HOOQ partners with Viva for "Ulan" block screening

I became a fan of Nadine Lustre when I got to watch  "Never Not Love You"  with real life partner James Reid last year. It was my first time to a  #Jadine movie. Judging from that alone, Nadine Lustre, has the making of a good actress. She can act, no doubt. That's why, when I learned that she leads the cast of "Ulan", I got excited at the thought of seeing her again in the big screen this time with the other leading man Carlo Aquino.

HOOQ recently had a block screening of Ulan in partnership with Viva Films last March 13 at The Podium Mall. The event was attended by HOOQ executives and leading star Ms. Nadine Lustre. The movie is still showing at your favorite theatre.

The launch of Ulan marks HOOQ’s fourth anniversary in the Philippines with a major collaboration with Viva Films


HOOQ, the largest Video-on-Demand service in Southeast Asia, has announced its first foray into Filipino originals with Ulan, a romantic drama starring this generation’s biggest and brightest stars in Filipino cinema – Nadine Lustre and Carlo Aquino.

Ulan is HOOQ’s first Original Movie from the Philippines, in partnership with one of the country’s most renowned and respected production companies, Viva Films.

Ulan will be playing in all major cinemas nationwide from March 13.



Speaking about the upcoming HOOQ Original Movie, Jennifer Batty, Chief Content Officer of HOOQ, said, “This is a significant milestone for HOOQ and HOOQ Originals. We are continiuing with our promise to bring the very best content from the most promising and talented actors, scriptwriters and directors in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia. Ulan is already one of the most highly anticipated titles of the year, and the first of many more HOOQ Original Movies to come.  To partner with Viva on our 1st HOOQ OriginaI film is super exciting.  Viva is a power house here and we look forward to doing more with them in the future. ”

Nadine Lustre, one of the country’s most promising actors, takes on a more challenging role as she embarks on a unique and mysterious tale of love. She plays Maya, a woman fascinated with rain and has the ability to see and interact with mythical (half-horse, half-human-like) creatures called “tikbalang”.

The part of Maya in Ulan marks a breakout for Lustre as she pairs with Carlo Aquino—showcasing her depth and versatility as a leading lady. Aquino, on the other hand, plays Peter, a volunteer for a non-government organization and Maya’s love interest, wants to unearth the mysteries behind Maya’s fascination with rain- alongside co-stars Marco Gumabao and AJ Muhlach.

Sheila Paul, Country Manager of HOOQ Philippines, said, “The Philippines has an abundance of talented filmmakers that are really pushing the boundaries of the medium – in terms of storytelling, format and style. We see great promise in the market, and will continue to invest in original content in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia. Not only do we want to support local content creators, we want to encourage them to challenge conventions and develop engaging, high-quality Filipino content that we can all be proud of.”

Ulan is the fourth feature film from highly regarded Filipino Director, Irene Villamor, who continues to make waves in the local film industry with her unique style. Irene’s vision of an unconventional love story with a supernatural twist has all the makings of a future classic. She also directed Sid & Aya, Camp Sawi, and Meet Me in St. Gallen.

HOOQ’s extensive library of Filipino movies and shows include Irene’s complete catalogue of films as well as Nadine Lustre’s hits; Never Not Love You, This Time, Diary Ng Panget, On The Wings of Love, Sisterakas and Beauty and the Bestie.

HOW TO GET HOOQ
It’s easy to get HOOQ’d. Customers can simply download the HOOQ app from Apple Store or Google Play, sign up or log in, to access HOOQ’s extensive library of Hollywood and Asian hits. Smart users can enjoy a 30-day free trial. Globe mobile users can enjoy a 45-day free trial; and Globe broadband users can enjoy six months free trial. Find out more and sign up today for a complimentary trial at www.hooq.tv.

Marking HOOQ’s First Hollywood Original Series, The Oath, Tackles Tough Issues of Gang Culture and Corruption in The L.A. Police Force

HOOQ – the largest Video On Demand service in South East Asia – is proud to announce its first foray into Hollywood Originals with Crackle’s The Oath. Debuting with all 10 episodes on March 8, 2018 in the US, the series will be fully available on HOOQ 24 hours later.

Chief Content Officer of HOOQ, Jennifer Batty said, “This marks a truly significant milestone for HOOQ Originals. While we continue to blaze a trail for homegrown Asian content and talent, we are now proud to strengthen our offering and bring in the best original content that Hollywood has to offer. With established producers of gritty visual stories like Joe Halpin and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson on the team and not to mention hard hitters like Ryan Kwanten and Sean Bean, we’re confident that we’ve got a winner here. I can’t wait for you all to see it!”

Set in Los Angeles, this hard-hitting crime drama dives deep into a world of gangs made up of those sworn to protect and defend. The Oath chooses to tread where most cop dramas don’t, shedding light on corruption and “police gang” culture by examining secret societies that are nearly impossible to join. Only a select few make the cut but, once inside, members will do what they must to protect each other from enemies not only on the outside but also from within.
Created by Joe Halpin (“Hawaii Five-O”, “Secrets and Lies”), the characters and relationships in The Oath are informed by his first-hand experience working as a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputy in South Central for 18 years, 12 of which was as an undercover officer.

Chief Executive Officer of HOOQ, Peter Bithos said, “At HOOQ, we have always dedicated ourselves to bringing our subscribers the best that Asia and Hollywood have to offer. With The Oath now joining our family of HOOQ Originals, we’re proud to continue bringing the kind of stories that our customers love and continue to expect from us. This is the first of many to come.”

The Oath stars Ryan Kwanten (“True Blood”), Cory Hardrict(“American Sniper”, “Gran Torino”), Katrina Law (“Training Day”), Arlen Escarpeta (“The Magicians”), J.J Soria (“Animal Kingdom”, “The Fosters”) and “Game Of Thrones” alum, Sean Bean.

Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson (“Power”) and his G-Unit Film & Television Inc., Todd Hoffman and Dennis Kim of Storied Media Group, Anne Clements (“StartUp”) and Halpin are the producers. The series is directed by Jeff T. Thomas (“Blindspot,” “Wayward Pines”) and Luis Prieto (Kidnap, “StartUp”). The Oath is distributed by Sony Pictures Television.

MORE ON HOOQ

There is truly something for everybody this March on HOOQ’s TVOD service. Lovers of animated films can enjoy Pixar’s Coco and comic book fans can rejoice as HOOQ brings you the absolute best that the Marvel and DC Cinematic Universe has to offer with Thor: Ragnarok and Justice League. Those looking to make a trip to a galaxy far, far away can eagerly await the arrival of Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi and, finally, for the nostalgic lovers of 90s cinema, the highly successful Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle would be a winning choice.

Country Manager of HOOQ Philippines, Sheila Paul, said: “It will be a very exciting month for movie buffs at HOOQ! We are very excited to bring these movies fresh from the cinema that the whole family will enjoy. They’re perfect viewing on road trips this summer and when you’re just chilling at home.”

HOOQ, welcomes the arrival of the Year of the Fire Rooster with a free screening of MANO PO 7: CHINOY at the Globe Iconic Store

HOOQ Hangouts presents the block screening of Mano Po 7: Chinoy at the BGC Globe Ampitheatre last February 4.  Mano Po leading stars Richard Yap and Jean Garcia together with HOOQ and Globe executives graced the event.

MANO PO 7: Chinoy features a star-studded ensemble cast led by Richard Yap, Jessy Mendiola, Enchong Dee and Jake Cuenca. It also stars Jean Garcia, Eric Quizon, Kean Cipriano, Janella Salvador and Marlo Mortel. Mano Po 7 is fresh from it’s theatrical release last December.

HOOQ Hangouts, presented by Globe Live in cooperation with Samsung, is a series of outdoorscreening events that showcases HOOQ’s vast library of carefully curated content.

“We chose Mano Po 7 for this month’s HOOQ Hangouts not only to celebrate the Chinese New Year but also to emphasize that HOOQ will be the first to have the newest local movies after their theatrical run,” says  Jane Cruz-Walker, Country Manager of HOOQ Philippines.

“Now movie fans don’t have to wait as long since we will try to make it available on HOOQ as soon as possible.Mano Po 7 whichwas released in cinemas last month will be on HOOQ by this summer.” adds Walker.

HOOQ subscribers can now enjoy over1,200 Filipino movies spanning almost five decades of film making, and over 4,000 hours of local television leaving other video-in-demand services way behind in terms of Filipino content.

Among the most anticipated movies that will soon be available only to HOOQ subscribers include; CampSawi, I Love You To Death, That Thing Called Tanga Na, My Rebound Girl, The Escort, Bakit Lahat ng Guwapo May Boyfriend?, Working Beks and Mano Po 7: Chinoy.

In addition, viewers can also watch catch up episodes of the latest GMA 7 TV series including Alyas Robinhood; Someone To Watch Over Me; Meant To Be; Ika-Anim na Utos and more in the coming months.

“As the exclusive presenter of the Metro Manila Film Festival, we will soon have the 2016 MMFF top grosser Die Beautiful and the Nora Aunor starrer Kabiseraavailable on HOOQ. The rest of the entries will also soon find its way onto HOOQ!” Says Jeffrey Remigio, HOOQ Philippines 

THE HUB OF HOMEGROWN CONTENT

Besides having thousands of foreign movies and TV series, HOOQ is the prime destination for Filipino entertainment on demand with the largest library of local movies amongst any video-on-demand service in the country.

“Pinoy films and TV shows are closest to our hearts because it tells the stories of our lives and we can all relate to them.  That’s why it’s so importantly for us to continuously enrich our growing library with more quality local content from the top Philippine production studios,” Cruz-Walker added. “One of which is Erik Matti’s On The Job:The Series, co-produced with Globe Studios, which will be the very first local production to be exclusively shown on a video on demand service.” 

From romantic flicks such as JaDine’s Diary ng Panget and This Time, John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo One More Chance, Close To You and The Mistress; Pinoy action blockbusters such as On The Job, Muro Ami, FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano; thrillers Feng Shui, Sukob, Shake Rattle and Roll series and The Healing; to comedies like Sisterakas, Kimmy Dora, Wang Fam, My Amnesia Girl and Girl,Boy,Bakla, Tomboyare all on HOOQ.

HOOQ is also home to a rich collection of independent titles such as Metro Manila, Sonata, Six Degrees Of Separation From Lilia Cuntapay, Zombadings, Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros; and the works of top Filipino directors such as Erik Matti, Peque Gallaga, Aureus Solito, Jade Castro, Real Florido and award-winning writers Moira Lang, Antoinette Jadaone and Michiko Yamamoto.

HOOQ has over 10,000 movies and TV shows available for streaming or download. Globe At Home customers can get up to 6 months access to HOOQ with plans P1,299 and up, while Globe mobile customers can also get up to 6 months trial on selected prepaid and postpaid plans.   You may also visit www.hooq.tv to sign up for a 7-day free trial. 

Watch free movies on your phone through HOOQ’s new ad-free freemium service

If you are fond of watching movies on the go.  Then you'll definitely love downloading free movies on your mobile. With the traffic along the metro,  the first thing that you would notice when youre riding the MRT/LRT train and or FX/Van is everyone's hook on their mobile watching their favorite movies or TV series. Finally, HOOQ offers their new Ad-Free Freemium app for everyone to enjoy.

HOOQ recently launched their new app Ad-Free Freemium last October 6 together with Celebrity ambassador Miss World 2013 Megan Young at Karrivin Plaza, Pasong Tamo Makati.

HOOQ Celebrity Ambassador Ms.Megan Young

HOOQ, Asia’s first and largest premium video-on-demand service,  unveils its new app and the first of its kind hybrid model ad-free freemium service that allows more customers to try out the service.  The SVOD service that was built in Asia for Asia takes on a mobile-first user experience to cater to the voracious demands of mobile users.

AD-FREE FREEMIUM APP
This new hybrid model now allows customers to sample a premium service at no cost.  Pilot episodes of all TV series will now be free for all registered users even after their free trial period has ended. Customers can now catch pilot episodes from DC’s Legends of Tomorrow, Supergirl, Devious Maids, The Mentalist, Castle to Alyas Robin Hood, Walang Hanggan and #Jadine whenever they hit the service.  This extended sampling gives the customers the power to decide if they would like to continue to watch the rest of series before they pay for the subscription.

‘We are very excited to introduce this hybrid model as it gives customers more control over their purchase decision.  This new hybrid model is a result of what we have learnt over the past year after studying usage patterns and speaking to numerous customers and understanding what they want in a video-on-demand service.  We believe this will be a win-win strategy for both our customers and our business as it allows the customers to try the service and the content before they decide to purchase, at the same time, we have the opportunity to re-engage customers whenever we introduce our latest titles, outside of their free trial period’, said Peter Bithos, Chief Executive Officer at HOOQ.  ‘The key driver of any video-on-demand service is their content and we are confident that our offering will keep our customers HOOQ’d month after month!’ He added.

MOBILE-FIRST USER EXPERIENCE
HOOQ fans can look forward to a new app interface that boasts a mobile first UX that has been built from extensive customer beta testing and usability research to derive a customer-centric experience, given that over 80% of customers are consuming HOOQ on their mobile devices.

Designed with the habits of the social and digital natives in mind, this new mobile-first release boasts a brand new real time content feed and personalized recommendation engine that makes discovering new favorites easier than ever.  Additionally, there is an improved search engine, wish-lists (for future viewing) and optimized content delivery for significantly faster app start and streaming start times.

The new app has been in development by HOOQ’s in-house team for nearly nine months and is backboned by a new back-end framework focused on a faster and higher quality streaming experience for the customer.  In addition to the current support of iOS, Android, web, Chromecast and Android Set-top Box, HOOQ will also be available on Airplay and mobile web as part of this launch.

‘We know that our customers are mostly enjoying HOOQ on their mobile devices so it was a natural decision that we enhanced the entire HOOQ platform to give our customers a best in class mobile-first experience.  For me, one of the most exciting new features is the real time content feed that highlights our most popular content and knowing what others are watching and which titles are trending!’  said Jane Cruz-Walker, Country Manager of HOOQ Philippines

HOOQ, a start-up venture between Singtel, Sony Pictures Television and Warner Bros., is an award winning service that empowers customers with unlimited online streaming access and an offline viewing option to top Hollywood and Filipino movies and television content, on any device including computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs via Google Chromecast, Android set-top-boxes and now, also on Airplay!

How to get HOOQ

It’s easy to get HOOQ!  Sign up today on www.HOOQ.tv for a free trial.  Monthly subscriptions start from Php149.00 and soon, customers can also choose from weekly subscriptions for as low as Php59.00.

Globe Postpaid customers can get up to 45 days of free trial with Globe GoSURF 99 and below, and up to 90 days of free trial for all mobile customers availing of GoSURF 299 and up.  Broadband customers also get HOOQ for free on Globe Home Broadband.  Once the trial period expires, GoSURF customers can continue enjoying HOOQ at Php149 subscription fee monthly charged to your Globe bill.  For all other subscribers, you can either pay the Php149 monthly subscription fee through credit card or charge it to your Globe bill by texting HOOQ149 to 8888.

Jessy Mendiola PH FHM Sexiest woman graces HOOQ's First Hangout

JESSY MENDIOLA, voted the Philippines sexiest woman of 2016 by FHM, took time out from all the heat she’s been getting, as she surprised hundreds of HOOQ subscribers at the very first HOOQ HANGOUTS held Saturday at the Bonifacio Global City.

Jessy, who came in a simple pair of shorts and a black “Total Recall” shirt was accompanied by fellow HOOQ ambassador Xian Lim, who chatted with media guests and gamely posed for fans as they awaited the screening of DC Legends of Tomorrow.

FHM Hottest and HOOQs leading lady Jessy Mendiola

HOOQ Ambassador Xian Lim

HOOQ, Asia’s first and largest video-on-demand service, partners with Globe LIVE to bring to Filipinos HOOQ Hangouts, the biggest outdoor cinema event in the Phiippines. Powered by Globe LIVE, the telco’s new original productions arm, the premiere of HOOQ Hangouts featured the Hollywood TV hit, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow which will also be available exclusively on HOOQ.

HOOQ Hangouts, in cooperation with Samsung, turned the BGC Amphitheater into a free outdoor cinema venue with massive LED screens, beanbags, blankets and cushions to fully enjoy the show.HOOQ CELEBRITIES

‘HOOQ Hangouts aims to build a stronger HOOQ community by bringing them together so they can watch the best movies and hottest TV releases. This is the first of its kind for any video-on-demand service in the country. And thanks to Globe Live, we are very excited to announce that HOOQ Hangouts will now be a regular monthly event’, says Jane Cruz-Walker, Country Manager of HOOQ Philippines.

“Events like HOOQ Hangouts achieve the intent of Globe LIVE to produce quality on-ground events to create more meaningful engagements with our customers. Together with HOOQ, we are able to give everyone access to an extensive library of the best TV and movie titles making the Filipino digital lifestyle experience more wonderful,” said Globe Senior Advisor for Consumer Business Dan Horan.

Participants of HOOQ Hangouts can also enjoy on-ground entertainment, munch on free popcorn and check out on-ground activities and win raffle prizes.

When heroes alone are not enough… the world needs legends.
DC’s Legends of Tomorrow is a spin-off from equally successful TV series Arrow and The Flash, and further expands the “Arrowverse.”DC Legends of Tomorrow Cos Players DC Legends of Tomorrow 1

Having seen the future, rogue Time Master Rip Hunter is tasked with assembling a group of heroes and villains to confront an unstoppable threat — one in which not only puts the planet at stake, but all of time itself. For this seemingly impossible mission Rip brings together a ragtag team of divergent talents, which includes Sara Lance (White Canary), Jefferson Jax Jackson, Dr. Martin Stein (FireStorm), Ray Palmer (Atom), Hawkgirl, Captain Cold and Heat Wave.

DC’s Legends of Tomorrow completes HOOQ’s catalogue of DC shows which includes The Flash, Arrow, Gotham and Supergirl (also a HOOQ exclusive). All the latest seasons of these DC shows are also now available on HOOQ.DC Legends of Tomorrow 2

Also debuting this month is Lucifer, a fantasy police procedural comedy-drama series. The story revolves around Lord of Hell, Lucifer Morningstar (Tom Ellis), who abandons his throne to retire in L.A. where he owns Lux, an upscale nightclub. The charming, charismatic and devilishly handsome, Lucifer is enjoying his retirement, indulging in wine, women and song until a former “client” is brutally murdered outside Lux. Lucifer becomes involved with the LAPD when he takes it upon himself to assist Detective Chloe Decker (Lauren German) in finding the one responsible so that he can “punish them”. Lucifer is now available exclusively on HOOQ.

HOOQ subscribers can also check out other binge-worthy TV shows on HOOQ such as Damages, Selfie, Community, The Big C, Lost Girl, and Two and a Half Men which recently premiered on the service. Meanwhile, movie franchise fans will also be very delighted with the complete series from The Lord of The Rings, The Matrix and Harry Potter, now all available on HOOQ.

HOOQ is Asia’s largest video-on-demand service hosting over 10,000 movies and TV shows available for streaming or download. Globe customers can get free access to HOOQ with selected GoSURF mobile data plans and as well as Broadband Plan 1299 and up. Visit www.hooq.tv to sign up for a 7-day free trial.