2011 Metro Manila Film Festival Winners (Official List)

Written below are the winners of the Metro Manila Film Festival 2011 awards night.

The awarding event was presented during the Gabi ng Parangal on December 28 at Resorts World, Pasay City.



MMFF 2011 Winners

MAJOR AWARDS:


2011 MMFF Best Picture – Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story
2nd Best Picture – Enteng ng Ina Mo
3rd Best Picture – Shake Rattle & Roll 13
Best Actor – Dingdong Dantes for Segunda Mano
Best Actress – Maricel Soriano for Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow
Best Director – Darell dela Cruz for Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story (Tikoy Aguiluz was not recognized)
Best Supporting Actor – John Regala for Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story
Best Supporting Actress – Eugene Domingo for My HouseHusband (Ikaw Na!)
Gatpuno Antonio Villegas Cultural Award – Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story
Lifetime Achievement Award - Mr. Eddie Garcia

Best Float - "Ang Panday 2"
Best Production Design - "Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story"
Best in Editing -  "Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story" (Jason Cahapay and Ryan Orduna)
Best Musical Score - "Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story" (Nonong Buencamino)
Best Sound Recording - "Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story" (Mike Idioma)
Best Festival Visual Effects - "Ang Panday 2" (Riot, Inc.)
Best Make-Up - "Enteng ng Ina Mo"
Best Festival Original Theme Song - "Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story" ("La Paloma" by Ely Buendia)
Best Cinematography - "Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story" (Carlo Mendoza)
Gender Sensitivity Award - "My Househusband"
Best Festival Child Performer - Bugoy Cariño ("Shake, Rattle & Roll 13")
Best Story - "Shake, Rattle & Roll 13" ("Rain, Rain Go Away")
Best Screenplay - "Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story" (Roi Iglesias and Rey Ventura)


Special Awards:

Male Kutis Ganda Celebrity Award - Ryan Agoncillo
Female Kutis Ganda Celebrity Award - Ai Ai de las Alas
Celebrity Sexiest Appeal of the Night - ER Ejercito
Celebrity Sexiest Appeal of the Night - Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo
Male Face of the Night - Richard Gomez
Female Face of the Night - Iza Calzado
SMDC Most Glamorous Stars: Iza Calzado and Ryan Agoncillo
Posthumous Award for Excellence – Director/Choreographer Lito Calzado

New Wave - Independent Film Section:

Best New Wave Actor - JM de Guzman ("Pintakasi")
Best New Wave Actress   - Iza Calzado ("HIV")
Best New Wave Full-length Film - "Pintakasi"
Best New Wave Student Short Film - "Mate" and "Payaso" (Tie)
New Wave Section Special Jury Prize - "Biyahe Ni Barbie"
Gender Sensitivity Award (Student Category) - "Speechless"
Gender Sensitivity Award (Full-length Category) - "HIV"


The telecast of the 2011 MMFF Awards Night reportedly will be aired on ABS-CBN this Sunday, January 1, 2012, at 10:45 p.m.

So, what can you say about the recently concluded Gabi ng Parangal? Share your thoughts about it by dropping some comments below!

I'd want to hear from you.

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Enteng ng Ina Mo Tops MMFF Box Office Results

The Enteng Kabisote and Tanging Ina collaboration is surely a great hit as it further widens its lead on box office on the second day of screening of MMFF.

The Amazing Tandem

Their tandem resulted to Php 38 MILLION GROSS on its first day, breaking ALL TIME FIRST DAY GROSS this year. Segunda Mano is the most talk topic on Twitter and trended since yesterday but ranked 3rd with Php 18 million. Panday 2 by Bong Revilla finished second with PHp 20 million.

FIRST DAY GROSS

1. Enteng Ng Ina Mo – 38.5 million
2. Ang Panday 2 – 20 million
3. Segunda Mano – 18.25 million
4. My Househusband – 17.33 million
5. Shake Rattle & Roll 13 – 15.9 million
6. Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow – 10.1 million
7. Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story – 3 million

Asiong Salonga, despite being given a Grade A by the Cinema Evaluation Board ranked 7th (last) with only Php 3 million gross. But the rankings will change in the coming days, most especially after the winners Metro Manila Film Festival Awards Night will be revealed on December 28, 2011.


SECOND DAY GROSS

1.) Enteng ng Ina Mo- 30.46M (Total= 69M)
2.) Panday 2- 17.9M ( Total= 38M)
3.) Segunda Mano- 17M (Total= 35M)
4.) My Househusband- 12.7M (Total= 30M)
5.) Shake Rattle and Roll 13- 7M (Total= 22.9M)
6.) Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow- 8.7M (Total= 18M)
7) Asiong Salonga 2M (Total 5M)

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Top Movies of MMFF as of Dec 25

Cinemas nationwide were greeted yesterday with excited people who were eager to watch their favorite Metro Manila Film Festival movies.

Here's the standing of the seven movies of MMFF:


1. Enteng ng Ina Mo -  Php 38.5 million
2. Panday 2 - Php 20 million
3. Segunda Mano - Php 18.25 million
4. My Househusband - Php 17.33 million
5. Shake Rattle and Roll 13 - Php 15.9 million
6. Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow - Php 10.1 million
7. Asiong Salonga - Php 3 million

Awards Night of the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival will be held at Resorts World, Pasay City, Philippines on December 28, 2011.

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Official Entries of the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival

Christmas marks the celebration of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. It is also a day when the official entries of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) start its screening in major cinemas nationwide.

The first day was jampacked with avid fans of different actors and actresses.


The 2011 MMFF Movies (in alphabetical order) are:

Enteng ng Ina Mo
Cast: Vic Sotto and Ai-Ai delas Alas
Director: Tony Y. Reyes
Producer: Star Cinema / M-Zet Films / APT Entertainment

Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story
Cast: George ER Estregan, Philip Salvador, Baron Geisler, Sam Pinto, Bangs Garcia, and Carla Abellana
Director: Tikoy Aguiluz

My Househusband (Ikaw Na!)
Cast: Ryan Agoncillo and Judy Ann Santos
Director: Jose Javier Reyes
Producer: OctoArts Films

Panday 2
Cast: Bong Revilla, Phillip Salvador, Iza Calzado and Marian Rivera
Director: Mac Alejandre
Producer: GMA Films / Imus Productions

Segunda Mano
Cast: Kris Aquino, Dingdong Dantes and Angelica Panganiban
Producer: MJM Productions

Shake Rattle & Roll 13 (Lunod, Tamawo, Parola)
Cast: Eugene Domingo, Paulo Avelino, Albie Casino, Maricar Reyes, Kathryn Bernardo
Directors: Chris Martinez (Lunod), Richard Somes (Tamawo), Jerrold Tarog (Parola)
Producer: Regal Films

Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow
Cast: Dennis Trillo, Heart Evangelista, Carla Abellana, and Ritz Azul
Producer: Studio 5

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Meanwhile, the following movie failed to make it as an official entry:

Love Will Lead You Back
Starring: Judy Ann Santos, Coco Martin, Gina Pareño and Maja Salvador
Producer: CineMedia

The 37th Metro Manila Film Festival will run from December 25, 2011 to January 7, 2012.

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The annual awards night will be held at the Resorts World, Pasay City on December 28, 2011.


Now, who's your bet? Comment below!

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Bea Alonzo signs two-and-a-half year exclusive contract with ABS-CBN

I’m still a Kapamilya!” was what Bea initially told the media after signing a two-and-a-half-year exclusive contract with ABS-CBN yesterday. “I feel happy dahilafter all these years mahal ako ng ABS-CBN, pinag-stay nila ako. And I know that I have a lot to offer pa sogusto ko i-share pa ‘yun,” shared Bea.


Bea also revealed the projects lined up for her. “Ang una kong soap will be with John Lloyd (Cruz). Reunion project siya and mag-start kami by February.Tapos magpu-push through pa rin yung movie ko with Inang Olive Lamasan kaya lang na-injure si Derek (Ramsay), supposedly magsa-start kami ng mid-January pero because of the injury…sana makapag-start kami. I’ll pray na gumaling na agad si Derek.”

The actress has spent her teenager years working in ABS-CBN and now that she considers herself a woman already, she said that she is the kind who conscientiously contemplates on decisions she makes. “Hinintay ko itong contract, pinag-aralan ko pa bilang24 na ako, siguro mas marami na akong natututunan tungkol sa mga bagay na ganito. Mas nagbibigay lang ako ng time to decide on every aspect of my life.”

She admitted that another TV network tried to offer jobs to her, like what rumors say. “Yes, may mga ganun. We worked this out, I am really happy I am here.”

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Miss Earth USA Candidate's Derogatory Comment About Philippines

Nicole Lynn: I hardly made it to Manila and we already attended a ridiculous tv show. So annoying!!! These people want to touch you and be with you all the time!! I can't understand a word they say. I can't wait to go back home. This country is so dirty and noisy. I'm scared to eat!!! What a mess. On a lighter note I don't see any real competition. Will keep you updated my loves.


She may have deleted this particular post but I guess it's her right.

She's still lucky that she was never sent home after publishing this post. More so, she even toured Philippines!

May God bless you, Nicole Lynn!

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Globe iPhone 4S Update: The Countdown Begins

We know you're excited for the new iPhone 4S, and you want the experience to be as hassle-free and smooth as possible from start to finish.  With more than three years of experience with the iPhone, Globe Telecom is THE proven provider for anything and everything about this must-have gadget.


Registration for the Globe iPhone 4S has started last week, and we'd appreciate it if you would share the Registration of Interest link to your dear readers.

http://iphone4s.globe.com.ph/

The launch of the Globe iPhone 4S is on December 16, 2011.  Between now and December 16, visit the official #GlobeiPhone4S site to register your interest, and be one of the first to get the iPhone 4S only from Globe Telecom.

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KC Concepcion and Piolo Pascual Finally Broke Up

During the interview of KC yesterday at The Buzz, she can't hide her tears whilst answering the questions asked by her co-host, Boy Abunda.

KC admits that she broke up with Piolo Pascual. It was her first serious relationship and was deeply hurt when their relationship can no longer be saved. She broke her silence in an interview concerning on their relationship status.

But when asked the reason why they broke-up, she only gave statements that would give us a hint over the real score. You just need to read between the lines.

“May mga hinahanap ako na napaka-basic lang na hanapin sa isang boyfriend, sa isang lalaki. Ayoko na sigurong pumunta sa details Tito Boy kasi parang ayokong siraan siya.” 

“Hindi ako ‘yung kailangan niya sa buhay niya,or hindi ako yung hinahanap niya sa buhay niya and hindi ko mabigay sa kanya ang kailangan niya, sa buhay niya.”

Lastly, the pain turned into hate for Piolo: KC strongly said and that she does not like the way Piolo answers the questions about their relationship status during some recent interviews. It can be recalled that for so many times, Piolo would answer in sarcasm and through jokes and it caused so much hurt for KC.

All these time, KC never said anything to her mom and to her lola, who loves Piolo so much. Instead, she has turned to God for strength that she could endure the pain that she feels right now. The only prayer she pursues in her heart at present is to find that true love she has been longing for.

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The Php 1 Billion Contract Deal of Sharon Cuneta

My reliable sources tell me that the Mega Star Sharon Cuneta is really transferring to TV5 with a whopping P1 billion contract deal!

WOW. P1 billion! That's triple the price of a mega lotto draw!


Sharon Cuneta is scheduled to start working at the Kapatid Network on January 2012.

Base on the contract, a talk show is on the line but it is not yet clear how long will her contract last, but one thing is sure, she gets a billion pesos from TV 5. This will be the biggest contract ever for a local television!

Signs are already seen that she will be transferring, she is no longer included in the latest Christmas TV ID plug of ABS-CBN, her talk show Sharon at Home, was already on its final taping and she already bid goodbye to her viewers which is aired in Lifestyle Channel, an ABS-CBN sister channel.

All these happened with her manager Viva Group of  Companies head Vic del Rosario who negotiated the deal with TV5!

Wow Sharon, YOU ALREADY!

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Benmore Scotch Whiskey and Borgy Manotoc

I am an occasional drinker. I drink because I socialize to other people but it is only limited to light beers, cocktails and other drinks with less than 20% alcohol content. Beyond that, my tummy starts to hurt. But that was a long time ago. *wink*

Last night, I had the chance to attend the launch of Benmore Scotch Whiskey. Here's a piece of information about the product:

BenMore is made by DIAGEO, a leader in the liquor industry who also owns popular brands such as Johnie Walker, J & B and Smirnoff Vodka. 

BenMore Four Casks Scotch Whisky is the newest whisky that is produced and distilled in Scotland. It is a deluxe Scotch Whisky which puts attention to details. It is matured in four different types of oak casks to achieve depth and complexity to match the standards of whisky drinkers, to give the harmony between mellow tastes and scotch aroma, including malt and peat aroma with the hint of smokiness and most importantly, to give you an even smoother Scotch whisky experience. 

A 750ml bottle of BenMore Scotch Whisky contains 22 shots that you can enjoy in different ways depending on your preference: 

*Straight up
*On the rocks
*With water
*With iced tea
*with tonic/ soda
*with cola

More details coming out at www.benmorescotchwhisky.com.
(Info from the BenMore press kit.)

We also had the chance to meet Borgy Manotoc, Benmore's product ambassador. Man, he's so tall! I feel so small *lol rhyming*. But yeah, I thought he's snob. But no, I was wrong. He's very talkative and a very nice person too! Easy to hang out with!

And yeah, so here's our picture before partying at Starr. 

We all looked classy!

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The Trilogy Ends Here (or not): Pacquiao Wins, Marquez Sobs

(Las Vegas, Nevada) The MGM Grand Garden Arena was filled with cheers and shouts from the estimated crowd of sixteen thousand as Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao gave a strong and final blow to Juan Manuel "El Dinamita" Marquez. The fight lasted for 12 rounds.

Photo credit: 15 Rounds

It was a split decision win for Pacman, making him successful for defending the WBO World Welterweight Title.

"I really can't believe that I won this fight. This fight is not just for me, but for my country as well. I am thankful that the fight with Juan Manuel Marquez was successful," quipped Pacquiao who still managed to smile despite the bruises and minor injuries on his face brought about by the powerful punches of Marquez.

Inspite of losing today's match, Marquez is still happy with the result.

"I am very happy for Pacquiao. He really deserved it. His punches were so strong, most especially his left hand," Marquez said.

The two fighters remain good friends.

"We still continue to keep in touch. Marquez is a wonderful person. He is so friendly and nice," cheered Pacquiao.

Manny Pacquiao is scheduled to have a one week rest period at Los Angeles, California before heading back to the Philippines.

"I want to fight again this May with Marquez," Pacquiao added.

It seemed that fans wanted to have a Pacquiao vs. Mayweather fight, but it seems that it's still impossible as of this moment.

Meanwhile, President Noynoy Aquino extends his congratulations to Pacquiao and is planning to have a hero's welcome as soon as he returns home from the United States. Mayor Darlene Antonino-Custodio of General Santos City is also planning for a hero's welcome as well.

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Top Ten Movies That Made Me Cry Buckets

We all love to watch movies, and yes and that is a fact that we can't deny. While watching movies, some of us might be critical to some technical aspects whilst others just sit back and enjoy it. 

Along the way, we get carried away by our emotions. We laugh when actors spill hilarious punchlines. We get mad if the actors did something awful. And most of all, we cry because we share our sympathies with the characters of the movie.

Prepare numerous rolls of tissues as we reveal the top ten movies that made me cry buckets.

10. Flipped (2010)

Written and directed by Rob Reiner
Starring Calan McAuliffe and Madeline Carroll

Flipped lands on our tenth spot. Based from Wendelin Van Draanen's novel, Flipped tackles the story about the two eighth graders who started to have feelings for each other despite being total opposites. A lot of people can relate to this movie since every one of us has a story to share about first love. You fall in love. You get carried away by your emotions. You get hurt. And you become stronger, more mature and wiser.


9. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)

Directed by Isao Takahata
Starring Tsutomu Tatsumi, Ayano Shiraishi and Akemi Yamaguchi

Grave of the Fireflies (Hotaru no haka) lands on the ninth spot. It is a tragic animated movie about the struggles of a young boy and his sister during World War II. All throughout the movie, watching these helpless kids was painful and you couldn't help but to feel sad about their situation. But inspite of their tribulations, they still find ways to be happy.


8. Windstruck (2004)

Directed by Jae-young Kwak
Starring Gianna Jun and Hyuk Jang

The tragic love story of Myung Woo and Kyung-jin lands on the eighth spot. The story line itself was truly heartbreaking, accompanied by the beautifully arranged original sound track. Windstruck had left a good impression not just to its Korean viewers but also to some of its viewers from different Asian countries.

"When I'm gone and I would like to turn into the wind." - Myung Woo.

Boo-huhuhu.


7. The Land Before Time (1988)

Directed by Don Bluth
Starring Pat Hingle, Gabriel Damon and Judith Barsi

Our seventh spot features the story of a dinosaur who struggled in crossing the prehistoric arid lands in order to reach the Great Valley whilst outwitting the ferocious T-Rex dinosaur. The adventures of Little Foot seemed childish but if you watch it more closely, there's a deeper meaning on it. We all wanted to be cared and guided by our mothers even if we're old. There this particular scene in the movie when Little Foot saw the shadow of her mother, only to find out that it was just an optical illusion. Ouch.



6. Magnifico (2003)

Directed by Maryo J. delos Reyes
Starring Jiro Manio, Lorna Tolentino, Albert Martinez and Gloria Romero

Maginifico is truly a magnificent story. Who wouldn't expect that this kid has a mature way of thinking about life. At a young age, Magnifico had already experienced so many trials in life. Maginifico truly won the hearts of its viewers, well, including me.


5. One More Chance (2007)

Directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina
Starring John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo

When choosing a particular decision, do you just think of yourself? Well if you do that, you better watch this movie and maybe think twice before deciding on a certain thing before you break someone's heart. One More Chance is far the most famous movie of John Lloyd-Bea tandem. Everyone loves Popoy and Basha's love story.


4. Anak (2000)

Directed by Rory B. Quintos
Starring Vilma Santos and Claudine Barretto

Anak is a movie dedicated to all Filipino OFWs who sacrificed a lot just to give their children a brighter future. But no matter how big the opportunity is, the motherly and/or fatherly love that we always long would still be the most important thing no matter what. This is a heartwarming movie and you will learn a LOT from it.


3. Marley & Me (2008)

Directed by David Frankel
Starring Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston

Marley may be the worst dog ever but the family who adapted him had learned so many things about raising their family, the importance of their career and a whole lot more. It made me realized that no matter how naughty these creatures are, they would still choose to be with us. I cried so hard on the last part of this movie. Oops, spoiler.


2. Like Stars on Earth (2007)

Directed by Aamir Khan
Starring Aamir Khan and Darsheel Safary

Like Stars on Earth is not your ordinary Hindi movie. Directed by Ahmir Khan, the movie focuses on children who are special - those who need special attention and those who are often misunderstood. It seemed that every scene was truly heart breaking, from Ishaan (Safary) being misunderstood by his parents for being dumb (later in the movie, they learned that he has dyslexia) to his triumphant moment of his life.

This is a must-see movie if you want to learn more about learning disabilities.


1. Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009)

Directed by Lasse Hallstrom
Starring Richard Gere and Joan Allen

Hachiko, our canine hero lands on the first spot. Hachi: A Dog's Tale tells a story about a loyal dog who keeps on coming back at the train station even if his master had already died. Loyalty played a big part on this movie as Hachi still hoped that his master would still come home and play with him. It was so heartbreaking that I was still crying minutes after the movie ended.

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There you have it! This is the official top ten list on movies that made me cry.

I'm pretty sure that you have your own personal list. Don't forget to post a comment about it! :)

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Scientists discover most relaxing tune ever

Sound therapists and Manchester band Marconi Union compiled the song. Scientists played it to 40 women and found it to be more effective at helping them relax than songs by Enya, Mozart and Coldplay.

Weightless works by using specific rhythms, tones, frequencies and intervals to relax the listener. A continuous rhythm of 60 BPM causes the brainwaves and heart rate to synchronise with the rhythm: a process known as ‘entrainment’. Low underlying bass tones relax the listener and a low whooshing sound with a trance-like quality takes the listener into an even deeper state of calm.

Dr David Lewis, one of the UK’s leading stress specialists said: “‘Weightless’ induced the greatest relaxation – higher than any of the other music tested. Brain imaging studies have shown that music works at a very deep level within the brain, stimulating not only those regions responsible for processing sound but also ones associated with emotions.”

The study - commissioned by bubble bath and shower gel firm Radox Spa - found the song was even more relaxing than a massage, walk or cup of tea. So relaxing is the tune, apparently, that people are being Rex advised against listening to it while driving.

The top 10 most relaxing tunes were: 

1. Marconi Union - Weightless
2. Airstream - Electra
3. DJ Shah - Mellomaniac (Chill Out Mix)
4. Enya - Watermark
5. Coldplay - Strawberry Swing
6. Barcelona - Please Don’t Go
7. All Saints - Pure Shores
8. Adele - Someone Like You
9. Mozart - Canzonetta Sull’aria
10. Cafe Del Mar - We Can Fly

(via shortlist)

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Gwendolyn Ruais Placed Second on Miss World 2011

Miss Philippines, Gwendolyn Ruais, placed second in the recently concluded Miss World 2011 held at London, United Kingdom. Gwendolyn Ruais attains the best Miss World finish for the Philippines since Evangeline Pascual who also won first runner-up in Miss World 1973. Miss Venezuela, Ivian Sarcos, bagged the crown this year.

"Ruais will definitely make it to the finals", predicted the fans and critics of the show prior the coronation night. That was proven right when Gwendolyn made it to the finals of three Fast Track competitions this year – Beauty with a Purpose, Top Model and Beach Beauty. Although she failed to win any of these preliminary competitions, her overall score in Miss World 2011 was one of the highest as a result of her strong finishes. When the final scores were revealed at the announcement of the TOP 15 semi-finalists, Gwendolyn Ruais was #3!

It was a proud moment for the Philippines especially since all of our candidates in the other international beauty pageants finished well. Shamcey Supsup was fourth in Miss Universe 2011, and earlier tonight, Dianne Necio was a semifinalist in Miss International 2011.

In other news, Cory Quirino is the new franchise holder of the Miss World in the Philippines.

For those who missed the live stream coverage tonight, Miss World 2011 will be shown on GMA 7 this morning at 10 AM.


Miss World 2011 Final Results:

• Miss World 2011 – Venezuela
• 2nd Place – Philippines
• 3rd Place – Puerto Rico

MISS WORLD 2011 TOP 7

• Miss Korea
• Miss Venezuela
• Miss England
• Miss Philippines
• Miss Puerto Rico
• Miss South Africa
• Miss Scotland

Miss World 2011 Top 20 Semi-finalists:

• Miss England
• Miss Scotland
• Miss South Africa
• Miss Spain
• Miss Puerto Rico
• Miss US Virgin Islands
• Miss Philippines
• Miss Ukraine
• Miss Venezuela
• Miss Kazakhstan
• Miss Sweden
• Miss Zimbabwe
• Miss Italy
• Miss Korea
• Miss Indonesia

Fast Track competition winners:

• Miss Dominican Republic has won Miss World Sports competition.
• Miss England Wins Miss World Beach Beauty Fast Track competition.
• Miss Kazakhstan wins Miss World Top Model 2011 competition.
• Miss Chile wins Miss World Talent competition
• Miss Ghana & Miss Indonesia win Miss Beauty With a Purpose 2011

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Coldplay Through The Years

Five albums of Coldplay

Coldplay has indeed evolved when it comes to their musical style. During the Parachutes era, their songs weren’t really THAT outstanding in terms of melody but their lyrics were beautifully written. Yellow is an all-time favorite of mine from that album. Then came A Rush of Blood to the Head in 2003. Sure enough, Clocks and The Scientist were an instant hit causing the band to rise higher to fame.



Coldplay’s style, which includes repetitions of one word or syllable accompanied by the melodic oooooh’s and ahhhh’s and the repetitive chord progression is always present in every albums. Try listening to Viva La Vida, Clocks, Speed of Sound and Rainy Day.

Okay, back to Mylo Xyloto. Despite the lack of creativity in their lyrics (Life goes on, it gets so heavy, every tear a waterfall… in the night, the stormy night… c’mon, seriously?), Coldplay always takes risks and experiments on  new themes and styles. That makes them unique. Their five albums are unique to each other; each tells a different story. And oh, featuring Rihanna was NOT really a bad idea, after all. Rihanna and the English band certainly pulled it off.

Forget about the lyrics of their Mylo Xyloto songs. All you have to do is to listen to the melody of their songs. Nonetheless, millions would still love it because it's Coldplay. They're Coldplay.

Here are my top three favorite Mylo Xyloto tracks:

1. Every Teardrop is a Waterfall
2. Paradise
3. Charlie Brown

What's your favorite Coldplay song/s? Comment below!

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Rumored Coldplay's Asian Tour 2012

After the success of their newly released album, Mylo Xyloto, Coldplay is scheduled to perform their Asian Tour in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia early next year.

Photo courtesy: http://www.htbackdrops.com

A two-month long tour will continue in Bangkok (Thailand), Manila (Philippines) and Tokyo (Japan). Yellow, Fix You, Clocks, Viva La Vida and Paradise are just one of the few hits from this English alternative-rock band.

Now, this is good news for Coldplay's Asian fans!

Click here to read a review about their latest album, Mylo Xyloto.

Like this post? Follow me on Twitter @renzybenzy for more updates or visit my travel blog!

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Cats Gone Wild

Puss in Boots

Directed by Chris Miller

Starring Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek and Zach Galifianakis

I never liked Puss in Boots, well judging from the fairy tale that mom used to read every night before going to sleep. 

I never understood why a cat outwitted a king or some sort. The cat should be the antagonist of the story and not the other way around.

Or so I thought. Pardon me if I have poor judgment and analytic skills when I was little.

But anyway, soon after watching the first movie of Shrek, I started to admire this feline hero. Puss is actually not your ordinary hero. Armed with swift moves and big, beautiful eyes, Puss would surely win every adventure that he had (and also win every female cat's heart). Nonetheless, after watching his very first solo movie, I have realized that our feline friend deserved to be revered as a hero.

What makes Puss' first solo movie special is its story itself. Like any other heroes, human or animal, Puss had a very sad but interesting story to tell. But that's not it. Apart from the stunning scenery like the "wild wild west", the urban slums and the cloud castle, the funny mash-up of all nursery rhyme characters were there too. One wouldn't expect that the innocent Jack and Jill who just tumbled down the hill after fetching a pail water would be the most sinister-looking thieves in the movie! And who would've thought that the magic beans would be the center of the story! But the bulk of the followers of Jack's adventure takes the bean stalk and hunt for golden eggs. Yes, the golden eggs.

I laughed at almost every scenes of the movie, and yes, both children and adults can relate to it!

Overall, this movie is perfect for people who seek nothing but pure fun and excitement.

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The Curious Case of Praybeyt Benjamin

Photo credit from Viceganda.net

There's this particular scene in the movie where Benjamin, played by the unkabogable Vice Ganda, was shunned by his own grandfather due to his sexual orientation. Although the weird thing was, every generation of his paternal roots has a hero.

Vice Ganda's second movie was really a big hit, at least it did compensate from the loss incurred from his first movie, Petrang Kabayo.


The plot of the movie was somewhat similar to Walt Disney's Mulan. Both Mulan and Benjamin were a disgrace to their respective families, thus prompting them to leave their home and head to the military camp to prove something about themselves - that they can do something extraordinary regardless of their gender. More so, both movies presented an equally hot platoon leader. Derek Ramsay surely made the people screaming inside the movie house; one can also surmise that Vice Ganda's screaming inside during the shoot of his second film.

But what made Vice Ganda's second movie so successful? Well, it was not because of his jokes but it was how he delivered it. Whether if it is a havey or waley joke, Praybeyt Benjamin is just a movie where everyone can just laugh and enjoy. There is no need to analyze the plot and its story line like any other movies. You just need to enjoy it. Yes, there's a need to reiterate that statement. The story itself was really predictable, yes, but the madlang people loved Vice Ganda and showed their undying support to his second movie.

And as for Vice? It doesn't really matter whether his second movie received low scores from movie critics. The important thing is, it's not a flop. It's a big hit!

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A Breath of Fresh Air: Mylo Xyloto

Coldplay had just released their latest studio album, Mylo Xyloto, and it is the freshest album released this year.

Upon its release, Mylo Xyloto received mixed reviews from critics.




On December 2008, during the height of their previous album, Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends, Chris Martin announced that their band will never split. Bassist Guy Berryman added that the band would return to the studio and work for their fifth studio album.

We've already got lists of song ideas. We never stop writing. We go into the studio with all the best laid plans then what we end up with is not what we intended. It's just exciting to wonder what will come out the speakers in a year's time. We have very exciting things lined up. It's time to take our music down different directions and really explore other avenues."

Album Style

Their latest album, Mylo Xyloto is a concept album. Martin said in an interview that the album is based on love story with a happy ending,  in which two protagonists: Mylo and Xyloto, who are living in an oppressive, dystopian urban environment, meet one another through a gang called "The Lost Boys", and fall in love. Lyrically, the album is inspired by "old school American graffiti" and "the White Rose Movement. Before the album was released, Coldplay announced that their latest album would be more intimate and more acoustic compared to their previous album, Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends.

Critics

The album received mixed reviews from music critics. Metacritic announced that the album received an average review score of 59/100, based on 27 reviews. Neil McCormick of The Daily Telegraph wrote that, "it is simply irresistible. I thought the mood is adventurous and the sound is luxuriously colorful and vibrant. Melodies course through everything, constantly shifting and reshaping".


Rolling Stone gave the album a positive review stating, "this time Coldplay have integrated the "Enoxification" (as they call it) into their own down-the-middle core: Check out the cascading choral vocals that augment Martin's soaring refrain on "Paradise." Prominent elements prop up the sonic cathedrals: Jonny Buckland's guitar, which is riffier and more muscular than ever, and Euro-house synths that wouldn't sound out of place at a nightclub in Ibiza."


Allmusic writer, Stephen Thomas Erlewine gave a positive review to the album and awarded it with 3 and half stars out of 5 and wrote: "Mylo Xyloto has a leg up other Coldplay records for this simple reason: they’re no longer attempting to mimic U2’s portentous piety. They’ve embraced their schoolboy selves and are simply singing songs of love and good cheer, albeit on a grand scale that somehow seems smaller due to the group’s insuppressible niceness."

Mylo Xyloto is indeed a breath of fresh air. Coldplay never fails to amaze its loyal fans.

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Inspiring Audition: Emmanuel Kelly

The X Factor Australia audition video clip of Emmanuel Kelly went viral over the internet. A lot of people were moved by his story and his superb talent, including me.

I'm pretty sure that you'll be amazed after watching and listening to his own rendition of Imagine.

Great story, indeed!

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Steve Jobs, Apple Co-Founder, Is Dead

Steve Jobs, the man behind the Apple gadgets such as iPhone, iPod, iMac, iPad and Macbook and named as one of the greatest American CEOs of his generation died on Wednesday at the age of 56, after years of battling cancer and other health issues.

Photo by: winnersdelhinews.com

His untimely demise was announced by his company, Apple in a statement late on Wednesday.

It was noted that last August, he resigned as the CEO of the world's largest technology corporation handing the reins to current chief executive Tim Cook.

Jobs fought a rare form of pancreatic cancer for years has been deemed as the heart and soul of Exxon Mobil's number one rival in terms of value in America.

His untimely death made millions of Apple users worldwide to be on iSad and iCry mode.

Photo by ipadngravy.com

Rest in peace, Steven Paul "Steve" Jobs! Thank you for making our lives easier and efficient, sir!

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Satirically Speaking

Nowadays, people have been dependent to internet - they read news, they entertain themselves and even buy stuff on the internet. That's how internet revolutionized the life of people these days. Thus, it has become their primary source of information.

Rep. Winston Castelo. Photo courtesy of showbiznest.blogspot.com

Remember when Rep. Winston "Winnie" Castelo proposed the Anti-Planking Law? It had spread like wildfire on the internet and has drawn attention not just from the Philippines but also to the world. It was even a trending topic on Twitter! A lot have posted comments about it, mostly negative.

Apparently another news, still related to Rep. Winnie, broke out about the proposal of Anti-Angry Birds Bill. Funny thing was, a LOT of people believed it.

Quoting from So What's News site:

An eyewitness said that Rep. Castelo went shopping at the famous 168 Mall in Divisoria last Saturday and got annoyed when all he saw were Angry Birds themed items. “Naghahanap po sya ng mga regalo para sa mga inaanak nya. Kaso po nung makita nyang panay may nakadikit na Angry Birds ang paninda namin, eh dun na po sya nag walk-out” (He was looking for gifts for his godchildren. But he walked-out when he saw that all our products had Angry Bird stickers on them) said a vendor who met Castelo.

Entertainment sites like the one linked above have been sprouting like mushrooms for the past months and the famous example of it is The Onion News. Posts on these sites are often written in a sarcastic and satirical tone. More so, these sites do not just offer entertainment, but a wake up call as well. Although to unmask the real purpose of the entry, one has to digest the entire post which a lot of bloggers have failed to do such.

Photo from GetReligion.org

And I have to agree with the comment written by an anonymous person on that particular post, saying, "Ang lakas talaga ng loob ng mga tanga na magsabi ng tanga. (Others have the balls to claim that a person is an idiot where in fact he's the real idiot).

I even read several blog posts regarding the alleged proposal of Anti-Angry Birds Bill and I was NOT surprised that they BELIEVED on it. Indeed, satire [humor] doesn't have a place yet here in the Philippines.

The Anti-Angry Birds Bill may sound hilarious but one thing is sure: politics in the Philippines is crazy. Hilarious, but true.

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Cap Ou Pas Cap?

We all have this common notion of what true love is. We always think that true love will always have the happiest endings, an impeccable and lifelong relationship with each other and most of all, a blissful family. But the true definition of love is the otherwise as it comes with lots of sacrifices.

We have Sophie, a 7 year-old girl who is a favorite toy of bullies and Julien, also a 7-year old mischievous but sensitive boy who loves to do nasty things. The two of them both attend the same elementary school. At first, Sophie was a bit shy, but eventually they got comfortable with each other. At a tender of age of 7, they start a game of eagerness, which will last for a life-time.


There are different scenes, both real and surreal that portray different challenges as they grow older. Sophie wasn’t really sure if Julien is seriously in love with her. He didn’t realize that Sophie was having a maturational crisis. The way they communicate through love was really impressive, in fact the viewers might have thought that such manner of communicating might not have exist in real life due to its exaggeration. But then again, they both understand that they’re meant for each other. There are signature scenes and moments in between their reunion times with an excellent transfer of surrealism into storyboard sequences.

Despite the betrayal, they still keep their game deep into their hearts. This became crucial to understand when the social and sociological obstacles happened to put an end to their game. Whereas, they realize the meaning of love is to go after your lover no matter how hard the situation is. They put an end to their life together at the end to be able to stay loyal to their game.

It is fantasy in a sense that it lets you suspend realism for a moment, and dwell on the things we take for granted many times- laughter, romance, and childlike innocence.

About the movie: 

As adults, best friends Julien and Sophie continue the odd game they started as children — a fearless competition to outdo one another with daring and outrageous stunts. While they often act out to relieve one another’s pain, their game might be a way to avoid the fact that they are truly meant for one another. 

Release Date: 10/19/2004 Directed by: Yann SamuellStarring: Guillaume Canet, Marion CotillardWritten by: Yann Samuell

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No Other Woman: Now Showing

The much-awaited movie, "No Other Woman" premieres today starring one of ABS-CBN's caliber actors Derek Ramsay, Cristine Reyes and Anne Curtis produced by Star Cinema and Viva Films.

The original date for the movie's premiere night was called off due to the onslaught of Typhoon Pedring. It was moved the next day.



Directed by Ruel Bayani, the movie revolves around the story of loyalty and loyalty. Kara Zalderiaga, portrayed by Anne Curtis, is a beautiful playgirl socialite who was emotionally detached to love until she met Ram Escaler (Derek Ramsay), a loyal husband to Charmain Escaler (Cristine Reyes).

More so, the trailer of the movie caught my attention because of the notable lines spilled by some of the characters.

"Ang mundo ay isang malaking Quiapo. Maraming Snatcher. Maagawan ka. Lumaban ka!" - Carmi Martin 

"Naku huwag na. Baka makita mo nilalagyan ko ang pagkain mo ng lason." - Christine Reyes 

"Ano ba ang mas mahirap kalaban? Yung putang mahirap o putang mayaman?" - Christine Reyes 

"Pare-parehong puta lang 'yon!" - Carmi Martin 

"Anong gagagwin ninyo if the only man that you love is unfortunately married... I'm not gonna give up Ram without putting up a god damn fight!" - Anne Curtis 

"Panahon na para i pack-up mo yang Lucy Torres mo. Ilabas mo na diyan si Gretchen Baretto. Anak, ako na ang bahala sa Red Stilleto mo!" - Carmi Martin

I am so excited to watch this movie!

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Things You Ought to Know About 'X Factor' Host Steve Jones

The model-turned-television host heads to the U.S. for his biggest TV gig yet.

As the newly appointed host for the US version of Simon Cowell's X-Factor, Jones is not really that famous in the US.

Photo courtesy: Fox

And even if his name didn't ring a bell in America, he is not yet free with gossip and rumors about his reported romances with famous Hollywood stars such as the sex bomb Pamela Anderson and Heroes' Hayden Panettierre.

At 34, he has been working on the TV as a tv host in U.K. including T4 Music, a popular music series, and As Seen on TV, a BBC One celebrity panel quiz show. Also, he is Welsh, not English.

Here are some facts that you need to know about the Welsh host of America's latest reality-talent show:

1. With good looks comes with great responsibility.
He started working as a model. He told Britain's Daily Mail, "I wasn't Zoolander - I had no moves, no 'faces.' "

2. He is frank and is not afraid to speak up what's on his mind.
One time, he said the Vince Vaughn was "a miserable sod," Christian Bale was "a total idiot" and that Gene Simmons was the "most unbelievably vain, egotistical bloke" he's ever come across. Wow he's got swag.

3. He has his own clothing line.
Jones modeled and designed clothes for a line called Goodsouls by Steve Jones. He says of his fashion choices, "When I started out on T4 I would just wear a T-shirt and a pair of jeans because it’s that kind of show, it doesn’t take itself too seriously, but over the years as you progress and get older as a presenter and start doing bigger things and more glamorous shows with the BBC you have to be more diverse."

4. Jones has a few acting credits under his belt.
Jones appeared in Bend it Like Beckham director Gurinder Chadha's 2008 film Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging as well as a short film called The Trevor Ending Story.

5. He likes taking chances with his career.
Having made a name for himself on U.K. television, Jones keeps an eye out for other opportunities. He told the Daily Mail, "'I want to push myself. What's the point of staying in your comfort zone? Get a chance and you have to take it."

And oh, he reminds me of Zachary Quinto.

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'X Factor' Contestant Drops His Pants

Ray Mickshaw / FOX

“Families were led to believe the X Factor would be family-friendly programming and instead were assaulted by graphic nudity," says the group's president of Geo Godley's performance.

The Parents Television Council has filed an indecency complaint after contestant Geo Godley dropped his pants while performing on Wednesday night's premiere of The X Factor. A giant "X" logo covered his crotch, while judge Paula Abdul stormed off the set.
As the PTC points out, the blurred nudity aired shortly after 9 p.m. ET, when indecent content is prohibited on broadcast television.

“X Factor judge L.A.. Reid described the performance of contestant Geo Godley as ‘offensive, disgusting, distasteful and upsetting.’  And based upon contemporary community standards for the broadcast medium, the PTC adds to Reid’s description the title ‘indecent,’” says PTC president Tim Winter in a statement.

“As the broadcast decency law comes before the United States Supreme Court in the coming term, Fox has offered a compelling demonstration as to why that law needs to be upheld.  If Godley performed his act in public, he would have been arrested. But if he performs it in front of a Fox camera, his act is beamed via the public airwaves into every home in the nation," he adds.



“The prolonged, previously videotaped footage of a contestant dancing nude on the X Factor stage represents a conscious decision by the producers – with the approval of the network’s broadcast standards department – to intentionally air this content in front of millions of families during hours when they knew full well that children would be watching.

“Families were led to believe the X Factor would be family-friendly programming and instead were assaulted by graphic nudity. Perhaps the ‘X’ in X Factor stands for the MPAA rating.  No wonder PTC Seal of Approval winner and judge Paula Abdul walked out during the performance, apparently becoming physically ill by what happened.

“The X Factor showed more than a glimmer as to why such competitions are so engaging for the viewing public, with inspiring stories of talented performers gripping the audience.  And while we understand the entertainment hook that comes from the occasional train wreck, something so inherently and patently offensive as this obscene performance is more than a sucker punch; it is a violation of Fox station’s broadcast licenses.  We have filed a complaint with the FCC and are urging our members and other concerned citizens to follow suit.

“Finally, the fact that Fox assigned a content rating of TV-PG DL for a naked man frolicking around on a stage is not just inaccurate, it is fraudulent. We call on the amorphous Content Ratings Review Board to immediately investigate this incident and hold Fox accountable for violating the spirit and the letter of the content ratings system, which can only be described at this point as rigged and blatantly inaccurate,” Winter added.

X Factor is the latest of PTC's targets. The group has also spoken out against MTV's Skins (which was canceled), Toddlers & Tiaras and Glee.

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How To Enable Facebook Timeline

Yesterday, Facebook's CEO Mark Zuckerburg has announced the new feature of Facebook, which includes archives and timeline that enables users to browse their past contents, photos and statuses. It is one of the site's breakthrough that allows its users to reminisce how great they were a few years back (sarcasm intended).

Fortunately, enabling Timeline a bit early isn’t too difficult — but it’s not at all straight forward, either.

As you all know, enabling Facebook's timeline feature at this point is open graph developers. You, too, can be an open graph developer — even if you’re just looking to dabble.


A few things before enabling this feature to your Facebook account:

• Expect a LOT of bugs. It would be a pain in the ass and frustrating, unless if you're actually a developer.
  
• It's only you who can view your timline (unless if you decide otherwise) but will be seen by the public a few days after.
  
• It seems that if you login into Facebook on another machine, Timeline gets disabled automatically on all of your machines. With that said, it seems you can get back to your timeline (but ONLY after following the steps below) by navigating to http://www.facebook.com/YOURUSERNAMEHERE?sk=timeline
  
• You’ll need to have a “verified” account for one of the steps, which means you need a credit card or phone number attached to the account.

Are you ready? Now let's tweak your Facebook!



Here's how to do it:


1. Log into Facebook

2. Enable developer mode, if you haven’t already. To do this, type “developer” into the Facebook search box, click the first result (it should be an app made by Facebook with a few hundred thousand users), and add the app.

3. Jump into the developer app (if Facebook doesn’t put you there automatically, it should be in your left-hand tool bar)

4. Create a new app (don’t worry — you wont actually be submitting this for anyone else to see/use). Give your shiny new app any display name and namespace you see fit. Read through and agree to the Platform Privacy agreement. This is the step you need to be verified for.

5. Ensure you’re in your new app’s main settings screen. You should see your app’s name near the top of the page

6. Look for the “Open Graph” header, and click the “Get Started using open graph” link.

Create a test action for your app, like “read” a “book”, or “eat” a “sandwich”

7. This should drop you into an action type configuration page. Change a few of the default settings (I changed the past tense of “read” to “redd” — again, only you can see this unless you try and submit your application to the public directory), and click through all three pages of settings

8. Wait 2-3 minutes

9. Go back to your Facebook homescreen. An invite to try Timeline should be waiting at the top of the page

And you’re done! We’ve seen this work quite a few times now, so it should work without a hitch for just about anyone.

Special thanks to TechCrunch!

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