Wednesday 4 February 2015

Xian Lim and Other "Paddington" Stars to Grace Celebrity Screening at Robinson's Magnolia on February 5


On Friday night, Kapamilya actor Xian Lim, the voice behind the famous Peruvian bear called "Paddington" and other celebrities involved in the  movie are expected to grace the Philippine premiere of the blockbuster movie based from the beloved novels by Michael Bond at the Robinson's Magnolia in Quezon City.

"Paddington" follows the comic misadventures of a young Peruvian bear with a passion for all things British, who travels to London in search of a home. Finding himself lost and alone at Paddington Station, he begins to realize that city life is not all he had imagined - until he meets the kindly Brown family, who read the label around his neck ('Please look after this bear. Thank you.') and offer him a temporary haven. It looks as though his luck has changed until this rarest of bears catches the eye of a museum taxidermist...

The cast of "Paddington" reads as a roll-call of the finest in acting talent, spanning film, television and theatre. Each of the principal cast are recognisable as many an iconic character, to generations both young and old.

Hugh Bonneville (Mr. Brown) is perhaps best known as Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham, in the multi-award winning TV drama, “Downton Abbey”. Taking on the role of a father once again in "Paddington" appealed to Bonneville on several levels. “I remember having the books read to me and then reading them myself and falling in love with them. Paddington is a part of British culture, part of our DNA really. I read the script and saw how much of that DNA is preserved, even though it’s set in a contemporary world”. He continues, “It still has the flavour of the original books, which is so beautifully captured in Paul’s script. There’s also a great deal of humour running though the story - innocent, uproarious slapstick as well as clever wit – which will resonate with everyone, whether you are coming to the story with fresh eyes or as an unashamedly nostalgic parent, like myself.

As one of the first actors to come on board the project and highly aware of the public's love of the source material, Hugh felt very strongly the need to do justice to Bond's stories - but any initial concerns were very quickly forgotten: “Within about five seconds of meeting Paul and David about Paddington, I was on board. I was struck by how much Paul understood Paddington - he IS Paddington! He is as innocent, wide-eyed and as delightful as our furry friend!

As Mrs. Brown, the wonderful Sally Hawkins, who was recently nominated for an Academy Award® for her role in Woody Allen’s Blue Jasmine, effortlessly captures her character’s good nature and inability to resist a cry for help. Being the first to engage with the little bear all alone on the platform of Paddington Station, Mrs Brown’s family is swept along by her well-meaning actions, regardless of the consequences.

Says Rosie Alison of the casting of Sally, “What we love about Sally is that she gives this very grounded performance. She talks to the bear just beautifully, as if he is a living, breathing creature. One believes in her and in turn, in Paddington.

Says Paul, “Hugh and Sally were a joy to work with. They are both tremendously accomplished writers as well as performers. For someone like me with a background in improvised comedy, it was hugely reassuring to know they wouldn’t feel straight-jacketed by the dialogue, and that together we could breathe life into the characters.”

He continues, “Their performances are the bedrock of the film: comic but touching, real yet existing in a world where a talking animal can be accepted. It’s a delicate balance, and they hold it beautifully.”

It’s perhaps every child’s dream to appear in a movie and newcomers Madeleine Harris and Samuel Joslin, cast as sparring siblings Judy and Jonathan Brown, took the experience in their stride. Through a long winter shoot in and around London, often on location and frequently filming through the night, Maddie and Sam more than matched the stamina of their seasoned co-stars. The strong connection that developed quickly between the fictional family members is evident on screen, as is the fun they clearly had working together.

Bonneville is quick to praise his young co-stars “Maddie and Sam have got fantastic energy and real focus - they’re really on the button.” And he continues, “There is that famous phrase, ‘Never work with children or animals’. Well, I can make an exception in this case.

With regards to portraying one of the most famous families in British literary history, Bonneville adds, “We had the luxury of three weeks of rehearsal in which Paul was determined that we should not only finesse the script but work on the characters and explore the relationships of the Brown family - which was invaluable. You rarely get to have that. So we had a lot of fun, playing around with the scenes, building up a strong family dynamic, which I hope comes across. The little ebbs and flows of family life are all there.”

Rounding out the Brown household is the eccentric Mrs. Bird, played by Julie Walters. A distant relative who lives with the Browns and runs the household as a very tight ship, Mrs Bird is strict, but also compassionate - when she needs to be! Worldly-wise, she thinks nothing of a walking, talking bear crossing the threshold of 32 Windsor Garden and turning all of their lives upside down.

Julie confesses to loving the prospect of working on another film which appeals whole-heartedly to the young - and to the young at heart. Certainly, knowing that David Heyman would once again be behind this adaptation must have been reassuring for Julie? “It was lovely to be asked back by David Heyman, because I had such a wonderful time on Harry Potter, you know, so it’s a real thrill to work with him again - and he’s a really nice bloke, apart from anything else!

Along with Mr. Gruber, played by the prolific British actor Jim Broadbent (another Harry Potter alumnus) and nosey next door neighbour, Mr. Curry (Peter Capaldi), the Browns are characters as familiar as Paddington himself to the generations of children that have grown up with these stories. However, a 21st century Paddington required a villain that could challenge the most savvy of young audiences. Enter stage left Millicent, the evil taxidermist.

Explains King, "Where Oliver Twist has to survive Fagin and Bill Sykes before he can find peace with Mr Brownlow, so I wanted an opposition for Paddington, someone who didn’t respond to ‘Please Look After This Bear.’ It struck me that for a young bear, the greatest opposition wasn’t someone who didn’t want him in the house, or even the street, but who felt that a bear only belonged in one place in London – the Natural History Museum!

From the outset, the desire of all involved was to deliver a Paddington to the big screen for a whole new generation of fans, whilst remaining loyal to Bond's wonderful world.

Showing nationwide on February 11, “Paddington” is released and distributed by CAPTIVE CINEMA.


By JED || Full Story @ Showbiznest

Disney "Frozen" Short Movie Out in Theaters on March 13


Disney revealed on Tuesday the upcoming "Frozen" short movie. Reprising their roles are Idina Menzel (Elsa) trying to throw a big, birthday bash for Anna (Kristen Bell). However, it turns out the cold can bother Elsa, and the way she experiences the symptoms is different than everybody else.

Olfa (Josh Gad), Kristoff (Jonathan Groff), and Sven will also be coming back for the festivities as they’ve become part of this unusual family.




The follow-up to the billion-dollar hit that will last only seven minutes also features a new song from Fil-Am Oscar winning husband-and-wife tandem of Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez.



"Frozen" is scheduled to hit theaters before Disney's live-action Cinderella, out March 13.


By JED || Full Story @ Showbiznest

Nikki Gil to Get Married This Year, Too


Images courtesy of Instagram: nikkigil

Uh oh, the marrying bandwagon is just unstoppable. Every celebrity couple out there seems to have been hit by the wedding fever! 

After tv host Toni Gonzaga and Paul Soriano proclaimed their engagement and forthcoming wedding this year, Toni's close friend, tv host and actress Nikki Gil is confirmed to be walking down the aisle anytime soon, too!

Nikki's boyfriend is BJ Albert, a young entrepreneur and a Psychology graduate from the Ateneo de Manila University. The couple have reportedly been dating exclusively, a year after Nikki admitted the break-up of her 5-year relationship with perfomer and tv host Billy Crawford. Their very controversial break-up where Nikki got the public sympathy, hit the headlines for weeks and became the favorite topic of people in and out of showbiz.

Nikki's fans as well as her friends cheered for her when she finally found her Mr. Right in Mr. Albert.  There will be louder cheers this time when she gets to wear that engagement ring soon! Congratulations, Nikki and BJ!

By Fashion PULIS

GOT7 Jackson is required to wear a leg cast for a week after ISAC injury

After acquiring a minor ankle injury from the recording of ‘Idol Sports Athletic Championship’ on February 2, Jackson seems to have not yet fully recovered.

JYP Entertainment gives an update about Jackson’s condition after his latest visit to the hospital. “After the diagnosis from the hospital, Jackson is advised to wear a cast for a week for the treatment.” The agency adds, “If there are changes in the schedule, we will inform you right away.”

“We are sorry to deliver this unfortunate news. We will do our best for Jackson’s recovery.”

We hope for your speedy recovery Jackson!


By JustKpop

Line up for ‘Match Made in Heaven Returns’ revealed, Leeteuk & Lee Hwi Jae as MCs

MBC is preparing to broadcast a revamped version of their 2002 ‘Match Made in Heaven’ with a whole new set of cast and MCs.

The matchmaking program will be hosted by Lee Hwi Jae and Super Junior Leeteuk. Confirmed male casts are Henry, SHINee’s Taemin, Cross Gene’s Takuya, Moon Hee Jun, and actor Lee Hyun Woo.

On the other hand, the female line up is consists of SECRET’s Hyosung, EXID’s Junghwa, Brown Eyed Girls’ Narsha, and Fujii Mina. According to reports, there are still few cast to join.

The show pairs up members and each couple would take on various challenges and games. It will premiere on February 24.


By JustKpop

Niel gazes in new teaser image for ‘oNIELy’

Teen Top Niels excludes powerful charisma in his latest teaser image for upcoming solo debut album ‘oNIELy’.

Behind his smokey make up is a dazzling gaze that captivates fans. Meanwhile, Niel is going to release ‘oNIELy’ on February 16.

Are you excited?


By JustKpop

Taiwan Plane Crash 2015: #TransAsia Flight GE235 crashing into river caught on video!

Taiwan Plane Crash 2015 February 4: The TransAsia Flight GE235 has
crashed into a river in Taipei, Taiwan today and it was caught on
video
It's already the 2nd Taiwan Plane Crash involving TransAsia Airways
within 7 months
I saw the video of the latest Taiwan Plane Crash in the Youtube upload
by Eduardo Woo entitled "Dashcam footage captures Taiwan plane crash"
and it's kinda horrible watching it knowing the plane had over 50
passengers. The video which was captured by a driver nearby was also
shown in the newscast by CNN International.
As of this posting, 19 passengers have been confirmed to be dead.


By Myk @ MyKiRu IsYuSeRo

Boom’s father passes a away from a car accident

It was revealed that Boom’s father has passed aways after getting involved in a car accident on February 3rd.

Boom’s agency, Koenstarz said on the same day,”The sudden accident has caused a great shock and sadness to Boom and his whole family”.

According to various sources, Boom’s father was driving in Chunngju, Chungbuk when he was caught in a car accident. There were no conflicts with other vehicles to be found and he was said to have passed away at the scene.

The deceased’s funeral was arranged at St.Mary’s Hospital in Yeouido, Seoul. The funeral cortege ceremony was revealed to take place on February 5th.

We offer our deepest condolences to Boom and his family.


By JustKpop

Christian Bautista joins Matt Monro, Jr. and The Platters in Only You: The Best Valentine Gift concert

Christian Bautista joins Matt Monro, Jr. and The Platters in Only You: The Best Valentine Gift concert

Valentine’s Day happens once a year, but every year, you’re faced with the same problem: what do you get your significant other, or someone special in your life, like your parents or your beloved lolo and lola who deserve a treat for being there for you all year round?

When all else fails, give the gift of music. This year, two of the biggest acts in the international music scene are coming to town in Only You: An Evening of Romantic Hits on Feb. 14 (Saturday, 8:00 p.m.) at PICC Plenary Hall and on Feb. 16 (Monday, 8:00 p.m.) at Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila.

It’s a concert that will bring back all of their musical favorites, performed by a group formed by the original owner of the original Platters. The Platters popularized hits like “Only You”, “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”, “The Great Pretender”, “Twilight Time”, and “My Prayer”.

Joining them will be Matt Monro, Jr., son of the legendary balladeer who will perform songs of his father, like “Portrait of My Love”, “Walk Away”, “Softly As I Leave You”, “Love Is A Many Splendored Thing”, “Born Free” and “From Russia With Love”. A special highlight of the Manila concert will be a father-and-son video duet made possible by the magic of digital technology.

As an added treat, the fun triples with Asian singing sensation Christian Bautista as he dishes out his hit songs plus well-known love songs.

You could even join them and make it a family Valentine treat. Tickets to “Only You: An Evening of Romantic Hits” are available at Ticketworld at 891-9999. The show is produced by Royal Chimes Concerts & Events.


By Pinoy Showbiz Daily

4Minute and Infinite H’ songs deemed inappropriate for broadcast by KBS

4Minute and Infinite H’ songs have been banned from broadcast on KBS.

According to KBS’s song review on February 4th, 4Minute’s ‘Just Do The First Verse’ and Infinite H’s ‘As Long As You’re Not Crazy’ (feat Sanchez of Phantom) have been deemed inappropriate for broadcast due to their slang and vulgar expression.

Regarding this matter, Cube Entertainment said that they have no plans to modify the lyrics. But since ‘Just Do The First Verse’ is a sub-song, we will change the lyrics for the stages on broadcast”.

Woollim Entertainment also stated that they will not change the lyrics of the song for the time being.


By JustKpop

'Liwanag Sa Dilim' Director Richard Somes Reveal The Real Score About The Reported Break Up Of Jake Vargas & Bea Binene

DIRECTOR RICHARD SOMES started as a production designer in the films of his kababayans from Negros, Peque Gallaga and Erik Matti, then branched out into directing in the “Aswang” episode of “Shake, Rattle & Roll 2k5“ starring Mark Anthony Fernandez, which got very good reviews. He went on to win a best director award for the Cinema One entry, “Yanggaw”, filmed in his native Ilonggo. He now also directs regularly for ABS TV soaps, like “Maria del Barrio”, “Imortal” and the latest is “Bridges”.

The 38-year old director is noted for his horror films that started in “Yanggaw” and continued with “Corazon”. He now directs “Liwanag sa Dilim” for APT Entertainment and he says it’s the last movie in a trilogy of horror flicks that he has in mind. It opens in theatres on February 11 as a Valentine presentation, with premiere night on February 8.

“This is actually a coming of age story kaya bagay yung ‘Liwanag sa Dilim’ song ni Rico Blanco which is about how to be more responsible and evolve as a teenager. My co-writer, Dwight Gaston, and I wanted to make a movie na parang ‘Stand By Me’, which is coming of age between good friends. My stars, Jake Vargas, Bea Binene and Igiboy Flores, are all perfect in their respective roles as teenagers who undergo a terrifying experience and they all deliver good performances, also Sarah Lahbati as the woman of mystery they encounter in the mountains.”


By Mario Bautista: Showbiz Portal

Crazy Beautiful You movie poster: KathNiel in their most romantic pose ever!

'Crazy Beautiful You' movie poster has been released late last night, 3 weeks before its grand opening in theaters on February 25, 2015.

The movie poster shows the lead stars as couple in
love in a very romantic gesture: Daniel Padilla lifting Kathryn Bernardo as they rub noses, giving each other a look (perhaps ready to kiss) - girl lookin' at guy's eyes as she holds his neck, while the guy is lookin' at her lips (wanting to kiss her?).

Crazy Beautiful You movie poster

'Crazy Beautiful You' poster alone is bringing so much "kilig" already. I can feel your excitement now KathNiel fans!

Comparing that one to their previous films' posters, it's the sweetest and most romantic! A more mature portrayal by Daniel and Kathryn is probably something that we should expect from them in the movie.

Joining them in the film are Lorna Tolentino, Gabby Concepcion and Piolo Pascual's son Iñigo, who's sharing same billing with Ms. LT and Gabby in the poster. It's directed by Mae Cruz-Alviar, the lady behind
last year's mega-blockbuster hit 'Bride For Rent', which starred Kim Chiu and Xian Lim.

'Crazy Beautiful You' marks as the film debut of Pinoy Big Brother ex-housemate Loisa Andalio, and of John Estrada and Janice De Belen's daughter Inah Estrada. Also part of this Star Cinema movie are Dante Ponce, Kakai Bautista, Bryan Santos, Hyubs Azarcon, Kiray Celis, Neil Coleta, Thou Reyes, Menggie Cobarrubias, Cheska Iñigo, JM Ibañez, Chienna Filomeno and Andrea Brillantes. - Mykiru.ph


By Myk @ MyKiRu IsYuSeRo

Berry Good release MV teaser for ‘Because of You’

Berry Good give fans a peek to their upcoming MV for ‘Because of You’.

New members Seoyool, Dahye, and Sehyung join Taeha and Kowoon for this month’s comeback. The clip shows the girls with a very enchanting sweet vocals in the background.

Meanwhile, their 2nd digital single ‘Because of You’ will be released on 9th.


By JustKpop

Kyla moves out of GMA7; Will she become a kapamilya?

Kyla moves out of GMA7; Will she become a kapamilya?

R&B artist Kyla has officially moved out of GMA 7. The decision came after she decided to change the talent agency to handle her singing career.

The singer is now part of Cornerstone Talent Agency which handles Sam Milby, Erik Santos, Angeline Quinto, Yeng Constantino,  and Rachelle Ann Go.

The singer's program contract for Sunday All Stars ended last December but only bid farewell last Sunday. She has also told the network executives about her decision.

 Prior to this, Kyla was often seen on ABS-CBN's morning show Kris TV doing some guestings while promoting her new album.

Now busy with corporate gigs, Kyla is expected by many to become part of ABS-CBN Sunday show ASAP, a rival of her former show from GMA. Will she? Abangan...
By Pinoy Showbiz Daily

Luis Manzano's KDOND Replaces Judy Ann Santos's "Bet On Your Baby" Beginning February 9


“Bet on Your Baby,” the cutest game show in the country that became a phenomenal hit, hitting an all-time high in TV viewership nationwide, is ready to say goodbye for now with a bang and tons of fun for its last week on ABS-CBN starting this February 2 (Monday).

The top-rating show, hosted by Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo, has changed a lot of lives and has been an inspiring show for Filipino families for almost two years. Because of its grand prizes, exciting games, and the moving stories of the contestants, “Bet on Your Baby” has been a well-loved show in the Kapamilya network.

Set originally as a weekly program for 13 weeks, “Bet on Your Baby” was extended countless times until it became a daily show because of its high ratings that led to more families getting the chance to have their “Bet on Your Baby” experience and giving more prizes to families who qualify in the thrilling “Basagin ang Baboy” segment.

For its last week starting this Monday (February 2), the show will feature families of overseas Filipino workers. Even “Bet on Your Baby’s” host Judy Ann shares that having an OFW parent is no piece of cake. It can be recalled that Judy Ann’s mother was once an OFW in Canada.

Will the finale week of “Bet on Your Baby” end with a family going home with Php1 million or a brand new house and lot?

 


Meanwhile, an all-new “Kapamilya Deal or No Deal” is set to premiere on Monday, February 9.

Luis Manzano returns with an diverse mix of popular personalities that will not only hold the briefcases that can change their lives but will also give them a chance to make a deal of a lifetime. Joining Luis in his wacky antics and banters are 20 Lucky Star members composed of a teen heartthrob, beauty queen, comedian, character actor, sexy actress, and many more.

Winning the P1 million jackpot has never been this fun. Before the game starts, a roulette will determine who among the Lucky Stars will be the player for the day. The chosen player may opt to keep his or her briefcase or trade it with another Lucky Star. The bargaining begins and the player opens the briefcases in hopes of getting a big offer from the Banker.

This is the first time in all ‘Deal’ franchises around the world that the briefcase models will be replaced by popular personalities who will also serve as studio players.

Don’t miss the premiere of an all-new “Kapamilya Deal or No Deal” beginning Monday (February 9) on ABS-CBN.


By JED || Full Story @ Showbiznest

Young Pinay Singer and X-Factor Australia Grand Winner Marlisa Punzalan to Stage Free Concert in Manila


Megaworld Lifestyle Malls invites all music fans to witness an exciting Valentine musical event featuring another world-class Filipino talent and X-Factor Australia Grand Winner Marlisa Punzalan.

The Filipino-Australian singing sensation, who was hailed recently as the grand winner of X-Factor Australia last 2014, will be performing live for the first time in the country, in a series of shows that music fans can watch exclusively at Megaworld Lifestyle Malls.

The 15-year-old singing champion will be performing live on February 13, 2PM at Lucky Chinatown in Binondo, and later on the same day at 7PM at the Eastwood Mall Open Pak in Eastwood City. Marlisa returns to stage on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 7PM at the Venice Piazza at McKinley Hill.

Fans of Marlisa Punzalan can buy a copy of the singer’s self-titled debut album at the venue to get free admission to the shows. Those who will buy the record will also get a chance to meet the up and coming recording artist up-close and have their CDs signed during the album signing session happening after the show.

Born to Filipino parents from Bataan province who migrated to Australia, Marlisa, the youngest contestant to win the coveted singing competition, started singing at the age of three. Before her breakthrough run at the sixth edition of X-Factor Australia, she was a student at a Catholic school and a regular performer at charity events and singing competitions. Marlisa first performed in 2003 at the Australian Academy of Music and Performing Arts and had her first solo concert in 2011 and first TV appearance at the Norman Mitchell Comedy show in 2012.

In 2013, the then 14-year-old teen made her first audition for X-Factor Australia, where she wowed the judges including LMFAO’s Redfoo, Natalie Bassingthwaighte, Dannii Minogue and Ronan Keating with her rendition of The Beatles classic, ‘Yesterday’.

With the help of her mentor, Ronan Keating, Marlisa went on to deliver some of the greatest performances in the competition’s sixth season, with three of her performances reaching the top 40 on the iTunes chart. Her stellar performances earned her a spot in the competition’s finale, where she bested fellow finalists Dean Ray and Brothers3.

“My X-Factor journey has been incredible because of the beautiful people around me,” said Marlisa about her win, while crediting her mentor and her supporters for her success.

Last November 2014, Sony Music Entertainment Australia announced the launch of Marlisa’s self-titled debut album. The 11-track record will feature re-recorded studio tracks of some of her most memorable performances in the show including ‘Nothing Else Matters’, ‘Titanium’, ‘Girl on Fire’ and her winning song ‘Stand by You’.

Other songs to look forward to in Marlisa’s debut album include renditions of ‘All by Myself’, ‘Hopelessly Devoted to You’, ‘Let It Go’,’Try’, ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ and ‘Impossible’.

For more information on Marlisa Punzalan Live at Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, please call the Concierge at 709-9888, 709-0888, 0917-8380111 or visit www.megaworldlifestylemalls.com.


By JED || Full Story @ Showbiznest

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