Beat the Heat with May Movies at SM Cinemas!

Brace yourselves for a sizzling lineup of blockbuster films hitting the silver screen this May!

Secure your tickets early for the hottest releases at SM Cinemas, including must-see hits from around the globe. Beat the heat and chill indoors with the ultimate movie marathon experience and make May unforgettable with epic films and the coolest vibes only at SM Cinemas!

Here are the movies you don’t want to miss:

The Fall Guy (Action, Comedy, Romance)

The Fall Guy, which premiered in South by Southwest festival in March this year to favorable reviews, follows the story of stunt performer Colt (Ryan Gosling). When he suffers an injury from a stunt gone wrong, he packs up his bags and leaves his career and his girlfriend Jody (Emily Blunt) for good. But when actor Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) goes missing, Colt is brought back to the industry and reunites with Jody to get to the bottom of the mystery. What they uncover is so much more that they imagine, but will it be enough to bring Colt back to the film industry—and in Jody’s arms—once and for all?

Meet the Cast: With a cast like Ryan Gosling (Barbie, The Notebook), Emily Blunt (Oppenheimer, The Devil Wears Prada), and Aaron Tayloy-Johnson (Bullet Train, Anna Karenina), it’s definitely a must-watch film that will make put you at the edge of your seats while making you laugh your heart out at the same time.

Show Dates: Opens May 1, 2024

Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle (Animé) (SM Exclusive)

As Nekoma High and Karasuno High advance to the third round of the Tokyo Nationals, anticipation builds for their long-awaited showdown in the Dumpster Battle. Kageyama from Karasuno initiates the match with a powerful serve, deftly received by Nekoma's Kai. This exchange marks the start of an intense battle where every point becomes crucial, setting the stage for an unfolding showdown where every play holds significant weight.

Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle premiered in Japan in February this year, with fans heavily praising the movie for its on-point animation and zooming in on the characters to give viewers a look of the relationships between the teams and its members.

Meet the Cast: Kaito Ishikawa returns as the voice of Tobio Kageyama, so do Ayumu Murase as Shoyo Hinata, Yuki Kaji as Kenma Kozume, and Yuichi Nakamuro as Tesuro Kuroo to name a few.

Show Dates: Opens on May 15, 2024

IF (Comedy, Drama)

As young Bea grapples with the aftermath of a troubling experience in her life, she suddenly acquires the ability to see imaginary friends—IFs, for short. And as she also comes to terms with this special gift, she learns that she is not alone. Many kids can also see IFs, but some of them have already abandoned their special friends. She also learns that her neighbor, Cal, shares this uniqueability. Bea and Cal team up to reunite these abandoned IFs with their original companions, embarking on a heartfelt journey to bring joy and companionship back into the lives of these forgotten imaginary friends.

Meet the Cast: Cailey Fleming (Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Loki) is the voice of Bea, while Ryan Reynolds (Deadpool, The Adam Project) is the voice of Cal. The cast also includes John Krasinski (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, DC League of Super-Pets) as Bea’s Dad, Emily Blunt (A Quiet Place, Mary Poppins Returns) as Unicorn, and Matt Damon (Oppenheimer, Jason Bourne) as Sunny.

Show Dates: Opens May 15, 2024

Pee Nak 4 (Horror, Comedy) (SM Exclusive)

Three friends continue on their path to monkhood in this fourth installment of the Pee Nak series. This time, they find themselves at the Ghost Mask Festival, which is—surprise!—cursed. Do Min Joon becomes targeted by a new, terrifying Pee Nak spirit, and Balloon and First must confront this haunting challenge alongside him. What ensues is their encounter with the supernatural and comedic challenges but in the end, will they achieve what they initially sought for?

Like the first three movies, Pee Nak 4 incorporates elements of Thai folklore and humor, often combining scary moments with comedic elements, making it a must-watch for everyone needing a good scare and a good laugh in one riot of a movie.

Meet the Cast: Aim Witthawat Rattanaboonbaramee reprises his role as Balloon and has been in all 4 Pee Nak series to date. Likewise, James Bhuripat Vejvongsatechawat also returns a fourth time to play the role of First. The movie is directed by Mike Phontharis Chotkijsadarsopon, who is also behind the genius that is Hoon Payoon—another hit Thai horror comedy film released in 2023.

Show Dates: Opens on May 22, 2024

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

Amid a world in chaos, young Furiosa is abducted from her home in the Green Place of Many Mothers and finds herself in the clutches of the formidable Biker Horde led by Warlord Dementus. As they traverse the unforgiving Wasteland, they encounter the imposing Citadel ruled by The Immortan Joe. Amidst the power struggle between these two tyrants, Furiosa faces numerous challenges as she strives to gather the resources needed to return to her beloved Green Place.

Meet the Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy (The Menu, The Queen’s Gambit) stars as Imperator Furiosa. Chris Hemsworth (Thor, Men in Black: International) plays Warlord Dementus, while Tom Burke (The Musketeers, Strike) is Praetorian Jack.

Show Dates: Opens May 22, 2024

How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies (Drama) (SM Exclusive)

When M learns that his grandmother, Meng Ju, has only a few months to live, he did the noble act of quitting his job to look after her. He goes to great lengths to take care of his ailing grandmother, doing everything he can to make sure that she spends the remaining days of her life happily and comfortably. But is M really doing it out of filial piety—or because he stands to inherit millions when his grandmother passes away?

How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies has become the top-grossing film in Thailand's 2024 box office, drawing families of all ages together. The movie's release timing coincided with the Songkran holiday, thus even more promoting widespread viewership among diverse audiences.

Meet the Cast: Thai actor and singer Billkin Putthipong Assratanakul plays the role of M in the movie. He is known for his role in the hit boys love drama, I Told Sunset About You and its sequel, I Promised You the Moon. Usha Seamkhum plays the role of Amah, M’s 79-year old grandmother who is diagnosed with late stage colon cancer. The film also features Tu Tontawan Tantivejakul (known for being the female lead in F4 Thailand: Boys Over Flowers) plays M’s cousin, Mui.

Show Dates: Opens on May 29, 2024

The Garfield Movie (Animation, Comedy)

In this movie we learn that Garfield was abandoned when he was still a kitten, and is lovingly adopted by Jon together with a puppy named Odie. Fast forward to the future during one eventful night, Garfield and Odie are kidnapped by dogs working for Jinx, a show cat seeking revenge against Vic, Garfield's absentee father. He and Odie were asked to produce 1,672 bottles of milk within 72 hours, making them go through obstacles like an electric fence and cheese shredder. Through teamwork and newfound courage, Garfield steps out of his comfort zone to confront Jinx and secure the milk, learning valuable lessons along the way.

Meet the Cast: Chris Pratt, the voice behind the adorable Garfield, has been in all three Guardians of the Galaxy movies to date, and Jurassic World Dominion in 2022. Samuel L. Jackson (Star Wars, The Incredibles) lends his voice to Vic, Garfield’s father.

Show Dates: Opens May 29, 2024

Explore the diverse range of films coming to SM Cinemas this month, spanning from spine-chilling horror to adrenaline-pumping action, and heartwarming romantic comedies. Discover the lineup of captivating movies catering to every taste—there's truly something for everyone!

Stay connected with SM Cinema on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and X to stay in the loop about the newest promos, events, and blockbuster films coming at an SM Supermall near you. (SM Supermalls)

IMAX, SM Cinema expand partnership in Philippines With Multi-Theater Deal

SM Cinema, the Philippines' largest exhibitor, and IMAX are expanding their partnership significantly with 10 new IMAX with Laser systems in the market. This deal not only doubles IMAX's presence but also introduces the IMAX experience to three new locations while upgrading seven existing systems across the SM Cinema network.

Expected to roll out in 2024, three upgraded locations will open initially, with the rest scheduled before 2026. Since 2006, IMAX and SM Cinema have operated nine locations together in the Philippines, with the market emerging as a top-performing hub in Southeast Asia for IMAX, consistently ranking among the top 30 highest-grossing IMAX markets globally since 2022.

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K-Culture Next Door: 2024 Korea Festival Brings the Best of Korea to Your Doorstep

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Korean culture as the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) proudly presents the highly anticipated “K-Culture Next Door: 2024 Korea Festival”! This year, the festival returns bigger and better, spanning two exciting locations: SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on May 4-5 and SM Seaside City Cebu, the Mountain Wing Atrium and Skyhall on June 15-16.

As we continue celebrating 75 years of friendship between Korea and the Philippines, the theme "K-Culture Next Door" symbolizes the close connection between our two nations! Just like neighbors who are a ‘doorbell’ away, Korea and the Philippines influenced and supported each other through cultural exchange and interaction between people throughout the years.

'Next Door' Performance

Prepare to be mesmerized as we bring Korea's top indie rock sensation, Jannabi, to the Manila leg's opening ceremony happening on May 4.

In light of 75 years, we also have traditional Filipino performers to grace the stage! The doors are also open for Filipino individual and group performers, as we launched the "Mini K-pop Busking Concert" to showcase Filipino talents while embracing their love for K-culture. Application details for the busking event can be found on our social media channels and website.

'Next Door' Showcase

As we bring out the best of Korea right at your doorsteps, we are proud to present this year's festival with our partners from various Korean government agencies and corporations. For the cultural experience, we have everything from traditional - Hangeul (alphabet), Hanbok (costume), Jeontongnori (traditional games) - to contemporary! Various industries will be present through our partner corporations: Samsung Philippines, Hyundai Motor Philippines, Inc., AMOREPACIFIC Philippines, and some beauty products from small and medium-sized enterprises that will be displayed by Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA).

Together with the Korea Tourism Organization-Manila Office (KTO), Korea Copyright Protection Agency Manila Representative Office (KCOPA), and the Korea Agro Fisheries and Food Trade Corporation Philippines Office (aT), this festival will surely showcase Korea right on your doorstep!

Of course, with the help of our local partners - SM Supermalls and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) - this festival is ready to bring the full K-culture experience for FREE!

About K-Culture Next Door: 2024 Korea Festival

K-Culture Next Door: 2024 Korea Festival - Manila will be held on May 4-5 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall from 10 a.m. -8 p.m. On the other hand, the Cebu counterpart will be held on June 15-16 at the SM Seaside City Cebu, the Mountain Wing Atrium, at the same time, while the opening ceremony will be June 15 at the Skyhall.

Jeju Special Self-Governing Provincial Dance Company will perform on June 15 (Sat) at the Sky Hall, and on June 16 (Sun) at the Mountain Wing Atrium.

For the first-ever K-festival in Cebu, we’re also hosting "Everyone's Kpop Cebu", a K-pop cover dance contest for Filipino talents.

Also introduced in Cebu, the performing team that will bring Jeju Island’s unique culture and traditional traits, a special show will be put out by the Jeju Special Self-Governing Provincial Dance Company.

For more information and updates, make sure to follow us on our social media accounts (Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines / @kccphil). (SM Supermalls)

Chinabank Reaffirms its Customer Focus with New Campaign

Chinabank has launched a brand refresh program and digital campaign to evolve the 103-year old bank’s brand and image, making it more resonant and engaging to a new generation of customers.

The bank replaced the signages of its head office and branches in an ongoing rollout, released on social media its new ad and new jingle “Focused on You”, and placed billboard ads in EDSA-Magallanes and SM MOA Globe featuring its first ever brand ambassador, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee, a third-generation member of Chinabank’s founding family.

The brand refresh builds on Chinabank’s solid foundation as a trusted bank with a keen understanding of its clients’ needs in an evolving landscape. The bank’s new tagline “Focused on You”, which is also the title of its new jingle and digital campaign, reflects its firm commitment to serving its customers and putting their best interests in mind. For the last 103 years, the bank has helped tycoons when they were just newbies, billionaires when they only had a billion to one shot. To this day, the bank gives the same focus and attention to all its customers, not caring whether they are big or small, but only seeing the size of their dreams. The new logo, with its stylized “CBC” monogram, a symbol that embodies stability and simplicity, gives Chinabank a younger, more agile, and dynamic look.

“Chinabank has been growing and transforming through the years, in step with the times and more importantly, in line with the changing needs and perceptions of our customers,” Chinabank Investor & Corporate Relations Group Head Gerald Florentino said. “We believe this brand refresh will develop the Chinabank brand in the right way and enable us to deepen existing relationships and connect with a broader market.”

Established in 1920, Chinabank has been known as a businessman’s bank with a strong affiliation with the Chinese Filipino community. While maintaining its deep ties with this niche market, Chinabank has grown into a strong and stable universal bank—now the country’s fourth largest private domestic bank—offering a full suite of banking products and services for corporate, commercial, and retail customers. As it pursues its growth plans, embarking on a digital transformation, the bank’s board and management also saw the need to revitalize Chinabank’s brand and image.

“How you take the brand forward is vital to any company’s future success. Even if you’re already well established, you have to find fresh approaches to re-engage your loyal customers and build connections with new ones,” Chinabank Marketing Communications Department Head Aileen Vallesteros said. “Our ‘Focused on You’ campaign reinforces the brand’s strengths and makes Chinabank more relatable to the new generation of customers.”

The whole brand refresh process went smoothly, Vallesteros noted, because the bank's Chairman Hans Sy and President & CEO Romy Uyan were on board and hands on, from the choice of the brand ambassador to the messaging and design. With the leaders' buy-in, everyone in the bank embraced the change. (PR)