"Maggie" covers all firsts most human zombie film ever made

 To all the zombie lovers out there like me, its time to feast our eyes again for these infested movie by Arnold Schwarzenegger post-apocalyptic starrer, “Maggie” along with Academy Award nominee Abigail Breslin has firsts stamped all over it – being the first drama thriller movie for Arnold Schwarzenegger tapping more on his real emotions in acting, the movie is helmed by first-time director Henry Hobson, the movie is written by first-time screenwriter John Scott 3 where “Maggie” had been included in 2011 Blacklist for best unproduced screenplays and the first time a zombie movie made relatable and realistic.

                “Maggie” at its core is a film about a father protecting his daughter and in a departure for the zombie genre, the true horror and suspense in the drama lays not so much in the blood, brains and gore of the walking dead, but rather in the dark reality of caring for a child or loved one whose terminal illness or behavior make them a danger to themselves and their family – and eventually confronting the even darker choices that behavior presents to anguished, loving parents.

                In the movie, the unimaginable choice Wade (Schwarzenegger) faces is profoundly soul-wrecking: Maggie (Breslin) is not just his first child and oldest daughter, she is the only child he had with his late, first wife.  As Maggie deteriorates and Wade steadfastly remains at her side, he soon realizes the only way he can truly protect his precious child is to end her misery – but how can he kill his own daughter?

                “After my daughter Maggie, played by Abigail, is bitten, she makes the conscious decision to run away to protect the rest of us. I, as a father, make more of an instinctual decision to find her and save her. Any father knows that the instinct to protect your children is real, so it will resonate with them. It leaves you asking yourself, ‘What would I do?’ and it isn’t an easy answer - the tears you see are real,” shares Schwarzenegger.

                “This is the most human zombie film you have ever seen”, said Schwarzenegger, “and it’s the most human role you’ve ever seen me take on, and I’m proud of it.  I think we produced an emotional, suspenseful film that will surprise and touch audiences.”  As it turns out, the larger-than-life sports icon, movie star and former governor of California was ready for the next chapter in his remarkable life and was interested in the role of Wade Vogel.

                Producer Matthew Baer sees the role as a turning point in Schwarzenegger’s acting career. “Arnold’s onscreen transformation and appearance will surprise a lot of people,” said Baer.  “Just the notion that for all his size and physical strength this man still can’t protect his daughter, his little girl, from harm is interesting to watch.  He’s working with a first time screenwriter and a first time director and taking a chance with young talent, which I think speaks to how much he believes in this family story and what it says about humanity.”

                According to Breslin, Schwarzenegger’s performance of the protective, physically intimidating, but emotionally ravaged father will surprise a lot of people.  “People are shocked when they hear he’s playing this character in this film, but once they see it, they’ll see he’s perfect in it and plays it so well I can’t imagine anyone else in the role,” she said.  “We play well off each other.  He brings emotions out of me, which is what you want and hope for in a co-star, which is helpful.  A lot of our scenes are really emotional and intense, so it’s good to have someone who can tap into that, which he does. I’m very proud of what we did together and how it turned out.”

                “Maggie” opens May 13 in cinemas nationwide from Pioneer Films.

EVERYONE’S FAVORITE TRIO OF CHIPMUNKS ARE BACK

Bagdasarian Productions’ brand new series ALVINNN!!! and The Chipmunks premieres Friday, May 8 7.30pm (PH) on Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon and Bagdasarian Productions are bringing Alvin, Simon, Theodore, and The Chipettes back to television in the all-new, CG-animated series ALVINNN!!!! and The Chipmunks premiering Friday, May 8 at 7.30pm (PH) on Nickelodeon. The new series reunites Janice Karman and Ross Bagdasarian, the duo behind the original 1980s animated series and three blockbuster feature films, and will mark the return of the franchise to television after 20 years.

ALVINNN!!! and The Chipmunks follows the friendship of Alvin, Simon, Theodore and The Chipettes as they face growing up and learning new life lessons. Each episode will feature an original song produced by Bagdasarian. In the half-hour series premiere, Alvin is not thrilled about going back to school; that is, until he sees the new Principal and develops a crush in “Principal Interest.” Then in “Talking Teddy," Theodore’s new talking-teddy bear is driving Alvin and Simon nuts. The two decide to rewire the bear to follow their instructions.

Celebrity Summer Shows in Casino Filipino

The Pagcor stage is now ready for the much-awaited special celebrity shows of the country’s topnotch performers.

Chokoleit will unleash his comic power on May 8 at Casino Filipino Olongapo. As one of the country’s brilliant comedians, Chokoleit will keep you laughing on your seats with his side-splitting punch lines and hilarious performances. He will return onstage on May 20 at Casino Filipino Pavilion for another dose of fun and entertainment.

Ace rapper Gloc 9 will rap his way to Casino Filipino Tagaytay on May 15. Be amazed as you listen to his poetic lyrics performed in his signature rapid-flowing vocal style. If once is not enough, then go and watch him again on May 23 at Casino Filipino Angeles.

Mark your calendar for Janno Gibbs’ special shows on May 22 (Casino Filipino Cebu) and May 28 (Casino Filipino Malate).Janno will surely captivate the romantic at heart with his gentle and soothing voice.

Acoustic singer Nyoy Volante takes centerstage on May 27 at the Carmona Satellite.  The audience will fall in love all over again as he serenades them with romantic songs.

For inquiries, call the Entertainment Department at (02) 708-2046, 526-0337 loc 2401 or 2403.

Red Ribbon celebrates Mother’s Day with sweet, unforgettable treats

Red Ribbon launches its limited edition Black Forest cake and Mamon

Red Ribbon, the country’s leading bakeshop, pays tribute to the special women in our lives – our mothers.  This Mother’s Day, Red Ribbon celebrates this special day with the all-time classic limited edition Mother’s Day Black Forest cake and the Mother’s Day Mamon. The Mother’s Day Black Forest Cake and Mother’s Day Mamon will both be available in Red Ribbon stores nationwide from May 8 to 10.

The Mother’s Day Black Forest will feature deliciously rich chocolate roses on top of the cake.  This edible floral bouquet complements the confection’s soft, moist chocolate cake sprinkled with a generous amount of glorious chocolate shavings atop fluffy, white cream icing and punctuated by juicy, sweet cherries.  This delightful cake makes a perfect gift for any mom to enjoy.

On the other hand, the Mother’s Day Mamon will have that soft, light, fluffy, white chiffon mamon and feature colorful, Mother’s Day-themed toppings.  These special mamons are packaged in special gift boxes that are great for giving away.  These will come in packs of 3s and are affordably priced at P120.00 only!  Even kids can make a gift of this to their moms.

These classic, elegantly rich and sumptuous confections are both feasts for the taste and are guaranteed to say “I love you, Mom” in more ways than one.

“We are proud of our Mother’s Day Black Forest cake and Mother’s Day Mamon because we made them with mothers in mind,” said Zinnia Rivera, Red Ribbon General Manager.  “We wanted to create something that helps families celebrate Mother’s Day in a special way and what better way to do it than with these classic treats.”

Red Ribbon’s Mother’s Day Black Forest cake and Mother’s Day Mamon will not only brighten the table but more importantly, make the celebration of moms’ special day worth remembering so much more.

Red Ribbon has long been a part of every important celebratory red-letter occasion through its many delightful cakes, breads and pastries.  With each occasion families come together to celebrate, Red Ribbon will always be a part of the occasion.

To know more about Red Ribbon’s many delights, visit www.redribbonbakeshop.com.

Show your mother you care, the Goldilocks way

Show Your Mom She’s Your Number One

Let us celebrate the time of the year when our mother takes center stage. Let us show her how much we care by treating her to a whole day of spa, or give her that signature bag that she longs for, or simply spend the rest of the day bonding with her.

Have you hugged your mom today, or shown her any form of affection? If not, you might want to consider it. We often take for granted all the work our mothers have put into making sure we survive to a happy, healthy, and trouble-free adulthood. This month is the perfect chance to let them know how deeply grateful we are for their unconditional love, gentle guidance, and positive influence.
This loving supervision is often expressed through their words of wisdom. This May, Goldilocks aims to give mothers the praise they deserve by highlighting this intrinsic part of motherhood.

Everyone is invited to head to Twitter share their mothers’ Best Love Advice, under the hashtag #10coMOMments, from April 25 to May 4. Those who send the winning coMOMments will be awarded with a Limited Edition Cake of their choice. 

Indeed, it’s only fitting to preface your declaration of maternal devotion with a scrumptious cake from Goldilocks, the country’s number one bakeshop. This month, Goldilocks is here to help you show your love with a truly sweet array of their popular Limited Edition Cakes.

Show your mother you think she’s a classic lady, sweet and sophisticated, with a gorgeous, chocolate Black Forest Cake. If your mother has always been the reliable bedrock of your life, earthy and wholesome, try giving her a slice of Carrot Walnut Cake to show your affection. Or if she’s always been the spark of any gathering, celebrate her zest for life with the richly delicious crunch of Chocolate Sansrival. Whatever flavor you choose, you’ll be letting her know that you love her.
Give your mother the number one treatment she deserves this Mother’s Day! Call 888-1-999 or visit any Goldilocks Bakeshop near you.

TURN THE TABLES AROUND AT GERRY'S ON MOTHER'S DAY

On May 9 it's Mother’s Day!

And what better way to celebrate the occasion than to be with Mom and the rest of the family at Gerry’s.

Why so?

We know a mother is the “Queen of Kitchen”. She was born to rule it. Day and night a mother spends long hours in her ‘mini-kingdom’ cooking up nothing but the best meals for her family.



Moms would stop at nothing to make sure her beloved - hubby and children - enjoy their time together at the dining table. No other gathering can be more heartfelt than being together, feasting over mom’s signature dishes – which are incomparable.

Now that’s the huge challenge there.  How do you make someone, who in her life has done nothing but whip up the best dishes for her family, happy?

Here’s an idea. On Mother’s Day why don’t we turn the tables around and do a role reversal? Let’s cook up something for our Moms and treat her like royalty.

Now that may sound a tall order, but Gerry’s promises to help you play the role.  There is no way that you can beat Mom’s “lutong bahay” but you can always do the best you could – by choosing to be at the leading Filipino restaurant.

“Gerry’s has a vast selection of dishes that Mothers would definitely love. Aside from classics Crispy Pata, Kare-Kare and Sinigang na Hipon, there's Scallops, Baby Squid, Crispy Pla-Pla and Bangus a la Pobre. Gerry’s is a family place so we know what everyone – dads, moms and their children – would enjoy. Our sumptuous meals are perfect for Mother’s Day even for simple gatherings like weekend lunches,” said Francis Villaluz, Gerry’s Group Marketing Manager.

If you go inside the kitchen of Gerry’s, you would be glad to know that a lot of the much-loved restaurant’s chefs are women, according to Villaluz. “Our menus are prepared with so much heart. That’s why our dishes still top a lot of ‘best-of’ lists.”

Whatever the occasion may be especially those, which are as most celebrated and anticipated as Mother’s Day, Gerry’s continue to be a destination of choice.

No need to try hard topping Mom’s dishes – because they will remain unbeaten.

But you can bring her to Gerry’s because she knows that’s what her family loves. And loving her family is on top of anyone’s Moms’ list!

Don’t forget the flowers.

Enjoy Gerry's in 71 branches nationwide or call 332-1111 or visit www.gerrysgrill.com for more information.

Philam Life and PFF Kick Off New Beginnings For Yolanda Survivors

From left to right: Philam Life Chief Marketing Officer Jaime Jose Javier, Jr., Philam Foundation, Inc. President Max G. Ventura, Philam Life Chief Executive Officer Estelito G. Madrid ,Jr. with Philippine Football Federation President Mariano Araneta and General Secretary Ed Gastanes.




Forming a partnership that looks toward nation building, education, and sports, the Philam Life and Philippine Football Federation (PFF) are working hand-in-hand to reconstruct schools affected by one of the country’s most disastrous storms on record, Typhoon Yolanda. 

To help rebuild the educational institutions of Samar, Leyte, and Iloilo, the Philippine Football Federation will dedicate USD 250,000 to build at least 11 new classrooms under the Philam Paaralan program of Philam Foundation Inc., the corporate social responsibility arm of Philam Life.

Among the schools benefiting from this charitable team-up are Dolores National High School and San Julian Elementary School of Eastern Samar; Alang-Alang Central Elementary School and the Dulag SPED Center of Leyte; and Carlo Lopez National High School of Iloilo. 

Aside from their projects which focus on rehabilitation and reconstruction, the PFF and Philam Life also recognize the value of community and teamwork. They are currently organizing the first ever PFF-Philam Life Football Festival to celebrate the irrepressible spirits of those who kept going despite incredible adversity.

The PFF-Philam Life Football Festival aims to develop local provincial football associations in select provinces. These associations will then host football tournaments for teams composed of children aged six to 12 years.

Its goal is to help promote and upgrade grassroots and youth football competitions in the country, and to encourage greater awareness and appreciation for the sport.

This generosity matchup between Philam Life and the PFF will help Filipinos, especially those facing adversity, score a healthier lifestyle and a happier disposition.
For more details, please visit www.philamlife.com.

Samsung introduces the ultimate in viewing pleasure, the SE790C Curved Monitor

Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation, presents the first and highly advanced curved monitor, the SE790C, last May 3 at SM Mega Fashion Hall Director's Club Cinema delivering an enhanced immersive and comfortable viewing experience for multi-media entertainment and multi-tasking.

 Alongside an optimized curved design, ultra-wide quad high definition (ULTRA-WQHD) resolution and a superior contrast ratio, the new 34-inch curved monitor SE790C offers enhanced productivity and entertainment functionality within a sophisticated and ergonomic design.

Samsung’s SE790C, compared to conventional flat-screen TVs, offers an industry-leading and award-winning curvature for a truly immersive, comfortable and differentiating viewing experience. It has superior picture quality, productivity and entertainment-enhancing technology features, and design sophistication, taking usual TV watching into higher level.

“Samsung has once again created another milestone for Filipino families in making their living innovative,” said Ireen Catane, Samsung Electronic Philippines Co. Enterprise Business Director. “With SE790C Curved Monitor’s Immersive and Comfortable Viewing Experience, consumers can now also enjoy watching TV while bonding with their families. And that’s what Samsung is also up for.”

Immersive and Comfortable Viewing Experience 
The innovative 3000R (curvature radius of 3,000mm) curvature design of the SE790C provides a noticeably different viewing experience from traditional flat screen monitors and competitive curved monitors. Unlike flat screen monitors where the viewing distance differs from the center of the screen to the edges, the screen edges of the SE790C more closely match the natural curve of a viewer’s eyes.  As a result, the SE790C creates a distortion-free viewing experience with less eye strain and enhanced comfort for viewer.

In fact, the curved monitor’s superior eye comfort has been validated by TÜV Rheinland, a leading international certification organization. The rigorous certification process involved an evaluation of the monitor’s color presentation, color uniformity, viewing angle, and curved space and flicker-free operation.

An edge-to-edge curve also enables panoramic-like viewing, creating a wider and fuller field of view, and a more immersive visual experience. The monitor’s optimal curved design creates a high 3D-like effect ratio that makes the screen seem larger than a flat screen of the same size. This 3D-like effect increases when depth becomes larger or the viewing distance becomes closer.

Vibrant Picture Quality 
To ensure multi-media content can be enjoyed with the finest picture quality, clarity and intensity it deserves, the Samsung SE790C features a 21:9 aspect ratio and ULTRA-WQHD resolution of 3,440 by 1,440 pixels to deliver stunning picture quality.
Complemented by a wide viewing angle, the monitor’s best-in-class static contrast ratio of 3,000:1 and 300 cd/m2 typical brightness result in dynamic lighting and shading for lifelike pictures with deeper blacks, vivid colors and sharper detail. The extra-wide viewing angle of 178 degrees horizontally and vertically optimizes the viewing experience from any position and minimizes picture distortion.

Optimized for Productivity and Entertainment
An array of features take multi-tasking, gaming and movie watching to the next level. The SE790C comes equipped with Picture-by-Picture (PbP) and Picture-in-Picture (PiP) 2.0 functions for enhanced work efficiency. PbP allows users to easily connect two devices, such as a desktop, laptop, gaming device (Xbox, PlayStation, etc.) or Set-Top Box (STB), and view both simultaneously on the monitor without compromising screen real-estate. PiP 2.0 enables multi-tasking without the need to downscale content. The monitor also is equipped with four USB 3.0 super-charging ports to eliminate the need for a docking station and maintain 24/7 connectivity for all your devices.

The SE790C also offers a variety of entertainment-enhancing capabilities, including a unique game mode, high-quality stereo sound and fast response time. Using the game mode, the curved monitor intelligently detects changes in scenes by correcting blurry images, enhancing colors and altering contrast for improved visibility of in-game action. The monitor’s embedded 7-watt dual stereo speakers also deliver a high-quality stereo sound and a richer experience, while a response time of four milliseconds ensures gamers see even the fastest on-screen action clearly and smoothly without motion blur or ghosting.

Premium and Ergonomic Design
Constructed from sophisticated metallic materials, the SE790C is designed with a clean and understated look that ensures nothing distracts viewers from the curved screen. The elegantly curved T-shaped, height-adjustable stand (HAS) and clean back with hidden VESA bracket support work together to enhance the monitor’s sophisticated and ergonomic design to maximize productivity and comfort.

Take Your Shot to a Dining Experience in Nobu Hotel Manila!

People are raving about Nobu Hotel Manila as people can get to experience celebrity-inspired hospitality in Japanese setting right at the Philippines’ newest entertainment capital, the City of Dreams Manila.

In celebration of its upcoming official launch, Nobu Hotel, City of Dreams Manila is giving away a delectable set-dinner for two at the Nobu Manila restaurant to a lucky winner!

All you need to do is to take a photo of yourself in Nobu Hotel Manila and make it your official entry. Here is the full mechanics:

1) LIKE our Nobu Hotel, City of Dreams Manila Facebook Page
(link it to https://www.facebook.com/NobuHotelManila?fref=ts)

2) LIKE the contest post
(link it to https://www.facebook.com/NobuHotelManila/photos/pb.361302950738790.-2207520000.1431030718./384542081748210/?type=3&theater)

3) TAKE A SNAPSHOT of yourself at Nobu Hotel, City of Dreams Manila, then upload the photo in the comments section of this Facebook post using hashtag ‪#‎nobuhotelmanila‬

4) TAG the person you want to take to dinner and tell us in a creative way why you choose them!
With mother’s day just around the corner, why not treat your mom for dinner in one of the most elite restaurant here in Metro Manila. So what are you waiting for? Join the Nobu contest now and experience an exquisite dinner prepared by the top international Chefs in the country.

**Terms and Conditions apply. Nobu Hotel, City of Dreams Manila will select the final winning entry. The contest will run from 4 May at 13:00 Manila Time to 15 May at 18:00 Manila Time.

A Treat to Remember For Moms At Burgoo

On Mother’s Day, here’s a treat to remember for moms at Burgoo: Angus Rib Eye Steak, Spinach Grilled Salmon, Surf and Steak, and Trio  Fajitas.  Your mom will receive P250.00 worth of Burgoo certificate which she can use on her next visit if you order any of these sumptuous treats.

Also highly recommended at Burgoo  are Oklahoma-Style Grilled Baby Back Ribs, Hamburgoo, Supreme Pizza,  Lemon-Peppered Grilled Lapu-Lapu, Country-Style Fried Chicken, Seafood Linguini, Grilled Pork Chops, etc. 

Visit Burgoo at T. Morato in Quezon City; Powerplant Mall in Rockwell Makati; The Podium in Ortigas; Gateway Mall in Araneta Center Cubao; Robinsons Galleria in Ortigas; SM City The Block in North EDSA; Mall of Asia in Pasay; SM City Marikina; SM Southmall in Alabang, The District in Cavite;  3rd level Terraces Mall in Fairview; and  Starmall in Taguig.  For reservations and inquiries, please call 9277424, 8381815, 6875254, 7263578, 9136112, 5560091 or 6336256.

Alviera Brightscape Campfest offers starlit weekend adventure

Experience the height of summer through the best and possibly most fun-tastic event of the season. Arts, music, and adventure come together in an unforgettable event at the Alviera Brightscape Campfest on May 30-31, 2015 at SandBox at Alviera in Porac, Pampanga.

Alviera, home of the great outdoor play park SandBox, hosts its first summer camp out in a weekend jampacked with activities you can enjoy with friends and family.

This unique camping experience provides guests with their own tents in an outdoor campsite, campfire treats, stargazing sessions with telescopes, comfort amenities, and fun field day events and activities at the SandBox. Evenings in Alviera are breezy and cool, marked by a beautiful night sky. To cap the night, the Brightscape Music Jam features a concert under the stars from some of the hottest names in music.



Packages to the Alviera Brightscape Campfest come in Day Adventurer and Weekend Camper variants. Day Adventurer, at P1,990 per person, comes with roundtrip transportation from Manila to Alviera (with travel insurance), free use of all SandBox thrills and attractions, access to all Brightscape Field Day Events, passes to the Brightscape Music Jam, as well as an event kit filled with surprise Brightscape Campfest freebies.


Weekend Camper tickets at P2,990 per person entitle participants to all Day Adventurer inclusions, plus overnight campsite stay, access to campsite-exclusive activities, free use of Coleman tents, exclusive use of SandBox and a hearty buffet breakfast on Sunday morning, May 31.

The Brightscape Field Day events start with kite-flying, drumming, basic survival skills, flow arts movement and a lot of SandBox action. Watch the skies for amazing kites then learn to make them and fly your own. Kite-flying and kite design are featured in Art in the Sky sessions. Wilder necessities takes you on a walk on the wild side to learn basic nature skills from local experts. Learn to drink water from bamboo stalks, kindle a small camp fire or pick out edibles from available plants around you. It’s fun field survival 101.

Ever marched to the beat of your own drum? Here’s a chance to find your rhythm and feel the beat at Pulses & Artbeats. Led by the high-energy Adinkra Lumads Djembe Community, join this community drum circle to experience pulsing drumbeats like no other. If you’re into moving with the beat, learn the basics of flow arts movement from the experts at Flow Arts Philippines. Swing and sway using poi, hoops and other props.

There’s a whole day to enjoy all of SandBox’s attractions. Take in the Adventure Tower, the Avatar One rollercoaster zipline, Giant Swing, Aerial Walk and the 9-km Alviera-Columbia Bike Trail. Plus, there’s mini-golf, archery, children’s playground and ATV/UTV rides.

As the sun sets, the outdoor stage show opens with Ring of Fire, a sunset spin jam featuring the flow artists and Djembe musicians. Shadowtales follows suit, a silhouette puppet theater performance written and performed exclusively for the event. The evening culminates with the soundtrack to a sizzling summer with the Brightscape Music Jam starring Barbie Almalbis, Imago, Quest, The Ransom Collective, Chocolate Factory, Brisom, Absolute Play, and the Adinkra Lumads.

Simultaneously, Weekend Campers will be treated to exclusive Camper Field Day Events, such as tent-pitching 101 from Coleman’s camping pros, a bonfire session with s’mores treats provided, and stargazing and star-mapping sessions.

“Brightscape Campfest is an exclusive summer experience that only Alviera can provide. It’s a unique and great way to celebrate and crown the summer,” said John Estacio, Alviera General Manager. “Visitors will even have a choice between staying the whole day and taking in the breezy plains of Porac, or they can go weekend camping with us overnight.  We welcome everyone to enjoy the outdoors with us here.”

Brightscape Campfest packages are available at www.travelfactor.org/brightscape. Tickets only with prices of P1,000 for Day Adventurer and P1,500 for Weekend Camper can be purchased via www.ticketnet.com.ph.

Alviera Brightscape Campfest is an event presented by Ayala Land and Leonio Land in partnership with Travel Factor, Coleman, Alveo, Avida and Avida Settings Alviera, and Philippine Star. This is also brought to you by The North Face, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Business Mirror, Widus Hotel, and Marquee Mall.