Fun Facts: 15 Things You Might Not Know About #Kingsman: The Secret Service

There’s a reason why director Matthew Vaughn decided to withdraw from directing “X-Men: Days of Future Past” to direct “Kingsman: The Secret Service” instead. He makes every fanboy’s wet dream come true by featuring ridiculous amounts of gore, a distinct lack of shaky cams, and an array of impressive spy gadgets for this spy movie. With blood and guts spurting everywhere, it came as no surprise that it is rated R by vast majority of the film boards.

“Kingsman: The Secret Service” centres on Gary “Eggsy” Unwin, a street kid who sways his way into a secret spy organisation his late father used to work in. He is portrayed by Hollywood newcomer Taron Egerton, who has clearly become a rising star through his breakthrough role in this movie.

While the film was highly praised by most of the movie critics, some left the cinemas in utter disappointment due to its crude and subversive jokes. Well, we don’t blame them because people are always going to have something to say about a movie that is filled with gore elements and silly jokes. It’s just a matter of how much viewers can take.

“Kingsman: The Secret Service” was officially released on 19th February this year and we can pretty much guarantee that it is an highly entertaining action-movie to watch. For those who’ve watched “Kick-Ass”, you will definitely enjoy this. But whether or not you’ve watched this movie, here are some of the things you might not know about “Kingsman: The Secret Service”:

*P.S: This article contain potential spoilers

1. It’s loosely based on “The Secret Service” comic book series by Mark Millar and Dave Gibbons

Mark Millar; you heard his name but you probably didn’t know that the comic book series he co-wrote with Dave Gibbons is the source of inspiration for director Matthew Vaughn to direct “Kingsman: The Secret Service”. The “X-Men: First Class” director made the movie loosely based on the 2012 spy comic book series, “The Secret Service”. Millar is best known for his work on comic books such as “The Authority”, “The Ultimates”, “Marvel Knights Spider-Man”, “Ultimate Fantastic Four”, “Civil War“, “Wanted”, and “Kick-Ass”.

However, unlike the comic series he created for Marvel and DC, there are only a total of 6 issues for the comic book series. Since Vaughn directed the movie loosely based on the series, some plot elements and characters were changed including the central character’s connection with his “uncle”.

2. Colin Firth did 80% of his own stunts

According to stunt coordinator and second unit director Bradley James Allen, Colin Firth did 80% of his own stunts. Considering how Jackie Chan (I mean, Datuk Jackie Chan) is one of the few actors who does most of his own stunts in action movies, this is indeed mind-blowing for us because not many of us would expect Colin Firth to do the same. However, that was exactly what director Matthew Vaughn wanted: To pull a surprise by messing with people’s expectations.

In order to portray gentleman spy Harry Hart, Firth had a training schedule that had him running around 3 hours a day for several weeks. The stunt work was a new experience for Firth and the training was obviously rigorous and painful. The Jackie Chan training team came to his house and made him work out for around 6 months so that he can be in top fighting shape and physical form. Brad Allen is a kung fu black belt who worked with Jackie Chan while Rudi Vrba is a Thai boxing world champion. The team also includes stuntman Rick English and an Olympic gold medal gymnast, Damien Walters. It is no wonder that Firth would describe the movie’s crack stunt as “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen” as they all had their own sets of skills.

3. In real life, Taron Egerton is scared of dogs

In one particular sequence, Taron Egerton’s Eggsy and other young candidates who are going under training for “the most dangerous job interview in the world” are required to train a dog of their choice. Eggsy chose a pug, which he initially thought was a bulldog. He may seem calm petting the dog but in real life, Egerton confessed that he is afraid of dogs. During an interview with Belfast Telegraph, Egerton said:

I like dogs, I just don’t choose to spend time with them. You know what, it’s something I’ve really only admitted to myself in the last couple of years: I think that I’m a bit scared of them.

He further claimed that he is more of “cat man” and hopes to gain a “feline friend” if there’s a sequel.

4. In the comic book series, “Star Wars” veteran Mark Hamill is one of the celebrities kidnapped by Professor Arnold

In the movie, “Star Wars” veteran Mark Hamill plays Professor James Arnold, a climate scientist who gets kidnapped by Samuel L. Jackson’s Richmond Valentine. The character was named after James Arnold Taylor, a fellow voice-artist and close friend of Mark Hamill and Mark Millar. However, in the comic book series, he happened to be one of the celebrities kidnapped by a villain called Dr. Arnold instead.

But that’s not all. Lady Gaga, Adele, David Beckham, and Elton John were also rumoured to appear in the movie but the rumour turned out to be untrue as they have merely appeared in the comic book series as the celebrities kidnapped by the villain. As Hamill plays Luke Skywalker who fought against the Imperial army in the original trilogy, Vaughn left an Easter egg by putting Imperial University under Arnold’s education.

Best known as the Nike Girl from Nike Women advertising campaigns, Sofia Boutella plays Gazelle, the villain’s henchwoman with bladed prosthetic legs. However, in the comic book series, Gazelle is a dark skinned muscleman with bionic legs given by Dr. Arnold. Double amputee snowboarder Amy Purdy was originally cast as  “Gazelle” but when the filming was delayed, she dropped out of the film so that she can join the Olympics.

Gazelle is not the only character that has gone through a gender tweak as the gender of some of Eggsy’s classmates were changed for the sake of gender equality.

6. Oscar Pistorius was offered to play Gazellle

Inspired by the 2012 Paralympics in London, the director wanted to have a character with a prosthetic leg similar to the “Flex-Foot Cheetah” as worn by paralympian sprinters. South African sprint runner Oscar Pistorius was offered to play the villainous role but he declined the offer so that he can focus on practicing for future sporting events.

In an ironic twist of fate, Pistorious shot and killed his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in February 2013. He shot Steenkamp through a door and in the movie, Gazelle did the same by shooting someone through a door.

7. The movie inspires Mr. Porter’s clothing line

Director Matthew Vaughn collaborated with costume designer Arianne Phillips and award-winning global men’s style retail tailors “MR PORTER” to combine the best international menswear for a new menswear label crafted especially for the movie. The full menswear line was created with tailoring and manufacturing by some of Britain’s most elite, famous, and trusted clothing brands. This is the first time a director came up with the idea for a full collection of clothing when the film was being developed.

Instead of the traditionally tailored and cut, Vaughn created the sleek, double breasted Kingsman suits for the actors. The price range will start at a $1,750 price point as the collection includes George Cleverley footwear, Turnbull & Asser shirts, Drakes’ ties, Cutler & Gross eyewear, Bremont timepieces, and Mackintosh outwear. Phillips is currently planning a spring 2015 collection and it might turn into a permanent new brand.

8. Richmond Valentine was originally intended to not have a lisp

Just like most of the villains in the James Bond franchise, Samuel L. Jackson’s character of Richmond Valentine has some form of physical physical dysfunction or abnormality. In this case, Jackson plays a silly version of a Bond villain with his ridiculous lisp. He completed his first take with a lisp but it was later revealed that his character wasn’t supposed to have a lisp.

Prior to having an acting career, Jackson revealed to the director he actually had a lisp before. However, he was able to overcome it. With the lisp, he jokingly remarked that it is Valentine’s intention for being villainous.

9. The church fight scene is censored in Indonesia

The brutal church fight scene is considered the best scene in “Kingsman: The Secret Service” as the epic climactic fight sequence was shot in just one take. However, censorship is an issue with all cinematic releases and the scene was ultimately censored by the film boards in Indonesia.

According to Zero Sumo, the brutal church fight scene was censored in Indonesia by LSP. The scene was deemed not suitable for the audiences as the film board fears it might offend Christians. Ironically, the sexually suggestive ending scene was not removed.

10. How Vaughn decided to use “Free Bird”

In “X-Men: Days of Future Past“, director Bryan Singer used Jim Croce’s “Time In A Bottle” for one of the most iconic scenes in the movie. But for “Kingsman: The Secret Service”, Vaughn used one of the longer guitar solos for the church fight scene, which is said to be the best scene in the entire movie. When asked about his inspiration for the soundtrack, Vaughn stated that he originally used Gun N’ Roses’ “November Rain” for that particular scene. However, since the guitar solo is not long enough and darker than he realised, he went online to search for “great long American guitar solos” instead.

The first song that came up on search results is Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird” and thus, Vaughn decided to use it. A friend of his, Charles Martin, did a remix on the song and fortunately, it fits perfectly into the scene.

Director Matthew Vaughn told US Today in an interview that the movie would have a sequel if the movie does well in America.

A lot of people are very upset that Colin might not be in the sequel but I’m coming up with ideas at the moment. If people buy tickets in America, I’ve got a feeling we’ll figure out a way for having Colin back.

Bringing back Colin Firth is highly unlikely but there are tons of ways to bring his character back from the dead. Thus, Vaughn made it clear that the sequel would probably still put Eggsy as the central character.

The sequel will be “This is the modern-day gentleman spy.” Because Harry isn’t. Harry even says, “There is a reason why we’ve developed weak chins.” He said that meaning, “Look at us, we need to get new blood into this system,” and that’s what Eggsy is. I joke that we’ve made the prequel to the Eggsy movie.

12. More than 60 young actors were screen-tested for the role of Gary “Eggsy” Unwin

Before Taron Egerton officially joined the cast of the film, more than 60 young actors were screen-tested for the role of Gary ‘Eggsy‘ Unwin. “Kick-Ass” actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson was originally offered the role but he declined the offer because he is set to play Quicksilver in Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron”.

After a long search for the movie’s lead character, relatively unknown Welsh actor Taron Egerton emerged as one of the frontrunners for the part alongside Jack O’Connell and John Boyega. Vaughn eventually casted Egerton because he “had a like-ability about him which was so unique”.

13. Emma Watson and Bella Heathcole were eyed for the female lead role of Roxy

Newcomer Sophie Cookson plays the female lead role of Roxy, one of the young candidates for the next Lancelot in Kingsman. Before Cooskon was cast as Roxy, Hollywood A-listers Emma Watson and Bella Heathcote were considered to play the female lead role. Best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the “Harry Potter” film franchise, Emma Watson was being widely tipped for the part. “Dark Shadow” star Bella Heathcote was also rumoured to play Roxy but Sophie Cookson managed to beat both Watson and Heathcote for the part in the Vaughn-directed movie.

As for the role of arch-villain Richmond Valentine, Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Cruise, and Idris Elba were considered for the part but Vaughn eventually casted Samuel L. Jackson.

14. Taron Egerton worked out very hard to a size 88 kilos (194 pounds) and just 5 percent body fat for the movie

As a relatively new actor in the film industry, Taron Egerton worked really hard for his part as he felt it was “necessary to show muscle definition if you are going to save the world”. Just like Colin Firth, he worked out for months to get in shape and eventually built 6-pack abs for his shirtless scenes. He reportedly got up to a size 88 kilos (194 pounds) and just 5% body fat just for his role.

Although it “required a lifestyle change” and “total commitment to living a certain way and being very militant about what you eat”, he said he enjoyed the experience and would definitely do it again if there is a sequel.

15. The underwater scene that almost went horrifically wrong

In the movie, the Kingsman recruits were having their first night’s sleep interrupted by a deluge of water pouring into their dorm. However, the scene almost went horrifically wrong as the cast nearly drowned on set after the computers went rogue.

I shouted “Action!”, the computer got it wrong and, vrrrrrssshhh… [everyone was] 20 feet down. Cameras, sound guys… guys were in waders full of water, panic, everyone diving in, pulling people out.

The set-up was painstakingly planned and rehearsed using height markers and computer-programmed water tanks but it got washed away after the computers went rogue. “Those actors were not acting, they were absolutely terrified,” Vaughn said. “It was awful, the first day of filming. Very, very tough.”

“Kingsman: The Secret Service” is rated R and opens nationwide on 18th February 2015.

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

(Source: EW (1) (2), Belfast Telegraph, USA Today, THR, IMDb, Cinema Blend / Featured image: 20th Century Fox)

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#Disneyland: Disney Unveils Detailed First Look At Shanghai Disneyland

You may or may not remember that time we wrote about the top theme parks in Asia, which included some upcoming parks that we were looking forward to.

Today, we’re celebrating and squealing with glee because finally, we’ve got more details (read: pictures) on Shanghai Disneyland!

The Walt Disney Company unveiled key creative elements of Shanghai Disney Resort and its theme park, Shanghai Disneyland, including details of the park’s 6 themed lands filled with world-class attractions and live entertainment spectaculars – many of them a first for a Disney park. The resort will take the best of Disney and deliver it in a way that is especially created for the people of China.

During the special presentation, held at the Shanghai Expo Centre, Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger revealed a scale model of the Disneyland Park.

The model showcased the 6 key lands: Treasure Cove, Mickey Avenue, Adventure Isle, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Gardens of Imagination. The resort will also include 2 hotels, the lakeside Wishing Star Park, and Disneytown – a shopping, dining, and entertainment district.

In addition to Disney’s legendary storytelling, exceptional guest service, classic attractions such as Dumbo the Flying Elephant and Peter Pan’s Flight, a Disney parade and nighttime fireworks spectacular, there will be many attractions, shows, and experiences debuting in China.

Of course, Mickey Mouse and all of his pals will be on hand to greet guests when Shanghai Disney Resort opens its gates ;)

More artist impressions in the gallery below:

With parks in Paris, Tokyo, and Hong Kong, the Shanghai park will be Disney’s 4th outside of the US. The biggest project in Asia, Shanghai Disneyland was expanded in June, bringing the estimated cost to a total USD5.4 billion.

Disney Resort is a joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and Shanghai Shendi Group and is expected to open by the end of 2015.

For more information, visit their website.


BIGBANG’s G-Dragon: 4 Fun Facts About His Solo Comeback

There is no mistaking the power of K-pop fans. G-Dragon (real name Kwon Ji Yong, 권지용) currently has 2 hashtags trending globally.

Excited K-fans are welcoming back the King of K-pop with #GDRAGONISCOMING as well as #THERETURNOFTHEKINGOFKPOP on social media. Here’s what we know about his impending comeback so far:

Earlier today (Monday, 2nd November), OSEN reported that the BIGBANG member has been preparing for his new album. YG Entertainment later confirmed, “It is true that G-Dragon is working on new music.”

His last EP was released back in 2017, titled “Kwon Ji Yong”. On the other hand, BIGBANG’s last release was the single “Flower Road” in 2018.

Just recently, G-Dragon also posted some behind-the scenes look at his recording sessions at a studio. Thanks to Vogue Korea, who did a feature on him, we were also treated to a 2-minute video of the superstar.

Back in 2014, GD expressed that Pharrell Williams is “the artist that I want to work with the most.” The duo officially met in person at the latter’s “G I R L” Exhibition at Galerie Perrotin in Paris. They have since remained in contact, and yes, fans are still hoping for a track from them.

Die-hard supporters can also expect the K-pop idol to work with frequent collaborators such as Teddy, Choice37, and perhaps Missy Elliott, Diplo and Baauer (who were featured on his previous records).

When reflecting about the songs he wrote during his 20s, G-Dragon said:

“They are like a diary because I tend to write about my personal experiences. If I hadn’t written about them, I’d have forgotten everything because I’ve been so busy. When I listen to my songs at a later time, I think to myself, ‘Ah, that was then.’ Or, I realise how my thoughts and perspective have changed over time. I also sometimes go through similar ordeals again.”

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#Facebook: New Tools Allow You To Conveniently Hide Your Ex After A Breakup

Had a bad breakup and mulling over unfriending your ex on Facebook? Or still not over that really bad breakup a year ago but you keep seeing the trail of your ex’s “new life” all over your news feed?

It’s like rubbing salt to wound, isn’t it?

Sure, you can hide him/her, unfriend them (if you have the heart to do so), or straight up block them (if you’re that angry), but is it enough to sever ties when you may still be tagged in his/her pictures or see his/her name pop up as a suggestion when you write a status update?

Never fear, Facebook’s new tools are here! Apparently, the social media giant is rolling out new tools which will have 3 major components:

The new tools will pop up when you change your relationship status and make it “Facebook official”.

The tools are part of a test in the US on mobile, after which Facebook will make tweaks/changes before rolling them out further based on people’s feedback.

Facebook product manager Kelly Winters went on to explain:

Facebook is a place for sharing life’s important moments, which for many people include their romantic relationships. When a relationship ends, we’ve heard from people that they sometimes have questions about the options available to them on Facebook.

“This work is part of our ongoing effort to develop resources for people who may be going through difficult moments in their lives. We hope these tools will help people end relationships on Facebook with greater ease, comfort and sense of control,” she added.

All of these tools are optional and people will be able to access them in the help center anytime.

How convenient and considerate! Nice one, Facebook :)


#SabahQuake: Disrespectful Actions On #MtKinabalu Are Not Unprecedented

It seems like the recent case of tourists stripping on Mount Kinabalu wasn’t the first of its kind.

Similar cases had happened, according to veteran mountain guide Suhaji Sumail. He has seen tourists committing disrespectful actions, such as spiting, littering and shouting vulgarities while trekking up the mountain.

Throughout his 40-year tenure as a guide, the 63-year-old native from Kundasang said that some of the tourists disregarded the local customs and even went to the extend of exposing their genitalia by urinating and defecating indiscriminately. Sumail expressed his disapproval over the offenses and stated that “he still remembers his parents warning him to seek permission before answering the call of nature”.

All these are strictly taboo for Sabah’s ethnic communities who firmly believe in a certain code of conduct while on the mountain or at waterfalls or in the jungle. When I was young and wanted to go up the mountain for the 1st time, my parents held a ritual and asked permission for me to go up and return safely.

“And if we were to feel or see or hear anything unusual, we should pass by the area quietly and not say anything. We have always believed in “penunggu” or guardian spirits on the mountain and at waterfalls,” he explained further.

Yesterday (8th June), it was reported that Sabah Deputy Sabah Chief Minister Joseph Pairin Kitingan blamed the 10 tourists who stripped naked and took a photo on Mount Kinabalu for causing the Sabah earthquake. Sabah natives believe that the tourists may have angered the protectors of the mountain (known as “aki” by the natives) by showing “disrespect to the sacred mountain”. The tourists also allegedly called their mountain guide “stupid” and told him to “go to hell”.

Many locals, including Sumail, believed that Friday’s unfortunate earthquake was indeed a punishment for the grave offences. The guide even gave a solution to counter the anger of the protectors of the mountains:

I hope Sabah Parks will organise a ritual to appease the mountain spirits as soon as possible.

The ritual is named “Monolob”, and is organised yearly to appease the mountain spirit. The ceremony is performed by the council of elders of Mount Kinabalu and involves the sacrifice of 7 white-feathered chickens and white eggs. The “Monolob” ritual is held not only to obtain blessing from the mountain spirits, but it is also a way to seek forgiveness for all the disrespectful actions committed on the mountain by tourists and locals alike.

On Sunday (7th June), council member Richard Soibi said that the ritual would go forward without any difficulties, provided that “all parties in the Dusun community including the mountain guides agree to do it”.

Soibi, who is also the Mount Kinabalu mountain guides chief, stated that, “It’s also a psychological healing process to ease those who have been traumatised with the tragedy.”

Sources: The Star Online, New Straits Times

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August Alsina Sings About His Affair With Jada Pinkett Smith In New Single

August Alsina is putting his own spin on the term “entanglement” with Jada Pinkett Smith by releasing a brand new single, aptly titled “Entanglements”.

This comes following Jada’s viral episode of “Red Table Talk” with husband Will Smith. The singer’s song appears to shed light on the public fling between the two public figures.

“The definition of entanglement / It’s when you’re tangled in the sheets / Girl I know that we don’t call it a relationship / But you’re still f**kin’ with me,” August sings on the chorus. Besides telling his fling about his “darkest stories” and being “her little secret”, rapper Rick Ross adds, “Saddest part is I still love you, just to keep it simple.”

During the “Red Table Talk” session, Jada vehemently denied that Will gave them permission to engage in the “entanglement”. The actress did clarify that August wasn’t a home wrecker since she and Will were separated at the time.

However, in speaking with Vulture last week, the R&B singer stands by his original statement. “That’s all I can really say about that. All I have is my truth, and all I have is my truth to stand on it. I don’t have any reason to lie about anything,” August told the publication.

The revealing song also included the lyrics, “You left your man to f**k with me, just to pay him back. Don’t you know that’s cold hearted?”


John Krasinski & Emily Blunt On Joining MCU For Fantastic Four Reboot

Marvel Studios is set to kick off the next phase of Marvel Cinematic Universe and we’re all curious about the updates on the reboots of “Fantastic Four” and “X-Men” franchises.

For the longest time, fans have been campaigning for John Krasinski and Emily Blunt to play Mister Fantastic and The Invisible Woman. Is it happening though?

During the recent press junket for “A Quiet Place: Part II”, the Hollywood power couple was asked about the possibility of joining the extensive MCU family. In speaking with Krasinski, ComicBook.com pointed out that the actor even looks like Reed Richards now. But has Marvel boss Kevin Feige reached out?

“I would love to do it. I think to be a part of the Marvel world would be amazing anyway, and the fact that people would even consider me for that level of a part would be amazing. I genuinely have had no conversations or don’t know anything that’s happening with that. I’m awaiting Kevin’s announcements of what the hell’s happening with that as much as you are,” the 40-year-old actor said.

While Krasinski is definitely keen on playing Mister Fantastic, Blunt told ComicBook.com that nothing is set in stone until Marvel makes an official decision. “Well I don’t know, you’re gonna have to speak to Feige about it, right? No, fan casting is obviously so flattering and lovely, but I don’t see it as anything other than hypothetical until they cast someone else,” the 37-year-old actress was quoted as saying.

Blunt’s answer is probably not what hard core fans were hoping for, but this isn’t first time the star has been linked to the MCU. She was previously offered the role of Black Widow, which eventually went to Scarlett Johansson. Blunt was also in the running to play Peggy Carter too. Hayley Atwell eventually got the role.

Likwise, Krasinski was about to play Captain America – until Chris Evans came along.


#USS: “Battlestar Galactica: HUMAN vs CYLON” Ride To Reopen This Wednesday!

Universal Studios Singapore’s “Battlestar Galactica: HUMAN vs CYLON” will reopen on Wednesday (27th May), Resorts World Sentosa announced in a media release on Monday (25th May).

Touted as the world’s tallest duelling roller coasters, Resorts World Sentosa said the roller coaster will feature new 2-seater ride vehicles.

In November last year, RWS said the new ride vehicles will give riders a “more intimate and personal ride experience”, while the tracks of the roller coaster itself remains the same. According to Dejiki, the new ride vehicles are noticeably quieter and smoother on the “Human” track. As such, the coaster experience might be less bumpy and rickety than the one in the past.

The ride has been closed since 21st July 2013, a period of almost 22 months. In response to media queries at the time, Universal Studios Singapore said the ride had been closed for an attraction review, and no details were given about the reasons why or how long the review would take.

It wasn’t the first time the coaster was closed as Universal Studios Singapore has previously closed the coaster for 11 months due to a technical problem in the design of the ride vehicles. It was also closed a week into the theme park’s opening in March 2010, after a seat became “detached” during routine tests. The coaster reopened 9 months later.

In any case, it’s time to make that trip down to Singapore! Perhaps over a long weekend soon?

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Hype’s Now Playing: MGMT — Alien Days

Alien Days makes its way to us fellow aliens!

Alien Days the single from MGMT’s self-titled third album was first release on September 17th, 2013. Staying true to themselves and matching the title of the song, the video to Alien Days is no short of bizarre antics. The psychedelic electronic duo’s video opens on a supernatural scribe who leads a Puritan couple out to the woods before he straps them to a giant gyroscope and send them spinning.

The eccentric video is then bombarded with blooming sunflowers and dancing aliens as the couple finds themselves with a child on the way.


Bloody Pics From Oscar Pistorius’ Home Leaked

Photographs purportedly showing the blood-spattered bathroom where Olympian Oscar Pistorius fatally shot girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp have emerged, apparently showing the scene of the killing for the first time.

The photos surfaced just days before the double amputee track star is due to appear in court, charged with murdering Steenkamp in his Pretoria home in the early hours of February 14. The images published by Sky News show a trail of blood leading from a bathroom; blood on the walls, stairs and a couch inside the house, and a Valentine’s Day card with “Ozzy” written on it – Steenkamp’s nickname for her sprinter boyfriend.

The photo of the bathroom shows a toilet covered in blood, a door with a missing panel and what appear to be two police-marked bullet holes below the level of the door’s handle. CNN has not been able to independently confirm the authenticity of the photos, and police spokesman Brigadiere Phuti Setati declined to comment on how Sky News obtained the pictures.

The runner says he thought there was an intruder in the house and, fearful of being attacked, ran on his stumps to the bathroom, where he shot through the door from a relatively low angle four times. It was only upon returning to his bedroom, Pistorius says, that he realized Steenkamp was not in bed and that she had been the one in the bathroom.

The state says it was premeditated murder — that Pistorius had an argument with Steenkamp then put on his prosthetic legs, walked to the bathroom, and shot through the door from a relatively higher angle, intentionally killing his girlfriend.


MPH Explains Reason Behind Several Bookstores Closures Across Malaysia

MPH Group Sdn Bhd is finally shedding some light on the reason behind the closure of some of MPH bookstore branches’ operations, as previously reported.

In a statement provided to SAYS, the company is “pursuing a new venture” and currently transitioning to an “e-commerce cum digitalised ecosystem”, at the same time remaining some of its key physical stores to continue operating.

CEO Donald Kee explained, “We want to be able to connect with our customers through multiple touch points, be it online or offline by adopting an omni-channel approach.”  It is also understood that they came to such decision due to the sudden increase in sales on the MPHOnline.com site throughout the movement control order (MCO) period.

Kee also announced that the company is planning to develop high-tech vending machines as one of their latest attractions for the customers’ convenience. The machines, which will be located in several strategic areas such as train stations, universities and hospitals, will allow customers to pick up the book that they have ordered online.

MPH Groups concluded by expressing their hope that the MPH brand will stay relevant to Malaysians through the introduction of these digital transformation initiatives.


Pussycat Dolls Members Want Nicole Scherzinger To Take Back Seat For Reunion

The Pussycat Dolls getting back together might be the biggest reunion since Spice Girls – if this is true.

For years, we’ve been led to believe that Nicole Scherzinger and the ladies are planning a massive comeback with a tour to mark the 10th anniversary of their hiatus. This time though, the members are demanding to have an equal size of the pie.

“Before they took a break in 2009, Nicole had become the lead singer of the group. It felt natural at the time but now they’re starting planning the tour, some of the girls have demanded Nicole take a back seat,” an insider was quoted as saying.

The source added, “In the old days Nicole became the stand-out star next to Melody Thornton, Kimberly Wyatt, Ashley Roberts, Carmit Bachar and Jessica Sutta. But for the reunion, the women want it to be more of a level playing field.”

While most of The Pussycat Dolls members were previously onboard with the idea, Carmit Bachar (who quit the group in February 2008) wasn’t keen. Nobody wants to settle for being just a backup dancer right?

The Sun UK continued, “Melody’s camp have pushed for talks to iron out all the kinks beforehand. They don’t want anyone to feel sidelined, as it’s supposed to be a celebration of the group as a whole. Nicole has been totally laid back about the entire thing and wants all the girls to shine in their own right.”

You can watch Scherzinger teasing a potential PCD reunion here:

Despite only releasing 2 studio albums, PCD has churn out a string of hits including “Don’t Cha”, “Buttons”, “When I Grow Up” and “Jai Ho! (You Are My Destiny)”.

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#FiftyShades: #Grey, The New Version Of The “50 Shades” Trilogy, Stolen

Oh dear, there’s a chance that the new “50 Shades” trilogy book might get “released” (albeit illegaly) earlier than expected!

On 1st June, EL James announced that she will release a new version of the book written from Christian’s point of view. Titled, “Grey”, the book will be aptly published on 18th June aka Christian Grey’s birthday. The best-selling author says on the opening page of the new book that the work is a response to readers who “asked…and asked…and asked…” for a tale told from his perspective.

Upon the official reveal, EL James said in a statement:

Christian is a complex character, and readers have always been fascinated by his desires and motivations, and his troubled past. Also, as anyone who has ever been in a relationship knows, there are two sides to every story. It’s been a great pleasure to return to my happy place — writing, being with Christian and Ana in their universe, and working with the fantastic team at Vintage.

According to Reuters via CNA, EL James’ British publisher Random House confirmed on Wedneday (10th June) that a copy of “Grey” has been stolen and that police are currently investigating reports. Reports of the book’s theft had been circulating, raising fears that it could be leaked or that extracts could be sold to the media.

However, a publicity firm representing Random House said that it would still be published as scheduled on 18th June. “We have no further comment to make due to an ongoing police investigation,” the statement said.

A post shared by E L James (@erikaljames)

Eep! As much as we’re excited to read Christian Grey’s take on one of the most successful series in the history of publishing, we sure hope that they find that missing copy soon!

Meanwhile, the film version of the first installment of EL James’ trilogy came out in February, and the next 2, “Fifty Shades Darker” and “Fifty Shades Freed”, are due out in 2017 and 2018, respectively.


#HelloKitty: She’s Not What You Thought She Was

First things first, sorry for ruining your childhood dreams, Hello Kitty fans.

As Sanrio and Hello Kitty lovers gear up to celebrate the 40th birthday of the iconic “cat”, new findings have surfaced about her true origins.

Christine R. Yano, an anthropologist from the University of Hawaii (and currently a visiting professor at Harvard) who has spent years studying the phenomenon that is the “cat”, is suggesting that Hello Kitty is not a cat, as previously assumed by many for 40 whole years.

When Yano was preparing her written texts for the “Hello! Exploring the Supercute World of Hello Kitty” exhibit at the Japanese American National Museum, she described Hello Kitty as a cat. “I was corrected — very firmly. That’s one correction Sanrio made for my script for the show. Hello Kitty is not a cat. She’s a cartoon character. She is a little girl. She is a friend. But she is not a cat. She’s never depicted on all fours. She walks and sits like a two-legged creature,” she said.

She added, “She does have a pet cat of her own, however, and it’s called Charmmy Kitty.”

Actually, everything that Yano has suggested is true because the following has also been stated here:

Hello Kitty (ハローキティ Harōkiti) (full name Kitty White (キティ・ホワイト Kiti howaito) is a fictional character produced by the Japanese company Sanrio, first designed by Yuko Shimizu. She bears the appearance of a white Japanese bobtail cat with a red bow although she is actually little girl.

Again, sorry for ruining your childhood dreams. We just got ours ruined too.

Meanwhile, here’s one childhood dream that won’t get ruined anytime soon – the chance of a lifetime opportunity to fly in a Hello Kitty-themed plane!

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Long Queues As Locals Flock To Telco Stores To Buy Latest iPhone 12

Although the 11.11 sale was just days ago, numerous Malaysians were not done yet.

As you may know, the new iPhone 12 models have officially went on sale yesterday (Friday, 13th November). Prices for the new mobile phones are between RM3,399 and RM6,699.

Telco stores around Malaysia were flooded with people queueing up to get their hands on the latest iPhone 12. Social media posts show long queues of Apple users standing outside Apple stores, Maxis stores, Thunder outlets, and more. Word on the street has it that a few individuals were even willing to wait in line for iPhone buyers for a fee.

A quick look at reseller sites also show that people have already started to resell their new iPhone 12 for a higher price.

If you’re on postpaid, check out all the comparing prices for all iPhone 12 models from Maxis, Digi, Celcom, and U Mobile here.


Hype’s Now Playing: Porter Robinson – Sad Machine (Didrick & Ember Island Cover)

Prepare your feels, it’s about to get a whole lot more heartening.

Porter Robinson‘s debut album “World” is arguably one the most beautiful albums released this year. To say that it is a work of art that is both tantalising and imaginative in its own right is an understatement as the album featured an expertly composed collection, inspired by Japanese culture and sentimental video games.

The album takes listeners and fans on an otherworldly journey, as such, it is only standard protocol for the EDM world to bring remixes and covers of his album, and pretty much every track on this album has been spread. Following the success of his album, the 22-year-old American DJ/producer has said that the track “Sad Machine” is one of his favourites on the album.

Fortunately, most of the singles covered on “Worlds” still maintain a high level of integrity and robustness compared to their original compositions. One remix that really stands out though is none other than Didrick & Ember Island’s cover of “Sad Machine”.

The acoustic rendition of “Sad Machine” by Didrick & Ember Island is so bone-chilling that it will definitely get all up in your feels. Produced and arranged by Didrick, the track is a definite game-changer for the young musician and has definitely placed him on the map. Swedish indie band Ember Island sends chilling vocals to the rework, providing fans and listeners with a soulful take on Porter’s lyrics that the original robotic vocaloid was missing.

While, Didrick and Ember Island may not be household names as of yet, we at Hype Malaysia can’t wait to see what will come next from these artistes. Plus, if Porter is happy with the cover, then this is definitely something worth listening to.


Petrol & Diesel Prices Malaysia For 26th October – 1st November 2017

Oh no, here we go again. Pump prices for fuel will see an increase again.

Starting from Thursday midnight (26th October) onwards, our source states that petrol prices for RON95 and RON97 will go up. However, the price of diesel will remain the same.

The expected prices for petrol and diesel for 26th October – 1st November 2017 are:

The current prices for 19th October – 25th October 2017 are:

We will update the fuel prices should the official announcement differs from aforementioned prices.

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Stars React To Lance’s #LiveWrong

The world continues to reel from Lance Armstrong’s doping confession on his exclusive interview with Oprah. Even Hollywood’s top celebrities have been quick to react to the disgraced Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong’s flurry of “I admit”s.

Actor Matthew McConaughey, who happens to be one of Lance Armstrong’s long-term friends, was especially vocal with how it has affected him when he told MTV News:

My first reaction was I was p*ssed off. I was mad. I then got kind of sad for him. First off, I had a part of me that took it kind of personally, which I think a lot of people have. For him, it was impersonal because he was living a lie. It was a whole unanimous façade he had to carry around. What I realized is that those of us that took that personally, like, “Oh, he lied to me”, it’s not true. What I mean by this is, what was he supposed to do? Call me to the side and go, “Hey man, I did it but don’t tell anybody”? Where I am now is I’ve put myself out of the way and I am happy for this guy, who has now chosen to re-enter this new chapter of his life a truly free man.

Matthew McConaughey and Lance Armstrong have trained together for marathons in the past, as well as doing charity work and taking holidays together. However, Lance has never once confided in Matthew about his use of performance-enhancing drugs throughout his career.

The long-awaited admission, which aired last week, also drew instant responses from the stars who all took it to Twitter to describe how the feel about all that cheating:

Oh, Lance. Now look what you’ve gone and done.


Kedah Muslim Group Suggests “Do Not Go Near Dogs” Campaign

In response to the recent “I Want to Touch a Dog” event, the director of the Persatuan Jemaah Pondok-pondok Kedah, Sobri Osman suggested to have a “Do Not Go Near Dogs” campaign instead to educate the Muslims about the proper way of handling dogs.

According to The Star, Sobri Osman urged the authorities to prevent a similar programme like “I Want to Touch a Dog” that took place at One Utama Central Park in Petaling Jaya from happening again in the future.

“I want to touch a dog” event should not have been allowed and the participation of Muslims clearly reflected their shallow knowledge of their religion,” said Osman who told the reporters that the programme is an insult of Islam.

With a slight change to the programme’s title, he suggested to hold a campaign “Do Not Go Near Dogs” if the objective was to educate Muslims on the proper way of handling dogs. He also asked Muslims to cleanse themselves should they happen to touch the wet parts of the dogs.

If they are confident that they were dry and the dogs they touched were also dry, it is not necessary for them to do so. Otherwise, they should do the proper cleansing method or their prayers will not be accepted

Organised by Syed Azmi, the objective of the controversial programme is to help Malaysians familiarise themselves with dogs and overcome their fear of dogs. The event also hopes to essentially help erase the negative cultural stigma attached to dogs e.g. dogs are unclean, it’s illegal for Muslims to touch dogs, etc. However, it has been widely criticised despite its major success.

So, what do you think of the proposal of “Do Not Go Near Dogs” campaign? Do you think it’s necessary to do it? Let us know in the comments box below.


#MH17: MAS Retires Flight Number Out Of Respect

Malaysia Airlines (MAS) is set to retire flight number #MH17 out of respect for the crew and passengers who perished on the ill-fated flight that was reportedly shot down by separatist.

In an official press statement released today, MAS stated:

In light of the recent incident, Malaysia Airlines’ Amsterdam (AMS) – Kuala Lumpur (KUL) service, MH17 flight number will be retired out of respect for our crew and passengers of the mentioned flight code. This will take into effect on 25 July 2014.

There are no changes to the frequency of our services and we will continue to operate daily services between Amsterdam and Kuala Lumpur.

The new flight number replacing MH17 will be: MH19 – AMS/KUL

Our thoughts and prayers remains with the families of our colleagues and passengers of MH 17.

MH17 disappeared from radar screens in eastern Ukraine on 17th July, hours after taking off from Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport bound for Kuala Lumpur. The Boeing 777 is believed to have been shot down 50km from the Ukraine-Russia border.

All 298 passengers and crew on board, including 44 Malaysians, are believed to have perished:

Passenger manifest for flight MH17 can be viewed here.

The same was done in March this year when Malaysia Airlines’ Beijing-bound passenger jet #MH370 vanished without a trace. Flight codes MH370 and MH371 were retired as a mark of respect to the 239 people who were on board. The Kuala Lumpur-Beijing service (formerly MH370) has now taken on the code MH318, while the return route will switch from MH371 to MH319.

Meanwhile, Malaysia flags will fly at half-mast until tomorrow (21st July, Monday) as the country mourns the deaths of passengers and crew onboard.

For more timely and verified updates regarding MH17, please visit Malaysia Airlines’ official website and follow their Twitter account. Alternatively the family or friends may call the numbers below in their respective countries:

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and loved ones of those who were on board the MH17 flight. Here’s special Spotify playlist in remembrance of the lives that were lost.

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Namewee’s CNY Video Hits 1.8 Million Views In Less Than 5 Days

Covid cases have been on the rise in recent months. This leaves many of us wondering if Chinese New Year will happen. Many fear being unable to return to their hometowns for the family reunion next month.

Malaysian rapper Wee Meng Chee (黄明志), or Namewee, shares the sentiment. He recently released a new single titled “Return With A Smile”, dedicating it to all who are far from home.

The song expresses longing for one’s hometown and captures the tired yet relieved emotions one has when arriving at a place they call home. The lyrics themselves detail the journey home, one that many can relate with.

Namewee has remained true to himself even in a melancholic song such as this. He talks about the exhaustion one feels from living day to day and how returning home is reinvigorating.

The song ends on a hopeful note, with a declaration that no matter what life throws at you, “Home is my journey’s end and where I belong“. It may not be the typical Chinese New Year song we expected, but it’s one that we can resonate with.

Do you need some tissue? The heartwarming video has since garnered over 1.8 million views in 5 days.

Since its release 20 days ago, the music video has accumulated almost 3.8 million views!


The Doors To The New Social & Community Café Are Now Open

One of the fastest growing franchises in Malaysia, with more than 50 outlets nationwide, can now add yet another achievement to their CV.

Just last night, Chatime Malaysia announced the launch of “The New Social & Community Café”, one of the five planned for this year, Chatime Galleria. Located in Bandar Puteri Puchong, this outlet is specially designed as a premium-concept café with the same range of well-loved drinks on top of a brand new snack menu.

You got that right. Chatime serves food now!

At the launch, Bryan Loo (CEO of Chatime Malaysia) said, “Chatime Galleria is the place where ideas, music, and events come together. As a social and community café, we ave teamed up with Malaysian talents, creative minds, and community groups to plan a series of culturally enriching events for residents and businesses in each area.”

“Over the next few months, Chatime Galleria will play host to events by CultureRun, a business that advocates communal skill-sharing and learning, PoskodMY’s #BetterKL, a creative grassroots campaign on improving urban living, and the Malaysia Ukulele Group, a community of music enthusiasts and ukulele lovers”, he added.

And it sure does look like they’ve got in down pat because the layout and space of Chatime Galleria appears to have multiple purposes, be it for private events or parties. Aherm. Parties like the “Chatime Party” at the launch, of course:

[youtube id=”CKId0V1kwP4″ width=”600″ height=”350″]

We’re thinking, where better to have music events, performances, and art showcases with a large serving of your favourite Taiwanese bubble tea in hand? Right?

We’ve already had that experience once, last night, when Chatime Malaysia took the liberty of inviting some of our favourite local talents to perform at the opening. Local singer-songwriters Bihzhu, Liyana Fizi, and The Impatient Sisters serenaded us with acoustic performances as we helped ourselves to dosages and dosages of free flow pearl milk tea.

For more pictures from the Chatime Galleria launch, go here.

For more information, visit their official website or their Facebook page.

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Interview: Ma Dong-seok (Don Lee) On What He Likes About Costar Son Suk-ku

“The Roundup” or “The Outlaws 2” (범죄도시2) has enjoyed incredible box office success (and broke a few records) since it debuted earlier this year. Regardless if you haven’t had the chance to watch it on the big screen or want to watch it again, this crime action film will be making its way to streaming platforms this weekend.

In case you didn’t know, production for the follow-up sequel “The Roundup: Punishment” (범죄도시4) is already underway. Ma Dong-seok (Don Lee, 마동석) has been keeping fans up to date with the filming progress. While we wait for that, do check out this interview where the 51-year-old South Korean actor talked about his experience on “The Roundup”.

What experience will the audience have when watching “The Roundup”?

“The Roundup” is a story about detectives making the city free of crime. We have a ferocious new villain and a great line-up of characters. I hope you can see how criminals are always brought to justice.

Many people have been waiting for a mind-lowing crime action film. Do you sense great anticipation for this film?

“The Roundup” has a bigger scale than “The Outlaws” and one of the best things about “The Outlaws” is that all the characters are full of life. This time there are more characters with even greater punch. You will have fun just watching these actors play their roles. You mentioned mind-blowing action. Actually, that’s the film’s kick. Mr Son Suk-ku has made some exceptional action scenes, you will see how great Suk-ku is in action scenes.

What does the character Ma Seok-do mean to you?

Ma Seok-do, as a character, has a lot of “me” in it. First of all, it has my childhood dream of becoming a police. And as an actor, I always want to do detective or action films, but those roles didn’t really come to me. So I thought “I should create one” when I participated in producing this film. I spent half of my life boxing and the other half acting. I wanted to show some action in this film. To me, the character of Ma Seok-do is like myself. Both the film and the character have a huge meaning to me.

What is your chemistry with Mr Son Suk-ku (who plays the villain in the film) like?

It is my first time filming with Suk-ku. But I can tell how carefully he studied his character. He always has more questions for his characters and he always studies. He put in so much effort. I appreciate it as a co-star and producer of the film. It is my first time, but it felt so natural to work with him.

Any messages that you like to share with fans abroad?

Thank you for watching my films. You are even watching Korean films through subtitles. I’m doing my best to return your love through great movies.

“The Roundup” will premiere on Saturday 26th November, 10pm on tvN Movies (Astro CH395 (HD) & Astro GO | unifi tv CH211 (HD) & unifi playTV).


Hype’s Now Playing: David Gravell — The Last Of Us

Formally known as Captivating Sounds, Armada Captivating has started the week by releasing their first ever music video! David Gravell, who was recently in Sarawak for Mysterious World released his “The Last Of Us” video on September 15th (Monday). Gravell’s “The Last Of Us” makes for the first release on the new label and in celebration of that, they’ve dropped the corresponding music video.

In the video, fans are given a brief preview of a day-in-the-life of Gravell. From the airport and ground transports, to the peak of the performance, Armada Captivating shows everyone just exactly what they strive to be: reimagined and reinvigorated trance, or in their words, Trance 3.0.

Check out the video for “The Last Of Us” here.

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Motorcyclist Dies In Tragic Accident After Hitting A Cat On The Road

A motorcyclist died after hitting a cat on the road in an accident that happened earlier this morning (Friday, 28th August).

The tragic incident took place in front of the Baling District Office in Kedah. It was reported that the rider lost control before crashing into a vase placed at the side of the road.

As a result, the motorcyclist suffered injuries and passed away at the scene. Not only that, the accident unfortunately also took the life of the furry creature which was hit by the victim.

The photos uploaded by a Facebook page show the police and several onlookers gathering as the ambulance arrived at the scene. The victim’s dead body was covered with a piece of white cloth while the cat’s carcass was seen at the side of the road following the collision.

Many netizens took to the comments section to send their warm prayers and condolences to the deceased’s family members. Others also recounted their terrifying experience of being involved in a similar incident.

Source: Info Roadblock JPJ/Polis Facebook.


Fun Facts: Beware Of These Spine-Chilling Facts About #InsidiousChapter3

“If you call out to one of the dead, all of them can hear you.”

Jot that down in your notebook or simply remember it all the time because we are not responsible for whatever that comes at you in “Insidious: Chapter 3“.

The highly anticipated horror movie is the 3rd instalment of the famed “Insidious” franchise. The 1st “Insidious” film follows the story of a couple (played by Patrick Wilson and Rose Byrne) whose son inexplicably enters a comatose state and becomes a vessel for ghosts in an astral dimension who want to inhabit his body, in order to once again live.

The film received generally positive reviews, with many praising the filmmakers’ ability to build suspense. It became a surprise success for director James Wan (of “The Conjuring” and “Furious 7″ fame) as it grossed a total of $97,009,150 worldwide. It was later turned into a franchise when its sequel made double the box office of the 1st film.

Directed by Leigh Whannell, “Insidious: Chapter 3″ stars former Disney star Stefanie Scott as Quinn Brenner, a teenager who asks physic Elise Rainier (played by Lin Shaye) to help her connect with her dead mother. Elise refuses to help, but is later forced to use her abilities to contact the other side in hope to stop an evil entity from attacking Quinn.

Dermot Mulroney, who is best known for his role in 1986’s “Young Guns”, is starring in the film as Quinn’s father while both Angus Sampson and the director himself are reprising their roles as ghost hunters Tucker and Specs.

In conjunction with the upcoming release of “Insidious: Chapter 3”, here are some fun facts about the movie (P.S: This article contains potential spoilers, so read it at your own risk):

1. It is a prequel that centres on psychic Elise Rainier

“Insidious: Chapter 3″ is a prequel that takes place before the haunting of the Lambert family. It centres on Elise Rainier, a gifted psychic who travels into a realm called “The Further” for the first time to save a teenager’s life.

However, she is also battling demons of her own. The origin of the evil is expected to be told in the film as it will be revealing more mysteries behind the realm.

2. It is Leigh Whannell’s directorial debut

Whannell served as the screenwriter for the first 2 “Insidious” films and worked together with director James Wan for the 3rd film. However, Wan was unavailable to direct the 3rd film due to his scheduling conflict with “Furious 7“.

Thus, Wan only served as the producer of the film while Whannell took over his role as the director. “Insidious: Chapter 3” marks Whannell’s directorial debut and it’ll be interesting to see how the movie will fare under a new director.

3. Filmmakers were forced to pay Sharon Van Etten for illegally using her music

The 3rd trailer, which was released by Focus Features in March, opens with a short snippet of Sharon Van Etten’s “Afraid of Nothing”.

However, it was revealed that the filmmakers used the song without acquiring the rights to it. They were later forced to pay her after Van Etten was notified by a fan on Twitter.

4. This is Stefanie Scott’s first horror film.

Stefanie “Noelle” Scott is best known for her role as Lexi Reed on Disney Channel’s “A.N.T. Farm”. She served as second assistant director in the show’s 1st season. She also won a 2011 Young Artist Award for her role as Dane Tressler in 2010’s “Flipped”, a romantic comedy drama film directed by Rob Reiner.

In 2014, she began filming for 4 movies including “Jem and the Holograms“, “Life at These Speeds”, and “Caught”. All 4 films are scheduled for release in 2015, with “Insidious: Chapter 3” being her 1st horror film.

5. Producer Jason Blum was already working on the 3rd film while promoting the 2nd film

Before “Insidious: Chapter 2” was even released, producer Jason Blum said that they were already prepping the early stages for “Insidious: Chapter 3”. At that time, Focus Features was still promoting the 2nd film.

Shaye’s character died in the 1st film, but her spirit appeared in the 2nd film. When Leigh was asked wther he regretted killing her character, he said:

Yes and no. It was a great scene, and such a shock, that I’d hate to take that away. But it certainly was less fun to deal with the ghost version of you in the second film. We always do that, James (Wan) and I. Even with Saw, I remember somewhere around part three the producers, with dollar signs in their eyes, asking, “What if he didn’t have cancer? What if it was all just another trick?” We seem to have this habit of killing off characters that the audience loves. Maybe the next film I write I’ll just keep everyone alive. That’ll be the film that flops.

6. Stefanie Scott connected with people on the other side

Prior to filming her role in Leigh Whannell-directed horror prequel, Scott claimed that a psychic “connected her with people on the other side”. “(It) was so intense,” she told HitFix.

She then added, “Yeah, I think that’s the closest I’ve come to meeting a ghost.”

7. The red-faced demon will have a cameo appearance

The red demon that appeared in the 1st “Insidious” flick may appear briefly in “Insidious: Chapter 3”. However, it is unclear whether Elise’s backstory with the demon will be told in the movie.

In fact, some other supporting characters from the previous “Insidious” films will also make their cameo appearances in the film.

8. The 4th film may take place in between the 1st film and the 3rd film

Whannell confirmed to We Got This Covered’s Jami Philbrick that a 4th chapter in the high-grossing horror series is planned. According to Whannell, the 4th film may take place sometime after the chilling events of “Chapter 3”, but before Elise came into contact with the Lambert family in the 1st “Insidious” movie.

I don’t know. I haven’t really thought about it yet. But for the purposes of this interview, I’ll say that I’d like to explore the time between this film and the first film. That whole area there where Elise has rediscovered her gift, I think you could have a lot of adventures before she arrives. So I think there is a lot of room there. We’ve kind of established Lin (Shaye) in this particular film as kind of this superhero, so that would be kind of interesting to explore in the other films.

“Insidious: Chapter 3” is based on a script written by Whannell and producer James Wan. Jason Blum of Blumhouse is producing the film alongside returning producers Oren Pali and Wan. Brian Kavanaugh-Jones, Steven Schneider, Charles Layton, and Xavier Marchand serve as the film’s executive producers.

“Insidious: Chapter 3″ is scheduled to be released on 4th June 2015.

For more information, visit the movie’s official Facebook page.

(Sources: HitFix, Dread Central, We Got This Covered)

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People Are Selling Ed Sheeran Tickets With Fake Barcodes & Seat Numbers

Be careful concert-goers! There are apparently netizens selling fake tickets to Ed Sheeran’s upcoming Divide World Tour 2019 KL concert.

Concert promoter PR Worldwide claims that concert tickets have been resold at 3 times the original price via online reselling platforms such as Viagogo, Syubhub, Shopee, Carousell, Lazada, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mudah, 11Street and other non-authorised ticket sellers.

“People are taking advantage of these reselling platforms and we have found that more and more fake tickets are also being sold; tickets with fake barcodes and ones with seats that don’t even exist at the venue.”

“We would like to remind ticket buyers again that Ed and his team have a strict stance against anyone using unethical secondary ticketing sites. In order to put a stop to the secondary ticketing market, absurd prices and fan rip-offs, the tickets are sold personalised, which means that the name of the ticket purchaser is printed on the tickets.”

PR Worldwide also stated that tickets purchasers may be asked to provide a photo ID that matches the name on the ticket(s) to enter the concert venue. This measurement is meant to curb scalpers from reselling tickets and fans from being cheated.

The good news is, the singer’s concert tickets are still available. They can be purchase at www.prworldwidelive.com or www.myticket.asia. Don’t fall victim to those scammers guys.


Hype Streams: Amazing New Programs You Should Watch This November

November is finally here, which means there’s only two months left in the year 2022. But, don’t worry because there is still plenty to look forward to for the rest of the year! And that includes our list of amazing new series, movies, reality shows and documentaries to watch throughout these remaining four weeks!

This month’s new picks ranges from exhilarating action-packed movies, scandalous reality TV shows and the exciting new Marvel’s Christmas special! So, ready your streaming devices, because you are going to be on a long journey!

“Marvel Studios’ Special Presentation: The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special”

In the “The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special”, the Guardians are on a mission to make Christmas unforgettable for Quill. They head to Earth in search of the perfect present… something Quill would never expect! The Marvel Studios’ Special Presentation stars Chris Pratt, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, and Pom Klementieff, featuring Vin Diesel as Groot and Bradley Cooper as Rocket, Sean Gunn and The Old 97’s with Michael Rooker and Kevin Bacon.

A migrant steamship heads west to leave the old continent. The passengers, a mixed group of European origins, unite through their hopes and dreams for the new century and their future abroad. But their journey takes an unexpected turn when they discover another migrant ship adrift on open sea. What they will find on board, will turn their passage to the promised land into a horrifying nightmare.

The series is a sleuthing, supernaturally infused mystery charting Wednesday Addams’ years as a student at Nevermore Academy. Wednesday’s attempts to master her emerging psychic ability, thwart a monstrous killing spree that has terrorized the local town, and solve the supernatural mystery that embroiled her parents twenty-five years ago – all while navigating her new and very tangled relationships at Nevermore.

The series co-stars Hikari Mitsushima (Sawako Decides) as Yae Noguchi, and Takeru Satoh (Ruroni Kenshin films) as Harumichi Namiki, who play high school sweethearts that meet in the late 90s. Each pursues their dreams while trying to stay together, but fate has other things planned for them, and two decades later, Yae is a single mom to a teenage son, while Harumichi is engaged to marry someone else. However, they soon discover that their love story is not quite over yet.

“Echo 3” is based on the award-winning series “When Heroes Fly,” created by Omri Givon and inspired by the eponymous novel by Amir Gutfreund. Set in South America, the action-packed thriller follows Amber Chesborough, a brilliant young scientist who is the emotional heart of a small American family. When Amber goes missing along the Colombia-Venezuela border her brother, Bambi, and her husband, Prince – two men with deep military experience and complicated pasts – struggle to find her in a layered personal drama, set against the explosive backdrop of a secret war.

The popular Korean webtoon “Lookism” is now a Netflix animated series with the same name! A high school student awakes one morning to discover that he now has a handsome face and a perfect body. “Lookism” deals with the subtle lookism and materialism present in the lives of people living in modern society.

Sum is a developer for social connecting app “Somebody.” Even though she has difficulty communicating with other people, she is friends with Mok-Won and Ki-Eun. Her friend Ki-Eun works as a detective. A murder takes place and the app “Somebody” is involved in the murder case. Architectural designer Yoon-O appears in front of Sum and her friends. Yoon-O is an attractive man, but he seems to be hiding something. Meanwhile, Ki-Eun investigates the murder case with help of Mok-Won.

Yoon Hyun-Woo has worked for Soonyang Conglomerate for more than 10 years. His job mainly consists of taking care of the family that runs the company. His work is similar to that of a servant, but he is falsely accused of embezzlement by the conglomerate family. He is then killed by their youngest son Jin Do-Joon. The next moment, Yoon Hyun-Woo finds himself in the body of the family’s youngest son Jin Do-Joon. He decides to take revenge on the Soonyang Conglomerate family and also run the company.

Two years after Grace’s brutal murder which turned their lives upside down, the Stone family is in shambles as a devastated Ben continues to mourn his wife and search for his kidnapped daughter, Eden. Consumed by his grief, Ben has stepped down from his role as co-captain of the lifeboat, leaving Michaela to captain it alone, a near impossible feat with the passengers’ every move now being monitored by a government registry.

How far would you go to live better, for longer? Join Chris Hemsworth as he explores the different ways humans can live better for longer by taking on physical challenges such as diving in ice or climbing skyscrapers. Explore the boundaries of human potential!

As Queen Elizabeth II (Imelda Staunton) approaches the 40th anniversary of her accession, she reflects on a reign that has encompassed nine prime ministers, the advent of mass television and the twilight of the British Empire. Yet, new challenges are on the horizon. The collapse of the Soviet Union and the transfer of sovereignty in Hong Kong signals a seismic shift in the international order presenting both obstacles and opportunities. Meanwhile, trouble is brewing closer to home.

Timmy Yoon (Randall Park) Is an analog dreamer living in a 5G world. And after learning he is operating the last Blockbuster Video in America, Timmy and his staff employees including his long-time crush, Eliza (Melissa Fumero) fight to stay relevant. The only way to succeed is to remind their community that they provide something big corporations can’t: human connection.

An epic period fantasy series with a modern sensibility set in an enchanted land of breathtaking beauty. The story began with an aspiring magician from a Nelwyn village and an infant girl destined to unite the realms, who together helped destroy an evil queen and banish the forces of darkness. Now, in a magical world where brownies, sorcerers, trolls, and other mystical creatures flourish, the adventure continues, as an unlikely group of heroes set off on a dangerous quest to places far beyond their home, where they must face their inner demons and come together to save their world.

A new season is coming ahead at Las Encinas with so many businesses to attend. After Phillipe’s fateful New Year’s party and Guzman’s runaway, the secret about Armando’s death could destroy the love story between Samuel and Ari. Meanwhile, Rebeka is going through a process of self-discovery, while Omar is recovering from his separation from Ander; in addition, the appearance of Adam Nourou will complicate his relationship with Samuel.

“Welcome to Chippendales” is an upcoming American drama streaming television miniseries inspired by the book “Deadly Dance: The Chippendales Murders” by K. Scot Macdonald and Patrick MontesDeOca. Kumail Nanjiani plays founder Somen ‘Steve’ Banerjee, the Indian-American entrepreneur who started Chippendales and hired a hit-man to murder his business partner Nick De Noia who started taking credit for the club.

In 1862, 13 years after the Great Famine, an English Nightingale Nurse, Lib Wright (Florence Pugh), is called to the Irish Midlands by a devout community to conduct a 15-day examination over one of their own. Anna O’Donnell (Kíla Lord Cassidy) is an 11-year-old girl who claims not to have eaten for four months, surviving miraculously on ‘manna from heaven’. As Anna’s health rapidly deteriorates, Lib is determined to unearth the truth, challenging the faith of a community that would prefer to stay believing.

Join colorful friends Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po on wonder-filled adventures as they learn and grow in this 21st century refresh of the beloved preschool series, now narrated by Emmy-nominee Tituss Burgess. Each episode includes new, original ‘Tummy Tales’ songs that will have the entire family dancing along!

Fresh off the triumph of solving her first case, Enola Holmes (Millie Bobby Brown) follows in the footsteps of her famous brother, Sherlock (Henry Cavill), and opens her own agency – only to find that life as a female detective-for-hire isn’t as easy as it seems. Resigned to accepting the cold realities of adulthood, she is about to close shop when a penniless matchstick girl offers Enola her first official job: to find her missing sister.

This isn’t your great great great great great great grandparents’ Christmas Carol (give or take). Spirited is an upcoming American Christmas-themed musical comedy film directed by Sean Anders and written by Anders and John Morris. Starring Will Ferrell, Ryan Reynolds, and Octavia Spencer, the film is a modern retelling of Charles Dickens’ musical version a miserly misanthrope who’s taken on a magical journey: A Christmas Carol.

“The Lost Lotteries” is a movie that revolves around a heist carried out by six individuals with no prior heist experience. To win their lottery tickets back, they must put themselves on a pedal and fight the mafia who stole them. Each has individual knacks that contribute to the heist. However, the chances of them becoming successful are pretty low.

“Disenchanted” features the much-anticipated return of Giselle, the princess from the fairy tale world of Andalasia banished to Manhattan who found her real Princess Charming in divorce lawyer Robert Philip. 15 years later, Giselle moves to the suburb of Monroeville with Robert and their teenage daughter Morgan, where she must juggle the challenges that come with a new home and discover what happily ever after truly means to her and her new family.

“Slumberland” takes audiences to a magical new place, a dreamworld where precocious Nemo (Marlow Barkley) and her eccentric companion Flip (Jason Momoa) embark on the adventure of a lifetime. After her father Peter (Kyle Chandler) is unexpectedly lost at sea, young Nemo’s idyllic Pacific Northwest existence is completely upended when she is sent to live in the city with her well-meaning but deeply awkward uncle Phillip (Chris O’Dowd).

Lynsey, a United States soldier, experiences a traumatic brain injury during her tour in Afghanistan which forces her to return home. She struggles to return to her daily life with her mother as she waits for her eventual redeployment.

A newly engaged, spoiled hotel heiress (Lindsay Lohan) gets into a skiing accident, suffers from total amnesia and finds herself in the care of a handsome, blue-collar lodge owner (Chord Overstreet) and his precocious daughter in the days leading up to Christmas.

“Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium”

Nearly 50 years after Elton John’s legendary last performance at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, the exclusive live music event special is finally here. The final American stop of his ‘Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour’.

The year was 1996, and the cola wars were raging. Despite Pepsi’s celeb-soaked advertisements, Coke still held the bigger market share, so the second-place brand decided to roll out their biggest campaign ever: Called “Pepsi Stuff,” it featured a soon-to-be infamous commercial implying that if you just bought enough of their products, you could use “Pepsi Points” to purchase sunglasses, leather jackets and maybe a Harrier jet?

David Beckham is coming home. A career that has taken him to the summit of world football, is now heading back to its source: East London. This is where David’s footballing journey began – in the Echo Premier League. In “Save Our Squad”, David Beckham is joining up with Westward Boys, an under 14’s grassroots side from East London who are in desperate need of help.

After years in the limelight, Selena Gomez achieves unimaginable stardom. But just as she reaches a new peak, an unexpected turn pulls her into darkness. An intimate study which spans her six-year journey into a new light.

Puteri Teja contributed to this article.

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The Monica Geller & Chandler Bing Reunion

One of our favourite albeit slightly neurotic onscreen couples in the history of television. Other than the fact that we sometimes secretly watch re-runs of the popular Emmy-winning NBC series, “Friends”, we haven’t seen the duo share the same “space” since the show ended in 2004.

But all is well! We hear that Monica and Chandler Courteney Cox and Matthew Perry are all set to reunite on television! Previously, Matthew Perry had already hinted at the possibility of reuniting with some of his “Friends” co-stars on “Go On” so who better to kick off a series of reunions with than Courteney Cox herself? Right?

The 48-year-old actress will play a potential love interest for Matthew Perry when their characters are set up on a date on an upcoming episode of his NBC comedy, “Go On”. This would mark the formerly married “Friends” couple’s first reunion. It is also Courteney Cox’s reunion with former “Friends” executive producer, Scott Silveri, with whom she worked on “Friends” from 1996 through its final season.

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#EmpireShoppingGallery: Glass Ceiling Collapses At Shopping Mall

At about 4pm today (Tuesday, 12th January), a glass ceiling at Empire Shopping Gallery collapsed. The mall, located in the city centre of Subang Jaya near Subang Parade, is 5 storeys high and a pretty popular spot as it houses about 180 stores.

The Star Online contacted a spokesperson from the shopping mall’s management team who confirmed that no one was injured in the incident and that their operations team were already on the site of the collapsed ceiling.

The Malaysian daily also quoted an eyewitness who said that he was sitting at the first floor of the mall when he heard a loud bang. The eyewitness added that it was raining at the time of the incident.

A member of our team was there at about 8pm and it looked like business as usual so there’s no cause for concern.

In September 2011, about a year after Empire Shopping Gallery’s grand opening, an explosion due to gas leakage occurred at the mall. It was closed for 2 months for repair works and reinforcement of safety measures before it reopened for business in November 2011.

Source: The Star Online / Featured image from kuala-lumpur.ws.


#BrianMcKnight: American R&B Crooner Returns To Malaysia This April!

Who’s up for a romantic evening with Brian McKnight?

The Grammy-nominated R&B singer-songwriter will be holding a solo show at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel on 9th April (Sunday).

Brian McKnight released his self-titled debut album under Mercury Records in 1992 and it peaked at #58 in the Billboard 200 chart. His final album, titled “Anytime”, with Mercury sold over 2 million copies. Known for his strong falsetto and belting range, the 47-year-old singer has dropped many classic hits, including “Back At One”, “Still”, and “One Last Cry”.

Although he has 16 Grammy Awards nominations under his belt, he has never won one. McKnight is 3rd only to Morten Lindberg and Snoop Dogg for the record of most Grammy nominations without a win. Besides that, he is a multi-instrumentalist who plays 8 instruments: piano, guitar, bass guitar, percussion, trombone, tuba, flugelhorn and trumpet.

Presented by LADS Entertainment and LADS International Inc, the opening act will be performed by Malaysian singer Elvira Arul, who has worked with local and international artistes like Sheila Majid and Kenny B.

Note: Tickets can be purchased via www.ticketpro.com.my

For more information, hit up Brian McKnight’s Facebook page.

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(UPDATE) f(x): Sulli Rumoured To Leave Girl Group To Focus On Acting Career

f(x) Sulli is currently on a temporary hiatus from the girl group’s activities, but several Korean news portal reported that the singer/actress has halted all f(x) activities as she is in the process of leaving the group. The news was first reported by Korean news site Herald Review Star.

The idol reportedly left f(x) to concentrate on her acting career. However, Sulli will still remain as an artiste for SM Entertainment as her contract has yet to expire. It is unsure what her next step will be once her contract ends. SM Entertainment has yet to release an official statement regarding the debacle.

It was also reported that f(x) will be making a comeback as a 4-member group with only Krystal, Luna, Victoria, and Amber on board this September. This isn’t the first time that Sulli has been excluded from f(x)’s plans, as she was notably absent from the group when they were shooting for their Baskin Robbins advertisement.

f(x) has been on hiatus since August 2014, after promotions for their 3rd full studio album titled “Red Light” ended. Their promotions were cut short as it was marred by news of Sulli’s alleged relationship with Choiza. The agencies for both sides admitted that they are indeed in a relationship, however, Sulli was soon surrounded by pregnancy rumours. This was proven to be fake but the damage was already done as Sulli was forced to go on temporary hiatus from f(x)’s activities since then.

After the fiasco, the remaining f(x) members focused on their solo careers, most notably Amber, who released a solo album titled “Shake That Brass“. Victoria and Krystal concentrated on their acting career while Luna has since improved on her singing and released an OST single.

What do you think about the issue? Would you prefer f(x) with or without Sulli? Leave your thoughts in the comments box below!

SM Entertainment has released an official statement regarding the situation. However, the information is vague as they did not ascertain whether or not Sulli is leaving the group.

We read the articles regarding Sulli leaving the group. We are currently trying to check the situation. We are seeing whether there is any truth to this internally within the company. So once everything is organized, we will send out our statement.


#IMSAsiaPacific: Excitement Brews As IMS Asia-Pacific Unveils First Line-Up Of Speakers

As you may have already heard, the second International Music Summit (IMS) Asia-Pacific will be returning to Singapore in a couple of weeks following the huge success of its first installment last year.

It’s the premier platform of thought leadership in electronic music, fronted by music icon and industry leader Pete Tong. After hosting international and local leaders in discussion last year, IMS Asia-Pacific is setting the stage for an even further expansion, as well as a deeper connection to unearthing the unique and valuable aspects of this region.

Last year’s edition saw an entourage of some of the world’s most influential people in the music business and esteemed dance music talents such as Steve Angello, Pete Tong, NERVO, Paul Oakenfold, Richie Hawtin, and more.

So the golden question is, who will be helming some of the panels during this year’s IMS Asia-Pacific?

Of course, we all know who Kaskade is for the American DJ/producer extraordinaire really needs no introduction.

IMS Asia-Pacific will also see Sharam (one half of the Grammy award-winning duo Deep Dish), as well as fellow Malaysians Rahul Kukreja (co-founder of Livescape Group) and DJ Blink come together in distinct panels to spark thoughtful conversations, and tackle vital and current topics that impact the region. Details of the topics will be announced soon.

With some 30 artistes and industry players expected at IMS AP 2015, the event serves as a perfect opportunity to unite the industry, as well as to educate the wider world about the opportunities, challenges and current successes of the region.

This is only the first wave and already, it’s getting interesting :)

Purchase your IMS Asia-Pacific badge(s) here! Badges include access to all panels, a buffet lunch and the cocktail party. Early bird badges are sold out but regular badges will be available for 130€ until 20th November. Late badges will be available for 160€.

After IMS, celebrate and welcome the weekend with ZoukOut 2015, featuring artistes like Tiësto, Axwell Ingrosso, Nervo, Jamie Jones, Dixon, Deep Dish, Paul Oakenfold and many more. For delegates only, the festival is offering 20% off ZoukOut tickets, maximum one ticket per delegate, all purchases will be checked against your name.

We’ll leave you now with the official IMS Asia-Pacific 2014 recap video. Enjoy:

IMS Asia-Pacific is slated to happen in Singapore on 11th December. More information on this year’s speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.

For more information on IMS Asia-Pacific, visit its official website.

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#Malaysia: Concorde Hotel KL To Be Demolished To Make Way For New Project

In recent years, several landmarks along Jalan Sultan Ismail have been demolished to make way for new and taller structures including Hotel Equatorial and Crowne Plaza Mutiara Kuala Lumpur.

Hotel Equatorial, which ceased operations on 1st April 2012, will be rebuilt to include a 53-storey mixed commercial development in its place while guests checked out of Crowne Plaza Mutiara Kuala Lumpur for the last time on 2nd January 2013.

Crowne Plaza Mutiara Kuala Lumpur will be replaced by Tradewinds Square, a RM6 billion mega mixed development project consisting of Grade A+ offices, retail offices and serviced apartments within 4 towers, and a retail podium.

At the time of redevelopment, Hotel Equatorial was 39 years old while Crowne Plaza Mutiara Kuala Lumpur was 40 odd years old.

Now, word has it that the next hotel that has been marked to go is 57-year-old Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur. This would make it the 3rd hotel within a 500m stretch along Jalan Sultan Ismail to be demolished in recent years to realise the potential of its parcel of land.

According to The Edge Property, the 4-star Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur, which is also home to Malaysia’s first Hard Rock Cafe, may be torn down to make way for a multibillion-ringgit integrated project. However, no details regarding the project was revealed.

The Edge Property cited associate director of Savills Malaysia (a global real estate services provider) Nabeel Hussain as saying that the move to do so is understandable as the rule of thumb is that once the value of a building (in terms of built-up area) is less than the value of the land that it sits on, it’s time to redevelop.

“Assuming each of the 581 rooms in the 4-star hotel is valued at an average RM700,000 … that would suggest a total value of RM406 million, whereas the underlying land (at a reasonable assumed selling price of RM2,700 psf in Jalan Sultan Ismail) will be in excess of RM493 million. Add the fact that the property is nearly 60 years old and requiring refurbishment, the decision to redevelop can be understood,” Nabeel explained.

Previously known as The Merlin Kuala Lumpur from 1957 until 1990, Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur, an icon in the Golden Triangle, has seen several change of hands and renovations.

As at time of writing, the status of Hard Rock Cafe in the redevelopment is unknown.


Sundance Channel & Astro Launches First Ever Short Film Competition!

Think you’ve got the talent and the skills to become a prestigious director? Perhaps this is your chance to show off your talent!

In partnership with Astro, Sundance Channel will launch a first-ever competition of its kind that gives a chance to aspiring Malaysian filmmakers to submit their original short films to be showcased on the network.

Interested participants will be able to submit their short films at the official website for Astro’s Sundance Channel, starting from October 1, 2014 until November 23, 2014. But! The competition requires the participants to provide their proof of residency in Malaysia and ensure the film is no longer than 12 minutes.

On top of that, the submissions must meet Sundance Channel’s and Astro’s technical requirements and it must have never been shown on Malaysian TV previously. The requirements are available on the website together with an explanatory video detailing everything including tips. Additional information will be tweeted with the hashtag #SCShorts.

The films submitted by the top 3 finalists will premiere on Sundance Channel HD (CH438) in 2015 and will be screened at an exclusive event in Kuala Lumpur in December. The Grand Prize winner will also receive a trip to the prestigious 2015 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah with exclusive access to screenings, panels, events and the awards ceremony. The trip will include airfare and hotel accommodation for 2 people for 3 nights. The two runners up will receive professional digital cameras.

Entries will be handpicked by the judges based on several criteria, including creativity, entertainment value, original storytelling and production value. The jury members will include representatives from Sundance Channel, Astro and the filmmaking community. Finalists will be announced on 7th December.

For more information, visit Sundance Channel’s official website.

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Listen, There’s An Online Storm, Listen!

Step aside, “Gangnam Style”. Us Malaysians have got our very own viral video now. Sharifah Zohra Jabeen Syed Shah Miskin, president of Suara Wanita 1 Malaysia (SW1M) has singlehandedly spawned several video spoofs of herself berating a law student.

The original video posted last week featured Sharifah Zohra hosting a “Are undergraduates and politics aligned?” university forum where law student, Bawani, stood up to voice her views on the Bersih electoral rally and free education. Clearly displeased with the vocal and critical Bawani, Sharifah Zohra told the student to “Listen!”.

Once, twice, thrice, and then about 11 times in total before taking the microphone away from Bawani to stop her from speaking further. Sharifah Zohra then responded, “Number one, when this is our programme, we allow you to speak. Number two, when I speak, you listen.”

But it all went downhill from there when she went on to say, “If you equate Malaysia to other countries, what are you doing in Malaysia? Go to Cuba, go to Argentina, go to Libya, go everywhere. Because you know what? All the students in this hall are happy with whatever the government does for them!”

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Controversial artiste Namewee was the first to pick up on the now viral video, which was blasted across various social media platforms including YouTube and Facebook. And we all know how fast that spreads. It inspired 29-year-old Namewee to pen a song of his own, inspired by and especially dedicated to Sharifah Zohra.

His video, simply titled, “Listen”, contains lyrics that go like this:

Don’t compare our country with other countries.

If you want to compare, what are you doing in Malaysia?

We should compare to the “kucing” (cats) in Cuba,

Because the animal are happy with the government.

As of today, Namewee’s three-minute clip has generated over 635,000 views and 9,819 likes.  Haven’t seen it? Here you go:

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Since then, Sharifah Zohra has gone into hiding (as confirm by SW1M). When contacted by The Malaysian Insider, it was revealed that then people of SW1M (particularly a SW1M supreme council member and advisor) said that Sharifah Zohra was blackmailed and that it’s best for her to keep quiet because the issue has become quite serious. Sharifah Zohra has also been told to go to somewhere safe because she has children.

Meanwhile, SW1M isn’t the only party that has a Facebook page. The student in which Sharifah Zohra castigated, Bawani, also has one. And it appears that she has been rallying support via her page.


Prolific Designer Oscar de la Renta Dies At 82

Oscar de la Renta, the prolific American designer, has died, ABC News and Univision have confirmed. He was 82-years-old.

He was best known to have dressed celebrities ranging from Jackie Kennedy to Jennifer Garner over the years, and whose brand became synonymous with timeless yet fierce elegance. De la Renta had appointed Peter Copping as Creative Director of his eponymous brand just last week.

The designer had been battling cancer since 2006, although his cause of death is not immediately known.

In a career that spanned some 50-plus years, de la Renta’s designs were seen on everyone from first ladies to virtually every celebrity. Human rights lawyer and activist Amal Alamuddin donned a truly spectacular de la Renta gown when she married actor George Clooney last month.

Graced with an indefatigable charm, the designer was known for his feminine, romantic frocks. His confections were a throwback to a different, more glamorous era — much like the designer himself. And thus, he will be sorely missed by those in high fashion, as well as those who were just adoring spectators of his work.

We’ll leave you now with a quote from Oscar himself:

The only realities in life are that you are born, and that you die. We always think we are going to live forever. The dying aspect we will never accept. The one thing about having this kind of warning is how you appreciate every single day of life.

People ask me, “At your age, when are you going to retire?”

I think every single day there is a learning process. For a long time…I wondered what would happen to the brand when I am no longer here. But I will be here for a very, very long time.

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Personal Info Of 11 Mil Malaysian Facebook Users Leaked Online

In this day and age where almost every person has a Facebook account, it’s important to stay cautious. Just yesterday (Sunday, 4th April), it was reported that there’s been a leaked database of 533 million Facebook users from over 100 countries around the world.

From that number, more than 11 million (exactly 11,675,894 Malaysians) have been affected. The data leaked not only includes the users’ Facebook ID, but also names, mobile numbers, emails, gender, occupation, city, country, marital status, and others.

This issue was first brought up by Alon Gal. For those who don’t know, he’s the co-Founder and CTO of Israelian cybersecurity company, Hudson Rock. “This means that if you have a Facebook account, it is extremely likely the phone number used for the account was leaked,” Gal tweeted. After all, our Facebook accounts are often linked to other apps and features.

Business Insider has also verified several records with the following:

The fact that this isn’t the first time is very concerning. Previously on 14th January this year, Gal highlighted that a Telegram bot was leaking personal information from the Facebook database and the information could be bought for a fee.

Director of Strategic Response Communications for Facebook Liz Bourgeois took to Twitter to respond, saying that it was “old data that was previously reported on in 2019”, adding that the security issue had already been fixed in August 2019. It’s funny that Bourgeois would refer to it as “old data” since the information can still be exploited by scammers as well as hackers.

Taking that into consideration, it’s probably best to review your own sensitive data on Facebook. Avoid clicking on questionable links that you aren’t sure of.