Dateline Movies Countdown: May The Facts Be With You!

Star Wars is one the most well-known and beloved film universes to ever graced the big screens. Writer and director George Lucas certainly knows how to craft a very well done world wherein anything and everything will most likely happen, except for the prequel trilogy, which we all can agree wished could have came out better. With Episode VII finally coming out after many years, we should at least get to know more of the secrets and behind-the-scenes happenings of the Star Wars films. Salutations, and here in Dateline Movies, the facts will always be with you!

5. If you were a kid or a teen back in the late 70s, the scene that shocked you the most would probably be the death of Obi-Wan Kenobi at the hands of Darth Vader, which would come into full circle in later entries. Because of the popularity of both the actor, Alec Guinness, the character and the film, you would probably think that this guy would never have hated his role in the movie. Well that is unexpectedly wrong because...

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The late Alec Guinness loathed his role in Episode IV: A New Hope because he claims it is nothing more than "fairy tale rubbish". His reason for joining the cast is of course none other than cold-printed cash, and its concept. He, however, refused to promote the movie.

His hatred increased when the public cemented his status as Obi-Wan. In fact, he presented the idea of killing Obi-Wan in the film's climax to George Lucas, who agreed and went on with the thought. Up until his death, his hate for the character burns, but not in an overtly annoying way. Despite this, he is actually a pretty down-to-earth and gentle fellow, as all members of the project praised him for his hard work and likable attitude, even earning him a nomination from both the Academy Awards and the Oscars for his portrayal.

Point of Interest: According to his book, A Positively Final Appearance, Alec Guinness made a young Star Wars fan cry after asking the lad "to never see Star Wars again.". He mentioned in the book that he "just hope(s) the lad, now in his thirties, is not living in a fantasy world of secondhand childish banalities.".

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4. Obviously none of us completely understood whatever gibberish the Ewoks were saying in Episode VII: Return Of The Jedi. Yeah the Ewoks, the small, furry, and seemingly calm aliens from the Forest Moon of Endor. Because of the structure and delivery of the dialogue delivered by them, you would be thinking that all of them are simply non-sense. Guess again friends, because...

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Ben Burtt, the sound-designer for the film, said that whatever the Ewoks were saying were all based on Kalmyk Language, the tongue of a group of people in Russia. According to him and I am not being racist here, he said that when he once watched a documentary about these people, and said, and I paraphrase, it "sounds very alien for Western listeners". He recorded the voice of a Kalmyk native telling some tales, and Burtt made use of the dialogue for the actors to imitate. Anthony Daniels, who played C-3PO in all Star Wars films, assisted in making some made-up jargon. 

Point of Interest: Strangely, many people, including me, would mistake it for the Tagalog language, as one Ewok uttered "Ayon, puno daw ito!" or "They said that this is a tree" in English. They even mentioned "Maganda!", which means beautiful when translated. However, some would object that they are speaking in Tibetan speech.

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3. A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, someone actually thought it would be a great idea to make a variety television film for the beloved franchise. But not just a regular SNL-esque special, a Christmas version, and its twice as campy as the hated Batman and Robin movie. Thankfully, that is probably only going to be made in an alternate reality of sorts. I mean, who would be dumb enough to make a campy Christmas special on Star Wars? Oh wait, I'm wrong, because...

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For modern audiences, this atrocity is better left unknown, yet for unfortunate souls like me, who although did not watch it but saw some pictures, this one is a huge cheese-fest filled with a poor story, really, really weird and out-of-place segments and some seriously unexpectedly creepy make-up and props. Just search for the Ewoks they used in this film. I won't even waste my time posting it here. Also, why would you make an epic space opera into the ultimate example of a campy film? And let's not forget the animated sequence which, even with its selling points, still fell flat on its face. This project was hated even by its cast mates, including but not limited to...

Anthony Daniels - "I'm not convinced the special wasn't ultimately written and directed by a sentient bag of cocaine."

Carrie Fisher - she shows it at some events if "I want people to leave.", and of course...

George Lucas - "If I had the time and the sledgehammer, I would track down every copy of that show and smash it."

Point of Interest: The "special" was only broadcast once, making this a rare find. Because of Star Wars fans, this actually received a cult following, with commercials included featured in its original airing and the highlight of the film, the animated shorts.

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2. Man, I didn't know movies could inspire so much. Remember that one time when we said The Matrix unintentionally inspired a sort-of religion? I actually read about something being based on The Dude from The Big Lebowski. It's actually kind of interesting if you want to take a look at it. Why am I asking you this? Well...

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Apparently people who are faithful to the path of the Jedi have declared their religion as Jediism on a national census, wherein the people recorded were asked through an email to declare themselves as Jedi. This has some backlash on United Kingdom, as they are now charged as being a cult, and will not be protected. This, in fact, has become so much of a phenomenon that a lot of members involved here were actually dismissed from their jobs because they simply did not want to take-off their hoods. Even a student made a petition to construct a Jedi Temple at his school.

Point of Interest: The founders are brothers Daniel and Barney Jones. According to them, there is "more Jedi than Scientologists in Britain."

Okay, so there are obviously a few good trivia on this good 'ol expansive universe more than we thought. So just to be sure that we have given you enough hype to watch, here are some more cool facts that could either make you smile, shock you, and make you nostalgic.

Bonus Facts:

• George Lucas personally approached his good friend Steven Spielberg to co-direct the fight scene with Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker, as well as the duel between Yoda and Palpatine in Episode III: Revenge of the Sith.

• The band *NSYNC made a cameo in a cut footage from Episode II: Attack of The Clones at the behest of George Lucas because he wants to make his daughters happy.

• Even though George Lucas had almost no involvement with Episode VII, he had already made some draft scripts for the sequel trilogy prior to the release of Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. Disney refused to make use of them for reasons unknown.

• There was some controversy over Episode I: The Phantom Menace due to the alien characters reminiscing racial stereotypes. For example, the character Watto was said to act like a stereotypical Jewish man. According to Rob Coleman, an animator for the film, he made use of Alec Guinness's portrayal of Fagin from Oliver Twist as inspiration. Coincidence?

• This one has spoilers for The Force Awakens. There are many physical and voice cameos from people who worked in other Star Wars media in The Force Awakens, and some because they were fans or simply for the fun of it, including...

- Ewan McGregor, Alec Guinness and Frank Oz as Obi-Wan Kenobi from the Prequel Trilogy, Ben Kenobi from the Original Trilogy and Yoda respectively in archive recordings.

- Simon Pegg (Star Trek Reboot Series) as Unkar Plutt, an alien scrap collector from Jakku.

- Bill Hader (Saturday Night Live) and Ben Schwartz (The Interview) joined as "voice consultants" for BB-8.

- Michael Giachino, Nigel Godrich and even Daniel Craig (Spectre) as Stromtroopers.

- Greg Grunberg (Heroes) as an X-Wing pilot named Snap Wexley.

- Warwick Davis (Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi) as an alien named Wollivan.

- Carrie Fisher's daughter Billie Lourd (Scream Queens) as a member of the Resistance named Connix.

- The casts of Star War: The Clone Wars and Star Wars: Rebels, including directors J.J. Abrams and Kevin Smith (Dogma) as voice roles. And there's probably a whole lot more.

• Oscar Isaacs' uncle was a huge fan of Star Wars, and with approval from J.J. Abrams, has a small part in the film.

1. Of course, no fan, and I mean, no fan would miss the epic movie event of the year, which is none other than Episode VII. But what if you were given a chance to see it before it even hits theaters? There was one man, who might be considered as the greatest Star Wars fan ever known, probably greater as a fan than my friend Gabe or my dad, was waiting so long to see the latest installment. That man was Daniel Fleetwood. You probably haven't heard of him? Well you should, because...

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Daniel only had two remaining months of life due to his terminal illness, Spindle Cell Sarcoma, a form of tissue cancer. This meant that, as a fan of the series, he'll be missing out on the showing of Star Wars Episode VII, but like a true fan, he fought back with all his strength. As such, he and Ashley, his then wife, started the #ForceForDaniel, so that he may see the film prior to his passing away. This was a success as Daniel was able to see it in an uncut version. Days later, Daniel succumbed to his disease and is now one with the Force. Because of Ashley, Daniel was able to fulfill his dreams. Now that is love. On behalf of Star Wars fans all over the world, thank you for helping-out Daniel in the pursuit of his dream. On Daniel's passing, Ashley left a note for his supporters everywhere.

Point of Interest: J.J. Abrams, Mark Hamill and John Boyega supported the campaign.

You can visit Ashley's tribute Facebook page for Daniel, here, and you can also follow or friend Ashley here.

Man, that last fact reminds me of my family, especially now that it is the Christmas season. Star Wars Episode VII is now showing by the way, so don't spoil us yet. From me and my dad here on Dateline Movies, we wish you all a "Joyeux Noël", a "Maligayang Pasko", a "Felis Navidad", a "Merii Kurisumasu", a ""Kurisumasu Omedetou", a "Glædelig Jul". Merry Christmas everyone! Now before you leave, here are some cool tunes made by fans, which maybe you too could enjoy! Adios!

A Star Wars Piano Medley - Sonya Belousova (PlayerPiano)

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The Dark Side of Rock - Galactic Empire (VelocityRecords)

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An Acapella Cover - Jimmy Fallon, The Roots and the cast of The Force Awakens

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My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore

In the local movie scene, the month of December is marked by the Annual Metro Manila Film Festival. This festival which runs from December 25th to the first week of January, showcases locally produced films. The films are of different genre but almost always, a comedy film will make it to the list. For the Metro Manila Film Festival 2015, it is My Bebe Love:#KiligPaMore.

My Bebe Love: Kilig Pa More (2015)

What happens when the country’s comedy giants - the undisputed Philippine box-office king of comedy Vic Sotto and box-office queen Ai-Ai delas Alas, join forces with the newest record-breaking, phenomenal Aldub loveteam composed of Alden Richards and Maine “Yayadub” Mendoza, in one groundbreaking movie during the holiday season?

Vic Sotto plays the role of Vito who finds himself at odds and in a bitter professional rivalry with Cora, played by Ai-Ai. The two are both in the business of mounting special events and productions and have both made a successful name in the same profession. The conflict happens when their respective wards – Anna (played by Maine) daughter of Vito, gets romantically entangled with Cora’s beloved nephew Dondi (played by Alden). As expected, the “parents” actively reject the budding romantic involvement between the star-crossed lovers and willingly struck an unexpected truce to prevent this romance from happening.

“My Bebe Love: Kilig Pa More!” also features Joey de Leon, the “Eat Bulaga” lolas Paolo Ballesteros, Jose Manalo, and Wally Bayola, and Ryzza Mae Dizon, in special appearances. The movie is written by Jose Javier Reyes and Bibeth Orteza and directed by Jose Javier Reyes.

Reel and Real Test

More than the awaited resolution of the conflict in the movie to help bring closure and new beginnings to the young lovers Dondi and Anna, hangs the question of whether the immense popularity of Alden and Maine will translate 

to the movie scene. The presence of Vic and Ai-Ai takes care of the need to have bankable stars in the movie. Ditto with the appearances of the three lolas from Kalye Serye, which I believe is one of the main reasons for the success of the series.

This early, festival observers are already predicting a surefire box-office reign for “My Bebe Love: Kilig Pa More!” which is jointly-offered by OctoArts Films, M-Zet Television Productions, Inc., APT Entertainment, GMA Films and Media Production. We will all soon find out if this prediction has basis. Catch the excitement, the love, the fun and romance when “My Bebe Love: Kilig Pa More!” starts showing on Christmas Day at the MMFF.

Movie Review - Spectre

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Spectre (2015)

Rated PG-13: (For Violence, Some Sensitive Themes and Mild Language)

Running Time: 148 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes)

Genre/s: Action, Adventure, Drama, Spy, Thriller

Released on November 6, 2015 (US Release Date, Available For Worldwide Viewing)

Presented by Columbia Pictures and Metro Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures

Writers: Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, John Logan and Jez Butterworth

Director: Sam Mendes

Starring:

• Daniel Craig as James Bond/Agent 007 

• Léa Seydoux as Madeline Swann 

• Christoph Waltz as Franz Oberhauser/Ernst Stavro Blofeld

• Ben Whinshaw as Q 

• Ralph Fiennes as Gareth Mallory/M

• Dave Bautista as Mr. Hinx

• Andrew Scott as Max Denbigh/C

• Naomie Harris as Eve Moneypenny

• Jesper Christensen as Mr. White

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Bond is back, and this time, he faces a threat stronger than the entire MI6. Salutations everyone, and today in Dateline Movies, we'll be reviewing the fourth James Bond film with Daniel Craig as the star, Spectre. To be honest, I forgot about Spectre after posting all about Star Wars and some other topics. Thank goodness for my mom and my sister's birthday, as we would have missed a descent enough movie.  Now let's move on into spy territory and review Spectre!

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What is the movie about?

After the death of the previous M and the eventual take over of Gareth Mallory, played by Fiennes (The Grand Budapest Hotel), Agent 007 or Bond, James Bond, played by Craig (Skyfall), tracks down an assassin in Mexico, who was mentioned in a message left behind by the former M. This message was shown by Bond to Eve Moneypenny, played by Harris (Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom). The destruction left behind by Bond and the assailant's clash caused internal turmoil within MI6, and later on facing immediate disbandment from Max Denbigh, played by Scott (Sherlock).

After the death of his target and stealing the new car made by Q, played by Whishaw (Perfume: The Story of a Murderer), Bond now travels around the globe in search of the assassin's employers. He soon discovers their identities when a blast from his past returns in the form of Franz Oberhauser, now known as Ernst Stavro Blofeld, played by Waltz (Django Unchained). Seeking payback against Bond, Blofeld and his shadowy organization SPECTRE is out to create a new world order with the use of corrupted cyber-security.

To save the world yet again, Bond must set-out Dr. Madeline Swann, played by Seydoux (Blue Is the Warmest Color), the daughter of a former enemy named Mr. White, played by Christensen (Manslaughter), all the while being pursued by the malevolent Mr. Hinx, played by Bautista (Guardians of The Galaxy).

What we think of the film?

Acting = (3/5)

After watching Daniel Craig play James Bond for three movies in a row, you might have been convinced by now that Craig is completely capable of following-up on the Bond legacy. He is ever compelling as usual as he delivers the suave and charm to the flick. However, there are some signs of lacking in energy in the movie. Not that it means he failed to live-up to all other great Bond movies, as he clearly gave a performance worthy of the real-life James Bond, if he even exists. What I meant to say was that his work here is all too familiar, and not much new can be seen.

The greatest and the most beloved appearance by fans everywhere, especially us, is that of the talented Christoph Waltz, who you might remember for playing scene-stealing characters in two of Quentin Tarantino's masterpieces. Thanks to Waltz, Blofeld is no longer the stereotypical "mastermind running a secret group because he is evil" kind of guy, he is now a more human and a more realistic threat to the Bond mythos.

Other returning cast members delivered the unexpected laughs or twists that are enough to liven-up the movie. Q delivers the geeky side of the movie, Moneypenny remains Bond's faithful friend, and Mallory is not just the boss at the office now, as he kicks some terrorist's butt here. Scott gives us an interesting interpretation as a surprise villain and even though he is lost for words, Bautista makes a really good henchman.

Seydoux, however, doesn't seem to fit well as a Bond Girl. Sure, she is beautiful, and she was great as a French assassin in Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol, but here she seems less than enthusiastic at every scene she is in, immediately dulls the atmosphere. The main problem I have with her performance is that she contains one facial expression. As in she usually frowns, but not always, and it gets pretty annoying when you think about it.

Production Value and Cinematography = (5/5)

The highlight of the movie is clearly the eye-catching cinematography and the production value. Watching Bond movies offers not only action, but also the opportunity to see beautiful countries as well.  Filming Spectre takes place in several locations all over the world. Each location looking as clear and visually stunning as a clear blue river. Dutch-Swedish cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema does a fine job of capturing every memorable angle scenes making every piece of action so realistic.

From the explosions and the punches taken to the face, all were amazing and are the ones that brought Spectre alive and well. The action-packed moments, including the intro, the face-off in the old MI6 headquarters, that nifty escape with the use of a literal ticking bomb, and that one giant explosion in Blofeld's base of operations, which actually won a record for biggest explosion, is simply mind-blowing!

Of course, the part that really takes the cake of all cinematographic milestones is none other than the latest colorful and majestic Bond entrance theme, featuring the powerful and soulful vocal of acclaimed artist Sam Smith. Entitled "Writing's On The Wall", it initially received a mixed reception from fans upon the release of the music video. This is because many felt that, although the song was great, it is not fitting for a Bond film. Well they are wrong. This segment proves that Bond songs are far from obsolete.

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Story, Dialogues and Flow = (2/5)

As much I enjoy the smooth ways Bond catches bad guys, you have to admit that at some points in the entire Bond film and book series, it could get too odd for your own good, or simply a rip-off of another film that's not even part of the entire franchise. Spectre, sadly, is not a part of the cheesy yet appealing ones, it is the point wherein they are starting to run out of ideas.

The story is okay in paper actually, as this ties the entire Bond universe in one swoop. If you are not a fan of James Bond and just started to catch-up, then there might be some confusions regarding some story angles in the film. Revealing that all the bad guys James had fought are actually part of a secret conglomerate? Yeah, I am just surprised.

The execution, however, is far from okay. The opening act was spectacular, as this raised the tension the film is trying to show, but it immediately disappears afterwards. Why they have to lengthen every single scene is beyond me. But one thing is for certain, it was unnecessary. Come on Bond, you should be kicking henchmen in the behind, not go on dates. There's also the humor, although it is surprisingly funny in some parts. Personally, I felt that it was a little bit out of place in most scenes. Here, the stakes have never been lower, thanks to the length. Let's not forget the expositions that we don't care about.

Ending, Originality and Story Fulfillment = (1/5)

There has not been a tint of originality in this story, and that absolutely disappoints me. Bond movies are usually the out-of-the-box kind of mystery films. There should be weird master plans and most of the time beyond our imagination scenarios. Well I do commend the attempt at realism, this down-to- earth approach just made Bond a little too grounded. 

You know the writers have ran out of ideas when you realize they just ripped-off Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Wait, wasn't it obvious? Oh well, I guess I have to elaborate the similarities.

Okay, we have (1) a clandestine organization facing political threats, especially for the boss. The theme "out with the old, in with the new" is very much present. (2) It has been revealed that a sinister terrorist cell, who has an acronym for a name and an octopus-like emblem, has infiltrated the said agency. They are also revealed to be the one pulling the strings throughout all the movies. Interestingly, the secret surfaced through the enemy group's symbol being displayed on a computer screen. (3) A blast from the past comes out to hunt down our hero. Each are seen as the protagonist's brother figure. (4) This terrorist group has a plan that involves mass-surveillance and complete control of the world's technology, and is initially disguised as a world-saving operation. In the final battle, both will take some convenient time to charge and enough minutes for the good guys to win. (5) Although more of a coincidence, both movies feature a male and a female working side-by-side. (6) Again a coincidence, the villains, who are revealed to be moles and a colleague of the boss in each flick, died lying on the floor surrounded by glass. (7) The opening act involves an incident in a certain area which leads the hero to an argument with his superior.

The ending is, although fulfilling in the sense of wrapping-up the entire film, is not much special. Although I kind of love the idea of Christoph Waltz making a possible return due to his character simply being incarcerated, it's just a sigh of relief as the conclusion was particularly ruined by the unnecessarily long running time and dull and non-innovative story.

Overall Evaluation = (3/5)

We hope you are not a Bond fan or an action lover, because even with the dazzling cinematography and sharp performances, there is a surprising lack of adrenaline rush in this movie.

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Saving Grace! (Spotted!); Callbacks To Previous Films = (Varies)

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Okay this one is a new category. We'll be adding half a point for every single moment or recurring motif in the movie that has been a source of some laughs, some throwbacks and etc. This will only be used if the film reaches a rating of 14 points and below. So let's try saving the film?

• Max Denbigh mentions that he doesn't like people who has a "License to Kill" scattered all over the world. This is a nod to the Bond film starring Timothy Dalton.

• Franz Oberhauser's scar and detail is reminiscent of Donald Pleasence's version from "For Your Eyes Only". His cat, who is of the same species and appearance in both movies, is another reference.

• Le Chiffre (Mads Mikkelsen, Casino Royale), Dominic Green (Mathieu Amalric, Quantum of Solace), Raul Silva (Javier Bardem, Skyfall), Vesper Lynd (Eva Green, Casino Royale) and the original M (Judi Dench) have all appeared indirectly through photographs and mentions. Nice references to wrap up a lot of things.

• The line "No Mr. Bond, I expect you to die." was mentioned in both Goldfinger and Spectre. However, Auric Goldfinger uttered the quote instead of Blofeld in the original. How Blofeld tortured Bond is also similar in looks to the one seen in Goldfinger.

• Bond's disguise in the intro, as well as the same costume seen in the poster, is an honor to the late Geoffrey Holder, who played Baron Samedi (not the same character from Heroes) in the film "Live and Let Die". Holder died on October 5, last year, so this may be a tribute to his character.

• In the scene wherein Bond discovers Mr. White dying of thallium radiation, White shares information regarding SPECTRE and in return, he must protect his daughter. There is a chess board on the table, and like a scene from "From Russia with Love", Bond encounters a SPECTRE agent while and is challenged in a game of Chess.

TOTAL = 14 (+3) / 25 (Okay?)

Despite scene-stealing performances from Daniel Craig and Christpoh Waltz and a truly top-notch cinematography, Spectre sacrifices pure originality and high-octaned excitement for snail-paced jibber-jabber mixed with overly familiar ideas.

Even though we might have been bored out of our minds by the stretched out duration, there are some redeeming qualities, and of course we know Blofeld is in MI6 custody, so we might see him popping-up somewhere along the way. In the meantime, sorry for the incredibly late post, and for a really lengthy one. With that, cheers to you readers!

Relative Happiness, A Feel Good Rom-Com!

Relative Happiness (2015)

Rated PG (For Minimal Sensitive Content)

Running Time: 94 minutes (1 hour and 34 minutes)

Genre/s: Adaptation, Comedy, Drama, Romance

Released on November 16, 2014 (Limited Release Only) and Will Be Released Again on December 9, 2015 (PH Re-Release Date)

Relative Happiness is produced by Wreckhouse Productions and Lady Hammond Entertainment. It is distributed by Solar Pictures.

Writers: Sherry White, Iain Macleod, Lesley Crewe and Deanne Fowley

Director: Deanne Fowley

Starring:

• Melissa Bergland as Lexie Ivy

• Aaron Poole as Joss

• Jonathan Sousa as Adrian

• Mary Lewis as Cynthia Ivy

• Molly Dunsworth as Gabby Ivy

There's no recipe for love. Welcome once more to Dateline Movies, and boy, there are a lot of movies we don't even know about but contains loads of potential. Thank goodness again for Solar Pictures for allowing us the opportunity to promote Relative Happiness. This film actually won several awards, including Best Picture and Best Actress, so this definitely isn't your standard everyday romantic comedy.

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What the movie is about?

Lexie Ivy, played by Bergland (Winner and Losers) owns the Ivy Cottage Bed and Breakfast, and she loves to bake and to eat. Her sister, Gabby, played by Dunsworth (Septic Man), is about to be wed in less than two weeks, and her mother Cynthia, played by Lewis (Republic of Doyle), wants Lexie to find a date before Gabby's wedding. This leads to Lexie facing internal turmoil and a journey in search of a love she most certainly needs.

Even if a handyman named Joss, played by Poole (Strange Empire) is probably the only person who might win her heart, Lexie does not feel the same way. However, when the suave Adrian, played by Sousa (Kidnap Capital) drops by for a stay at Ivy's place and seemingly has some affections for her. Has Lexie finally found the love of her life?

Well obviously this feels like we have hit one more familiar territory, with the entire premise of "looking for love in all the wrong places" trope, but come on, the trailer at least provided some funny moments sure to keep you entertained. In case you are wondering, Relative Happiness is available in selected cinemas in Metro Manila.

And now a little bit of Melissa Bergland from an interview made by The Web Magazine with the star herself. 

Melissa Bergland was born in Adelaide, Australia.  You may have seen this cherry-red hair, cat-eye glass, plus-sized girl from the 2nd Avenue hit television series "Winners and Losers" where she plays the role of Jenny Gross.  She does not only acts well but also is keen into music, having such a wonderful mezzo alto voice.  She has certainly come a long way since she started thinking of going into films.

In 2013, Melissa Bergland has signed a contract with major management film outlet, the LA-based Untitled Entertainment which also manages superstars like Madonna, Jared Leto, Ashton Kutcher, Naomi Watts, Daniel-Day Lewis, Hilary Swank, Penelope Cruz and Simon Baker, among others.  And now a major role in a feature film for Melissa Bergland will be released in the Philippines titled RELATIVE HAPPINESS.

Although she may not have the curves of Scarlett Johansson or the looks of Charlize Theron, Melissa Bergland admits that what makes her lovable and more adorable to people is her character, just like Jenny Gross, funny and weird.  The Hollywood Reporter calls her "the next Rebel Wilson"

When interviewed by popular magazine WHO, Melissa Bergland stresses the fact that although she may be a size-16 actress, she will not give in into Hollywood thin ideals or lose weight.  Not just yet.  She says that she has a wonderful career right now and she has no intention of changing anything.  Being what you are is the best thing.

In the film RELATIVE HAPPINESS, Bergland plays the role of 30-year old Lexie Ivy, the proud and happy owner of Ivy’s Bed & Breakfast. She is desperately in need of a date to accompany her to her sister’s wedding day. Then comes Adrian, a handsome and quite charming guest who visits Ivy's Bed and Breakfast and who seems to show an interest in her. Lexie thinks that Adrian is the answer to all her problems, but she misinterprets the situation and is now falling apart again due to the sudden turn of events, believing her romantic dream is forever slipping away. What Lexie really needs to do is open up her heart and eyes and just see that the love she may be looking for, may be just a lot closer than she thought.

Catch RELATIVE HAPPINESS in theaters and make your holiday merrier and funnier!

Dateline Movies Goes to Ballet Manila's Pinocchio

Did I ever imagine I would enjoy watching a ballet show? Honestly no, but from the time I watched Ballet Manila's Tatlong Kuwento ni Lola Basyang with my family, I knew I will be coming back for more. Last Sunday, I watched Ballet Manila's Pinocchio - a timeless story of hope set in dance.

Most of us would associate the story of Pinocchio with the nose growing longer when lies are told. Beyond the lessons learned from untruthfulness however lies more lessons about unending hope even for the impossible and the good things that await those who are true, brave, and unselfish.

Pinocchio is choreographed by Osias Barroso, the Co-Artistic Director of Ballet Manila. From a 50-Minute Christmas ballet, Pinocchio is now staged into two full acts with the addition of a segment that is set in Pleasure Island. This in itself is very entertaining because of the inclusion of what I believe to be real circus performers. I am talking about real-life entertainers like acrobats, stilt walkers, and jugglers doing what they professionally do for the most of their lives. It's like watching two shows in one.

Scenes like these that showed much work for special effects were loudly applauded. The set design was impressive. Even the music felt part of every scene. When Tippy Dos Santos belted out "When You Wish Upon a Star" as the Pink Fairy/Storyteller, the audience clearly gave their approval. It should be noted that this song eventually became the representative song of The Walt Disney Company although it was originally written for Walt Disney's 1940 adaptation of Pinocchio.

Ballet Manila Artistic Director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde wanted a ballet that would be timeless and appealing to children. She got more than she wanted because judging from the audience's reaction that day, the show captures the hearts of both the young and not-so-young. If there is anything that the story of Pinocchio will leave with us is that wishes do come true at the proper time. Thus it would be best to keep the child within us alive. 

Bravo Pinocchio!

With the air filled with holiday cheer, the whole family can head straight to the carnival fun rides after enjoying the show. All ‘Pinocchio’ ticket holders are entitled to free tickets to Star City.

Celebrate the holidays with Pinocchio, Geppeto and Jimminy Cricket in Osias Barroso’s “Pinocchio,. Shows are on November 27, 28 and December 5 at 8:00 p.m.; November 29 and December 6 at 3:00 p.m, at Aliw Theater in Pasay City. Tickets are available at all Ticketworld outlets, online at www.ticketworld.com.ph, or call 891 9999.


Special rates for group bookings are available. Schools, companies and organizations can get specially priced tickets for fund-raising events and other holiday activities. For inquiries, call (02 552 7502 or email info@balletmanila.com.ph.

Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo, Producers' Cut!

Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo (2015)

Rated PG-13 (For Violence)

Running Time: 99 minutes (1 hour and 39 minutes)

Genre/s: Action, Biographical, Drama, Historical

Released on December 25, 2014 (Original Film PH Release Date) and on November 25, 2015 (PH Re-Release Date)

Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo Producers’ Cut is produced by Fernando Ortigas for Tuko Films Productions and Eduardo Rocha for Buchi Boy Films. It is distributed by Solar Entertainment.

Writers: Keiko Aquino, Carlo Obispo and Enzo Williams

Director: Enzo Williams

Starring:

• Robin Padilla as Andres Bonifacio
• Vina Morales as Gregoria De Jesus/Oriang
• Eddie Garcia as The Curator of the Museum of Philippine Political History
• Daniel Padilla as Joaquin
• Jasmine Curtis-Smith as Andrea
• RJ Padilla as Gary
• Jericho Rosales as Dr. Jose Rizal

Hindi pa tapos ang rebolusyon! (The revolution is not yet over!) Maligayang pagbati sa inyo mga kaibigan, (Welcome friends) and today we will give recognition to the filming industry of the Philippines. Don't get me wrong, almost all the mainstream movies in our country is indeed far from stellar, but there have been a few hidden gems. Take this film as an example. The movie which has been released last year 2014, will be re-released by our dear old friends at Solar Pictures, who you might remember tasked us to talk about Ghoul last time. In commemoration of Bonifacio Day this coming November 30, Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo Producers’ Cut which is produced by Fernando Ortigas for Tuko Films Productions and Eduardo Rocha for Buchi Boy Films and distributed by Solar Entertainment, opens last Wednesday, November 25 in select cinemas in SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, SM Manila, SM Fairview, and SM Sta. Mesa.

Source

What is the movie about?

Told through the eyes of Joaquin, Andrea and Gary, played by Daniel and RJ Padilla (Sa Ngalan Ng Ama, Ina, at Mga Anak) and Curtis-Smith (Resureksyon) respectively, the movie follow the three classmates uncovering the truths about Andres Bonifacio, a national hero, through flashbacks. They were aided by a Curator, played by Garcia (Bwakaw), who wants the students to know the truth.

Following the capture of Dr. Jose Rizal, played by Rosales (ABNKKBSNPLAko?!) Andres Bonifacio, played by Robin Padilla (10,000 Hours), formed the Filipino revolutionary organization known as the Katipunan or the KKK - Samahang Kataastaasan, Kagalanggalang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan, to ensure the freedom of his fellow countrymen. Amidst the turmoil brought upon by the chaos, Bonifacio persuades the Filipinos to start an open rebellion, and later on finds supports in his then-beloved Gregoria De Jesus, who operates under the name Aling Oriang, played by Morales ('Di Puwedeng Hindi Pwede).

However, internal disarray erupts as the Spaniards left a trail of rebel bodies in the wake of the organization's emergence. Not only that, a power play for the leadership of Bonifacio's comrades is occurring, and it looks as if his friends see him more now as an enemy than as a commander. Bonifacio must gather his wits and lead the people to freedom!

History lessons are never going to be boring again, as this is clearly a sign that stories such as this one can be made entertaining, thought-provoking and creative at the same time. Did we mention that there is a possibility of making a shared universe with the property? Well technically it is bizarre, and it could most certainly be challenging, but who knows? Maybe it could be as good as the Marvel Cinematic Universe or the DC Shared Universe.

Anyway, be sure to check out the producers' cut of the award-winning film.  It won the Best Picture Category in last year's Metro Manila Film Festival and again this year, it won recognition at FAMAS and Star Awards.  Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo Producers' Cut will be bigger, better and more action-packed and contains new-never-before-seen footages from its main star Robin Padilla. It will be shown with English subtitles.  It's local release will coincide with its US premier in New York this November 30.  Earlier this year, the movie has its European premier in Barcelona, Spain and was commended with a standing ovation.   That is really a great news for everyone.  This is what the local film industry has been waiting for ... a chance to prove itself.  Seriously guys check it out and with that, I bid thee farewell!