TOPAKK: An Intense Action Masterpiece with ARJO ATAYDE and JULIA MONTES for MMFF 2024

Watching TOPAKK on the silver screen was the best decision I've ever made this Metro Manila Film Fest 2024 season.

 Why you'd ask? Simple, it wouldn't feel the same if I'd watch this simply on digital or streaming platforms. It gives a different vibe, of almost 2 hours of intense, violent, brutal, savage, rough and aggressive scenes all put together by Director Richard Somes, same guy who brought you OTJ, Ekis, and more eccentric action films in Philippine cinema. You've got that a bit expected yeah, but the topic, intimacy of describing PTSD in a structured military environment and how people suffer all throughout their life is something else to think and talk about... this was a venue to know more about it and they've managed to put that in the story.

 Arjo Atayde, Julia Montes, Sid Lucero in one film concept wise is quite crazy (and is not the sole reason why this is called TOPAKK). Their stellar performances in different projects alone is something that would inspire an "actors actor". While Arjo carries good looks, this movie gives him major rawness. The closeups filled with his small freckles on screen was noticed, and absolutely lovely to see aesthetically since this is a bit dark, dingy and gloomy especially on the last scenes at the steel warehouse. I would gladly compare his role to John Wick, but again, very raw and local. You could see how he showcases his struggles, which I'd bet be better with a dog (for maybe a sequel). His acting chops are unquestionable, being Best Lead Actor at ContentAsia Awards was evident. He evolves wherever he gets into a role, and you'll admire his tenacity to live, not just for himself but for others. 

Julia Montes is an action star. Gone are the crying drama princess roles she's been in the past years, because she is as intense as anybody on that set. Her knack for conversations complemented each and every single time she'd want to take revenge, throw a punch, smash someone's f4ce on the metal platforms just to make sure people felt her intensity to love them dearly. She definitely did not shortchange with the physical requirements that this role entailed or required, and you'll root for her. She's got a cause (that involves Kokoy De Santos) and it makes her hunger for changing her life inevitable. With the help of Arjo's character, their once not so connected lives begin to complement each other. You'll know why when you watch TOPAKK.

Here's what happened at the red carpet premiere!

You'll see some of the roles may have been brief, but don't be mistaken, all of these are essential. Congratulations also to stars Enchong Dee, Kokoy De Santos, and the ensemble cast (especially the bad guys) who performed well. You'll love this so much for the cast, the story line and it's cause.

This has had lots of rave reviews abroad, bringing this home was serendipitous, had a lot of promise, and they'll give you what you asked for. This is super apt for this year's Metro Manila Film Festival, it gives us viewers the OPTIONS we deserve. The R18 rating I think is because of the violence and gore, but the R16 version won't feel like it ain't enough. This also stars Vin Abrenica, Cholo Barretto, Bernard Palanca, Ms. Maureen Mauricio, so there's more to the story.

If you miss action movies, want to see your favorite actors do different things from the usual, you need to see TOPAKK. This and other entries in the MMFF 2024 are so good, but you definitely should have this on your list because you'll have your action thirst be extinguished, you get to feel you're part of it and feel tired because you've been in the middle of the scenes all along. Congratulations to Nathan Studios, Sir Art, Ms. Sylvia, Gela, Ria, and Arjo for such an amazing piece. Here's hoping they get a nod come awards night because from the looks of it, they do deserve it!

Though there might be some flaws in effects and story, forgivable. They still got the message across and sustained it's intensity all throughout the film. For Arjo, Julia Montes, and the sheer brutality this presents, it made me still choose this film to have 4 out of 5 Cows. 🐮🐮🐮🐮

PS. That float you had during the parade was amazing!

Potential Runaway Winner "GREEN BONES" is GMA's Entry for MMFF 2024

"Green Bones" stars during the premiere night (photos by Kapuso PR Girl on FB) 

While I was not able to watch the screening or participate in Green Bones press conference a couple days ago, I'm quite sure they're bringing their guns out for GMA's entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival 2024. Why? The cast includes Dennis Trillo and Ruru Madrid, not to mention an ensemble cast of award winning actors like Alessandra de Rossi, Michael de Mesa, Iza Calzado, Nonie Buencamino plus the same people who worked on hit film "Firefly" that won Best Picture and Best Screenplay last year. Top caliber actors like them would just have this for a snack because no doubt, Dennis Trillo will surely perform above and beyond expectations. He plays the role of Domingo Zamora, a man who got jailed because of the murder of his own sister. Ruru on the other hand will be depicting Xavier Gonzaga who's a committed prison guard who ultimately wants Zamora to remain locked up, no matter what it takes. 

While the story would have begged for action sequences, it delves more into drama surrounding the myth behind green bones, where their remains become the measure of their goodness/virtue. Ruru's character won't be believing Zamora's change, because he's got history with matters of senseless crimes, as his own sister was a victim of it. 

This will be quite interesting to see because from the looks of those who have watched it in advanced screenings, people were trying their best not to cry, but failed miserably. This is the handy work of the same "Firefly" director Zig Dulay who's undoubtedly done remarkable pieces on TV with the likes of "Maria Clara at Ibarra" and "Sahaya" amongst his stellar work that won awards in different festivals here and abroad. Not to mention the work poured in by GMA Public Affairs' JC Rubio, legendary writer and National Artist Ricky Lee and last year's Best Screenplay victor Anj Atienza. They are also with some of my favorite actors Mikoy Morales, Royce Cabrera, Kylie Padilla, Victor Neri, Ruby Ruiz, Sofia Pablo, Sienna Stevens and Enzo Osorio plus more on their ensemble cast. I wouldn't be surprised why this was already tapped by Columbia Pictures which is the flagship distribution unit of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group. They'll be handling international release for it which just tells how qualified this Filipino film is in winning even more categories this year!

This is in celebration of the 50th year Anniversary of the MMFF, congratulations GMA and to all the artists! You've got something special coming out this Christmas and the whole family can watch it as it is rated G!

Holiday Stream Treats from LG: RED ONE on Prime Video

Looks like the holidays will be extra fun as LG announced that Prime subscribers would be able to stream one of the biggest action packed film this year "RED ONE". This would be available on your LG Smart TV if you are in over 200 countries that it's available in. This stars the toughest Dwayne The Rock Johnson, the lovely Lucy Liu, JK Simmons, and everyone's guy Chris Evans. The film is produced by Amazon MGM Studios, Seven Bucks Productions, The Detective Agency and Chris Morgan Productions. 

The first peek will be available at LG.com and various digital venues like Piccadilly Circus in London, and at the New York City Times Square. LG also sponsored their premiere at the Lincoln Theater, with state of the art LG TV's that's got Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos audio. This is the handy work of their director Jake Kasdan. With their OLED Displays, you get to experience immersive viewing like no other. LG believes this is essential, and would warrant more partnerships in the future. Again, this is now on Prime video, go stream it today if you are on Primertme. I'm quite excited for what's about to happen in the future!

Give The Gift with Meaningful Connections: Globe AT HOME 5G WiFi

The holidays are here and if you haven't thought about what to give to that special someone and or family, I think I've got the coolest gadget you could set your eyes on especially if you're into meaningful connections. 

Globe AT HOME 5G WiFi was just recently launched in the country. If you're looking for internet connection with 5G speeds, this certainly would be something you would love to have when family or friends are not around. Sending messages, hearing their voice, or simply seeing them on video would certainly make you happy, and distance between you feel quite shorter. The new Globe AT HOME 5G WiFi modems is different because it's got a display showing your signal strength, smart support which you would be able to do if trouble happens. It doesn't need wires to connect to it, and being wireless is so convenient for guests, visitors, students and even family. It looks so modern too, and it'll fit right in on your house's interiors if you are a little conscious about design. I know, sometimes gadgets take a lot of space and become an eyesore, but this modem is slim and quite nice looking. 

Easy Connections

If you're the type that always entertain a lot of guests in the house, you can have the WiFi connection shared just by showing them a QR code directly from the LCD screen of the modem. You need not blurt out your passwords to strangers, so you have control over your network. Best thing about it is that Globe is so confident about it that are offering this for a week risk free, so if you're not satisfied with how it performs (with the 5G WiFi), you can return it and get a refund (in good condition of course!). They are also in a very giving mood so during the holidays they have a Php 899 rate for 250GB which you can use for 30 days. 

According to the Vice President and Head of Brand Management for Globe AT HOME Ms. Abigail Cardino, this is designed for customers varying needs and their lifestyle. If you are at work or simply doing things at home, you can use the new 5G WiFi Modem for work and play. You can avail of it via globe.com.ph, make the holidays become an event where you don't have to worry about internet connection,  but just the meaningful connections you have with your loved ones. Wouldn't you want that for the holidays?!