(UPDATE) #EXO: SM Entertainment Sues Tao For Illegal Chinese Entertainment Activities

SM Entertainment is putting its foot down and suing Tao to prevent him from carrying out his entertainment activities in China.

The Korean entertainment powerhouse struck back with a lawsuit against their previous artiste Tao, who earlier started the official legal process to end his exclusive contract with them and quit EXO.

Tao unofficially left the group in May as he was reported to have flown to United States to study and to receive treatment for his injuries. In June 2015, he returned to China and set up a personal studio for his future solo activities. He then made his solo debut with his first mini album titled “T.A.O”.

Following his solo debut in China, SM decided to file a lawsuit against Tao for carrying out illegal Chinese entertainment activities.

This is similar to their previous cases with Wu Yi Fan (formerly known as Kris) and Luhan, who left EXO-M in February and July of last year respectively to pursue their own individual activities in China.

SM Entertainment submitted the lawsuit to Beijing courts on 18th September (Friday).

“In order to protect (SM) and EXO’s rights and interests from Tao’s continued illegal activities, and to prevent well-intentioned companies from getting involved in said illegal activities, we’d like to state the following,” said SM Entertainment.

In April of 2015, Tao was already working with another company to create his own album, and he left SM and his team without permission. Moreover, in July of the same year, he released a mini album and continued to engage in illegal solo entertainment activities. While using what he gained with EXO to his advantage, appearing in advertisements, broadcasts, etc., he suddenly sued SM Entertainment on August 24, 2015.

SM added, “Until a final verdict has been reached, Tao is required to stay true to the obligations and duties outlined by his contract, and he cannot carry out (other) entertainment activities.”

SM mentioned that various organisations in China, including the Publishers’ Association of China, have concluded that from the aspect of workplace ethics, “the contract must be respected, and one should not engage in actions affecting the faith and order of the industry”.

(Wu Yi Fan), Luhan, and Tao are not respecting their contracts.

“Rather than faith, they are pursuing immediate monetary profit, unilaterally trying to back out of their exclusive contracts, in what is clearly a breach of the original contract terms. They are negatively affecting the promotion of cultural exchange and cooperation between Korea and China in the private sector, and are affecting well-intentioned third parties, as well,” they added.

What do you think of the lawsuit against Tao? Do you think it’s right for them do that? Share your thoughts in the comments box below.

Things are starting to get real intense as Tao and the Chinese label that assisted in launching his album claim that SM Entertainment is attempting to manipulate media with their lawsuit against their former artiste.

They added by saying that while Tao’s attempt to amend the situation, the Korean entertainment giant attempted to manipulate the media with their exaggerated truths. Tao posted his statement regarding the lawsuit via his workshop on 23rd September.

“The explanation that SM released was full of falsehoods, so we are releasing the following statement in order to make the truth known and protect Tao’s honor.

“1. After Tao and SM signed an exclusive contract, the agency was negligent in their guarantee of basic living needs, and throughout his time promoting [in Korea], Tao put off treatment for the scars he received. In addition, there were a lot of issues, not excluding discrimination of Chinese artists, which led to severe mental and physical stress on Tao. Even in this situation, Tao stayed with SM and openly expressed his displeasure with the unfair treatment, hoping for improvement. However, SM did not do anything. When Tao returned with an injury and was receiving treatment, he and his father attempted to negotiate with SM over eight times, but were met each time with a harsh proposal from SM, who said that they could not change the contract. You can plainly see SM’s insincere attitude and lack of respect for Tao.

“Because of this, Tao filed a lawsuit against SM to end his contract, submitted on August 24 of 2015. After continued tolerance of the above actions [of SM], Tao couldn’t take it in the end and sued.

“2. SM’s statement contains exaggerated truths. Taking Tao’s lawsuit and expanding it into an issue of cultural relations between Korea and China is [SM’s] method of attempting to ruin Tao’s future entertainment activities. We find this quite regrettable. Third parties cannot intervene in Tao and SM’s legal battle and it will bring no results. SM’s abuse of the legal process isn’t any help in resolving this issue. Moreover, according to stipulations outlined in the exclusive contract, any legal disagreements between Tao and SM must be dealt with in Korea, and SM’s lawsuit in China is not in accord with those stipulations.

“We are releasing the above explanation in order to block SM’s attempt at media manipulation. In the case of any future statements attempting to defame Tao, we will take legal action to protect our rights.”

What do you think about Tao’s statement regarding SM’s lawsuit? Which side are you on? Share your thoughts in the comments box below.

*PS: Thanks Twitter user @hanulyi for the tip.

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John Mayer & Katy Perry Split!

Here comes another break up to add to the trail of John Mayer’s break ups. Most of you might already know by now that he’s notorious for being non-committed (read: Jessica Simpson, Taylor Swift, Minka Kelly). Word has it that he has broken up with Katy Perry – again. Huh? They’ve broken up previously?

Strangely, there were no hints that their relationship was on the rocks. In fact, Katy Perry was probably the most lovey-dovey of all his relationships (that we know of).  Furthermore, this piece of news is coming just weeks after Katy was spotted wearing a heart-shaped ring on “that” finger.

A friend of John and Katy was the first to tell Us Weekly about the split. Another source also jumped in to tell the magazine, “It’s not over until it’s over. You have to see how things play out. She’s leaving the window open. They have both been so focused on work”.


Avengers 4: Leaked Photo Of Pepper Potts Reveals Spoiler

The yet-untitled “Avengers 4” is currently making headlines due to a newly-leaked behind-the-scenes photo. We have Gwyneth Paltrow to thank for that.

The Oscar-winning actress will be reprising her role in “Avengers 4” as Pepper Potts. In addition, her character will also have a new superhero identity: Rescue. This further confirms previous rumours that Pepper Potts will be donning her own suit of armour.

The image shows Paltrow in full selfie mode while donning a motion capture suit. In the close-up photo, the actress is seen in a high-neck suit with her blonde hair pulled back, posing in front of a green screen. Its colours are purple and silver with a few blank spots in sight (such as the chest plate where an energy source would be). It’s safe to assume that it’ll be covered up with CGI.

Unlike the original design in the comics, the Rescue armour isn’t the red and silver colour scheme. Instead, it matches the colour scheme of the Rescue toy that recently leaked. We don’t know yet if Pepper getting her own Iron Woman moment as Rescue is a one-time-only thing. However, Tony Stark is expected to bow out at the end of Phase 3. This would open up new slots for recurring characters to don a robot suit.

As you may know, Marvel Studios is very tight-lipped about their movie plots. Cast and crew are prohibited from taking photos and videos unless they’ve been authorised by the studio. Since Paltrow didn’t leaked the selfie herself, fans are speculating that she sent it to someone. Somehow, that image got circulated around before going viral on the internet.

Paltrow is one of the few actors who have been in the Marvel Cinematic Universe since the very beginning. It’s about damn time they gave her character a suit of her own. Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige also teased that the majority of superheroes in the MCU moving forward would soon be females.

Are y’all excited to see Pepper wear the Rescue armour in “Avengers 4”?


Netflix’s “Mr Harrington’s Phone” Review: Automated Voicemails Are Scarier Than This Stephen King Film

When it comes to horror fiction, Stephen King stands tall as one of the most prolific storytellers of a generation. His body of work is probably large enough to fill all of Todash Space! The legacy of the man is untouchable… the adaptations of his work though? Well, that’s another story.

Don’t get us wrong, there are definitely moments when studios faithfully bring his vision to glorious life. Films like 2017’s “It”, and Mike Flanagan’s cinematic adaptation of the novels “Doctor Sleep” and “1922” were great! They truly captured the author’s wicked imagination and character voices. That being said, there are some pretty terrible ones of late. “Pet Sematary” and “Into the Tall Grass” were dull and uninspired. One particular film though, to this day has us rolling on the ground with laughter, instead of hiding under our blankets: “Cell”. Phone calls that make people zombies?! Really?

Well, Halloween season is upon us and Netflix has brought us yet another film adaptation of Stephen King’s stories. Will “Mr Harrigan’s Phone” have you chucking your devices away in fear? Is this call worth picking up? Let’s find out!

So the plot of the film is a fairly straightforward one. A rich billionaire in Maine, Mr Harrigan takes an interest in a young boy named Craig when he hears the lad reading in church one day. He pays the boy to read to him due to his failing eyesight and they become close friends over the years. Before Harrigan passes away, Craig gives the old man an iPhone as a token of their friendship. Little does Craig know, Harrigan has no intention of staying silent, especially after his body was buried with his phone. As spooky incidents start happening in Craig’s life, he must now contend with the spirit of an old friend. One who is only ever a phone call away.

Look, look, we know the premise of a haunted smartphone probably has most of you rolling your eyes all the way to the back of your skull. We wanted to give this film a chance and to be honest, there’s some potential here for some real campy fun. Perhaps, writer and director John Lee Hancock could find a fresh angle to explore with this narrative. Unfortunately, the film’s execution further exacerbates its lacklustre premise by taking itself way, way too seriously. It certainly doesn’t help that when Craig flatly delivers corny platitudes about teenage ennui, it’s done through disembodied narration as the film shows time-skip montages. And again, as we’ve mentioned in our review of “To All The Boys: Always And Forever”, you can’t just shove a bunch of montages in a film and call it character development!

The high school drama and Craig’s domestic life seem like half-hearted attempts on the part of the film to inject some relational stakes into our main character’s journey but all it does is pad out the runtime. It hits all the obligatory markers of a troubled teen’s day-to-day but with no real bite or conviction. This film does not need to be an hour and forty minutes long! The film could have merely focused on the relationship between Craig and Mr Harrington, with perhaps one strong supplementary sub-plot to keep the film from being bare.

Right, but here comes the question you’re probably dying to ask: does it at least have some good scares? No. Nada. Zilch.

Despite what the film marketing would have you think, “Mr Harrington’s Phone” isn’t really a horror film. The moments in which the ghost of Harrington strikes and delivers chilling justice to those who have scorned Craig aren’t very exciting. For the most part, they’re done off-screen with Craig either discovering it by text message or newspaper headlines or worse by voiceover montages. Seriously, we think we might have found a more egregious offender than Lara Jean’s last hurrah.

So all we’re left with here is a middling coming-of-age film about an angsty boy who has a murderous ghost friend that can help him out. If you’re looking for a much better version of this, you might as well go searching for “Jujutsu Kaisen 0”. If there’s a sliver of enjoyment that can be found in this film, it’s owed to its talented main cast of two. Jaeden Martell, who played Bill Denbrough in 2017’s “It”, does his best to give the character of Craig some depth as the young student processes both his grief, horror and ambition. Donald Sutherland, who plays President Snow in the “Hunger Games” franchise, unsurprisingly does a great job as the cunning but kind Mr Harrigan. A man who was in his prime a shark but is now finding new joy in connecting with Craig.

When it’s just Martell and Sutherland in the room, there’s great chemistry between the two actors bouncing off each other in an organic flow. That is until the conversation is brought to a stop when Sutherland is forced to mutter some ominous line about showing no mercy. Again, it is the writing and structure of the film that has failed its duo. Mr Harrigan certainly is an interesting character that could have benefited from some proper flashbacks, to truly sell us the notion of this gentle elderly man returning as a deathly spectre.

Netflix’s “Mr Harrigan’s Phone” is about as fun as taking a call from a telemarketer. When it’s not boring you to tears with its dry-wall-flavoured slice-of-life drama, it’s doing less than the bare minimum to thrill you with its lazy attempts at supernatural horror. Despite Jaeden Martell and Donald Sutherland’s valiant efforts to elevate this film, it proves too titanic a task for them. Say what you want about “Cell” but it was at least funny. Martell and Sutherland deserve better. Stephen King deserves better. You deserve better.

If you are looking for something truly bone-chilling to watch, you should check out Mike Flanagan’s “Midnight Mass” on Netflix. Now that’ll give you nightmares!

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Netflix's "Mr Harrigan's Phone" is about as fun as taking a call from a telemarketer. When it's not boring you tears with its dry-wall flavoured slice of life drama, it's doing less than the bare minimum to thrill you with its lazy attempt at supernatural horror. Despite Jaeden Martell and Donald Sutherland's valiant efforts to elevate this film, it proves too titanic a task for them. Say what you want about "Cell" but it was at least funny.


Rapist Defends Marriage To 13-Year-Old Victim

On 28th February, 40-year-old Riduan Masmud was charged with raping a 13-year-old in a parked car. Not only is she underage, Riduan also happens to be a father – of four children, aged between two and 17. He further shocked the nation (after being charged) when he declared that he had married her as a second wife in the midst of the case. Hence, he saw no wrong with having sex with her.

Riduan, a restaurant manager defended his action, saying it was a case of “suka sama suka” (mutual consent), adding that it was acceptable under Syariah law. “There are many cases of men marrying underage girls. I do not see why my case should be any different”, he said. As his rape case came up for mention at a Sessions Court yesterday, Riduan told reporters that he had known the girl for about six months and felt he had the right (to marry an underage girl).

It could not be ascertained whether the girl met Riduan while she was at school or whether she had been working for him. She is from a very poor family.

Riduan said he would let his child-wife finish her studies first and “maybe later take up a cosmetic course with my first wife”, adding that she was a make-up artist. His wife also told the press that she had accepted the teenager to be her husband’s second wife and promised to guide her through her studies.

On 7th May, DPP Ahmad Nazmeen Zulkifli told the court he had no objection for the case to be withdrawn after the girl withdrew the rape report against the man 18th April. It is understood that it was the girl’s aunt who lodged the police report after she found out about the “affair”.

All eyes were on the girl who appeared briefly in court. She has a childlike face, wore some make up, and tied up her long hair in a ponytail. Thin and looking under-developed, she was dressed in a T-shirt and jeans. The girl’s father, who was also at the court, said he accepted his daughter’s marriage to Riduan as they liked each other. “It is best for her that they get married. What else can I do?”, he added.

Counsel Loretto J. Padua informed the court that the Syariah marriage certificates had been presented to the investigating officer and confirmed that the two were now married.

Judge Ummu Khatom gave the Attorney-General’s Chambers until 6th June to make a decision on whether to proceed with the case. The court ordered that the man’s RM8,000 bail be extended till 6th June.


Hype’s Must Watch: #TheHungerGames Mockingjay – Part 2

“My dear Ms. Everdeen, make no mistake, the game is coming to its end.”

Although “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2″ could be the final instalment of “The Hunger Games” film series, it is set to be an epic conclusion to the sci-fi sensation as its first full trailer is so majestic, it sends chills down our spines.

The struggles for all the districts are about to end as Katniss Everdeen (played by Jennifer Lawrence) is ready to take down the Capitol and President Snow (played by Donald Sutherland) with the rebellion she started. Among those who joined her in the fight are her close friends Gale (played by Liam Hemsworth), Peeta (played by Josh Hutcherson), and Finnick (played by Sam Claflin).

However, it seems like the leader of the Capitol has a plan of his own. As seen in the trailer, President Snow has turned the entire city into a massive arena filled with deadly traps. Suffice to say, not everyone will make it out of the arena alive.

With the nation of Panem in a full scale war, Katniss confronts President Snow [Donald Sutherland] in the final showdown. Teamed with a group of her closest friends – including Gale [Liam Hemsworth], Finnick [Sam Claflin] and Peeta [Josh Hutcherson] – Katniss goes off on a mission with the unit from District 13 as they risk their lives to liberate the citizens of Panem, and stage an assassination attempt on President Snow who has become increasingly obsessed with destroying her. The mortal traps, enemies, and moral choices that await Katniss will challenge her more than any arena she faced in The Hunger Games.

Lionsgate has officially released the final trailer for “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2”, which will arrive in theatres next month. As expected, the new trailer contains tonnes of great new action as Katniss and the Rebels take the fight to The Capital.

“The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2″ is scheduled for release on 20th November 2015.

For more information, visit the movie’s official website or follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

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World’s First MUJI Hotels To Debut At These Places In 2018

If you’ve always wanted to sleep in a MUJI showroom, your retail wish is about to become a reality. That’s because the minimalist brand is about to launch its first ever MUJI Hotels early next year.

Known for practical yet stylish household designs, MUJI has not only ventured into restaurant and cafes but the Japanese lifestyle brand will soon be stepping into the hospitality business.

Surprisingly, the first 2 MUJI Hotels will be opening in China instead of Japan. Set to open in Shenzhen on 18th January 2018 and in Beijing on 20th March 2018, Japan’s first MUJI Hotel will only debut the following year, during spring 2019. The 3rd outlet is slated for the upscale Ginza district in Tokyo. It is also currently where the largest MUJI store, MUJI Yurakucho, is situated.

Not much details has been revealed about these highly-anticipated MUJI Hotels, but Business Insider Japan reported that the Shenzhen branch will feature 79 rooms in 5 different layouts. The “anti-gorgeous, anti-cheap concept” will also be furnished with MUJI products – from the toothbrushes to the bed sheets.

“The goal is to offer great sleep at the right price, provide a space supporting both body and mind while away from home, and connect travellers to local people and places,” reads the official press release. While staying in MUJI Hotel, travellers will be given access to the fitness room, conference room, and other hotel facilities on the vicinity. Visitors can also dine in at the restaurant located on the lower levels.

As for Tokyo’s MUJI hotel, a 10-story building is currently in development. The lower 6 levels will be used for retail. The remaining 4 levels will be for the hotel. Just like its China counterparts, the hotel will be decked out in MUJI furnishings that is reflective of its minimalist designs.

You can refer to the news release for more details, or check out MUJI’s website and Facebook page.

Sources: In Habitat, Juice / Featured image: MUJI.


#Christmas: Celebrate Up In The Sky With Malaysia’s First Commercial Hot Air Balloon Ride

When you are a child, there is an undeniable sense of magic to Christmas. But as we get older and wiser, we realise that gifts are meaningless if they can’t be shared with the ones we love.

The best times are those that family and friends experience together and Christmas can be much more than a day spent giving “stuff” to one another. Instead, it can be a fairy-lit dance of memories!

And what better way to share the festivities with family and friends than a magical experience on a hot air balloon?

Greet the stunning sunrise this December, as you float majestically through the clouds. Imagine the scenery below you as the breath-taking vistas of Putrajaya with its picturesque architectural and modern cityscape unfolds before you and the ones you love.

Family and friends will appreciate the gift of a magical voyage of discovery over Putrajaya’s celebrated highlights, experiencing first-hand what it’s like to soar in a graceful hot air balloon and gain an unforgettable bird’s eye view, just a stone’s throw away from the city of Kuala Lumpur.

With the wind plotting your course, each magical flight is unique and one that a loved one and you will surely remember for a lifetime. Passengers are not only greeted with delicious, light refreshments before the flight, but they are also encouraged to get hands-on by helping with the balloon inflation.

Following the flight, with feet firmly on the ground, there is the traditional balloon flier’s toast and a beautifully-set sit-down breakfast at the Cyberview Resort and Spa Hotel in Putrajaya.

Myballoon Adventure, the first company in Malaysia to operate commercial hot air balloon rides, is offering various gift packages starting from RM850 all-year round (not just festive seasons!) which includes a stunning, breathtaking 45-minute to 1-hour balloon flight conducted by their vastly-experienced FAA certified hot air balloon pilots; light pre-flight refreshments; a delicious breakfast line-up post-flight and a completion certificate to top off the wonderful experience.

Be sure to purchase your hot air balloon experience as a gift for family and friends (or even yourself!) as early as possible to avoid disappointment by booking online here.

For more information, visit their Facebook page.

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Netizens Criticise Noraniza Idris For Charging Up To RM1600 For Her Concert Tix

Singer Noraniza Idris will reportedly hold her final concert ever, “Malai Solo”, in October. The concert will take place at Istana Budaya, over the course of three days from October 21 through October 23. The dates and the price of tickets have been made public, and the tickets are already available for purchase.

She also expressed her desire back in May to invite renowned fellow singer, Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza as the concert’s special guest. However, netizens took to Twitter to criticise the price after the announcement.

The tickets price range from RM299 to RM1599. There are some netizens who simply wrote their dissatisfaction regarding the ticket price, while others support the veteran singer.

The netizens justified that the price list is a giving due to the 54-year-old’s high status in the music industry. Noraniza – also known as Kak Ani – had won awards for her spectacular shows that utilise dancers and props. “Why the hate? Watch her old performances on YouTube and reflect,” and “She is one of the best ethnic performers in Malaysia, please support her,” the Twitter users wrote.

Other frustration regarding the price of the tickets can be read such as, “Her (most expensive) ticket costs more than the basic salary,” “Is she going to hire a whole village of dancers?,” “Her opening act is Lady Gaga, that’s why it’s expensive,” and “I would only pay such a price for Siti Nurhaliza and M. Nasir.” There are also a few others who compared her to Billie Eilish, an American singer-songwriter who recently performed in Malaysia.

Considering “Malai Solo” concert is going to be Noraniza’s last ever, whoever can afford the tickets are entitled to decide for themselves. Regardless, keep supporting our local artists.

Anis Sharina contributed to this article.


#MagicForAll: Uniqlo Malaysia Launches The New “Star Wars” UT Collection

We promised that we’ll let you know when we know, and we’re keeping that promise ;)

Jedis and Padawans, the time has come. As part of Uniqlo’s global collaboration with Disney Consumer Products, Uniqlo Malaysia has just today (Friday, 20th November) released the new “Star Wars” range off the “Magic For All” collection.

We don’t know about you but we’ve been anxiously waiting for this day since we saw the full range at the “Magic For All” launch in Shanghai in September this year.

The newly launched Uniqlo x “Star Wars” swag has been made available exclusively via Uniqlo Malaysia’s online store. It will also arrive in Uniqlo Malaysia’s physical stores come 27th November (Friday).

Amongst the items currently available online are such as:

View the full range via Uniqlo Malaysia’s online store. There are more to come this December! Don’t wait, peeps. Get your hands on ’em Uniqlo x “Star Wars” items now :)

*Availability of “Magic For All” items will vary from store to store with the large stores (One Utama, Midvalley Megamall, Fahrenheit 88, and IOI City Mall) carrying the most variety.

Meanwhile, feast your eyes on the “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” trailer:

For more information, hit up Uniqlo Malaysia’s website.

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#WWEKualaLumpur: WWE® Returns to Malaysia

WWE and Astro are excited to announce today that WWE LIVE™ will return to Malaysia for the first time since 2002, with two shows in October 2014. Fans will be able to see their favorite WWE Superstars® live, including:

WWE’s robust programming in Malaysia includes Monday Night Raw®, AfterBurn™, Vintage™, BottomLine™, NXT™, Superstars™, Main Event™ and WWE Presents™ airing on Astro SuperSport 3 channel, and all Pay-Per-View titles on Astro Box Office Sport channel. WWE LIVE is supported by Malaysia Major Events, a division of Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau, an agency under Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism and Culture.

“WWE Live is expected to draw tourists from the South East Asia region with an estimated tourist expenditure of close to RM33 million over the two days. WWE has always been one of the favourite entertainment programmes in the region and Malaysia since it was introduced on television. Malaysia is proud to host WWE Live, adding to the roll call of many distinguished events that coincide with Visit Malaysia Year 2014,” said Tony Nagamaiah, General Manager, Malaysia Major Events.

Date: 10th & 11th October (Friday & Saturday)

Tickets will go on sale 31st May (Saturday) at 10am via TicketPro.


Miley Cyrus “Bangerz” Giveaway!

Miley Cyrus’ infamous twerking on stage at the VMAs, her racy photo shoot with Terry Richardson and feud with Sinead O’Connor amongst other things made her one of 2013’s most talked about person.

Despite being a complete ratchet in 2013, Miley never shied off her talent, which is of course singing. The blond tatted up singer released her fourth studio album Bangerz last October and has received some positive reviews for it! Featuring 13 tracks in total,  ome of the hits from the album includes, Wrecking Ball and We Can’t Stop.

1. “Adore You” – 4:38 *
2. “We Can’t Stop” – 3:51 *
3. “SMS (Bangerz)” Feat. Britney Spears – 2:49
4. “4×4″ Feat. Nelly – 3:11
5. “My Darlin’” Feat. Future – 4:03 *
6. “Wrecking Ball” – 3:41 *
7. “Love Money Party” Feat. Big Sean – 3:39
8. “#Getitright” – 4:24
9. “Drive” – 4:15 *
10. “FU” Feat. French Montana – 3:51 *
11. “Do My Thang” – 3:45 *
12. “Maybe You’re Right” – 3:33
13. “Someone Else” – 4:48

This week, thanks to Sony Music Malaysia, Hype.My is giving away 5 copies of Bangerz! Here’s what you got to do to win a copy:

a) Name 3 artist that are featured on Bangerz.

b) How many songs are there on the album?

2. Like us on Facebook and Twitter. Share the link to this article on your social media platforms and don’t forget to tag us @hypemy

3. Email your answers, and your personal details (Name, phone number, IC Number) to bryna@hype.my.

This contest will end on Monday, January 27th, 2014. The winner will be contacted directly by the Hype.My team.

-The judges’ decision is final. Winners will be contacted directly via email.
-Winners of this giveaway will have to pick the prize up from our office in Mid Valley. We will not be posting out the prize.


APINK To Finally Make Their Long-Awaited Comeback In July

It’s almost been a year since APINK dropped their last official album.

This July, Pink Pandas (as fans of APINK are known) will have reason to celebrate as the girls will finally be making their comeback.

Just today (Thursday, 14th June), their label confirmed that the girls will drop new music next month. They have also finished the filming for their music video. Plan A Entertainment said, “APINK is preparing for their comeback with the goal of returning in the first week of July. They recently wrapped up filming for their music video and are currently going over necessary details before their comeback.”

According to a source from their agency, the girls will be trying something new for their upcoming concept. This will be APINK’s first comeback since the release of “Pink UP” in June last year. Although, they dropped a special single in April to celebrate their 7th anniversary, they did not do the usual promo runs for it.

For more details on the group, visit their official website and Facebook page.

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#2NE1: Idol Girl Group Secretly Produces Final Song & MV – “Good Bye” (굿바이)

YG Entertainment’s K-Pop idol girl group of 7 years, 2NE1 (투애니원) may have officially disbanded back in November last year, but Blackjacks (as 2NE1’s fans are lovingly known) are keeping the memory of them alive via their music.

Well, fans, wipe them tears because you’re in for a treat – albeit just a tad bittersweet.

There are now reports that girls of 2NE1 will be officially saying their farewells to Blackjacks with their final release, a song aptly titled “Good Bye” (굿바이). Just today (Thursday, 5th January), South Korean entertainment powerhouse YG Entertainment announced, “The members of 2NE1 were sad that they weren’t able to say their final goodbyes to fans after their sudden disbandment, so they’ve come together for one last song.”

“2NE1 was much-loved, not just in Korea, but all around the world, and they will be saying their official last goodbyes through this upcoming song,” they added.

The surprise announcement was also echoed by multiple entertainment outlets on social media.

2NE1 to say 'Good Bye' with final trackhttps://t.co/5dpJgYLzXR pic.twitter.com/v9gdVpZG9T

#YGE: "This is a good bye gift for fans as #2NE1 can't give their last greeting due to sudden disbandment" #KoreanUpdates VF https://t.co/YCiKUd0TUx

— KoreanUpdates! (@KoreanUpdates) January 5, 2017

2NE1 (sans Minzy, who left the group in April 2016) reportedly reunited in secret to complete recording for “Good Bye” and filmed a music video for the song overseas. The production wrapped on 3rd January 2017.

“Good Bye” will be released on 21st January 2017 along with the music video.

If you’re feeling all sorts of feels right now, Blackjacks, you’re not alone. But perhaps this will be the perfect send-off for the group that was so loved by all for 7 years. And for what it’s worth, “Nolza!”

Source: Girl Group Zone!, Korean Updates, akp. / Featured image: YG Entertainment.


Hype’s Exclusive: Back-To-Basics In 5 Questions With Wong Fu Productions

Wong Fu Productions have been to Kuala Lumpur so many times, it’s hard to fathom what’s stopping anyone from giving them a Malaysian PR status yet. Oddly, between their first and second visit to Malaysia, we didn’t hear or see a peep of Philip Wang and Wesley Chan for 2 whole years. All of a sudden, we’re seeing them twice in the span of 6 months – what?!

In case you missed it, Phil and Wes were in town in December last year as part of Hotlink’s inaugural OHHSOME fest, said to be “Malaysia’s biggest social media festival”. If you missed OOHSOME fest, we’ve got an exclusive interview with them here.

But I digress! As you might’ve already heard, they were back in Kuala Lumpur over the #ReachOut2015 weekend. If you missed both the OHHSOME fest as well as the #ReachOut2015 event, what..why?

I managed to get them to take a little time off their busy schedules to sit down for a quick interview! I’ll be honest and say that before I even started asking my questions, Wes quipped, “I have a question, I have a question! My question is, at this point, what don’t you know about us?”

Here’s what else went down during my back-to-basics in 5 questions exclusive interview with Wong Fu Productions:

Since its inception back in 2010, Wong Fu Weekends have covered various topics. 5 years on, how do you guys go about choosing topics to feature or things to do?

Wes: So, Wong Fu Weekends is kind of a mystery to us too because we thought the fans would want certain things like really fun and different experiences, right? And not everyday life sort of things? We did stuff like driving tanks or we went to these really wacky museums..

Wes: And then it seemed like that the ones that were doing well were actually..the very normal everyday things.

Phil: Like grocery shopping and eating ramen (laughs).

Wes: And doing laundry! Like these things were the things that they actually wanted to see. So when we came back with a new season that contained more of that everyday kind of material, it’s not like that did any better either. Maybe we’re just not as entertaining anymore, I don’t know. We’ve been trying to figure out and gauge what the audience wants and I think they do want just to see us as normal people.

I know that picking a favourite out of all your videos would be like picking favourite children so, what if you could pick a video you could fix? Which one would it be?

Phil: I feel like if I don’t remember it, there has to be a reason why!

Phil: I think some of our projects, like, I wouldn’t say that I would want to go back and fix them but it’s more like, I would want to update them. Even like “Nice Guy”, you know, now that we’re 8 years older, I have a different take on that. And I know that..that message from the video is still going out because people are still watching it. It’s not that I disagree with the message but personally, I haven’t updated it so that piece is not as reflective of what or how I feel now.

Wes: I think there are some videos that are misunderstood like the one that I did in London, “A World Away”. I spent a lot of time and energy working on that one and it was very different and I understand that but..maybe to address some of the things that people didn’t understand, maybe I’d want to do that. But at the same time, I’m proud of what it is now so maybe I don’t need to do that, right? One of the worst things I don’t like feeling is being misunderstood and not being able to explain myself – I hate that.

And what do you wish your subscribers knew about what you do?

Phil: Sometimes I’ll read comments and then when a comment says, “I really respect the type of videos that you guys make and the quality of your stories, that’s what makes you guys stand out..out of all of YouTube”, I’m like..I’m glad you get it. I’m glad that you see that we’re different in that sense. It’s not a better or worse thing – it’s just what sets us apart. And so..I wish more people knew that and I think it’s hard because YouTube is becoming younger and younger..we’re not going to be as visible or as funny to say..an 8-year-old who just wants to watch people getting hit in the crotch or whatever. I appreciate when we have more mature audiences that really appreciate what we do.

Wes: If the subscribers knew how many people we’re trying to satisfy at one time, I think that’d answer a lot of questions in terms of like, “Why are you guys doing this?” or “Why haven’t you made this video yet?”. Look at the response that we’re getting or the demands that we’re getting for different content..we’re trying to get to all of them you know, for the most part. But unless if you’re on our side of things, you don’t know what that feels like. We really do want to..first, we want to satisfy what the fans want but also our own creative desires and challenges because we want to keep growing too.

10 years on, how has being part of Wong Fu Productions changed you individually?

Phil: That’s going to be a looong answer.

Wes: I think..I definitely thought about things that I never thought I would..let me think about this one!

Phil: I think it has given me a much better perspective of the consumer world because we’re creators that are creating a product or content for the masses to enjoy..and hate. When I’m on the other end as a consumer, looking at a new product or a new movie or a new song, I’m a lot more lenient I guess because I now know that it took a lot of work and there was probably a lot of thought that went behind their decisions. It’s very easy for me to make quick judgements but it’s not fair. I’ve become a lot more open to a lot of different kinds of art. I’ve become a better consumer by being a creator. And obviously things like traveling the world, that’s something that I’m very grateful Wong Fu Productons have allowed us to do. I never would’ve thought that I would’ve been to Malaysia 4 times now, that’s crazy!

If you could go back in time to sometime in 2004, what would you tell you younger self?

Wes: I’d say..I’d say, “Get ready” (laughs)

Phil: Yeah I was thinking the same (laughs) like, “You are NOT ready for this!”

Wes: But then again at the same time, that sounds very foreboding. I’d say it in a fun way like, “You have NOOO idea..”

Phil: I wouldn’t say anything to warn or want to change something. Like, everything that has happened..happened exactly the way I would’ve wanted them to happen. And if it weren’t for those things, we wouldn’t be where we are today. So I wouldn’t go back and say, “Hey, don’t do this!” or “Hey, you shouldn’t do that!”. I’d say, “Just do what you’re gonna do and enjoy it!”

Phil: Cool. Thanks for always looking out for us!

For more information, visit Wong Fu Productions’ website or Facebook page. Don’t forget to subscribe to their channel!

(Featured image from 1M4Youth’s Instagram)

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Samsung GALAXY Y Hello Kitty: Meowr!

Samsung Malaysia Electronics, a leading global mobile phone provider, held an exclusive VIP party in conjunction with the Samsung GALAXY Y Hello Kitty Limited Edition smartphone. Themed “Celebrating BFFs” (Best Friends Forever), the event had crowds of friends coming together to celebrate their friendship in an occasion to remember.

The Samsung GALAXY Y Hello Kitty Limited Edition is an extension of the original GALAXY Y model. This device comes with a bundle of new features such as its customised Hello Kitty user interface which allows users a different and exciting experience from its predecessor, the GALAXY Y.

Furthermore, the customised Hello Kitty ringtone and wallpaper will give an extra dimension to users of the GALAXY Y Hello Kitty Limited Edition. They will be reminded of their BFFs who are using the same device, anytime they receive a phone call or anytime their home screen pops up.

More than just a run-of-the-mill device event, there were plenty of attractions on hand to build an atmosphere fitting for its crowd of female teenagers. In the various experiential zones, fans indulged themselves in a manicure makeover, while some tried the airbrush tattoo booth.

Alongside, there was a “Best Dressed Competition” for everyone at the event whereby the five most creative costumes inspired by the device were rewarded with a pair of Samsung GALAXY Y Hello Kitty Limited Edition smartphones to be shared between the winner and their best friend.

The lucky participants to hold exclusive passes to the event enjoyed a special 3D screening of the animated fantasy-adventure film, “Rise of the Guardians“.

The Samsung GALAXY Y Hello Kitty Limited Edition, priced at RM419, has been available since 26th November 2012 and can be purchased through all Samsung Mobile Brand Shops.

For more information on the new Samsung GALAXY Y Hello Kitty Limited Edition, please visit their website or their Facebook page.


#DEAN: R&B Singer To Make Comeback With “limbo”

After making a trip to the “Bermuda Triangle”, Dean is now stuck in “limbo”.

The South Korean R&B singer surprised everyone last Friday (10th February) when he dropped a teaser video, which announced the release of his upcoming album “limbo”, out of nowhere. And now, he has dropped 2 more teasers and revealed the track list.

Although the crooner made his debut as a singer in 2015, he has only released one full album, titled “130 Mood : TRBL”, so far. But it seems like fans will have to continue waiting for another full album, as “limbo” is only a single album which will contain 2 tracks. They are “Unwelcome Guest (불청객)” as well as “Come Over (넘어와)”, and the latter track will feature the vocals of 15&’s Baek Yerin.

The 1st video teaser showed several abstract shapes jumping around the screen, and featured the word “Dream” at the end of it. Meanwhile, the 2nd teaser features the sweet vocals of Dean and Baek Yerin along with several hand drawn images. Both videos are in black and white with the title “Come Over”, thus causing fans to speculate that this might be the title track.

Prior to his debut, Dean was already well known in the music industry as a songwriter. The talented artiste not only produced for idol groups such as EXO, VIXX, HISTORY, but also spawned several hits such as “Eternity” and “Black Pearl”. He has also featured in Block B Zico’s “Bermuda Triangle” and SNSD Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon’s “Starlight”.

“limbo” is slated to be released on 17th February (Friday) at midnight KST.

For updates on the singer, remember to check out his official website, Facebook page, and Instagram!


Faizal Tahir Drops A Huge Bombshell, Announces His Final Album

Multi-award-winning Malaysian singer Faizal Tahir has shocked many of his fans yesterday when he revealed that his upcoming 5th album will also be his final album ever.

Aptly titled “Rojak”, the album features 9 tracks and the name symbolises the diverse culture in Malaysia from the people to the food and languages.

“All of us here in Malaysia, we are all rojak,” Faizal Tahir said in an interview. “Rojak people, rojak culture, rojak language – it’s just so beautiful. That is why I decided to call this album “Rojak” because it represents Malaysia.”

“One thing about this “Rojak” album, it’s actually my last album,” said the 40-year-old singer before the screen turns black.

Last week, Faizal Tahir has already teased fans about his final album when he revealed the tracklist in the form of images, encouraging fans to guess the title of each song.

Some of the songs from the new album include “Ragaman”, “Ratu”, “Fire & Water”, “Malaysia”, and more.

It is unsure if the last album would mean that the singer is officially retiring from the music industry or if he wants to focus producing music for other artists and explore into different entertainment area, similar to Altimet.

But a lot of fans as well as his celebrity friends are shocked and devastated by the news, with many saying that it is too soon for him to quit.

— 🌺🇲🇾Faris Anas🇲🇾🌺 (@anas_razif) July 25, 2019

Your last album but not your last single.. Pleaseeeee

— Qhayana Wahid (@Qhayana1) July 25, 2019

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Tsutaya Books: Largest Japanese Bookstore Chain To Open 1st Outlet In KL

Calling all book lovers, Tsutaya Books – Japan’s biggest bookstore chain – is set to make its Malaysian debut in 2022. It’s a multi-concept bookstore that doesn’t just sell books, but it also houses a cafe inside, an art display, and various amazing paraphernalia.

This collaborative effort between GOB Oriental Berhad with Sojitz Corporation and Culture Convenience Club is set to launch the first Malaysian Tsutaya Books outlet in Pavillion Bukit Jalil, sometime in April 2022.

Since Tsutaya Books first launched its first store in Hirakata, Osaka back in 1983, the brand has expand to become the largest retail bookstore chain in Japan with 1200 outlets in the country. There are also 9 other outlets in Taiwan and China.

Those who have visited Tsutaya Books in Japan have commented that the brand offers a perfect marriage between traditional pass time and modern-day accessibility. Looking at the photos of Tsutaya stores from overseas, it has a breathtaking interior and exterior – in addition to an unparalleled collection of books.

In case you weren’t aware, Taiwan’s biggest Eslite Bookstore was supposed to open its Malaysian store in The Starhill, Bukit Bintang this year. However, the pandemic has delayed the launch date to 2022 as well.


“The Jurassic & Ice Age Adventure” At I-City

This holiday season, Paddle Pop and Cityneon Malaysia proudly present an exciting prehistoric adventure of colossal proportions called “The Jurassic & Ice Age Adventure” at I-City, Shah Alam. The exhibition will see life size dinosaurs, mammoths, and ice-age creatures brought to life using animatronics and special effects. The exhibition is aimed at kids of all ages, dinosaurs’ fans, history buffs and budding adventurers and explorers.

This one of a kind adventure is certain to enthrall visitors with a thrilling & exciting adventure as it takes them on a journey by foot to an awe-inspiring 2.6 million years back in time adventure, which combines incredible sets, music and arts while incorporating an exciting and entertaining introduction to the real science of field archaeology.

Showcasing items from “Extinction of Dinosaurs” to the “Ice Age” era, this spectacular edutainment exhibition will feature 25 Life-Sized Animatronic Creatures which is far more than a static display of props. Visitors can follow the “PrehistoricTrail”, which chronicles Prehistoric archaeological adventures from historical discoveries of Dinosaur Revolution to the commencement of Ice Age era.

Along with the Prehistoric Trail, the exhibition will take visitors through four zones:

Throughout the journey, museum-goers will encounter archaeological highlights and learn how archaeology and global climate has changed from Triassic period, approximately 230 million years ago when early evolution took place, until the Ice Age era.

The entire experience is enhanced with well-researched educational information of the evolution together with various information on anatomical characteristics, food chains and scientific discoveries about the habitant of these prehistoric creatures.

The exhibition is open from 11am to 10pm (week days) and from 11am to 12am (weekends) respectively offers an exciting variety of activities from competitions, day camps, educational excursions and scavenger hunts. To add to this unforgettable adventure the visitors will also have an opportunity to join our enthusiastic paleontologists in reenacting this part of our natural history during our scheduled museum tours.

For ticket enquiries and further information, visit their website.


#Vape: Education Ministry Bans Vaping In All Malaysian Government Schools

In a report by The Star Online, the Education Ministry announced that vaping, or the use of e-cigarettes, is banned in all government schools with immediate effect.

This announcement is coming a few weeks after Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Idris Jusoh said that vaping and smoking are banned in 20 public universities in Malaysia.

Students are not the only ones being prohibited from vaping in schools. Parents, teachers, school staff members, and anyone entering the 10,100 government schools nationwide are also barred from bringing vape devices or e-cigarettes into the school compound.

Regarding the decision to put a ban on vaping in government schools, Education Ministry deputy director-general Datuk Ahmad Tajudin Jab stated that authorities had to carry out this drastic measure after receiving reports of students picking up this unhealthy habit.

He said in a directive to all state education departments:

Canteen operators, security guards, gardeners and cleaners will also be required to comply with this ruling.

He added that action would be taken against anyone who breached the rule.

News of a ban on vaping surfaced earlier in November after Health Minister Datuk Seri S Subramaniam revealed that vaping will be banned once they have settled the legalities. The ministry then announced that they were looking to implement an excise tax on e-cigarettes and vapes.

Though Malaysia’s Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said that the Cabinet had decided against imposing a ban on electronic cigarettes/vape or vaping, raids on vape outlets were conducted nationwide.

Johor also announced earlier in December that all sale of vape products including its equipment and liquids are officially banned from next year.

What do you think of the ban on vaping in government schools? Do you think that it was an appropriate decision? Share your thoughts in the comment box below.

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(UPDATE) #ChiangMai: 13 Malaysians Killed In Tragic Bus Accident; Remains Of Victims To Be Brought Back

A total of 13 Malaysian tourists, comprising of 5 men and 8 women aged between 20 and 80, were confirmed to have died in a tragic bus accident in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand yesterday (20th December). The report was confirmed by Datuk Nazirah Hussain, Malaysian ambassador to Thailand.

In a report by The Star Online, Nazirah said that details of the victims will not be released until the Thai police have completed their investigations. 9 Malaysians survived the tragedy, but 4 people are said to be in critical condition while 5 others sustained minor injuries.

The bus reportedly ran off a mountainous road, hit a power pole, and slammed into a big rock and trees in Chiang Mai’s Doi Saket district at around 11:30am (12:30pm Malaysian time).

Rescue worker Uthai Pollaharn said that the bus driver was speeding on national highway No 118 through Ban Pang Fan village between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces in the North after colliding with a Nissan truck in the Danmae Kajan area of Chiang Rai. The tragedy then happened when the driver lost control at the 43rd km. Uthai added that this accident was the worst accident with many casualties in the area.

Krissana Fongdawirat, the driver of the Nissan truck who chased after the bus, was not hurt in the accident. He alerted police about the bus, only to find that it had crashed. Operated by Weerapan Tour, the bus was carrying 3 other passengers, a tour guide, a bus conductor, and the 58-year-old driver who is identified as Somporn Bualuang. The nationalities of the other passengers had yet to be determined.

The 22 victims from Batu Pahat were sent to 4 different hospitals namely Mai Bangkok Hospital, McCormick Hospital, Doi Saket Hospital, and Suan Dok Hospital in Chiang Mai.

Most of the Malaysian tourists involved in the accident are senior citizens in their 50s and 60s. Chiu Travel Sdn Bhd general manager Terence Yung, who handled the group on the 5-day tour, revealed that they were either family members or close friends.

The group left Singapore by flight to Chiang Mai and went on a sight-seeing trip around the city and Chiang Rai on Thursday. They were supposed to return on Monday.

According to Terrence, his agency was alerted of the accident by the Thai authorities at about 4pm yesterday.

“We have already contacted the next of kin, but we have yet to get a full report on what really happened, and there have also been conflicting reports. Our priority now is to sort out the list of travellers for identification purposes,” he added.

In a Facebook posting, the agency also asked family members of the victims to contact them for updates:

At the time of writing, a total of 15 family members of the Malaysian victims will board a Thai Airways flight to Bangkok at around 1pm today and arrive in Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport in at 5pm.

Terence said that the family members would then travel to Chiang Mai on a domestic flight. He told reporters:

They are from 7 families who will identify the victims who had died and those who are safe. 3 of our staff will accompany them to process the death certificates and bring home the remains.

“We expect the process to bring back the bodies to take about 4 to 7 days,” he said. He added that an emergency team was formed to “obtain all the details before informing the families on the status of the victims around 9pm (Sunday)”. According to Terrence, the victims’ families were devastated upon receiving the news, but had remained calm.“We share their grief and offer our heartfelt sympathies. We also lost one of our staff who had led the group,” he said.

“We share their grief and offer our heartfelt sympathies. We also lost one of our staff who had led the group,” he added.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak revealed through his social media accounts that he was saddened by the news of the horrific bus accident in Chiang Mai.

I am sad to hear of the accident in Chiang Mai where 13 of our nationals were killed. I express my condolences to the families of the victims.

“The government will ensure that all efforts are taken to bring back the remains of the victims and that assistance are provided to the families of the victims,” he added.

Saya sedih mendengar berita kemalangan di Chiang Mai di mana 13 rakyat kita terkorban. Saya mengucapkan takziah kepada keluarga mangsa (1/2)

— Mohd Najib Tun Razak (@NajibRazak) December 20, 2015

Krjn akan memastikan segala usaha dibuat bagi membawa pulang jenazah serta bantuan diberikan kepada keluarga mangsa warganegara Msia (2/2)

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi also took to his Twitter to expresse his condolences:

Takziah kpd keluarga 16 rakyat M'sia yg terkorban akibat kemalangan di Thailand. Diharap Duta kita lakukan terbaik utk urus semua jenazah.

— Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (@DrZahidHamidi) December 20, 2015

Translation: “My condolences to the families of the 13 Malaysian nationals who died in the accident in Thailand. It is hoped that our ambassador will do her best to bring back all the victims.”

Our deepest condolences to the families of the victims perished in the bus tragedy.

According to State Tourism, Domestic Trade and Consumerism executive council chairman Datuk Tee Siew Kiong, the remains of the 13 Malaysian victims of the Chiang Mai bus crash are expected to arrive at Senai Airport in Malaysia tomorrow (23rd December) evening.

After visiting relatives of the victims, Tee told reporters:

The Royal Malaysian Air Force will be using their C-130 plane to bring back the bodies as well as the victims who sustained injuries in the incident.

“Wisma Putra has informed the state government that DNA tests are still underway in Chiang Mai to identify the victims,” he added.

According to Tee, the state government would coordinate the arrival of the remains before handing them to their respective families.

A team of medical officers will be on board the plane as we are also bringing back those injured in the incident.

He also said that the state government thanked Thailand for its help throughout the whole process.

Sources: The Star Online (1) (2) (3), The Malay Mail Online (1) (2) via Bernama.

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The Secret DC Cinematic Universe You Didn’t Know Existed

Zack Snyder’s “Justice League” has come and gone. The fans, however, are not through with Warner Bros though. Oh no, not by a long shot. On Twitter, Snyder fans have been vocally advocating for a full-blown restoration of the “Snyderverse”. They want to see the director’s multi-film vision come to light. One that would have seen a truly apocalyptic future for the heroes of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) with Darkseid ruling the Earth and the heroes on the run.

Unfortunately, the chances of that coming to pass seems slim to non-existent. That being said…what if we told you that there was another DC cinematic universe that saw the heroes of Earth clash with Darkseid? An epic film saga that concluded with the Justice League meeting Darkseid in a climatic battle to determine the fate of all worlds. Can you imagine that? Well, you won’t have to because it’s already made!

Barring the most avid DC fans, chances are you’ve probably never even heard of the DC Animated Movie Universe (DCAMU). Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about the other DC cinematic universe!

The one thing we keep hearing from Snyder fans is how much they love the director’s approach and tone to the DC universe. Oftentimes, his heroes are seen to be far more darker and cynical in comparison to their brighter, more optimistic Marvel rivals. Whether it’s “Man of Steel” or “Justice League”, his characters are ultimately defined by struggle, both from within and from external evils. Oh and then there’s the stylized gore…Snyder loves his blood. Which is why we believe fans of the Snyderverse should definitely give the DCAMU a chance.

Much like Zack Snyder’s films, the DCAMU is heavily inspired by DC’s New 52 line of comics. The New 52 was meant to introduce newcomers to a more grounded and grittier version of traditional characters. We’ve seen a Superman who was less certain about his place in the world and more inclined to violence. A Batman who has been beaten and broken on multiple occasions. A Wonder Woman who was more warrior than she was ambassador of peace. The New 52 even introduced a supernatural team that battles against demonic and supernatural forces: Justice League Dark.

While the Snyderverse only had a measly three films to flesh out this darker, arguably more mature vision of the New 52, the DCAMU has sixteen of them! And unlike Snyder’s trilogy, there are no cliffhangers here. Let’s do a quick rundown of what fans can expect from the DCAMU.

The film series surprisingly doesn’t begin with an origin story. Instead, it kicks off with something utterly unexpected. The death of an alternate timeline. In 2013’s “Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox”, we see the Flash, Barry Allen break through the time barrier in an effort to save his mother. In the process, he forever changes his previous timeline, creating the DCAMU one we see today. Now that’s groundbreaking! A full year before “X-Men: Days of Future Past”, Warner Bros made the first ever cinematic rebirth event. Up until that point, we’ve only seen it in comics. Which is why it’s such a crying shame that this landmark moment doesn’t get nearly enough of the attention it deserves. Even as we write this now, Warner Bros is planning yet another Flashpoint-like event with 2022’s “The Flash”.

From then on, we see a whole cinematic universe of interconnected animated films. There’s the Batman film series that gives one of the satisfying character arcs in the history of his incarnation. We see Bruce undergo a journey of fatherhood in “Son of Batman” and “Batman vs Robin”. We’ve seen him loved and lost in “Batman: Bad Blood” and “Batman: Hush”. We’ve even seen new heroes rise as well. From Constantine in “Justice League Dark” to Raven and Damian Wayne’s Robin throughout “Justice League vs. Teen Titans” to “Teen Titans: The Judas Contract”.

The most pivotal film series to the DCAMU timeline though would be the Justice League film series alongside the Superman duology. They feed into the overall plot of having Darkseid finally conquering the DC universe. The DCAMU culminates in a grand “Avengers: Endgame” level event that sounds something right out of Zack Snyder’s playbook.

In “Justice League Dark: Apokolips War”, we see the Justice League battle against Darkseid and lose, only to have the rest of the surviving heroes mount a desperate last stand against the Lord of Apokolips. “Apokolips War” ends on a melancholic note with a twist that no one saw coming. Much like Marvel’s “Endgame”, the finale amazingly ties up all the sub-plots and character arcs throughout the DCAMU films. If you’re a fan of the Snyderverse, you owe to yourself to check the this animated film series out.

At this point you’re probably asking: Where can I binge-watch this entire catalogue right now?! Well, here’s the thing. Originally, you could have access to the entire DCAMU catalogue on the DC Universe streaming service. That was the case until September 2020 last year when they decided to rebrand the service to cater exclusively to digital-comics. So it seemed for a time like there was nowhere DC fans could go to watch DCAMU films.

That was the case until recently it was announced that the entire DCAMU, alongside other DC related films and TV series, would be finding a home on HBO Max streaming services. That’s right folks! All you diehard DC nutcases can have all the Batman, Superman and Justice League you handle on HBO Max today. Perhaps with the release of DC’s full catalogue of films and series on the service, the DCAMU will remain secret no longer.

So what do you think of DCAMU? Do you think it’s worth investing in a HBO Max account? Or do you plan on simply using a free-trial to binge-watch the entire saga? Be sure to let us know in the comments down below!


#EatClean: Our Favourite Apps That Help Keep Us On Track

Want to stick to your clean eating plan for at least a month and need help because you don’t know where to start, how to plan, or what you should/shouldn’t eat or drink? You’re not alone. Most people have a pretty good idea of what it means to eat healthy foods i.e. embracing foods like vegetables, fruits and whole grains, plus healthy proteins and fats. but few manage to do it.

That’s all going to change because we’ve recently stumbled upon some apps that will help you through your #eatclean journey, from tracking what you eat to telling you what’s bad for you, to ensuring that you keep hydrated as well as listing out clean recipes that you can either dish up or share.

Download and track/eat your way to a healthier you:

Want to keep fit and eat clean yet have a access to abundance of good, simple, and delicious food? The Whole Foods Market® app is “home” to over 3,700 tested healthy and inventive recipes and much more. For the clean eating newbie, wandering around Whole Foods Market is like getting a crash course on ingredients that might as well have been from outer space, judging from their names e.g. kale, chia, quinoa. Luckily, the app walks you through the recipe details. It can be a little intimidating and overwhelming but at the same time, blows all the other apps out of the water in terms of variety. We also love how the “On-Hand” search allows you to get suggestions based on ingredients you have hanging around.

How many times have you looked at a food label and found yourself puzzled by some of the names of the ingredients on it? You see, back in simpler times, grocery/food shopping was a whole lot easier because most food came from farms. Sadly, most of the food we buy these days are factory-made, with chemical additives – and we put them all into our stomachs without a second thought! Luckily, there’s an app to educate you about what you’re eating. Chemical Cuisine features a searchable and filterable list of over 130 food additives, their descriptions, and safety ratings to help you make healthy decisions. Learn about a new additive every time you start up the app on the Home screen, which requires no Internet connection to use. Best of all, when it updates or adds new information about a food additive, it’ll let you know by displaying a badge on the additive.

Contrary to popular belief, food journals aren’t torture devices that nutritionists and trainers force upon people. In fact, they’re an extremely effective way to track eating habits. Noom Coach is one of the many that we love, although it’s more of an app to track weight loss more than anything else. It’s designed to help you develop healthy lifestyle choices and reach your goals. Unlike a calorie counter, Noom Coach provides support, backed by science, to help you make lasting lifestyle changes. Honestly, we love Noom’s world-class technology which helps you log your meals in seconds with smart search, predictive algorithms, and intuitive portion sizes. Their food databases are complete with foods of sorts, packaged items, and restaurant meals.

What if you want to plan your meals and share your recipes all at the same time? You can, with Fiit Chick. It’s by far the best meal plan app that is perfect for the newbie who wants to get started on a clean eating approach and practice healthy, fresh eating regimes. In fact, the easy “point and tap” navigation app comes complete with features such as a full 7-day clean eating meal plan, a shopping list so that you know what you should keep a look out for when you go grocery shopping, and over 60 clean eating recipes (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desert). Of course, there’s also the recipe sharing function which allows you to share you favourites with your friends via e-mail or with all your Facebook contacts.

When it comes to putting clean eating into practise, it’s extremely important to drink water. It’s something that’s usually quite simple to accomplish and yet, how many times have you gone through half a day or heck, even an entire day without even having as much as a glass of water? Because drinking enough water each day can be a challenge, WaterLog/Waterlogged helps keep track of your daily water intake. Drinks can be logged with a single tap of a button with configurable preset container amounts. A custom amount can also be added quickly, without changing the presets. The main screen displays daily progress and the amount of elapsed time since the last drink entry, and a history screen is provided to review the days drink entries and delete any mistakes.

Download it for Android. The iOS version is a completely different app but works the same to track your daily water intake.

One of the greatest misconceptions of eating clean is, “Just eat lots of seafood! It’s healthy!” True and not true all at the same time. For example, shellfish contain varying amounts of cholesterol and its not always good for you. With the Seafood Watch app, you now have an essential guide for making better guilt-free choices when you’re seafood shopping. It helps you choose ocean-friendly seafood at your favourite restaurants and stores, and brings you the most current recommendations for seafood and sushi along with complete information about how each item should be fished or farmed. You can even sort seafood by”Best Choice”, “Good Alternative”, or “Avoid” rankings

We’re pretty sure that there are other apps available out there which are commonly used by the clean eating community. If you know of any that we’ve left out from the list above, drop us a comment in the box below ;)

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Amber Heard Shares 6 Insights About Mera In Aquaman

The DC Extended Universe will be taking fans a substantial trip under the sea when “Aquaman” debuts at the end of the year. The titular character will be joined by his comic book queen Mera, played by Amber Heard.

Entertainment Weekly caught up with the 32-year-old actress to talk about her DC character. Although the upcoming DC film will mainly focus on Arthur Curry/Aquaman’s solo adventure, Mera will also have a substantial role as the female lead.

Here are 6 things to know about Mera in “Aquaman” in Heard’s words:

“She’s a warrior who was raised by the queen of Atlantis before she passed. We meet Mera after the queen has long since left and she’s been raised to take over as queen her whole life. She’s been raised to serve her kingdom and rule over Atlantis with King Orm (Patrick Wilson). She’s very disciplined and almost militaristic. She’s fully dedicated to saving her nation and that serves as an impetus to go to the surface world and elicit help from Arthur (Jason Momoa) who’s the polar opposite of Mera — he lives in the moment, he’s confused about his identity, he lacks the purpose and focus that Mera has, which makes them an unlikely duo. But it’s that disparity that makes a nuanced relationship between them. Where one is strong the other is weak and those differences are a conduit for their bonding.”

“So there’s an old-fashioned hierarchy in their society that they rule Atlantis. There are different tribe communities within the social hierarchy. Some of us have certain superpowers and I have hydrokinesis (the ability to manipulate water) — not just making bubbles.”

“It’s interesting to see how different filmmakers approach the same characters. We got to meet Mera in an introduction and I think Zack’s approach highlighted what you would want to highlight if you were just meeting her as a commanding warrior.”

“‘Justice League’ highlighted her militaristic side. In ‘Aquaman’ we have a fuller picture, not just her as Mera of Atlantis but also see her struggle in the surface world in civilian clothes. One of my favourite scenes is her first time on the surface world and she’s forced to dress as a normal human. We wanted to honour the comic books, I wanted to stick with how she’s depicted in the comic books in a superficial way, I wanted to go full comic book as to how she looks, but it’s in the nuance of her personality where I wanted to push the boundaries.”

A post shared by Amber Heard (@amberheard)

“She has a natural antagonistic view of the surface world which you can understand if you look at the condition of the oceans today, how somebody living in the ocean world would feel that way. We had time to fully flesh out her character. Jason becomes more Atlantean more super and mine becomes more human.”

“That Mera has her own name. Before I decided to take on this role I read a couple of the comic books and I was struck by how Mera was introduced. She comes into this one scene in the first comic I read where Arthur is attempting to save the town from a flood and she helps him. She has an equal part in saving this village. And these civilians turn to each other and say, “Who is that? Is that Aquawoman?” And she says something to the effect of, “No, I have my own name, my name is Mera.” That resonated with me as somebody who’s always been allergic to being the damsel, the two-dimensional archetype of what women are often limited to in this industry — especially in the superhero world. So when I spoke to (‘Justice League’ director Zack Snyder) he got me at “warrior queen.” He said, “You get a sword and a crown” and I’m like, “Okay, you know how to play to your audience.””

A post shared by Jason Momoa (@prideofgypsies)

“He’s exactly like you think Jason would be like but even more so. His heart and his personality is as big as he is. He’s got this booming voice and his sense of humor isn’t satisfied unless he’s making people laugh. I was joking that you always know where Jason is — you hear loud rock and roll, booming voice and people laughing and something breaking or falling. He’d make the worst ninja ever. I got annoyed him because on the set I read books and I’m quiet. He’s allergic to not making people laugh or be keeping people engaged around him all the time. So he started stealing my book so I’d be forced to pay attention to him.”

“Aquaman” opens in cinemas this December.


Flight: “Don’t Drink & Fly”

To be honest, “Flight” looks like one of those epic movies that based on some true accounts. And we’d be lying if it didn’t make us put ourselves in the shoes of those that were at some point or another involved in a plane tragedy. It’s true that we’ll never know what it’s really like to be a victim of such disastrous events, and perhaps we’ll never know if all airplane crew members are as reckless as Denzel Washington.

As reckless and at the same time, as much of a genius as Denzel Washington.

So here’s the deal – Denzel Washington plays Captain Whip Whitaker who, despite his drug taking and alcoholic dependency, managed to save a plane from a nosedive by maneuvering it out of its freefall. We wrung our hands in anticipation of a crash when Whip turned the plane upside down but as uncommon air disaster miracles would have it, he manages to “safe glide” the plane with some heroic gusto to a forced landing with not-so-much-force. Yes, Whip saves lives.

At least the lives of most people who boarded that fateful flight. Except for the air stewardess, Katerina Marquez (played by Nadine Velazquez),  with whom he had a “perpetually intoxicated blur” of a relationship with.

Further investigations showed not only that the plane was “broken” (read: faulty) to begin with but also the fact that Whip had quite an “interesting” toxicology report. So the real problem remains. And pardon us but from this point onwards, here’s where we start worrying about any future flights that we might board. Just saying.

[youtube id=”62eovImCGCY” width=”600″ height=”350″]

He’s an alcoholic and somewhat of a druggie, a personal issue in which he has spent his whole life either very defensive or in denial about. Even after losing his wife and his son. And he’s got his whole world lying for him just so that he can stay out of prison. So in a solemn tale of self-realization and redemption, Whip has to weigh out what’s morally right, what’s beneficial for him, and ultimately what’s fair to others. On top of a smattering of religious reasons.

You’ll see what we mean when you catch the movie!

Whip’s end decision? Find out when “Flight” is released in a cinema near you on 21st February 2013 (Thursday).

For more information, visit the movie’s official website.

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#Dragonair: Young Man Caught Impersonating Pilot On Flight To Malaysia

Someone might have just taken a page out of Leonardo DiCaprio’s real-life con artist character, Frank Abagnale, from the Steven Spielberg movie “Catch Me If You Can”.

A young man, believed to be 18 to 20 years old, was caught impersonating a pilot – complete with a fake attire – while on board a Dragonair flight to Malaysia.

According to reports, the unnamed man donned a convincing pilot’s uniform, complete with badges, a white shirt with shoulder epaulettes, a black tie and black pants. His luggage tags and lanyard even featured Cathay Pacific logos, Drangonair’s parent company.

The individual claimed to have just flown into Hong Kong from San Francisco. He reportedly told the cabin crew on flight KA691 that he intended to thank the pilots personally once the Airbus A330 touched down in Penang and requested to be allowed into the cockpit after the 3-hour journey.

So what gave him away? After he ordered a glass of Bloody Mary, a cocktail which is not on the menu (a small detail that a pilot should have been informed about), the cabin crew suspected he was a fraud. The flight attendant gave him a glass of non-alcoholic Virgin Mary instead, and asked to see his pilot credentials.

When he couldn’t provide the documents, claiming he left it in his checked baggage, the flight attendants stepped up their alert and notified the ground crew and Malaysian immigration officers. Upon landing in Penang on 31st March, the impersonator admitted that he was not a real pilot.

He claimed that the Cathay Pacific uniform and paraphernalia were given to him by his stepfather, who happens to be a pilot of the airline. Reports also show that the suspect did have a history of impersonating pilots. According to Eji N Sight, there isn’t enough evidence at the moment to charged him for fraud or theft.

Sources: Eji N Sight, Daily Mail, Free Malaysia Today.


Enjoy Your Hari Raya Celebration With Apple’s New Releases & Services!

Apple users old and new, hear ye, hear ye! With every entertainment platform getting ready for the festive season, it’s no surprise Apple is jumping on the bandwagon. Why plan your holiday activities if Apple already sorted them out for you?

Jam out to Raya playlists in your car as you drive home, stream new and upcoming shows with your loved ones and definitely don’t miss out on learning some iconic BTS dance moves! Let’s check out all Apple has to offer for you to enjoy your Raya holiday to the fullest:

Don’t have time to make a Hari Raya playlist for your journey back to your hometown? No worries as Apple Music has curated playlists such as “Hari Raya for Family” and “Riang Ria Hari Raya” which features something for everyone, with a mix of cosmopolitan beats as well as traditional and nostalgic Raya songs like “Balik Kampung” by Sudirman designed for the whole family.

Now that you can meet your cousins and other relatives after 2 years, why not have a big slumber party where all of you can watch and enjoy new TV shows and movies on your Apple devices? Here’s a list of the current Apple Originals as well as the upcoming ones:

Proud to be one of the new artists in the Artist Spotlight series on Apple Fitness+! Get excited for workouts featuring #BTS playlists, available now and dropping every Monday until May 9.

🔗 https://t.co/pJV7Osm3I7#PermissiontoDance #CloseYourRings #DanceWithFitnessPlus pic.twitter.com/FTylhrF2Dk

— BTS_official (@bts_bighit) April 21, 2022

If you like to dance then be ready to bust some moves on Friday 29th April (Saturday, 30th April in Malaysia) as Apple’s Fitness+ introduces a new Dance Collection, a limited-edition award and a special Artist Spotlight featuring hits and iconic moves from BTS!

If only there was a way for you to subscribe to all the entertainment above in one plan. Actually there is! Apple One is the easiest way to get all of Apple’s entertainment subscription services in one simple plan, including Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness+, and iCloud.

Subscribers can choose from a range of plans to unlock instant access to the best entertainment, news, games, and fitness experiences plus storage to back up photos, files, and more across their devices.

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#ISETAN: Specialty Store “ISETAN The Japan Store Kuala Lumpur” To Open This Month

Japanese retailer the Isetan Mitsukoshi Group is slated to open a specialty store, ISETAN The Japan Store Kuala Lumpur, in Malaysia before the end of this month.

Located at LOT 10, the concept store marks Isetan Mitsukoshi Group’s expansion into markets outside Japan in response to global interest in its country’s history, diversity, lifestyle, culture, technology, and aesthetics.

Upon the announcement, President and CEO Hiroshi Ohnishi said, “We will introduce Japan’s exceptional products, experiences and services to the world. In 2011, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) launched “Cool Japan,” a program promoting the introduction of regional products, fashion and other content to the world. In this context, the Isetan Mitsukoshi Group has promoted the “JAPAN SENSES” campaign, introducing to our customers remarkable traditional crafts from all over Japan, styling them with a newborn originality.”

“Now, to more clearly convey the spirit of “Cool Japan,” we are ready to show the world the exceptional craftsmanship Japan is proud to offer at the fully renovated LOT 10 in Kuala Lumpur, supported by Cool Japan Fund Inc.,” he added.

As such, Malaysian consumers can expect to find high-quality products, authentic Japanese experiences, and services across 6 floors:

Whether it’s sampling authentic Japanese gastronomy or immersing oneself in Japanese culture and technology, the store it set to enhance your lifestyle with its offerings.

ISETAN The Japan Store Kuala Lumpur will be located at LOT 10 Shopping Centre, 50 Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

For more information, visit their website.


5 Virtual Games To Play With Literally Anyone On Your Next Zoom Meet

Let’s face it, Zoom video calls are frustrating — as a consequence of being confined to our homes for 1.5 years now. Working from home by using video conferencing options, did seem like a good substitute at the beginning of the pandemic. However, as time passes by, it might not be a viable choice for various groups of people predominantly, people with short attention spans and people who are more prone to fatigue. Socializing is indeed important for humans to carry on with their daily lives. Being social animals, video conferencing sucks out all the fun from a regular, physical meeting. This goes the same for online dates too.

While talking using video calls could seem like a great way to get to know each other, it might seem mundane and a bit too repetitive. With work meetings being a tad too bland and the thrill of dating being taken away by the pandemic, it’s time to upgrade your daily video conferences to be more inclusive of fun elements (virtually, of course!)

Here are 5 online games that could be played online with your friends and loved ones.

This game is quite simple, in reality! Known for its reputation as a party-game for horrible people, the essence of this game is where one player asks a question from a black card and everyone else fills in the blank with the white card they think is funniest (or usually, most taboo). This game is most fun played with 6 to 8 players therefore, it’s most suitable for ice breaking sessions before work meetings. While some decks of cards might be a tad bit scandalous with NSFW contents (you might want to save that for a Friday night virtual drink session with your friends), you can always pick family-friendly decks too.

Since this virtual game is quite lengthy, it’s best to play it at night or when you’re completely free. Developed and published by American game studio, Innersloth, the setting of this online multiplayer social deduction game takes place in a space-themed setting in which players each take one of two roles most being Crewmates and a predetermined number being impostors. The goal of these Crewmates are to identify the impostors, eliminate them and complete tasks around the map. Meanwhile, the impostors have to covertly sabotage and kill the Crewmates before they complete all of their tasks. Sounds cool, right? A popular platform to play this on is Discord.

A revolutionized concept of Pictionary, Skribbl.io takes over its predecessor in a fun, online format. Get a link, pick a name for yourself, choose the outlook of your avatar and the guessing games begin! Depending on who starts drawing first, the other participants are required to guess the object via the chat box feature provided. Points will be given to the fastest person to give the correct answer.

This is a classic game of guessing the criminal with minimal effort — using psychological power to figure out the spy. There will be a spy in the game along with an FBI detective and the entire FBI team. The spy would have to guess the round’s location. A great tip is to infer from other people’s questions and answers. The other players would have to guess who the spy is. Oh, and the players should communicate via Zoom or any other video conferencing options.

Playing this game with your friends would being fun to a whole new level. Each player makes up fake answers to real trivia questions and it would be the rest of the players’ jobs to find out the real answer. This is indeed an intellectual game to test your knowledge regarding general knowledge questions — that might regularly take quite some time to figure out.

Hopefully, these games could spice up your conversations with friends. Instead of those mundane repetitive conversations, it’s high time you start using these free games to challenge your group of friends or working colleagues to a healthy duel!

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GSC: 13 Movies To Check Out At The Japanese Film Festival 2019

The annual Japanese Film Festival is back for its 16th edition and is set to light up limited screens at Golden Screen Cinemas in 4 different regions – Klang Valley, Penang, Johor Bahru as well as Borneo.

The selection of 13 latest Japanese movies will surely capture hearts and minds of audiences from all ages. The line-up consists of films with different genres – from sweet romantic comedy to tear-jerking family drama.

“Watching films is probably one of the best ways to learn about the culture,
tradition and people of the country where the film comes from, or even to
understand ourselves better,” shared YBrs. Dr. Tan Awang Besar, Undersecretary of the Cultural Policy Division, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

For those who are curious, here’s a list of all 13 movies that are set to be screened for the annual movie fest:

Yasuaki Shikano is a 34-year-old man who suffers from muscular dystrophy since he was 12. He hires volunteers to help him, but they have to cater to his every whim – especially to Hisashi Tanaka, a medical school student. Shikano constantly rags on him and even demands a banana in the middle of the night. He then meets Misaki Ando and falls in love with her but he doesn’t know that Tanaka and Misaki are a couple. Their lives begin to change soon after.

Kaori is a single mother and she raises her high-school daughter Futaba. Her daughter is in a rebellious phase and often ignores her mother. Kaori then decides to teach her daughter a lesson by inserting messages in her daughter’s bento meals.

Akio wishes he had a better relationship with his reserved father, Akira. One day, Akira suddenly quits his job and retires without giving out any explanation to the family. Thinking it could be a good tool to be close to his father, Akio gives him a software of an online game “Final Fantasy XIV”. By teaching his father how to play the game and secretly interacting with him as an anonymous online avatar, Akio hopes to know his father better through the adventures with other players in the game but little does the young man know what Akira is going through.

Kazu Tokita works at a cafe known as “Funiculi Funicula,” which her relative Nagare Tokita runs. There is a mysterious rumour that if a customer takes a specific seat at the cafe, that customer can travel back to a time of their choice. But there are specific rules in order to do so.

Kenji is a young aspiring assistant director with a dream of becoming a full fledge director one day, but all he does now is running errands. He enjoys watching old, black & white romantic movie that only showed for a brief period before being cancelled. One day, a princess character from his favourite movie, Miyuki, emerged from the silver screen. They then experience a life full of colours but unbeknownst to Kenji, Miyuki is harbouring a secret that she cannot reveal.

27-year-old market researcher Sato is a single man and a dreamer who hopes for a dramatic encounter for his love life. One day, a random attractive woman agrees to answer the survey he is conducting after a hard time finding willing participants. He then notices something rather peculiar written on her hand.

The Suzuki family consists of the son, Koichi, his sister Fumi, and his parents Sachio and Yuko. Koichi is a ‘hikikomori’ or stay-at-home shut-in. One day, he decides to take his own life and leaves his family in confusion. His mother, Yuko, upon discovering his body, goes unconscious because of the shock. She regains consciousness after 49 days but devoid of any memory of Koichi’s death.

Takashi Omura was once a popular professional wrestler. He now wears a cockroach mask and wrestles as a heel – a bad guy wrestler. He is married to Shiori and they have a son together. Their son, Shota is currently studying in elementary school. They have not yet told their son on what Takashi does for a living.

One day, Shota finds out that Takashi is a professional wrestler and a villain with a cockroach mask. However, Shota lies to his classmate that his dad is a popular professional wrestler.

Set in the Edo period, samurai Shunnosuke Katagiri is known as a bookworm. He is also shy, naive and inexperienced. One day, he receives a mission to help a ‘daimyo’ move. He seeks the aid of his childhood friend Genemon Takamura as well as Oran, the beautiful but headstrong daughter of a former magistrate in charge of relocation. He then begins to carry out his mission.

Jun returns home one night after a hard day only to find his wife – Chie – collapsed near the door in a pool of blood. Panicking, he rushes to her side, but then notices a bottle of ketchup nearby. Chie giggles in a feigned unconscious state. A relieved Jun then demands a reason for her foolishness, only to be teased by Chie afterwards.

And so it begins. From that point on, every time Jun returns home, he finds her “dead” by different and increasingly outlandish causes. Jun soon begins to worry about her behaviour.

This year’s festival will also include a special feature namely “Music! Music! Music!”. Audience are expected to sing-along while enjoying these 3 musical-themed movies:

A female duo band Haru-Reo – who gained popularity with their indie music – decided to disband despite their success. After deciding to break up the unit, the two girls – together with their roadie, Shima – set out on a road trip for their final tour together and as they travel across the country, they realize the scars they created can only be healed on the stage.

As a band plays for a crowd in a certain town square in Osaka, a young man rushes the stage, grabs the microphone, and begins to sing. The crowd is blown away by the man’s singing voice. But after the performance, band manager Kasumi discovers that the man has no memory of his own life other than his talent for singing. Kasumi becomes interested in working with him anyway, and gives him the nickname “Pochi Otoko” – meaning dog man. Not long after that, he is accepted as the lead vocalist of a band, but a major problem from his past soon comes back to haunt him.

A high school band is popular in their small hometown in Okinawa where the U.S. army base is located. The band belts out original pop songs with such energy and precision that they have fired up the passions of all who see them and amassed an ardent following, including the attention of a Tokyo record label scout bent on producing them.

As the band members enjoy the happiest days in their young lives and prepares to set out on a path of fame and glory, a tragedy takes place. As a result, all their hopes and spirit are destroyed. Suddenly, a girl who’s been living in the U.S. army base appears with a demo tape of a song.

Dying to know the ending? Don’t forget to check out the full movie!

So what are you waiting for? Gather all your family and friends and book your tickets now! For more info on screenings as well as ticketing, click here.

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Kilafairy: The Malaysian Angelina Jolie

She’s an actress, a singer, a daughter to veteran 80s singer Rohana Jalil, a Malaysian, and more importantly, she’s Angelina Jolie’s doppelganger. Her name is Syakila Nisha Jangir Khan, otherwise known as Kilafairy.

The 20-year-old has the curves, the gaze, and more importantly, the pouty lips. And of course, she’s well aware of people talking about her uncanny resemblance to the gorgeous Hollywood A-lister. Of the frequent comparison that she gets from people, Kilafairy says, “I get (compared) all the time but what do you think? We’re really different! Maybe it is my jawline. I’ve been told my sharp features make me look like her. Hey, it’s a compliment for me but such an insult for her. She’s beautiful”.

She also added that that’s probably where the comparisons stop because while Angelina Jolie has had quite a dating history (read: a string of lovers, two ex-husbands, and Brad Pitt), Kilafairy has never had a boyfriend. And she’s not even looking!:

I’m just not eager to find a boyfriend. I think my biggest problem is that I don’t want to try. I only want to be with one person my whole life. I’ve don’t believe in dating. I want to wait for that one person that I will eventually marry. I will only date someone when there is a high chance of him being my life partner.

Of course, he must be understanding of my busy work life, put me first and love me unconditionally. And I love big families, so he must be ready to have eight children with me!

Kilafairy is currently in the midst of recording a new single and she hopes to release a mini album in the near future. She also recently finished filming a Bollywood- inspired drama series, “Cinta Agra”, which was shot in Agra, Delhi, and Kashmir.

As if acting and singing weren’t enough to keep her hands full, she also keeps herself busy with her boutique, “Rack”.


Are Ed Sheeran, Maroon 5 & Black Eyed Peas Bringing Their Concerts To Malaysia?

We’re always hoping that our favourite artists will include Malaysia in their world tour since we’re usually overlooked. It’s been proven that many dedicated fans are willing to spend a lot of money to buy tickets to see their idols live on stage.

However, with the hype surrounding Coldplay’s upcoming show in Kuala Lumpur, one must now stay vigilant online cause this Twitter user recently shared that scammers are taking advantage of the excitement to make easy money by selling fake concert tickets.

Yesterday (Tuesday, 16th May), Twitter user @iamdrjoe or Joe tweeted a screenshot of a suspicious advertisement he saw on Instagram to warn others of a potential scam. The ad showed a company called LiveTicket2U “announcing” that UK singer Ed Sheeran will be performing in Malaysia on 23rd September and that tickets are now on sale.

Skeptical of the IG ad, the dental surgeon did a little digging only to discover that Ed Sheeran will actually be touring the United States on the date mentioned in the poster, further proving his suspicions. The doctor then posted a video to show the scammer’s efforts of putting up a ticketing website that looks legitimate in order to fool their victims.

“Please don’t fall for their tricks. They’re doing the devil’s work,” he tweeted. Ed Sheeran wasn’t the only international act “announced” on the site as other artists such as Maroon 5, John Legend, The Boyz, and Black Eyed Peas were also being used to lure in the victims to purchase the fake tickets.

Joe’s posts quickly went viral and many netizens thanked the young man for warning everyone about the scam. Some also used the opportunity to post their findings in the Twitter thread of scammers and scalpers advertising ticket sales, especially for the upcoming Coldplay concert.

If you’ve come across any suspicious advertisements online, be sure to check their authenticity before giving away your personal details.


AirAsia Flight Carrying 133 Passengers From Wuhan Has Safely Landed

A special aircraft carrying Malaysians from Wuhan has safely arrived this morning (Tuesday, 4th February), at 5:57am.

The 133 passengers on board include 107 people who were stranded during the lockdown in Wuhan. According to Bernama, 88 of them are locals while 19 of them are non-citizen couples.

In addition, the AirAsia AK8264 flight, which departed from the Wuhan Tianhe International Airport, also carried 12 aircraft crews, 8 humanitarian personnels as well as 6 officers from the Malaysian embassy in Beijing.

The Health Ministry revealed earlier that all of the passengers, as well as the flight crews will undergo mandatory medical checkups at KLIA’s air disaster unit (ADU). Those who were affected with symptoms of coronavirus will be put to quarantine immediately. On the other hand, the rest will be sent to the monitoring centre for further examination.

However, it was recently revealed that a number of Malaysians who were supposed to join the flight have failed to do so due to logistic issues, as some of them were located outside of Wuhan. Additionally, a few of them have been facing with transportation difficulties. The initial number of 141 passengers on board was cut down to only 107.

So far, the number of cases recorded across China are as follows:

In another news, Oriental Daily recently reported about a Chinese woman who managed to scare a thief away after she claimed that she was infected with coronavirus. The lady was sleeping in her bedroom when a masked man entered her house.

As he attempted to rape her, the woman started coughing and said, “I just came back from Wuhan and I already have symptoms of an infection. So I stayed home and isolated myself”. The shocked man then fled the scene with her handphone and 80 yuan (RM47) in hand.

The 25-year-old culprit eventually surrendered to the cops and was put into administrative detention.

Source: Berita Harian (1)(2), Shanghaiist, Oriental Daily.

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