Easter is not just about the egg hunts and chocolate bunnies; it can also be the perfect time for families to come together and share in the magic of cinema. As we hop into 2024, make some popcorn, gather your peeps, and settle in for an egg-citing movie marathon. We've curated a list of the top eight family-friendly Easter movies that will ensure your holiday is full of fun, laughter, and heartwarming moments.

 1. Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway (2021)

The sequel to the 2018 movie brings back our favorite rebellious rabbit. With a blend of live-action and CGI, 'Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway' is a fun-filled adventure that the whole family can enjoy. Follow Peter and his friends as they navigate the complexities of life outside the garden, making it a perfect start to your Easter movie binge.

2. Hop (2011)

Blending animation with live-action, 'Hop' tells the story of E.B., the adolescent son of the Easter Bunny who heads to Hollywood to become a drummer. It's a delightful story that entertains the age-old question: What if the Easter Bunny wanted more out of life? With its catchy soundtrack and endearing characters, 'Hop' will have everyone's foot tapping.

3. Rise of the Guardians (2012)

Although not specifically about Easter, this animated feature includes the Easter Bunny as one of the mythical heroes. 'Rise of the Guardians' showcases the teamwork of Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, Jack Frost, and the Easter Bunny himself as they work together to protect the innocence of children around the world. It’s a visually stunning film with a powerful message about belief and heroism.

4. Winnie the Pooh: Springtime with Roo (2004)

This heartwarming movie captures the essence of Easter with a Hundred Acre Wood twist. When Rabbit plans spring cleaning instead of an Easter celebration, it's up to Roo to show him the true meaning of the holiday. It's a sweet story about friendship, traditions, and understanding the importance of compromise and joy.

5. Ice Age: The Great Egg-Scapade (2016)

In this hilarious holiday special from the 'Ice Age' franchise, Scrat, Manny, Diego, and the rest of the crew embark on an egg hunt of prehistoric proportions. 'The Great Egg-Scapade' delivers a thrilling adventure as well as a storyline about the first ever Easter egg hunt, which will surely crack up the entire family.

 6. The Dog Who Saved Easter (2014)

This family comedy showcases a lovable canine hero who must defend his local dog daycare from a pair of scheming dog-nappers. As a lesser-known Easter movie, 'The Dog Who Saved Easter' is ideal for animal lovers and provides plenty of laughs with a touch of suspense.

7. It's the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown (1974)

No holiday is quite complete without a classic Peanuts cartoon. 'It's the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown' is a timeless gem that depicts the Peanuts gang preparing for Easter, with Linus vehemently claiming that the Easter Beagle will take care of everything. It's a sweet, nostalgic pick, especially for parents who grew up with Charlie Brown and his friends.

8. Baby's Day Out (1994)

While not directly an Easter movie, 'Baby's Day Out' is a lighthearted comedy that fits well into the theme of a family-friendly Easter viewing. The story follows Baby Bink, who's taken on an adventure across the city, pursued by three inept kidnappers. Its "hide and seek" dynamics invokes an Easter egg hunt spirit, making it a fun inclusion to the list.

This Easter, take the time to relax and reconnect with your family over these enchanting movies. Whether you're in it for the giggles, the lessons, or the nostalgia, each of these eight picks provides something special to enhance your festivities. Enjoy the holiday, and may your Easter movie marathon be nothing short of egg-ceptional!

Welcome to our in-depth analysis of the action-packed masterpiece, "Nobody," directed by Ilya Naishuller. In this article, we delve into the unexpected turn taken by the talented Bob Odenkirk, who brilliantly reinvents himself as a formidable action hero. We explore the film's exceptional narrative, thrilling action sequences, and the captivating performances that make it a cut above the rest. Join us as we uncover the hidden depths of "Nobody" and why it has the potential to reign supreme among action flicks.

In Ilya Naishuller's "Nobody," audiences are treated to a refreshing twist as Bob Odenkirk, known for his role in "Better Call Saul," seamlessly transitions from a brilliant mind to an action hero akin to Liam Neeson's legendary characters. Despite the initial skepticism surrounding Odenkirk's suitability for such a role, his portrayal of Hutch Mansell proves to be a stroke of genius, showcasing his exceptional acting prowess. We embark on a thrilling journey that explores Hutch's unique set of skills and his struggle to leave behind a violent past. Brace yourself for a ride filled with adrenaline-pumping action, unexpected plot twists, and a stellar cast that elevates "Nobody" to new heights.

Unveiling Hutch Mansell's Mundane Existence

Naishuller expertly sets the stage by highlighting the monotonous routine of Hutch Mansell's daily life, cleverly emphasizing his desire for normalcy. Through a well-crafted montage, we witness the repetitive nature of Hutch's existence, symbolizing the chains that bind him to a life devoid of excitement. His marriage to Becca, played by the talented Connie Nielsen, suffers due to the very routines that provide stability for their children, Blake and Abby. We observe the delicate balance between Hutch's seemingly content life and the brewing tension that lies just beneath the surface.

A Catalyst for Change

Derek Kolstad's impeccable writing wastes no time thrusting viewers into the gripping narrative of "Nobody." The action is initiated when Hutch's suburban haven is invaded by two petty criminals, robbing them of their possessions. Here, we witness Hutch's self-imposed restraint, opting not to escalate the violence, much to the dismay of his son and disapproval of his macho neighbor. However, it is the potential loss of his daughter's cherished bracelet that awakens something within Hutch, propelling him on a relentless pursuit to retrieve it. Yet, "Nobody" transcends the traditional vigilante story, as subtle hints early on indicate that Hutch possesses a mysterious background beyond that of an average suburbanite. The presence of a secret man cave and his communication with his hidden brother Harry, portrayed by the enigmatic RZA, leave audiences questioning Hutch's true identity and the shadows he has left behind.

The Bus Scene: A Masterpiece of Action Choreography

Prepare to be blown away by the film's defining moment, the riveting bus scene that ushers in the heart-pounding action of "Nobody." Choreographed by the same team behind the iconic "John Wick" series, this meticulously crafted sequence showcases Hutch's latent skills gradually resurfacing. With each punch, kick, and maneuver, the intensity builds, leaving viewers at the edge of their seats. It is an action spectacle that will be remembered and applauded for years to come. 

Pacing and Performance

Naishuller masterfully maintains the film's momentum, capitalizing on the energy generated by the bus scene to propel the story forward. Clocking in at a swift 92 minutes, "Nobody" is a testament to the director's ability to captivate audiences without wasting a single moment. While some may argue for more development of supporting characters, particularly Becca and their children, the film's tightly woven plot evokes a sense of urgency, drawing parallels to the economy of storytelling seen in the highly acclaimed "John Wick" trilogy. It is within this framework that Bob Odenkirk shines as the driving force of the film. His exceptional performance effortlessly balances Hutch's family life and violent past, creating a multi-dimensional character who captivates viewers. Odenkirk's physicality adds further authenticity to the stunts and fight choreography, solidifying his transformation into an action star of extraordinary caliber. Notably, the supporting cast, including RZA and Christopher Lloyd, brings depth and nuance to their respective roles, bolstering Odenkirk's exceptional portrayal.

Naishuller's Vision and Filmmaking Flourishes

As the director of the visually audacious "Hardcore Henry," Naishuller occasionally indulges in stylistic flourishes that showcase his unique vision. Though some may argue that certain slow-motion montages set to unconventional music choices are overplayed, Naishuller skillfully balances these moments with the essence of the film. While "Nobody" may lack a sense of high stakes and jeopardy at times, it compensates by delivering a balanced dosage of action that appeals to a wide range of audiences. By prioritizing scene construction and action choreography over excessive plot complexities, Naishuller succeeds in crafting a truly enjoyable cinematic experience that resonates with viewers.

Conclusion

In a genre that often struggles to reinvent itself, "Nobody" emerges as a breath of fresh air, leaving a lasting impression on audiences craving adrenaline-pumping entertainment. Its tight pacing, riveting action sequences, and the remarkable transformation of Bob Odenkirk combine to create an unforgettable film. "Nobody" stands as a testament to the power of expertly crafted action scenes and the magnetic presence of a gifted actor. We are left eagerly anticipating the potential for a sequel and even fantasizing about the ultimate crossover between "John Wick" and "Nobody." As it hits theaters, "Nobody" promises an exhilarating rush that rejuvenates the action genre and reignites our love for the art of filmmaking.

AS THEY WELCOME VACCINATED AUDIENCES SOON IN NCR

MANILA, October 20, 2021 -- Now that cinemas are allowed to reopen in the National Capital Region (NCR) after being shut down for a year and seven months, theater operators are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the safety of moviegoers and cinema employees.

“That is the main goal right now,” says Charmaine Bauzon, president of The Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP).] “We have devoted the past 19 months of cinema closure identifying solutions and precautions based on science.  We will implement these measures to confidently welcome back movie fans to cinemas and send them home safe.”

Last Wednesday October 13, the Inter-Agency Task Force Against Covid-19 (IATF), placed NCR under Alert Level 3, paving the way for the reopening of cinemas, but with several restrictions: only fully vaccinated people will be admitted and seating capacity to be limited to 30 percent.  The actual date of reopening is still subject to confirmation -- the public is advised to wait for further announcement.

Cinemas are safe spaces

“We would like to assure the public that cinema is a safe place,” says Bauzon.  “In fact, LGUs have converted some theaters into vaccination centers, and no super-spreading were ever reported, even though people waited inside for hours.”

Indeed, there’s also a recent study in Germany which concluded cinemas are safer than almost any other indoor environment, as long as safety guidelines are followed like mask-wearing, physical distancing and proper air ventilation.  

The same German research took into account the following factors in its conclusion:

• People spend an average of only two hours at a cinema 
• People inside the cinema simply sit down and face the same direction which is known to reduce transmission risks
• People are not talking to each other during a movie, which minimizes possibility of infection

(Note: The aforementioned German study is entitled “Covid-19 Contagion via Aerosol Particles – A Comparative Evaluation of Indoor Environments” conducted by scientists at the Berlin Institute of Technology / Hermann-Rietschel-Institut. Link -- https://www.artcena.fr/sites/default/files/medias/kriegel_hartmann_2021_aerosols%20anglais.pdf)

Cinemas will strictly impose all safety protocols

Aside from adhering to IATF-mandated health standards, CEAP has also developed the “Sa Sine Safe Ka” protocols patterned after the “CinemaSafe” measures set by America’s National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) and endorsed by epidemiologists.  Dr. David F. Goldsmith, PhD, Occupational & Environmental Epidemiologist at the Milken Institute School of Public Health (U.S.A.) has reviewed the efforts of NATO and commented that, “These protocols demonstrate a serious, comprehensive effort by movie theater owners to identify potential risks, and reduce them.”  

[Watch the video testimonial about the CinemaSafe protocols with Dr. David F. Goldsmith at https://youtu.be/B-4feoqrLlM]

These protocols are:

• Monitoring of moviegoers’ body temperature as they enter the cinema
• Moviegoers to present authentic vaccination card
• Implement regulations set by the IATF and LGUs on facial coverings
• No eating inside the cinema
• Enforce socially-distanced seating
• Encourage contact-less transaction in ticket-purchasing
• Improved air ventilation
• Availability of hand sanitizers at the cinema entrance
• Mandatory hand-washing every 30 minutes for cinema employees
• Deep cleaning between screenings

[Watch the “Sa Sine Safe Ka” video featurette at https://youtu.be/QjseuWLsQjM]

Not feeling well? Stay at home. Please

CEAP would like to stress that only healthy, fully vaccinated people will be allowed back to cinemas.  “If you are experiencing a fever, cough, or other symptoms that could be related to COVID-19 – or think that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please stay home and we welcome you to join us again in the future,” concludes Bauzon.

Unlocking cinemas will save jobs

The 19-month long closure of cinemas has dealt a severe blow to the entire movie industry, leading to unprecedented massive unemployment.  It is estimated that a workforce of some 336,000 has lost its livelihood.  These are hardworking women and men from various fields intersecting the movie business:

Creative & Production: Directors, screenwriters, talents, editors, crew, bit players, caterers and runners

Distribution: Logistics team, production checkers, monitoring team, back office support

Exhibition: Cinema ticket-sellers, usher-porters, projectionists, snack bar personnel, janitors, branch management team

Others: Cinema suppliers, event organizers, employees of stores and restaurants around cinema premises

Thanks to the looming return of cinemas, these workers may now heave a sigh of relief.  

[Watch the “We Miss Cinemas” video featurette at https://youtu.be/55xyZGF1xN0]

Photo Credit: All handout images grabbed with permission from SM Cinemas’ YouTube channel

About Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP)

Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP) is an association of cinema owners and operators in the country that works to represent its 47 members and to collaborate with the different stakeholders of the motion pictures exhibition industry towards the attainment of common good and objectives.

CEAP is the only cinema exhibition trade organization in the country representing 1,039 movie screens nationwide.

After an eternity of cinema closure, the time has come to experience “Dune” on the big screen the way it’s meant to be seen.  Warner Bros. Philippines is happy to announce that the epic adventure will open exclusively in Philippine theaters on Wednesday, November 10.

As director Denis Villenueve (“Blade Runner 2049,” “Arrival”) has said: “`Dune’ has been made, designed, dreamed to be seen on a big screen.”

[Watch the “Dune - Big Screen Experience” featurette here]

The Academy Award nominated filmmaker directs Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures’ “Dune,” the big-screen adaptation of Frank Herbert’s seminal bestseller, considered one of the most influential books of the 20th century and credited with inspiring many of the greatest films of all time.  

A mythic and emotionally charged hero’s journey, “Dune” tells the story of Paul Atreides, a brilliant and gifted young man born into a great destiny beyond his understanding, who must travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe to ensure the future of his family and his people. As malevolent forces explode into conflict over the planet’s exclusive supply of the most precious resource in existence—a commodity capable of unlocking humanity’s greatest potential—only those who can conquer their fear will survive.

“I discovered the book in my teenage years and I remember being totally fascinated by its poetry, by what it was saying about nature—the true main character of Dune,” Villeneuve relates.  “Frank Herbert’s view of nature was absolutely mesmerizing—all those beautiful ecosystems he created.  His exploration of the impact and chaos caused by colonialism was a portrait of the 20th century that is still relevant today.  And through all of this was a young man struggling with his identity, trying to find his way in the world, as I was doing myself.  The way Paul discovers his identity through another culture was, for me, amazing.”

Villeneuve’s big screen adaptation fully immerses the audience in this profoundly moving story of Paul’s coming of age set against family rivalries, tribal clashes, social oppression and ecological disaster on the unforgiving, austere planet, creating a fantastical cinematic experience that is both epic and intimate.

When it came to casting the many roles, Villeneuve and the producers assembled an astonishing list of actors to fill the coveted roles, including Timothée Chalamet as our hero, Paul Atreides, alongside Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, Josh Brolin, Zendaya, Jason Momoa, Javier Bardem, David Bautista and many more.

“To my great pleasure, most of my first choices were available and willing to embark on this journey with me,” Villeneuve smiles.

Acclaimed screenwriters Jon Spaihts and Eric Roth, as well as Villeneuve, tackled the daunting adaptation of Herbert’s novel.  Spaihts offers, “This was a chance of a lifetime for me.  I first read Dune at probably 12 or 13, and at that age I was struck by it almost like scripture; it felt like one of the most profound things that I had read and became one of my annual reads, like The Lord of the Rings.”

“I was a fan,” Roth states.  “It has all the ingredients that come together to create a wonderful alchemy of storytelling: what happens to planet Arrakis, the father-son and mother-son storylines, the fact that women are very powerful… It seems modern and all of a sudden very pressing, and he wrote it in the `60s.”

“To me, ‘Dune’ is a psychological thriller, an adventure, a war movie, a coming-of-age movie.  It’s even a love story,” concludes Villeneuve, who at last is able to fulfill his lifelong dream of bringing the landmark work with its complex mythology to life.  “There’s a reason the book stayed on my shelf, beside my bed, all those years.”

Only in cinemas starting Nov. 10, “Dune” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a WarnerMedia Company.

Watch the main trailer for “The Batman” now, only in Philippine cinemas soon.  Also checkout the two new teaser posters featuring Batman and The Riddler.

Facebook:  https://fb.com/971400420384527 

YouTube: http://youtu.be/X6o8RZLRAIg 

About “The Batman”

From Warner Bros. Pictures comes “The Batman,” with director Matt Reeves (the “Planet of the Apes” films) at the helm and with Robert Pattinson (“Tenet,” “The Lighthouse,” “Good Time”) starring as Gotham City’s vigilante detective, Batman, and billionaire Bruce Wayne.

Also in the star-studded ensemble as Gotham’s famous and infamous cast of characters are Zoë Kravitz (“Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald,” “Mad Max: Fury Road”) as Selina Kyle; Paul Dano (“Love & Mercy,” “12 Years a Slave”) as Edward Nashton; Jeffrey Wright (the “Hunger Games” films) as the GCPD’s James Gordon; John Turturro (the “Transformers” films) as Carmine Falcone; Peter Sarsgaard (“The Magnificent Seven,” “Black Mass”) as Gotham D.A. Gil Colson; Barry Keoghan (“Dunkirk”) as Officer Stanley Merkel; Jayme Lawson (“Farewell Amor”) as mayoral candidate Bella Reál; with Andy Serkis (the “Planet of the Apes” films, “Black Panther”) as Alfred; and Colin Farrell (“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” “Dumbo”) as Oswald Cobblepot.

“The Batman” was written by Matt Reeves & Peter Craig.  Reeves and Dylan Clark (the “Planet of the Apes” films) are producing the film, with Simon Emanuel, Michael E. Uslan, Walter Hamada and Chantal Nong Vo serving as executive producers.  Reeves’ behind-the-scenes creative team includes Oscar-nominated director of photography Greig Fraser (“Lion,” upcoming “Dune”); his “Planet of the Apes” production designer, James Chinlund; editors William Hoy (the “Planet of the Apes” films) and Tyler Nelson (“Rememory”); Oscar-winning VFX supervisor Dan Lemmon (“The Jungle Book”); Oscar-nominated SFX supervisor Dominic Tuohy (“1917,” “Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker”); Oscar-nominated sound mixer Stuart Wilson (“1917,” the “Star Wars” franchise); Oscar-winning costume designer Jacqueline Durran (“1917,” “Little Women,” “Anna Karenina”) and costume designers Glyn Dillon (the “Star Wars” franchise) and David Crossman (“1917,” the “Star Wars” franchise); hair designer Zoe Tahir (upcoming “No Time to Die,” “Spectre”); and Oscar-nominated makeup designer Naomi Donne (“1917”).

Based on characters from DC.  Batman was created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger.  “The Batman” is set to open in theaters soon in select 3D and 2D and IMAX theaters and will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures.

October 19, 2021 -- Uncover the past. Protect the future. Watch the new international trailer of Columbia Pictures’ Ghostbusters: Afterlife, exclusively in Philippine cinemas soon.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/vstFiU4r-Cc 

And in case you missed it, watch what went down at the recent New York Comic Con during the Ghostbusters: Afterlife panel.  Check out the sizzle reel and photos below.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/cejjDDHlLqg 

About Ghostbusters: Afterlife

From director Jason Reitman and producer Ivan Reitman, comes Columbia Pictures’ Ghostbusters: Afterlife, the next chapter in the original Ghostbusters universe.

In Ghostbusters: Afterlife, when a single mom and her two kids arrive in a small town, they begin to discover their connection to the original ghostbusters and the secret legacy their grandfather left behind. The film is written by Jason Reitman & Gil Kenan. Based on the 1984 film Ghostbusters, an Ivan Reitman film written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis.

Starring Carrie Coon, Finn Wolfhard, Mckenna Grace and Paul Rudd, Ghostbusters: Afterlife’s executive producers are Dan Aykroyd, Gil Kenan, Jason Blumenfeld, Michael Beugg.

Ghostbusters: Afterlife will be distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.