BURBANK, CA, March 9, 2011 – Warner Bros. Pictures’ Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 1 has become the highest grossing installment in the Harry Potter franchise in international markets. With just months to go before the release of the finale of the record-breaking film series based on the beloved books by J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 has earned a staggering $657.24 million and counting, soaring past the previous record-holder, 2001’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, which grossed $657 million. The announcement was made today by Veronika Kwan-Rubinek, President of International Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures.
“It’s tremendously gratifying to reach this benchmark as we enter the final stretch of this remarkable journey,” said Jeff Robinov, President of Warner Bros. Pictures Group. “We share this achievement with Jo Rowling, whose books are the foundation of this rich and vibrant world, as well as the talented people who brought her vision to life on the screen.”
“We are also incredibly proud of our teams around the world who have brought a consistent level of excellence, passion and ingenuity to the campaigns for these films,” said Sue Kroll, President, Worldwide Marketing for Warner Bros. Pictures. “And, of course, we’re thrilled that longtime fans and new audiences alike have continued to champion each film, resulting in the huge success of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1.”
Kwan-Rubinek added, “These numbers speak to the phenomenal and enduring strength of this property, which has captivated audiences across all borders, regardless of age or culture. We’re looking forward to releasing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 this summer, which will be a fitting way to bring to a close the movie event of a generation.”
With the success of its first six of seven titles, the Harry Potter series had already achieved the distinction of being the top-grossing film franchise of all time, with a combined worldwide gross of $6.37 billion. This benchmark for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 - which has earned $951.8 million worldwide - as well as the anticipation for Part 2, opening globally on July 15, 2011, should ensure its place in film history for years to come.
Producer Robert Zemeckis credits the cast Disney Animation Studios’ “Mars Needs Moms” for infusing so much humor into the film. “The situations are funny and the scenes are hilarious - the whole absurd reality of the movie just lends itself to fantastic humor. But our cast in this movie is probably one of the best improve casts that has been put together in recent years. They can take a scene and add to it in a wonderful way.”
Milo (Seth Green) is 9. He has comic books to read, zombie movies to watch and bed-jumping to do. He doesn’t have time to eat his vegetables and do chores, no matter what his mom says. Mom is sick of nagging, and Milo’s sick of Mom. But when he suggests that he’d be better off without her, things get a little hairy. His efforts to apologize are interrupted when Martians—yes Martians—arrive, steal his mom, return to their spaceship and rocket to Mars—with a 9-year-old stowaway who’s determined to rescue the mother he’d wished away just moments before. To Milo, the whole thing would be downright hilarious if he weren’t headed to another planet.
Mom (Joan Cusack) loves Milo more than anything, she just wishes he’d do as he’s told—like eating his vegetables…and not feeding them to the cat (who in turn yaks all over her floor). She only wants what’s best for Milo—and let’s face it, broccoli is very good for growing boys. Her good intentions and loving ways may not please Milo, but they certainly impress the Martian scouts who are looking for a good mom.
Gribble (Dan Fogler) is a 30-something who has been on Mars since his own mom was “needed” by Martians many years prior. When Milo reaches the planet and is taken prisoner, Gribble rescues him, guiding him through a series of secret chutes to the elaborate lair on Mars’ lower level that Gribble calls home. Tricked out with various electronic and spy devices, Gribble’s digs allow him to tap into the planet’s communication systems and spy on what is going on in the hub of all activity, the Citadel. Gribble—who still uses the ’80s lingo from his childhood—is understandably bummed when he realizes that Milo, his first human friend in ages, plans to save his mom and return to Earth. But Gribble agrees to help Milo—even if deep down, he’d love it if Milo could hang out with him forever.
Supervisor (Mindy Sterling) is the much-feared, heartless Martian leader. She is behind the planet’s dismal belief system that promotes cold, strict conduct and prohibits warmth and love, virtually forcing the need to steal Earth’s moms and extract their mom-ness to help nurture their young. She is the leader of Mars’ special security forces, the Siss Guards.
Ki (Elisabeth Harnois) is a strong-willed young Martian who learned to speak English by watching a ’70s sitcom. She spends her time painting elaborate graffiti on the walls of Mars. But she does so in secret. She’s forced to hide her artistic side on a planet that is devoid of color and emotion. The Martians are strictly forbidden from expressing any individuality, but Ki thinks for herself—particularly when she decides to help Milo. Talented, sneaky AND tough—Ki just may be the coolest renegade in Martian history.
Wingnut (Kevin Cahoon) is the leader of the Hairy Tribe Guys, who embody the lost love of Mars. They live in the underground trash caverns, discarded by the misguided civilized society above. Wingnut was Gribble's buddy before Milo arrived on Mars, and Gribble thinks he’s a little crazy and not too smart. But Wingnut just might understand far more about what is happening on Mars than anyone thinks.
Dad (Tom Everett Scott) is a dedicated family man—even if he is completely unaware of the interplanetary adventure Mom and Milo take together. He does notice that his often-cantankerous son seems somehow different when Milo mysteriously volunteers to take out the trash. “Did something happen to Milo this weekend?”
Opening across the Philippines on March 16 in IMAX 3D, Digital 3D and regular format, “Mars Needs Moms” is distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures International.
Classic children’s show Batibot underscores its strong connection among modern-day kids audience as it continues to topple competition since it debuted last November 27. Citing data from Nielsen Media Research, Batibot performed strongly last Saturday (March 5) in Mega Manila with 30.4% audience share among all people as compared to GMA’s Art Angel with 22.8% audience share and ABS-CBN’s Avatar the Legend of Aang with 19.7% audience share.
Moreover, throughout its 15-week run on TV, the all-new Batibot also proves to be the most preferred show among kids aged 2-12 years old in Mega Manila during its timeslot (Saturday at 8:30 to 9:00 am) with an average audience share of 31.5% audience share, leaving its rival programs far behind: GMA’s 22.8% audience share and ABS-CBN’s 21.1% audience share. This is according to Nielsen Media Research data from November 27 to March 5.
A decade after fruitful 18-year run on Philippine TV, the record holder as the most awarded and longest-running Filipino-produced children’s show made a very impressive comeback late last year; capturing about a third of total viewers with 34% audience share on its pilot episode, more than double than that of ABS-CBN and GMA with both generating only less than a fifth each (17.6 % and 16.6% audience shares, respectively). “These figures speak for what kind of programs kids of today wanted and, at the same time, needed. Our stronghold among the young audience continues to drive us to offer better and relevant kids’ shows - case in point the return of Batibot,” said Trina Ching, TV5’s program manager.
This Saturday (March 12), Batibot will kick off a four-week special to feature some of the highlights of the show.
Batibot was first introduced by the Philippine Children’s Television Foundation, Inc. (PCTVF) in response to a demand for local educational program that would provide smart teaching tools for Filipino children. “After more than a decade we are trying our best to reach out to a new generation of children, introducing Batibot to them in a different time and media landscape, fully conscious of the fact that they have to make their own choices about what TV shows they enjoy. The ratings show parents are watching alongside their children. That is truly encouraging,” shared Feny de los Angeles-Bautista, PCTVF executive director and producer of Batibot.
Catch Batibot every Saturday from 8:30 to 9:00am with five-minute daily shorts at 9am and 4pm on TV5 Kids.
Star Cinema: In celebration of the 20th anniversary of the longest running drama series in Asia - MMK (Maalaala Mo Kaya), it will feature Angel Locsin and Bea Alonzo together in a project you wouldn't want to miss - Maalaala Mo Kaya: The Movie 2.
The first MMK movie was released in 1994 featuring the true-to-life story of letter sender Marilyn Acierda played by Aiko Melendez. Chin Chin Gutierrez and Richard Gomez were also in the cast.
Kris Aquino on Twitter: "my new album will be released end of March, titled 'My Hearts Journey" under Universal Records. i did some voice over corrections monday"
TV5: Wendell Ramos signed an exclusive contract with the Kapatid Network yesterday, March 8. As part of the deal, he will star in two primetime shows - the newly reformatted "Hapi-er Together" with Long Mejia and a new lead cast, Joey Marquez. He will also become part of "Babaeng Hampaslupa" as hired-killer commissioned to kill Alice Dixon but will later become involved emotionally with the actress' character.
GMA-7: "Tween Hearts" stars Barbie Forteza, Joshua Dionisio and the rest of the cast will finally be seen on widescreen via GMA Films' upcoming movie "Tween Hearts The Movie" which will be directed by Mark Reyes.
Viva Films: "Who's That Girl?" starring Anne Curtis, Eugene Domingo, Luis Manzano, and John Lapus earned P60 million on its 6 days of showing.
TV5: Kapatid Network's latest TV project titled "Nagbabagang Bulaklak" will premiere on March 21, Monday, after "Babaeng Hampaslupa". The teleserye that will change the TV viewing habit of Pinoys according to TV5 will launch the career of Ritz Azul to full stardom. Also in the lead is former Kapuso and Starstruck alumni Arci Muñoz. In supporting but important roles are Ruffa Gutierrez, Sheryl Cruz, Valerie Concepcion, Philip Salvador and Richard Gomez.
Cinemalaya 2011 Update: Glaiza de Castro, Carlo Aquino and Marc Abaya star in Cinemalaya entry "i-libing" (previously "e-libing"). Joining them are Alchris Galura, Louella de Cordova, and Earl Ignacio.
"i-libing" is written, photographed, and directed by Rommel Sales.
ABS-CBN: Zanjoe Marudo and Megan Young topbill the 15th installment of Precious Hearts Romances Series titled “Hiyas.”
Zanjoe will play the role of “Silang”, a man searching for a precious gem but instead finds his true love in presence of the character played by Megan Young. Other members of the cast include Joross Gamboa, John Arcilla, Edward Mendez, Nonie Buencamino, Kristel Moreno, and Neri Naig.
“Hiyas” is being helmed by acclaimed indie director Adolf Alix, Jr.
Wall Street Journal (WSJ) has reported about Willie Revillame's variety show Willing Willie "shaking up Philippine TV market."
In an article by James Hookway published March 3, the WSJ said that after Revillame transferred from ABS-CBN to TV5 last year, he inspired "other entertainers to jump ship... boosting the fortunes of his new network."
According to the WSJ, TV5 "grabbed 29 percent of the weekend prime-time audience in the Manila area (in the fourth quarter) to become No. 2, overtaking ABS-CBN, which had 23 percent." Still at the top, GMA network said it "welcomes the entry of TV5."
"The ratings competition is turning into a three-way battle sooner than we previously thought," the WSJ quoted Deutsche Bank analyst Carissa Mangubat.
Citing Nielsen Co., the WSJ reported that the Philippine TV ad market had almost $4 billion in spending last year. "The Philippine TV ad market is bigger than India's and on par with Indonesia's... While newspapers take up the bulk of advertising in India, TV eats up about 75 percent of ad spending in the Philippines and draws buyers from around the world."
Here's a recap of American Idol Season 10 - Top 13 Performances from @john_socal who was at the taping on Tuesday, March 8.
Wow. So I really wasn't that excited about the season but this show turned me around.
First we ended up sitting behind and above the stage directly behind the American idol sign. You should be able to see us when ryan comes down the staircase at the start haha.
They had the audience do several waves shots for the opening. I have to admit it was kind of fun.
Before the show started they brought the top 13 out to say hi. Then they did a bunch of camera shots of them on stage with serious and smiley faces. They were totally ignoring Debbie the stage manager who wanted them in a circle facing out. She had to "mom" them into position.
Then the judges came out. JLo looked amazing as usual although I can't remember what she was wearing #fail. Tyler looked much better dressed than that pink think he was wearing. Dawg was wearing like a sports jersey - unimpressed. They talked to the audience for a while when they had a technical problem getting the first contestant story going. Tyler found a hot girl in the audience to hug and kiss - blech. JLo was thanking everyone for buying her single. Nigel and Simon Fuller were out in view the whole show.
First one up was Lauren Alaina. She sang Shinia Any Man of Mine. Her voice was quite amazing and pitch perfect. The song wasn't my favorite but I don't know Shinia. Judges thought it didn't show off her voice the best but said she could sing anything.
Next up was Casey Abrams sing Joe Cocker Little Help from my Friends. He came down the center staircase and sang on the stairs then to the stage. It was an amazing performance. Judges loved it. He was excited about the comments. They do a shot of each contestant as they go off stage with their opinion of how they did. I think he was wearing leather.
Next Ashton Jones doing Diana Ross When u tell me u love me. barry gordy was in the audience cuz producers said he had to see it. It was so flat. Of all the Diana ross songs, she picks one that no one knows. Judges say as much. It was really not good in my opinion. She could be in danger. Dressed full diva.
Next Paul McDonald singing Ryan Adams Come Pick Me Up. Nobody knew the song. He was doing these crazy dance moves. He sounded like Macy Gray (copyright Scott). Ryan makes fun of the dance moves. JLo said she never heard the song. Judges mediocre comments but they love him. It was karaoke to the max in my opinion. I just don't get him. Again wearing weird Elvis clothes. I think he'd be my pick for votefortheworst.
Next Up was Pia singing Celine Dion When you Tell me U Love me. She started out low and a bit weird but really brought it midway and at the end. Judges loved it.
James Durbin sang Paul McCartney Maybe I'm Amazed. I became mildly interested in him last week with the Judas Priest. I had put him in the Adam Lambert screamfest category from the start. They totally cleaned him up. new hair cut, no facial hair. Best dressed - total cool rocker look. His voice was just amazing live. You will play this over and over. I predict he will sell the most on itunes this week by major numbers. I was so impressed. Humble too. Judges were speechless. Total love. He could win it all. In my opinion, sang better than Paul McCartney (when he could still sing)
Haley did Leann Rimes Blue with this weird yodel. She sang it really good although I'm not familiar with the song. Her and James were up in our section for a shot before they sang. She's quite stunning. I'm sure she will be safe. I think Randy said it made him sleepy lol
Next Jacob Lusk RJ Kelly I can Fly - ugh, I'm not a fan of this kind of singing but he was really hitting some amazing notes. The guy can definitely sing. They pimped him out with 6 gospel singers. Judges loved it.
Thia sang Michael Jackson Smile . the first part was a nice solo but then she went into this jazzy remix that just didn't work. judges were nice but Simon would have said pack your bags.
Stefano sang Stevie Wonder Lately. His voice is amazing. No one was very familiar with the song. He probably could have picked a better song but his voice is just amazing. His brother was in the audience that looked like his double. R they twins? Him and James are very obviously very good friends and rooting for each other. In fact the whole cast seems very happy and supportive of each other. He was looking smoking hot in leather and a tie I believe.
Karen sang Selena If I Fall in Love. I dunno. I didn't like it all. I think she could be in danger. Simon would say forgettable.
Scotty sang Garth Brooks The River. The crowd obviously loves him. He sang spot on with these really cheesy Beverly Hillbilly backgrounds. He's a frontrunner for sure as we've seen on dialidol. Just wearing a blue cowboy shirt. Nigel had the audience swaying, ie he was pimping him
Naima closed it with Rhianna umbrella. She had the most energy. Good dancer. She rapped. She reggaed but in the end she didn't sing very well tonight. The judges blamed it on her doing too much and not able to focus on breath control. I'm sure she's safe.
At the end the 13 came on stage as they showed the numbers. Stefano and James were jumping and high fiving each other as they showed their numbers. I just love the comradery.
After its phenomenal success in Puerto Rico and USA, and other parts of the world, controversial family drama“¿Dónde Está Elisa?” now hits the pearl of the orient, as ABS-CBN, the Philippines’ largest multimedia conglomerate, proudly brings its much-awaited Philippine TV adaptation, Nasaan Ka Elisa?
“¿Dónde Está Elisa?” first conquered the international TV scene when US-based television giant Telemundo remade it last year. From then on, a lot of countries across the world have aired this mystery drama. These countries include Venezuela, Georgia, Spain, Croatia, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Peru, Mexico, Lithuania, Poland, Iran and Romania. “¿Dónde Está Elisa?” will soon dominate Bulgaria, Serbia and Slovakia.
Now, ABS-CBN takes pride in offering the purely Pinoy adaptation of the hit Hispanic drama through Nasaan Ka Elisa? This time, it’s Melissa Ricks’ turn to be the “Desaparacidos,” giving every Filipino an exciting afternoon leisure. Her co-actors possess the same high-spirit in the challenge of portraying the telenovela’s most daring roles. Distinguished directors Richard Arellano and Jerome Pobocan lead the pack as the directors of this revolutionary drama that is sure to hit Philippines’ afternoon TV block.
The story revolves around lives of the Altamira clan whose lives changed when Elisa (Melissa Ricks), the oldest daughter of Mariano Altamira (Albert Martinez) and Dana Altamira (Agot Isidro), disappears. From the day she’s gone, secrets of every family member and friends; the paranoias start, histories from the past, themes that were supposed to be buried, gradually unfold. Then the recriminations among family members start. In the midst of family conflicts many suspects come to light, among them family members - Elisa's parents, uncles, cousins, fellow students, former and present Altamira employees, as well as friends that used to go to the same places that Elisa would frequent. Who’s the real culprit? Here’s a brief background Nasaan ka Elisa’s cast of characters:
Mariano Altamira (Albert Martinez) Mariano is a 45-year old successful business tycoon; a man who takes pride in his family. He is a perfectionist not only personally but professionally who managed to save his father’s business empire from bankruptcy. He is considered a good role model and a born leader; the one his family looks to for strength especially in difficult times. He is a very conservative man who is very protective of his three daughters. His greatest fear is the possibility of something destroying his “perfect” family. His world is turned upside down when Elisa disappears, it will cause him to doubt his “perfect” life and the people in it.
Dana Altamira (Agot Isidro) Dana is Mariano’s 42-year old wife. She is beautiful, demure and always present at social gatherings. She seems like the perfect wife but in reality, although she admires her husband’s principles, she sometimes feels stifled. It is not in her nature to complain, always classy and poised, she manages to smile through all the obligations that come with being the wife of such a powerful man. She is a good mother who always puts her family first. Because she came from a broken family, she will do anything to keep her family together. Her marriage with Mariano has been solid but as they try to find Elisa, will it crumble under the pressure?
Elisa Altamira (Melissa Ricks) Elisa, the “Desaparecidos,” is Mariano and Dana’s 18-year-old daughter. She is the eldest of 3 siblings; being groomed to take over their family’s business empire one day;Respectful, responsible and well-loved in the community. Although Mariano won’t admit it, it’s obvious that she is his favorite daughter. Elisa is the type of girl who gets what she wants and tries to always please her parents. Although she is a pampered heiress, she still takes time to help out the community by organizing charity events. She is assertive, opinionated and she is what could be considered a “perfect daughter” or is she? Why would a girl everybody loves vanish without a trace?
Cristobal Rivas (Joem Bascon) Cristobal is police officer in his mid-30s who specializes in kidnapping cases. Cristobal is assigned to lead the investigation on Elisa Altamira’s disappearance. He is an intelligent NBI agent who is so focused on work that he is sometimes described by colleagues as being “anti-social”. The investigation on Elisa’s mysterious disappearance causes some ghosts of his dark past to resurface. He becomes so involved with wanting to solve this case that he begins to deal with his own issues in the process. Will he be able to solve the mystery behind what really happened to Elisa and will he finally be able to be at peace with his dark past?
Cecille Caceres (Vina Morales) Cecille is Mariano’s ambitious, competitive sister. Sosyalera; A “fashionista” who is very manipulative. She is used to getting she wants and she’ll do anything to get her way. She has a live-in partner named Bruno and a son from a previous marriage named Edward. She is very intelligent and a great businesswoman. Despite some hidden resentment because Mariano doesn’t approve of Bruno, she remains a supportive sister. Her ambition is to replace her brother as their company’s president.Could her resentment have driven her to do something to hurt Mariano?
Bruno De Silva (Eric Fructoso) Bruno is Cecille’s live-in partner who comes from a poor family. He has often been called a “gold digger” because he and Cecille are from different social backgrounds. Their age difference also becomes somewhat of an issue. He has a good relationship with the kids of the Altamira clan and a buddy to everyone. He works for the Altamira’s company but harbors some bitterness towards Mariano because he is never promoted. Knowing that it would destroy Mariano, could he be the one behind Elisa’s disappearance?
Santi Rincon (Franco Daza) Santi is the 19-year old adopted son of Viviana and Joey. He is accepted as part of the clan but he still secretly feels like an outsider. Santi feels that Elisa is the only one who truly accepts him. They have a close relationship but maybe they’re “too” close? Could his attachment to Elisa have anything to do with her disappearance? Could he have the answers that can solve this mystery?
Edward Caceres (Aldred Gatchalian) Edward is Cecille’s 19-year old son from a previous marriage. He resents his cousin Santi because he thinks their family likes him better. He is an introvert who harbors unexpressed angst. Since he’s jealous of Santi, could he have been jealous of Santi and Elisa’s closeness? Could he be the one who knows where Elisa is?
Viviana Rincon (Mickey Ferriols) Viviana is Cecille and Mariano’s sister. She is the middle child and is often described as the “peacemaker” of the siblings. Although she comes from one of the richest families, she is unable to manage money well and for some time, she suffered from a gambling problem. Viviana became a “prodigal” daughter because she squandered a lot of their family’s money to sustain her gambling addiction. Since she is buried in debt, could she have resorted to desperate measures like kidnapping her own niece?
Joey Rincon (Christopher Roxas) Joey is Viviana’s husband who is a bit younger than her. He is a good husband but he’s dealing with some personal issues of his own. He also works for the Altamira’s company but unlike Cecille, he is not really good at business, he only sucks up to Mariano to get ahead professionally. What could he have to do with Elisa’s disappearance? Could he be smarter than everyone thinks he is?
Chrissy Altamira (Isabella De Leon) Chrissy is Elisa’s 16-year old younger sister. She harbors jealousy towards her older sister but ultimately looks up to her. Crissy is a quiet, obedient daughter who harbors angst toward her father because she thinks he has always loved Elisa more than her. Could jealousy have blinded this young girl to harm her own sister?
Nick (Allen Dizon) Nick is Mariano’s close confidant and best friend since high school who works as an accountant for the Altamiras. Mariano trusts him and they have been allies through every storm of life. He once joked kidnapping Elisa would make him rich, but did he take his own joke seriously? He remains faithful to Mariano despite everything but does Mariano truly know his best friend. Nick, like many of the people in Mariano’s life, has some secrets of his own.
Ella Altamira (Alexa Ilacad) Ella is Mariano and Dana’s youngest daughter. She looks up to her sister Elisa and is so attached to her. Elisa’s disappearance affects her greatly but as the search continues, will she find strength and finally open up to her other sister Chrissy?
Giselle Santillan (Desiree Del Valle) Giselle is respected detective who has been Cristobal’s colleague for many years. She and Cristobal work together to solve the mystery behind Elisa’s disappearance. She has developed feelings for Cristobal over the years but she’s never revealed this to him. Will Giselle act on her feelings when she discovers that Cristobal is beginning to fall in love with someone else?
Nasaan Ka Elisa? - Trailer:
Join the whole nation in looking for the “Desaparecidos.” Catch Nasaan Ka Elisa? premiering on March 21 on ABS-CBN.
Cameron Diaz rocks a pair of sunglasses and ankle booties while sitting behind a desk in the poster of comedy film "Bad Teacher."
The 38-year-old actress plays Elizabeth Halsey in the movie - a foul mouthed junior high teacher who tires to woo a new colleague after being dumped by her sugar daddy.
Bad Teacher, which will hit theaters on June 24, 2011, also stars Cameron's ex-boyfriend Justin Timberlake and Jason Segel.
24-year-old American rapper Waka Flocka Flame wears nothing but a bling in the latest campaign for Peta!
Being the first rapper to star in Peta’s “Ink, Not Mink” campaign, he urged the the hip hop community to think about where their fur coats, collars, and cuffs came from.
“Understand where that fox fur came from before you spend $1,000…someone got their head beat in and electrocuted,” Waka said. “Understand what you buy, instead of just going off fashion and what it looks like - that’s what I’d tell my community,” he further reiterated.
Check out the movie trailer of Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon's upcoming film "Water For Elephants".
The film is about a veterinary school student Jacob (Pattinson) who meet and fall in love with Marlena (Witherspoon), a star performer in a circus of a bygone era. The two discover beauty amidst the world of the Big Top, and come together through their compassion for a special elephant. Against all odds - including the wrath of Marlena’s charismatic but dangerous husband, August (Christopher Waltz) - Jacob and Marlena find lifelong love.
Also stars in the movie are Oscar winner Christoph Waltz as Reese’s husband and Tai, who plays Rosie the Elephant.
Water for Elephants, which is based on the bestseller of the same title, will hit theaters on April 22, 2011.
This episode was odd to say the least. I was expecting raunchy jokes once we got the special TV-14 warning at the start of the episode. I just didn’t expect the plots to be so disappointing. Holly comes back to take over as the Sex Ed teacher at Mckinley. Yay… This really puts a hitch in Emma’s plans to take over the school with her celibacy club with it’s three members. Rachel joins enthusiastically while Quinn is probably just there to get back her image seeing as she’s spending her free time getting hickeys from Finn.
When Brittany has a pregnancy scare..and by scare I mean a stork builds a nest outside her house and she automatically thinks shes pregnant..it dawns on Will that his kids are all poorly informed about the birds and the bees. He asks Holly for help with informing the class and this means a dirty musical number with her singing lead. I understand he’s trying to help but..I feel like they’d get fired for this in real life. This performance of Do You Wanna Touch Me There is all sorts of awkward. Boobs everywhere.
Speaking of boobs, Brittany is confused about her relationship with Santana and Santana’s refusal to talk about it isn’t helping any. What they’ve been doing is all in good fun to her but Brittany thinks she may have developed feelings. She asks Holly for some help to get Santana to open up. Cue the love confused guitar of Holly who is apparently going to be in every song tonight. They perform Landslide and Santana sheds some tears as she seems finally ready to open up to Brittany. She confesses her love to Brittany while admitting how terrified she is of being accepted. Brittany in turn shuts her down because she doesn’t want to hurt Artie.
A few of the other kids instead of being celibate, want to be more sexy. Lauren wants to make a sex tape with Puck to secure her the same type of fame of Kim Kardashian. Gurl you’re better off. Holly puts a stop to her dreams of stardom by reminding them that such a tape would be considered child porn. When Sue informs Blaine and Kurt about New Directions intentions of sexing up Regionals, Blaine decides they need to practice their charm during performances. They sing Animal for a group of girls from a neighboring school and Kurt is horrible during it. He makes faces similar to gas pains according to Blaine and that just about sums it up for me. Blaine is worried that Kurt’s embarrassment about sex will hurt him in the future so he goes to Burt to encourage him to have The Talk. While initially wanting to kill himself when Burt brings it up, Kurt listens to the Father of the Year give an amazing speech about love and sex and Kurt’s self worth.
Last but not least, while Schue is busy being gross and creepy with Holly in the choir room, Emma comes up with her own performance with the girls of her celibacy club. She thinks it only fair to celebrate both sides of the debate because before now, she has been getting endlessly mocked by Holly. Rude. The club performs a little Afternoon Delight and Emma is shocked to learn it isn’t actually about dessert. Poor girl. Carl begs Holly for help because as of yet, Emma and he have yet to get it on. Emma admits she’s confused about her feelings for Will and Carl offers to give her some space.
Funniest Quotes of the Night:
Finn: Cucumbers can give you aids?!
Puck: Apart from my afternoon deuce, it’s my favorite part of the day!
ABS-CBN Publishing Inc. (API) proudly launched VANTAGE, a premiere photography magazine featuring the celebrity photographs of Philippines’ renowned “master of shutters" Mark Nicdao, with an exquisite grand launch, book signing and exhibit last March 6, Sunday at the Fashion Walk of Greenbelt 5, Makati City.
VANTAGE is the first ever API title that comes with eight collector’s edition cover, showcasing photographs of the fashion and entertainment industry’s crème de la crème from 2003 to present. The eight covers flaunt radiant poses of Kris Aquino; Sarah Geronimo; John Lloyd Cruz; Jericho Rosales; Bea Alonzo, Anne Curtis, KC Concepcion and Angel Locsin; Solenn Heusaff, Marian Rivera and Cristine Reyes.
“In 2003, when Mark was beginning his career, I first heard of this young new photographer and I saw some of his works. One of our first collaborations was the 20-page special supplement of Metro Magazine. It was very coherent. It was something very beautiful and there’s magic on it. For a long time we’ve been wanting to showcase Mark’s work in a more permanent platform,” said ABS-CBN Publishing’s Carlo Tadiar, who’s also the Content Unit Head of VANTAGE.
“There are so many people to thank for this project. I wanna thank first the one who gave me this luck - having to work with the most talented, the most beautiful, the most honest and the most real people here in Manila. I wanna thank everyone. Well, I just got out of the hospital due to stress. I had a huge migraine and now, I feel better that I see everyone here. This is my medicine,” said Mark after he was introduced.
Hosted by acclaimed events specialists Tim Yap and Mega daughter KC Concepcion, Mark Nicdao’s VANTAGE was attended by other most sought after celebrities - Georgina Wilson, Michelle Madrigal, Ruffa, Richard and Raymond Gutierrez, Kim Chiu, Angel Locsin, Anne Curtis, Jericho Rosales, Bea Alonso, Bianca King, Lovi Poe, Carla Humphries, Liz Uy and Kris Aquino. Other VIPs were also there like Wil Stein.
A walk through of Nicdao’s favorite works was offered for the guests, where he shared the inspirations and stories behind the photographs. A chronicle of Nicdao’s colorful life was also presented, followed by a silent auction and an autograph signing by the master of photography himself. Party music was brought by DJ Jujiin Samonte.
The collector's edition of Vantage will have a limited run - only 150 numbered copies printed per cover - and will be exclusively available in all Fully Booked outlets. The regular newsstand edition will be available in leading newsstands and bookstores nationwide on March 20.
There are three chapters in the life of a whistleblower according to Archbishop Oscar Cruz. First, he tells the truth. Second, the public will believe him, and third some people will try to take his life.
This is the risk that whistleblowers like Jun Lozada, Col. George Rabusa, Sandra Cam, and Sgt. Vidal Doble had and continue to face after telling the world what they know about the scams and the scums in the government.
This Thursday, March 10, in “Krusada,” Karen Davila will expose the plight of whistleblowers who have to change houses from time to time and give up their jobs in fear for their lives.
Karen has spoken to many whistleblowers as part of ABS-CBN News and “The Correspondents.” Witnessing the sorry state of their lives has driven her to push for the Whistleblower Protection Act, a law that protects and addresses the needs of whistleblowers.
While they get fame and the people’s support, they also become targets of individuals or groups who want to silence them. Is this the price of telling the truth?
Listen, take part and be one with Karen Davila’s crusade for the whistleblowers this Thursday, March 10, in “Krusada,” after “Bandila” on ABS-CBN. Because it takes more than words to make a stand.
British actor James McAvoy (“Wanted,” “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”) explores his romantic side as he provides the voice of the love-struck Gnomeo in Touchstone Pictures’ new animated comedy “Gnomeo & Juliet” in which Shakespeare’s revered tale gets a comical, off-the-wall makeover.
Directed by Kelly Asbury (“Shrek 2”) and showcasing both classic and original songs by Elton John, “Gnomeo & Julliet” also features the voice of Emily Blunt (“The Devil Wears Prada”) as Juliet, who with Gnomeo have as many obstacles to overcome as their quasi namesakes when they are caught up in a feud between neighbors. But with plastic pink flamingos and thrilling lawnmower races in the mix, can this young couple find lasting happiness?
For the voice cast of the film, becoming a gnome isn’t a walk in the garden, so to speak. Each actor works individually, hitting the recording studio at various times during the process, and filmmakers tie it all together.
“At the beginning it was particularly hard, but then it got easier,” says James McAvoy. “Emily [Blunt] would come in to record and that informed my character. What we did informed the writing and then they’d come back with a script that was slightly evolved. Even though we’re not there together as actors, the implications of what we did individually now exist on screen. It’s really odd, but it’s fun.”
Gnomeo is the star gardener of the Blues - a gnome who knows how to make things happen. He’s the loyal son of Lady Bluebury and best friend to Benny. But being top gnome is not everything it’s cracked up to be. There are duties, responsibilities, expectations - and Tybalt, a Red who’d love to knock Gnomeo right out of his award-winning garden. But gnomes don’t leave their gardens…or do they? It’s during a rare outing that Gnomeo meets her - Juliet - a Red. And everything changes forever.
“He’s the perfect Gnomeo,” says director Kelly Asbury of McAvoy. “He has texture to his voice and he brings a real sincerity to the character.”
Though this might be challenging, considering said character is a gnome. “Gnomes - they’re quite cute,” says McAvoy of his garden persona. “Gnomeo does look like a classic garden gnome, but he’s got a little bit of something extra. It’s nice to imagine that all gnomes have something extra. They’ve all got something that they’re hiding from you and when the lights go out, it comes out.”
McAvoy previously starred alongside Morgan Freeman and Angelina Jolie in “Wanted,” directed by Timur Bekmambetov and based on the graphic novel by Mark Millar. He next stars in the upcoming X-Men prequel “X-Men First Class” and provides the voice of the character of Arthur in the Sony Pictures 3D Animation “Arthur Christmas.”
Opening soon across the Philippines in Digital 3D and regular format, “Gnomeo & Juliet” is distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures International.
Initially conceived as a tale in which two husbands score a week off from marriage while their mates anxiously await developments, Warner Bros.’ new comedy “Hall Pass” took another twist as filmmakers the Farrelly Brothers delved further into the story and characters. Now, in addition to tracking Rick (Owen Wilson) and Fred (Jason Sudeikis) on their seven-day bender, the story takes a look at what might happen if Maggie (Jenna Fisher) and Grace (Christina Applegate) assumed the same freedom.
“It has to go both ways. That’s key to unlocking the story, making it fair and opening it up for everyone,” says Peter Farrelly. Not only fair, but, as Bradley Thomas points out, more honest. “If you make a movie about two guys who get a hall pass while their wives are sitting at home, hoping and praying they don’t do anything, that’s just baloney. It’s not real. I’m sure that if these two guys are looking at other women, then other guys are checking out their wives, too.”
To allow Rick and Fred some space for the week, as well as themselves, the women head out of town to Maggie’s parents’ home in Cape Cod. Two days later, tanned and relaxed in the stands at a Minor League baseball game, Grace attracts the flattering attention of Gerry, a confident, young hard-bodied first baseman, played by Tyler Hoechlin, while Grace is approached by the team’s suave coach, coincidentally named Rick, played by Bruce Thomas.
It’s not till the guys ask them out for a beer that Maggie and Grace understand that this hall pass could be printed on both sides…
“For Maggie, the story becomes about her own complacency in the marriage,” offers Jenna Fischer. “After she grants her husband a week off because she thinks it’s what he wants, she realizes that she’s also been feeling a little restless. Then she meets a man who’s willing to help her cash in a hall pass of her own.
“Owen and I really focused on the dynamic of Maggie and Rick’s relationship so that when the complications arise, they carry some weight. I think you have to believe that these two people are really meant to be together,” Fischer continues. “It’s one of the reasons why I responded to the script.”
If Maggie is looking for moral support at this crucial juncture, Grace is no help. “Grace is the voice in her head beckoning her to the dark side,” says Christina Applegate.
In fact, it’s Grace who makes the valid point that if Rick and Fred are taking the week off, then she and Maggie are likewise single - and should behave accordingly. Says Applegate, “The way Grace sees it, it should be tit for tat. The best way to get back at her husband is to do the same thing he’s doing. This 22-year-old specimen tickles her fancy and she’s tempted to make a big mistake. Grace is frustrated that things have come to this, and when you’re frustrated you don’t always make the right choices.”
By throwing the wives into the breach along with their husbands, “Hall Pass” not only doubles the story’s comedic possibilities but raises the emotional stakes.
“While they’re away, the women sort of rediscover their own youth. When these guys are hitting on them, at first they think, ‘It’s okay, we’ll just go to the barbeque with them,’ but then things start to heat up unexpectedly,” says Bobby Farrelly.
“Rather than just a fantasy about having a hall pass,” Applegate concludes, “it becomes a story about working to be sure your relationship is sustainable for the rest of your life. There are a lot of broad moments, and crazy guys doing crazy things, but it’s also people working through a situation, which allows for some beautiful and heartfelt moments.”
Opening soon across the Philippines, “Hall Pass” is a New Line Cinema presentation to be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.
Here are the Top 10 Daytime and Primetime TV ratings of ABS-CBN, TV5 and GMA-7 programs on the overnight survey of Kantar Media (formerly TNS) among National households on March 4 - 7, 2011: March 4, Friday
Daytime: 1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 20.8% 2. Temptation of Wife (GMA-7) - 20.4% 3. My Lover My Wife (GMA-7) - 16% 4. Nita Negrita (GMA-7) - 14.4% 5. Alakdana (GMA-7) - 12.9% 6. Mana Po (ABS-CBN) - 12.2% 7. One Piece (GMA-7) - 11.7% 8. I Love You So: Autumn's Concerti (ABS-CBN) - 11.4% 9. Sabel (ABS-CBN) - 11.2% 10. Shaman King (GMA-7) - 10.9% Primetime: 1. Mara Clara (ABS-CBN) - 37.1% 2. Mutya (ABS-CBN) - 35.7% 3. Imortal (ABS-CBN) - 27.5% 4. TV Patrol (ABS-CBN) - 26.8% 5. The Baker King (GMA-7) - 20.3% 6. Magic Palayok (GMA-7) - 19.3% 7. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 18.9% 8. Dwarfina (GMA-7) - 17.7% 9. I ♥ You Pare (GMA-7) - 17.1% 10. Green Rose (ABS-CBN) - 15.3% March 5, Saturday
Daytime: 1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 22.4% 2. Wish Ko Lang (GMA-7) - 14.4% 3. Magic Palayok: The Second Serving (GMA-7) - 13.3% 4. Showtime (ABS-CBN) - 12.4% 5. Kapamilya Saturday Blockbuster: The Grudge 2 (ABS-CBN) - 12.1% 6. Happy, Yipee, Yehey! (ABS-CBN) - 10.7% 7. One Piece (GMA-7) / Misteryo (GMA-7) - 9.2% 8. Entertainment Live (ABS-CBN) - 8.6% 9. Maynila (GMA-7) - 8.4% 10. Startalk (GMA-7) - 8.3%
Primetime: 1. Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) - 31.8% 2. Pilipinas Got Talent (ABS-CBN) - 31.3% 3. Buhawi Jack (ABS-CBN) - 19.6% 4. TV Patrol Weekend (ABS-CBN) - 19.2% 5. Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) - 19.1% 6. 24 Oras Weekend (GMA-7) - 17.7% 7. Kapuso Movie Festival: Spirit of the Glass (GMA-7) - 15.5% 8. Imbestigador (GMA-7) - 15.2% 9. Failon Ngayon (ABS-CBN) / Laugh Out Loud (ABS-CBN) - 15% 10. Willing Willie (TV5) - 13.7%
March 6, Sunday
Daytime: 1. Kapuso Movie Sunday Festival: Enteng Kabisote (GMA-7) - 15.4% 2. ASAP Rocks (ABS-CBN) - 14.4% 3. Reel Love Presents Tween Hearts (GMA-7) - 12.1% 4. Party Pilipinas (GMA-7) - 11.8% 5. Kapamilya Sunday Blockbusters: The Shaggy Dog (ABS-CBN) / Your Song Presents Kim (ABS-CBN) - 11.3% 6. The Buzz (ABS-CBN) - 11.2% 7. Matanglawin (ABS-CBN) - 8.3% 8. Showbiz Central (GMA-7) - 8.2% 9. Bakugan Battle Brawlers (GMA-7) / AHA! (GMA-7) - 7.1% 10. Blazing Teens 2 (GMA-7) - 5.9%
Lumuha ang buong bayan sa pagpanaw ni Mara (Kathryn Bernardo) sa nangununang teleserye na “Mara Clara.”
Iba’t iba ang naging reaction ng mga fan sa kakaibang twist na naganap sa kwento ng top-rating series. Isa na rito ang isang 11-year old na batang babae na nagngangalang Pamela na lubos na naapektuhan sa pagkamatay ni Mara.
Naka-paskil sa YouTube ang reaksyon ng bata na naitampok pa sa TV Patrol. Todo iyak si Pamela at sinisigaw pa ang pangalan ng bida habang nasa tapat ng telebisyon. Mahigit sa kalahating milyon na ang hits nito sa YouTube.
Nang tanungin si Kathryn kung ano ang kanyang reaksyon sa libu-libong taga-subaybay ng Mara Clara na todo ang pagkalungkot sa pagpanaw ng kanyang karakter sa teleserye, ang naging sagot ng dalaga ay, “Mas nalaman ko po ngayon ang responsibilidad namin sa mga taga-subaybay ng aming teleserye, lalo na po sa mga bata. Nakakataba po ng puso ang kanilang mainit na pagtanggap.”
Samantala, subaybayan pa ang mga kakaibang pangyayari sa pamilya Del Valle at sa mga David ngayong wala na si Mara.
Patuloy sa pagdu-domina sa ratings ang "Ina ng teleserye." Base sa Kantar Media/TNS, nagtala ito ng 37.1% national rating kumpara sa naghihingalong "I Heart You Pare" na nakakuha lamang ng 17.1% noong March 4.
Tumutok lamang sa mga makabagbag-damdamin pang kaganapan sa “Mara Clara” Lunes hanggang Biyernes, pagkatapos ng “Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin”.
The Supreme Court has recently denied the appeal of ABS-CBN from the decision of the Court of Appeals (CA) which affirmed the decision of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Quezon City that ruled that Mel Tiangco "Mel" and Jay Sonza "Jay" have justifiably and validly rescinded their agreements with ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation (ABS-CBN) and that GMA-7, to which the two talents transferred, had nothing to do with the parting of Mel and Jay from ABS-CBN.
There was no evidence that GMA had enticed Mel and Jay to break away from ABS-CBN because when the two transferred to GMA, they have already rescinded their agreements with ABS-CBN.
Mel and Jay used to host the ABS-CBN's Sunday TV show Mel & Jay. Mel was faulted by ABS-CBN for appearing on a Tide commercial in violation of a circular, which prohibits talents in its radio and news and current affairs from appearing in commercial advertisements without prior written approval of ABS-CBN. Mel Tiangco was suspended without pay from her co-anchor position in TV Patrol and Mel & Jay radio program for three months but not from her Sunday TV program Mel & Jay. Jay irrevocably resigned from Mel & Jay while Mel went on an indefinite leave from further taping of the show.
ABS-CBN sued Mel and Jay for specific performance, injunction and damages before the Regional Trial Court in Quezon City in 1996 to compel them to perform their 1994 agreements and not to appear in any other TV or radio station until 1997.
The QC RTC decided on June 26, 1998 that Mel and Jay had a valid cause to rescind its agreement with ABS-CBN, and that GMA had no part in the broken relationship between the two (2) and ABS-CBN.
ABS-CBN appealed to the CA which affirmed the decision of the RTC. In its decision of August 6, 2003, the CA held that there is no evidence which proved that Mel Tiangco violated the prohibition when she appeared on the Tide commercial. The suspension by ABS-CBN of Mel without sufficient basis in law and evidence constitutes a breach of the contract by ABS-CBN which is substantial and grievous, and justifies the unilateral action by Mel Tiangco in resolving the contract. ABS-CBN had protested that Jay may not base his rescission on that of Mel, but the CA considered the fact that Jay is redundant without Mel, much like the proverbial bow and arrow.
ABS-CBN questioned the CA's decision before the Supreme Court but the latter denied the appeal of ABS-CBN for failure to sufficiently show any reversible error in the decision of the Court of Appeals.
The five-year anniversary of “Us Girls” goes on full speed this Thursday, March 10, as hosts Iya Villania, Chesca Garcia-Kramer, and Angel Aquino learn it, live it, love it in the land of shopping sprees and endless touring, Hongkong!
Catch Iya take on the wildest, most adrenaline-pumping rides at the Ocean Park Adventure and then hunt for the most wonderful finds in Hongkong’s popular temple street night market and ladies’ market.
Chesca, meanwhile, will put her fear of heights aside as she tries out Hongkong’s thrilling cable ride. Watch the beautiful mommy of one take the challenge of climbing her way to the Big Buddha, the largest Buddha statue in the world, on her heels!
Not to be outdone, Angel will tour us inside a historical monastery where we get to observe the different Buddhist rituals. She will also teach us how to prepare a perfect and mouth-watering Peking Duck wrap.
Viewers will surely feel like they’re in Hongkong too as the “Us Girls” trio strut it out in one of Asia’s hottest destinations.
Join Iya Villania, Chesca Garcia-Kramer, and Angel Aquino in the fashion and lifestyle magazine show “Us Girls,” now airing every Thursday, March 10, 9:30pm after "iba-BALITA ni Anthony Taberna" on Studio 23.
