Broken Hearts Trip: Funny with a Chance of Cry

Just got off the cinema for the film Broken Hearts Trip, an entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival 2023 of BMC Films and Smart Films. This is their red carpet premiere, so the cast trooped to the Gateway Cineplex and walked with celebrity guests, media and online entities.

To tell you honestly, I got the notion that this was going to be greatly comedy content. The ensemble cast names already asked for that, but no, this is not the usual slapstick flick. As you saw in the trailers, this is a full blown reality game show aimed to change the lives of different LGBTQIA++ folks from different backgrounds. From auditions, actual game and eliminations, they all go through challenges and try to win money to change their lives. That's also where most of it is going to be crazy.

I would go to lengths and admit that I've had several bouts of tears in my eyes watching this, but I would give it to Petite Brockovich who plays Mark. Her character was quite stellar in the first half, and even though she possesses a ton and a half of funny bones, her dramatic moments hit me like a ton of bricks when her plot gets divulged. Her partner in the movie is equally intense, it's like a boiling pot waiting to spill over. It's something I felt a connection with, and you've got Teejay Marquez, Marvin Yap, Ms. Iyah Mina and Direk Andoy Ranay to choose from. Chances are, you'll feel like one of them during your watch. Everyone's eyes will get wet in one scene or another, because I saw a few people beside me cry too but with the character of Direk, Iya Mina and Teejay instead (though they'll never admit wiping it off in the dark lol). Here's our coverage at the red carpet on video!

 This might get them a chance to win ensemble award or even best supporting actress. It's not a dud, they're definitely a contender with what I saw earlier. It's got fun, laughter, very relatable characters and you'll get to learn not to judge people. After all, you don't know what they've been through. You don't need to walk in their shoes, but just have heart when you need to. Their support cast delivered too, a good platform to showcase how they didn't shortchange acting prowess in this project. I got a little sad about Christian Bables feeling a little afraid that this might not do well in the box office (which he mentioned after the movie, maybe he looked around on promos), but I beg to differ. It's PG, a place where even kids with parents or guardians could watch. Hopefully, people get to see this for its credits. It's quirkiness is it's selling point, a good LGBTQIA film made to realize that they could be anyone of you.  

The film may have been a huge surprise to be included in the list of entries, but I think I know why after watching the film. This has a lot of components in it, which may lead you frantically finding funny, but instead give you something even more than that... it has HEART.

Congratulations to the cast and the creators! You made me cry.  

The 12 Days of DureX-MAS Naughty or Nice Event

One awesome night with some of the nicest people, that's what I would describe the event a few nights ago. At the Ugly Duck White Rabbit place at Poblacion in Makati. They had us experience a different Christmas event, filled with pleasurable experiences, with the star of the show DUREX and their 12 Days of DureX-MAS. They showcased their various products, a good day to somehow break stereotypes that this doesn't get talked about much in the open - and educating people about its use. It was already fun, but they had us at the edge of our seats when the drag queens from RPDR PH went out to perform! 

There were tons of people out there from all walks of life, different generations. While we all used to squirm about talking about these in the past, I've seen a huge change in how people became quite receptive. Add to that, the entertainment that Matilda, Arizona Brandy, Miss Jade So, Bernie and Marina Summers brought to the event that evening, it was just made of dreams. If you haven't seen these queens perform, I'm telling you, you better do. Our queens were definitely world class! 

Here's a short video of what transpired that evening!

Thank you so much to the wonderful people of DUREX for having us that evening! It was well worth the trip to the center of Makati's Poblacion district, and started that needed conversation. 

Super fun!

NUNA Launches First PH Store at Greenbelt 5 Makati

A few days ago, Nuna, the worldwide leader in premium quality baby gear just opened up shop at the fabulous Greenbelt 5 in Makati. This is part of their growth plans to make their presence felt in the region and make Filipinos see, feel and touch their best and expertly crafted baby gear in this side of the world. They are first and foremost a Dutch brand, so you would be able to now see in their stores exquisite craftsmanship, timeless designs, as each piece is engineered to cater to the needs of your precious baby.

Here's our video coverage of the launch

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Bueno (@kumagcow)

From baby cribs, carriers, push chairs and home products, they'll be on display now at the 3rd floor of Greenbelt 5. This was also witnessed by Richprime Global Inc. and Europlay Distributor's Myrna Yao, their CEO, Lisa Yao their Managing Director, and Greenbelt's very own GM Iza Arcilla plus Marc Ambrocio the OM. 

Celebrities like our boy Rocco Nacino, his wife Melissa Gohing and their cute son Ezren, Model Businessman Fabio Ide and his wife model Danielle Mikayla Oca, Patrick Sugui and wife Aeriel Garcia, plus a few celebrity and mommy influencers also were present to cut the ribbon and share their experiences in using their various Nuna products which they swear have changed their parenting lives. If you have time, drop by their shop and ask what could best fit you and your kids lifestyle.

A Sweet foodpanda Deal at Tim Hortons

It was super fun at Tim Hortons Silver City

I often order food via foodpanda, even groceries on a regular basis. I love the huge deals, the vouchers and free delivery offers would save me a trip to the malls, to keep myself off the holiday rush and traffic. Whenever I do go out, I make sure that every trip is worth it. That's what I did on this day.

Together with foodies, deal seekers, coffee lovers, we all got to go to Tim Hortons to get our food and beverage fix. See, foodpanda is hooking us up because from now until the 21st of this month, foodpanda sweetens festive deals for users with limited Tim Hortons® offers a dine in feature like never before. They are offering up to 50% discount and a FREE Paupau Plushie Keyring from participating Tim Hortons branches this holiday season. You can also enjoy up to 15 off your actual bill after that date.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Bueno (@kumagcow)

Ms. Patricia Jacinto the Growth and Marketing Director of foodpanda Philippines says "We have always been loving the ways we deliver food for our customers, fast and efficient. We warmly welcome world renowned food brand Tim Hortons in our roster of Dine In partner establishments as they make your coffee, beverage, donut, and food dreams come true. With our app, you can save as much as 50% and get exclusive merch too. As our online delivery platform grows, we want Filipinos to have the Dine In options and give them tons of savings during the holiday season."

Now there's more reason to get your Double Double, Iced French Vanilla and Honey Crullers like what I usually do when I vist Tims. I get to have the fluffy Paupau plushie too and use it for my bags as accessories. Remember, it's only around for a limited time! Don't say I didn't tell you!