MORE and more wonders unfold with each visit to the Ayala Malls. Considered as the urban hub of A-list retail brands, the Ayala Malls never runs out of first-rate choices for the whole family.
In its quest to bring complete customer satisfaction, the Ayala Malls Cinemas redefines the movie experience as it brings to fore the latest buzz in filmmaking technology. Digital and 3D can now be fully enjoyed at the Ayala Malls Cinemas, adding a new brand of excitement to discriminating Ayala patrons. And as the Ayala Malls Cinemas open more digitally-equipped theaters, more moviegoers can now have a truly delightful day at the movies.
We are very proud to give our patrons a front row treat to the latest advancement in cinema exhibition industry,’ avers Ayala Malls Cinemas general manager Amir Precilla. “It gives avid moviegoers tremendous pleasure in their viewing experience. As our digital cinema tagline, “Blockbusterize Your Movie Experience” suggests, movie watching at the Ayala Malls Digital Cinemas makes a day at the movies a truly rewarding experience. It also complements the fine offerings of Ayala Malls in terms of dining and retail shops.”
With the Dolby Digital Cinema technology in place, viewers get an improved theater experience with its high quality image and sound. It delivers vivid colors and a sharper, clearer image from every seat in the house. Excitement is heightened as pictures are enhanced. And with the latest 3D technology, moviegoers get to see life-like amazing sense of depth, making viewers feel as if they are in the midst of the scenes happening on screen. Complementing this highly advanced visual treat is the theater’s captivating sound system. With all these state-of-the-art technology and the distinguished Ayala brand of customer service, moviegoers are in for a blockbuster experience.
It was in 2009 when Ayala Malls Cinemas unveiled its Digital Cinemas in TriNoma, Alabang Town Center, Greenbelt 3 and Glorietta 4 (the latter two being THX-certified cinemas). Since then, this technological breakthrough has served as the anchor of Ayala Mall’s entertainment component for the whole family. Moviegoers were taken beyond the realms of imagination with spectacular visual innovations coupled with compelling stories.
As the wonderful world of cinema continues to entertain the whole family, the Ayala Malls Cinemas pulls all stops to bring more Filipinos closer to the latest in cinematic innovation – a fine complement to the luxurious lifestyle only the Ayala Malls can offer.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
The Chipmunks are back - with a new guardian
After the huge success of “Alvin and the Chipmunks” comes the hotly anticipated “Alvin and the Chipmunks 2: The Squeakquel” in which the mischievous and delightful trio – Alvin, Simon and Theodore have to deal with school along with their new temporary guardian Toby (played by Zachary Levi).
Life changes a hundred eighty degree turn for the Chipmunks when Alvin inadvertently causes an accident on stage which results in Dave Seville’s severe bone fracture forcing him to stay for months in a French hospital. Dave then designates his aunt as the Chipmunks’ guardian. Unfortunately, the wheelchair-bound Aunt Jackie also encountered a bad accident, leaving Dave’s cousin, the likeable but irresponsible Toby in charge of the Chipmunks.
Toby is hardly the type of secure family figure the Chipmunks need at this important crossroads in their lives. Levi tunes us in the following q&a how he and the Chipmunks got along in the film.
Q: What is Toby’s character like?
A: “Toby is just a big kid. He is the nerdy cousin of Dave. He is in his mid to late twenties and is a real man-child who didn’t do anything with his life. He might have the potential, but doesn’t have the drive yet to get anywhere.”
Q: How qualified is Toby to be the guardian of the Chipmunks?
A: “Toby is not qualified to take care of the Chipmunks, but he does have a good heart. He sees the Chipmunks and learns about family and love between brothers. He also learns to face his own fears. As little Theodore stands up to his fears, Toby does too.
Q: How was it working in the film?
A: “I spent most of the movie talking to characters who aren’t really there. But I feel that as long as you play it honestly, there is a certain reality that will come out of it. Using your imagination is crucial, but I enjoy it, its fun and challenging. It’s nice to work those muscles out.
Q: What will the audience look forward in the sequel?
A: “People like the characters…parents remember them and kids love them. This might sound crazy but I honestly think it’s a blessed idea. They have hit on something incredibly special. At the end of the day this film hearkens back to great classic family entertainment that we don’t really get too much these days. It’s a big high-energy family comedy that everyone will love.”
One of People’s “Sexiest Man Alive” in 2007 and Entertainment Weekly’s “30 Under 30” list of actors to watch in 2008., Zachary Levi’s rise to fame came when he played a computer geek-turned-unwitting government agent on the surprise hit series, “Chuck.”
After graduating from high scholl, Levi starred in regional productions of “Grease,” “The Outsiders,” “Oliver,” “The Wizard of Oz,” and “Big River.” With a struggling actor’s salary, Levi took odd jobs to pay the bills, including work as a busboy, as an employee at Blockbuster and at a car wash which would later on become his tool for character-building.
Levi’s film credits include “Big Momma’s House 2,” “American Carol,” “Spiral,” “Wieners” and “Big Shot: Confessions of a Campus Bookie.”
“Alvin and the Chipmunks 2: The Squeakquel” opens January 8 in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.
Life changes a hundred eighty degree turn for the Chipmunks when Alvin inadvertently causes an accident on stage which results in Dave Seville’s severe bone fracture forcing him to stay for months in a French hospital. Dave then designates his aunt as the Chipmunks’ guardian. Unfortunately, the wheelchair-bound Aunt Jackie also encountered a bad accident, leaving Dave’s cousin, the likeable but irresponsible Toby in charge of the Chipmunks.
Toby is hardly the type of secure family figure the Chipmunks need at this important crossroads in their lives. Levi tunes us in the following q&a how he and the Chipmunks got along in the film.
Q: What is Toby’s character like?
A: “Toby is just a big kid. He is the nerdy cousin of Dave. He is in his mid to late twenties and is a real man-child who didn’t do anything with his life. He might have the potential, but doesn’t have the drive yet to get anywhere.”
Q: How qualified is Toby to be the guardian of the Chipmunks?
A: “Toby is not qualified to take care of the Chipmunks, but he does have a good heart. He sees the Chipmunks and learns about family and love between brothers. He also learns to face his own fears. As little Theodore stands up to his fears, Toby does too.
Q: How was it working in the film?
A: “I spent most of the movie talking to characters who aren’t really there. But I feel that as long as you play it honestly, there is a certain reality that will come out of it. Using your imagination is crucial, but I enjoy it, its fun and challenging. It’s nice to work those muscles out.
Q: What will the audience look forward in the sequel?
A: “People like the characters…parents remember them and kids love them. This might sound crazy but I honestly think it’s a blessed idea. They have hit on something incredibly special. At the end of the day this film hearkens back to great classic family entertainment that we don’t really get too much these days. It’s a big high-energy family comedy that everyone will love.”
One of People’s “Sexiest Man Alive” in 2007 and Entertainment Weekly’s “30 Under 30” list of actors to watch in 2008., Zachary Levi’s rise to fame came when he played a computer geek-turned-unwitting government agent on the surprise hit series, “Chuck.”
After graduating from high scholl, Levi starred in regional productions of “Grease,” “The Outsiders,” “Oliver,” “The Wizard of Oz,” and “Big River.” With a struggling actor’s salary, Levi took odd jobs to pay the bills, including work as a busboy, as an employee at Blockbuster and at a car wash which would later on become his tool for character-building.
Levi’s film credits include “Big Momma’s House 2,” “American Carol,” “Spiral,” “Wieners” and “Big Shot: Confessions of a Campus Bookie.”
“Alvin and the Chipmunks 2: The Squeakquel” opens January 8 in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Of Nice and Men
There's something about Amelia, and also All About Steve...
Two new endearing films from 20th Century Fox: "All About Steve” and “Amelia” -- brought to the fore by talented actors Bradley Cooper and Richard Gere.
Multi-layered Bradley Cooper whom audiences recently seen in the box-office hit “The Hangover” stars opposite Sandra Bullock in the heartwarming comedy “All About Steve.” Cooper is news cameraman Steve Hartman whom whiz woman Mary Horowitz (Bullock) pursues after their first hot date outside Mary’s house, her parent’s house. Realizing she has found her soul mate, Mary goes on a rendezvous following Steve in news coverage. Gentle and polite, Steve can’t easily get it across the socially-challenged cruciverbalist Mary that they are not an item. What happens is a series of offbeat situations between Mary and Steve that eventually got people and the news moving across the country. Despite the media storm surrounding her, Mary with her upbeat, unaffected manner brings together a small community of new friends. Steve, despite being stalked all throughout pans on the spotlight to Mary to tell the world that the ones who don’t fit in are the ones who really stand out.
During pre-production, it became evident to Bullock who also produces the movie that Bradley Cooper fit the bill as the handsome cameraman Steve, who elicits a passionate response from Mary during their very brief first date. Cooper’s rugged good looks, innate charisma and impeccable comic timing, most recently on display in his lead role in the blockbuster comedy “The Hangover,” proved to be an irresistible combination. “He has the ability to play the cad believably, yet can still evolve into someone who’s misunderstood,” says Bullock. Cooper says the feeling was mutual and taking on the role was an easy decision. “The draw for joining the project was Sandy [Bullock],” he recalls. “The prospect of working with such a wonderful actress was enticing, and I thought it would be a great experience.”
Cooper, with his extensive training and experience in theater, television and film, is one of the most sought after actors of his generation. He recently starred in the hit comedy, “The Hangover.” His other film credits include “He’s Just Not That Into You,” “Yes Man,” “Wedding Crashers” and “Wet Hot American Summer.” Born in Philadelphia, PA, Cooper graduated with honors in the English program at Georgetown University. After moving to New York City, he obtained his Masters in the Fine Arts program at the Actors Studio Drama School at the New School University.
Parallel to what was done in Julia Roberts’ role in “Pretty Woman,” Richard Gere once again empowers women as he puts Hilary Swank right on the spotlight in the movie biopic “Amelia.” In the upcoming flight of “Amelia,” Gere plays the wealthy influential publishing magnate George Putnam who was the man behind the fame of world’s pioneer aviatrix Amelia Earheart.
Amelia Earheart’s (Swank) early aviation triumphs and meteoric rise to fame and fortune were propelled along by her tempestuous partnership and eventual marriage to publisher George Putnam (Gere). Bound by mutual ambition, admiration and ultimately a great love, their bond could not be broken with her brief passionate affair with Gene Vidal (Ewan McGregor). And in the summer of 1937, Amelia set off on her most daunting mission yet: a solo flight around the world that she and George both anxiously foresaw as destined, whatever the outcome, to become one of the most talked-about journeys in history.
Golden Globe winner Richard Gere who plays George Putnam with so much charm is best known for his notable roles in acclaimed hit films “Chicago,” “Unfaithful,” “An Officer and a Gentleman,” “Days of Heaven,” “American Gigolo,” “Pretty Woman” and “Primal Fear.” Gere has proven himself as an enduring Hollywood star who made women’s heart race in his other films which include “”Nights in Rodanthe,” “Shall We Dance,” “”The Interpreter,” “Autumn in New York,” “Sommersby” and “Runaway Bride.”
Off screen, Gere is an accomplished pianist, music writer and humanitarian. A student and friend of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, he also became an accomplished photographer and made his first book, “Pilgrim,” a collection of images from twenty-year journey throughout India, Nepal, Zanskar, Tibet, Mongolia and China.
“All About Steve” and “Amelia” opens very soon in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.
Two new endearing films from 20th Century Fox: "All About Steve” and “Amelia” -- brought to the fore by talented actors Bradley Cooper and Richard Gere.
Multi-layered Bradley Cooper whom audiences recently seen in the box-office hit “The Hangover” stars opposite Sandra Bullock in the heartwarming comedy “All About Steve.” Cooper is news cameraman Steve Hartman whom whiz woman Mary Horowitz (Bullock) pursues after their first hot date outside Mary’s house, her parent’s house. Realizing she has found her soul mate, Mary goes on a rendezvous following Steve in news coverage. Gentle and polite, Steve can’t easily get it across the socially-challenged cruciverbalist Mary that they are not an item. What happens is a series of offbeat situations between Mary and Steve that eventually got people and the news moving across the country. Despite the media storm surrounding her, Mary with her upbeat, unaffected manner brings together a small community of new friends. Steve, despite being stalked all throughout pans on the spotlight to Mary to tell the world that the ones who don’t fit in are the ones who really stand out.
During pre-production, it became evident to Bullock who also produces the movie that Bradley Cooper fit the bill as the handsome cameraman Steve, who elicits a passionate response from Mary during their very brief first date. Cooper’s rugged good looks, innate charisma and impeccable comic timing, most recently on display in his lead role in the blockbuster comedy “The Hangover,” proved to be an irresistible combination. “He has the ability to play the cad believably, yet can still evolve into someone who’s misunderstood,” says Bullock. Cooper says the feeling was mutual and taking on the role was an easy decision. “The draw for joining the project was Sandy [Bullock],” he recalls. “The prospect of working with such a wonderful actress was enticing, and I thought it would be a great experience.”
Cooper, with his extensive training and experience in theater, television and film, is one of the most sought after actors of his generation. He recently starred in the hit comedy, “The Hangover.” His other film credits include “He’s Just Not That Into You,” “Yes Man,” “Wedding Crashers” and “Wet Hot American Summer.” Born in Philadelphia, PA, Cooper graduated with honors in the English program at Georgetown University. After moving to New York City, he obtained his Masters in the Fine Arts program at the Actors Studio Drama School at the New School University.
Parallel to what was done in Julia Roberts’ role in “Pretty Woman,” Richard Gere once again empowers women as he puts Hilary Swank right on the spotlight in the movie biopic “Amelia.” In the upcoming flight of “Amelia,” Gere plays the wealthy influential publishing magnate George Putnam who was the man behind the fame of world’s pioneer aviatrix Amelia Earheart.
Amelia Earheart’s (Swank) early aviation triumphs and meteoric rise to fame and fortune were propelled along by her tempestuous partnership and eventual marriage to publisher George Putnam (Gere). Bound by mutual ambition, admiration and ultimately a great love, their bond could not be broken with her brief passionate affair with Gene Vidal (Ewan McGregor). And in the summer of 1937, Amelia set off on her most daunting mission yet: a solo flight around the world that she and George both anxiously foresaw as destined, whatever the outcome, to become one of the most talked-about journeys in history.
Golden Globe winner Richard Gere who plays George Putnam with so much charm is best known for his notable roles in acclaimed hit films “Chicago,” “Unfaithful,” “An Officer and a Gentleman,” “Days of Heaven,” “American Gigolo,” “Pretty Woman” and “Primal Fear.” Gere has proven himself as an enduring Hollywood star who made women’s heart race in his other films which include “”Nights in Rodanthe,” “Shall We Dance,” “”The Interpreter,” “Autumn in New York,” “Sommersby” and “Runaway Bride.”
Off screen, Gere is an accomplished pianist, music writer and humanitarian. A student and friend of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, he also became an accomplished photographer and made his first book, “Pilgrim,” a collection of images from twenty-year journey throughout India, Nepal, Zanskar, Tibet, Mongolia and China.
“All About Steve” and “Amelia” opens very soon in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Digital Innovations in Greenbelt 3 Cinemas
MODERN living found great comfort when practically everything became digital. Touted as one of the wonders of cutting edge technology, the digital age has changed the way we view the world around us. From watches to cameras, mobile phones to television sets, going digital has made life easier and truly rewarding.
Taking cue from this dynamic movement, Ayala Malls Cinemas sparks excitement in the local cinema exhibition landscape as it unveils an innovative technology designed to take movie-watching experience a notch higher. The THX certified Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1is now equipped with Dolby 3D Digital Cinema technology, guaranteed to give discerning movie goers a one-of-a-kind viewing pleasure.
This ground-breaking approach to film exhibition gives a refreshing dimension to the silver screen. What was once viewed as “flat” images now spring to life with realistic clarity and brilliant colors.
Audiences in the posh cinema will be asked to wear special glasses with filtering lenses. From the moment the first scene unfolds, viewers will actually feel as if they were “in” the movie virtually experiencing what the characters are going through.
Enhancing the 3D Digital Cinema experience is the theater’s THX sound system. Setting the standards in high quality film presentation, the THX sound system delivers a full dynamic audio range that is uniformly distributed throughout the theater.
The Dolby 3D Digital Cinema technology is just one of the major attractions that discerning mall goers can look forward to. As one of the country’s premiere lifestyle centers, Greenbelt provides world-class shopping and dining options, not to mention a myriad of enjoyable leisure activities for the whole family. The interesting mix of premium retail outlets and concept restaurants provides a unique charm that complements state-of-the-art innovations in shopping malls and movie theaters.
Taking cue from this dynamic movement, Ayala Malls Cinemas sparks excitement in the local cinema exhibition landscape as it unveils an innovative technology designed to take movie-watching experience a notch higher. The THX certified Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1is now equipped with Dolby 3D Digital Cinema technology, guaranteed to give discerning movie goers a one-of-a-kind viewing pleasure.
This ground-breaking approach to film exhibition gives a refreshing dimension to the silver screen. What was once viewed as “flat” images now spring to life with realistic clarity and brilliant colors.
Audiences in the posh cinema will be asked to wear special glasses with filtering lenses. From the moment the first scene unfolds, viewers will actually feel as if they were “in” the movie virtually experiencing what the characters are going through.
Enhancing the 3D Digital Cinema experience is the theater’s THX sound system. Setting the standards in high quality film presentation, the THX sound system delivers a full dynamic audio range that is uniformly distributed throughout the theater.
The Dolby 3D Digital Cinema technology is just one of the major attractions that discerning mall goers can look forward to. As one of the country’s premiere lifestyle centers, Greenbelt provides world-class shopping and dining options, not to mention a myriad of enjoyable leisure activities for the whole family. The interesting mix of premium retail outlets and concept restaurants provides a unique charm that complements state-of-the-art innovations in shopping malls and movie theaters.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Ashley Leads the Teen Pack
TODAY’s hottest dolls Ashley Tisdale, Megan Fox, Alexis Bledel and Hayden Panattiere star in heartwarming funny films painted on different palettes of adolescent years.
Ashley Tisdale’s comedic chops will tickle every lad’s fancy in “Aliens in the Attic” (previously “They Came from Upstairs”) as she appears alongside talented youngsters Carter Jenkins and Austin Butler and veteran comedians Kevin Nealon and Gillian Vigman in this comedy adventure. Tisdale takes on the role of Bethany as the pretty teenage girl who wants to impress her older boyfriend Ricky, played by Robert Hoffman while in the midst of fighting aliens who invaded their vacation home from upstairs. As Bethany and the kids learn to help each other, audiences will be taken on a fun and wild journey full of state-of-the-art special effects and side-splittingly funny adventures.
For guys who are too coy to express their feelings, “I Love You Beth Cooper” will give you the courage to finally let it out your chest. In the movie, nerdy Dennis Cooverman (played by newcomer Paul Rust) surprises popular cheerleader Beth Cooper played by Hayden Panattiere when he finally proclaimed his love for the hottest girl in school during his valedictory address. Much to his surprise, Beth shows up that very night and decides to show him the best night of his life.
Alexis Bledel is an A-grade student in “Post Grad” where she plays Ryden Malby who did well in high school thereby receiving one of the most coveted college scholarships. But when her dream job after college is stolen by her college nemesis, Ryden is forced to move back with her eccentric family where her only upside is spending time with her best friend Adam (Zach Gilford) and meeting hot next-door neighbor David (Rodrigo Santoro).
Megan Fox goes diabolical in the intriguing, pitch-black, horror comedy “Jennifer’s Body” from Oscar-winning screenwriter Diablo Cody (“Juno”). Fox is a gorgeous cheerleader in the movie possessed by a demon who starts feeding off the boys in a small Minnesota farming town. Amanda Seyfried plays her “plain Jane” best friend and must kill her, then escape from a correctional facility to go after the Satan-worshiping rock band responsible for the horrible transformation.
“Aliens in the Attic,” “I Love You Beth Cooper,” “Post Grad” and “Jennifer’s Body” will open very soon in cinemas from 20th Century Fox films to be distributed by Warner Bros.
Ashley Tisdale’s comedic chops will tickle every lad’s fancy in “Aliens in the Attic” (previously “They Came from Upstairs”) as she appears alongside talented youngsters Carter Jenkins and Austin Butler and veteran comedians Kevin Nealon and Gillian Vigman in this comedy adventure. Tisdale takes on the role of Bethany as the pretty teenage girl who wants to impress her older boyfriend Ricky, played by Robert Hoffman while in the midst of fighting aliens who invaded their vacation home from upstairs. As Bethany and the kids learn to help each other, audiences will be taken on a fun and wild journey full of state-of-the-art special effects and side-splittingly funny adventures.
For guys who are too coy to express their feelings, “I Love You Beth Cooper” will give you the courage to finally let it out your chest. In the movie, nerdy Dennis Cooverman (played by newcomer Paul Rust) surprises popular cheerleader Beth Cooper played by Hayden Panattiere when he finally proclaimed his love for the hottest girl in school during his valedictory address. Much to his surprise, Beth shows up that very night and decides to show him the best night of his life.
Alexis Bledel is an A-grade student in “Post Grad” where she plays Ryden Malby who did well in high school thereby receiving one of the most coveted college scholarships. But when her dream job after college is stolen by her college nemesis, Ryden is forced to move back with her eccentric family where her only upside is spending time with her best friend Adam (Zach Gilford) and meeting hot next-door neighbor David (Rodrigo Santoro).
Megan Fox goes diabolical in the intriguing, pitch-black, horror comedy “Jennifer’s Body” from Oscar-winning screenwriter Diablo Cody (“Juno”). Fox is a gorgeous cheerleader in the movie possessed by a demon who starts feeding off the boys in a small Minnesota farming town. Amanda Seyfried plays her “plain Jane” best friend and must kill her, then escape from a correctional facility to go after the Satan-worshiping rock band responsible for the horrible transformation.
“Aliens in the Attic,” “I Love You Beth Cooper,” “Post Grad” and “Jennifer’s Body” will open very soon in cinemas from 20th Century Fox films to be distributed by Warner Bros.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Aliens Meet Ashley Tisdale
HIGH School Musical star Ashley Tisdale appears alongside talented youngsters in the upcoming adventure comedy “Aliens in the Attic,” an adventure comedy written by Mark Burton who wrote “Madagascar” and the Award-winning “Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were Rabbits” with Adam F. Goldberg, who also wrote “The Muppets: Wizard of Oz.”
“Aliens in the Attic” spirals into adventure when the Pearsons go on a family vacation. But soon, the kids realize that they are not alone as there are a group of knee-high aliens who have invaded their vacation house. As the aliens begin to attack from the attic, Bethany (Tisdale) along with the other kids must use all their skills, imagination and cooperation to protect the adults from the little creatures, who want to take over the world.
The movie takes the audience to the perfect family vacation home in Michigan, an idyllic place, especially for a bit of father and son bonding time fishing on the nearby lake. It’s definitely a low-tech house. There are no Playstations or iPods or any other technology these kids are used to. “In that spirit, we’re trying to provide a place where these families will feel there’s a great opportunity to throw technology away for a moment, to get rid of their iPods and just embrace being in the great outdoors, with evergreen trees, meadows, and a big rambling beautiful house,” explains the production designer Barry Chusid, who is famous for his work on “The Day After Tomorrow.”
“There are so many little things that are truly southern hemisphere, which are very different to the northern hemisphere,” continues Chusid. “Often times when you watch a movie, it’s not something that you actually look at and see but rather something you feel, whether it’s just the height of a doorknob or an electrical outlet. What we have done is to make everything look like a normal Michigan vacation spot so that the story can be all about the characters and the aliens and their journey. I think we’ve tried to meet the challenge head on and have some fun.”
The movie is certainly funny but it’s also a nuanced and warm look at family relationships and the struggle to find one’s own identity. “The cast has been incredibly enthusiastic, I imagine because the script gives them all a lot of opportunities to shine. Ashley is the perfect older sister. Her comedic timing, endless energy and consummate skill in front of the camera really inspired all the other kids,” enthuses director John Schultz.
“My character Bethany is a typical teenager,” says Tisdale of her role. “She has a younger brother and a younger sister and has that sibling relationship with her brother where they’re annoyed with each other all the time and he’s always embarrassing her,” she explains. “But she’s also someone who beneath the mean older sister exterior has a lot of heart and obviously when she knows what’s going on with the whole situation, jumps right in there with the family and sticks up for them, as well as for herself, so she was really fun to play.”
“Aliens in the Attic” opens very soon in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.
“Aliens in the Attic” spirals into adventure when the Pearsons go on a family vacation. But soon, the kids realize that they are not alone as there are a group of knee-high aliens who have invaded their vacation house. As the aliens begin to attack from the attic, Bethany (Tisdale) along with the other kids must use all their skills, imagination and cooperation to protect the adults from the little creatures, who want to take over the world.
The movie takes the audience to the perfect family vacation home in Michigan, an idyllic place, especially for a bit of father and son bonding time fishing on the nearby lake. It’s definitely a low-tech house. There are no Playstations or iPods or any other technology these kids are used to. “In that spirit, we’re trying to provide a place where these families will feel there’s a great opportunity to throw technology away for a moment, to get rid of their iPods and just embrace being in the great outdoors, with evergreen trees, meadows, and a big rambling beautiful house,” explains the production designer Barry Chusid, who is famous for his work on “The Day After Tomorrow.”
“There are so many little things that are truly southern hemisphere, which are very different to the northern hemisphere,” continues Chusid. “Often times when you watch a movie, it’s not something that you actually look at and see but rather something you feel, whether it’s just the height of a doorknob or an electrical outlet. What we have done is to make everything look like a normal Michigan vacation spot so that the story can be all about the characters and the aliens and their journey. I think we’ve tried to meet the challenge head on and have some fun.”
The movie is certainly funny but it’s also a nuanced and warm look at family relationships and the struggle to find one’s own identity. “The cast has been incredibly enthusiastic, I imagine because the script gives them all a lot of opportunities to shine. Ashley is the perfect older sister. Her comedic timing, endless energy and consummate skill in front of the camera really inspired all the other kids,” enthuses director John Schultz.
“My character Bethany is a typical teenager,” says Tisdale of her role. “She has a younger brother and a younger sister and has that sibling relationship with her brother where they’re annoyed with each other all the time and he’s always embarrassing her,” she explains. “But she’s also someone who beneath the mean older sister exterior has a lot of heart and obviously when she knows what’s going on with the whole situation, jumps right in there with the family and sticks up for them, as well as for herself, so she was really fun to play.”
“Aliens in the Attic” opens very soon in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
The Ice Agers are Back
THE world’s beloved prehistoric squirrel/rat known as Scrat is back in “Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs.” Ice Age’s 3rd installment ups the stakes even more for the hapless yet indefatigable Scrat, giving him a rival for the nut – a wily and attractive female squirrel/rat named Scratte (rhymes with “sautee”). Their battle of the sexes brings a new level of fun, action and especially romance to the beleaguered figure.
The burgeoning love and the fight for the nut go hand in hand for the rodent couple, no more so than during a scene that has them tangling – then tangoing – to Lou Rawls’ classic “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine.” “When we sat down to map out the scene,” recalls director Carlos Saldanha, we said, ‘Okay, they’re fighting over the nut. What can we do beyond a standard fight scene that will make it romantic, but still action-packed?” The resulting sequence, like so many others, points to the filmmakers’ desire to break new ground with each “Ice Age” film. (Even the object of their pursuit – the nut – gets an expanded role in this film, warbling a heartfelt tune based on Gilbert O’Sullivan’s “Alone Again (Naturally),” with special lyrics by co-screenwriter Yoni Brenner.)
Scrat, whose raison d’être is an elusive acorn, is initially envisioned for “Ice Age” as a peripheral character. Scrat’s explosive popularity in that first film’s teaser trailer led the filmmakers to expand the role significantly. “Ice Age: The Meltdown” explored new attitudes and frustrations for Scrat, as his quest remained unfulfilled. Not only did he instigate the meltdown and ensuing flood, Scrat ended up saving the day. The character’s exasperated squeaks, squeals, squawks, grunts and groans are again voiced by Chris Wedge, who helmed “Ice Age” and executive produced the two follow-ups.
Scratte, like all the “Ice Age” characters, was designed by noted artist Peter de Sève, who has been with the films since the inception of “Ice Age.” He worked to make the two rodents physically similar, but with important distinctions. “Scratte is smarter than Scrat,” he points out. “And she’s more refined and evolved.”
Karen Disher, who heads the film’s story department, voices Scratte. But Disher’s responsibilities extended beyond her vocal work. Unlike the film’s main story, scripted by Michael Berg & Peter Ackerman and Mike Reiss and Yoni Brenner, from a story by Jason Carter Eaton, the story department, working closely with Saldanha, created the Scrat-Scratte scenes. Disher and her team embraced the task of inventing new challenges for the beloved Scrat. “Working on the Scrat-Scratte scenes is the purest form of animation,” she notes.
“Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs” opens very soon this July in theaters nationwide from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.
The burgeoning love and the fight for the nut go hand in hand for the rodent couple, no more so than during a scene that has them tangling – then tangoing – to Lou Rawls’ classic “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine.” “When we sat down to map out the scene,” recalls director Carlos Saldanha, we said, ‘Okay, they’re fighting over the nut. What can we do beyond a standard fight scene that will make it romantic, but still action-packed?” The resulting sequence, like so many others, points to the filmmakers’ desire to break new ground with each “Ice Age” film. (Even the object of their pursuit – the nut – gets an expanded role in this film, warbling a heartfelt tune based on Gilbert O’Sullivan’s “Alone Again (Naturally),” with special lyrics by co-screenwriter Yoni Brenner.)
Scrat, whose raison d’être is an elusive acorn, is initially envisioned for “Ice Age” as a peripheral character. Scrat’s explosive popularity in that first film’s teaser trailer led the filmmakers to expand the role significantly. “Ice Age: The Meltdown” explored new attitudes and frustrations for Scrat, as his quest remained unfulfilled. Not only did he instigate the meltdown and ensuing flood, Scrat ended up saving the day. The character’s exasperated squeaks, squeals, squawks, grunts and groans are again voiced by Chris Wedge, who helmed “Ice Age” and executive produced the two follow-ups.
Scratte, like all the “Ice Age” characters, was designed by noted artist Peter de Sève, who has been with the films since the inception of “Ice Age.” He worked to make the two rodents physically similar, but with important distinctions. “Scratte is smarter than Scrat,” he points out. “And she’s more refined and evolved.”
Karen Disher, who heads the film’s story department, voices Scratte. But Disher’s responsibilities extended beyond her vocal work. Unlike the film’s main story, scripted by Michael Berg & Peter Ackerman and Mike Reiss and Yoni Brenner, from a story by Jason Carter Eaton, the story department, working closely with Saldanha, created the Scrat-Scratte scenes. Disher and her team embraced the task of inventing new challenges for the beloved Scrat. “Working on the Scrat-Scratte scenes is the purest form of animation,” she notes.
“Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs” opens very soon this July in theaters nationwide from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.
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