You can stream all eight episodes of Love in the Big City here.  

Continue Reading: NYLON Manila Picks: Our Favorite Media Of October 2024 That Lives Rent-Free In Our Minds