Los
 Angeles, CA – May 5, 2024 – Last night, the 24th Beverly Hills Film 
Festival was set ablaze with the premiere of “Bare-Knuckle,” an 80’s 
throwback Hong Kong-style action film that not only thrilled audiences 
but also broke new ground in cinematic representation. Directed by Alex 
De Ocampo and written by the acclaimed Mark Labella, whose notable 
credits include producing the 2022 international hit Labyu with an 
Accent, the film has already sparked considerable interest and 
anticipation for its full-feature version, with funding firmly in place.
 

Starring
 Kevin Kreider of “Bling Empire” fame, Devon Diep, and led by promising 
newcomers Jordan Mahr and Michael Naizu, “Bare-Knuckle” introduces a 
groundbreaking Asian action lead who is openly gay, challenging 
long-standing Hollywood stereotypes and offering a fresh perspective on 
heroism. The film’s premiere saw a packed house and received rave 
reviews, signaling a strong appetite for diverse and dynamic 
storytelling. 

The
 cast also features memorable cameos from Tommie Mopia in his big-screen
 debut and Celebrity Chef Marvin Aritrangco, adding to the film’s 
unique flair and appeal. “It was an honor seeing Filipinos lead this 
action film with powerful male and female Asian characters,” said Mopia,
 reflecting the sentiment of empowerment and pride that permeates the 
project.


 “At its core, ‘Bareknuckle’ is a mirror reflecting the harsh reality 
faced by AAPI LGBT youth, echoing the struggles that persist in a 
society that is meant to be progressing towards acceptance and 
understanding,” stated Director Alex De Ocampo. This poignant message 
resonates deeply with audiences and critics alike, positioning 
“Bare-Knuckle” as a film that transcends its action-packed sequences to 
touch on significant social issues. 

The
 Beverly Hills Film Festival, known for attracting major stars like 
Sharon Stone, Al Pacino, and Jeff Goldblum, touted “Bare-Knuckle” as one
 of its most well-attended showings, further solidifying its status as a
 must-see film. With the script for the full feature already underway, 
the filmmaking team, led by De Ocampo and Labella, is gearing up for an 
exciting journey ahead, pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks in
 the industry. 

“Bare-Knuckle”
 is not just an action movie; it’s a vital commentary on the challenges 
and triumphs of the AAPI LGBT community, offering both exhilaration and 
enlightenment to its viewers. 

“Bare-Knuckle” is an innovative action film directed by Alex De Ocampo and written by award-winning screenwriter Mark Labella. The film stars Kevin Kreider, Devon Diep, Jordan Mahr, and Michael Naizu, and features cameos from Tommie Mopia and Marvin Aritrangco. Set against the backdrop of the 1980s, the film blends thrilling action with deep social commentary, challenging stereotypes and championing diversity.Los
 Angeles, CA – May 5, 2024 – Last night, the 24th Beverly Hills Film 
Festival was set ablaze with the premiere of “Bare-Knuckle,” an 80’s 
throwback Hong Kong-style action film that not only thrilled audiences 
but also broke new ground in cinematic representation. Directed by Alex 
De Ocampo and written by the acclaimed Mark Labella, whose notable 
credits include producing the 2022 international hit Labyu with an 
Accent, the film has already sparked considerable interest and 
anticipation for its full-feature version, with funding firmly in place.
 Starring
 Kevin Kreider of “Bling Empire” fame, Devon Diep, and led by promising 
newcomers Jordan Mahr and Michael Naizu, “Bare-Knuckle” introduces a 
groundbreaking Asian action lead who is openly gay, challenging 
long-standing Hollywood stereotypes and offering a fresh perspective on 
heroism. The film’s premiere saw a packed house and received rave 
reviews, signaling a strong appetite for diverse and dynamic 
storytelling. The
 cast also features memorable cameos from Tommie Mopia in his big-screen
 debut and Celebrity Chef Marvin Aritrangco, adding to the film’s 
unique flair and appeal. “It was an honor seeing Filipinos lead this 
action film with powerful male and female Asian characters,” said Mopia,
 reflecting the sentiment of empowerment and pride that permeates the 
project.
 “At its core, ‘Bareknuckle’ is a mirror reflecting the harsh reality 
faced by AAPI LGBT youth, echoing the struggles that persist in a 
society that is meant to be progressing towards acceptance and 
understanding,” stated Director Alex De Ocampo. This poignant message 
resonates deeply with audiences and critics alike, positioning 
“Bare-Knuckle” as a film that transcends its action-packed sequences to 
touch on significant social issues. <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/838b984f439d2dbfb2d0676e4fb2f71fa0ca860931c2ef02199f3590ced47763/2.jpg" alt="Image" />The
 Beverly Hills Film Festival, known for attracting major stars like 
Sharon Stone, Al Pacino, and Jeff Goldblum, touted “Bare-Knuckle” as one
 of its most well-attended showings, further solidifying its status as a
 must-see film. With the script for the full feature already underway, 
the filmmaking team, led by De Ocampo and Labella, is gearing up for an 
exciting journey ahead, pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks in
 the industry. “Bare-Knuckle”
 is not just an action movie; it’s a vital commentary on the challenges 
and triumphs of the AAPI LGBT community, offering both exhilaration and 
enlightenment to its viewers.

Film / Drama

Love / Marriage

Advertising / Promotion / PR

International activity

Show Business

“Bare-Knuckle” is an innovative action film directed by Alex De Ocampo and written by award-winning screenwriter Mark Labella. The film stars Kevin Kreider, Devon Diep, Jordan Mahr, and Michael Naizu, and features cameos from Tommie Mopia and Marvin Aritrangco. Set against the backdrop of the 1980s, the film blends thrilling action with deep social commentary, challenging stereotypes and championing diversity.

Bare-Knuckle Shatters Stereotypes with Groundbreaking Premiere at Beverly Hills Film Festival

[Manila, Philippines] – April 8, 2024 – <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theelleraffeph">The ElleRaffe's</a> recent production of "<a href="https://theancientprodigal.com/">The Ancient Prodigal</a>" has captivated audiences and garnered widespread critical acclaim.&nbsp; Exploring themes of faith, redemption, and the internal conflicts of good and evil, this one-act play delivered a thought-provoking narrative and powerful performances.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sponsors Key to the Production's Success

The ElleRaffe extends heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors:

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/artepinturagallery">Artepintura Gallery</a>: Their beautiful venue provided the perfect setting for this intimate and powerful play. Their mission as an art haven for music, painting, crafts, and Filipino culture enthusiasts aligns beautifully with our artistic vision.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/icanadafsi">iCanada Future Solutions Inc.</a>: Their generous co-production support was integral to bringing this important work to the stage. Their commitment to connecting with broad audiences reflects the play's exploration of universal themes of education and religion.

Written and directed by the brilliant <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MRSpeaksOfficial">Manu Respall</a>, "The Ancient Prodigal" delves into profound questions about faith, identity, and the human condition. Set in an unspecified time and place, the play depicts a compelling encounter between a risen Jesus Christ and a disillusioned Lucifer. Their conversation exposes Lucifer’s vulnerabilities and frustrations while revealing Jesus’ unwavering grace and compassion. Jesus forgives Lucifer, calling him the "Ancient Prodigal Son."

Theater veteran <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jetboyboogie/">Jamie Wilson</a> delivered a critically acclaimed performance as Jesus Christ. Reviewers noted, "Wilson completely commanded the stage...in a voice so calming, compassionate, and authoritative, just as we would expect from the Son of God."&nbsp; This portrayal has been hailed as one of the year's best stage performances.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/zach.pracale.12">Zach Pracale</a>'s debut as Lucifer was a stunning revelation. Matching Wilson's intensity, he flawlessly delivered complex dialogue with an otherworldly cadence befitting his character's unique perspective. The subtle yet powerful imagery of his severed wings was an unforgettable touch.

The ElleRaffe and iCanada Future Solutions Inc.

"The Ancient Prodigal" underscores the power of theater to explore complex themes relevant to a diverse audience. This aligns with iCanada Future Solutions’ desire to connect deeply with its audience. As a company, iCanada FSI values open dialogue and the exploration of diverse perspectives, including those concerning education and religion.

Empathy and understanding: Exploring personal struggles, dreams, family dynamics, and beliefs, the play allows us to step into the shoes of Alagang iCanada individuals, promoting a deeper connection with their experiences.

Reflects Real-Life Complexities: The subjective, personal themes explored in the play resonate with the wide range of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives found within iCanada's diverse audience.

Opens Important Conversations: By addressing topics like education and religion, the play encourages important dialogue and reflection on issues that shape our lives.

Connects with Our Inner 'Prodigal': The play's themes of redemption and self-discovery resonate with everyone, reminding us of our potential for understanding and acceptance, even when we feel lost.

"[...] the play is profoundly personal, aiming to connect with the prodigal within each of us - that hidden aspect of ourselves we often keep concealed from others."

"Jamie Wilson... As early as now, I am already considering this as one of the best acting performances in a one-act play this year."

"The big surprise was model Zach Pracale... truly amazing achievement for this theater neophyte..."

"This play is purposefully thought-provoking and faith-challenging..." – Fred Hawson, "Fred Said" blog.

The play's original theme song, "The Awakened Soul," written, composed, and beautifully sung by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/musichaven_ph/">Andrea Martin</a> (arranged by Kevin Pangilinan and Johnson Jaducana) underscores the central message of finding one's way back to grace.

We extend special thanks to Toots Tolentino for supporting our show and to the press for their thoughtful reviews.&nbsp; Your support for original Filipino concepts means the world to us.

The ElleRaffe is excited to announce its upcoming play, scheduled for late June, featuring the song by Wilfredo Manganop. Stay tuned for more details!

The ElleRaffe's production of "The Ancient Prodigal" has been met with critical and audience praise for its exploration of faith, redemption, and the complexities of good and evil. Playwright and director Manu Respall's work delves into a profound encounter between Jesus Christ and Lucifer. The production was made possible with generous support from sponsors ArtePintura and iCanada Future Solutions Inc.[Manila, Philippines] – April 8, 2024 – <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theelleraffeph">The ElleRaffe's</a> recent production of "<a href="https://theancientprodigal.com/">The Ancient Prodigal</a>" has captivated audiences and garnered widespread critical acclaim.&nbsp; Exploring themes of faith, redemption, and the internal conflicts of good and evil, this one-act play delivered a thought-provoking narrative and powerful performances.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/d60b621c9b14cd3778d3bc8573a6cfb089cb2f4b1d04e6bca566ecb099175e88/the%20ancient%20prodigal.webp" alt="From left: Jamie Wilson (Jesus Christ) and Zach Pracale (Lucifer). The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by Jude Bautista." />Sponsors Key to the Production's Success <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/fbdd9e669cb029a7eb52afefe5f3837862486efb2c5d5cd42fed3f7aa754dc49/IMG_20240406_160947.JPG" alt="(Left to right) Ms. Flor of ArtePintura Gallery, Lucky of iCanada FSI, Jamie Wilson (Jesus Christ), Manu Respall (Writer / Director) and Zach Pracale (Lucifer).&nbsp;The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by The ElleRaffe." />The ElleRaffe extends heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/artepinturagallery">Artepintura Gallery</a>: Their beautiful venue provided the perfect setting for this intimate and powerful play. Their mission as an art haven for music, painting, crafts, and Filipino culture enthusiasts aligns beautifully with our artistic vision. <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/887efe6c68cc6b45070bc7ed8a4f51a0498a471aab956c9fe0c4e0e4b6c43517/viber_image_2024-04-09_02-43-17-535.jpg" alt="&nbsp;The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by The ElleRaffe." /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/icanadafsi">iCanada Future Solutions Inc.</a>: Their generous co-production support was integral to bringing this important work to the stage. Their commitment to connecting with broad audiences reflects the play's exploration of universal themes of education and religion. <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/4dbd63a696a0d46ddf496dbde35e4d4b4f8d61cdd56f144dac39e08aec11f2e9/icanada.jpg" alt="iCanada FSI team with Toots Tolentino (Center).&nbsp;The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by The ElleRaffe." />Exploring Complex ThemesWritten and directed by the brilliant <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MRSpeaksOfficial">Manu Respall</a>, "The Ancient Prodigal" delves into profound questions about faith, identity, and the human condition. Set in an unspecified time and place, the play depicts a compelling encounter between a risen Jesus Christ and a disillusioned Lucifer. Their conversation exposes Lucifer’s vulnerabilities and frustrations while revealing Jesus’ unwavering grace and compassion. Jesus forgives Lucifer, calling him the "Ancient Prodigal Son."<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/2f99980505500b4073bfb02d4fbf43b3f490a9f341bf6520a28951a978792d68/viber_image_2024-04-08_10-26-10-122.jpg" alt="During Q &amp;A with the Press.&nbsp;The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by The ElleRaffe." />Powerful PerformancesTheater veteran <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jetboyboogie/">Jamie Wilson</a> delivered a critically acclaimed performance as Jesus Christ. Reviewers noted, "Wilson completely commanded the stage...in a voice so calming, compassionate, and authoritative, just as we would expect from the Son of God."&nbsp; This portrayal has been hailed as one of the year's best stage performances. <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/9c576b6a5251048f930b58d077fe0ba824eed2b972fda9cfe1d2713ca9342125/jamie.webp" alt="Jamie Wilson (Jesus Christ); The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by Jude Bautista." /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/zach.pracale.12">Zach Pracale</a>'s debut as Lucifer was a stunning revelation. Matching Wilson's intensity, he flawlessly delivered complex dialogue with an otherworldly cadence befitting his character's unique perspective. The subtle yet powerful imagery of his severed wings was an unforgettable touch.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/c912bb045120f5ed96ba670360fa08e2100ca42a6bf79d73a932475cb7fd2543/zach.webp" alt="Zach Pracale (Lucifer); The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by Jude Bautista." />The ElleRaffe and iCanada Future Solutions Inc."The Ancient Prodigal" underscores the power of theater to explore complex themes relevant to a diverse audience. This aligns with iCanada Future Solutions’ desire to connect deeply with its audience. As a company, iCanada FSI values open dialogue and the exploration of diverse perspectives, including those concerning education and religion.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/91d4008b852d772f0287b26343b92321992ae3ad9e112ba82be33293e921bf6d/viber_image_2024-04-07_13-23-42-727.jpg" alt="&nbsp;The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by The ElleRaffe." />The play fosters:Empathy and understanding: Exploring personal struggles, dreams, family dynamics, and beliefs, the play allows us to step into the shoes of Alagang iCanada individuals, promoting a deeper connection with their experiences.Reflects Real-Life Complexities: The subjective, personal themes explored in the play resonate with the wide range of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives found within iCanada's diverse audience.Opens Important Conversations: By addressing topics like education and religion, the play encourages important dialogue and reflection on issues that shape our lives.Connects with Our Inner 'Prodigal': The play's themes of redemption and self-discovery resonate with everyone, reminding us of our potential for understanding and acceptance, even when we feel lost.Highlights from the Reviews<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/15e37913e4c7d21596367a4cc4a99bf0aed800777364ad3fc16f05aed5345a8a/7719-grp.webp" alt="From left: Jamie Wilson (Jesus Christ), West Stewart, Jon Santos and Director and playwright Manu Respall. The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by Jude Bautista." />"[...] the play is profoundly personal, aiming to connect with the prodigal within each of us - that hidden aspect of ourselves we often keep concealed from others."<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/25e4c34cb111d144d851c74ab07806d82b85a1dc2ee6630603db747452863610/IMG_20240406_162212.JPG" alt="The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by The ElleRaffe.&nbsp;" />"Jamie Wilson... As early as now, I am already considering this as one of the best acting performances in a one-act play this year." <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/9e1aa47b638e5c6b9b797cba0fcb30bef4557489c8cb5527264f6cad102fa7fb/IMG_20240406_143132.JPG" alt="The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by The ElleRaffe.&nbsp;" />"The big surprise was model Zach Pracale... truly amazing achievement for this theater neophyte..."<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/ab7a7b311b43284c56e4190ff5ea4a269bfb2f483fb100eb2fb466a2f469c32a/IMG_20240406_165533.JPG" alt="The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by The ElleRaffe.&nbsp;" />"This play is purposefully thought-provoking and faith-challenging..." – Fred Hawson, "Fred Said" blog.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/ad80ceed7e05cd53f4591804fbcb28a326ef345f5093749ff4168c05acc02ef4/viber_image_2024-04-07_22-46-25-897.jpg" alt="The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by The ElleRaffe.&nbsp;" />The Awakened SoulThe play's original theme song, "The Awakened Soul," written, composed, and beautifully sung by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/musichaven_ph/">Andrea Martin</a> (arranged by Kevin Pangilinan and Johnson Jaducana) underscores the central message of finding one's way back to grace.Special ThanksWe extend special thanks to Toots Tolentino for supporting our show and to the press for their thoughtful reviews.&nbsp; Your support for original Filipino concepts means the world to us.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/07514c60d499d9379711a60d7141956b5e70fc1791a28f46785fd080aeefbf36/IMG_20240406_165840.JPG" alt="Manu Respall (left) and Toots Tolentino (right).&nbsp;The ANCIENT PRODIGAL premiered at Arte Pintura x Paco Creative Space, Ermita, Manila April 6, 2024. Photo by The ElleRaffe." />Stay Tuned!The ElleRaffe is excited to announce its upcoming play, scheduled for late June, featuring the song by Wilfredo Manganop. Stay tuned for more details!

Marketing / Research

Art Culture

Event

The ElleRaffe's production of "The Ancient Prodigal" has been met with critical and audience praise for its exploration of faith, redemption, and the complexities of good and evil. Playwright and director Manu Respall's work delves into a profound encounter between Jesus Christ and Lucifer.  The production was made possible with generous support from sponsors ArtePintura and iCanada Future Solutions Inc.

The ElleRaffe's "The Ancient Prodigal" Receives Critical Acclaim

GOLDEN Globe winner&nbsp;Patricia Clarkson&nbsp;takes the audience on a thrilling roller coaster ride through the high-stakes world of spies in&nbsp;Gray, streaming now in the Philippines on Lionsgate Play.

The gripping series delves into a maze of espionage, where passion, deceit, the pursuit of truth, and the delicate fragility of life intersect in a captivating manner.

The captivating series centers around CIA agent Cornelia Gray, portrayed by Oscar nominee, Emmy and Golden Globe winner Patricia Clarkson. After twenty years in hiding due to suspicions of treason, she reenters her former life, only to uncover a new mole within her spy network, endangering her and her allies.

Gray&nbsp;is based on an original concept by&nbsp;David Baldacci&nbsp;(Absolute Power), a renowned author with over 40 national and international bestsellers. Bringing this tale to life are BAFTA nominee writer&nbsp;John J. McLaughlin&nbsp;(Point Pleasant;&nbsp;Black Swan) and award-winning director&nbsp;Ruba Nadda&nbsp;(Manifest;&nbsp;Magnum P.I.).

Lionsgate Play exclusively premieres&nbsp;Gray&nbsp;in the Philippines, marking the series’ first release on the streaming service in any market. Tune in to Lionsgate Play on PLDT Home to catch more exciting premieres.

<h1>Espionage drama ‘Gray’ makes PH premiere on Lionsgate Play</h1>GOLDEN Globe winner&nbsp;Patricia Clarkson&nbsp;takes the audience on a thrilling roller coaster ride through the high-stakes world of spies in&nbsp;Gray, streaming now in the Philippines on Lionsgate Play.The gripping series delves into a maze of espionage, where passion, deceit, the pursuit of truth, and the delicate fragility of life intersect in a captivating manner.The captivating series centers around CIA agent Cornelia Gray, portrayed by Oscar nominee, Emmy and Golden Globe winner Patricia Clarkson. After twenty years in hiding due to suspicions of treason, she reenters her former life, only to uncover a new mole within her spy network, endangering her and her allies.Gray&nbsp;is based on an original concept by&nbsp;David Baldacci&nbsp;(Absolute Power), a renowned author with over 40 national and international bestsellers. Bringing this tale to life are BAFTA nominee writer&nbsp;John J. McLaughlin&nbsp;(Point Pleasant;&nbsp;Black Swan) and award-winning director&nbsp;Ruba Nadda&nbsp;(Manifest;&nbsp;Magnum P.I.).Lionsgate Play exclusively premieres&nbsp;Gray&nbsp;in the Philippines, marking the series’ first release on the streaming service in any market. Tune in to Lionsgate Play on PLDT Home to catch more exciting premieres.

System / Website / Application development

Espionage drama ‘Gray’ makes PH premiere on Lionsgate Play

LOS ANGELES, United States - Hollywood's pink wave has yet to crest as Warner Bros.' "Barbie" dominated for a third straight weekend in North American theaters, pushing the film's global haul past $1 billion in a first for a woman director, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations said Sunday.

The Greta Gerwig-directed blockbuster, starring Margot Robbie as iconic doll Barbie and Ryan Gosling as boyfriend Ken, earned a projected $53 million for the Friday-through-Sunday period, for a domestic total of $459 million and a whopping $1.03 billion worldwide.

Not only has "Barbie" thus become the first movie directed solely by a woman to pass the $1 billion mark, but it did so faster than any film -- including those directed by men -- in Warner Bros.' 100-year history, executives there said.

Jeff Goldstein, Warner Bros. President of Domestic Distribution, and Andrew Cripps, President of International Distribution, for Warner Bros. Pictures, said: "As distribution chiefs, we’re not often rendered speechless by a film’s performance, but Barbillion has blown even our most optimistic predictions out of the water."

"This is a watershed moment for ‘Barbie,’ and no one but Greta Gerwig could have brought this cross-generational icon and her world to life in such a funny, emotional and entertaining story, one that is resonating with all four quadrants of moviegoers and literally turning the entire world pink. Long lines and repeat viewings prove that movies are back in a big, big way, and we look forward to seeing just how far ‘Barbie’ can go in the real world.”

Added Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy, Co-Chairs &amp; CEOs of Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group, “A massive achievement like this is possible when you have an incredible filmmaking team, with cast and crew coming together to create a truly special moviegoing experience. Along with our partners at Mattel, and with the support of the entire Warner Bros. Discovery family, we are thrilled that audiences the world over are embracing the ‘Barbie’ movie in such a profound way."

"With ‘Barbie’ becoming the biggest film at the summer box office, Greta now joins an elite group of writer/directors whose singular vision has generated $1 billion at the global box office, a milestone that is testament to her brilliance and to her commitment to deliver a movie that Barbie fans of every age want to see on the big screen.”

The film, which earlier scored the biggest opening weekend of the year, "has captured the imagination of moviegoers around the world and the results are incredibly impressive," analyst Paul Dergarabedian of Comscore said.

Universal's "Oppenheimer," the dark historical drama that has placed second to "Barbie" in their debut weeks, was bumped by Warner Bros. newcomer "Meg 2: The Trench," an action film featuring gargantuan prehistoric sharks.

"Meg 2" pulled in $30 million for the weekend, while Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer" earned $28.7 million to push its global total to $552 million.

That total made the story about the creation of the atomic bomb the all-time top grossing World War II film, ahead of Nolan's own "Dunkirk" ($527 million) and Steven Spielberg’s "Saving Private Ryan" ($482 million), not adjusted for inflation, according to Hollywood Reporter.

Fourth place for the weekend went to "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem," the latest in the franchise about a team of reptilian heroes in a half shell. The Paramount animated comedy, featuring the voices of Jackie Chan and Post Malone, brought in $28 million.

Disney release "Haunted Mansion" slid two spots to fifth, with the lavishly produced kid-centric film -- starring LaKeith Stanfield, Tiffany Haddish and Owen Wilson -- earning $8.9 million.

Holding its own in sixth was the independent "Sound of Freedom," from Santa Fe Films and Angel Studios, at $7 million. The low-budget action thriller has sparked controversy, with critics saying its story about child sex trafficking plays into Qanon conspiracy theories.

All in all, it was an exceptional weekend for Hollywood, with the top four films all raking in $28 million or more.

Not only did the top films come close to doubling the total from the same weekend last year, they surpassed the corresponding pre-pandemic weekend in 2019, analysts said.

Ken might even have said -- a line Ryan Gosling reportedly ad libbed during the filming of "Barbie" -- that the weekend was "Sublime!"

"Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part 1" ($6.4 million)

"Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" ($1.5 million)

<h1>'Barbie' races past $1 billion at the box office, first for solo woman director</h1>LOS ANGELES, United States - Hollywood's pink wave has yet to crest as Warner Bros.' "Barbie" dominated for a third straight weekend in North American theaters, pushing the film's global haul past $1 billion in a first for a woman director, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations said Sunday.The Greta Gerwig-directed blockbuster, starring Margot Robbie as iconic doll Barbie and Ryan Gosling as boyfriend Ken, earned a projected $53 million for the Friday-through-Sunday period, for a domestic total of $459 million and a whopping $1.03 billion worldwide.Not only has "Barbie" thus become the first movie directed solely by a woman to pass the $1 billion mark, but it did so faster than any film -- including those directed by men -- in Warner Bros.' 100-year history, executives there said.Jeff Goldstein, Warner Bros. President of Domestic Distribution, and Andrew Cripps, President of International Distribution, for Warner Bros. Pictures, said: "As distribution chiefs, we’re not often rendered speechless by a film’s performance, but Barbillion has blown even our most optimistic predictions out of the water.""This is a watershed moment for ‘Barbie,’ and no one but Greta Gerwig could have brought this cross-generational icon and her world to life in such a funny, emotional and entertaining story, one that is resonating with all four quadrants of moviegoers and literally turning the entire world pink. Long lines and repeat viewings prove that movies are back in a big, big way, and we look forward to seeing just how far ‘Barbie’ can go in the real world.”Added Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy, Co-Chairs &amp; CEOs of Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group, “A massive achievement like this is possible when you have an incredible filmmaking team, with cast and crew coming together to create a truly special moviegoing experience. Along with our partners at Mattel, and with the support of the entire Warner Bros. Discovery family, we are thrilled that audiences the world over are embracing the ‘Barbie’ movie in such a profound way.""With ‘Barbie’ becoming the biggest film at the summer box office, Greta now joins an elite group of writer/directors whose singular vision has generated $1 billion at the global box office, a milestone that is testament to her brilliance and to her commitment to deliver a movie that Barbie fans of every age want to see on the big screen.”The film, which earlier scored the biggest opening weekend of the year, "has captured the imagination of moviegoers around the world and the results are incredibly impressive," analyst Paul Dergarabedian of Comscore said.Universal's "Oppenheimer," the dark historical drama that has placed second to "Barbie" in their debut weeks, was bumped by Warner Bros. newcomer "Meg 2: The Trench," an action film featuring gargantuan prehistoric sharks."Meg 2" pulled in $30 million for the weekend, while Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer" earned $28.7 million to push its global total to $552 million.That total made the story about the creation of the atomic bomb the all-time top grossing World War II film, ahead of Nolan's own "Dunkirk" ($527 million) and Steven Spielberg’s "Saving Private Ryan" ($482 million), not adjusted for inflation, according to Hollywood Reporter.Fourth place for the weekend went to "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem," the latest in the franchise about a team of reptilian heroes in a half shell. The Paramount animated comedy, featuring the voices of Jackie Chan and Post Malone, brought in $28 million.Disney release "Haunted Mansion" slid two spots to fifth, with the lavishly produced kid-centric film -- starring LaKeith Stanfield, Tiffany Haddish and Owen Wilson -- earning $8.9 million.Holding its own in sixth was the independent "Sound of Freedom," from Santa Fe Films and Angel Studios, at $7 million. The low-budget action thriller has sparked controversy, with critics saying its story about child sex trafficking plays into Qanon conspiracy theories.All in all, it was an exceptional weekend for Hollywood, with the top four films all raking in $28 million or more.Not only did the top films come close to doubling the total from the same weekend last year, they surpassed the corresponding pre-pandemic weekend in 2019, analysts said.Ken might even have said -- a line Ryan Gosling reportedly ad libbed during the filming of "Barbie" -- that the weekend was "Sublime!"Rounding out the top 10 were:"Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part 1" ($6.4 million)"Talk to Me" ($6.2 million)"Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" ($1.5 million)"Elemental" ($1.2 million)

'Barbie' races past $1 billion at the box office, first for solo woman director

NEW YORK - Warner Bros. in the United States has apologized over a social media controversy involving the official promoter of its blockbuster movie "Barbie" cheerfully engaging with user posts linking the film's main character to atomic bomb-related imagery inspired by the biopic "Oppenheimer" released at the same time.

Following the Japanese distributor's criticism on Monday of its U.S. counterpart, Warner Bros. Film Group reportedly said in a statement to multiple media outlets, "Warner Brothers regrets its recent insensitive social media engagement. The studio offers a sincere apology."

Warner Bros. Japan LLC had expressed regret over the U.S. headquarters' Barbie Movie account's responses to some social media posts, apparently referring to its positive replies to mashups of the bubbly satire and the film about Robert Oppenheimer, a physicist who led the project of making atomic bombs.

The two films have topped the U.S. box office since they came out on July 21. Seizing on the simultaneous release of the contrasting films, media have referred to the two collectively as "Barbenheimer" and a host of memes have sprouted up online.

One such image appears to depict the actors who portray Barbie and Oppenheimer posing happily in front of an apocalyptic blast that some in Japan have said resembles the real destruction of the U.S. atomic bombs dropped at the closing stage of World War II.

The Barbie Movie account replied to the viral post, saying, "It's going to be a summer to remember" with an emoji of a face blowing a kiss.

Another user apparently replaced the "Barbie" star's hair with a mushroom cloud in a separate image. The film's official account said, "This Ken is a stylist," referring to the name of Barbie's boyfriend.

"Barbie" is slated for release in Japan on Aug. 11, while there is no information about whether "Oppenheimer" will hit theaters in the country.

The United States dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945, causing an estimated 210,000 deaths by the end of the year, mostly among civilians, according to the cities.

Many U.S. polls have indicated that some in the country believe the nuclear attacks on Japan were necessary to end the war.

<h1>Warner Bros. apologizes over 'Barbenheimer' social media flap</h1>NEW YORK - Warner Bros. in the United States has apologized over a social media controversy involving the official promoter of its blockbuster movie "Barbie" cheerfully engaging with user posts linking the film's main character to atomic bomb-related imagery inspired by the biopic "Oppenheimer" released at the same time.Following the Japanese distributor's criticism on Monday of its U.S. counterpart, Warner Bros. Film Group reportedly said in a statement to multiple media outlets, "Warner Brothers regrets its recent insensitive social media engagement. The studio offers a sincere apology."Warner Bros. Japan LLC had expressed regret over the U.S. headquarters' Barbie Movie account's responses to some social media posts, apparently referring to its positive replies to mashups of the bubbly satire and the film about Robert Oppenheimer, a physicist who led the project of making atomic bombs.<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/dbd8fbff472f07a651df6a9fb64b8d8d0616d201436eea94cf7727b50f918d99/20230722-oppenheimer_epa.webp" alt="Image"/>The two films have topped the U.S. box office since they came out on July 21. Seizing on the simultaneous release of the contrasting films, media have referred to the two collectively as "Barbenheimer" and a host of memes have sprouted up online.One such image appears to depict the actors who portray Barbie and Oppenheimer posing happily in front of an apocalyptic blast that some in Japan have said resembles the real destruction of the U.S. atomic bombs dropped at the closing stage of World War II.The Barbie Movie account replied to the viral post, saying, "It's going to be a summer to remember" with an emoji of a face blowing a kiss.Another user apparently replaced the "Barbie" star's hair with a mushroom cloud in a separate image. The film's official account said, "This Ken is a stylist," referring to the name of Barbie's boyfriend."Barbie" is slated for release in Japan on Aug. 11, while there is no information about whether "Oppenheimer" will hit theaters in the country.The United States dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945, causing an estimated 210,000 deaths by the end of the year, mostly among civilians, according to the cities.Many U.S. polls have indicated that some in the country believe the nuclear attacks on Japan were necessary to end the war.

Warner Bros. apologizes over 'Barbenheimer' social media flap

LOS ANGELES - Warner Bros.' blockbuster "Barbie" earned an estimated $93 million in North American theaters this weekend as it continued "rolling down a hill of cash," industry watcher Exhibitor Relations reported Sunday.

Taken together with Universal's dark biopic "Oppenheimer," which took in a mighty $46.2 million in its own second weekend out, the two films provided a much-needed "Barbenheimer" boost during a middling Hollywood summer.

"July would have been a lukewarm month, but then 'Barbie' and 'Oppenheimer' arrived, moviegoing exploded, and within one week, July caught up to its pre-pandemic average," said analyst David A. Gross of Franchise Entertainment Research.

Last weekend, "Barbie" scored the biggest opening weekend of the year, at $80.5 million, showing eyebrow-raising appeal for a movie based on a small plastic doll living in a perfect pink world.

With Margot Robbie as "Barbie" and Ryan Gosling as boyfriend "Ken," the Greta Gerwig film has now generated $351.4 million in North American ticket sales, along with $423 million abroad, likely setting it on track to be the next billion-dollar flick.

"Oppenheimer" also showed exceptional strength for a historical drama, with its second-weekend result -- like that of "Barbie" -- among the best in box-office history, said analyst Paul Dergarabedian. The story of the creation of America's atomic bomb has now earned $174.1 million domestically and $226 million abroad.

In third for the weekend was a new Disney release, "Haunted Mansion," at $24.2 million. Disney spent $150 million to produce the kid-centric film so it has a way to go to reach profitability, according to Variety. The movie stars LaKeith Stanfield, Tiffany Haddish and Owen Wilson.

Fourth spot went to the independent "Sound of Freedom," from Santa Fe Films and Angel Studios, at $12.4 million. The low-budget action thriller has sparked controversy, with critics saying its story about child sex trafficking plays into Qanon conspiracy theories.

And hanging steady at fifth was Paramount's "Mission: Impossible -- Dead Reckoning Part One." This latest in the popular Tom Cruise series took in $10.7 million, meaning all of the top five films scored in the double-digit millions.

"Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" ($4 million)

"Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" ($1.4 million)

<h1>'Barbie' stays atop 'hill of cash' in N.America theaters</h1>LOS ANGELES - Warner Bros.' blockbuster "Barbie" earned an estimated $93 million in North American theaters this weekend as it continued "rolling down a hill of cash," industry watcher Exhibitor Relations reported Sunday.Taken together with Universal's dark biopic "Oppenheimer," which took in a mighty $46.2 million in its own second weekend out, the two films provided a much-needed "Barbenheimer" boost during a middling Hollywood summer."July would have been a lukewarm month, but then 'Barbie' and 'Oppenheimer' arrived, moviegoing exploded, and within one week, July caught up to its pre-pandemic average," said analyst David A. Gross of Franchise Entertainment Research.Last weekend, "Barbie" scored the biggest opening weekend of the year, at $80.5 million, showing eyebrow-raising appeal for a movie based on a small plastic doll living in a perfect pink world.With Margot Robbie as "Barbie" and Ryan Gosling as boyfriend "Ken," the Greta Gerwig film has now generated $351.4 million in North American ticket sales, along with $423 million abroad, likely setting it on track to be the next billion-dollar flick."Oppenheimer" also showed exceptional strength for a historical drama, with its second-weekend result -- like that of "Barbie" -- among the best in box-office history, said analyst Paul Dergarabedian. The story of the creation of America's atomic bomb has now earned $174.1 million domestically and $226 million abroad.In third for the weekend was a new Disney release, "Haunted Mansion," at $24.2 million. Disney spent $150 million to produce the kid-centric film so it has a way to go to reach profitability, according to Variety. The movie stars LaKeith Stanfield, Tiffany Haddish and Owen Wilson.Fourth spot went to the independent "Sound of Freedom," from Santa Fe Films and Angel Studios, at $12.4 million. The low-budget action thriller has sparked controversy, with critics saying its story about child sex trafficking plays into Qanon conspiracy theories.And hanging steady at fifth was Paramount's "Mission: Impossible -- Dead Reckoning Part One." This latest in the popular Tom Cruise series took in $10.7 million, meaning all of the top five films scored in the double-digit millions.Rounding out the top 10 were:"Talk to Me" ($10 million)"Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" ($4 million)"Elemental" ($3.4 million)"Insidious: The Red Door" ($3.2 million)"Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" ($1.4 million)

'Barbie' stays atop 'hill of cash' in N.America theaters

BURBANK, United States—From princess costumes and cute character sketches to century-old toys, photos and documents, Disney’s backrooms and warehouses are stacked to the rafters with “hundreds of millions” of filmmaking treasures, its archivists say.

In celebration of the company’s upcoming centennial—officially marked on Oct. 16—Disney recently allowed a glimpse into its vaults, hosting a media visit to its film studio lot in Burbank, near Los Angeles.

“This is what we call the tip of the iceberg,” said Walt Disney Archives director Becky Cline, before presenting artifacts ranging from the studio’s founding legal document and the first Mickey Mouse cartoon script to costumes from the latest Marvel films.

Many more items are currently out touring the world, with “Disney100: The Exhibition” on display simultaneously in Munich and Philadelphia. More locations including London will be added soon.

Paris is currently hosting an immersive, multi-sensory experience, centered around the friendships between Disney’s iconic characters.

But a major portion of the studio’s archives is in “five or six” warehouses “scattered around” the Los Angeles area, including larger items such as former theme park ride vehicles and movie props, said archivist Nicole Carroll.

“We make so much stuff, we’re always looking for more space!” she said.

Founded in 1970, the 30-strong team of archivists aim to keep a “small representation” of everything, Carroll explained.

For example, if a recently wrapped movie has 250 lavish costumes, including four or five for each of the heroes, the archive team will select “a couple of iconic looks from each character” for posterity.

Even with this selective approach, every time a film wraps, “we could be adding hundreds of things” to the archive, said Carroll.

Among the studio’s most treasured memorabilia are the giant storybooks featured at the start of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and “Sleeping Beauty,” and a crystal slipper from the live action version of Cinderella.

Some items end up serving a practical purpose—an original snow globe from 1964’s “Mary Poppins” was pulled from the archive and replicated by filmmakers creating the 2018 sequel.

Factor in photo and document archives containing first-edition cartoons, tickets to Disneyland’s 1955 opening, plus corporate reports and press clippings, and the total collection extends to “hundreds of millions” of items, said Cline.

But perhaps the most hallowed space for Disney obsessives is located right on the Burbank lot—founder Walt Disney’s personal offices, from which he managed his entertainment empire from 1940 until his death in 1966.

A painstaking inventory of every item he left behind was taken, right down to the exact resting angle of his books, including volumes on Nikola Tesla, Salvador Dali and trains.

Just under a decade ago, those offices were restored by Walt Disney Archives employees.

They now contain everything from unfinished plans for theme parks to figurines of beloved fairy tale characters.

Just a few tour groups are admitted each year to this space, considered sacred by cognoscenti of a company renowned for the almost unparalleled obsession of its fandom.

“People come in and cry at this amazing human,”&nbsp;said tour guide Laura Sanchez.

“They get to walk in the past.”&nbsp;

<h1>Filmmaking treasures in ‘hundreds of millions’: Disney gives glimpse of vast archive for centennial celebrations </h1>BURBANK, United States—From princess costumes and cute character sketches to century-old toys, photos and documents, Disney’s backrooms and warehouses are stacked to the rafters with “hundreds of millions” of filmmaking treasures, its archivists say.In celebration of the company’s upcoming centennial—officially marked on Oct. 16—Disney recently allowed a glimpse into its vaults, hosting a media visit to its film studio lot in Burbank, near Los Angeles.“This is what we call the tip of the iceberg,” said Walt Disney Archives director Becky Cline, before presenting artifacts ranging from the studio’s founding legal document and the first Mickey Mouse cartoon script to costumes from the latest Marvel films.Many more items are currently out touring the world, with “Disney100: The Exhibition” on display simultaneously in Munich and Philadelphia. More locations including London will be added soon.Paris is currently hosting an immersive, multi-sensory experience, centered around the friendships between Disney’s iconic characters.But a major portion of the studio’s archives is in “five or six” warehouses “scattered around” the Los Angeles area, including larger items such as former theme park ride vehicles and movie props, said archivist Nicole Carroll.“We make so much stuff, we’re always looking for more space!” she said.Founded in 1970, the 30-strong team of archivists aim to keep a “small representation” of everything, Carroll explained.For example, if a recently wrapped movie has 250 lavish costumes, including four or five for each of the heroes, the archive team will select “a couple of iconic looks from each character” for posterity.Even with this selective approach, every time a film wraps, “we could be adding hundreds of things” to the archive, said Carroll.‘Cry’Among the studio’s most treasured memorabilia are the giant storybooks featured at the start of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and “Sleeping Beauty,” and a crystal slipper from the live action version of Cinderella.Some items end up serving a practical purpose—an original snow globe from 1964’s “Mary Poppins” was pulled from the archive and replicated by filmmakers creating the 2018 sequel.Factor in photo and document archives containing first-edition cartoons, tickets to Disneyland’s 1955 opening, plus corporate reports and press clippings, and the total collection extends to “hundreds of millions” of items, said Cline.But perhaps the most hallowed space for Disney obsessives is located right on the Burbank lot—founder Walt Disney’s personal offices, from which he managed his entertainment empire from 1940 until his death in 1966.A painstaking inventory of every item he left behind was taken, right down to the exact resting angle of his books, including volumes on Nikola Tesla, Salvador Dali and trains.Just under a decade ago, those offices were restored by Walt Disney Archives employees.They now contain everything from unfinished plans for theme parks to figurines of beloved fairy tale characters.And, of course, several Oscars.Just a few tour groups are admitted each year to this space, considered sacred by cognoscenti of a company renowned for the almost unparalleled obsession of its fandom.“People come in and cry at this amazing human,”&nbsp;said tour guide Laura Sanchez.“They get to walk in the past.”&nbsp;

Filmmaking treasures in ‘hundreds of millions’: Disney gives glimpse of vast archive for centennial celebrations  

One thing Park Eun-bin learned from her mother is to treat every day as a “blessing.” “Don’t wait for your birthday,” she was told, “just think that every day is your birthday.”

As such, the acclaimed South Korean actress believes that each moment is to be cherished, even something as simple as talking to show biz reporters at a press conference organized by Wilbros Live and the wellness brand Wide International.

But if she were to pick one career highlight, it would be none other than winning the “Daesang” (Grand Prize) for television at this year’s prestigious Baeksang Arts Awards, which recognizes excellence in film, television and theater.

“I have always dreamed of winning a Daesang, that grand prize … so I’m very happy I was able to achieve my goal,” said Eun-bin, who captured people’s hearts all over the globe with her performance in the series, “Extraordinary Attorney Woo.”

The 30-year-old star played Woo Young-woo, a rookie autistic lawyer, who, despite being perceived as odd and awkward, turns out to be competent, intelligent and creative in her approach to cases.

“The show became popular not just in Korea, but all over the world so I was so shocked. Despite our different languages, emotions and cultures, people appreciated the show … We were able to share the same thoughts,” she told reporters through an interpreter.

The Daesang is one of the highest honors for television work in South Korea, and can be given to either an individual or a program. To put the magnitude of Eun-bin’s win into context, last year’s grand prize went to the international hit “Squid Game.” This time, it was the actress—not the show—that was recognized.

“I have learned that the grand prize typically goes to the project itself. But I received it as Park Eun-bin and that’s why it’s a big deal for me,” she told reporters through an interpreter.

An achievement of such magnitude can come with pressure or expectations. Some people have been asking what her next goals are, but she doesn’t want to think too far ahead.

“I’m still so happy that I can’t think of one right now. I simply want to enjoy this happy moment. After that, I will look for new projects and set future plans,” said the former child actress, who started out in the industry at just five years old.

Reading and watching the fans’ social media reaction videos to her win was touching and a source of “energy.” She got another dose of that during her recent fan meet at the New Frontier Theater, where she relived her winning moment with her Filipino fans.

On the big screen onstage, a clip of that special night was displayed. And as the presenters called out her name, Eun-bin mimicked her reaction, albeit lightheartedly, twirling around with her hand on her mouth. The event’s host, Denise Laurel, then urged the fans, or the Bingos, to give Eun-bin a standing ovation—as if they were at the awards ceremony.

“Salamat po!” she said, bowing her head to the crowd. “Oh my God! Thank you!”

Also at the fan meet, Eun-bin fielded questions from fans, played games and showed off her skills in different craftwork, like flower arranging. She signed and paint-designed tote bags, which she gave to people celebrating their birthday.

The actress took selfies with fans, whom she serenaded with the songs “Especially for You” and “Cupid” by Fifty Fifty. She playfully danced to Blackpink’s “Shut Down.” Toward the end of the show, she turned emotional watching heartfelt video messages and greetings from fans.While playing Attorney Woo will always be a part of her, Eun-bin is already looking forward to her upcoming series, “Diva of the Deserted Island,” where she will play an aspiring singer who gets stranded on a desert island for 15 years.

“I love all my characters … I give each of them the same love. All of those characters are [brought to life by] my acting,” said Eun-bin, who also starred in “Hello, My Twenties!,” “Hot Stove League,” “Do You Like Brahms?” and “The King’s Affection.”

She hopes that fans give her new show the same love and support they had for Attorney Woo. “There are still a lot of characters I haven’t done yet. That’s why I will choose my projects carefully, so I can receive the same support and energy Filipino fans showed me,” she said.

<h1>Park Eun-bin relives ‘Daesang’ moment with Filipino ‘bingos’ </h1>One thing Park Eun-bin learned from her mother is to treat every day as a “blessing.” “Don’t wait for your birthday,” she was told, “just think that every day is your birthday.”As such, the acclaimed South Korean actress believes that each moment is to be cherished, even something as simple as talking to show biz reporters at a press conference organized by Wilbros Live and the wellness brand Wide International.But if she were to pick one career highlight, it would be none other than winning the “Daesang” (Grand Prize) for television at this year’s prestigious Baeksang Arts Awards, which recognizes excellence in film, television and theater.“I have always dreamed of winning a Daesang, that grand prize … so I’m very happy I was able to achieve my goal,” said Eun-bin, who captured people’s hearts all over the globe with her performance in the series, “Extraordinary Attorney Woo.”The 30-year-old star played Woo Young-woo, a rookie autistic lawyer, who, despite being perceived as odd and awkward, turns out to be competent, intelligent and creative in her approach to cases.“The show became popular not just in Korea, but all over the world so I was so shocked. Despite our different languages, emotions and cultures, people appreciated the show … We were able to share the same thoughts,” she told reporters through an interpreter.<h2>Big deal</h2>The Daesang is one of the highest honors for television work in South Korea, and can be given to either an individual or a program. To put the magnitude of Eun-bin’s win into context, last year’s grand prize went to the international hit “Squid Game.” This time, it was the actress—not the show—that was recognized.“I have learned that the grand prize typically goes to the project itself. But I received it as Park Eun-bin and that’s why it’s a big deal for me,” she told reporters through an interpreter.An achievement of such magnitude can come with pressure or expectations. Some people have been asking what her next goals are, but she doesn’t want to think too far ahead.“I’m still so happy that I can’t think of one right now. I simply want to enjoy this happy moment. After that, I will look for new projects and set future plans,” said the former child actress, who started out in the industry at just five years old.<h2>Winning moment</h2>Reading and watching the fans’ social media reaction videos to her win was touching and a source of “energy.” She got another dose of that during her recent fan meet at the New Frontier Theater, where she relived her winning moment with her Filipino fans.On the big screen onstage, a clip of that special night was displayed. And as the presenters called out her name, Eun-bin mimicked her reaction, albeit lightheartedly, twirling around with her hand on her mouth. The event’s host, Denise Laurel, then urged the fans, or the Bingos, to give Eun-bin a standing ovation—as if they were at the awards ceremony.“Salamat po!” she said, bowing her head to the crowd. “Oh my God! Thank you!”Also at the fan meet, Eun-bin fielded questions from fans, played games and showed off her skills in different craftwork, like flower arranging. She signed and paint-designed tote bags, which she gave to people celebrating their birthday.<h2>Emotional</h2>The actress took selfies with fans, whom she serenaded with the songs “Especially for You” and “Cupid” by Fifty Fifty. She playfully danced to Blackpink’s “Shut Down.” Toward the end of the show, she turned emotional watching heartfelt video messages and greetings from fans.While playing Attorney Woo will always be a part of her, Eun-bin is already looking forward to her upcoming series, “Diva of the Deserted Island,” where she will play an aspiring singer who gets stranded on a desert island for 15 years.“I love all my characters … I give each of them the same love. All of those characters are [brought to life by] my acting,” said Eun-bin, who also starred in “Hello, My Twenties!,” “Hot Stove League,” “Do You Like Brahms?” and “The King’s Affection.”She hopes that fans give her new show the same love and support they had for Attorney Woo. “There are still a lot of characters I haven’t done yet. That’s why I will choose my projects carefully, so I can receive the same support and energy Filipino fans showed me,” she said.

Park Eun-bin relives ‘Daesang’ moment with Filipino ‘bingos’  

The live-action remake is the biggest film of 2023 in the Southeast Asian country: "They really loved Halle Bailey's performance as Ariel," says Disney's head of studios in APAC, John Hsu.

<a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/t/the-little-mermaid/">The Little Mermaid</a>&nbsp;may have bombed in some key movie markets in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/t/asia/">Asia</a>, but in the Philippines, it has been a splashy success.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/t/disney-2/">Disney</a>’s live-action remake of its 1989 animated classic is currently the biggest blockbuster of the year in the Southeast Asian country, having earned $5.8 million and surpassed Hollywood’s two biggest global hits of the year: Universal’s&nbsp;The Super Mario Bros. Movie&nbsp;($2.2 million) and&nbsp;Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3&nbsp;($4.7 million).

“The Philippines, obviously, is a standout market for us,” says John Hsu, Disney’s senior vp studio business in Asia Pacific. “It’s rare, but it’s the biggest territory for&nbsp;The Little Mermaid&nbsp;in Southeast Asia by far, our third highest-grossing market in Asia-Pacific behind Australia and Japan, and our 11th highest-grossing territory globally,” he says.

Elsewhere in Asia, the picture hasn’t been so bright. In the vastly larger markets of China and South Korea,&nbsp;The Little Mermaid&nbsp;has majorly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/box-office-the-little-mermaid-gets-doused-in-china-south-korea-after-racist-backlash-1235505682/">underperformed amid a racist backlash</a>&nbsp;on social media over the casting of Black actress&nbsp;Halle Bailey&nbsp;in the role of Ariel. The film has earned just $3.6 million in China and $5 million in South Korea —&nbsp;a fraction of what other Disney live-action remakes have grossed in those markets. The&nbsp;Jungle Book&nbsp;(2016) and&nbsp;The Lion King&nbsp;(2019) were outright blockbusters in China, earning $150 million and $120 million. In South Korea,&nbsp;Aladdin&nbsp;(2019) took $91 million and&nbsp;Beauty and the Beast&nbsp;(2017) brought in $37.5 million. Disney has declined to comment on&nbsp;The Little Mermaid’s performance in those countries.

In the Philippines, not only were such negative elements absent, but Bailey’s performance was widely embraced by Filipino filmgoers, according to Hsu. “They really loved Halle Bailey’s performance as Ariel, and they really liked her as the new princess,” he says.

“The Little Mermaid&nbsp;is a notable standout for the Philippines market this year,” says Rance Pow, president of Artisan Gateway, an exhibition industry consultancy specializing in Asia. Pow points out that the film is doing better than any other Hollywood fare this year, but it still won’t reach the heights of other Disney live-action remakes released in the Philippines pre-COVID —&nbsp;Aladdin&nbsp;earned $11 million there, and&nbsp;The Lion King&nbsp;took in $10.2 million.

“This might be because the Philippines is still re-ramping,” as the theatrical market continues to recover post-COVID, Pow says.

In the U.S.,&nbsp;The Little Mermaid&nbsp;has been doing good business despite protestations by some regarding Bailey’s casting. The movie has earned north of $257 million since its May 24 release. Box office analysts believe it could top out at $350 million domestically, close to&nbsp;Aladdin’s domestic haul of $355.6 million.

Japan is another major market where&nbsp;The Little Mermaid&nbsp;is showing some promise. It has earned $10.3 million there since its launch on June 9, and last weekend beat Sony’s&nbsp;Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse&nbsp;and Warner Bros.’&nbsp;The Flash.&nbsp;Word of mouth for&nbsp;The Little Mermaid&nbsp;is looking positive, but Japan is a famously slow-burn market, so it will take another few weeks to make clear how far the film can climb.

Hsu sees several contributors to&nbsp;The Little Mermaid’s outsize success in the Philippines: the country’s youthful demographics, strong nostalgia in the market for the original Disney animation, and an abiding love of music and singing that runs deep through Filipino culture. And he credits Disney’s Philippines-based marketing team for leaning into these factors to mount an especially effective campaign for the film.

“The did a comprehensive campaign across all media, but they really focused on social media, leaning into the music, nostalgia and Princess Ariel,” he says, noting that Bailey’s rendition of “Part of Your World,” the lead single from The Little Mermaid soundtrack, hit No. 1 on Spotify in the Philippines and has over 13 million plays there.

“Post-COVID, internet usage in the Philippines has increased significantly,” he adds. “So the team went very heavy on TikTok, recruiting influencers to promote the film by performing their own versions of Ariel’s songs. That really drove awareness and word of mouth for the film, which culminated in the strong opening.”

Some of the viral comedic posts created by Filipino TikTok influencers, using the branded&nbsp;Little Mermaid&nbsp;effect created by Disney, are below. Elsewhere in the Manila area, fan enthusiasm manifested in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/asias-movie-theaters-get-innovative-1235516178/">moviegoers dressing up</a>&nbsp;in mermaid and merman cosplay to attend special screenings of the film.&nbsp;

<h1>‘The Little Mermaid’ Becomes a Blockbuster in the Philippines Amid Racist Backlash Elsewhere in Asia</h1>The live-action remake is the biggest film of 2023 in the Southeast Asian country: "They really loved Halle Bailey's performance as Ariel," says Disney's head of studios in APAC, John Hsu.<a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/t/the-little-mermaid/">The Little Mermaid</a>&nbsp;may have bombed in some key movie markets in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/t/asia/">Asia</a>, but in the Philippines, it has been a splashy success.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/t/disney-2/">Disney</a>’s live-action remake of its 1989 animated classic is currently the biggest blockbuster of the year in the Southeast Asian country, having earned $5.8 million and surpassed Hollywood’s two biggest global hits of the year: Universal’s&nbsp;The Super Mario Bros. Movie&nbsp;($2.2 million) and&nbsp;Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3&nbsp;($4.7 million).“The Philippines, obviously, is a standout market for us,” says John Hsu, Disney’s senior vp studio business in Asia Pacific. “It’s rare, but it’s the biggest territory for&nbsp;The Little Mermaid&nbsp;in Southeast Asia by far, our third highest-grossing market in Asia-Pacific behind Australia and Japan, and our 11th highest-grossing territory globally,” he says.Elsewhere in Asia, the picture hasn’t been so bright. In the vastly larger markets of China and South Korea,&nbsp;The Little Mermaid&nbsp;has majorly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/box-office-the-little-mermaid-gets-doused-in-china-south-korea-after-racist-backlash-1235505682/">underperformed amid a racist backlash</a>&nbsp;on social media over the casting of Black actress&nbsp;Halle Bailey&nbsp;in the role of Ariel. The film has earned just $3.6 million in China and $5 million in South Korea —&nbsp;a fraction of what other Disney live-action remakes have grossed in those markets. The&nbsp;Jungle Book&nbsp;(2016) and&nbsp;The Lion King&nbsp;(2019) were outright blockbusters in China, earning $150 million and $120 million. In South Korea,&nbsp;Aladdin&nbsp;(2019) took $91 million and&nbsp;Beauty and the Beast&nbsp;(2017) brought in $37.5 million. Disney has declined to comment on&nbsp;The Little Mermaid’s performance in those countries.In the Philippines, not only were such negative elements absent, but Bailey’s performance was widely embraced by Filipino filmgoers, according to Hsu. “They really loved Halle Bailey’s performance as Ariel, and they really liked her as the new princess,” he says.“The Little Mermaid&nbsp;is a notable standout for the Philippines market this year,” says Rance Pow, president of Artisan Gateway, an exhibition industry consultancy specializing in Asia. Pow points out that the film is doing better than any other Hollywood fare this year, but it still won’t reach the heights of other Disney live-action remakes released in the Philippines pre-COVID —&nbsp;Aladdin&nbsp;earned $11 million there, and&nbsp;The Lion King&nbsp;took in $10.2 million.“This might be because the Philippines is still re-ramping,” as the theatrical market continues to recover post-COVID, Pow says.In the U.S.,&nbsp;The Little Mermaid&nbsp;has been doing good business despite protestations by some regarding Bailey’s casting. The movie has earned north of $257 million since its May 24 release. Box office analysts believe it could top out at $350 million domestically, close to&nbsp;Aladdin’s domestic haul of $355.6 million.Japan is another major market where&nbsp;The Little Mermaid&nbsp;is showing some promise. It has earned $10.3 million there since its launch on June 9, and last weekend beat Sony’s&nbsp;Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse&nbsp;and Warner Bros.’&nbsp;The Flash.&nbsp;Word of mouth for&nbsp;The Little Mermaid&nbsp;is looking positive, but Japan is a famously slow-burn market, so it will take another few weeks to make clear how far the film can climb.Hsu sees several contributors to&nbsp;The Little Mermaid’s outsize success in the Philippines: the country’s youthful demographics, strong nostalgia in the market for the original Disney animation, and an abiding love of music and singing that runs deep through Filipino culture. And he credits Disney’s Philippines-based marketing team for leaning into these factors to mount an especially effective campaign for the film.“The did a comprehensive campaign across all media, but they really focused on social media, leaning into the music, nostalgia and Princess Ariel,” he says, noting that Bailey’s rendition of “Part of Your World,” the lead single from The Little Mermaid soundtrack, hit No. 1 on Spotify in the Philippines and has over 13 million plays there.“Post-COVID, internet usage in the Philippines has increased significantly,” he adds. “So the team went very heavy on TikTok, recruiting influencers to promote the film by performing their own versions of Ariel’s songs. That really drove awareness and word of mouth for the film, which culminated in the strong opening.”Some of the viral comedic posts created by Filipino TikTok influencers, using the branded&nbsp;Little Mermaid&nbsp;effect created by Disney, are below. Elsewhere in the Manila area, fan enthusiasm manifested in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/asias-movie-theaters-get-innovative-1235516178/">moviegoers dressing up</a>&nbsp;in mermaid and merman cosplay to attend special screenings of the film.&nbsp;

‘The Little Mermaid’ Becomes a Blockbuster in the Philippines Amid Racist Backlash Elsewhere in Asia

The leading video streaming platform in Indonesia, Vidio, offers its 60 million monthly active viewers a collection of premium content anytime and anywhere, from sports live streaming to national and international TV, Vidio Original Series, Korean Drama, Anime, Asian, Kids, Bollywood, and Hollywood Blockbusters. Vidio is known as the “Home of Sports” in Indonesia as it is appointed as an official broadcaster of top premium global sports such as FIFA WorldCup, Premier League, NBA, and UEFA Champions League; and also well recognized as the “Home of Local Content” as it airs exclusively the local major sports league and the most aggressive OTT releasing local original series in the country.

In the modern era, where customers are overloaded with information and dwindling attention spans, a platform like Vidio must engage customers rhythmically and contextually, using relevant communication across their preferred channels. One of the key challenges for an OTT service provider is building contextual communication and reaching customers across every single touchpoint in their lifecycle journey.

This translates into engaging customers by providing personalized recommendations suited to their likes and preferences across the channels they are most active on. To do that, brands must first develop a deeper customer understanding, and that is precisely where Vidio aims to leverage MoEngage’s insights-led platform.

'Understanding our customers’ content preferences are our utmost priority, and I’m fully convinced that MoEngage will help us deepen customer understanding, in turn helping us engage them on a higher level, through rich, personalized experiences across preferred communication channels’, said Hadikusuma Wahab, Chief Product Officer, Vidio.

Through MoEngage, Vidio will create a contextual communication framework wherein they can reach viewers and engage them using content personalized to their taste and favorite genres and serve recommendations around upcoming original series, shows, movies, and sports they’d love.

Speaking about the scope of this partnership, Roy Simangunsong, Country Head Indonesia, MoEngage, mentioned, ‘For a leading OTT platform like Vidio, we understand how crucial it is to provide hyper-personalized, relevant, connected, and seamless customer experiences to ensure meaningful engagement. We are delighted and honored to be part of Vidio’s journey. We are dedicated to providing them with all the right insights needed to ensure a rich and relevant experience the end consumers rightly deserve!’&nbsp;

<h1>Indonesia’s Largest Video Streaming Platform, Vidio, Onboards MoEngage to Drive Personalized Engagement Across the Customer Lifecycle</h1>The leading video streaming platform in Indonesia, Vidio, offers its 60 million monthly active viewers a collection of premium content anytime and anywhere, from sports live streaming to national and international TV, Vidio Original Series, Korean Drama, Anime, Asian, Kids, Bollywood, and Hollywood Blockbusters. Vidio is known as the “Home of Sports” in Indonesia as it is appointed as an official broadcaster of top premium global sports such as FIFA WorldCup, Premier League, NBA, and UEFA Champions League; and also well recognized as the “Home of Local Content” as it airs exclusively the local major sports league and the most aggressive OTT releasing local original series in the country.In the modern era, where customers are overloaded with information and dwindling attention spans, a platform like Vidio must engage customers rhythmically and contextually, using relevant communication across their preferred channels. One of the key challenges for an OTT service provider is building contextual communication and reaching customers across every single touchpoint in their lifecycle journey.<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/4b2d396fe0f3abd774b1d89c182820a8069acea6c4d2077c4e76ad4f861335c1/moengage_image_2.jpg" alt="Image"/>This translates into engaging customers by providing personalized recommendations suited to their likes and preferences across the channels they are most active on. To do that, brands must first develop a deeper customer understanding, and that is precisely where Vidio aims to leverage MoEngage’s insights-led platform.'Understanding our customers’ content preferences are our utmost priority, and I’m fully convinced that MoEngage will help us deepen customer understanding, in turn helping us engage them on a higher level, through rich, personalized experiences across preferred communication channels’, said Hadikusuma Wahab, Chief Product Officer, Vidio.Through MoEngage, Vidio will create a contextual communication framework wherein they can reach viewers and engage them using content personalized to their taste and favorite genres and serve recommendations around upcoming original series, shows, movies, and sports they’d love.<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/40c5c37ff5d0aa5deaa36cc05af4c5d00ec2aad339f107303d3d31527aa41f62/moengage_image_1.jpg" alt="Image"/>Speaking about the scope of this partnership, Roy Simangunsong, Country Head Indonesia, MoEngage, mentioned, ‘For a leading OTT platform like Vidio, we understand how crucial it is to provide hyper-personalized, relevant, connected, and seamless customer experiences to ensure meaningful engagement. We are delighted and honored to be part of Vidio’s journey. We are dedicated to providing them with all the right insights needed to ensure a rich and relevant experience the end consumers rightly deserve!’&nbsp;
About Vidio 
Vidio is the first Indonesian-made OTT, which was founded in 2014. As the first local OTT, Vidio has an inherent understanding of the market and curates the best content for Indonesian watchers. Vidio connects to more than 50 TVs & 30 radios and delivers the most extensive streaming service. Vidio offers millions of local and international contents through its VOD services and pays TV network subscriptions, including Vidio Original Series, TV series, dramas, cartoons and animations, documentaries, as well as thousands of sporting events from a wide range of leagues, including the Premier League and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Vidio is dedicated to giving its users the best and most convenient access to entertainment, regardless of their location or device. 

About MoEngage 
MoEngage is an insights-led customer engagement platform, trusted by more than 1200 global such as Kredivo, Alfamart, BliBli, Socialla, XL Axiata, Alodokter, Citibank, Mamikos, 7-Eleven, CIMB Bank, and more.
MoEngage empowers marketers and product owners with insights into customer behavior and the ability to act on those insights to engage customers across the web, mobile, email, social, and messaging channels. Consumer brands across 35 countries use MoEngage to power digital experiences for over 1 billion users every month. 

With offices in 13 countries, MoEngage is backed by Goldman Sachs Asset Management, B Capital, Steadview Capital, Multiples Private Equity, Eight Roads, F-Prime Capital, Matrix Partners, Ventureast, and Helion Ventures. 

MoEngage was recognized as a Customers’ Choice Vendor in the 2022 Gartner Peer Insights ‘Voice of the Customer’ for the Multichannel Marketing Hubs Report and a Strong Performer in the Forrester Wave™: Cross-Channel Marketing Hubs, Q1 2023 Evaluation. 

To learn more, visit https://www.moengage.com/

Startups

Indonesia’s Largest Video Streaming Platform, Vidio, Onboards MoEngage to Drive Personalized Engagement Across the Customer Lifecycle

<a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4482818/" target="_blank">Joyce Laoagan</a>'s new film,&nbsp;"Sungod"&nbsp;is about a woman whose life seems to go nowhere after her father passed. She then decides to travel to the Philippines to take a break from her life in the United States. She goes back to her father's ancestral lands in Benguet and Baguio City from New York City as a way to reconnect with her father.&nbsp;Sungod&nbsp;in ibaloi loosely means destiny.&nbsp;

The film features beautiful spots in Bokod, Benguet where Joyce's mother is from and Mount Pulag - the 3rd highest mountain in the Philippines where Joyce's ancestors and people consider as sacred. She also showcased the culture of the Ibaloi tribe as well as Benguet and the Bendiyan festival of Kabayan where she spent most of her childhood.

Joyce, fresh from the wins of her film,&nbsp;<a href="https://thefilam.net/archives/36540" target="_blank">Eva's Gabriel</a>&nbsp;has always been proud of her Indigenous and Igorot culture. She is a FBI (Full-Blooded igorot). Her mother is full Ibaloi of the Lamsis and Dipas families from Bokod, Benguet. Her father is half ibaloi of the Kibara family from Kabayan, Benguet and half bag-o - a lesser known subtribe which include all igorots or mixed ilocano and igorots who moved to the ilocano regions. Her bag-o side are her great paternal grand parents of the Bagitan and Lawagan/Laoagan families, originally from Tetep-an, Sagada and Samoki, Bontoc, Mountain Province respectively. Her paternal great grand parents moved to La Union and Ilocos Sur in the 40's to the 60's. This film depicts Joyce's character when she reconnects with her indigenous and igorot side in relation to her father. It is a semi - auto biography on how she has been dealing with her grief ever since her father passed in the late 2015. In 2016, a few months after her father passed, someone sent her family a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pinoymountaineer.com/2016/02/photoessay-memories-of-my-1973-mt-pulag-hike.html" target="_blank">photoessay blog</a>&nbsp;by Gideon Lasco about 5 law students from Baguio Colleges Foundation (now known as University of the Cordilleras) who trekked Mount Pulag via the now closed Ellet-Abukot-Babadak route in 1973. Her father, former RTC Judge Agapito (Pete) Laoagan Jr. is in the blog. This inspired Joyce to reference the film to the story and the images attached to it.

The "Sungod" cast and crew&nbsp;(from top to bottom, left to right) Richard Wallace (actor/tour guide), Drake Waclin Maranes (DP/Co-Director), Femy Galasgas Lamsis (AD/PC), Bryan Laoagan Cadaweng (PA), Galdong Lang Udan (PA/Cultural Consultant), Danielle Mendoza (MUA and Hair), Jeryck Sigmaton, Joyce (Lao) Laoagan, Sarah Dipas Barozzo (PA), Romnick Bayeng (drone op, photographer), and Arnel Bangsi-il (PA/Driver - not in photo)

She wanted to have an all Igorot/Cordilleran crew (this include non-igorots who grew up in the Cordillera and adopted the ways of the igorots) and have her ibaloi language be spoken in the film. She is glad that more and more Cordillerans are making films about indigenous experiences and she hopes that their stories will continue to be told not only for entertainment&nbsp; purposes but also for educational purposes since most Filipinos are still not aware of how igorots look like and how igorots live their lives especially nowadays where modernization and ancient practices and beliefs are being blended together.

Joyce sought out fellow igorot actor,&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeyrick_Sigmaton" target="_blank">Jeryck Sigmaton</a>&nbsp; known as "Carrotman" to play James - an important character in the story. Joyce commends Jeryck and thinks that he is a good actor, his skills and style would appeal with an international audience. Having just won Best actor from the Manhattan International Film Festival for his role in the film&nbsp;"Dayas"&nbsp;another Cordilleran produced film (Sine Cordillera) proves it. According to Joyce, his acting in the film,&nbsp;"Dayas"&nbsp;&nbsp;has shown his natural style and his powerful portrayal of the role.

Aside from home grown talents, Joyce also cast one of her fellow Filipino-American colleagues,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1478223/" target="_blank">Lydia Gaston</a>&nbsp;who has been a staple on the Broadway stage and now an up and coming actor in Hollywood. She is most well-known from her latest project,&nbsp;"<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11952606/?ref_=nm_knf_i_1" target="_blank">Easter Sunday</a>"&nbsp;which was released in theaters worldwide where she played the fil-am comedian,&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jo_Koy" target="_blank">Jokoy</a>'s mother.

"My heritage as an Asian artist, a Filipino, an&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igorot_people" target="_blank">Igorot</a>a as well as an American are all important to me and all these parts of me are shown in this film. Since Asian and Filipino voices are now being shown internationally, I also want to present indigenous voices in my work and hopefully indigenous creatives will also be inspired to create and tell their own stories and perhaps collaborate with me in the future. I love creating theatre and film that would make people think. Although there were "Igorot" or indigenous-based work produced in the Philippines before, the actors and the crew and creative team were not igorots. To me, that is important because we are here and we can tell our own narratives. Until now, textbooks being taught in schools in the Philippines state wrong information about us. It has been years when our people called to correct this error but it seems like we are being ignored. "&nbsp;Joyce says.&nbsp;"We are positive that films like this will bring about awareness and understanding of who we are. Through this, we will bring about more unity within the Filipino community."&nbsp;she adds.&nbsp;

Photo Credit: Romnick Bayeng, April 2023

Joyce Laoagan, theallyartistsgroup@gmail.com

<h1>Cordillerans Star in a new Indie film, "Sungod"</h1>New York City - based Igorota actor, screenwriter, producer and director, Joyce Laoagan has just wrapped filming the Baguio and Benguet scenes of her new film, "Sungod" filming will proceed in New York City in the next few months.<a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4482818/" target="_blank">Joyce Laoagan</a>'s new film,&nbsp;"Sungod"&nbsp;is about a woman whose life seems to go nowhere after her father passed. She then decides to travel to the Philippines to take a break from her life in the United States. She goes back to her father's ancestral lands in Benguet and Baguio City from New York City as a way to reconnect with her father.&nbsp;Sungod&nbsp;in ibaloi loosely means destiny.&nbsp;The film features beautiful spots in Bokod, Benguet where Joyce's mother is from and Mount Pulag - the 3rd highest mountain in the Philippines where Joyce's ancestors and people consider as sacred. She also showcased the culture of the Ibaloi tribe as well as Benguet and the Bendiyan festival of Kabayan where she spent most of her childhood.Joyce, fresh from the wins of her film,&nbsp;<a href="https://thefilam.net/archives/36540" target="_blank">Eva's Gabriel</a>&nbsp;has always been proud of her Indigenous and Igorot culture. She is a FBI (Full-Blooded igorot). Her mother is full Ibaloi of the Lamsis and Dipas families from Bokod, Benguet. Her father is half ibaloi of the Kibara family from Kabayan, Benguet and half bag-o - a lesser known subtribe which include all igorots or mixed ilocano and igorots who moved to the ilocano regions. Her bag-o side are her great paternal grand parents of the Bagitan and Lawagan/Laoagan families, originally from Tetep-an, Sagada and Samoki, Bontoc, Mountain Province respectively. Her paternal great grand parents moved to La Union and Ilocos Sur in the 40's to the 60's. This film depicts Joyce's character when she reconnects with her indigenous and igorot side in relation to her father. It is a semi - auto biography on how she has been dealing with her grief ever since her father passed in the late 2015. In 2016, a few months after her father passed, someone sent her family a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pinoymountaineer.com/2016/02/photoessay-memories-of-my-1973-mt-pulag-hike.html" target="_blank">photoessay blog</a>&nbsp;by Gideon Lasco about 5 law students from Baguio Colleges Foundation (now known as University of the Cordilleras) who trekked Mount Pulag via the now closed Ellet-Abukot-Babadak route in 1973. Her father, former RTC Judge Agapito (Pete) Laoagan Jr. is in the blog. This inspired Joyce to reference the film to the story and the images attached to it.<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/image.png" alt="&nbsp; The "Sungod" cast and crew&nbsp;(from top to bottom, left to right) Richard Wallace (actor/tour guide), Drake Waclin Maranes (DP/Co-Director), Femy Galasgas Lamsis (AD/PC), Bryan Laoagan Cadaweng (PA), Galdong Lang Udan (PA/Cultural Consultant), Danielle Mendoza (MUA and Hair), Jeryck Sigmaton, Joyce (Lao) Laoagan, Sarah Dipas Barozzo (PA), Romnick Bayeng (drone op, photographer), and Arnel Bangsi-il (PA/Driver - not in photo)"/>The "Sungod" cast and crew&nbsp;(from top to bottom, left to right) Richard Wallace (actor/tour guide), Drake Waclin Maranes (DP/Co-Director), Femy Galasgas Lamsis (AD/PC), Bryan Laoagan Cadaweng (PA), Galdong Lang Udan (PA/Cultural Consultant), Danielle Mendoza (MUA and Hair), Jeryck Sigmaton, Joyce (Lao) Laoagan, Sarah Dipas Barozzo (PA), Romnick Bayeng (drone op, photographer), and Arnel Bangsi-il (PA/Driver - not in photo)She wanted to have an all Igorot/Cordilleran crew (this include non-igorots who grew up in the Cordillera and adopted the ways of the igorots) and have her ibaloi language be spoken in the film. She is glad that more and more Cordillerans are making films about indigenous experiences and she hopes that their stories will continue to be told not only for entertainment&nbsp; purposes but also for educational purposes since most Filipinos are still not aware of how igorots look like and how igorots live their lives especially nowadays where modernization and ancient practices and beliefs are being blended together.Joyce sought out fellow igorot actor,&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeyrick_Sigmaton" target="_blank">Jeryck Sigmaton</a>&nbsp; known as "Carrotman" to play James - an important character in the story. Joyce commends Jeryck and thinks that he is a good actor, his skills and style would appeal with an international audience. Having just won Best actor from the Manhattan International Film Festival for his role in the film&nbsp;"Dayas"&nbsp;another Cordilleran produced film (Sine Cordillera) proves it. According to Joyce, his acting in the film,&nbsp;"Dayas"&nbsp;&nbsp;has shown his natural style and his powerful portrayal of the role.Aside from home grown talents, Joyce also cast one of her fellow Filipino-American colleagues,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1478223/" target="_blank">Lydia Gaston</a>&nbsp;who has been a staple on the Broadway stage and now an up and coming actor in Hollywood. She is most well-known from her latest project,&nbsp;"<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11952606/?ref_=nm_knf_i_1" target="_blank">Easter Sunday</a>"&nbsp;which was released in theaters worldwide where she played the fil-am comedian,&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jo_Koy" target="_blank">Jokoy</a>'s mother."My heritage as an Asian artist, a Filipino, an&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igorot_people" target="_blank">Igorot</a>a as well as an American are all important to me and all these parts of me are shown in this film. Since Asian and Filipino voices are now being shown internationally, I also want to present indigenous voices in my work and hopefully indigenous creatives will also be inspired to create and tell their own stories and perhaps collaborate with me in the future. I love creating theatre and film that would make people think. Although there were "Igorot" or indigenous-based work produced in the Philippines before, the actors and the crew and creative team were not igorots. To me, that is important because we are here and we can tell our own narratives. Until now, textbooks being taught in schools in the Philippines state wrong information about us. It has been years when our people called to correct this error but it seems like we are being ignored. "&nbsp;Joyce says.&nbsp;"We are positive that films like this will bring about awareness and understanding of who we are. Through this, we will bring about more unity within the Filipino community."&nbsp;she adds.&nbsp;Photo Credit: Romnick Bayeng, April 2023<h3>PRESS CONTACT</h3>Joyce Laoagan, theallyartistsgroup@gmail.com

New York City - based Igorota actor, screenwriter, producer and director, Joyce Laoagan has just wrapped filming the Baguio and Benguet scenes of her new film, "Sungod" filming will proceed in New York City in the next few months.