Category: Movies

Cinema and opera enthusiasts are invited to experience the timeless brilliance of Mozart’s beloved “The Magic Flute,” as Opus and NUSTAR Premier Cinemas present the final leg of CineArt Tuesdays, an exclusive screening series that celebrates world-class artistic performances through the immersive power of cinema.

Showcasing a visually stunning production of Mozart’s final and most celebrated opera, The Magic Flute transports audiences into an enchanted world of adventure, love, and enlightenment. Featuring soaring arias, whimsical characters, one of the most iconic scores in classical music history, the production offers both seasoned opera lovers and curious first-time viewers a rare opportunity to experience the grandeur of opera on the big screen.

Conducted by Marie Jacquot in her Royal Opera debut, this dazzling staging features an exceptional cast led by Lucy Crowe, Amitai Pati, Huw Montague Rendall, Soloman Howard, and acclaimed soprano Kathryn Lewek, who reprises the iconic Queen of the Night role she has performed more than 300 times worldwide.

Tickets are priced at PHP 900, offering audiences an intimate, front-row theatrical experience within the luxurious setting of Opus Premiere Cinemas and NUSTAR Premiere Cinemas. The exclusive screenings will run for three consecutive Tuesdays from May 26 to June 9, 2026 at Opus in Bridgetowne and NUSTAR Resort and Casino.

Known for redefining the luxury moviegoing experience, Premier Cinemas provide guests with an elevated viewing environment designed to complement the artistry of the world-class production. From state-of-the-art screens, and immersive sound systems, to plush seating, and refined hospitality, audiences can enjoy The Magic Flute in exceptional comfort.

Through CineArt Tuesdays, Opus and NUSTAR Premiere Cinemas continue to champion accessible cultural experiences by bringing globally acclaimed performances closer to Filipino audiences through cinema. Tickets can be purchased online via bit.ly/BookTickets_OpusPremierCinemas or directly at the Opus and NUSTAR Premier Cinema ticket booths.

Don’t miss the chance to experience one of opera’s most beloved masterpieces on the big screen. For updates and screening schedules, follow Opus Premier Cinemas and NUSTAR Premier cinemas on Facebook and Instagram.

Originally intended for a limited release, the documentary film performed well over the weekend—thanks to online buzz.

A deafening encore.

The people have spoken! Due to insistent and persistent public demand, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is extending another week in the cinemas!

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Diane Ventura, the documentary has enjoyed a pretty strong performance over the weekend, fueled by glowing reviews and enthusiastic word-of-mouth.

Ventura expressed her deep gratitude to Eheads fans for their unwavering support.

“The positive response and support have been overwhelming and humbling,” she shared. “I’m filled with so much gratitude. I hope more people get to see the film. I hope it does for them what it did for me. This is not just a music story; it’s our story. This is for all of us.”

Originally planned for a limited release, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is a powerful exploration of how a once-disbanded group of punks came together and provided reprieve to an entire nation while, perhaps unknowingly, embarking on their own journey of healing. Featuring rare footage and never-before-seen interviews, the documentary offers a compelling look at the band’s storied history, struggles, and triumphs.

Adding to the excitement, Eraserheads themselves made a surprise appearance over the weekend, performing live during a sold-out screening at a mall in Quezon City. The legendary Pinoy rock quartet surprised an unsuspecting audience with timeless anthems from their Greatest Hits catalogue, including “Superproxy,” “Combo on the Run,” “Alapaap,” “Spoliarium,” “Pare Ko,” and “Magasin.”

Ely Buendia also visited another cinema last Sunday to thank the public for showing up to the theaters and supporting the docu film.

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is presented by DVent Pictures and WEU, and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. Check with your local cinemas for ticket availability and screening schedules.

Mark your calendars! Eraserheads: Combo on the Run will have a special three-day screening in cinemas nationwide from March 21 to 23.

Directed by the internationally-acclaimed filmmaker Diane Ventura and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, the documentary film promises to give the audience an introspective look at the legendary OPM band, taking them through their humble origins, their enigmatic break-up, and their historic reunion.

In the “no-holds-barred depiction of their story”, Ely Buendia, Buddy Zabala, Marcus Adoro, and Raimund Marasigan will tell their personal stories about the band, shedding light on the mysteries that have shrouded their history for the longest time.

After drawing in a 75,000-strong crowd at the SMDC Festival Grounds in December 2022 for their reunion concert Ang Huling El Bimbo, the Eraserheads established that they are indeed living legends. Shortly after, they successfully embarked on a world tour, including stops in the U.S., Dubai, Qatar, Australia, and Singapore.

A lot of preparation and hard work came for this movie to come to fruition, and Director Dianne Ventura wanted to make it as special as possible. The crew shot in the Philippines and in the US during the band’s world tour. “We did the sound design in Berlin, and then Dolby Atmos in L.A., the same sound stage where they did Taylor Swift, Beyonce, the soundtrack of Dune because I felt that their music deserves to be heard in its optimum quality.”

When it comes to authenticity, she also promises to present the truth. “This is a no-holds-barred depiction of their story; nothing is swept under the rug,” Director Dianne Ventura said.

This is seconded by the Eheads frontman himself: “I really loved the movie, the honesty of the guys, and the way that it unflinchingly offered up the truth. That’s one thing I hold dear – whether in my music or my life – is being authentic. This is as authentic as the Eraserheads can get.”

Ely Buendia explained that each one of them was interviewed separately, and when they watched the snippets together later on, he realized that it was the first time that he heard some of his bandmates’ sentiments. “It took me on a journey. Even for someone who was in the situation, it was still a surprise for me,” he said. “This is about growth. I learned a lot about myself.”

When asked as to how it felt about sharing their sides in the story, Ely responded with a smile, “This isn’t our first reconciliation. We’ve all gotten pretty good at it. I see the efforts of everyone to move forward in a more optimistic light. It’s a far cry from 30 years ago.”

Moving forward, one vital question remains: Will Eraserheads be making new music together again?

“I think, again, it all boils down to timing. Of course, we are all very active in making our own music for our own projects,” Ely responded. “The analogy here is if you meet up with your ex, is it a good idea to sleep with them again? There’s so much baggage. It might be enjoyable, but we also have to think about the consequences. I don’t mean to be serious, but there are a lot of considerations. It would be nice if the timing is right and if we feel that we can still do something we can be proud of.”

Francis Lumen, president of WEU Event Management Services and co-producer of their Eheads’ tour, meanwhile, said on a hopeful note, “the film would inspire more interest and sana magkaroon ulit sila ng concert!”

For sure, this movie is a must-watch for long-time Eraserheads fans and music enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss Eraserheads: Combo on the Run in cinemas nationwide from March 21 to 23. Lucky fans might even get the chance to watch the band perform in front of them as they are set to appear in a yet undisclosed theater.

By Sandra Mae Laureano

Exclusive live performance of the Eraserheads to take place at a “mystery” cinema during opening weekend.

As a special treat for both music and movie fans, the Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will be hosting a surprise Pop-Up Performance Lottery, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a lucky audience. From March 21-23, 2025, the iconic band will visit an unsuspecting cinema and perform during the weekend theatrical run of the highly anticipated documentary.

Producer and filmmaker Maria Diane Ventura shares that the exact location and time of the surprise performance will remain a mystery. “It’s a lottery, after all,” she explains. “The thrill lies in the unpredictability: it could take place at any theater, at any moment, and not even I have the slightest clue. What we can promise, however, is that these lucky ticket holders will have the rare opportunity to see the Eraserheads in such an intimate setting. It’s a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Ventura further explains that the pop-up performance aims to reignite the magic of movie-going at a time when streaming has overtaken traditional movie-watching.

“I think some movies are meant to be experienced in the cinema, shares Ventura. “And I feel Combo on the Run is one of those films. It’s in Dolby Atmos, a technology that lets the fans hear the Eraserheads’ music in a way they’ve never had.”

“Imagine having the band playing right after just watching their film. That would definitely heighten the audio-visual film experience. I’m excited for the lucky viewers that get to have that chance for such an immersive treat for the senses.”

The band’s idea for a pop-up performance was born from their desire to connect with fans in a fresh and unique way. “This is entirely their concept, and it’s original, fresh, and unprecedented,” Ventura adds. “There’s really nothing like it out there. It’s an extraordinary way for fans to experience the band’s story and music in a new, exciting context.”

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run provides an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the Huling El Bimbo reunion concert in 2022, set against a backdrop of political division and post-pandemic uncertainty.

Featuring rare footage and never-before-seen interviews, the documentary offers a deep dive into the band’s history, struggles, and triumphs. With its compelling narrative and intimate portrayal of the band, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is already being hailed as one of 2025’s most important films by both film critics and pop culture pundits.

Ventura, who served as producer and filmmaker, describes the film as a careful and balanced depiction of the band’s complexity. She reveals, “I don’t want to give too much away. Suffice it to say, the film will speak for itself.”

Despite the scrutiny the band members have faced over the years, Ventura remains committed to presenting an honest portrayal. According to Ventura, the film aims to present a candid and honest portrayal of their story. “What the fans can expect is that nothing is swept under the rug. Everything is explored. This is a documentary, and I’m honoring the truth. My priority is the story. It’s anyway the only way I can truly honor the trust given to me in sharing themselves. I’m not one to pander to anyone’s approval. I’m here to seek the truth and bring to light things unsaid.”

The filmmaker emphasizes that the film is ultimately about growth, redemption, and self-reflection. “I have no doubt about the legacy of the band. Objectively, they are the best musicians in the country; they changed the game. They’re the only artists I know whose work is able to transcend differences and capture such a diverse audience. Their legacy is undeniable. Their untold story, on the other hand, and their fascinating, intriguing dynamic, personalities and humanity are what this film really is about. The highs and the lows, the triumphs and mistakes, I think this is what would really resonate with the audience. We can all relate to being human.”

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is brought to you by Dvent Pictures and WEU and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. It will be the first Philippine documentary to be screened in Dolby Atmos, providing the most immersive sound experience available today.

The documentary will be screening nationwide for a limited time, from March 21 to 23, 2025.

Maria Diane Ventura’s documentary feature film provides an unflinching portrait of the country’s most successful band of all time.

It’s official: Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will hit theaters nationwide for one weekend only, from March 21-23, 2025.

The highly anticipated film delves deep into the heart and soul of a band that defined a generation. It exclusively shares the untold story of their painful breakup and the difficult but necessary challenges they had to face to get back on stage for their historic reunion in 2022, at a time when the country was grappling with political division and uncertainties.

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run offers an insightful exploration of how a group of once-disbanded punks came together and provided reprieve to an entire nation while, perhaps unknowingly, embarking on a journey of healing themselves.

Producer and filmmaker Maria Diane Ventura, who spearheaded the cinematic project believes that the film is much more than a portrayal of a band’s breakup and the proverbial clash of egos. It’s an important piece of work that captures the band’s unflinching honesty and untold story behind the curtains, giving viewers an incredible sense of why they mattered and still do up to this day. “This is a comprehensive deconstruction of the band’s mythology, humanity, complex relationship and the lasting mark they left on Filipino culture—one that transcends generations and differences,” Ventura shares.

Ventura, known for her acclaimed and award-winning body of work in film and music, highlights the vulnerability of the band members throughout the process. “Notorious for their guarded aloofness, I’m incredibly lucky and grateful to have witnessed these men allowing themselves to open up in ways people have never seen them,” she recalls. “Their candidness and forthright honesty were a gift. It wasn’t just cathartic for them; it was transformative for me as a filmmaker and audience member. It gave me permission to reflect on my own truths, and I hope it does the same for others.”

The journey to complete Eraserheads: Combo On The Run was far from easy. Ventura admits the process was grueling, both physically and emotionally. “Each interview revealed new layers and complexities, which found us constantly reframing to deepen the narrative. Documentaries are a different animal, and I have tremendous respect for documentary filmmakers. It’s such a wild and unpredictable ride because it could go a million different ways. We’ve had over 30 reshoots over two years and 58 versions with the help of 4 editors. I’ve been so lucky to have had guidance from great friends, filmmakers and the band. If it weren’t for Ely Buendia, Francis Lumen, and the support and help of so many like Warner, WEU, Voyage Studios, and Offshore, I don’t think I could have finished this. This would probably be my first and last documentary. An exception only for the Eraserheads, who I owe my career trajectory to and who, objectively, I think is the greatest Philippine artist, with Ely as the best songwriter of all time. This was my way of thanking them by upholding their legacy.”

About the filmmaker

Maria Diane Ventura is a Filipino-American producer, writer, and director known for her thought-provoking films that garnered critical acclaim in the international festival circuitry. Her mind-bending TheRapist earned a spot in several ‘best short films’ of Asia lists, and 2014’s Awaken, an exploration of dream states and altered consciousness, won her the Best Director award at the International Film Festival Manhattan. Her most recent project, the German film Deine Farbe (Your Color), bagged more than 22 awards from film festivals across Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America and is now on Amazon Prime.

About the film

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run provides an exclusive, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the 2022 staging of the Huling El Bimbo reunion concert, featuring rare footage and never-before-seen interviews that reveal intimate details about the band.

The upcoming documentary feature is considered one of the most important films of 2025 by both film critics and pop culture pundits and is set to premiere in theaters nationwide, starting March 21, 2025.

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is brought to you by Dvent Pictures and WEU and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.

The interview sessions with the duo, including the teaser posted by Walt Disney, have amassed more than 21 million views so far.

Ben&Ben’s Miguel Benjamin and Paolo Benjamin recently had the privilege of interviewing the cast and director of Disney’s latest musical drama, Mufasa: The Lion King.

The two band vocalists from the popular Filipino band were asked by Disney Philippines to get up close and personal with some of the most notable figures behind the film, including director Barry Jenkins and composer Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Miguel and Paolo were able to interview Jenkins, who is known for his acclaimed works such as Moonlight and If Beale Street Could Talk. They also met Miranda, the award-winning composer behind the film’s music, who shared his creative process for making songs for a story as monumental as Mufasa: The Lion King.

Miranda offered a glimpse into his songwriting approach, explaining, “You just have to honor those impulses. Kind of like—you have these assignments, and you daydream, and you think about stuff, and you listen to stuff, until you have this sort of alchemy.” His words not only highlighted the magic behind the music but also underscored the collaborative spirit of the film.

For the Benjamin brothers, the opportunity was not just a professional milestone but a deeply personal one. Both twins grew up with a close bond that reflects the sibling dynamics explored in the movie.
In addition to speaking with the filmmakers, Miguel and Paolo interviewed the cast members, including Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Tiffany Boone, who voice key characters in the film. The atmosphere was light-hearted and engaging, with Kelvin Harrison Jr. even prompting the duo to sing a few lines from their hit song “Leaves.” The impromptu performance left everyone in the room delighted.

The interview came at a busy time for Ben&Ben, who were in the middle of rehearsals for their sold-out concert, The Traveller Across Dimensions. However, when the opportunity to interview the Mufasa team came through, the duo didn’t hesitate. “We felt we could relate well to the theme of brotherhood portrayed in the film because of the fact that we’re twins and we grew up really close to each other, much like Mufasa and Taka,” shared Miguel Benjamin. “Also, the fact that the film involved such great storytellers in it, both in film and music, made it an opportunity of a lifetime.”

Paolo echoed his brother’s sentiments, reflecting on the honor of interviewing the Mufasa team and representing the Philippines. “We felt that representing our country in a special interview such as this was a big task to fulfill, but we tried to give it our best by coming up with questions that would allow the cast and the directors the freedom to be just themselves while sharing more about the film, their insights, and their memorable experiences working on it. What we noticed the most, though, is how bonded the entire team behind the film is. It’s like they’re family already.”

The interview sessions quickly became a viral sensation, amassing over 5 million views across social media platforms in less than a day. This does not include the interview teaser with Miguel and Paolo six days ago on Walt Disney’s Facebook page, which has already garnered nearly 16 million views to date.

Mufasa: The Lion King blends live-action filmmaking techniques with photorealistic computer-generated imagery. Directed by Barry Jenkins, produced by Adele Romanski and Mark Ceryak, and executive produced by Peter Tobyansen, the film promises to captivate audiences with its heartfelt storytelling and unforgettable soundtrack, featuring songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda. As the holiday season approaches, Mufasa: The Lion King is sure to be a cinematic experience to remember.

Mufasa: The Lion King is out now in all Philippine cinemas nationwide via Walt Disney Pictures.