DENNIS TRILLO Not Yet Ready To Go Bold

Dennis Trillo's sexy dance sequence in one particular episode in the afternoon drama Magdusa Ka had caused quite a stir. Does this mean that he is now ready to shed his boyish image for a more daring role.

Dennis, who looked quite unsure, said "Siguro willing, pero hindi naman ganoon eksaktong eksena. Siguro puwede naman na i-showcase yung iba ko pang talent sa ibang paraan, di ba?"

Dennis also said that he has no plans in revealing more of himself and join the "daring bandwagon"—a move previously made by fellow Kapuso actor Dingdong Dantes, who recently showed skin in Bench's billboards. However, he hinted that it might be possible.

"Siguro in time," Dennis said. "Pero kasi nakita ko yung mga gawa ni ‘Dong, e. Medyo hindi ko pa kaya, na medyo ganoong ka-daring. Siguro ‘pag dumating yung trabaho na kailangan mong gawin yun, siguro kung wala na akong choice talaga, e, kaya. Pero ngayon, ayokong makipagsabayan sa kanya dahil siya na yun ,e."

ANGEL LOCSIN, the New Folded & Hung Endorser Replacing CLAUDINE BARRETTO?

Will there be an issue between Claudine Barretto and Angel Locsin over the Folded and Hung endorsement?

Minsan nang nagkrus ang landas ng Kapamilya actresses na sina Claudine at Angel over a supposedly snubbing incident. Kalilipat pa lang ni Angel sa ABS-CBN that time.

It was reported that when she was placed in a dressing room then already occupied by Claudine and other Star Magic female stars, lumabas daw si Claudine hanggang sa tuluyan nang nagpalipat ito sa ibang dressing room.

Both camps denied the incident. Wala raw ganitong nangyaring eksena and the issue died down immediately.

Now, it is a known fact that Claudine is the original female endorser of Folded and Hung. Kauna-unahan din siyang celebrity endorser ng said clothing line at sumunod na lang sa kanya si Polo Ravales when it decided to advertise the male line.

When Claudine got pregnant over her first child to husband Raymart Santiago, pinalitan muna siya ng isa pang Star Magic star na si Maja Salvador.

Nagbalik showbiz na si Claudine at natapos na ang contract ni Maja, so Claudine was reportedly asked back to the fold—no pun intended. From two separate sources, napag-alaman na nag-pictorial na nga raw si Claudine for the coming new campaign of Folded and Hung.

Tila walang alam ang ikalawa naming kinausap for confirmation about this na si Angel na nga ang ilu-launch ng Folded and Hung as its new endorser this June 21 in a very big way sa TriNoMa raw. Our second source said that they will go back on us dahil wala nga silang alam dito, although like our first source, na-confirm na natuloy nga raw ang pictorial ni Claudine. There was no more follow-up sa pagtatanong namin.

Ang inisip na lang namin, baka naman magiging parehong female endorsers sina Claudine and Angel ng Folded and Hung.

Source: Erece, Philippine portal

DAVID COOK Asked Out Kimberly Caldwell

David Cook asked out former "Idol" star Kimberly Caldwell on live television Wednesday night -- and last night he finally cashed in.

See video below:

Before the Date

After the Date

May 26 TV Ratings: KIM CHIU's "My Girl" Leads Kapamilya's Primetime Programs; Placed 5th in the Ratings

The Pinoy version of the hit Koreanovela My Girl, starring Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson, premiered last night, May 26. My Girl posted a rating of 28 percent to take the fifth position in the daytime race, and more importantly topping all ABS-CBN programs.

Although My Girl's debut performance in the ratings game is quite astonishing, GMA-7's formidable quartet—Dyesebel, Joaquin Bordado, Babangon Ako't Dudurgin Kita, and 24 Oras—remained strong in the Top 4 positions. The new Kimerald primetime series, which replaced Claudine Barretto's Maligno, went up against the latter part of Dyesebel (39.8 percent) and most part of Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita (31.3 percent).

ABS-CBN's reality program Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus also benefited from My Girl's strong showing as it posted a high 26.4 percent, which is good for sixth place. Former top Kapamilya show The Singing Bee dropped to seventh place with 25.8 percent.

Completing the Top 10 are TV Patrol World, Lobo, and The Legend.

In the daytime race, ABS-CBN's new afternoon soap Ligaw Na Bulaklak starring Roxanne Guinoo also had its debut Monday. The replacement show of Prinsesa ng Banyera got 15.6 percent to take the seventh place.

Kaputol ng Isang Awit posted the highest rating of the day with 20.5 percent; followed by Daisy Siete, Eat Bulaga, Magdusa Ka, and El Cuerpo Deseo.

Here are the comparative TV ratings of ABS-CBN and GMA-7 shows for May 26 based on the overnight ratings conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households:

Non-Primetime:
SiS (GMA-7) 9.3%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 5.6%
Da Big Show (GMA-7) 12.8%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 13.3%
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 19.3%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 17.2%
Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 19.9%; Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) 18.4%; Ligaw na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) 15.6%
Kaputol ng Isang Awit (GMA-7) 20.5%; El Cuerpo Deseo (ABS-CBN) 17.6 %

Primetime:
Gobingo (GMA-7) 15.8%; Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) 15.9%
24 Oras (GMA-7) 31.3%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 23%
Joaquin Bordado (GMA-7) 34.8%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 25.8%
Dyesebel (GMA-7) 39.8%; Lobo (ABS-CBN) 22.9%
Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita (GMA-7) 31.6%; My Girl (ABS-CBN) 28%
The Legend (GMA-7) 21.9%; Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus (ABS-CBN) 26.4%
Pinoy Idol Extra (GMA-7) 12.9%; Lovers (ABS-CBN) 16.6%
Kung Ako Ikaw (GMA-7) 10.5%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 8.3%

Source: AGB via Philippineportal

"YES Magazine" June 2008 Issue Features Ex-Couple GABBY CONCEPCION and SHARON CUNETA

For the month of June, YES! Magazine features separate interviews on ex-couple Gabby Concepcion and Sharon Cuneta.

In his 12-page feature, Gabby talks about his return to Philippine showbiz, his problem with his contracts (which his current manager Rose Flaminiano helps to explain), his anger and disappointments in the business, his life in the U.S., wife Ginbee Gonzales, his plans for the future, KC, and of course—hesitant at first and very cautious in discussing—Sharon Cuneta.

Gabby is careful in his words on revealing why their marriage did not work, but points to "outside influence" as one of the reasons.

He also says, "We did not live in a normal environment. Sharon is not a normal, ordinary person because, remember, she is a daughter of a mayor. She is rich... Not everybody is like that. And the same in my situation. I was barely 21, and I was in show business, and we were making one hit after another. Both of our lives were abnormal. We didn't see it that way back then, that's why we can't say who made a mistake or what went wrong. The whole thing was a disaster."

Sharon, on the other hand, for the first—and probably last—time, shares select stories about their break-up in her 10-page interview. To put a stop, as she says, to people talking "about things they really they don't know anything about."

Sharon did not reveal all there is to know about her separation with Gabby, but gave statements that would lead one to guess on what triggered Sharon to leave Gabby.

She says, "He's one of the most good-looking men in this business! In this country! So I could not have expected somebody that good-looking, that young and popular, to be very far away from temptations. Siguro, at that time, I just could not believe it because it was really the last thing I want. So, marami nang nangyayari, I don't want to get into details. Up to this day, I remind everyone nobody knows exactly why we separated. Truth be told, once we were married, he really was not the husband that I'd dreamt of."

More exclusives in the June issue of YES!—a 10-page photo gallery of the movie Caregiver, with 40 pictures provided by Sharon herself, with her own captions; a sentimental look-back at Sharon's pregnancy and birth to daughter KC, and the court documents declaring Gabby and Sharon's marriage null and void.

These and more in the June issue of YES! which is now available in all magazine outlets.

Star Cinema's CAREGIVER Graded "A" by Cinema Evaluation Board (CEB)

Members of the Cinema Evaluation Board (CEB) have decided to give a grade of "A" for Star Cinema's 15th anniversary offering, Caregiver. This government agency tasked to evaluate movies intended for commercial release recently announced that Sharon Cuneta's movie is eligible for a 100 percent amusement tax exemption.

Caregiver was shot mostly in London with cast members John Estrada, Rica Peralejo, Jhong Hilario, and Makisig Morales. The Megastar plays a grade school teacher who decides to give up her career in the Philippines to become a caregiver in a European country with her husband (played by John). Other stars of this movie include Boots Anson Roa, Mickey Ferriols, Lotlot de Leon, and John Manalo (who plays Sharon's son).

The last movie of Star Cinema to be given an "A" rating was the Metro Manila Film Fest entry Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo. ABS-CBN's production outfit will hold the premiere night of Caregiver later tonight, May 27, at SM Megamall.

DENNIS TRILLO Chosen to Play "GAGAMBINO"

After Kamandag and Joaquin Bordado, GMA-7 will again re-live one of Carlo J. Caparas' masterpiece - Gagambino.

GMA-7 has bought the rights to Gagambino, the local counterpart of Spiderman, which is set to premiere on September 2008.

GMA-7 is already preparing the female artists who will star in Gagamboy in various fields like equestrian, underwater, martial arts and harness.

And who will be the lead star of Gagambino? It will be Dennis Trillo according to source.

How CHARICE Made It To "DAVID FOSTER and FRIENDS" Benefit Concert

The young singing sensation continues to count her blessings, among them making it to the elite list of people prolific songwriter, producer and musician David Foster call friends as they will perform at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas on Friday, May 23, alongside Foster’s other friends such as Josh Groban, Andrea Bocelli, Michael Buble, Brian McKnight, Babyface and Katharine McPhee, among others.

Charice met with the famous composer/producer in Los Angeles last year before she taped her Ellen guesting. They flew together to Las Vegas on a private jet to watch the farewell show of Celine Dion at the Caesar’s Palace Colosseum.

All these seem to be happening so fast for the diminutive diva, after her ground-breaking guestings on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, Paul O’Grady Show in London, and just recently, Oprah.

Last Saturday, Charice shared the spotlight with Josh Groban, John Mayer and Alicia Keys in a show organized by Foster at the grand opening of the MGM Grand Casino-Hotel at Foxwoods in Connecticut.

Noted immigration lawyer Michael Gurfinkel and his wife Millie were with Charice and her mom Raquel in Connecticut and they shared their story with the Asian Journal. Atty. Gurfinkel helped expedite the issuance of US visas to Charice and her mom.

"David Foster put together and produced the very first show, featuring Alicia Keys, Josh Groban, John Mayer and, of course, the International Singing Sensation and pride of the Philippines, Charice. She appeared just before Josh and sang a medley of Whitney Houston hits (I Have Nothing and I Will Always Love You, from the movie The Bodyguard which starred Houston herself and Kevin Costner)," Millie shared.

Charice received a standing ovation, the only performer to receive one that night, and ovation, the only performer to receive one that night, and Foster asked the crowd after Charice finished her rousing rendition, "Would you like one more song?"

The audience cheered and shouted an enthusiastic "Yes!" The crowd’s request for an encore led David and Charice to do an unrehearsed performance of And I’m Telling You.

After they performed, the audience once again gave Charice yet another standing ovation.

Among those in the audience were Quincy Jones, and Michael Douglas with his wife Catherine Zeta-Jones.

Backstage, David, Alicia and Josh congratulated Charice for her "phenomenal performance." For her part, the young diva was just so happy to be a representative of the Philippines on such an important world stage, with some of the biggest names in entertainment. "I hope I make my kababayans proud," Charice said.

Source: ASIANjournal

Digital Film "Paupahan" Premieres June 22

Award-winning actor and businessman Allen Dizon is now a film producer. The former bold star produced this full-length film under his own company called ATD Entertainment Productions. Allen was named Best Supporting Actor during the 2007 Star Awards and the FAMAS Awards for his role as an aging macho dancer in Twilight Dancers.

Paupahan (international title: Crossroads)—directed by Joven Tan, with cinematography by top lensman Romy Vitug—is scheduled to have its theatrical run starting July 2. This movie features a powerhouse cast composed of Ms. Gloria Romero, Jay Manalo, Snooky Serna, Angelu de Leon, German Moreno, Krista Ranillo, Joseph Bitangcol, Kirby de Jesus and Allen himself.

Paupahan is graded "B" by the Cinema Evaluation Board. The film received R-13 classification from the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) without cuts.

Premiere nights are scheduled at SM Megamall on June 22 (Sunday) and SM Pampanga on June 30 (Monday).

Written by Dennis Evangelista, Paupahan is set in a slum area located next to a cemetery. Three seemingly unrelated but intertwining stories about the "living dead," marginal characters whose lives have hit a dead end, unravel the film's message.

According to producer Allen Dizon, "When it comes to logistics, production value and cast, our movie is close to mainstream independent films. Pinaghirapan talaga namin siya. As in best effort to come up with a quality film. We are eyeing international markets and festivals abroad for this film."

"I Will No Longer Return to Wowowee Even if They Asked Me To." - LARA QUIGAMAN

2005 Miss International Precious Lara Quigaman broke her silence regarding the issue on why she was axed on the ABS-CBN noontime show “Wowowee”.

In an interview with Boy Abunda on the Buzz Sunday afternoon, Precious admitted that she indeed brought her boyfriend in Hawaii last week when the noontime program held a special show in the island. But it’s not only her boyfriend that she brought with her but also her mom.

She said, “I was pulled out…siguro axed talaga is the term. I’ll tell you the story talaga… Nagalit si Kuya, Kuya Willie [Revillame]. There was a rule daw that I was not allowed to bring a boyfriend, which is very unclear to me. I did not know. I wasn’t told very clearly. The only time I was told was parang it was like a joke and I even… I’m not gonna even say that anymore. “Pero there was no rule to me. I didn’t understand that. And I knew naman talaga that if I was going to bring my boyfriend and my mom, dapat hindi maapektuhan ang work, which is what happened.

“I’m sure that the people from Wowowe who came with us, they can attest to it na hindi ko naman napabayaan ang work ko. I was never late. I was never absent for any rehearsal, for any TV guesting, for the show itself. I did my best. I gave my best. So, surprise lang talaga ako doon sa reason nila sa pagtanggal sa akin because I brought my boyfriend and my mom along,” Lara added.

Boy Abunda clarified with Lara that the rule forbidding any of its stars to bring their girlfriend or boyfriend to work is not a company rule of ABS-CBN. But each program of the kapamilya network has its own “house rules” and unfortunately in Wowowee, this is one of them.

Lara further explains, “The only time they saw my mom and my boyfriend was at the last day ng stay namin sa Hawaii. Only in the airport na nga lang, tapos nung nasa airport. My mom didn’t even watch the show para lang wala silang masabi. Kasi I was told, okay if they are coming, kung sasama sila, huwag na lang silang magpakita. Don’t let them come with you in the rehearsal or anything like that. And that was they did.”

Lara firmly declared that she will no longer return in Wowowee even if Willie Revillame and the rest of the staff will ask her back. She added that despite of the matter, she will still be a kapamilya and her fans can still watch her in “That’s My Doc.”

CHARICE PEMPENGCO Received 2 Standing Ovations at the DAVID FOSTER's Benefit Concert

Young Pinoy-International singer Charice hits global headlines once again as she got two standing ovations for her performance with musician-record producer David Foster's discoveries for a benefit concert at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas last Friday, May 23rd.

The benefit concert entitled “David Foster and Friends” features David Foster and his discoveries like Josh Groban, Andrea Bocelli and Michael Buble.

Charice sang a medley of Whitney Houston’s hits- “I Will Always Love You” and “I Have Nothing” infront of an audience of almost 10,000.

"Oh my gosh! A Star is born tonight." Foster said referring to Pinoy pride Charice.

PIOLO PASCUAL Invited to the 6th Paris Cinema International Filmfest

Piolo Pascual will grace the Festival Paris Cinema 2008 (Sixth Edition) as the first Filipino artist specially invited to the event which is honoring the Philippines this year.

Piolo received the invitation from Paris Mayor Delanoe and actress Charlotte Rampling as early as March of this year.

Some 40 Filipino films will be shown at the filmfest, with Star Cinema’s Caregiver (starring Sharon Cuneta) and Ploning (Judy Ann Santos) as possible opening films.

The festival will run from July 1 - 12, 2008.

According to the official website of the French Government Tourist Office, since it started last 2007, the festival gets stronger each year. Last year, 247 films from over 35 countries were shown to the public, with 150 celebrities from all over the world in attendance.

The likes of Juliette Binoche, Orlando Bloom, Jackie Chan, Johnny Depp, Jean Rochefort, Tim Roth, Oliver Stone, at Robin Wright Penn were some of the well-known celebrities who have graced the occassion since it was established.

This year, after honoring South Korea in 2006 and Lebanon in 2007, the Paris Cinema IFF will be honoring the Philippines.

LUCIDA DS Glutathione Owners to Sue Newscaster KORINA SANCHEZ for Libel

Dahil sa report ni Korina Sanchez sa The World Tonight, ANC (ABS-CBN News Channel), Bandila, at TV Patrol na nandaya diumano ng sangkap na glutathione ang mga produkto ng United Shelter Health Products na Lucida DS Glutathione (na ini-endorse nina Gabby Concepcion at Sen. Loren Legarda) at Vaniderm (na ini-endorso naman nina Toni Gonzaga at Maui Taylor)—nagbabanta ang Senior Vice President ng naturang kumpanya na si Ms. Maribel Galindez na magdedemanda sila ng kasong libel laban kay Korina sa susunod na linggo.

Ayon sa report ni Korina, sa halip na 500 mg, diumano'y 4.4 mg lang ang glutathione content ng Lucida DS at 5.4 mg naman ang sa Vaniderm. Pinasinungalingan ito ni Ms. Galindez.

Ayon pa kay Ms. Galindez, hindi lang sa iisang lugar nila balak magsampa ng demanda. Sasama rin sa pagdedemanda ang kanyang business partners. "Sasampahan namin next week si Korina sa Polomolok, Davao. Ganoon din ang mga business partner ko sa Iloilo, GenSan [General Santos City], Cagayan De Oro, Cebu, Iligan, Koronadal, Zamboanga. Lahat po nationwide."

Balak din daw nilang sampahan ng demanda si Korina sa Malaysia, Dubai at sa U.S. kung saan may mga distributors ang United Shelter Health Products.

Naglabas na nga ng official statement ang nasabing kumpanya sa ilang broadsheets at tabloids hinggil sa anila'y maling report ni Korina.

Balak din nilang gumawa ng posters na nakalagay ang official statement ng kanilang paglilinaw at larawan ni Gabby na ididikit sa mga botika para mabasa rin ng mga tao.

Dahil dito, mukhang hindi na rin itutuloy ng naturang kumpanya na maglagay ng commercial ng kanilang mga produkto sa ABS-CBN 2.

Kung hindi mareresolba ang gusot na ito, apektado rin ang ipalalabas na serye si Gabby with Claudine Barretto na Iisa Pa Lamang dahil malaking bagay ang TV commercial ng Lucida para sa programa.

Next week, may surprise visit din sa isang ahensya si Ms. Galindez at si Gabby para kumuha ng document support na hindi peke ang naturang produkto.

PBB Teen Edition Plus 8th Nomination Night: ROBI, NICOLE and VALERIE are Nominated

The 8th nomination night of Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus was held as scheduled and the three housemates nominated for eviction are Valerie Weignmann, Nicole Uysiuseng and Robi Domingo.

Tonight’s nomination ceremony was again done face to face, but this time without blindfolds!

Both Nikki and Valerie received 5 nomination points while Robi received 4.

When asked why they should be saved from evictions, Nikki said, “Marami pa akong kayang patunayan. Marami pa akong dapat gawin. At nandito pa si Beauty.” Robi said “marami na akong napatunayan at kaya pang patunayan”. Valerie said “I want to mag-aral ng tagalog more and enjoy my time more.”

PINOY IDOL Top 24 Elimination Night: Who Got Kicked Off?

Dio Paolo, Elliot Andal, Bev Ejercito & Drizzle Muniz were eliminated on Pinoy Idol's first elimination night.

Twenty Pinoy Idol hopefuls are left and will move on to the next round.

Yam Laranas' THE ECHO Teaser Poster, Movie Clips and Reviews

“…the mood and tone were really good, there were a few really shocking moments, and making Jesse (Bradford) an ex-con really added a new layer to it…” - Todd Brown, Twitchfilm

Here’s the very first review on Yam Laranas' first international movie The Echo written by Todd Brown of Twicthfilm.net:

Long time Twitch readers may well remember us talking about Filipino horror film Sigaw a couple years back. Written and directed by Yam Laranas it came late enough in the run of Asian horror films – and in some ways played to the standard conventions of the genre enough - that many overlooked it but Sigaw was such a well crafted little gem of a film that introduced some subtle changes to the genre that I truly believe it is one of the last truly important films to come out of that initial Asian horror boom.

And so I have been tracking with great interest the development of the English language version of the film. Titled The Echo it again puts Laranas at the controls shooting a script adapted from his own by the writing duo of Eric Bernt and Shintaro Shimosawa. The result feels more like a riff on the themes that drove the original film than a straight up remake and it is arguably the most art house oriented picture to come out of Roy Lee’s very commercially minded – in a good way – Vertigo Entertainment.

Jesse Bradford (Flags Of Our Fathers) stars as Bobby, a young man freshly released from prison after serving several years for killing a man who was trying to rape Bobby’s girlfriend (Amelia Warner). Bobby is looking to build a fresh life but where to begin? His old friends have either moved away or won’t return his calls, his girl has moved along with her life without him, he has no job, the only home available to him the shabby apartment left vacant when Bobby’s mother died alone and terrified of unseen voices while Bobby was in prison. Despite being constantly surrounded by the noise and bustle of New York City Bobby is isolated and alone.

But Bobby perseveres. His parole officer finds an employer will to take a risk on him, he slowly begins to reconnect with his girl, and he slowly begins to clear the signs of his mother’s descent into madness from the apartment. What could have happened to her? Why didn’t anyone help? And did the blame lie partially on Bobby himself for leaving her unsupported while in prison?

As the signs of his mother’s paranoia become more clear – a closet with interior deadbolts stocked with tin cans and an accumulation of garbage that makes it clear she locked herself into the confined space for days at a time – Bobby’s guilt begins to grow and become more forceful until his memories and shame begin to take physical shape. He sees her in the mess left behind and begins to be plagued by strange noises coming from the walls and floor of his apartment. But those noises are nothing compared to the sounds of violence coming regularly from the apartment next door, sounds of a young wife and her little girl being beaten by the husband. It’s a horrific situation but one that Bobby feels powerless to do anything about: after all, he’s a freshly paroled convict and the man is a cop.

For fans of the original the point of similarity is obvious: young man in new apartment has to cope with domestic violence next door. And anyone who has ever been in this situation – which I have – can tell you how truly debilitating and horrifying it is before you add the additional supernatural layer that the film(s) bring in. The changes are also quite obvious. In the original film the young man was simply striking out on his own, moving into his first apartment in a bid for independence. Bobby’s criminal history, the death of his mother, and the collapse of his relationship with his girlfriend are all new devices for this version and all add layers of depth that make Bobby a more difficult and rewarding character. That strength does come with a cost in the early going as Bobby is so isolated that a healthy percentage of the film is Bobby on his own with minimal dialogue but Bradford is up to the challenge. Some of the other characters could have used a little bit more work but this is Bobby’s film all the way through and Bradford delivers.

On the technical end both films are far more about building mood and tone than piling on shock after shock and again, Laranas applies his considerable technical skills to that end. The man is a hugely accomplished cinematographer, reluctant to use digital tricks of any sort, and while he has an outside director of photography on The Echo - as opposed to Sigaw, which he shot himself – his fingerprints are all over the visuals and shooting style. Helping greatly in building the tone of the piece is the stellar sound design work that makes it clear throughout that while Bobby may be isolated he can never, ever be truly alone when living in the big city.

The Echo is a moody piece of work, a slow burner rather than a big shocker, and one that will likely prove a little bit difficult to market as a result. Just like its predecessor was not one of the big dogs in the original Asian horror boom this one arrives late enough in the remake game that some of the images have become a little overly familiar but also just like the original it shows that there is still some life in these bones and still stories worth telling.

Source: yamlaranas

PINOY IDOL Update: Top 12 Girls Performance Night

VIDEO LINKS:

1. Regene Ong - Fever by Elvis Presley (Watch here)

Wyngard Tracy: “Your are very sexy, full of character, really daring and i really like your style.”
Ogie Alcasid: “I like your name. You’re very edgy.”

2. Gretchen Espina - Neither One of Us By Lani Misalucha (Watch here)

Ogie Alcasid: “Your tones were really good, really strong, it’s just that ang dumi ng konti. Next time mas linisin mo pa.”
Wygard Tracy: “Kontrolin mo yung facial expression mo, nalulukot ang mukha mo.”

3. Bev Ejercito - Crazy by Norah Jones (Watch here)

Ogie Alcasid: “You have a great sexy husky voice.”

4. Carol Leus - I Believe in You and Me by Whitney Houston (Watch here)

Wyngard Tracy: “Carol it wasn’t bad kaya lang i expect more.”

5. Drizzle Muniz - My Immortal by Evanessence (Watch here)

Jolina Magdangal: “Gusto ko ang energy mo pero kailangan mong magingat sa notes mo.”
Ogie Alcasid: “Medyo nag-false note ka.”

6. Jeni Rawolle - For Once in My Life by Vonda Shephard (Watch here)

Wyngard Tracy: "That’s the look of the star but in singing, mas magaling ka before.”
Ogie Alcasid: “Dati parang nasal ka. Ngayon i like it. I think your performance was good. I disagree with Wyngard.”

7. Sue Ellen Cubing - Love Thang by Michelle Williams (Watch here)

Ogie Alcasid: “Alam mo Sue i’ve always been a fan of yours. Next time walk the stage, enjoy it!”

8. Vren Villaflor - Fame by Irene Cara (Watch here)

Jolina Magdangal: “Gusto ko yung energy mo. Kahit sumasayaw ko o gumagalaw ka hindi nagbabago ang force nung boses na binibigay mo but kailangan mo pa siguro mag-practice ng dance steps.”
Wyngard Tracy: “I wanna hear her sing a more challenging song kasi kaya mo e.”

9. Penelope - Wild Horses by Natasha Beddingfield (Watch here)

Wyngard Tracy: “You improved so much! You’re a revelation.”

10. Mae Flores - Love Will Show You Everything by Jennifer Love Hewitt (Watch here)

Jolina Magdangal: “Dun sa level ng pagkanta parang hindi ko nakikitaan ng iba’t-ibang attack. Mas maganda kung mabibigyan mo ng iba’t-ibang feelings at saka hina buga hina buga.”
Ogie Alcasid: “Ang ganda mo.”

11. Jayann Bautista - Secret by Heart (Watch here)

Ogie Alcasid: “Nawala na yung hysterics. Dati para kang sinasaniban.”

12. Meryl David - You Mean The World To Me by Toni Braxton (Watch here)

Jolina Magdangal: “Merong mga notes na medyo alanganin pero performance-wise nag-improve ka.”

Sharon Cuneta's CAREGIVER International Screening

In celebration of Star Cinema's 15th anniversary and Ms. Sharon Cuneta's 30 years in showbusiness, Filipinos all over the world will be given a gift of opportunity to watch a world-class Filipino movie with the showing of Caregiver in various countries and continents.

International Premiere with Ms. Sharon Cuneta and the Cast
May 31 - Los Angeles - Alex Theater
June 1 - Honolulu - Hawaii Theater
June 6 - London - Prince Charles Theater
June 7 - Rome - Warner Theater

International Regular Screenings (only)
May 30-June 6 - Guam - Micronesia Mall
June 6-12 - Los Angeles - Cerritos Stadium Cinema
June 13-19 - Seattle - Regal Cinema East Valley
June 13-19 - Las Vegas - Regal Village Square Stadium
June 13-19 - San Diego - UA Horton Plaza
June 13-19 - Hawaii - Regal Dole Cannery Stadium 18
June 13-19 - San Francisco - UA Stonestown Twin
June 16 - Japan - venue to follow
June 19-21 - Qatar - Grand Pine Center
June 19-21 - Bahrain - Seef Cineplex
June 26-28 - Dubai - Al Ghurair Cinecity
June 26-28 - Abu Dhabi - Grand Al Mariah Cinema
July 3-4 - Sharjah (UAE) - Grand Megamall

PBB Teen Edition Plus 6th Eviction Night: RONA LIBBY Goes Home

Rona Libby, the Prisoner's Daughter from Dumaguete was evicted in Kuya's house on the 6th eviction night.

Robi Domingo got 57.11 percentage of votes while Rona only got 42.89%.

Philippine TV's Top 10 Pilot Episodes since 2007

PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) has compiled the Top 10 Pilot Episodes since 2007 based from the nationwide (NUTAM) tv ratings report of AGB Nielsen Philippines. Kapamilya shows dominated the list, check it out!

1. Kung Fu Kids (ABS-CBN) - 39%
2. Kokey (ABS-CBN) - 38%
3. Lobo (ABS-CBN) - 37.6%
4. Lastikman (ABS-CBN) - 37.4%
5. Princess Sarah (ABS-CBN) - 37.3%
6. Ysabella (ABS-CBN) - 37.2%
7. Dyesebel (GMA7)- 36.7%
8. Maria Flordeluna (ABS-CBN) - 36.4%
9. Pangarap Na Butuin (ABS-CBN) - 35.9%
10. Patayin sa Sindak si Barbara (ABS-CBN) - 35.4%

PINOY IDOL Update: Top 12 Guys Performance Night

VIDEO LINKS:

1. Robby Navarro - Whenever, Wherever, Whatever by Maxwell (Watch here)

He opened the Pinoy Idol Top 12 Guys performance show singing “Whenever, Wherever, Whatever” by Maxwell.

Ogie Alcasid: “Para akong nanonood ng concert. You did great Robby!”

2. JJ Jr. - You To Me Are Everything by the Real Thing (Watch here)

Jolina Magdangal: “Umpisa pa lang nakita ko na ang drive mo pero alam mo kailangan mong ingatan ang words mo. Kasi kahit anong ganda ng performance mo kung hindi mo alam ang words mo sayang lang.”

3. Elliot Andal - Sana ay Ikaw na Nga by Basil Valdez (Watch here)

Wyngard Tracy: “Elliot nawawala ka sa tono. There were 2 parts na talagang sintunado.”
Jolina Magdangal: “Ako tingin ko nagkaron ng improvement talaga sa performance mo.”
Ogie Alcasid: “You were almost perfect.”

4. Ram Chavez - My Hero by The Foo Fighters (Watch here)

Ogie Alcasid: “Ibang klase ka! Pambihira kang magperform.”
Wygard Tracy: “Ang tawag ko sa yo ‘others’, iba!”

5. Walton Zerrudo - She's Out of My Life by Michael Jackson (Watch here)

Jolina Magdangal: “Muntik na akong maiyak Walton. Ingat ka na lang sa ilang notes.”
Wyngard Tracy: “Enjoyin mo lang ang performance mo.”
Ogie Alcasid: “Na-o-off mic ka.”

6. Dio Paulo - Angels Brought Me Here by Guy Sebastian (Watch here)

Wygard Tracy: “You can do better than that, sayang.”
Jolina Magdangal: “Nararamdaman ko ang kaba. Maging natural lang.”
Ogie Alcasid: “Almost there but didn’t quite make it.”

7. Rye Estrada - Your Love by Alamid (Watch here)

Ogie Alcasid: “Ang malas mo lang dahil natapat ka sa akin. You are an incredible performer! You own that stage. Superb.”
Wygard Tracy: “Naalala ko sa ‘yo si Liza Minnelli.”

8. Sherwin Marquez - How Do You Heal a Broken Heart by Chris Walker (Watch here)

Jolina Magdangal: “You have to work on your speech and diction.”
Wyngard Tracy: “You’re uptight.”

9. Toffer Rei - Stigmatized by The Calling (Watch here)

Wygard Tracy: “Nagumpisa ka mahina pero nakabawi ka.”
Jolina Magdangal: “Nakita ko na nag-go-grow ka habang habang tumatagal yung kanta. Parang lumalaki ka!”
Ogie Alcasid: “You represent rock really well.”

10. Kid Camaya - A Song For You by Elliot Yamin (Watch here)

Ogie Alcasid: “You have improved so much talaga. Siguro bigyan mo pa ng konting buhay ang performance. Malinis ka naman kumanta e.”
Jolina Magdangal: “Ang galing ng pagkakanta mo pero parang iba yung ina-acting mo dyan.”
Wyngard Tracy: “Siguro mahiyain ka lang talaga noh? Or Duwag.”

11. Daryl Celis - Still With You by Eric Benet (Watch here)

Jolina Magdangal: “Nung una nadadala ako e pero parang banda dun sa mataas na tono, parang natalo ka ng kaba mo e. Wag kang papatalo sa kaba.”
Ogie Alcasid: “Sino ba tinitignan mo Daryl. Alam mo you’re blessed with everything. Appeal ibang klase, charmer ka e.”

12. Warren Antig - Ulitin by P.O.T. (Watch here)

Warren closed the show with his version of P.O.T.'s Ulitin.

Wyngard Tracy: “Pinrove mo ulit na magaling ka sa rock. Sana panindigan mo na kaya mong kumanta ng kahit anong klaseng music.”
Jolina Magdangal: “Magaling ka!”
Ogie Alcasid: “Di maipagkakaila na talagang napakagaling mo.”

HEART EVANGELISTA Mahal Pa Rin si JERICHO ROSALES

Isang source na nakakita kay Heart Evangelista ang nagkuwento sa amin na hindi raw maitatago ang kalungkutan ng batang aktres sa paghihiwalay nila ni Jericho Rosales.

“Nakatabi namin sila ng mommy niya sa airport, blangko ang tingin ni Heart, ang lungkot-lungkot niya. Totoo kaya sa sarili niya ang mga pinagsasasabi niya ngayon against Jericho o meron lang nagsusulsol sa kanya?

“Feel na feel mo ang lungkot kapag nakita mo siya, palagi siyang nakatingin sa malayo, mahal pa rin niya si Echo,” sabi ng aming source.

Laughing in the outside, crying in the inside daw ang tingin ng mga ito kay Heart, meron lang daw sigurong pinaligayang mga tao ang aktres sa ginawa niyang desisyon, pero hindi kumpleto ang buhay niya dahil wala si Echo.

JOHN LLOYD CRUZ and SARAH GERONIMO in "A Very Special Love"

It may not be "dear heart" anymore for John Lloyd Cruz and Sarah Geronimo, but there will still be "A Very Special Love" and a movie for them.

Last year unang na-announce na nagbabalak magsanib-puwersa ang Star Cinema at Viva Films na i-remake ang kauna-unahang movie ni Sharon Cuneta 30 years ago, ang Dear Heart. It would have starred Star Magic's John Lloyd and Viva Artist Agency's Sarah.

Nang nalaman ito ng Megastar, hindi siya pumayag na gawan ito ng remake and she said so vocally. Out of respect to both Viva and ABS-CBN's biggest star, hindi na lang ito itinuloy. This doesn't mean though na hindi na matutuloy ang pagtatambal nina John Lloyd at Sarah on the big screen dahil nabigyan pa rin sila ng replacement project.

Nagsimula na last week ang shooting ng pelikulang A Very Special Love ng Star Cinema, starring John Lloyd and Sarah mula sa direction ni Cathy Garcia-Molina. It also stars Joross Gamboa, Matet de Leon, Al Tantay, Gio Alvarez, and Irma Adlawan. This will be Star Cinema's fifth movie to be released this year after My Big Love, Supah Papalicious, When Love Begins, and Caregiver na ipalalabas on May 28 nationwide.

June ang playdate ng A Very Special Love and it will still be part of Star Cinema's 15th anniversary special presentation na pasisimulan ng Caregiver ni Sharon Cuneta.

MARIAN RIVERA's Response to the 'Marian YouTube Scandal'

Nag-react na si Marian Rivera sa mga naglalabasang youtube video ng "Marian Scandal" kung saan ipinakitang galit ang aktres at mukhang may kaaway.

"Ganito yun," simula niya. "Nasa set kami sa Subic. Alam ng lahat na bawal ang mag-video lalo na kung hindi pa umeere ang episode. Nakita ko siyang [yung lalake sa YouTube] kumukuha ng video at biniro ko ng ‘Kuya, nagbi-video kayo, bawal ‘yan.' Ang sagot ba naman, ‘Bakit, ikaw ba ang bini-video ko?' Pakialam ko raw. Pabalang ang sagot at nagulat ako, nagkasagutan kaming dalawa.

"Tinanong ko kung staff siya. Taga-processing daw siya. Nagulat ako, bakit ganun ang reaction niya sa akin. Kahit payat at maliit ako, hindi ako papayag apihin. Caviteña ako, lalaban ako! Walang nang-aapi sa akin!" lahad ni Marian.

Sinagot din nya ang paratang na sya ang paulit ulit na sumasampal sa lalake sa youtube video kahit hindi naman ipinakita ang totoong mukha ng may-ari ng kamay.

"Wala akong sinampal, wala akong sinaktan," mariing sabi ni Marian. "Ni hindi ko nga siya hinawakan, nagkasagutan lang kami. Inawat na kami ng staff. Dapat hinamon ko na lang siya ng suntukan!"

Feeling ba niya frame-up ang nangyari? Bakit may nag-video ng nangyari at bakit edited?

"Bahala na sila," sabi niya. "Ang importante sa akin, hindi ako nag-power trip. Okey lang siraan at pintasan nila ako, tanggap ko lahat na kaparte ng trabaho ko ito. Dapat masanay na ako, dahil lahat na lang ng kilos ko... Tinatanong ko lang ang manager ko [Popoy Caritativo], kung bakit ayaw akong tantanan. Ganun din ang sinasabi niya, na bahagi ito ng showbiz at kailangan kong masanay."

Ang hindi raw ipinakita sa video ay ang nangyari kinabukasan—ang pagbabalik ng lalake sa set at kinausap si Marian.

"The next day, bumalik siya, nagkaayos kami at nagkapaliwanagan kami. Alam ko sa sarili ko na ipinagtanggol ko lang ang sarili ko, dahil binastos ako. Mali ba ang ginawa ko?" balik tanong ni Marian.

What Happened to MARIAN RIVERA (Marian Scandal)?

This video shows an incensed Marian Rivera. According to the one who sent the video, this validate the rumors about her being primadonna, bigheaded, and proud. But everything has its own reason....

Now the big question is...Is this the true Marian Rivera that we pinoy started to love? Or she was just aggravated by an incident only she and that man could identify?

You be the judge.

RICHARD GUTIERREZ and KC CONCEPCION in GMA Films and Regal Entertainment's 2008 Valentines Offering

Tuloy na tuloy na ang Valentine movie nina Richard Gutierrez at KC Concepcion next year from GMA Films and Regal Entertainment. The contract signing was happened last May 22, 11 am at the 16th floor of GMA Building Board Room.

IMPOSSIBLE DREAM.

Mula pa sa simula, everyone wanted to see Richard and KC on screen but it seemed an impossible dream. Richard is an exclusive GMA Films artist at si KC, ipinahayag na noon na pipirma sa Star Cinema as an exclusive artist.

Making the Richard-KC team-up happen began in an early morning talk nina Noel Ferrer and Joey Abacan, VP for GMA Program Management. They wanted to suggest the idea to Star Cinema.

Sinundan ito ng public pronouncement ni GMA Films President Annette Gozon-Abrogar, when she said that GMA Films is open to the possibility of a co-production deal with Star Cinema. The next move was for GMA Films to pursue this co-production initiative along with KC's managers, Sandra Chavez and Shirley Kuan. And, in a way, tumulong na rin pareho sina Richard at KC sa pagiging vocal nila pareho na sana nga ay magkaroon ng isang pelikula na magkasama sila.

THE DEAL.

A deal was set between GMA Films and Star Cinema. May sariling pelikula na gagawin ang film arm ng ABS-CBN starring Richard and KC at mauuna itong ipalalabas this August 2008. And then, ang GMA Films naman ang mag-a-announce ng kanilang separate movie, also starring the two stars na may Valentine 2009 release naman.

Nauna na nga ang dalawang big announcements ng Star Cinema. First ang pagpirma ni KC as an exclusive talent with a three-picture contract. Ikalawa, ang pagpirma ng isang picture deal ni Richard sa Star Cinema para maging kauna-unahang partner ni KC sa big screen.

It was also announced that the Star Cinema movie will be directed by Ms. Joyce Bernal and that some of the scenes will be done in Greece.

Naghintay muna ng dalawang linggo ang kampo ng GMA Films bago magbigay ng sariling announcement dahil nasa Europe pa si Annette, nasa Dubai si Richard for his Codename: Asero, at busy naman si KC sa UN work niya sa Marawi.

Tuesday, May 20, of this week na-set ang announcement. But some technicalities surfaced na kailangang ayusin about the contract of KC sa Star Cinema kung kaya't na-postpone ito.

"WHEN I MET YOU."

Wednesday, May 21, natuloy naman ang story conference and pictorial nina Richard at KC for their Star Cinema project. Meanwhile, the talks continued between GMA Films and Star Cinema para maayos ang ilang gusot and, presumably, all went well for GMA Films to do its own announcement Thursday morning, May 22.

Alas-onse pa lang ng umaga, kumpleto na ang triumvirate ng GMA Films na sina Ms. Annette Gozon-Abrogar, Joey Abacan, at Noel Ferrer. Ayos na rin ang boardroom ng 16th floor arranged by the Corporate Communication unit headed by Angel Javier. Maaga ring nagsidatingan ang GMA TV crew pati na rin sina Ricky Lo at Lhar Santiago, at sumunod na ang mga publicists ng GMA Films.

Sa background, pinapatugtog ang kantang "When I Met You." We later found out na ito pala ang magiging title ng pelikula na nina Richard at KC, na isinulat at ididirehe ni Direk Joey Reyes, na nasa grounds na rin at hinihintay ang pagdating nina Richard at KC.

According to Direk Joey, When I Met You is a "sweeping romance" about the joy of being young, alive, and in love. Basically, sabi niya, it is everything that's beautiful in the world.

When I Met You is scheduled to open February 11, 2009. Like the first four Valentine movies of Richard—Let The Love Begin, I Will Always Love You, The Promise, and My Best Friend's Girlfriend—it will be co-produced by Regal Entertainment.

Source: philippineportal

KRISTI YAMAGUCHI is Dancing With The Stars GRAND WINNER

After ten weeks of entertaining drama, camaraderie and dazzling performances, figure-skating champ Kristi Yamaguchi and her professional partner Mark Ballas, were crowned champion of Dancing with the Stars.

“This is just the icing on the cake,” Kristi said after winning the mirrored disco ball. “I honestly thank all the fans out there … everyone who’s made this a dream experience.”

Kristi got a perfect score of 60 on Monday’s show and in combination with enough viewer votes, she was crowned the winner on Tuesday night.

Watch the DWTS winners announcement here.

DAVID COOK is American Idol GRAND WINNER

Grown-up rocker David Cook has triumphed over smooth-voiced teen David Archuleta to become the new "American Idol."

While Archuleta was heaped with praise by the judges the night before, the voters decided otherwise -- and it wasn't even close. Host Ryan Seacrest said during Wednesday's show that 12 million votes was the difference.

Cook was overcome by emotion, bending toward the stage after his name was announced. "This is amazing," he said. "This is all your fault," he added, addressing the brother who Cook had accompanied to the "Idol" audition that started it all.

Cook immediately took the microphone and began to sing "Time of my Life," which won the annual "Idol songwriting competition."

VIDEO LINKS

Top 12 Group Song (Watch here)

Renaldo Lapuz - "I am your Brother" (Watch here)

Cook & Archuleta Duet - “Hero” (Watch here)
Mike Myers Skit (Watch here)
Syesha & Seal - “Waiting for You” (Watch here)
Jason Castro - “Hallelujah” (Watch here)
Girls sing with Donna Summer (Watch here)
Carly Smithson & Michael Johns - “The Letter” (Watch here)
Jimmy Kimmel roasts Idol (Watch here)
Boys sing with Bryan Adams (Watch here)
David Cook & ZZ Top - “Sharp Dressed Man” (Watch here)

PRECIOUS LARA QUIGAMAN "Fired Out" of Wowowee

Should love and career be mixed?

That has been a showbiz dilemma since time immemorial. Some know how to keep a happy balance between the two, but only if the lovers involved are both in showbiz. It’s an entirely different altogether if one of the partners is non-showbiz and therefore isn’t familiar with the ins and outs of the profession (such as irregular working schedule and, yes, being thrown into the company of equally attractive people who can generate, maybe unwittingly, irresistible temptations).

This dilemma is brought into focus by the recent Wowowee incident that resulted in (2005 Miss International) Precious Lara Quigaman as casualty.

We haven’t seen Precious as Willie Revillame’s co-host (with Mariel Rodriguez, Valerie Concepcion and Pokwang) these past few days, have we? This was after Wowowee was mounted “live” in Honolulu two weeks ago. When the Wowowee entourage came back, Precious was still on the show and it was only because those few episodes had been taped in advance. And then, she was gone. Just like that. Naglahong parang bula.

Was Precious, as per the rumors, “fired”? Or was she merely, ehem, “eased out”? If so, why?

Cory Vidanes, head of the ABS-CBN TV production, said in a text message to Funfare, “No, she wasn’t fired. Will update you on further developments.”

But here’s what really happened, according to an unimpeachable source (who was with the Wowowee Honolulu entourage):

“Company rule discourages any host, male or female, from bringing along his/her girlfriend/boyfriend to the studio, not especially on out-of-town trip, so as not to be distracted from work. Rules are rules.

“Anyway, Mariel and Valerie obeyed the rule. Mariel could have brought along her boyfriend Zanjoe Marudo but she did not. Neither did Valerie (whoever her boyfriend is). But Precious ‘violated’ the rule and brought her boyfriend (said to be a rich Chinese who is ‘possessive’ daw) along anyway. Before the group left Manila, Precious’ attention was called and she said, ‘You can cancel my ticket if you want to.’ She was defiant. Usually, back home she would bring along the guy to the studio and make him wait at the dressing room, that’s why Precious couldn’t concentrate on her work and she’s always in a hurry, parating nagmamadali, always trying to find out if the guy is okay or not.

“That’s what happened in Honolulu. Instead of ‘bonding’ with the group after the show, Precious kept to the guy’s company. Sa airport pa lang, sweet na sweet na sila; mas lalo pa doon sa Honolulu.

“Precious has developed an ‘attitude.’ Even during her reign as (2005) Bb. Pilipinas-International, she was said to have an ‘attitude’ already and she gave the Bb. Pilipinas people headaches. She has a lot of do’s and don’t’s even in the sitcom That’s My Doc! (with Aga Muhlach) — bawal makipag-holding hands sa leading man, walang kissing, maraming bawal.”

Asked if it was Willie who laid down that “rule,” the Funfare source said no. “It’s company rule. Besides, hindi type ni Willie si Precious.”

And that’s how the “precious” cookie crumbled.

Asked for comment, Rowell Octavio, Precious’ manager, said also in a text message to Funfare, “We’ll give our side within this week. You will be among the first to know. Definitely, we will answer all the questions.”

Now, was Precious “fired,” or was she “eased out?”

You draw your own conclusion.

Source: rfl