ENTERTAINMENT
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2023
C3
Nickie Wang, Editor Angelica Villanueva , Writer E-mail: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
A journey through love and heartache By Angelica Villanueva
From left: Film director Irene Villamor, Julia Montes, and Alden Richards at the premiere night of 'Five Breakups and A Romance'
Julia Montes (left) and Alden Richards banner 'Five Breakups and A Romance'
PREPARE to embark on an emotional rollercoaster in Five Breakups and A Romance, a cinematic masterpiece brought to life by the acclaimed film director Irene Villamor. If you’re already familiar with her impressive body of work, you might think you know how the story ends, but be prepared to be surprised. The film unfolds the passionate tale of Lance and Justine, portrayed by Alden Richards and Julia Montes, respectively. Lance, a dedicated medical student, crosses paths with Justine, a fashion brand manager, at a friend’s party in Singapore. This heartfelt narrative is divided into five chapters, each capturing a pivotal moment in Lance and Justine’s tumultuous relationship. (Spoiler alert) From their initial one-night stand in Singapore to their heartbreaking farewell at a hospital, their journey is nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. Each chapter artfully explores a different facet of love, tackling themes like compatibility, compromise, and forgiveness. Lance and Justine’s love story began in 2016 when fate intervened and their mutual friends introduced them. For Justine,
it was a typical meet-cute, but for Lance, seeing her was akin to destiny - a case of love at first sight, or as he eloquently puts it, a “quantum entanglement.” In the film, Alden’s character beautifully explains quantum entanglement as a scientific phenomenon where two particles remain interconnected regardless of the distance between them, symbolizing the profound connection between Lance and Justine. Throughout the movie, their relationship is tested in various ways, and they bravely confront every challenge that comes their way. But did they fight for their love, or did they fight each other? Five Breakups and A Romance delves into the common causes of relationship breakups, including career pressures, time constraints, communication issues, and the specter of infidelity. We won’t reveal the details, as discovering them is part of the cinematic experience. What truly elevates Five Breakups and A Romance is the exceptional performances of Julia and Alden. Their on-screen chemistry is undeniable, from the delivery of intense lines to the passionate exchanges in a particular scene. They bring a magnetic charm to the film, making it an unforgettable experience. Julia and Alden masterfully capture the intricate dynamics of their characters’ relationship, delivering a genuinely compelling performance. In the end, Five Breakups and A Romance provides a realistic and relatable portrayal of the complexities of love and heartbreak that resonates with Filipino audiences. Five Breakups and A Romance is now showing in over 200 cinemas nationwide.
A celebration of exceptional Philippine radio
Omar reveals his plans to retire from music
UBSI Chairwoman Rebecca Ann Sy
Omar Baliw (left) and Gloc-9
Omar still crazy about music
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By Nickie Wang
MAR Baliw, a prominent figure in Filipino hip-hop, is known for his unique brand of music and his commitment to his craft. At 34 years old, he has a clear vision for his future, which includes owning a comfortable home and a farm within the next five years.
3,” under the banner of Believe Artist Services. The song is part of a series of tracks that explore the theme of calmness, which Omar says is a central message in his music. “There’s ‘Kalmado Part 1,’ 2,’ 3,’ 4,’ and it actually goes up to ‘Kalmado 12,’” he explained. “They’re all about the same theme of calmness because that’s what I always emphasize in my songs. I can’t write anything else. I always talk about how I struggled and where I am now.” O m a r ’ s journey to success
In a recent interview with Manila Standard Entertainment, Omar shared his desire to lead a more peaceful and quiet life, far from the hustle and bustle of the hip-hop industry. “I prefer a quiet life; it’s too noisy, and I’m not comfortable in front of the camera or on stage,” he said in the vernacular. “After these five years, it’s time for me to take a break.” Despite his plans to retire from music in the near future, Omar is still actively working on new projects. He recently released his latest single, “Kalmado Part
Filipino hip-hop artist Omar Baliw
has not been easy. He has faced many challenges along the way, but he has always remained focused on his
dreams. He credits his family for their unwavering support throughout his career. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without my family,” he said. “They’ve always been there for me, even when things were tough. I’m so grateful for their love and support.” In 2011, Omar released his first album, High Minds Music. The album played a pivotal role in his career. It also contributed to the growth of his business through High Minds Clothing. Omar’s rap music includes hits like “Araguy,” “Kalmado,” and “Natuto Lang.” He has collaborated with fellow Filipino rap artists, including Gloc-9, Pricetagg, CLR, and Shanti Dope. In September, Omar highlighted the benefits of joining Asitanda Management and Production Incorporated during a pre-show media event for The Concert. He praised High Minds 12th-Anniversary Concert the organized planning and the supportive environment created by the Asintada management team. He emphasized the importance of having a reliable management team in the hiphop industry, saying, “Without proper management in hip-hop, people will take advantage of you, and they’ll just disregard you. I’m now part of a good circle, and my position is great.” Omar appreciates the freedom and flexibility he has as an artist working with the management company, saying, “Asintada provides management, but you still have control over what you want to do. It’s like management, but you’re still independent.”
Taylor Swift concert film tops box office, Scorsese’s ‘Flower Moon’ impresses THE new Taylor Swift concert movie held on to the top spot in North American theaters this weekend, but history-based crime epic Killers of the Flower Moon had an impressive debut – the best for a Martin Scorsese film since 2010. Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour, distributed by AMC Theaters, took in an estimated $31 million for the Friday-through-Sunday period, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations said Sunday. That pushed the two-week domestic total for the film, which includes scenes from three of the pop superstar’s concerts, to $129.8 million. It is now the only concert film ever to top the box office for two straight weekends, Variety reported. Meantime, Scorsese’s new film had a strong debut – particularly given its three-and-a-half-hour runtime, its upcoming release on streamer Apple TV+, and the inability of stars Robert
De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio to promote it as the actors strike continues – taking in $23 million. Flower Moon tells the true story of the murders of Native Americans in Oklahoma early in the last century by evildoers after their oil rights. In third spot for the weekend, down from second, was Universal’s horror film Exorcist: The Believer, at $5.6 million. Leslie Odom Jr. and Ann Dowd star in this scary sequel to the 1973 original. Fourth place went to Paramount’s family-friendly animation Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie, at $4.5 million. Taraji P. Henson, Chris Rock, Serena Williams, and McKenna Grace voice the super-pups. And in fifth was Disney’s rerelease of 1993 classic The Nightmare Before Christmas, at $4.1 million. Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, and Catherine O’Hara star in Tim Burton’s dark stop-motion fantasy. AFP
'Killers of the Flower Moon' stars Leonardo DiCaprio (left) and Lily Gladstone
ENERGY FM, one of Philippine FM radio’s powerhouses, turns 25 this October. For a quarter of a century, it has been redefining what it means to be among the leading radio stations in the Philippines. What began as a simple regional program transformed into the heartbeat of the nation through the leadership and vision of Ultrasonic Broadcasting Systems Inc. (UBSI) Chairwoman, Rebecca Ann Sy. Energy FM quickly became a nationwide anthem as more and more Filipinos tuned in. Weekdays in the early 2000s were overflowing with endless entertainment from Energy FM’s legendary radio jockeys. The station bagged several KBP Golden Awards in the People’s Choice category across Manila, Cebu, and Naga. In 2010, Energy FM entered the digital landscape and in the frequency of modern listeners. It pioneered the introduction of K-pop to the Philippines through its segment “KPOP Sarap.” Recently, Energy FM bagged the top accolades in the country and across the Asia-Pacific, namely, Most Outstanding & Trusted FM Station in the 2022 Asia’s Golden Icon Awards; Most Outstanding FM Station in the 2022 Asian Sterling Awards; Best FM Radio Station in the 33rd Asia Pacific Excellence Awards Thailand; and Global Iconic Radio Broadcasting Station of the Year from Global Iconic Aces. Energy FM has stood out with its impressive roster of engaging personalities beloved by many listeners. Papa Jackson joins Energy FM with his signature charm and relatability. He quickly makes a deep audience impact in his main show Hello STG (Sorry, Thank You, Goodbye). His skills and passion eventually brought him the position of station manager - as John Gemperle, shaping the success of the station beyond the mic. Gandang Kara enters the airwaves, bringing in a new perspective and her online following. Her vibrant approach and unique insights shine in Sincerely, Kara and KarJack – her shared program with Papa Jackson. Along with fresh voices are trailblazers in the booths of Energy FM. In a show that explores deep secrets and heartfelt letters, Lindsay creates a safe space during Lihim ng Liham through her soothing voice, compelling storytelling, and genuine empathy. While Anong Drama Mo excels in stirring up laughter in the midst of valuable life lessons, all thanks to the charismatic duo of DJs Sheena and Jimbo. As Energy FM celebrates its 25th year, each program and talent broadcast the station’s commitment to setting the bar of exceptional Philippine radio.