Chris Evans and Dakota Fanning's 'Push' Is the Underrated 2000s Superhero Thriller You Need to Watch

 

Psychic warfare meets gritty rebellion in Push—Chris Evans’ criminally overlooked pre-MCU cult favorite.

Long before he wielded the iconic shield as Captain America, Chris Evans starred in an ambitious, mind-bending superhero thriller that has flown under the radar for far too long. Push (2009), directed by Paul McGuigan (Wicker Park, Lucky Number Slevin), is a gripping exploration of psychic warfare, family loyalty, and the cost of freedom. It may not have achieved blockbuster status, but its imaginative premise, tense action sequences, and stellar performances make it a hidden gem worth revisiting--or watching for the first time.

A World of Psychic Abilities and Dangerous Agendas

Push introduces us to a shadowy world where governments have been secretly experimenting with psychic powers since 1945. These powers are categorized into abilities like Movers (telekinesis), Pushers (mind control), Watchers (clairvoyance), and more. The U.S. Division, a sinister government organization, seeks to weaponize these abilities, but not everyone is willing to play their game.

At its heart, Push is a story of rebellion and survival. The plot kicks off when Nick Gant (played by Evans), an unassuming telekinetic, is thrust into a high-stakes mission. Nick, burdened by his father’s dying wish and hiding from the Division, is forced to team up with Cassie (a young clairvoyant played by Dakota Fanning) to protect Kira (Camilla Belle), a Pusher and Nick’s former flame. Together, they must uncover secrets, outsmart their powerful enemies, and fight for their freedom.

The story’s layers are built upon a morally complex web of betrayal, deception, and psychic showdowns. It’s a movie that keeps you guessing while delivering plenty of pulse-pounding moments along the way.

Chris Evans Before the Shield

Chris Evans’ performance as Nick Gant showcases a different side of the actor audiences might not expect. While Captain America is noble and self-assured, Nick is scrappy, reluctant, and visibly flawed. He’s not a clean-cut hero; he’s a down-on-his-luck underdog just trying to survive. Evans brings charm, vulnerability, and physicality to the role, reminding us why he’s one of the most versatile actors in Hollywood.

This role serves as a precursor to the charismatic leading man we’ve come to know. It’s fascinating to watch Evans balance Nick’s self-doubt with moments of resourcefulness and resolve, a far cry from the polished and confident Captain Rogers.

Why You Should Watch (or Rewatch) Push

Despite its intriguing premise and strong cast, Push didn’t receive the recognition it deserved upon release. Competing against bigger-budget films and lacking the marketing push (pun intended) of major franchises, it flew under the radar for many moviegoers. However, time has been kind to Push. Its cult following has grown as audiences rediscover its thought-provoking narrative and inventive world-building.

What makes Push so unique is its approach to the superhero genre. Unlike many of its contemporaries, it forgoes flashy costumes and larger-than-life city destruction. Instead, it opts for a gritty, grounded tone, blending noir-inspired storytelling with dystopian sci-fi vibes.

The setting in Hong Kong adds another layer of intrigue, offering a visually dynamic backdrop that feels gritty yet alive. The bustling streets and neon-lit alleys become an integral part of the film’s aesthetic, making Push visually distinct from more traditional superhero movies filmed on sound stages.

If you’re a fan of complex, character-driven stories with a touch of sci-fi, Push deserves a spot on your watchlist. Don’t let this one slip through the cracks again; it’s time to give it the recognition it deserves. Give this underrated gem some love when it comes to Lionsgate Play on May 23 via PLDT Home and Smart.

Lionsgate Play Now Streaming on Cignal Super App, Ushering in a New Era of Entertainment in the Philippines

 The highly anticipated Cignal Super has finally arrived in the Philippines, bringing with it an exciting evolution in video on demand streaming. For the first time, Filipinos can enjoy an all-in-one platform that brings together a variety of sought after streaming options under one roof. But perhaps the most exciting addition? Lionsgate Play is now part of the Cignal Super line up! Starting today, the platform brings Lionsgate Play’s renowned catalog of action-packed blockbusters, iconic franchises, award winning films, acclaimed series, and exclusive access to prestigious award shows, all curated for viewers who crave premium, world class entertainment. 

Through this groundbreaking partnership, Lionsgate Play and Cignal are set to redefine what entertainment means for Filipino audiences. From Hollywood hits to must watch originals, it’s everything you love, all in one place. 

A world-class catalog at your fingertips  

Known for its premium content globally, Lionsgate Play now brings its expansive library straight to screens across the Philippines via Cignal Super.  Subscribers can dive into its wide array of Hollywood favourites, including blockbuster franchises John Wick, The Hunger Games, and Twilight; critically acclaimed series including Killing Eve, Mr. Robot, and Mad Men; and pulse pounding action hits like Gangs of London and Paris Has Fallen. 

Additionally, the partnership also unlocks exclusive, live access to star-studded award nights like the Emmy’s, Golden Globes and BAFTA Awards, streaming directly to your screens. From iconic stories to red carpet moments, world class entertainment has never been this accessible. 

Lionsgate Play Philippines’ country manager Cecilia Marino shared “We’re pleased to join forces with Cignal Super to make Lionsgate Play’s unique content more accessible than ever in the Philippines. As Cignal evolves into a true multimedia powerhouse, this collaboration marks a key step in Lionsgate Play’s mission to expand our footprint and bring bold, edgy, and compelling global content to Filipino audiences—through a single, seamless platform.”

Entertainment meets convenience

Cignal Super transforms how Filipinos experience entertainment, bringing content from Lionsgate Play and other streaming services together in one seamless platform. With a single login, you’re instantly connected to riveting TV shows and blockbuster movies, without the hassle of managing multiple accounts. Say goodbye to endlessly switching between apps and hello to uninterrupted streaming, all in one place.

Whether you’re in the mood for edge-of-your-seat thrillers, heartfelt dramas, action-packed adventures, or even a live sports game, the app offers a diverse range of stories to suit every taste and mood. Its flexibility lets you stream whatever you want, whenever and wherever you are, ensuring entertainment is always at your fingertips.

“By partnering with Lionsgate Play and other streaming services, we’ve brought together an exceptional lineup of world-class content into one seamless platform, making quality entertainment more accessible than ever before,” says Gerard Milan, Chief Revenue Office of Cignal. “This launch marks a significant milestone in our commitment to innovation and delivering unmatched value for our subscribers.”

Experience it first  

Cignal and Lionsgate Play are inviting everyone to explore this exciting new era in entertainment. Whether you’re revisiting iconic franchises or discovering fresh stories, the Cignal Super App ensures every viewing moment is time well spent.  

You can now sign up for Cignal Super via the official website, https://cignalsuper.com.  

The service comes with two flexible plans. The Premium+ Plan, priced at ₱799 per month, gives full access to all streaming services on the platform, while the Premium Plan, at ₱499 per month, provides a curated lineup, perfect for those seeking variety at a great value. 

As a special launch offer, new users can enjoy Premium+ for just ₱399 per month and Premium for ₱249 per month until May 31, 2025.

Don’t wait—download Cignal Super today on Google Play or the App Store and see how Lionsgate Play can transform your entertainment experience. 

Laugh Out Loud: 5 Wild Comedies to Watch on Lionsgate Play This April Fools’ Day

 This April Fools', skip the pranks and press play on Lionsgate Play’s laugh-out-loud lineup.

April Fools' Day is here, and what better way to celebrate a day of pranks, jokes, and pure silliness than by indulging in some side-splitting entertainment? From outrageous comedies to cleverly absurd stories, we've gathered the ultimate must-watch list to match the playful chaos of the day. After all, what’s better than a good laugh to cap off the most mischievous day of the year?

1. Twisted Metal

What do you get when you mix killer cars, a wisecracking protagonist, and explosive stunts? Twisted Metal! Buckle up as John Doe (Anthony Mackie) and Quiet (Stephanie Beatriz) navigate a post-apocalyptic wasteland to deliver a mysterious package. But don’t expect a quiet road trip—chaos, absurdity, and a psychotic clown named Sweet Tooth take center stage in this hilariously unpredictable joyride.

2. Dirty 30

On the eve of Kate's (Mamrie Hart) 30th birthday, her two best friends, Evie (Gracie Helbig) and Charlie (Hannah Hart), throw her a party that spirals hilariously out of control. What starts as a simple celebration turns into a chaotic reunion of old friends, unexpected guests, and wild antics. But beneath the absurd antics lies a heartwarming story of friendship as the trio faces their personal struggles with work, love, and adulthood. Packed with quick wit, zany mishaps, and laugh-out-loud moments, Dirty 30 reminds us that growing older doesn’t mean we have to grow up.

3. Bridget Jones’s Diary

The queen of relatable chaos, Bridget Jones (Renée Zellweger), makes our watchlist for her utterly hilarious misadventures in life and love. A 32-year-old single woman in London, Bridget decides to take control of her chaotic life by keeping a diary. Struggling with her weight, love life, and career, she finds herself torn between two men: her charming but unreliable boss, Daniel Cleaver (Hugh Grant), and the seemingly aloof yet kind-hearted Mark Darcy (Colin Firth). It's a classic that will make you laugh (and cringe) even on your hundredth rewatch.

4. Minx

Set in 1970s Los Angeles, Minx follows Joyce (Ophelia Lovibond), an idealistic young feminist, who teams up with Doug (Jake Johnson), a scrappy adult entertainment publisher, to create the first erotic magazine for women.  Together, they embark on the wild and hilarious journey of creating the first erotic magazine for women. Packed with outrageous situations, quirky characters, and sharp wit, Minx delivers a cheeky exploration of empowerment, gender politics, and the absurdities of the publishing world—all with a side of retro flair and plenty of laughs.

5. Greedy People

In the quiet Southern seaside town of Providence, chaos ensues when a rookie cop and his morally questionable partner stumble upon a crime scene—and a giant basket of cash. What begins as a routine burglary call spirals into a wild chain of mistaken identities, accidental homicides, and a parade of absurd deaths. Packed with dark humor, outrageous antics, and a stellar cast that includes Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Himesh Patel, and Lily James, Greedy People is a madcap comedy that satirizes human nature in the funniest—and most chaotic—way possible.

Don’t miss the madness. Stream all these titles on Lionsgate Play and make this month the most entertaining one yet!

Shotgun Wedding: JLo and Josh Duhamel's Explosive Rom-Com Hits Lionsgate Play

 Forget cold feet – in Shotgun Wedding, Darcy (Jennifer Lopez) and Tom (Josh Duhamel) face a new level of pre-marital jitters. Their idyllic destination wedding in the Philippines takes a hilariously chaotic turn when a band of ruthless pirates crashes the party, turning "til death do us part" into a very real threat. Suddenly, navigating their opinionated families becomes the least of their worries. Now, this bickering couple must put aside their differences and fight tooth and nail to save their loved ones, all while trying not to kill each other in the process.

Directed by Jason Moore (Pitch Perfect), Shotgun Weddingpromises a wild roller coaster of romance, action, and laugh-out-loud moments. With a star-studded cast including Jennifer Lopez, Josh Duhamel, Jennifer Coolidge, Lenny Kravitz, D'Arcy Carden, and more, this is one destination wedding you won't want to RSVP "no" to.

 

Interestingly, despite the story being set in the Philippines, Shotgun Wedding was filmed in the Dominican Republic. In an interview with cinemadailyus.com, director Jason Moore explained: “The story takes place in the Philippines, so we were looking for a place where we could safely shoot the movie. We shot this during the first winter of COVID, so we were looking for a place that could double for the Philippines closer to America, as we couldn’t travel all the way there. We did end up changing a lot of the architecture when we arrived in the Dominican Republic. We choose colors and fabrics that reflect Filipino culture.”

 

Meanwhile, in an interview with freshfiction.tv, Jennifer Lopez shared how she enjoyed the connection between her evolving character and her fluffy wedding dress:“I really felt like the dress itself was like a character in the movie, but also really represented what she was going through.. As she went on, and was more honest with Tom about who she was and what she wanted, [it was] peeling back the layers and becoming more herself and stepping into her own power – more of her authenticity.

 

“[The dress] was the biggest, most cumbersome, beautiful, but not her at all. Pieces started coming off, and by the end, she’s this badass and took off the hair extensions and she has a gun and is like, ‘Alright, now! Everybody listens to me. This is how it’s going to be.’ We had it basically in stages throughout the whole entire thing. It was very calculated, for sure.”

 

Mark your calendars for the wild and hilarious Shotgun Wedding, hitting Lionsgate Play on March 28, 2025 on PLDT Home and Smart.

Lionsgate Play Unveils a Scorching Summer Lineup

Summer’s here, and boredom doesn’t stand a chance! Whether you’re soaking up the sun or chilling indoors, the perfect watchlist is essential. From breezy summer romances to chilling horrors and good, old fashioned, wacky adventures - Lionsgate Play brings you a scorching line up of titles that will transport you to new worlds. No matter your mood, these hot picks promise to keep you entertained all summer long. Let the summer binge begin!

Letters to Juliet (2016)

In Verona, Italy, the city of Romeo and Juliet's enduring romance, aspiring writer Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) stumbles upon a hidden wall where the heartbroken leave notes asking for Juliet’s guidance. After unearthing a 50-year-old letter, Sophie joins its author, Claire (Vanessa Redgrave), in a search for her lost love. Accompanied by her grumpy grandson Charlie (Christopher Egan), the trio discovers that sometimes the greatest love story ever told is your own.

own.

Midsommar (2019)

Ari Aster’s chilling folk horror film takes place in a remote Swedish village during what seems to be an idyllic midsummer festival. In the hopes of reigniting the passion in their crumbling relationship, young couple Dani (Florence Pugh) and Christian (Jack Reynor) visit the village with Christian’s friends. What’s supposed to be a peaceful retreat rapidly distorts into a harrowing experience, as the villagers' seemingly innocent festivities reveal a sinister and deeply disturbing reality that will leave even the most hardened viewer shaken.

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent (2022)

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent delivers a hilariously unhinged version of Nicholas Cage as "Nick Cage," a creatively drained actor accepting a million-dollar gig at a superfan's birthday. This seemingly simple appearance spirals into a wild ride of CIA espionage, high-octane action, and self-referential humor as Cage embodies his iconic roles and explores a "Cagedom" shrine. Director Tom Gormican's action-comedy is a loving homage to Cage's legendary career and a blast of nostalgia for anyone who's ever loved a Cage flick.

Florida Girls (2019)

Laura Chinn’s series, Florida Girls, dives into the messy reality of adulthood for four lifelong friends – Shelby, Kaitlin, Jayla, and Erica  – who live in a small Florida town. When one moves away to follow her dreams, the rest are forced to confront their lack of direction and figure out adulthood on their own terms. Inspired by Chinn's own experiences growing up on Florida's West Coast, the series delivers a raw and relatable portrayal of friendship and self-discovery. It also features an all-female cast, including Patty Guggenheim, Laci Mosley, Melanie Field, and Chinn herself. 

Barb and Star Goes to Vista del Mar (2021)

Those looking for an absurd escape into sunshine and silliness will never go wrong with Barb and Star Goes to Vista del Mar. Lifelong pals Barb and Star go on a quest to trade their Midwestern routine for a chaotic adventure in the sun-soaked Vista Del Mar. Armed with their hair curlers and favorite culottes, they test if the grass really is greener on the other side. Their vacation takes a few wild turns involving romantic entanglements, unexpected alliances, and a truly bonkers villain with a diabolical plan. Costarring (and co-written by) Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo, this hilarious film is a summer vacation must-watch with the girls.

Must-Watch Titles on Lionsgate Play for International Women’s Month

 Imagine stepping into the shoes of women who rewrote history and showed courage in the face of powerful adversaries. This Women’s Month, give your fictional heroes a rest and dive into stories highlighting the impact of real women who defied the odds and left enduring legacies. From courtroom battles to royal palaces, newsrooms to war rooms, these five biopics on Lionsgate Play offer a powerful glimpse into the strength that defines womanhood. 

 

Woman in Gold (2015)

Helen Mirren delivers a compelling performance as Maria Altmann in Woman in Gold, a Jewish refugee who, sixty years after escaping Nazi Vienna, sets out to recover her family's stolen inheritance. Her primary objective is Gustav Klimt's famous "Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I," a painting of her cherished aunt. With the assistance of the ambitious, young attorney Randy Schoenberg (Ryan Reynolds), Maria initiates a challenging legal battle against the Austrian government, which claims the artworks as national heritage.

 

Bombshell (2019)

Bombshell shines a light on the bravery of women who dare to challenge a powerful, predatory system. It follows the stories of Gretchen Carlson (Nicole Kidman), Megyn Kelly (Charlize Theron), and Kayla Pospisil (Margot Robbie), three women who bravely confronted sexual harassment and a toxic work environment at Fox News. When Carlson made the bold decision to file a lawsuit against Fox News founder Roger Ailes (John Lithgow) for harassment, it set off a chain reaction that empowered women to come forward with their own stories. Bombshell shows the importance of solidarity and the power of women supporting each other in the face of adversity.

 

On the Basis of Sex (2018)

On the Basis of Sex chronicles the inspiring journey of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, one of the most influential figures in American legal history. The biographical drama starring Felicity Jones brilliantly portrays Ginsburg’s struggle against gender discrimination within the legal system, highlighted by a landmark case that shaped her path to becoming the U.S. Supreme Court Justice. On the Basis of Sex is a must-watch for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the fight for gender equality, the power of legal advocacy, and the remarkable life of a woman who defied societal expectations.

 

Spencer (2021)

Pablo Larrain gives the audience a glimpse of the tumultuous mind of Diana, Princess of Wales (Kristen Stewart) in Spencer. Set over three days during the 1991 Christmas holidays at the Sandringham estate, Diana struggles with mental health problems as she questions everything about her once-beautiful marriage to Prince Charles in the wake of his extramarital affair. Larrain’s biopic might blend truth with fiction but it doesn’t gloss over the pain of a woman trapped within rigid royal traditions, fighting to reclaim her identity.

 

Golda (2023)

Set against the backdrop of the Yom Kippur War in 1973, Golda chronicles the life of Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir (Helen Mirren) and the high-stakes political decisions she made that changed the course of history. Directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Guy Nattiv, the film dives deep into the mental and physical toll Israel’s first and only female prime minister had to face as a leader who would do anything to save her beloved country from the worst war it’s ever been in. 

 

Keep the movie marathon going with Lionsgate Play’s diverse catalog of powerful and inspirational stories for everyone via PLDT Home and Smart.