HBO Releases Official Trailer And Key Art For The Original Drama Series IT: Welcome To Derry, Debuting October 27

HBO has released the official trailer and key art for the original drama series IT: Welcome to Derry, from Warner Bros. Television, debuting Monday, October 27 on HBO and will be available to stream on HBO Max. New episodes of the eight-episode season will debut weekly leading up to the season finale on Monday, December 15. 

The series is developed for television by filmmakers Andy Muschietti and Barbara Muschietti (IT, IT Chapter Two, The Flash) and Jason Fuchs (IT Chapter Two, Wonder Woman, Argylle).  Andy Muschietti directs multiple episodes of the original series.  

Set in the world of Stephen King’s IT universe, IT: Welcome to Derry is based on King’s “IT” novel and expands the vision established by filmmaker Andy Muschietti in the movies IT and IT Chapter Two.  

Cast includes Jovan Adepo, Taylour Paige, Chris Chalk, James Remar, Stephen Rider, Madeleine Stowe, Rudy Mancuso, and Bill Skarsgård.     

It All Started In May’s Rendition of Hotdog’s “Manila” Is Finally Here

It All Started In May has officially released their much-anticipated cover of the classic Filipino hit “Manila” by Hotdog. The version that took TikTok by storm and made the band an internet sensation is now available on all major music streaming platforms.

Since their TikTok breakthrough, die-hard fans of It All Started In May had been eagerly awaiting the official release of “Manila.” The song has become one of the band’s most requested tracks during live performances and gigs, further cementing its special place in their setlist.

With this release, listeners can now experience the band’s fresh take on a beloved Filipino classic anytime, anywhere. “Manila” by It All Started In May is a tribute that blends nostalgia with the band’s unique sound, making it a must-listen for both longtime fans and new audiences alike. 

Composed of Red, JP, Pau, Jai, and Mikee, It All Started In May is one of the fastest-rising bands right now. They released their debut single “O’ Kay Tamis” in May 2025, has already been featured on 6 official Spotify playlists, and is part of the San Miguel Beer Oktoberfest happening in Okada Manila this September 21. 

J-pop superstar Kenshi Yonezu teams up with global icon Hikaru Utada for “Jane Doe”

New track is the official ending theme of Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc 

Chart-topping J-pop superstar KENSHI YONEZU teams up with global icon HIKARU UTADA for a new collaborative track “JANE DOE,” the ending theme to the hugely anticipated  CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC. “JANE DOE” marks the first collaboration between the two iconic Japanese artists and was written and composed by Yonezu with Utada joining in on vocals. Also making its debut today is the track’s official music video directed by Tomokazu Yamada and featuring both artists. Today’s news follows a massive couple of weeks for Yonezu, who recently released the theme to the CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC “IRIS OUT,” debuted on Spotify's Top Songs Debut Global Chart at #2, and made history as his CHAINSAW MAN TV anime series theme “KICK BACK” became the first-ever Japanese language song to reach RIAA-Platinum certification.  

Emmy® Winners, Halloween Thrills, New Premieres And Much More On HBO MAX This October

Usher in the spooky season with the highly anticipated premiere of the HBO Original series IT: Welcome to Derry, set in the world of Stephen King’s IT universe, and stream the chilling Halloween lineup, including A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010), The Conjuring, Lovecraft Country, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, The Vampire Diaries, and Max Originals Salem's Lot and Caddo Lake, all on HBO Max.

Dive into Emmy® winning originals from The Penguin, The Pitt and Hacks, as well as new premieres of hit Japanese series, such as Love is for the Dogs, La Grande Maison Tokyo Special, VIVANT, IGNITE, Mr. Mikami’s Classroom, and more, available from October 17.

Revisit all seasons of the culture-defining comedy series Friends on HBO Max or ‘PIVOT’ and visit The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in Manila from October 8 at The Space at Solaire.

NU volleyball coach Kenan launches music career with first single “Sabi Mo”

The new recording artist teams up with 6cyclemind’s Rye Sarmiento and Gracenote’s Jazz Jorge for a track reminiscent of ‘90s and early 2000s alternative rock

Filipino newcomer Kenan marks his debut as a recording artist with the release of “Sabi Mo” under Sony Music Entertainment.

Best known today as a professional volleyball trainer and coach at the National University (NU), Kenan’s deep love for music eventually opened the door to a career he once thought was out of reach.

His first official single, “Sabi Mo,” captures the struggles of moving on after promises of forever are broken. Drawing from his own past experiences with heartbreak, Kenan poured his emotion into the track. He reveals. “I was lost in the moment because it brought back memories, both good and bad. That experience gave me the courage to deliver the song with honesty and vulnerability, while still making it my own.”

From Verona to New Zealand, These Lionsgate Play Titles Will Take You Around the World

From romantic escapades to high-stakes thrillers, these films let you see the world, one story at a time.

Not everyone can book a flight and hop across continents. But who says you need a boarding pass to experience the world? This World Tourism Day, Lionsgate Play — along with its partners PLDT Home, Smart, and Cignal Super — invites you to travel through the magic of cinema. From romantic cities and idyllic islands to mysterious villages and high-octane capitals, these films let you explore unforgettable destinations without ever leaving your couch.

Here are six movies that will take you places:

Letters to Juliet

While visiting Verona with her busy fiancé, Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) stumbles upon the famous wall where the heartbroken leave notes to Shakespeare’s Juliet Capulet. Among them, she discovers a letter written in 1957 and decides to reply. Her answer sparks an unexpected journey for Claire (Vanessa Redgrave), the now-elderly author, who sets out to find her long-lost love with Sophie and her skeptical grandson (Christopher Egan) by her side. Set against sun-drenched vineyards and the romantic streets of Italy, Letters to Juliet is a heartfelt story of second chances and serendipity.

The Itchyworms bring their “Akin Ka Na Lang” tour in Nagoya for the first time

Award-winning Filipino pop-rock band The Itchyworms returns to Japan for their “Akin Ka Na Lang” tour, with a special show scheduled at Live House Circus in Nagoya on October 5, 2025. 

The show marks their debut performance in Nagoya, the fourth most populous city in Japan. The Itchyworms, long admired for their anthemic hits and infectious performances, have previous taken the stage in Tokyo and Saitama in early 2025, and a standout stint at Tokyo Beyond Festival in 2022 and Kansai Music Festival in 2023.

“This will be our first time to travel to Nagoya (as tourists, and as performers),” says Jugs Jugueta, the lead vocalist and guitarist of The Itchyworms. “We heard that there is a huge Filipino community in Nagoya. We are so excited to play for them and to meet them all! We love Japan so much.”

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run heads to prestigious film festivals in Hawaii and Croatia

Diane Ventura’s acclaimed Filipino documentary expands its global footprint with upcoming theatrical screenings

Photos by Lawrence Del Rosario

ERASERHEADS: COMBO ON THE RUN conquers the international stage with screenings at two major film festivals next month: the 44th Annual Hawai'i International Film Festival in the United States and the International Sound and Film Festival in Samobor, Croatia.

Directed and produced by Maria Diane Ventura, the critically acclaimed docu-film is part of the official selection for Spotlight On The Philippines, a showcase featuring new Filipino films that are redefining storytelling in groundbreaking, boundary-pushing ways. It will be screened at the Consolidated Theatres Kapolei 3 on October 30, 2025 at 6:00 pm in Honolulu, Hawaii. 

After Bringing The Substance to the Philippines, CreaZion Studios Premieres No Other Choice, an Oscar-Buzzing Korean Thriller by Master Director Park Chan-wook

In 2024, CreaZion Studios brought the acclaimed body-horror film The Substance, written and directed by Coralie Fargeat, to Philippine cinemas. Now, the creative powerhouse is delivering yet another world-class experience to local audiences with No Other Choice, the latest work from celebrated director Park Chan-wook (Oldboy (2003), The Handmaiden (2016)). The film opens in Philippine cinemas on October 29.

No Other Choice is led by actors Lee Byung-hun (Squid Game) and Son Ye-jin (Crash Landing On You). As of this writing, the film holds a 100% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes and has been praised as one of Park’s most gripping dramas. It’s about a desperate struggle for survival that resonates deeply with audiences worldwide.

Acclaimed Mandopop Artist Chen Linong Join Forces with Filipino Band Lola Amour for “With You”

Acclaimed Mandopop Artist Chen Linong Join Forces with Filipino Band Lola Amour for “With You” take center stage, conveying raw vulnerability and emotional depth.

Chen Linong’s empathetic, crystal-clear vocals grow from a tender whisper into a soulful outpouring of feeling, intertwining seamlessly with the rich, expressive tones of Lola Amour’s vocalist, Pio Dumayas. Their contrasting voices bring texture and emotional tension, breathing life into the song’s story.

This collaboration unites some of Asia’s most exciting musical talents. Lola Amour skyrocketed to fame in 2023 with their smash hit “Raining in Manila”, which topped charts on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. The band went on to win at the Awit Awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year, September 19, 2025 – Warner Music proudly unveils “With You”, a cross-border collaboration between Mandopop rising star Chen Linong and the Philippines’ seven-piece band Lola Amour. Produced by South Korea’s multi-platinum hitmaker Hyuk Shin, the single unites three of Asia's vibrant music scenes in one heartfelt ballad that transcends borders, language, and culture.

Gab Cabangon marks debut as a solo artist with the indie guitar-pop track “Pieces”

The budding singer-songwriter releases a song that feels like a warm embrace in difficult times

Filipino singer-songwriter Gab Cabangon steps into the spotlight with the release of “Pieces,” his first official single as a solo artist.

The acoustic indie pop track delivers an inspiring message for anyone going through the process of grief, uncertainty, and depression. Cabangon describes it as his “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay” song: an invitation for listeners to embrace vulnerability while holding on to the hope of healing and brighter days ahead.

HBO & MAX Receive 30 Wins At The 77th Primetime Emmy® awards And Across The Creative Arts Ceremonies

HBO and Max received 30 Emmy® awards across 12 original programs for the 77th annual Emmy® Awards. Stream award-winning Originals like The Penguin, The Pitt, Hacks, 100 Foot Wave and more, now available on HBO Max.

CreaZion Studios’ Patay na si Hesus Joins FDCP’s Pelikula ng Bayan x Sine50, Celebrating Filipino Cinema at Only Php 50!

CreaZion Studios’ critically - acclaimed dark comedy Patay na si Hesus, a favorite that continues to resonate with Filipino audiences for its humor, family-centered narrative, and raw depiction of life in the Visayan region is back to join FDCP’s Pelikula ng Bayan this Philippine Film Industry Month (PFIM) this September 17-23, 2025, now made even more exciting through Sine50! This meaningful collaboration puts the spotlight on Filipino voices and stories, with six acclaimed Pinoy films screened nationwide all for only Php 50 each. 

The film, directed by Victor Villanueva and written by Fatrick Tabada, has earned praise for balancing comedy and heartbreak while showcasing the complexities of family relationships, a true gem of Philippine independent cinema. 

Ber Months, Ber Vibes Binges: The Perfect Movies & Series to Start Your Cozy September

While we're counting down to the most wonderful time of the year, start the Ber months right with a cozy watchlist that feels like a warm hug.

There’s something about the “Ber months” that feels instantly different. The nights get cooler, Christmas playlists start sneaking into jeepney rides and malls, and the air carries that faint mix of nostalgia and excitement. In the Philippines, September doesn't just mark the start of the holiday countdown – it’s also the perfect excuse to slow down, cozy up, and indulge in feel-good entertainment.

Whether you’re into love stories that make your heart flutter, supernatural romances with a bite, or dramas that feel achingly real, Lionsgate Play has something for every mood. Here are five comforting picks to kick off the Ber month binge.

Global Stars Take To The Stage At Isle Of MTV Malta 2025, Airing On MTV Live On Sunday, 14 September

MTV’s annual Isle of MTV Malta festival featured performances from international artists ALOK, Damiano David and Ella Henderson, plus a set from Maltese star Miriana Conte.

Flanked by 6 dancers, Miriana also welcomed fellow Maltese artist Sarah Bonnici on stage for an epic cover of Charli XCX and Billie Eilish’s “Guess”.

Local DJs DODZ, Wyne, Gabii, Denzel Jo Armani, Koroma, Keane, Miggy and Debrii also delivered energetic sets throughout the evening, whilst Blush Malta delivered a crowd-wide sing-a-long session.

The festival will air on MTV Live on Sunday, 14 September at 9:45am PHT with encores at 6:45pm PHT, as well as Monday, 15 September at 6:00pm PHT.

The Revolution Begins at Godolkin: Gen V Season 2 Premieres September 17

Prime Video’s hit series Gen V, the explosive spin-off from The Boys, returns for its highly anticipated second season on September 17, 2025, launching with the first three episodes followed by weekly releases.

Set in the morally complex world of Godolkin University, Season 2 picks up as the campus reels from the fallout of Season 1’s shocking finale. With Homelander’s grip tightening across America, the students face new threats, a mysterious new Dean, and a secret program that could change everything.

Returning to her role as Marie Moreau, Jaz Sinclair shares her excitement. “We left off Season 1 having discovered a whole new level of Marie’s abilities, and I was thrilled to see where the writers were going to go from there with that. Everything felt a bit foreboding and grim, which gave me a lot to play with.”

Sinclair adds, “I like that Marie is just figuring it out as she goes, I definitely can relate to the moments of hers that are awkward and fumble-y. I like that she makes mistakes. But maybe, people also relate to feeling guilty or out of place and wanting to turn that into something good?”

Damiano David announces forthcoming single ‘Talk to Me’ featuring Tyla & Nile Rodgers

The acclaimed Italian singer-songwriter Damiano David has announced the news of brand-new single ‘Talk to Me’, featuring collaborations from South African sensation and the grammy winner Tyla and the legendary and multiple Grammy award winning Nile Rodgers.

‘Talk to Me, feat Tyla & Nile Rodgers’ will be unveiled this Friday, 12th September at 00:00am GMT. The track marks an exciting collaboration that unites Damiano’s signature emotive lyricism, Tyla’s distinctive vocal style, and the unmistakable groove of Nile Rodgers. Out this Friday, 12th September via Sony Music Italy / Arista. 

Filipino-Norwegian R&B star HILLARI headlines first solo show in Manila

The homecoming show aims to create space for reconnection through music

Filipino-Norwegian singer-songwriter HILLARI is set to headline her first solo show in the Philippines this September 21, 2025, at Sari-Sari bar in Makati City.

The rising R&B phenom will be performing an intimate set on the strength of her recently released 7-track EP, New Beginnings, which is described as a “bold body of work that explores transformation, letting go, and stepping into one’s power.”

The Ridleys to Open for Morissette’s 15th Anniversary Concert “Ember” Patron A Section Now Open by Popular Demand

Indie-folk favorites The Ridleys are officially joining Morissette’s 15th anniversary concert, Ember, as the opening act—bringing their heartfelt storytelling to the Smart Araneta Coliseum stage on October 28, 2025.

Known for their intimate and emotionally stirring performances, The Ridleys have built a loyal following in the local music scene, and their addition to the lineup makes Ember even more of a must-see event. Their presence offers fans of both The Ridleys and Morissette a rare opportunity to celebrate two generations of Filipino artistry on one historic night.

CreaZion Studios’ “Isang Himala” Receives Multiple Gawad Urian Nominations

Ahead of the Gawad Urian Awards night, Isang Himala, the critically acclaimed film from CreaZion Studios, has clinched multiple nominations in major categories.

The acclaimed film garnered the following nominations:

• Best Actress – Aicelle Santos
• Best Supporting Actress – Bituin Escalante
• Best Supporting Actress – Kakki Teodoro
• Best Supporting Actor – David Ezra
• Best Music – Vincent De Jesus
• Best Sound – Albert Michael Idioma and Emilio Bien Sparks

These nominations are a true testament to the dedication, artistry, and heart poured into Isang Himala from its cast and creative team to every hand behind the scenes.

“These nominations for Isang Himala affirm the kind of stories we want to keep telling at CreaZion Studios,” Chief Executive Officer of CreaZion Studios RJ Agustin said. “Stories that resonate deeply with audiences while showcasing the brilliance of Filipino talent. ​​We are grateful to the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino for recognizing the hard work and passion behind this film.”

NOBITA and Yeng Constantino collaborate on new heartfelt ballad, “Gayuma”

Produced by Brian Lotho, the song tackles the hesitation of confessing one’s romantic feeling to someone

Filipino pop-rock quintet NOBITA links up with Yeng Constantino in the collaborative new single “Gayuma,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment. 

Caught between wanting to confess and being afraid to take the first step, the song explores a quiet kind of love that swells in secret. 

“The lyrics capture the uncertainty—whether what you feel is genuine love or just something that seems magical, almost like a spell,” NOBITA shares in a press statement. “It reflects the theme of secret love because it’s about holding back, wondering if the other person feels the same way, and hoping the emotions are mutual.”

What's New on HBO MAX This September

Stream the premiere of the HBO Original drama series Task, starring Mark Ruffalo and Fabien Frankel, and join Domhnall Gleeson (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 and 2) and Sabrina Impacciatore (The White Lotus Season two) in their new comedy series The Paper, written and executive produced by Greg Daniels (Creator of The Office). Catch thriller Black Bag, starring Cate Blanchett, Michael Fassbender and Pierce Brosnan, as well as Nicolas Cage’s Arcadian, all on HBO Max.

Slico’s Debut Single “Bagkos” Is Finally Here

Get ready to fall in love with Slico’s first-ever single! The viral TikToker, known for his captivating song covers and engaging singing content, has officially dropped his highly anticipated debut song “Bagkos” — a perfect showcase of his talent.

Slico’s light, clear vocals bring genuine emotion to lyrics about love. Take the line, “Init ng mga haplos mo'y nagpahiwatig na tayong dalawa ay nakabagkos, tayo’y nagkabagkos,” which highlights his ability to express deep feelings with simplicity.

The term “nagkabagkos” is a creative twist by the songwriter. Though it’s not a formal word, it feels familiar, echoing “nagkabigkis” (bound together) while also hinting at “bagkos” (but, rather). This blend captures both closeness and contradiction — the sweetness of being tied to someone and the bittersweet ache of knowing it may only exist in memory.

Gracenote steps into the spotlight with Walang Makakapigil concert

The Filipino alt-pop band will treat fans to a career-spanning setlist and never-before-heard songs

Filipino alternative-pop band Gracenote will be taking the center stage for their solo concert titled Walang Makakapigil, happening on September 6, 2025, at Teatrino, Promenade in Greenhills, San Juan City.

Presented by Soupstar Music, in partnership with Redlines Productions, EMI Records Philippines, and UMG Philippines, the concert will showcase some of the pop-rock quartet’s most memorable hits, along with their hidden gems and brand-new songs, all in one exciting night.

“Rehab” is Shanti Dope’s Most Personal And Courageous Work Yet

Filipino hip-hop sensation Shanti Dope delivers his most personal and courageous work yet with his new single "Rehab,” a track that chronicles his battle with addiction, the road to recovery, and the power of love as a driving force for change. 

The song is an unfiltered confession, a mirror of Shanti Dope’s own battles with substance abuse, peer pressure, and his experience on the dark side of fame. What began as experimentation with an illegal substance led to a troubled path, forcing him to confront his demons and seek rehabilitation for the sake of those he loves most—his partner, his son, and his family. In a heartfelt verse, Shanti raps: Sabik na kong gawin yung halikan ka pagkagaling ng rehab. Hindi sapat sa akin na ika’y yakapin lang. Yung tamang panahon ay darating din basta kapit lang.

"Rehab" boldly challenges the shame often associated with recovering from substance abuse–Shanti presents rehabilitation as an act of strength—proof that fighting for a better life requires strength and courage. The song is for anyone who struggles with addiction and their inner demons. His reminder that you are not alone, that asking for help is not a weakness, and that change is possible. If you keep holding on, the right moment will come. As Shanti said in the song, Yung tamang panahon ay darating basta kapit lang.

Ebe Dancel returns with 20-piece orchestra for 25th anniversary concert

The iconic singer-songwriter brings timeless hits and new songs to life with The Manila String Machine in a monumental repeat concert directed by Paolo Valenciano

Good news for OPM fans: acclaimed singer-songwriter Ebe Dancel returns to the big stage with another major solo concert.

Titled Ebe Dancel with The Manila String Machine: The Repeat Concert, the highly anticipated event will take place on November 15, 2025, at the New Frontier Theater.

Following the success of his sold-out first run, Dancel celebrates his 25th year in music with a night of timeless songwriting, powerful storytelling, and sweeping orchestral arrangements that breathe new life into his storied catalog.

For the second staging of his monumental concert, Ebe will be joined by a 20-piece orchestra led by Chino David, with Paolo Valenciano directing the whole show. The concert promises to be a showcase of his legacy both as a solo artist and as the lead singer/principal songwriter behind pop-rock powerhouse Sugarfree.

Jewel Owusu drops music video of “spark”

Filipino-Ghanian artist Jewel Owusu has dropped the music video for “spark.”

A visual companion set in the haze of a late-night club, the MV follows Jewel Owusu navigating the crowded dance floor, barely keeping up with the frenetic energy and the people around her.

According to Owusu, the video evokes the sensory experience of being in a club but completely alienated from its lively, bustling vibe. “It’s one of those nights where you show up, but you’re not actually having a good time. You’re caught in your own head while everyone else around you is on a completely different wavelength. It feels as if you are moving through space in an alternate reality.

AXEAN Festival releases full lineup for its 2025 edition

Featuring 45 acts across three stages, this year’s festival highlights collaboration with TuneCore and The Orchard in supporting Asian indie talents

Bali, Indonesia – ​AXEAN Festival 2025 has officially announced its final lineup for this year’s edition.

The stage is set for the first intra-regional showcase festival in Asia, as it welcomes 43 music acts across three stages at Jimbaran Hub in Bali, Indonesia, from September 13 to 14, 2025.

Completing the final round of performers are some of the most prominent and emerging names in the Indonesian music scene, including metal/hardcore quintet AVHATH, beloved folk duo Banda Neira, rising indie act Gozal, alternative rock outfit Grizzly Cluive, genre-bending band Morbid Monke, indie rock powerhouse Sandstorm of Youth, melancholic indie group sourmilk, multi-talented musician Xandega, and a special collaboration set between Bandung-based punk rock band Dongker and acclaimed singer-songwriter Jason Ranti.

Wolf Alice new album The Clearing, out now

Today, seminal British band Wolf Alice release their eagerly anticipated fourth studio album The Clearing, alongside focus track ‘Just Two Girls’, via Sony Music. 

Speaking on the new track, Rowsell adds: “I was inspired by going for dinner with my friends — a couple of friends, at different times, just one-on-one. I noticed how much I was saying Oh my god yeah you’re so right! And I thought it was so nice to see how validating these conversations with my girlfriends are, how much I’m learning in these chats. I think I’ve been trying to figure out a lot of things, like getting older. I feel it’s really been a strange time of thinking about appearance. And these are things you hash out with your girlfriends and suddenly you don’t feel so shit about them again. I just felt like there deserved to be a song about that.”