MISS PHILIPPINES GRABS MISS EARTH AIR 2012

 

German-Filipino model Stephany Stefanowitz made the Philippines proud as she bagged the Miss Earth-Air crown or roughly equivalent to the 1st runner-up in the recently concluded Miss Earth 2012 beauty pageant. The pageant which is a Filipino established pageant concentrates on mother nature preservation.

Miss Czech Republic won the top crown and was named Miss Earth 2012.

PRIDE MANILA 2012

Let us culminate this year's Street Parties with a Bang!

From the Producer of WHITE PARTY MANILA 2012 and the Creator of BLACK PARTY MANILA...
MENTORQUE PRODUCTIONS is bringing back the moment it painted Malate; RAINBOW!!!

DRESS CODE:
RED = TAKEN
ORANGE = COMPLICATED
YELLOW = BOTTOM
GREEN = SINGLE
BLUE = TOP
VIOLET = VERSA

For the Benefit of
The Love Yourself Project

Together with
Jose Cuervo Black
Tanduay Ice
Manila Light
EZ Lubricating Jelly
Frenzy Condoms

Present

Pride Manila 2012
The Rainbow Street Party
December 1, 2012
9PM
Saturday
Orosa-Nakpil Streets Malate, Manila

In Cooperation with
Androgyny Productions
Plun.Asia
Rainbow Flag Philippines
JC Undergear
Bem Elite Models
Don Cristobal
Charvin Torne Photography

Sponsored by
San Miguel Brewery Inc
SMDC
Fernbrook Gardens
New Solanie Hotel
SM Cinema
Snacktime
Digipost

Tickets Available at
SM Tickets 02 470 2222

MOVIE REVIEW: THIS GUY'S IN LOVE WITH YOU MARE

Wenn Deramas delivers an unlikely love triangle that deals with a man, a gay and a woman with "This Guy's In Love With You Mare". Dealing with a different kind of twist, this movie provided fun in all directions. Quite surprisingly it deals with a topic that is not yet well received in mainstream cinema but it did click.

The story is the basic plot one could get about a love triangle only without the normal hetero-twist. What actually clicks for this film is the fact that the jokes are nicely done and intelligently written. As usual, the main cast was good in making people laugh. It is given for Toni Gonzaga, Luis Manzano and of course Vice Ganda to be extremely funny and their combination was really exceptional.

However, aside from the good jokes and the nice acting from its stars, the film seems to lack uniqueness. It fails in making a new material out of a good script. Also, the best scenes of the film seems to come on the first few parts where Vice was at his funniest. His revengeful mood showcased his funny evil side. Once he gets better and the film goes to the more serious parts, the tendency is for it to be dragging. You'll still be entertained but will surely look for something more. This one's a 3.5 out of 5 popcorns.

MY TOP 5 BETS FOR THE VOICE SEASON 3

I was kinda shocked with the elimination of Bryan Keith as he missed out in the Top 8 for this season's The Voice. But here is my Top 5 out of the 8 remaining artists.

1. Melanie Martinez

The gap-toothed singer as what the internet fans call her, Melanie is surely one of the more unique voices left in the competition. Her style is a getaway from the usual pop we hear from today's artists. She is generally likeable and really knows who she wants to portray on the stage.

2. Dez Duron

From the start, I believe Dez has all the makings of a star. Although he does not have the best vocal chops in the competition, he truly adds style, charisma and performance that makes him such a winner. With good looks and hot bod to complement his good voice, he can truly win a lot of votes from fans.

3. Nicholas David

Another unique artist in the competition is Nicholas David. In terms of look and marketability to the young audience, we might see a bit of difficulty in making him a star. But then again, it's not just that makes one star successful. With a pleasing personality and a humble outlook, his voice could definitely take him to places.

4. Cody Belew

Cody is different but in a good way much like Adam Lambert is. What i like the most is his use of different vocal ranges and styles - falsetto, natural, vibrato and a lot more. He has spunk and drive that can actually make him push for more.

5. Trevin Hunte

Trevin is definitely one of the best vocalists in the competition with that high range on notes. But aside from that his youthfulness shows a bubbly personality that is easy to like. Although there are some issues on consistencies, arguably he is one vocal behemoth!

BREAKING DAWN PART 2 TOMORROW

 

The penultimate Twilight movie is finally hitting the shores of the Philippines tomorrow, November 15, 2012. The cinemas will once again be packed as we witness the ending to the vampire saga. Breaking Dawn Part 2 is sure to stomp authority in the box-office as we see one final battle that will end it all.

MY X-FACTOR USA 2012 TOP 5 BETS

The X-Factor USA Season 2 is really heating up and the competition and the judges are all toughening up. And as early as now where there are still 12 contestants on board, I am spilling my Top 5 bets on who I think will be doing exceptionally well as the competition goes on.

1. Carly Rose Sonenclar

Thirteen year old Carly Rose may prove to be the one with the strongest vocals in the competition and with her age she is destined to go places. Her vocal range and control is truly impeccable. She commands presence like no one else can. And aside from her wonderful vocal chops, what's likeable about Carly Rose is her personality - no fancies, no heartbreaking story behind her, just pure talent. Her performance of "It Will Rain" was simply amazing.

2. Emblem3

Okay, they may not have the best voices in the competition but this group truly has what it takes to succeed in today's pop world - marketable and relatable. The trio of hunks are actually good stage performers as they try to engage their audience with each performance. Every time they go out on stage, they just embody that great bag of energy which makes people like them. And one more thing to note is that they really enjoy each performance.

3. Vino Alan

I like Vino Alan from the get-go. He is one of the more sincere performers in the competition. It seems like every single performance he does is truly heart-felt and one could feel the emotions he is conveying with his every word. I like how he made "When A Man Loves A Woman" his own.

4. Paige Thomas

Minus her frequent crying, I think Paige is one of the acts that is ready for the real world as shown by her performances. It seems like she has a high level of comfort while performing on stage and that her every move was well executed. Her voice is not that powerful but the sultry feel of it could pass well for some songs that really suit her. She just might be the next R&B/Pop Fusion waiting on the wings.

5. Fifth Harmony

This is the third name for this group which used to be called Lylas and 1432 but they sure showed growth in just a few weeks time. Despite not being a group really and coming from individuals who were just grouped for the show, this quintet of ladies have shown they have what it takes to challenge for the title of X-Factor. They enthralled with their rendition of Christina Perri's A Thousand Years.

KEVIN BALOT WINS MISS INTERNATIONAL QUEEN 2012

 

Days before June Macasaet made our country proud with his victory at the Manhunt International 2012 pageant in Thailand, one of our country's pride has actually brought home a big prize for all of us he/she won the Miss International Queen 2012.

 

Kevin Balot bested 20 other contestants from different countries in landing the biggest crown of her career. She made the country pride as she strutted her way to victory exemplifying grace, beauty and elegance that outshines all the other transgenders who participated in the pageant.

Congratulations, Kevin!

Photo Credits: Totally Cool Pix.com

BROTHER, CRUSH, FRIEND, SEX, LOVE AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

Emotions are practically rolling over me the past few days as 5 people have been in constant interaction with me and all of them form a big part of what I currently feel. Now, I am lost or let's put it into better perspective - lost further.

BROTHER

Being a brother now does not solely relate to relations by blood. Brotherhood now is defined by utter great bond and friendship wherein both parties understand each other and be there always on a non-filial way. Plainly platonic or is it? Maybe it is just a sort of way to hide the real emotions. Or it could be just really a bro. Likeable in most ways but complicated in quite a lot. Puzzled truly I am as sometimes the thin line between brotherhood and romance just seems to vanish into thin air.

CRUSH

From the first time my eyes laid witness to the person, it was plain and utter bliss. Maybe because of the aesthetics - physical attributes that are above par in compared to others. The emotion being felt is much more than a brother but the seemingly good features usually puts one to question if I am for the company only or for the bragging rights of having someone as a trophy. And while clarity as to whether the crush does jump into the "another level" scenario is still vague, the idea of seeing everyday brings utter joy.

FRIEND

A friend really? Or someone waiting for the right time to snag into the situation. The conflicts and complexities make it more mind-buggling. What is the boundary between friendship and relationship? I really don't know. The person being in a current relationship makes me think of the intentions but sometimes the doubts and all are just thrown outside the window. Friendship really or maybe I'm wanting so much more?

SEX

Lust - the plain drive for worldly desires makes me connect with this 4th person. I find joy in exploring territories I have not explored without worrying what happens. Enjoyment and pleasure is the name of the game but as each day pass by, is it really something that could not be developed into something more? But can something that started out from the idea of sex turn into a wonderful fairytale lovestory?

LOVE

Smile in its purest form is what is elicited for every conversation, for every note, for every look and every touch. This may be love or is it? Can i just be trapped into believing that someone could actually give back the emotions I am giving out? Ever since that day when the initial meet-up happened, all I could think of is sharing my life with thy person. Cheesy but true. If falling in love is such a crime then charge me with a million counts.

 

5 different people... bringing spice, conflict and drama.

I need a break...

MOVIE REVIEW: HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA

 

For avid cartoon enthusiasts, you may find Hotel Transylvania all too familiar. Its director after all is Genndy Tartakovsky who is behind such cartoon hits like Samurai Jack and Dexter's Laboratory. Halloween with mixture of love story and comedy sure was one selling point of the film. The combination of these elements were somehow done well to come up with an enjoyable movie experience. And although Sony is still way off the competition with Pixar, Disney and Dreamworks, it showed promise as Hotel Transylvania actually lived to expectations. With a stellar voicing cast that includes Adam Sandler, Selena Gomez, Andy Samberg and CeeLo Green, it was one that surely tickles interest.

 

The film lets us in the lives of Dracula and his wonderful hotel, Transylvania which he solely created for monsters and for the protection of his loving daughter from humans. On his daughter Mavis' 118th birthday, a huge gathering of friends was held that includes Frankenstein, The Mummy, the Werewolves and a whole bunch of monsters. It was planned to be a very good day of celebration not until a surprise visitor drops by the hotel - a human. Meet Jonathan, a free willy guy who then becomes the object of interest of Mavis and the object of headache of Dracula. And the rollercoaster begins. With Dracula's intent to protect his daughter from Jonathan, secrets were revealed and emotional bonds were built.

 

What makes Hotel Transylvania likeable is the fact that it shows real human emotions of fear, happiness, sadness and love. It takes us to a place where we see that trust is vital for us to let our loved ones really explore the world and see the reality by themselves. The movie does that in a very subtle way by injecting comic relief but overall the message was sent across. Sometimes the things we fear the most are the ones that we should not. Brave the reality and then true happiness might be in store. 4 out of 5 popcorns.

JUNE MACASAET BAGS MANHUNT INTERNATIONAL 2012 TITLE

 

June Macasaet of the Philippines finally wins for the country its first ever Manhunt International title. June bested out several contestants from all across the world to land our country its first trophy in 16 years. The pageant was held in Bangkok, Thailand. June has been one of the favorites during pre-pageant and has really made the country proud with this victory.

 

For avid June Macasaet fans, you may recall that he joined this year's Century Tuna Superbods wherein he was a finalist. That did not deter him from pursuing pageants as later this year he grabbed the Manhunt Philippines 2012. Before competing in Bangkok, he was last seen on the runways of SMX Convention Center for the recently concluded Philippine Fashion Week Spring Summer 2013.

EVENT LOOKBACK: MEN'S WEAR COLLECTION PFW SS 2013

Just to give you a teaser of what transpired on the recent Philippine Fashion Week Spring Summer 2013 collection last October held at the SM Mall of Asia SMX Convention Center and Main Atriums, one of the most attended shows was once more the Men;s Wear Collection wherein some of the best designers showcased their wonderful collection of clothes and accessories intended for the homme market. The photo above was the final act for the show and is a teaser of the posts to come in the coming days. Enjoy!

Photo Credits: RedBoi Photography

MOVIE REVIEW: RESIDENT EVIL RETRIBUTION

 

The fifth installment to the Resident Evil franchise, Resident Evil: Retribution started with a lot of promise as it seems to follow through the last film Afterlife which was a good hit. The trailers have tickled my interest making me go out and watch this last film.

 

Alice and her quest to overthrow the Umbrella Corporation is again the main selling point of the film. I have to applaud the film for its wonderful cinematography and visuals. The fight scenes were wicked and the same time keeps you on your seats. Another nice thing about the film is that we get to see returning actors from previous films and also some new ones that were great additions to the franchise.

 

But the 5th RE film somehow disappointed me in one way or another. There seems to be confusion with the entire storyline. I find myself jump from one scene to another and it shows lack of cohesiveness. Further to that, there were long spells of boring parts that made the film dragging thus affecting the whole mood for the story.Over all the film seemed like a commercial boat that is created just to earn dollars. Style over substance. This one's a 3 out of 5 popcorns.

STARBUCKS PLANNERS ARE HERE

 

And this is the time of the year once more when all coffee enthusiasts gather and start collecting stickers for the love of a planner - not just an ordinary planner but a Starbucks Planner at it.

Starting today, November 3,  we can all again line up and collect stickers to get our SBX planners. And man. they look sleek this time around - in 3 colors (black, white and green). I think i'll stick with the black one then perhaps the white and the green. Hahahah! In short, I'm thinking of getting them all. :)

Picture courtesy of Starbucks Philippines Facebook Page (posted last Wednesday)

START OF SOMETHING NEW

 

November - the 11th month of the year and yet it seems my new year has started already. Just after my birthday month of October, November comes in with a lot of promise. Changes are abound and hopes are really high as I jump into this new month. I only wish things would go on as what I expect it to be. Work is going on pretty well but the next few days will prove to be a challenge and at the same time a new adventure. With our re-organization effective today, I can only wish for the best with my new team.

 

I am also gonna move out to a new place this month. I am already starting to pack some of my stuff so that I can have them ready for my move-in. I'll surely miss this place that I have been for the past 3 years or so. But as it goes, not everything lasts forever. We need not be stuck at a single thing because by doing so, we would not be able to see the beauty of the rest of the world. I know it would be difficult specifically with the emotional attachments and all but for sure this move is for the betterment of myself.

 

I am also exploring possibilities with my emotions - trying to brave it out and find that special someone anew. It has been quite a while and I think I am ready to try it out once more. I hope that I could find that one really intended for me. The past few days have been happy and wonderful and I hope things would go on like that. My hopes are that he'll see that he's special and hopefully give me chance to show it more.

November, time for change, time for smiles...

VFORT SOARS TO NEW HEIGHTS

 

The triumvirate of Kristoff, Visam and Kerwin more commonly known as VFort has soared their way to new heights after their "Take Off - The Rev Up Concert last October 6 proving that they are one of the hottest new artists for the year. After the release of their debut album "The Love Concert" with Viva Entertainment last April 2012 they have been on an upward climb already with their career.

 

This concert proved a lot of things and they have really unveiled a fiercer Vfort. First of all, the trio has a different bond with each other. You can see that they do not only have the working relationship established but also their friendship level up. It was actually a marvel to see three different personalities wrapped into one group and jiving really well. Visam seems to be the most free-spirited one and has "FUN" spelled over him which is really nice to watch. There is some mysteriousness with Kristoff that you want to get to know him more as there seems to be depth in his silence. And then you see Kerwin which does not only personify the hunk performer but also someone who is super dedicated on his craft. Collectively they form a good company.

The show was filled with a lot of numbers that showed their influences from Usher to Justin Timberlake to Neyo and Eminem to name a few. Each member did their memorable solos where they showed their vocal prowess and abilities. Kristoff showed off a cool and sassy dapper like image in his performance.Visam was again fun and energetic. Kerwin rewrote all meanings of sexy while providing great music and showing his rapping skills. One of the highlights for me in the show was their rendition of "Kahit Kailan" which brought goosebumps all over SM Center Stage. It was a heartfelt rendition and has shown that Vfort is not just a hot group but indeed a vocally talented one. Their dance remix of their hit "Prinsesa" was also a winner and they have constantly reminded us that they are also good dancers same as they are good singers. Their funny video sample of "Gangnam Style" was just plainly hilarious and was well applauded by their fans.

But i guess their coming of age and growth to the next level was best shown with their newest single, a cover of Pink's "Just Like A Pill". The song showed the vocal range of the guys and it was indeed a well done cover. Plus of course as their teasers have promised, the show really showcased a new Vfort - hotter, edgier, fiercer and of course sexier. Well, avid VFFs already know that they are. To VFort, more success and we your friends will continue supporting.

BLACK PARTY TONIGHT @ MALATE

 

It's that time of the year again when the folks of the LBGT crowd gather once more in the Annual Black Party at Malate. This 2012, it will happen today October 27, 2012 and once more it is a time for merrymaking and fun plus a mix of Halloween Street Party.



MENTORQUE PRODUCTIONS
Present

2012 BLACK PARTY MANILA
The Annual Halloween Street Party

27 OCTOBER 2012 SATURDAY 9:00PM
Orosa corner Nakpil Street, Malate, Manila

The biggest and the ORIGINAL Halloween Street Party!!!!


For UPDATES Like us on FACEBOOK: Mentorque Productions

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mentorque-Productions/118250318253944?ref=ts

Visit: www.mentorqueproductions.tk

JUNE MACASAET WINS MANHUNT PHILIPPINES 2012

 

Batangueno hottie June Macasaet bags the grand title of Manhunt Philippines 2012. He bested the rest of the contestants and is now on great pressure of giving the country it's first ever Manhunt International title. You may recognize June as one of the contestants in the Century Tuna Superbods this year which was won by John Spainhour. I'm a Batangueno and am truly proud of him. Hope he brings pride to our country in the upcoming international pageant.

 

PHILIPPINE FASHION WEEK IS AGAIN ON

 

The Philippine Fashion Week is here once more as it gives us the latest for their Spring-Summer 2013 collection. The shows which runs from October 23-29 at the SM Mall of Asia SMx Convention Halls, Main Atrium and Arena features some of the well-regarded designers and fashion models in the country. Aside from designer shows, this edition is also filled designer brand shows which includes Penshoppe, Lee, Human, Lee Cooper, Mint and Bench.

Enjoy and Happy Fashion Week!

MOVIE REVIEW: THE MISTRESS

 

Another long overdue review but still worth the wait.
One of the most intriguing local films to come the past few weeks was arguably "The Mistress". With anothe ultra-sensitive topic on hand, the film was poised to make headlines and create buzz along the place. "The Mistress" treads a topic that is taboo to most people specifically in a Catholic intensive country as we are. IN here we meet an unassuming character Rosario or Sari (Bea Alonzo) as she is famously known who is a persona of a great lady, a loving sister, a loving granddaughter and a hard-working employee. On top of that "Sari" is a pretty girl with great dreams and good promise. But then the story takes us to a place we never thought could be. The saintly "Sari" turns out to be a mistress, the other woman, a third party.

 

And we thought that was just the complication but it did not stop there. She is a mistress to a relatively old guy who is an esteemed businessman Rico (Ronaldo Valdez) who is happily(?) married to Regina (Hilda Koronel). Adding more conflict is the fact that Rico is a regular client on the shop she's working as a seamstress. If that isn't enough, then there's more. Eric or "JD" (John Lloyd Cruz) enters the scene and was bedazzled by the looks of Sari and made his moves to the young girl. Little did we know that this is starting to be chaos. As worse things could happen, JD turns out to be Rico's son (actually stepson), a produce of Regina's philandering from the past. Now that was so much of a rollercoaster.

 

"The Mistress" was a good acting vehicle for both John Lloyd and Bea and again proves the great acting chops of Ronaldo and Hilda. Under the great helm of director Olivia Lamasan, it was a breath of great maturity for both Lloydie and Bea. They showed that they have matured and have grown in this business that they can do a powerful portrayal as what they have gave in "The Mistress". The story and the twists were commendable. The lines were again catchy and cheesy at times but it works for the audience. What makes me like this film are the realizations between the main characters - in that mistakes do happen but the good thing is people should know to accept them and just tread for the right one moving forward. I admire how strongly the idea of a mistress was tackled in the movie and was more happy that the ending was what I expected it to be. it just goes to show that another wrong could not correct the initial wrong and that sometimes painful choices have to be made for the vast majority's betterment. This one's a winner. 5 out of 5 popcorns.

V-FORT DOES GANGNAM STYLE

V-fort sends sexy to a different level and a fun once it is. The trio of Kerwin, Toff and Visam made their own video of the addictive tune "Gangnam Style". In here they strut their sexy bodies and their great talent for dancing at the same time. Truly one thing to watch out. So here's their funny video that would definitely make you ask for more.

Video from youtube

MOVIE REVIEW: AMOROSA

I have been too busy at work that I have very few posts the past 3 weeks or so. But I would still post my movie reviews for some of the films that I have watched from that span of time and one of which is "Amorosa". Tagged as a "maindie" or mainstream-indie, this film is another one of those horror flicks that tend to move ground in the indie scene.

 

Amorosa looks promising in the trailers as it simply has some scenes that seems like could elicit loud screams or give shrills to the bones that could make one really afraid. Amorosa has a good premise and that is making a choice. The conflict arises when Angel Aquino, the lead character of the film had to make a life-changing choice that involves her 2 sons. I felt how difficult it was as Angel does a splendid job for the role. The conflict could have been heightened if it focused on that premise. But after that the film just simply circumnavigate the old tools and tricks of the Filipino horror family adding a few spins and tricks of the asian genre and borrowing some harrowing realities from foreign pictures. The focus on the relationship and the importance of making choices should have been a good platform for the film to delve upon but it was not thoroughly explored.

Angel Aquino was again stellar in her portrayal but her 2 sons were equally good as well (Enrique Gil and Martin Del Rosario). They provide a mix of youth and feisty nature that bodes well to the younger crowd/audience. Cinematography was also good and the music and background was commendable. Direk Topel Lee has a mild hit on this one. It scares you in some ways that you could never imagine. I felt like there were scenes that really frightened me and made me scream a bit. Not a bad film but definitely with a few tweaks here and there, could have been better. 3.5 out of 5 popcorns.

THANKS FOR ALL THE GREETINGS

It has been 12 days since my birthday and I still can't get over the joy and happiness I felt with your overwhelming greetings of love. I am so happy I had a blast although I was working all week long during my birthday week. As promised to all those who gave their birthday greeting fansigns, here is the collage I have made from all the people who gave their picture greetings. A total of 98 pics from friends, acquaintances, loved ones, crushes and a whole lot more! Whew! I am so much elated. Thanks again to all of you who greeted and shared the moment with me.

ZAC EFRON IN THE PHILIPPINES

(from Penshoppe Official Facebook page)

As part of Penshoppe's commitment to bring big stars in the country, they now bring us the ever gorgeous and charming Zac Efron. I was there to witness the Fan Conference 2012 and what I could say was it was relatively a good one.

Although, at the beginning it was turning out to be a slow program before the front acts did their thing, as the night progressed it was just an event of frenzy. I was surprised how people from different age range are there. Kids and even grandmas are there to have a chance to see Zac Efron up close. I could not get a good pic of him as I was just in the Lower Box portion of SM Arena so no real big pics. (I'm using one I found on the Penshoppe official page)

The front acts did a good job in making the audience entertained from the power voices of "La Diva", to the alternative sounds of "Never The Strangers', the groovy voice of "Jay-R" and the heart-pumping performance of the UP pep squad. But big cheers came as Zac finally gets out of the stage and did a mini catwalk on the ramp. And man, the individual who got her jacket was plain lucky. And a total of roughly 100+ fans get a chance to have some picture taken with Zac on stage.

The interview portion wit Boy Abunda was also so nice and bubbly and shows how down-to-earth a person Zac is. And his smile was just so nice that fans just keep on gushing how cute and hot he is. He is truly a charmer and one that is so nice. Thanks again for Penshoppe and thanks to Zac as well for making his Filipino fans happy.

*only the first pic is from Penshoppe Official Page, the rest are blogger's own.