'Area' review: Hope in misery

November 11, 2016, 7:06 am

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'AREA.' Ai Ai delas Alas stars in Louie Ignacio's 'Area.' Screengrab from YouTube/
Film Police Reviews

Louie Ignacio’s Area revels in the unflinching squalor that the film’s eponymous setting represents. It often dwells too long in misery, almost to the point of making its bleak imagery insignificant and pointless.

All warts, no virtues

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Area opens with a montage of snippets from the Angeles City neighborhood, which has become famous for being the home of several low-rent brothels. These brothels service those who can’t afford the pleasures from the city’s more upscale red light district. It’s a chaotic sequence, one that borders exploitation in the way it depicts the community with all of its warts and almost nothing of its virtues.

The plot only picks up when the film finally withdraws from its attempt to immerse its viewers into the deplorable world it wants to explore by following Ben (Allen Dizon), who traverses the narrow alleyways of the neighborhood to end up in his home to eat dinner with his family. The scene is tender, laced with conversations that blend self-deprecating humor with the apparent poverty they have come to accept.

Screengrab from YouTube/Film Police Reviews

After their dinner, the leftovers are then brought to another compound where women of different shapes and ages are patiently waiting. They are rowdier, with expletives often exploding out of their mouths. They are prostitutes, women kept by Ben and his family, who have run the brothel since before Area wasn’t synonymous with cheaper-than-cheap sexual favors from aging women desperate for clients.

Kind-hearted Hillary (Ai Ai delas Alas), one of Ben’s prostitutes, has been saving all her earnings to buy a plane ticket to America, where she will finally be reunited with her son. Her jaded colleagues don't buy her story. There could simply be no room for hope in their abjectly hopeless place.

Insists on realism

Screengrab from YouTube/Film Police Reviews

Ignacio meticulously establishes the pecking order of his chosen milieu.

He acknowledges the absurdity of his film’s world, but insists on realism. He uses the same methods that filmmakers like Brillante Mendoza and Eduardo Roy, Jr. have used to give their films a documentary-like feel.

Unfortunately, the film tends to be too obvious in its intentions. It foregoes subtlety, making some of its attempts to sustain realism within a parable fumble.

There are long stretches in the film where Ignacio indulges in this rickety mix of documentary footage and overt fiction. For instance, when Ben and his family members flagellate themselves alongside real penitents in an effort to enunciate the folly of religious rituals in the midst of sin and godlessness. Another instance is when Hillary morosely falls in line to receive her blessings from the statue of Christ.

Screengrab from YouTube/Film Police Reviews

They don’t always work.

Perhaps it is because there is a clear disconnect between truth and fiction. Allen and De Las Alas stories, which are told in a dramatic fashion and are starkly distinct from their staged interactions with real life, do not really cohere well with the film’s stubborn attempt at realism.

Rewarding end

Screengrab from Film Police Reviews

However, there is merit to all the film’s intentions, no matter how unsubtly and clumsily presented.

The film evidently avoids judgment, with Ignacio and screenwriter Robby Tantingco carefully painting its characters as acceptably flawed human beings no matter how dehumanizing their jobs are. In all its efforts to display a damning world that seems bereft of salvation, the film was still able to keep its characters defined, not by their pathetic lots in life, but their pronounced humanity. The film depicts them as sons to ailing mothers, mothers to missing sons, and friends with imperfect friendships.

Area rewards right in the end. It surrenders its grip on a spectacle of harsh reality to showcase an affecting portrait of humanity being rewarded for its undaunted embrace of faith and hope – very human virtues that are most apparent in a setting characterized by vice. – Rappler.com

Francis Joseph Cruz litigates for a living and writes about cinema for fun. The first Filipino movie he saw in the theaters was Carlo J. Caparas’ 'Tirad Pass.' Since then, he’s been on a mission to find better memories with Philippine cinema.

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Leonard Cohen buried in Montreal – media

November 11, 2016, 6:46 pm

≫ Next: 'Man from U.N.C.L.E' star Robert Vaughn dies aged 83

≪ Previous: 'Area' review: Hope in misery

LEONARD COHEN. The singer and poet is buried 3 days after his death. This file photo taken on January 16, 2012 Cohen taking off his hat to salute in Paris. Photo by Joel Saget/AFP Photo

MONTREAL, Canada – Leonard Cohen, who died Monday in Los Angeles, was buried three days later in Montreal alongside his family, local media reported on Friday citing the Jewish congregation Shaar Hashomayim. (READ: Canadian singer, songwriter, poet Leonard Cohen dies at 82 – publicist)

"Hineni, hineni, My Lord" (here I am Lord in Hebrew) and other lyrics to the song "You want it Darker" from his latest album released in September were spoken in lieu of a prayer for the poet and musician during a traditional Jewish memorial service.

He was later buried at Jewish Shaar Hashomayim cemetary on the slopes of Mount Royal in his hometown of Montreal, "beside his parents, grandparents and great-grandparents," in accordance with his wishes, rabbi Adam Scheier was quoted as saying by La Presse.

The statement went on to note that Cohen had maintained "a lifelong spiritual, musical, and familial connection to the synagogue of his youth."

The announcement of his death was made after his burial, which was reportedly attended by his close friends and family. – Rappler.com

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'Man from U.N.C.L.E' star Robert Vaughn dies aged 83

November 11, 2016, 7:06 pm

≫ Next: Sarah Geronimo wins Classic Rock Award 2016

≪ Previous: Leonard Cohen buried in Montreal – media

ROBERT VAUGHN. Actor Robert Vaughn dies on November 11, 2016 at 83 years old. File photo shows him posing at the 2007 World Magic Awards held at the Barker Hanger on October 13, 2007 in Santa Monica, California. Photo by Mark Davis/Getty Images

LOS ANGELES, USA – Robert Vaughn, best known for his role as Napoleon Solo on the hit US television spy series The Man from U.N.C.L.E died Friday, November 11 of acute leukemia aged 83, his manager said.

"Mr. Vaughn passed away (in New York) with his family around him," Matthew Sullivan told entertainment magazine Deadline Hollywood.

The actor is survived by his wife Linda, son Cassidy and daughter Caitlin.

Born in New York to show business parents, Vaughn first gained attention for his Oscar-nominated role in the 1959 movie The Young Philadelphians.

A year later, he starred as an on-the-run gunman in the popular Western movie The Magnificent Seven. The film was remade in 2016 by Antoine Fuqua.

But though the actor acquired a lengthy list of credits in movies, he gained real star power for his roles on television, notably as the suave and cool Napoleon Solo – the television version of James Bond – in The Man from U.N.C.L.E.

The series, which ran from 1964 to 1968, was one of the most popular shows of the 1960s and turned Vaughn into an international star.

After the series ended he returned to the big screen, starring in a number of movies, including opposite Steve McQueen in Bullitt, before returning to television.

More recently, he played a con man on the British series Hustle and appeared briefly in 2012 in the British soap opera Coronation Street. – Rappler.com

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Sarah Geronimo wins Classic Rock Award 2016

November 11, 2016, 7:28 pm

≫ Next: Rhian Ramos shares experience, important message on sexual harassment

≪ Previous: 'Man from U.N.C.L.E' star Robert Vaughn dies aged 83

SARAH GERONIMO. The pop star wins the Asian Performance award at the 2016 Classic Rock Awards in Tokyo. Screengrab from Instagram/bangbangstylecrew

MANILA, Philippines – Sarah Geronimo has another award under her belt!

The singer was awarded Asian Performance at the Classic Rock Awards 2016 on Friday, November 11.

Sarah also performed the song "Anak" at the awarding ceremony, which was held in Tokyo this year and was hosted by Megadeth's Dave Mustaine.

Check out some photos of Sarah on the red carpet, plus a clip of her performance below!

The Classic Rock Awards, also called the Classic Rock Roll of Honour, was started in 2005 by Classic Rock magazine and honors rock icons, musicians, and songwriters.

Aside from Sarah, Def Leppard and Jeff Beck were among the artists given awards on November 11, while Johnny Depp, Tesla, and Cheap Trick were among the many who performed.

Here is the full list of winners, according to the rock website Team Rock.

The Showmen: Cheap Trick
Best New Band: The Struts
Classic Songwriter: Richie Sambora
Band Of The Year: Jeff Lynne's ELO
Reissue Of The Year: Queen - The Studio Collection
Asian Performance: Slot Machine
Japan Next Generation: Band-Maid
Asian Performance: Sarah Geronimo
The V.I.P: Katsuya Kobayashi
Eastern Breakthrough Male Band: One Ok Rock
The Asian Icon: Yoshiki
Album Of The Year: Def Leppard– Def Leppard
The Icon: Jeff Beck

Sarah was recently nominated for Best Southeast Asian Act at the MTV European Music Awards. – Rappler.com

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Rhian Ramos shares experience, important message on sexual harassment

November 12, 2016, 8:33 am

≫ Next: Lea Salonga on fear and hope after Trump election win

≪ Previous: Sarah Geronimo wins Classic Rock Award 2016

RHIAN RAMOS. The actress writes about her experience with sexual harassment. Photo by Alecs Ongcal/Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – Rhian Ramos has broken her short social media silence with a lengthy Instagram post, recounting her recent experience with sexual harassment. The post in turn also shines a light on the issue of victim-blaming and encourages men and women to stand up against sexual and street harrassment.

The incident happened two nights before her November 12 post, she said, when she decided to go out with some friends.

"On the same night, some guy was out, partying a little too hard and goes up to me and squeezes my rear," wrote Rhian. "I always used to think of myself as a strong enough girl that if the day ever came that someone would do this to me, I'd fight back. Honestly, it's different when you're already in that situation. I was stunned and didn't know what to do. Naiyak lang ako (I just cried)."

When one of her friends tried to talk to the guy, he denied that he was the offender. After talking to another friend, the man came inside and apologized.

Rhian told him: "I said that if he decides to stay, stay far away from me.

"It didn't even make me feel any better. It was a 'sorry I got caught, not sorry I did that' kind of situation. Upon leaving, the same man squeezed me again and ran out. I was in tears."

The actress tried to chase after the man, but he had already left with his car.

In her post, Rhian wrote: "This wasn't something I was willing to let go. I couldn't understand why a man would feel the entitlement to touch a woman without her consent. To take something from her by force. I was in slacks and a loose top. At no point did I even make eye contact with this man. What did I do to ask for this?"

But Rhian said that how she was dressed should not have made a difference: "I realized that even if I had been scantily dressed, it is not the woman's fault that a guy would treat her that way. That moment, sir, says more about the kind of man that you are. I hated him even more for making me question myself."

Rhian's point about attire and consent shines a light on a common and dangerous response after a victim reports various types of harrassment and assault incidents – some women are themselves blamed for the incident because of what they were wearing.

Rhian said that she has since found out the man's name, business, and a few details about his life. He was anonymous in her post, she said, for the sake of his daughters.

She wrote, "He's back in Cebu now and I won't be speaking to him personally, but he can expect a message from me before the day ends."

Rhian finished her post with a message to anyone who might find themselves in the same situation:

"These things happen everywhere, all the time, and I want to speak to all of the people that this situation represents. To remind women not to question themselves. To remind guys to defend the honor of the girls they invite out... To remind fathers to think about what they would do if someone had touched their daughters. And to encourage men to read up on what is considered as sexual and street harassment. I hope street harassment will be penalized not only in [Quezon City], but in the rest of the Philippines as well."

Below is Rhian's post in full:

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– Rappler.com

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Lea Salonga on fear and hope after Trump election win

November 12, 2016, 6:20 pm

≫ Next: WATCH: David Blaine freaks out Jimmy Fallon, The Roots

≪ Previous: Rhian Ramos shares experience, important message on sexual harassment

NOT AFRAID. Lea Salonga says she will continue to do her mission to sing for US audience despite the remarks against immigrants and minorities. Photo by Alecs Ongcal/Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – Broadway superstar Lea Salonga penned a powerful and encouraging message on social media as Americans – and the world in general – come to terms with Donald Trump becoming President-elect of the United States. ('Do not weep:' Stars tweet after Donald Trump win)

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Trump shocked the world on Tuesday, November 8 when he defeated Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton in a closely-fought race for the White House.

His racist, misogynistic, and divisive remarks have been criticized throughout the campaign, and his win leaves many Americans, particularly immigrants and people of color, in fear that the impact of his rhetoric could enable or normalize racism and misogyny in America. There have already been reports of racist attacks following his win.

On her Facebook page, theFun Home star shared a Huffingon Post article by John Pavlovitz entitled "Here’s Why We Grieve Today." In the piece, Pavlovitz noted how many Americans across the country were feeling after Trump's win, saying that this was not only a political issue but a "defeat for humanity."

In her message, Lea wrote that while her husband and daughter have American passports, she's worried about racism anyway.

"My husband and daughter are also persons of color, never mind that they have US passports and speak perfect English," the star wrote.

She continue: "We both have family members that voted for Trump, something neither of us will fully understand. Because of what we are. Because of who we are.

"Because it's possible that my daughter will be harassed, just because she is Asian, and a girl," she wrote.

"In a racist America, all people will see is my skin, my race and my gender. And for that I am actually afraid. Afraid to step into a country that supposedly offered the promise that hard work will get you places.

"'Give me your tired, your poor,' says Lady Liberty. That once gave me hope. America doesn't look like that country anymore."

Still, she ended her message on a hopeful note, choosing not to sign off with a message of fear. Performing, she said, was her "way of finding peace" – and she would continue to do so.

Lea continued:

I will travel to wherever I have been invited, and I will sing.
God placed me on this earth to share my voice.
It is my way of finding peace.
It is my way of seeing the light.
It is what I was born to do.
And until my last breath, because it is as God commands,
I will sing. Even when afraid. Then hopefully, I will not be afraid anymore."

Lea is currently starring in Fun Home, currently running at the RCBC Theatre in Makati. – Rappler.com

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WATCH: David Blaine freaks out Jimmy Fallon, The Roots

November 12, 2016, 8:46 pm

≫ Next: ‘Ang Kwento Nating Dalawa’ Review: Restraint and sincerity

≪ Previous: Lea Salonga on fear and hope after Trump election win

Screengrab from YouTube/Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

MANILA, Philippines – David Blaine has impressed a whole lot of people with his illusions, endurance stunts, and tricks, including a long list of celebrities – remember when he shocked Kanye West with an ice pick trick? Now, fans can watch another video of him shocking host Jimmy Fallon and musicians from The Roots.

David stopped by The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon to promote his new ABC TV special David Blaine: Beyond Magic. David assures the nervous group (including a very jittery Jimmy Fallon) that he's just going to do "simple card tricks, nothing weird."

We get to see him freak out Jimmy by guessing exactly which card he had been thinking about, making a card appear in an exact position in the deck, and somehow adding to the cards Tariq Trotter (of The Roots) had in his inside pocket.

Things seem to be wrapping up until Jimmy asks David about crazy things he's done – and then David mentions a "human aquarium," about a man who could bring up creatures he had been keeping in his stomach.

Screengrab from YouTube/Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

David whips out a tall glass filled with water, and somehow, coughs up a real frog after a few seconds, shocking everyone. Watch the moment around the 10-minute mark in the video above.

Watch the video for more. – Rappler.com

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‘Ang Kwento Nating Dalawa’ Review: Restraint and sincerity

November 12, 2016, 10:31 pm

≫ Next: WATCH: Kate McKinnon's 'Hillary Clinton' performs 'Hallelujah' on SNL

≪ Previous: WATCH: David Blaine freaks out Jimmy Fallon, The Roots

Screengrab from YouTube/Nestor Abrogena

Nestor Abrogena’s Ang Kwento Nating Dalawa is that rare romance that successfully thrives in the lack of spectacle.

Quiet and sincere

The film opens with Sam (Nicco Manalo) waking up late for work.

While walking to the train station, he receives a call. It’s Sarah, presumably a colleague, and she starts scolding him about his being tired, overworked, and sleep-deprived. Through their short conversation, we get a glimpse of who Sam is. He’s a filmmaker, one who’s just gotten a scholarship to study in Berlin. He hasn’t gotten to fixing all of his requirements though, because he is preoccupied. He gets on his train, sits down, and fiddles with his phone.

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The film then cuts to a flashback. Sam is again on the train. He alights and meets up with Isa (Emmanuelle Vera), a film student. He’s late. She’s annoyed. He woos her with his very casual charm, and begins random conversations about everything. They’re back on the train, and she falls asleep. It is all very sweet in the way the two lovers have navigated their way from a cute squabble to a scene of such quiet and sincere tenderness.

Slow but sure

Screengrab from YouTube/Nestor Abrogena

Everything else unfolds slowly but surely.

There is more to Sam and Isa’s love story than their random discussions about historic buildings and Kurt Cobain. Frictions appear. Complications arise. Through the low-key misunderstandings and reconciliations however, Abrogena insists on normalcy. He keeps everything feeling as ordinary as all other romantic affairs. It almost feels juvenile, with a lot of the film’s moments set within school corridors and classrooms.

The film is so restrained, so insulated, so indulgent in whispers and gestures instead of impassioned sequences of lovers kissing, fighting and saying quotable quotes as most other cinematic romances that it teeters towards pointlessness. The love story at the center of Ang Kwento Nating Dalawa however is hardly ordinary.

Screengrab from YouTube/Nestor Abrogena

Abrogena cleverly plots Sam and Isa’s romance to keep the one complication that would prevent them from being perfect lovers a penultimate revelation. In so doing, he portrays what could have been a controversial relationship as a love story like any other, one that has grooves and rhythms that are immediately relatable because they are grounded not on who the lovers are but on the fallibility of their emotions with each other.

No judgment

Screengrab from YouTube/Nestor Abrogena

The film’s biggest triumph is its insistence on covering the romance without any form of judgment, as to whether whatever they are doing is within the bounds of ethics.

Throughout the film, Sam and Isa aren’t anything more than lovers going through the motions of a typical relationship. Sure, there are third parties involved, and friends guiding them with what they need to do, but there is never an instance wherein Abrogena exploited the complication that he only reveals in the end. Love is love, no matter who the person is and how they are related to each other. They are all prone to the ecstasy and the aches. – Rappler.com

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WATCH: Kate McKinnon's 'Hillary Clinton' performs 'Hallelujah' on SNL

November 12, 2016, 11:18 pm

≫ Next: Hollywood worries about Donald Trump as stars honor Jackie Chan

≪ Previous: ‘Ang Kwento Nating Dalawa’ Review: Restraint and sincerity

Screengrab from Facebook/Saturday Night Live

MANILA, Philippines – In its first episode post-election, Saturday Night Live featured a cold open that had Kate McKinnon's Hillary Clinton, a prominent entertainment fixture in the US election season, performing a cover of "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen. Cohen died at age 82 earlier this November.

In character as Hillary Clinton and wearing a white pantsuit, Clinton's signature look, the actress added her cover of "Hallelujah" to the long list of TV moments which have also featured the same song in a somber or reflective moment.

{source}

<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tonight's cold open with Kate McKinnon. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChappelleOnSNL?src=hash">#ChappelleOnSNL</a> <a href="https://t.co/zZhQOLhKXY">pic.twitter.com/zZhQOLhKXY</a></p>— Saturday Night Live (@nbcsnl) <a href="https://twitter.com/nbcsnl/status/797673802805018625">November 13, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>{/source}

Dropping the jokes in favor of this quieter moment, the cold open ends as "Hillary" finishes the cover, turns to the crowd, and says: "I'm not giving up, and neither should you."

Screengrab from Facebook/Saturday Night Live

Comedian Dave Chapelle hosted the show. A Tribe Called Quest was the musical guest.

All this comes as America adjusts to Donald Trump, the new president-elect, who defeated Hillary Clinton on election day, November 8.

Throughout the campaign period, SNL had parodied many moments from both Clinton and Trump – including their clashes at the presidential debates. Alec Baldwin's own "Donald Trump" was panned by Trump himself, prompting President Barack Obama to say at a campaign speech in Miami: "No, I'm serious. This is a guy who, like, tweets, 'They should cancel Saturday Night Live. I don't like how Alec Baldwin's imitating me.' Really? I mean, that's the thing that bothers you and you want to be president of the United States?"

Meanwhile, McKinnon won a Best Supporting Actress (Comedy) Emmy last September for her work on Saturday Night Live, thanking Clinton in her speech. Clinton congratulated McKinnon on her win with this tweet:

{source}

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Congratulations on your Emmy, Kate! Big fan of yours, too. <a href="https://t.co/w00QO1GwyH">pic.twitter.com/w00QO1GwyH</a></p>— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) <a href="https://twitter.com/HillaryClinton/status/777673718982184964">September 19, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>{/source}

– Rappler.com

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Hollywood worries about Donald Trump as stars honor Jackie Chan

November 13, 2016, 5:59 am

≫ Next: Eagles of Death Metal singer denies trying to enter Sting gig

≪ Previous: WATCH: Kate McKinnon's 'Hillary Clinton' performs 'Hallelujah' on SNL

Left-leaning Tinseltown overwhelmingly backed Democrat Hillary Clinton in the race for the White House, and stars at the Academy's glitzy Governors Awards told Agence France-Presse of their dismay at her defeat.

Asked to compare the night's honoree with Trump, double Oscar-winner Tom Hanks told AFP: "Jackie Chan has the wisdom of the East and the discipline of a master martial artist."

After a lengthy pause, he added: "Our president-elect has a big responsibility and much to prove."

For Big Bang Theory star Simon Helberg, who plays engineer Howard Wollowitz on the hit comedy series, Trump's victory in Tuesday's election was "a terrible moment for the world".

The 35-year-old, who starred alongside Hugh Grant and Meryl Streep in Florence Foster Jenkins, said change was needed but hoped a Trump presidency wouldn't "damage our future".

"The truth is not enough people showed up and that's what we have to listen to. I hope that we can squash the violence and the bigotry, and whatever else this has unleashed before it gets out of hand," he told AFP.

Andre Royo, best known for starring as a heroin addict in HBO crime drama series The Wire, said he was feeling "stressed out" by the prospect of a Trump White House.

"But I think we took for granted our perception of our country," Royo told AFP.

"I think we were a little delusional and a little naive... and now we got reminded that we've got work to do and growing to do, as a culture."

Chan, known for his comic timing and acrobatic fighting style, has appeared in around 200 movies since becoming a child actor in his native Hong Kong in the 1960s.

Global star

His Hollywood breakthrough came with Rumble in the Bronx in 1996, and he has gone on to be become a global star through the Rush Hour movies, Shanghai Noon, The Karate Kid and the Kung Fu Panda series of animated films.

The 62-year-old – who shared a table with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone – left politics out of an unscripted acceptance speech.

But he roused Hollywood's Ray Dolby Ballroom with an anecdote about realizing how badly he wanted an Academy Award after going to Stallone's house 23 years earlier and touching, kissing and smelling the American actor's Oscar statuette.

"After 56 years in the film industry, making more than 200 films – I broke so many bones – finally this is mine!" Chan, who performed many of his own daring stunts, said of his Oscar.

Film editor Anne Coates, casting director Lynn Stalmaster and documentary filmmaker Frederick Wiseman were also awarded statuettes at the Academy's 8th Annual Governors Awards.

Coates, who is 90 and lives in England, was honored for a 60-year career that has seen her collaborating with some of the industry's most acclaimed directors, including with David Lean on Lawrence of Arabia.

Stalmaster, 88, a one-time stage and screen actor from Omaha, Nebraska, began working in casting in the mid-1950s and has signed up talent for more than 200 films, including The Graduate, Deliverance and Tootsie.

Wiseman, 86, has made a film almost every year since 1967, starting with the Titicut Follies, which went behind the scenes at Bridgewater State Hospital for the criminally insane.

The Governors Awards were created as a separate event in 2009 to allow more space for the honorees to accept their statuettes and to unclutter the main show's packed schedule.

Previous winners of honorary Oscars include Lauren Bacall, Francis Ford Coppola, Oprah Winfrey, Angelina Jolie and Spike Lee. – Rappler.com

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Eagles of Death Metal singer denies trying to enter Sting gig

November 13, 2016, 6:18 pm

≫ Next: Eclectic session band legend Leon Russell dead at 74

≪ Previous: Hollywood worries about Donald Trump as stars honor Jackie Chan

Management of the Bataclan venue said they prevented two members of the Eagles of Death Metal including lead singer Jesse Hughes from entering the Sting gig on Saturday night.

"They came, I threw them out – there are things you can't forgive," the venue's co-director Jules Frutos said late Saturday, referring to remarks Hughes made during an interview in March 2016 suggesting Muslim staff at the Bataclan might have cooperated with the attackers.

The attack on the Bataclan was one of a series of assaults carried out by jihadists across Paris on November 13, 2015 in which 130 people died.

But Hughes reiterated the band manager's earlier comments that he had not tried to enter the hall at all.

"I didn't want to see the show, I just wanted to see the place (Bataclan) open. But I never actually tried to go into the show. I've never even met the dude (Frutos)... I don't know what he's talking about," he said.

The controversy, however, did not prevent Hughes on Sunday attending a ceremony in memory of the victims.

"I wouldn't imagine anyone not wanting to be here," he told reporters. "This city is a shining example of really the best possible way to react to something that's awful and evil.

"I don't think I would have gotten through it (the anniversary) if I wasn't here," he added.

Eagles of Death Metal initially enjoyed wide sympathy in the wake of the attacks.

But Hughes' provocative remarks were strongly rejected by the Bataclan which said the club's security – far from costing lives – had likely saved hundreds.

Two prominent French festivals meanwhile cancelled appearances by the band scheduled for August.

Hughes, a rare right-wing rocker and supporter of US president-elect Donald Trump, also said without evidence that Muslims had celebrated outside the hall during the siege there.

"I saw Muslims celebrating in the street during the attack. I saw it with my own eyes. In real time! How did they know what was going on? There must have been coordination," he told Taki's Magazine, a publication of Greek-born conservative commentator Taki Theodoracopulos that has faced criticism for its writings on race.

The singer apologized for his March comments later the same month, saying that his allegations were "absurd" and the result of trauma. – Rappler.com

↧

Eclectic session band legend Leon Russell dead at 74

November 13, 2016, 7:18 pm

≫ Next: Mariel Rodriguez, Robin Padila welcome baby daughter Maria Isabella

≪ Previous: Eagles of Death Metal singer denies trying to enter Sting gig

LEON RUSSELL. The musician, who collaborated with big names such as Elton John and The Rolling Stones, died on Sunday, November 13 in his sleep. Photo show Leon Russell Leon attending the 'A Poem Is A Naked Person' premiere during the 2015 SXSW Music, Film + Interactive Festival at Topfer Theatre at ZACH last year in Austin, Texas. Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for SXSW/AFP

NEW YORK, USA– Leon Russell, who achieved rare fame as a session musician by playing with artists from The Rolling Stones to Elton John and pursuing his own eclectic career, has died. He was 74.

Russell, who remained active and had tour dates in front of him, died in his sleep at his home in Nashville, his wife said in a statement Sunday, November 13 without further details.

Born in Oklahoma, Russell mastered the piano as a child and soaked up a variety of musical influences from country to rhythm and blues to gospel.

By 14, he was singing pop standards in Oklahoma nightclubs and at 17 he took a Greyhound bus to Los Angeles, seeking out music gigs.

He eventually became a leader of the so-called "Wrecking Crew" of top-notch session musicians in Los Angeles who recorded with top artists.

Key collaborations throughout his long career included The Rolling Stones, Beatle George Harrison, Willie Nelson, Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton and the Beach Boys.

{source}

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">God bless Leon Russell peace and love to all his family peace and love </p>— #RingoStarr (@ringostarrmusic) <a href="https://twitter.com/ringostarrmusic/status/797948172744069120">November 13, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>{/source}

With his long beard, top hat and lively, blues-infused piano playing, Russell was instantly identifiable at concerts.

One of his most famous performances came at the "The Concert for Bangladesh," the 1971 charity show in New York led by Harrison, in which Russell led the house band and rocked out on an energetic medley that started with the Stones' "Jumpin' Jack Flash."

By the late 1960s, Russell also became a successful songwriter, starting with Joe Cocker's "Delta Lady," and co-founded his own label, Shelter Records.

He organized Cocker's 1970s "Mad Dogs and Englishmen" tour, considered pioneering at the time by bringing together top musicians, but keeping the schedule loose so they did not need to commit full-time.

Russell eventually faded from the spotlight, traveling as a country artist under the name Hank Wilson.

He re-emerged in a major way when he collaborated with Elton John on the 2010 Grammy-nominated double album The Union.

Russell said that he had been struggling to get bookings when John unexpectedly called his former rock pianist at home, where Russell was watching television, and proposed working together.

{source}

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My darling Leon Russell passed away last night. He was a mentor, inspiration & so kind to me. I loved him and always will <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LeonRussell?src=hash">#LeonRussell</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIP?src=hash">#RIP</a> <a href="https://t.co/u2d1KccCNp">pic.twitter.com/u2d1KccCNp</a></p>— Elton John (@eltonofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/eltonofficial/status/797837586022694912">November 13, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>{/source}

"That's why I tell people he came and found me in a ditch by the side of the highway of life," Russell told the magazine of AARP, the US organization for senior citizens.

Russell was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011. – Rappler.com

↧

Mariel Rodriguez, Robin Padila welcome baby daughter Maria Isabella

November 14, 2016, 1:11 am

≫ Next: IN PHOTOS: Iya Villania, Drew Arellano's son Antonio Primo gets baptized

≪ Previous: Eclectic session band legend Leon Russell dead at 74

CONGRATULATIONS. Mariel Rodriguez and Robin Padilla welcome daughter Maria Isabella, who was born in the US. Screengrab from Instagram/@marieltpadilla

MANILA, Philippines – TV host Mariel Rodriguez and Robin Padilla welcomed their baby girl, who was born Monday, November 14 in the United States.

Robin confirmed the news of Maria Isabella's birth via Instagram.

"SubhanaAllah Alhamdulillah Allah hu akbar Allah hu akbar Allah hu akbar !!! Isabella was born 7:56 am on November 14,2016, 7.3 lbs and 20 inches. Exactly 21 hours of labor and normal delivery. Maraming salamat po mahal na Panginoong maylikha sa biyaya ng buhay at kaligayahan. Nagpapasalamat po ako sa mga taong inyong inalay sa amin upang maalagaan ang aking asawa sa kanyang maselan na pagbubuntis hanggang sa panganganak.

(Thank you beloved God our creator for the gift of life and happiness. I thank everyone who guided us and took care of my wife in her difficult pregnancy until she gave birth.)

Ako ay nagpupugay sa iyo Tita Maricon Termulo at Eric Tamesis na nagsilbing hotel ang kanilang bahay, naging driver bodyguard ang buong pamilya at higit sa lahat ay ang haplos ng isang ina at sa iyo Sir Abellardo Termulo sa pagpapakita ng iyong pagmamahal at suporta sa iyong anak, wala po kayong katulad isa po kayong alamat sa pagiging ama at bilang lolo ni Maria Isabella ay sinamahan mo siya sa pagtawid mula sa sinapupunan hanggang sa pagsilang, isa pong karangalan na kayo ang pumutol ng umbilical cord.

(I am grateful to Tita Maricon Termulo and Eric Tamesis whose house served as a hotel, they became the driver, bodyguard of the family and showed us the care of a mother, and most especially to you Sir Abellardo Termulo for showing your love and support to your daughter, there's no one like you as a father and as grandfather of Maria Isabella because you accompanied Mariel while she was pregnant until she gave birth. It was an honor that you were the one who cut the umbilical cord.)

"Ako'y buong pusong nagpapasalamat sa lahat ng mga Amerikanong nurse, midwife at staff na nagpakita ng genuine concern sa panganganak ng aking asawa. Maraming salamat din Analyn sa pagiging kapatid namin sa hirap at ginhawa. Tanggapin po ninyo ang aking paggalang at malalim na pasasalamat Dra Eileen Manalo, Dra Mangubat at higit sa lahat ako'y nagpupugay at naglulumuhod sa lahat ng mga Pilipino sa buong mundo na nagdasal at nagsalmo para maging maayos ang kabanata na ito sa buhay ni [Mariel Padilla] at ni Maria Isabella de Padilla. Mabuhay po !!! At pagpalain nawa tayong lahat ng Panginoong Maylikha."

(I want to thank all the American nurses, midwife, and staff who showed genuine concert while my wife gave birth. Thank you also to Analyn for being a sister to us in good and bad times. Please accept my respect and big thank you to Dr. Eileen Manalo, Dr Mangubat and most especially to all Filipinos around the world who prayed for the next chapter of Mariel's life and of Maria Isabella de Padilla. Thank you all and may God bless you all.)

{source} <blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:28.125% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BMzxZIzlAS8/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">SubhanaAllah Alhamdulillah Allah hu akbar Allah hu akbar Allah hu akbar !!! Isabella was born 7:56 am on November 14,2016, 7.3 lbs and 20 inches. Exactly 21 hours of labor and Normal Delivery..Maraming salamat po Mahal na Panginoong maylikha sa biyaya ng buhay at kaligayahan. Nagpapasalamat po ako sa mga taong inyong inalay sa amin upang maalagaan ang aking asawa sa kanyang maselan na pagbubuntis hanggang sa panganganak. Ako ay nagpupugay sa iyo tita Maricon Termulo at Eric Tamesis na nagsilbing hotel ang kanilang bahay, naging driver bodyguard ang buong pamilya at higit sa lahat ay ang haplos ng isang ina at sa Iyo Sir Abellardo Termulo sa pagpapakita ng iyong pagmamahal at suporta sa iyong anak, wala po kayong katulad isa po kayong alamat sa pagiging Ama at bilang lolo ni maria isabella ay sinamahan mo siya sa pagtawid mula sa sinapupunan hanggang sa pagsilang, isa pong karangalan na kayo ang pumutol ng umbilical cord. Akoy buong pusong nagpapasalamat sa lahat ng mga amerikanong nurse, midwife at staff na nagpakita ng genuine concern sa panganganak ng aking asawa. Maraming salamat din Analyn sa pagiging kapatid namin sa hirap at ginhawa. Tanggapin po ninyo ang aking paggalang at malalim na pasasalamat Dra Eileen Manalo Dra Mangubat at higit sa lahat akoy nagpupugay at naglulumuhod sa lahat ng mga Pilipino sa buong mundo na nagdasal at nagsalmo para maging maayos ang kabanata na ito sa buhay ni @marieltpadilla at ni maria Isabella de padilla. Mabuhay po !!! at pagpalain nawa tayong lahat ng Panginoong Maylikha.</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A video posted by robin padilla (@robinhoodpadilla) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-11-14T23:25:51+00:00">Nov 14, 2016 at 3:25pm PST</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>{/source}

Robin earlier announced that Mariel was taken to the hospital. He was unable to be by his wife's side as he did not have a US visa.

Last May, Mariel and Robin announced on It's Showtime that they were expecting a baby. This is the first child for Mariel, who suffered two miscarriages in the past. – Rappler.com

↧

IN PHOTOS: Iya Villania, Drew Arellano's son Antonio Primo gets baptized

November 14, 2016, 5:03 am

≫ Next: WATCH: New ‘Beauty and the Beast’ trailer unveils a ton of new footage

≪ Previous: Mariel Rodriguez, Robin Padila welcome baby daughter Maria Isabella

WELCOME PRIMO. Iya Villania, Drew Arellano and son Primo pose with friends during Primo's baptism. Screengrab from Instagram/@sidmaderazo

MANILA, Philippines – Iya Villania and Drew Arellano's son Antonio Primo was baptized on Sunday, November 13.

On Instagram, commercial and TV director Sid Maderazo, a friend of Drew shared photos from the happy occasion, held at the Christ The King Church in Quezon City. Sid is one of Primo's godfathers.

Other celebrities present include Jericho Rosales and wife Kim Jones, Ryan Agoncillo, and TV host Paolo Abrera, who came with wife Suzi.

Drew thanked everyone for being there for his son on this important day.

"Thank you ninongs, ninangs, friends and family for spending the afternoon with us," he wrote.

Iya also posted a thank you message.

"Thanks to yesterday's event, sumobra ako sa asukal at chika at napaos tuloy ako! (had too much sugar, chatting and ended up with a hoarse voice) Thank you to all the ninongs, ninangs, friends and family that spent the afternoon with us .Our boy is lucky to be loved by all of you Thank you Lord for allowing this to all come together for these rookie parents!"

{source}<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:37.3148148148% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BMyrVWpA51d/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Thanks to yesterday's event, sumobra ako sa asukal at chika at napaos tuloy ako! Thank you to all the ninongs, ninangs, friends and family that spent the afternoon with us Our boy is lucky to be loved by all of you Thank you Lord for allowing this to all come together for these rookie parents! #LastMinutePlanners Welcome to the Christian world, my precious boyBaptism: Christ the King Baptismal outfit: @inesmodainfantil (it came as a complete set! Romper, cap and shoes!) Reception: Chateau 1771 (thanks for the reco, @iamsuperbianca) Dessert and giveaways: @cupcakelabph's Tiramisu and Red velvet minis and @tazzycakesph chewy chocolate cookies Paano na yan love @drewarellano? Baptism palang toh! #GoodluckSa1stBirthday #RookieParents #PaanoBaTo </a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A photo posted by Iya Villania-Arellano (@iyavillania) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-11-14T13:13:39+00:00">Nov 14, 2016 at 5:13am PST</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>{/source}

Iya and Drew welcomed Primo last August 30. This is the first child for the couple who got married last January 2014. – Rappler.com

↧

WATCH: New ‘Beauty and the Beast’ trailer unveils a ton of new footage

November 14, 2016, 6:50 am

≫ Next: IN PHOTOS: 18 gorgeous new moments from the 'Beauty and the Beast' trailer

≪ Previous: IN PHOTOS: Iya Villania, Drew Arellano's son Antonio Primo gets baptized

Screengrab from YouTube/Disney Movie Trailers

MANILA, Philippines – We finally have a full trailer with a much closer look at the live action Beauty and the Beast! The newest trailer, released Monday night, November 14 in Manila, gives us a very, very good look at Belle, the Beast, Gaston, and even Mrs Potts and Chip.

As we’ve seen before, many of the scenes most definitely pay homage to the Disney classic. But from what we can hear, it seems that the dialogue partly mirrors the animated 1991 film, especially as we see Lumiere and Cogsworth deliberating over Belle – and the all-important “Come into the light” scene, as Belle first confronts the Beast.

There’s also a look at the whimsical winter scene, one of Belle being surrounded by wolves, and a look at a riled up Gaston and Lefou as they get ready to make trouble for our heroes.

After months of teasers and pictures, we finally have a look at all this new footage, and it’s gorgeous, indeed.

Beauty and the Beast hits theaters in 2017.

What do you think of the trailer? Let us know in the comments below. – Rappler.com

↧

IN PHOTOS: 18 gorgeous new moments from the 'Beauty and the Beast' trailer

November 14, 2016, 7:10 am

≫ Next: Coldplay in Manila: Ticket prices, concert date revealed

≪ Previous: WATCH: New ‘Beauty and the Beast’ trailer unveils a ton of new footage

Screengrab from YouTube/Disney Movie Trailers

MANILA, Philippines – Disney has just released the newest trailer for their live-action remake of Beauty and the Beast and it's chock-full of gorgeous scenes of the castle and its inhabitants. (WATCH: New ‘Beauty and the Beast’ trailer unveils a ton of new footage)

This trailer, a full 30 seconds longer than the first one released, showed off a lot more of the movie, including some scenes we've only seen pictures of. (IN PHOTOS: Enchanting first images for 'Beauty and the Beast' revealed)

{source}<iframe width="100%" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OvW_L8sTu5E" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>{/source}

Among them, Gaston and the villages, Belle's father, Belle in her iconic yellow gown dancing with the Beast, and many more!

Check out the new scenes and be swept away into Belle and the Beast's world below!

So far, here's what we've found that we haven't seen yet – though we are certain there are a few more Easter eggs or tidbits eagle-eyed viewers may have spotted!

The castle

Many frames recall the enchanted (and enchanting) castle from the 1991 animated film. The live action version is as mysterious and forbidding as ever:

Screengrab from YouTube/Disney Movie Trailers

A closer look at Kevin Kline's Maurice

Screengrab from YouTube/Disney Movie Trailers

We get a look at how he ended up in the Beast's castle at the first place, and it looks like the Beast didn't like Maurice poking around near the flowers.

We also see him encouraging Belle to leave ("The castle is alive!") and later, giving her strength as he tells her not to be afraid.

Screengrab from YouTube/Disney Movie Trailers

2. Cogsworth, Lumiere, Mrs Potts, Chip – and even Plumette!

Screengrab from YouTube/Disney Movie Trailers

The objects don't look the same as their animated counterparts, and Lumiere especially has a different look – the candlestick body looks more humanoid. Still, we get to hear as well as see these beloved characters.

Screengrab from YouTube/Disney Movie Trailers

Mrs Potts even counsels Belle in one scene, telling her that the Master isn't as bad as he seems.

Screengrab from YouTube/Disney Movie Trailers

3. The Beast

Kind, raging, gentle, sad – we get all versions of the Beast in this action-packed trailer. There's that tension-filled "Come into the light scene."

Screengrab from YouTube/Disney Movie Trailers

There's one of him near the magical rose and the iconic mirror. He asks, "show me the girl."

He steps in to defend Belle from vicious wolves.

We think that Belle is being presented with her library in this scene. Check out her stunned expression:

We hear his voice saying,"Think of the one thing you’ve always wanted…find it in your mind’s eye and feel it in your heart."

4. Gaston

As delightfully brawny as ever, there's a more sinister edge to Luke Evans' Gaston, who rallied the mob to kill the beast.

He cuts a striking figure as Belle's scorned suitor.

"My what a guy, that Gaston!"

5. We do get a closer look at Belle's many costumes throughout the film, which change from scene to iconic scene.

Winter fun with the Beast:

We aren't sure which part of the movie this scene is in, but as we viewed the sprawling landscape, there is a similar feel to the more introspective reprise of "Belle," the opening number – particulary as she sings, "I want adventure in the great wide somewhere!"

6. That ballroom scene is more dazzling than ever

7. The confrontation...is INTENSE.

We see some skidding along the castle, the mob's torches aglow as they make for the castle to kill the beast.

What was your favorite scene from the trailer? Are you happy with how the characters have been adapted for the live action version? Get ready for Beauty and the Beast to hit screens March 2017. – Rappler.com

↧

Coldplay in Manila: Ticket prices, concert date revealed

November 14, 2016, 4:37 pm

≫ Next: IN PHOTOS: 'Beverly Hills 90210' stars reunite

≪ Previous: IN PHOTOS: 18 gorgeous new moments from the 'Beauty and the Beast' trailer

COLDPLAY IN MANILA. Photo shows guitarist Jonny Buckland, drummer Will Champion, singer Chris Martin, and bassist Guy Berryman of Coldplay perform on NBC's 'Today' at Rockefeller Plaza on March 14, 2016 in New York City. The group will perform in Manila on April 4, 2017. Photo by Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images/AFP

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Coldplay has announced the date of their Philippine concert!

According to a post on the band's official social media pages, they're coming to Manila on April 4, 2017 for a concert at the Mall of Asia Arena Concert Grounds.

Here's how much a ticket costs according to Coldplay's Philippine concert promoter, MMI Live.

VIP - P22,500
Platinum - 17,500
Gold - 12,500
Silver - 7,500
Bronze - 3,500
Gen Ad - 1,800

Tickets for Coldplay in Manila go on sale on November 24, 10 am.

There are ticket pre-sales for Globe users on November 20 at 10 am to 9 pm and for Citibank card users on November 21 to 22

News that the band planned to visit the Philippines first broke in April.

On November 14, a day before they announced the Philippine concert date, they posted a teaser video that had a photo of the Philippines in it.

{source}<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:28.1018518519% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BMyki7UB391/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A video posted by Coldplay (@coldplay)</a> on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-11-14T12:14:21+00:00">Nov 14, 2016 at 4:14am PST</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>{/source}

Aside from the Philippines, Coldplay is also set to visit Singapore, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan.– Rappler.com

↧

IN PHOTOS: 'Beverly Hills 90210' stars reunite

November 14, 2016, 6:17 pm

≫ Next: WATCH: Conan O'Brien, Elijah Wood play 'Final Fantasy XV' on 'Clueless Gamer'

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REUNION. The cast of 'Beverly Hills 90210' meets up for the ReWind convention in Chicago. Screengrab from Instagram/torispelling

MANILA, Philippines – How's this for a throwback – members of the cast of '90s hit Beverly Hills 90210 reunited over the weekend at the ReWind convention in Chicago, documenting the event for fans on social media. Cast members Jason Priestley, Luke Perry, Jennie Garth, Tori Spelling, Gabrielle Carteris, Vincent Young, Christine Elise, and James Eckhouse were present to share their memories of the show that played a pivotal role in their respective careers.

Check out the video clips as they talked about being together again after 16 years. The show first aired on October 4, 1990 and ended on May 17, 2000.

The members also talked about former co-star Shannen Doherty, who played Brenda in the show, and shared messages of support for her. Shannen is currently battling breast cancer.

According to an article from Entertainment Tonight, Luke Perry, who played Dylan McKay said of Shannen: "None of us are up here today without Shannen. She’s been through a lot. She’s not doing well right now, but sometimes her contributions are minimized.”

Luke also said that he was glad to have Shannen as his partner during the show. His character Dylan was Brenda's on-again, off-again boyfriend on 90210.

"She taught me a lot. I’m glad she was my scene partner. She was great at what she did in the character with me.”

Jennie Garth, who played Kelly Taylor, also gave a shout out to her good friend, posting a photo of a pink ribbon with the words "Fight Like Brenda."

"To my soul sister [Shannen Doherty], strongest lady I've ever known. Then and now. I used to be threatened by your spirit, now I'm in awe of it. You've taught me a lot about speaking my mind and not being afraid of my power. I'm so grateful that young me got to be friends with you. But especially 'old' me! The best is yet to come on this crazy journey!! Love you!"

Aside from Shannen, Ian Ziering was unable to make it to the reunion. But he posted a video call photo from the group.

"We have #90210 all reunions all the time, even digitally. Love you like family," he said, tagging Tori, Jennie, Gabrielle and Jason.

Here's a photo of Tori, Jason, and Jennie together.

"Sometimes #Home IS about a #Zipcode I LOVE you [Jennie Garth, jason Priestley]," she said.

Check out the photos of the cast with Backstreet Boys members AJ McLean and Howie Dorough.

Beverly Hills 90210 was created by Darren Star, E Duke Vincent, and Aaron Spelling, who is also Tori's dad. It initially revolved around the adjustment of twins Brandon (Jason) and Brenda (Shannen) Walsh in West Beverly Hills High School after moving from Minnesota. Along the way, they meet a new set of friends which include Kelly (Jennie), Steve (Ian), Andrea (Gabrielle), Dylan (Luke), and Donna (Tori). – Rappler.com

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WATCH: Conan O'Brien, Elijah Wood play 'Final Fantasy XV' on 'Clueless Gamer'

November 14, 2016, 9:45 pm

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'CLUELESS GAMER.' Conan O'Brien and Elijah Wood try out 'Final Fantasy XV' before it drops. Screengrab from YouTube/Team Coco

MANILA, Philippines – Conan O'Brien is back at it with another "Clueless Gamer" segment, and this time he and his guest Elijah Wood got to try their hand at the soon-to-be-released Final Fantasy XV.

Fans of Final Fantasy might be excited to see what the game has in store, but Conan didn't seem too crazy about it.

"This is like Middle Earth Entourage," he told the famous Lord of the Rings hobbit as the game began.

"We have been playing now longer than I've played any game for 'Clueless Gamer,'" said the late night host, hilariously getting angrier and more frustrated as the segment wore on.

In the end, the comedian tells Elijah, "I don’t know what we achieved. I don’t know what we were trying to achieve. I have no sense of satisfaction."

Final Fantasy XV will be released in the US on November 29.

Watch the video above to hear what else Conan had to say about Final Fantasy XV! – Rappler.com

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[WATCH] Rappler Live Jam: Chicosci

November 14, 2016, 11:14 pm

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≪ Previous: WATCH: Conan O'Brien, Elijah Wood play 'Final Fantasy XV' on 'Clueless Gamer'

MANILA, Philippines – Chicosci is coming to Rappler HQ for a Live Jam!

After coming together in 2000, Chicosci has shot to success – and we can't wait for their Live Jam debut. Fans can watch them bring their signature energy and good vibes to our newsroom – live on Facebook and YouTube.

With their last album, This Is Not a Chicosci Record, released in 2012 and a new one coming soon, Miggy Chavez, Mong Alcaraz, Ariel Lumanlan, Eco del Rio, and Macoy Estacio are all set to play their hits and a few new songs for us this week!

Bookmark this page to watch Chicosci play for Live Jam on Thursday, November 17 or head over to fb.com/rapplerent.– Rappler.com

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