More ABS-CBN and GMA collabs ahead in new-look iWant

Following a strategic shift after its broadcast franchise expired, ABS-CBN has fully committed to creating global content and has even partnered with its former rival, GMA Network.

It appears these collaborations between the two media powerhouses are set to continue expanding. The latest joint effort involves ABS-CBN's streaming service, iWant.

Marking a symbolic transition for the network, which recently powered down its iconic Millenium Transmitter, ABS-CBN digital head Jaime Lopez highlighted the company's strong position in the digital landscape, attributing it partly to iWant's international reach.

The streaming platform is rolling out an upgrade that significantly broadens its content library. While shows and films from ABS-CBN Studios remain central, the revamped iWant now includes select titles from GMA, Regal Entertainment, and Viva.

Lopez described the platform as a welcoming space for diverse content, stating it's a place where "we welcome all storytellers and all types of storytelling," aiming to continue being of service to Filipinos.

Beyond content, the updated iWant app offers enhanced technical features, including faster performance, sharper video previews, and seamless functionality across smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and desktops. It also supports Chromecast and AirPlay for increased device compatibility.

This streaming expansion comes on the heels of other successful collaborations between ABS-CBN and GMA, such as the popular 'Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab Edition', which featured talent from both networks and aired on various platforms. Past projects have also included co-produced TV shows like 'It’s Showtime' and 'Unbreak My Heart', as well as the record-breaking film 'Hello, Love, Again'.

Ivan Palawi, director of the recent iWant original 'Love At First Spike', praised the platform's approach to creative endeavors. He noted that iWant provides creators with "full support and the freedom to tell our stories," highlighting the significant trust placed in storytellers.

‘Sa Likod ng Tsapa’: Bio flick on Davao top cop ‘a boost for regional filmmakers’

A new documentary drama titled 'Sa Likod Ng Tsapa' (Behind the Badge), focusing on the life story of controversial police colonel Hansel Marantan, is set to hit cinemas nationwide starting August 13.

The film's producer, Editha Caduaya, who also wrote and directed the movie, highlighted its significance as a positive development for regional filmmakers and actors. Caduaya noted that the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board recently granted the trailer a "G" rating, allowing it to be shown to general audiences in movie houses, regardless of the final film's rating.

Produced by POP Moviehouse and Newsline Philippines and distributed by Solar Pictures, 'Sa Likod Ng Tsapa' traces the career of Marantan, an Ilocano native, through various assignments from Northern Luzon to Mindanao. The production proudly features a cast and crew primarily composed of talents based in Davao City.

Colonel Marantan was the chief of police in Davao City during the widely reported arrest of doomsday preacher and alleged trafficker Apollo Quiboloy.

He was also previously involved in a major incident in Calabarzon in 2013. At the time, as a police superintendent, Marantan was the officer in charge of a checkpoint in Quezon province where an alleged shootout resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals, including suspected jueteng operator Victor Siman.

The National Bureau of Investigation had stated that the operation, dubbed “Coplan Armado,” was based on Marantan's intelligence regarding alleged members of private armed groups. However, Marantan and eleven other police officers were recently acquitted by a Manila court concerning the killings.

Before his current role as the acting city director of the Davao City Police Office, Marantan also served as the head of the Philippine National Police's Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Metro Manila.

Caduaya emphasized the film's regional production as a source of pride, expressing hope that its success will encourage more stories from different regions of the country to be brought to the screen. She described Colonel Marantan's life as a narrative of "resilience and truth," which they are keen to share nationally.

According to a media release from the producer, the film aims to provide an unvarnished look into the "unseen battles and moral dilemmas faced by law enforcers behind the badge." Caduaya added that the movie uses Marantan’s personal journey to explore broader themes related to Philippine politics and the internal challenges within the police force, shedding light on the sacrifices made by officers in the line of duty.

‘Incognito’ director wants the world to see Philippine action

Director Lester Pimentel Ong, a former stuntman and wushu athlete, has a unique background that profoundly shapes his filmmaking. Despite initially entering the film industry "by necessity" and not foreseeing a directing career, his time working closely with directors ignited a fascination with storytelling and the craft, eventually leading him to create his own visual narratives.

Ong's latest project, the 2025 action drama "Incognito," marks a significant moment as the series wraps up. Produced by ABS-CBN Studios, Star Creatives, and Studio 360, the show offers a fresh perspective on Philippine action, centering on themes of redemption and second chances through the story of disgraced former military personnel.

Since its debut on Netflix, "Incognito" has garnered critical success and a growing viewership, building anticipation for its upcoming finale set in Marawi. The director expressed his aspirations for the genre, stating, "I hope the Philippine action drama can break barriers and reach foreign shores," envisioning a future where global audiences enjoy Filipino action narratives just as they do Korean and Thai dramas.

His directing portfolio, which includes action-packed series like "Bagani," "One Good Day," and "Ironheart," clearly reflects his roots in martial arts and stunt work. Ong draws creative inspiration from both Western cinema's narrative structures, citing greats like Martin Scorsese and Francis Ford Coppola, and Eastern cinema's technical artistry, particularly admiring the filmmaking techniques seen in 80s and 90s Hong Kong action films by masters such as Jackie Chan, Zhang Yimou, and John Woo.

He highlighted how Hong Kong filmmakers, despite operating with "very very limited budgets" in those decades, managed to capture Hollywood's attention, enabling directors like John Woo to cross over. These influences are evident in "Incognito," which is praised not only for its carefully designed action sequences but also for its compelling dramatic exploration of its characters' paths to redemption.

The cast of the Netflix series, featuring notable actors like Ian Veneracion, Richard Gutierrez, Daniel Padilla, Baron Geisler, Maris Racal, Kaila Estrada, and Anthony Jennings, portray a team of seven individuals with troubled pasts specializing in missions against the criminal underworld. Their on-screen journey seeking second chances resonates with Ong, who believes these story beats are vital in depicting characters striving to rebuild their lives after setbacks.

Interestingly, the show's theme of redemption mirrored some real-life circumstances among the cast before filming began. Ong shared during a media conference that prior to production, some actors faced their own challenges, and he felt thankful that "Incognito became part of the healing process" for them.

The director spoke with pride about the cast's dedication, noting their commitment to rigorous physical and mental preparation despite working under challenging conditions, specifically on what he termed a "drama budget" rather than a typical action series budget. He emphasized that they successfully created an action series despite limited resources and manpower.

Production involved extensive travel, shuttling between different countries and various Philippine provinces, culminating in the Marawi finale. Ong pointed out that filming in locations like Japan and Itogon, Benguet, presented particular difficulties due to factors like a smaller-than-usual team for a TV series and challenging weather conditions, including shooting for 12 hours a day in sub-zero temperatures and snow during their Japan winter shoot.

The post-production phase, especially editing, was described as "bloody," requiring significant fine-tuning to achieve a "filmic" quality. Ong acknowledged the limitations of their "very modest camera" and limited lighting equipment compared to industry best standards, necessitating substantial effort in post-production to realize his vision.

However, these constraints did not deter him from pursuing his creative goals. He explained the meticulous attention paid to every technical detail, from scoring and color grading to action sequencing and wardrobe, ensuring each element contributed meaningfully to the narrative and character development. Ong's background as an action choreographer provides him with an expert ability to assess the feasibility, time, budget, and risks associated with stunts, which proves invaluable in production.

Collaboration was also a key aspect of the process. Ong encouraged the actors to share their ideas, particularly for dramatic scenes, fostering a very collaborative environment for mounting sequences. While the action design was primarily led by his team, the approach to delivering dramatic moments involved sit-down discussions with the cast.

Despite the success of "Incognito," Ong admitted his biggest concern is the potential decline of the action genre in the Philippines. He feared that this series might be their last large-scale action production due to perceptions that such projects are "matagal gawin" (too long to make), "mahal" (expensive), difficult to compete internationally, and might not resonate with the local audience.

Through "Incognito," Ong hopes to demonstrate the potential of local action series and encourage producers and broadcasting companies to greenlight more projects in the genre, fostering its continued growth. He credited the show's success to the trust placed in his vision by the producers and showrunners, viewing it as a testament to what Philippine television is capable of achieving.

Looking ahead, Ong's ultimate dream for the industry is to see international financing come into the Philippines to enable larger-scale productions. He believes attracting such investment could significantly elevate the local film and TV landscape. Personally, he also intends to broaden his horizons by directing other genres, such as family drama, simply aiming to "keep contributing to the film industry as a whole," without a specific desire to cement a particular legacy beyond continuing to do what he loves.

Chris Brown pleads not guilty to lesser assault charge in UK court

Grammy Award-winning artist Chris Brown was in a UK court this past Friday, where he entered a plea of not guilty to a charge of assault causing actual bodily harm. The accusation stems from an alleged incident two years ago at a London nightclub, where he is accused of attacking a music producer with a bottle.

This appearance follows Brown's denial last month of a more severe charge related to the same event: attempting to inflict grievous bodily harm. Prosecutors have described the alleged 2023 incident involving music producer Abraham Diaw as an "unprovoked attack."

Appearing at London’s Southwark Crown Court, the 36-year-old singer confirmed his identity and formally entered his not guilty pleas. In addition to the assault charge, he also pleaded not guilty to possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.

Brown's co-defendant, Omololu Akinlolu, aged 38, also entered a not guilty plea to the charge of causing actual bodily harm. Akinlolu had similarly denied the earlier, more serious charge of attempting to inflict grievous bodily harm.

The legal proceedings are now set to move towards a trial, which is scheduled to commence on October 26, 2026.

During Friday's relatively brief hearing, approximately 20 supporters were present in the public gallery. As Brown exited the courtroom, two individuals reportedly called out "we love you, Chris."

Earlier this year, in May, the R&B star was granted bail. This decision came after he paid a significant 5 million-pound (equivalent to about $6.7 million) security fee, allowing him to proceed with his "Breezy Bowl XX" tour commitments.

Brown's return to Britain in May marked his first visit since the alleged incident two years prior. He was reportedly arrested at a hotel in Manchester upon his arrival back in the country.

FACT CHECK: Viral photo of Ariana Grande is AI-manipulated

A photo circulating online claiming to show singer and actress Ariana Grande looking extremely thin with hollow cheeks has gone viral, sparking concern among social media users about her appearance.

However, a closer look reveals this image is not what it seems. Fact-checking shows that the viral photo has been manipulated using artificial intelligence tools.

According to analysis from an AI image detection tool, the picture is 99% likely to be AI-generated, with a 93% probability of face manipulation. The image is a digitally altered version of an original photograph taken in January 2025 at the 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Awards.

The manipulation specifically targeted her face, making her cheeks appear significantly thinner compared to the authentic photo from the event. Crucially, the viral post did not include any label indicating that the image was AI-generated, potentially misleading viewers.

Concerns about the artist's weight have been discussed online since 2023. That same year, Grande posted a TikTok video directly addressing comments on her appearance. She explained that the body many considered her "healthy" was actually her unhealthiest state, when she was on antidepressants, drinking, and eating poorly.

In her video, she encouraged people to reconsider making comments about others' bodies, regardless of intent, emphasizing that there are "different ways to look healthy and beautiful" and urging a collective effort to reduce body commentary.

Ariana Grande, a significant figure in pop culture and music, has recently been seen starring as Glinda in the film "Wicked."

This incident highlights the growing issue of AI-manipulated images circulating online, particularly concerning public figures, and the importance of verifying visuals shared on social media platforms.

‘Pet Cinema’ debuts at select Ayala Malls with screenings on July 12

Great news for cinema fans who also happen to be pet parents! Ayala Malls has officially launched its "Pet Cinema," creating a fantastic new opportunity for you to enjoy movies right alongside your beloved furbabies.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 12, as this initiative kicks off with special pet-friendly screenings of the highly anticipated James Gunn film, *Superman*.

Before bringing your animal companion, there are a few simple guidelines to follow. Pets are welcome inside the cinemas, provided they are kept on a leash, wearing diapers, and are well-behaved throughout the screening.

To secure your spot for this unique movie experience, you'll need to complete a registration and waiver form. This form must be presented when purchasing your tickets. You can find these necessary forms on the official social media accounts of Ayala Malls Cinemas.

When purchasing tickets, the policy is designed to ensure comfort for everyone. One ticket grants entry for one pet owner accompanied by one small pet. For those with a medium to large furry friend, two tickets are required for you and your pet to enter. This helps maintain adequate space and a pleasant environment for all moviegoers.

Tickets are available for purchase at the ticketing booths of several participating mall locations. Screenings on July 12 are scheduled as follows: UP Town Center, Cinema 2 at 11 am; Ayala Malls the 30th, Cinema 2 at 11 am; Alabang Town Center, Cinema 1 at 11:30 am; Ayala Malls Solenad, Cinema 3 at 11:45 am; and Ayala Malls Vertis North, Cinema 3, at 12 noon.

Additionally, a separate "Superman: Bring Your Own Krypto" screening will be held on the same day at 1 pm at Cinema 2, BHS Cinemas, located in Central Square, Bonifacio Global City. Tickets for this specific screening are also good for one person and one small pet, with required waivers.

Attendees are kindly reminded to bring along essential items for their pets, such as treats, water, and supplies for easy clean-up, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.

*Superman* is the first film to debut under the new Pet Cinema concept, and there are plans to include more movies in the future that will welcome you and your pets.

Five Reasons Why Gen Zs Are Hooked on Puregold Channel’s Si Sol at si Luna

Emotions were super-charged in “Meet the Family,” the cliff-hanger episode 6 of Puregold Channel’s hit digital series Si Sol at si Luna, as Sol (Zaijian Jaranilla) and Luna (Jane Oineza) bade their time in getting together again. In this episode, Sol spent time with Ara and her family, as a kind favor to her, while Luna looked back on happier times with Andy—how he could make her smile even on the bleakest days.

Netizens braced themselves for heartbreak, doubtful about Sol making it to their long-awaited meetup. But the episode’s powerful twist? Sol shows up and finds Luna waiting as the episode closes.

Scenarios like this keep fans glued to their screens as each episode airs on Puregold’s YouTube Channel. Gen Z viewers, especially, find thrill and excitement in each turn, recognizing their own romantic episodes as they relate to Sol and Luna’s journey.

Here, check out five reasons why young followers of Si Sol at si Luna are hooked on the series:

Flawed but genuine characters. Sol is not perfect—he makes silly mistakes, like choosing Luna over an important responsibility and hurting someone in the process. But Sol owns up to his errors, and fans are quick to forget.

This authenticity touches young viewers who are grappling with messy friendships and relationships themselves.

Grief is treated with honesty and nuance. Luna’s grief in the series is not simply a backstory; it is raw and real, like how we experience it in real life. She tries to function, to laugh, and to feel alive again, but her grief comes and goes, often unexpected and overwhelming.

Luna’s story depicts how people process loss—in quiet moments, one day at a time.

It’s a love story, but not the usual kind. Aside from its intriguing and provocative theme—an age-gap relationship—Si Sol at si Luna is not for the wide-eyed romancevjunkie. It’s slow-burn, with crippling doubts, wrought by past wounds, new responsibilities, and personal battles that won’t magically go away.

Si Sol at si Luna is a love story with a reality check, resonating with how we truly experience love.

It understands how Gen Zs think and feel. From quiet anxiety to emotional burnout, the show captures the internal struggles that young people feel—the pressure to move on, connect, and feel something again.

Si Sol at si Luna is a cathartic passage for people who see their own journey in the show’s leads.

The show appeals to different generations. While Si Sol at si Luna has racked up a huge fan base among Gen Zs, Puregold’s Senior Marketing Manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad believes that the show cuts across demographics with the life lessons it offers. “We’d like to think that viewers of different ages see themselves depicted in the narratives of Si Sol at si Luna. Whether people are dealing with their first heartbreak, reliving a past love, or learning to let go, we are sharing this story so they will know they are not alone.”

In Episode 7 of Si Sol at si Luna ‘The Interview’, we finally see more of Sol and Luna together as Sol begins his heart-to-heart interview with Luna for his film project.



But will this newfound intimacy spark thoughts of romance?



Catch the next episode and find out on Puregold Channel’s YouTube on Saturday, July 12.



Subscribe to Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and X, and @puregoldph on TikTok for more updates and behind-the-scenes content.



Link to Episode 6: Si Sol at Si Luna | Episode 6 “Meet The Family"

Eraserheads docu is first Filipino-produced film to screen at San Diego Comic-Con

Prepare for a dose of OPM history hitting a global stage! The documentary "Eraserheads: Combo On The Run" is set to make waves at San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) 2025, marking a significant milestone as the first Filipino-produced music documentary ever to screen at the renowned pop culture convention.

Held annually in San Diego, California, from July 24 to 27, SDCC draws massive crowds for its panels, exhibits, and events covering comics, film, TV, gaming, and more. Following its screening, "Eraserheads: Combo On The Run" will also feature a dedicated panel discussion. Set to take place in Exhibit Hall 6BCF, a space typically reserved for major entertainment presentations, the panel will be led by the film's director and producer, Diane Ventura, alongside none other than Eraserheads frontman Ely Buendia.

The documentary itself serves as a powerful tribute to the legendary Filipino rock band, celebrated for timeless anthems like "Ang Huling El Bimbo," "With a Smile," "Ligaya," "Magasin," "Pare Ko," and "Alapaap." It promises a candid and multi-faceted exploration of their remarkable journey, from their meteoric rise to their disbandment and eventual reunion.

Director Diane Ventura expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, stating that bringing Filipino art, talent, and creativity to a global platform has long been a dream. She highlighted the importance of contributing to a movement that reframes the Filipino narrative and offers a richer, more nuanced depiction of the nation's stories, humor, and depth.

Adding another exciting layer to the SDCC premiere, Kid Heroes has collaborated with the Eraserheads and DVent Pictures on a special one-shot comic book inspired by the film. Presented in an anthology format, the comic reimagines the band's story with a blend of music, mythology, and heroism, depicting the members as superhero zombie fighters using their music to spread positivity and combat evil.

The creative team behind the comic includes writers Patricio Ginelsa and Justin Quizon, with art by Raymund Lee, Felix Morales, and Ardie Aquino. Fans can also look forward to two exclusive covers: one created by acclaimed artist Whilce Portacio (known for his work on "The Punisher" and "X-Men") specifically for SDCC 2025, and another by Stephen Segovia (of DC Comics fame) for the SuperManila edition.

Debuting at an event like San Diego Comic-Con, which has grown into one of the world's most influential gatherings for creative industries since its founding in 1970, truly underscores the cultural impact and international recognition of the Eraserheads' legacy and this new documentary.

Pedro Pascal says ‘Fantastic Four’ reboot focuses on family and unity

Get ready for a fresh take on Marvel's First Family! According to stars Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby, the upcoming film 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' is powered by themes of collective strength and the optimistic spirit of the 1960s.

Helmed by 'WandaVision' director Matt Shakman, this movie serves as a reboot for the Fantastic Four franchise, arriving a decade after the last big-screen attempt faced challenges at the box office and with critics.

Featuring a stellar cast, the film embraces a retro-futuristic, 60s-inspired aesthetic to introduce the iconic team: Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, also known as Mister Fantastic; Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, the Invisible Woman; Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, the Human Torch; and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm, The Thing.

Tasked with protecting humanity, the quartet must harness their unique bond and combined superhero abilities to confront the formidable cosmic entity Galactus, voiced by Ralph Ineson, and his herald, the Silver Surfer, played by Julia Garner.

Speaking about the film in London, Pascal highlighted its central message. "It’s about family. It’s about caring for humankind. It’s about protecting human innocence and knowing that you can’t do it alone. We can only do it together," he shared.

For the 50-year-old actor, stepping into the Marvel Cinematic Universe felt like "an actor’s dream." Pascal expressed enthusiasm for joining an ensemble that honors the characters and stories that first captivated audiences in 1961, appreciating the film's optimistic and pure-hearted vision.

Vanessa Kirby, who is expecting her first child, found playing Sue Storm – a character who has a baby in the movie – particularly insightful. "She really changed my whole perspective on it, honestly," Kirby stated, adding that portraying a character who seamlessly balances being a working mother and a vital team member taught her that "everything is possible as a woman."

Pascal, Kirby, Quinn, and Moss-Bachrach have been on a global tour promoting the movie and have often praised the genuine bond they've developed throughout the process. Moss-Bachrach, also known for his role in the hit show "The Bear," commented on his fortunate position, splitting his year working with deeply loved colleagues both in Chicago and now on this film in London.

'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' is set to begin its worldwide theatrical release on July 23.

LOOK: ‘Solo Leveling’ gets live-action adaptation starring Byeon Woo-seok

The wildly popular fantasy series 'Solo Leveling' is officially heading to Netflix as a live-action adaptation, with actor Byeon Woo-seok confirmed to star.

The live-action series will follow the journey of Sung Jin-woo, initially an E-rank Hunter, the lowest possible classification. After a near-fatal encounter within one of the mysterious Gates, he gains extraordinary powers, embarking on a path to level up and evolve from an overlooked figure into humanity's most formidable defender against monstrous threats.

Originating on KakaoPage in 2018, 'Solo Leveling' first gained immense popularity as both a web novel and later a webtoon. Across these formats, the series has garnered over 14.3 billion cumulative views, establishing itself as a major Korean fantasy franchise.

Building on this success, an anime adaptation premiered in January 2024, following an initial trailer release in July 2022. The anime quickly gained international acclaim, notably securing prestigious awards at the 2025 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, including the coveted Anime of the Year and Best Action categories, marking a significant achievement for a Korean-origin title.

The series' rise has also seen moments of sorrow, particularly the passing of webtoon artist Jang Su-rak, known as DUBU, in July 2022 at the age of 40 due to a chronic illness. His distinctive and atmospheric illustrations played a crucial role in shaping the visual identity of the 'Solo Leveling' world for many readers and viewers.

For the upcoming live-action adaptation, Byeon Woo-seok will portray the lead character, Sung Jin-woo. Byeon recently achieved significant recognition for his breakout role as Ryu Sun-jae in the romantic comedy 'Lovely Runner,' a series he has described as a major milestone in his career. His previous work includes roles in '20th Century Girl' and 'Record of Youth.'

Directing the series are Lee Hae-jun and Kim Byung-seo, who previously collaborated on the disaster film 'Ashfall.' They will reunite to helm the live-action project, aiming to translate the dynamic world of 'Solo Leveling' to the screen.

The adaptation is produced by Kakao Entertainment and SANAI PICTURES. Production plans include utilizing extensive large-scale visual effects to realistically portray the series' fantastical environments, unique monster designs, and intense action sequences.

While a specific release date has not yet been announced, the development of a live-action series for Netflix represents a significant step in the ongoing expansion of the 'Solo Leveling' narrative, bringing its acclaimed story to new audiences and formats.