Film Works

Film Screening Invitation: ‘Technophilia’ Screens in Las Vegas on Aug. 25, 2011

The Philippine-Korean-Iraqi 16mm short film “Technophilia” will have a screening at “RAW: Las Vegas Presents Fusion” on Aug. 25, 2011 (Thursday) at Tommy Rocker’s in Las Vegas. If you’re in the Vegas area on the said date, you’re invited to come to the event and support local artists. You can buy tickets through this link. Buying ahead of time will only cost $10 for a night of film, music performances, photography, mixed media, and performance art exhibitions, and fashion show.

“Technophilia” will start the showcase at 8:30 p.m. For more information about the film, you can check out the: trailer, film stills, behind-the-scene photos, and film blog. This film is produced by Colorwheel Media Studios through the help of the Korean Film Council, Korean Academy of Film Arts, and Korea University.

Synopsis

Inside a hangout place, the game addict boyfriend gets boxed up by his techie lifestyle, which further alters his relationship with his already fed-up girlfriend. Things become more and more mechanical as they move on.

More About RAW Artists Events

You can also check out the video of last month’s “RAW: Las Vegas Presents Illuminare” for an idea of what’s to come for the next showcase. You can also view videos of other RAW Artists events: “RAW: Los Angeles Presents Incite” and “RAW: New York Presents Artcade.”

What is RAW?

RAW: natural born artists is an independent arts organization, for artists, by artists.

Our mission is to provide independent artists of all creative genres with the tools, resources, and exposure needed to inspire and cultivate creativity. RAW educates emerging artists through seminars, workshops, and insights to further knowledge of their industries.

RAW connects them with one another so that they may grow together, while also providing them with opportunities to give back to their own local youth communities through the arts.

We encourage the creative success of the many visionaries and storytellers of our generation.

Grassroots Showcase Events

RAW handpicks and spotlights local artistic talents in film, fashion, music, visual art, hair and makeup artistry, and performance art. With artists from all genres in each showcase, RAW events come together to form an amazing circus of creativity.

What Can You Expect when Attending the RAW Showcase?

We screen an independent film (usually a short, webisode, or music video), a fashion show from an up-and-coming local designer, a musical performance, an art gallery featuring several independent visual artists, and performance art (comedy/dance/fire dancers, you name it…). You’ll get a little taste of everything. Combine all this creativity with drinks, fun, and good company! To partake in the experience, RSVP ($10/ticket) in the “Showcases” section of the event.

It’s a No Shoe Day at Rockwell

Check out the “It’s a No Shoe Day” event at the Rockwell Center!!!

Info:

In our own group of friends, we are all for one and one for all, but TOMS Shoes are simply One for One.

TOMS Shoes was founded on a simple premise: With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. In this way, the purchasing power of individuals will benefit the greater good. One for one.

It all started in 2006 with an American traveler, Blake Mycoskie. He befriended children in Argentina and found they had no shoes to protect their feet. Wanting to help, he created TOMS Shoes. Blake returned to Argentina with a group of family, friends and staff later that year with 10,000 pairs of shoes made possible by caring TOMS customers.

Now TOMS shoes are available in the Philippines in Nothing But Water and Swim stores, Filipinos can start buying their own pair of TOMS Shoes to help more children.

Everyone is invited to support the One Day Without Shoes movement by walking barefoot on April 9, 2010 in the South Court of Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center starting 10 am.

During the event, people will be asked to go the day, part of the day or even just a few minutes, barefoot, to experience a life without shoes first-hand, and to help spread awareness of the impact that a simple pair of shoes can bring to a child’s life

To register, drop by any Nothing But H20 and SWIM store, or email tomsshoesphilippines@gmail.com and  visit www.facebook.com/ilovetomsphilippines for more details. Participants will have a 5% discount and a raffle coupon for a chance to win a free pair of TOMS.

Many children in our country still grow up barefoot. Whether at play, doing chores or going to school, these children are at risk. A leading cause of disease in developing countries like ours is soil-transmitted diseases, which can penetrate the skin through bare feet. Wearing shoes can help prevent these diseases, and the long-term physical and cognitive harm they cause.

Wearing shoes prevents feet from getting cuts and sores. Not only are these injuries painful, they also are dangerous when wounds become infected.

Many times children can’t attend school barefoot because shoes are a required part of their uniform. If they don’t have shoes, they don’t go to school. If they don’t receive an education, they don’t have the opportunity to realize their potential.

Since their beginning in May 2006, TOMS has given over 400,000* pairs of shoes to children in need, through the purchases of caring customers.

After four years in business, “One for One” model is more than just a novelty project. TOMS has expanded its line, won the 2007 People’s Design Award at Cooper-Hewitt’s National Design Awards, became a member of the Clinton Global Initiative, and landed shelf space in Whole Foods.

To learn more about the TOMS Shoes visit www.toms.com and www.facebook.com/ilovetomsphilippines.

Technophilia Screens at the 11th Cinemanila International Film Festival

Technophilia is screening at the Cinemanila Young Cinema Shorts Program this October 2009! =D

Congratulations to all the filmmakers and their films! See you at the Bonifacio Global City this October!

CINEMANILA FINALISTS
September 23, 2009
Cinemanila Finalists Announced: Digital Lokal, Young Cinema, SEA Shorts

The 11th Cinemanila International Film Festival released today its finalists for the Digital Lokal Section (Philippine digital films) Young Cinema Section (Shorts in Competition and Exhibition), and SEA Shorts (Southeast Asian shorts in Competition and Exhibition). They are as follows:

The finalists for this year’s Digital Lokal are:

Christopher Gozum “Anacbanua”
Armando “Bing” Lao “Biyaheng Lupa”
Jon Red “Beerhouse”
Lito Casaje “Dolores”
Ted Manotoc “69 1/2”
Bona Fajardo “Iliw”

For Young Cinema Competition the finalists are:

Janus Victoria “Dalaw”
Mikhail Red “Harang”
Antoinette Jadaone “Ito ang Gabing Babalikan Kita Pagkatapos ng Tatatlong Taon nang Hindi Maiiyak at Masasaktan”
Ice Idanan “Limang Libo”
Ramon del Prado “Save Me!!!”
Emmanuel Quindo Palo “Stations”
Remton Siega Zuasola “To Siomai Love”

For Young Cinema Exhibition are:

Marcus Adoro “The Artist Is In”
Ryan Nikolai Dino “Ang Ibig Sabihin ng ‘OK Lang’”
Leo Valencia “Gemini”
Glenn Ituriaga “Gusto Kong Lumipad”
Paolo Herras “Irene F**king Jordan”
Michael Angelo Dagñalan “Karoler”
Rianne Hill Soriano “Technophilia”
Ely Buendia “Waiting Shed”

For the SEA Shorts Competition the finalists are:

“Uwan Init Pista sa Langit” (Philippines) by Remton Siega Zuasola and Keith Deligero
“Focal Point” (Malaysia) by Alizera Khatami & Ali Seifourri
“Rat” (Malaysia/Taiwan) by Lau Kek Huat
“Outing” (Singapore) Jow Zhi Wei
“Sea Horse” (Indonesia) by Shalahuddin Siregar

For the Sea Shorts in Exhibition are:

“Lakad ni Sammy” (Philippines) by Joel P. Ruiz
“Love Suicides” (Malaysia) by Edmund Yeo
“It’s Not Raining Outside” by Yosep Anggi Noen

###

The 11th Cinemanila International Film Festival will be held from October 15 to 25, 2009 in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. Around 100 international and local films will be screened in a span of 10 days – from the current toasts of the local indie scene to the award-winners and favorites at prestigious festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, Rotterdam, Sundance, and Pusan. The festival will also feature workshops, seminars and master classes. For more info, or jpegs for a release, please contact cinemanila.press@gmail.com and cinemanila@gmail.com or go to www.cinemanila.org.ph.

The 2009 Cinemanila is presented by the City of Taguig and the Cinemanila International Film Festival Foundation, together with Market!Market! Cinemas and Ayala Malls, in cooperation with Cinema One, Business World, Manila Bulletin, Click the City, Philippine Star, Pep.ph, Spot.ph, Fully Booked, Web Philippines, TBWA\Mangada\Santiago\Puno, Outpost Visual Frontier, Solid Video Corporation and the World Cinema Fund.

From: http://cinemanila.org/?p=725

PR: The Camera to Film Test

The Camera to Film Test
Different Shooting Formats printed on 35mm Film

Host: Optima Digital
Date: Thursday, June 25, 2009
Time: 4:30pm – 7:30pm
Location: Premier Theatre, Shangri-la Edsa Plaza
Email: sales@optimadigital.com

We’ve always wondered and talked about how the visual quality of different camera sources would look when projected in cinema via 35mm projection. Now, it’s time to see it with your own eyes.

For the first time in Philippine Cinema- 35mm prints from different camera sources will be together in one screening!

See and compare the cinematic quality of footages shot from locally available high-end cameras like RED One Camera, Arri-D21, Panasonic Varicam, Sony F950, Panasonic HVX 200 (P2) and 35mm film, all printed on 35mm film for cinema projection.

Also included are stunning footage from the industry’s best broadcast quality, ultra-high speed camera- The Phantom!

Come join us for this special screening and meet the people that operate these cameras and their post-production workflows. Also present are experts from Opticolors Film Lab, Unitel Productions, Unico Entertainment and CMB to provide you with in-depth consultations for your next movie production. Screenings are every 30 minutes, so drop by anytime!

Filipino and Korean Shorts Premiere at Gateway Digital Cinema This June

Filipino and Korean Shorts Premiere at Gateway Digital Cinema This June

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Gateway Cineplex 10, and Colorwheel Media Studios present “Indie HD: Premiere of the Filipino and Korean Independent Short Films ‘Pera-perahang Lata’ and ‘Technophilia’ in HD format and a Discussion On Digital Technology in Indie Films Today.” Directed by Rianne Hill Soriano, the two films will be projected in HD format at the Cinema 1 of Gateway Cineplex 10 (Dolby Super Digital Cinema) on June 3, 2009, 6:30 p. m.

Von Arroyo makes his film debut in “Pera-perahang Lata,” a film exploring the many facets of a struggling life in a world that is full of unpredictable moments – where things are beyond one’s control. The cast also includes Arnold Reyes, Gio Respall, Paul Sy, Judith Soriao, Dante Balois, Jocel Vergel de Dios, Loida Petalo, Henrex Aldueso, Rey Solo, Dido dela Paz, Marnie Lapus, Ces Aldaba, Karl Moro, Rommel Buenaventura, Ellen Estrada, and other talented character actors and actresses in film, TV, and theater.

The film is produced through a grant from the NCCA and is also blessed by the generosity of Unitel Productions, FILMEX, Engine Room, Optima, Hit Productions, Outpost Digital Frontier, city government of Marikina, Marikina Riverbanks, St. Francis Xavier Parish Church, Streetpark Productions, and Brass Knuckles.

The Korean film “Technophilia,” a Korean-Filipino-Iraqi film production, shows how technology can shape people’s lifestyles, affect their relationships, and make their interactions as mechanistic as their gadgets. It stars fresh Korean, Japanese, American, and Filipino talents and is made possible through the filmmaker’s participation to the Asian Filmmakers Training Program in Seoul, Korea last year. The film is supported by the Korean Film Council, the prime mover in Korean cinema, Korean Academy of Film Arts, the country’s elite film school, and Korea University, where the filmmaker got an honorary alumna status during her six-month stay in Seoul last year.

Through the help of the Araneta Group, the films are privileged to be shown in HD format, not via a low resolution DVD projection. Within the premiere of the said films will be a full program incorporating a brief discussion on how independent filmmakers can maximize the filmmaking process. Gateway will provide information on how the digital cinema is starting to shape the future of film theaters. Christie will give basic details about the HD projection on digital cinemas. Optima Digital will discuss the feature film workflows available for filmmakers, and the NCCA will impart information about their grant system for independent filmmakers. The Minister and Consul General of the Korean Embassy will be a guest of honor during the event. A Q&A will follow after the screenings.

The event ‘Indie HD’ is also made possible by the Gateway Cineplex 10, NCCA, Colorwheel Media Studios, Innovasia, Korean Embassy, Marikina Cultural Affairs Office, Mamma Mia, Jingleman, NU 107, and the official music channel MTV Philippines. The premiere is open to the public. Email nordic.gift@gmail.com to reserve free tickets. First come, first served. You may visit www.peraperahanglata.blogspot.com, www.technophiliafilm.blogspot.com, and www.riannehillsoriano.com/blog for more information about the films.

Film Article: Phil Digi Awards

1st Phil Digi Awards Wraps Up at the World Trade Center
By: Rianne Hill Soriano | YEHEY! Contributors
17 March 2009 | 11:18 AM

The 1st Philippine Digital Music and Short Film Festival and Awards (Phil Digi Awards) wrapped up with a two-day music and film congress and red carpet night last Mar. 11 and 12, 2009 at the World Trade Center.

This joint project by Isys Business Solution and Thumbsinteractiv, in cooperation with Blue Fish Asia, aimed to discover fresh Filipino talents in the field of music and filmmaking through online film and music competitions – bringing the independent film industry to the open and market its potentials. Receiving a whopping number of entries from students, amateurs, and professional music artists and filmmakers, it boasted of over 300 music entries and 40 short film entries from rising Filipino artists.

The two-day event was a great night for Filipino film and music performances courtesy of professionals, students, and newcomers in the industry – showcasing and celebrating both professional and amateur talents. The congress featured seminars and workshops on film, animation, music, the protection of Filipino art works, and the business opportunities in the creative industry. Key topics included: artist development and management, copyrights, publishing rights, anti-piracy, finding grants, filmmaking, music recording, animation trends, film classification, original content production, among others. There were also features on independent and commercial film directors and musicians.

The winners for this year’s festival:

Music Categories

ACCESS 2 LOVE
Best Digital Album

KAMANDAG THEME by First Circle
Best Jingle Entry

2 DAYS AGO
Promising New Artist

NJEL DE MESA
Promising Male Artist

DEBBIE NICODEMUS
Promising Female Aritst

BRENAN ESPARTINEZ
Best Male Artist

YENG CONSTANTINO
Best Female Artist

ARNE MARTELINO
Best Composer

ISA’T KALAHATING ARAW by Sensitivo
Best Indie Music

SENSITIVO
Best Independent Group

CALL TO LIFE by Salamankero
Best Music Video

FREQUENCY by Emorej
Best House/Electronica Music

ANG TANGING PATNUBAY by John Paul Dabon
Best Composition

ALAY SA IYO by Era Ann Oblefias
Best Gospel/Praise Music

SAGIP SONG by Rommel Gojo
Best Contemporary Christian Music

PARIHABA by Engelbert Paculangan
Best Short Film – Fantasy/Horror

SALINGPUSA by Antoinette Jadaone
Best Short Fillm – Comedy

NAMAMAYBAY by Erwin Escalante
Best Short Film – Documentary

BAS BAYABAS
Best Animated Short Film – Kid

KUMOT NG PANAGINIP by Jedd Chris Dimaguina
Best Animated Short Film – Fantasy/Horror

PIRATA by Al Eduardo
Best Short Film – Action/Drama

LYNMAN BACOLOR
Best Independent Solo Artist

NOSEBLEED by Jason Paul Laxamana
ETC Category Winner

BUY THE BOOK: Gabay sa Ordinaryong Taong Katulad Mo by Timmy Harn
Jack TV Category Winner

National Geographic’s “Big Blue”

The Gentle Giants in National Geographic’s Big Blue
By Rianne Hill Soriano

The National Geographic unveils the ocean’s gentle giants, the blue whales, in the “Big Blue.”

The Blue Whales

According to producer Sue Houghton, people have fascination with the charismatic mega fauna – animals that are both huge and appealing. Somehow, in some way, such animals tend to relate more to humans with similar eyes looking back at them. And whales are very much like that. They have a life span just as long as humans, 70-100 years. They usually have babies in their 20’s. They mostly have one or two babies at a time. And they stay with their mothers for a long period for nursing the way humans do. And they are very charismatic. They are so gentle and fragile, yet they are so huge – growing up to 30 meters and weighing up to 200 tons.

Despite their incredible size and wide distribution all over the waters around the globe, hundreds of thousands of blue whales are killed every year. And the “Big Blue” aims to promote a noble mission: to save them and let them have a life to live free from the dangers of humans and technology by providing an honest presentation of how touching life can be for them and for the rest of the life forms in the seas and address the issues about their survival.

The blue whales, along with the other creatures, considerably serve as a barometer of the health of the oceans. Come to think of it, if the largest creatures like the blue whale can’t survive because of what people do to the bodies of water all over the world, perhaps, everyone and everything else, including mankind, can’t survive a contaminated planet in the long term.

About the Big Blue

The research for the project took a lot of work from the development department. After which, a filming period of one year across coastal waters and offshore were done in the US, Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Japan, and Iceland.

The film was shot very traditionally. The team took four HD cameras with them. And while filming, they continually kept doing research – tracking the best locations available.

The Challenges

The major challenge in this kind of production was how rough and unpredictable things could go. There were high chances that the filmmakers won’t get much or not get anything at all. Ideally, the whales could be seen from afar, or their presence could provide a certain odor that could be smelled from the area. However, there were moments when the waves became too high and the whales were of the same color as the ocean that visibility was very hard. And so, everything should be timed exactly right while the crew was living and surviving in a small boat the whole time of filming.

Also, to film whales, the scuba diving gear wasn’t used. The person had to hang on the side of the small boat until he was close enough in front of the whale, then he was dropped off hoping the whale would come up near… that’s how it worked. It’s very imprecise.

At first, the filmmakers thought it’s too difficult, and rather impossible, to get close enough to the blue whales to get the best footages given the physical conditions. But they found it a miracle to meet a mother whale letting her newborn baby play with them. Indeed, they were very lucky to have the opportunity to play around and even film them – with their trust and good will towards “alien creatures” to them as the humans. For them, it was an astonishing experience. They added, “Whales like us, and we like them.”

Seeing the baby whale and having the mother (around three times the size of their boat) bring it over to the filmmakers, and letting her baby come close was quite an experience to them. The whales looked at them. And they communicated with them. And seeing the baby whale exceeded their expectations that the actual filming became such an emotional experience – which hopefully, can be passed on to the viewers of the “Big Blue.”

As the filmmakers went on further, they realized how blue whales were curious. They were individuals like humans in such a way that some of them were quite social and friendly, while some didn’t want to be bothered.

They were also given the chance to film a baby whale shark and a baby sea turtle. Those were really exciting times as it’s very rare to even see juveniles of these species at those sizes. They knew that they were in special places. All these were such a blessing for them. And from such experiences, they said that one thing they learned was that, “we can’t ever control nature, you can only receive the gifts she gives you.”

What Audiences Can Gain in Watching the “Big Blue”

According to Houghton, by watching the “Big Blue,” her team hopes that people would realize that we are not the only important creatures in our planet. We take up so much space that other animals don’t get the space they are expected to have for the lifestyle they need to survive. Respecting other creatures, their habitats, and the ocean in general is really very important. Blue whales never hurt anybody. Interestingly, given their size, they are the most gentle animals in the planet. They hurt nothing and no one; yet, we kill hundreds of thousands of them that within a few decades, we can just totally wipe them out.

People should put themselves in the context of the bigger picture of the planet and have respect for other animals and other beings that have the right to live their lives unmolested the way people expect to live theirs.

The Crittercam

National Geographic uses an impressive technology called the Crittercam to document various animals. It’s a very small video camera, sound recorder, and data recorder that providing important data about the animal like how deep it goes, what angle its body is, and lots of other vital information. It is activated by its attachment to the animal. It runs from a few hours to two days with the animal. And in the case of the blue whales, it gets off the animal and the camera comes off by itself towards the ocean surface. There is a special device to make it float when released from the animal. It sends signals so that it can be followed through its GPS coordinates.

According to the National Geographic, the Crittercam has no side effects to the animals. It is very light and small. It is not invasive and doesn’t penetrate the animal skin in any way.

The Threats

According to the producers of the “Big Blue,” the biggest threat to the blue whales is the big ships. They don’t know if the blue whales can get out of the way fast enough. They don’t know if they hear them. However, it’s scary to think that most ships pass by at night when the whales are resting on the surface of the ocean. Baby whales are even bigger risks because they are usually closer and more often to the surface as they don’t have the lung capacity that adults already do. They don’t know how many of them get hit by the ships as the only ones counted are those who reach the shore or float at sea at a visible time.

Another threat to the blue whales, along with the other creatures of the ocean, are the red tide, the demonic acid – coming from water and climate conditions – basically toxins and chemicals in the water eaten by very small, zooplanktons, then by shrimps, fish, and eventually work their way into the whole ecosystem. The final report on whether this also kills the blue whales (that are so huge as compared to the other animals in the sea) is yet to be finalized. But scientists think that such disorients and confuses them to the point that they can get hit by the big, fast-moving ships.

There’s another threat being studied and addressed – with some fishermen, according to Houghton, mostly Asians and Norwegians – setting great nets and taking everything they can unmindful of whatever gets affected. And sometimes, blue whales (mammals) do get caught up on these nets that they find it hard to get back to the surface to breathe air.

Another threat is how people, mostly in Norway, catch the small microscopic shrimps that blue whales eat to make fish food out of them. People can already be fed in a lot of ways. We can grow our own with our technology. And we don’t have to take away the whale’s food to survive.

Saving the Blue Whales

Hopefully, by watching the “Big Blue,” people can realize that there are lots of other animals in the planet besides humans – and they have all the right to live as well. However, it’s not going to be easy because most people are greedy. People want things for themselves without much concern for the other things in the world. They use bigger modes of transportation to make things come faster. Most of the time, they put them in planes and ships. And in the case of the big ships, they hit the whales and kill them. If governments all over the world can come up with the appropriate laws and if the people can rethink where the ships go to port, how fast they go, and just slowing them down by a few knots, and be concerned of other things in terms of traveling, fishing, and getting resources in the ocean for man’s consumption, then we will be able to save many whales.

Message for the Filipino Audience

The Philippines provides one of the best scuba diving experiences in the whole world. There are so many beautiful seas, so much unusual species… incredible fish and reefs… And far away from the islands where people live, there are creatures living there as well. The big blues live in all oceans. There may not be that many of them anymore, but they go around everywhere in the globe.

Before going to the sea or entering a ship or boat, or before swimming at the beach, may you also remember that it is a gift to be able to go and enjoy the home of animals that co-exist with us.

And finally, the biggest message to take away is that the blue whales are gentle creatures, they don’t harm anyone – and they still trust us enough to share a newborn with us. Such a wonderful opportunity is something to be grateful for. And we need to respect their home, the ocean, in every possible way we can.

Film Event: Cinema Rehiyon

Cinema Rehiyon Opens at CCP
By: Rianne Hill Soriano

Cinema Rehiyon: Alter Nativo, the first national film festival solely focusing on films created outside of Metro Manila, opens at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) on Feb. 18 and will run until Feb. 21, 2009. In celebration of the Philippine International Arts Month, this four-day event will feature short and full-length films created by regional filmmakers and is open to all audiences for free.

A project of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in cooperation with the CCP, Cinema Rehiyon is a non-competition film festival that aims to throw the spotlight on the film communities that are growing rapidly across the nation. It will feature the best and the brightest of the emerging filmmakers who are making movies in their own dialects, set in their own local towns and cities. The representing regions include: Bacolod, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, and Naga. There will also be sections to feature films from Central and Western Mindanao, as well as various parts of Luzon. Most of the films will be shown in Metro Manila for the first time. And there will be a series of panel talks to discuss the state of regional cinema and how it affects the state of national cinema.

The Philippines is a nation of many diverse cultures. Being an archipelago spanning thousands of islands with people speaking hundreds of different dialects, Cinema Rehiyon is a great opportunity for both the local filmmakers and the general audience to reach each other – which will hopefully lead to a greater appreciation of the kinds of cinema being made across the nation in terms of subject matter, content, style and genre. By drawing attention to the works of filmmakers in the provinces, there is further hope and inspiration on gaining a better understanding of the kind of cinema made across the country – films that reflect traditions, customs, and lifestyles of the Filipinos’ diverse cultural heritage.

For more details and other inquiries, contact cinemarehiyon@yahoo.com or cinema_rehiyon2009@yahoo.com. You can also check out the schedule at NCCA’s website www.ncca.gov.ph.

Film Article: Sam Concepcion Goes “Kung Fu Fighting”

Sam Concepcion Goes “Kung Fu Fighting”
By: Rianne Hill Soriano

The teen music artist and Dep-Ed Ambassador for the Youth Sam Concepcion tries out for something big… and a week after, he gets the major stint. For the first time, a Filipino artist sings the theme song for a major Hollywood production. Sam sings “Kung Fu Fighting” for Dreamworks’ animated film “Kung Fu Panda.” And the Filipino audience will be privileged to hear Sam’s voice in the closing credits of the said animated feature.

According to Sam, he is definitely honored for the opportunity – being another first for the Filipinos in the entertainment industry having a break for an international project. He looks forward to more doors opening for the Filipino artists to thrive both in the local and international arena.

Everything happened so fast. From the time he auditioned to the actual recording to the shooting of the music video, things really passed by in a whim. And while working with his best efforts in every single moment that he needs to deliver for the project, things were actually just starting to sink in on him. And above all, he kept himself on the ground while giving the best quality of work to make the Filipinos proud of his feat, which is a feat for the whole country as well.

The song was remixed to suit Sam and the Filipino market. All the elements were tailor-made to match his personality and for it to fit the desires of the Filipino audience. And after the much-anticipated recording of “Kung Fu Fighting,” he readily moved on to the rehearsal of the dance choreography of the song. After the one-day rehearsal, they shot the music video the next day. And that’s another thing to look forward to: the music video boasting of a number of animated works and special effects, and of course, a number of “Kung Fu.” Expect the sight of a dragon kicking and flying with Sam and the rest of his Kung Fu trainers.

Just like the theme of the film saying: “You are empowered to achieve anything you want; and if you set your mind to it, you can be the best that you can be…” Sam’s success is a living testimony to the story’s very message. Indeed, you can accomplish what you dream for if you keep your mind and heart open for the best intentions, work hard to hone your talents, and have the courage to try out the most possible number of opportunities that come your way.

Dreamworks’ “Kung Fu Panda” is showing on June 6 through Solar-UIP.

Karsel screens at UST CineVita Film Festival on March 7

Rianne Hill Soriano’s first 35mm short film “Karsel,” her thesis film at the University of the Philippines Film Institute (UPFI), screens at the 2nd CineVita Film Festival on March 7, 10 A.M., at the Thomas Aquinas Research Center (TARC) auditorium, University of Santo Tomas, España, Manila.

“Karsel,” recipient of the Kodak Film Award 2003 and Best Production Thesis of UPFI, is a 20-minute film that delves into a young adult female’s submission to the conventions of a traditional home and her struggle for her liberation.

The film was made possible by the generosity of a number of people and institutions including Seiko Films providing the camera, lighting, and grip equipment, LVN Pictures Inc. for the processing, printing and editing of the film, and Optima Digital for the telecine transfer and colorgrading.

“Karsel” was also nominated for the 17th Gawad Urian for Best Short Film, competed at the Tel Aviv International Film Festival 2004 (Israel), and was a finalist for the 1st Indeo Film and Video Festival 2004 and International Women’s Film Festival 2006. It was also exhibited at the Pelikula at Lipunan Film and Video Festival 2004, Celebrating Women – Women’s Film Festival 2004, Eksperimento Film Festival 2004, UP Diliman Film and Video Festival 2004, 1st Pi Omicron Independent Film Festival 2004, Illuminations: Awarded Student Films of the UP Cinema Arts Society 2006, and a number of screenings in various school and art house events.

The film features thespians Summer Sumera, Gigi Pirote, Ermie Concepcion, Chum Aquino, Dingdong Rosales, Pam Sto. Domingo, Roma Regala, and Rico del Rosario. The production staff includes Rianne Hill Soriano as Director/Writer/ Executive Producer/Editor/Director of Photography, Eli Balce as Director of Photography, Chrisel Galeno as Production Designer, Joy Puntawe as 1st Asst. Director, Herbert Navasca as 2nd Asst. Director, Kiko Ortega as Musical Scorer, Noel Bruan as Sound Engineer, and Kiel Sandico-Fernandez, Madz Mandia, Joselle Acuña, and Janice Atencio as Production Managers.

Rianne also directed the 35mm short film “Aninag” which was screened at the Louis Vuitton Hawaii International Film Festival 2006, New York Filipino Film Festival 2005, UNESCO Audio-Visual E-Platform, Clermont Ferrand Short Film Market 2005, 4th Neo-Angono Artists
Collective 2007, and competed at the New York International Independent Film and Video Festival 2005 and Viva’s PBO Digitales Film Competition 2006 where it won 3rd Place. She is currently in the post-production stage of her new short film “Pera-perahang Lata.” Both films were grants from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).

The CineVita Film Festival, which focuses on positive, life-affirming features, short films, and documentaries, is organized by The Varsitarian, official student publication of UST, and Institute
of Religion, with the UST Journalism Society, UST Literary Society, and Concilium Philosophiae.

Rianne works as a freelance director and writer. She is also currently a film writer for Yehey.com and a part-time educator for the First Academy of Computer Arts in Buendia, Makati City teaching filmmaking, scriptwriting, and directing and Colegio de San Lorenzo in Quezon City teaching photography, scriptwriting, and video production.

Check out the CINEVITA FILM FESTIVAL 2008

Sked: CINEVITA FILM FESTIVAL, March 5 to 7, TARC Auditorium, UST
*FREE ADMISSION, but only local films are open to the public
(Organized by The Varsitarian, official student publication of the University of Santo Tomas, and Institute of Religion in with UST Journalism Society, UST Literary Society, and Concilium Philosophiae)

My 2003 thesis film “Karsel” will be showing on March 7, 10:00 a. m. Hope you can watch it… along with the rest of the films featured at the festival.
March 5, Wednesday
8 A.M. OPENING CEREMONIES
*Registration
9 – 9:30 A.M. A CHILD FROM CHINA (documentary, Aurora Santiago)
*Registration
9:40 – 11:10 A.M. FOSTER CHILD (full-length feature, Brillante Mendoza)
*Lunch break and registration
1 – 3:40 P.M. FIVE PEOPLE YOU MEET IN HEAVEN (foreign film, Lloyd Kramer)
*Registration
4 – 4:20 P.M. SA KAMBAS NG LIPUNAN (documentary, Joey Velasco)
*Registration
4:30 – 6 P.M. ENDO (full-length feature, Jade Castro)

March 6, Thursday
8 – 8:15 A.M. ESTROPA (documentary, Sheryl Rose Andes and Michael Juancho Galang)
*Registration
8:20 – 9:50 A.M. TRIBU (full-length feature, Jim Libiran)
*Registration
10 A.M. – 12:10 P.M. SHADOWLANDS (foreign film, Richard Attenborough)
*Lunch break and registration
1 – 1:15 P.M. AMBULANCIA (short film, Richard Legaspi)
*Registration
1:20 – 2:50 P.M. TRABAHO (full-length feature, Ned Trespeces)
*Registration
3 – 4:15 P.M. ANINO (full-length feature, John Isiah Reyes, UST College of Nursing)
*Registration
4:20 – 4:40 P.M. TUNAY NA BUHAY (documentary, Jasper Chavez Zarzuela)
*Registration
4:50 – 5:20 P.M. LABABO (short film, Seymour Barros Sanchez)
*Registration
5:30 – 7:10 P.M. CHINA CRY (foreign film, James F. Collier)

March 7, Friday
8 – 10 A.M. PAY IT FORWARD (foreign film, Mimi Leder)
*Registration
10:10 – 10:30 A.M. KARSEL (short film, Rianne Hill Soriano)
*Registration
10:40 – 11:10 A.M. TUTOS (short film, Louise Anne Yamsuan)
*Registration
11:15 – 11:45 A.M. UNCONVENTIONAL WARFARE (documentary, Anna Isabelle Matutina and Herbert Villalon Docena)
*Lunch break and registration
1 – 2:50 P.M. BARAKO (full-length feature, Manolito Sulit, UST)
*Registration
3:15 – 4:50 P.M. TIRADOR (full-length feature, Brillante Mendoza)
*Registration
5 – 5:30 P.M. SONDA (documentary, UST College of Nursing)
*Registration
5:40 – 7:20 P.M. STILL LIFE (full-length feature, Katski Flores)
CLOSING CEREMONIES

*Registration: first-come, first-served basis (4 classes per film showing)
*20-30 seats will be reserved for guests and walk-in audiences
*Foreign films are exclusively for UST students, professors, and officials
*Audience for each film are requested to be in the venue 15 minutes before the showing starts (for registration)
*OPEN FORUM for films with attending directors (or cast/crew)

Clickthecity.com Article: “Pera-perahang Lata” Nears Completion

After the success of her first two short films “Aninag” (New York International Independent Film and Video Festival 2005, Louis Vuitton Hawaii International Film Festival 2006, New York Filipino Film Festival 2005, UNESCO Audio-Visual E-Platform, 3rd Place at Viva’s PBO Digitales Film Competition 2006) and “Karsel” (Kodak Film Award 2003 and Best Production Thesis 2003 of the UP Film Institute, International Women’s Film Festival 2006 and Nominee for the Gawad Urian Best Short Film 2003), writer-director Rianne Hill Soriano saw an opportunity to make a third film with “Pera-perahang Lata,” a film that explores the journey of a young factory worker during the Christmas season.

For the rest of the article, click here.

Invitation to watch my film Aninag at Penguin Bar, along with other shorts from woman filmmakers, enjoy the music of rocking moms

PR for Club O

DISH is now Club O!
By: Rianne Hill Soriano | YEHEY! Contributors
15 January 2007 | 10:59AM

DISH is wearing a new name in 2007 – Club O Resto-Bar, the newest premier entertainment bar in the Metro located at the ABS-CBN Complex, Mother Ignacia St., Quezon City, Manila.

Indeed, Club O’s successful launch last Jan. 10, 2006 proves that Club O shall soon live up to its vision to become the home of premier entertainment in the Metro. With the “O” shape bar as its centerpiece, its new name really fits well. The establishment has a lot of circles and round figures carefully crafted to draw crowd appeal suiting the diverse tastes of its customers.

According to Martin Jay Ong, Events & Marketing Head, who also dabbles as Head of NITRAM Entertainment Production, an Events and Artist Management-Booking office, Club O is complete with amenities fit for different events and functions with its new VIP rooms installed with videoke facility that can accommodate as much as 30 people. The bar also highlights its sound and lighting section complete with a band set-up that can be used by bands and artists during shows and events. It also offers free WIFI access to guests with mobile gadgets.

Club O could fit as much as 450-500 people at a time depending on seating arrangements.

“We wanted to be known not just for a different dining experience but as a venue for great shows, parties and events; thus we wanted to position the establishment as the new premier entertainment resto-bar in the Metro,” said Martin.

Gracing the launch of Club O last Jan. 10 were a number of music talents including Nyoy Volante, Freeverse, Lance Raymundo, Pinoy Dream Academy Band, and Phil. Idol finalist Reymond Sajor.

As a blast-off for 2007, Club O has lined–up big music artists and themed nights such as the gigs of MYMP on Jan. 17, Nyoy Volante (birthday show) on Jan. 24 and the Soul Siren Nina on Jan. 31. These gigs have the Freeverse band as opening act.

Club O’s Thursday Retro-Nights feature the New Circus Band and Retrospect with their classic brand of ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s music. Friday R&B-House Clubbing Nights feature the Wiseguys and DJ Norman. Saturday House Clubbing Nights feature DJ Melvin.

Club O is open almost 24 hours, because of its all-day breakfast and soon merienda offerings from 4 a.m. to 7 p.m., from Tuesday to Saturday. Club O primarily caters to guests from ABS-CBN and RMH (Call Center) Group, but it is definitely open to all.

Club O is available for any functions, shows and events. For inquires, call Mico, Michelle, Caroline, Edgar & Martin @ (632) 4130603/ 4130614/ telefax 4130615 or email club_o_restobar@yahoo.com.ph.

‘Burn Baby Burn’ Rocks the Mall of Asia

By: Rianne Hill Soriano | YEHEY! Contributors
29 November 2006 | 8:54 AM

It has been a long, worthwhile wait… Indeed, ‘Burn,’ the hottest music and lifestyle magazine in town, has come out with the biggest music party of the year: ‘Burn Baby Burn’ – the Burn Music Magazine Launch Concert. This rocking event conquered the Music Hall of the SM Mall of Asia last Nov. 23, 2006 from 5 p. m. until midnight with non-stop music and prizes to feed the musical soul of the audience.

Popping the ears of the party people with much anticipation and excitement were a number of renowned musical acts: rock and alternative, ska, punk, reggae, bossa nova, jazz, and soul. Invading the center stage with the biggest roster of performers all in one major music event in the biggest mall of the country include performances from: Radioactive Sago Project, Sitti, Orange and Lemons, Johnny Alegre, Moonstar88, Hemp Republic, Sugarfree, Callalily, Drip, Chillitees, Itchyworms, Up Dharma Down, Hale, Sino Sikat?, Pupil, Imago, Spy, Bamboo, Jeepney Joyride, Nyco Maca, Dice & K9, Pinikpikan, 6CycleMind, Chillitees, and lots of more exciting bands and musicians living to the beat of their best and most popular tunes.

It may be one of the biggest music events to cap the year 2006, but such a great lineup is very much accessible to anyone who just presents any of the latest issues of ‘Burn’ magazine (the August-September or November-December issues). There was also an option to buy tickets from Ticketworld (Tower Records/Music One). Best of all, the party people gaining entry to this exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime event were treated with the biggest line-up of music artists amidst the loads of awesome prizes, including an Ibanez GRX 40 electric guitar with an amplifier, courtesy of Audiophile. A number of booths exhibited great products with some freebies as well. VIPs were treated with great food from Gerry’s Grille and a number of free booze of their choices. With a lineup this big, the clamor for all these became deafening in all floors of the SM Mall of Asia North Deck.

This event is made possible by BURN: The Music Magazine for Everyone, SM Mall of Asia, Motorola, Colt45, Audiophile, Bratpack, Creative, Pony, Xtreme Magic Sing, Airborne Access, MPIO, and Human, in cooperation with Gerry’s Grill, the events official food sponsor, Absolut, Maxxium Philippines, Charly Brown, Music One, Tower Records, Hero, Jack TV, UNTv, MTV, Wave 89.1, NU 107, 105.1 Crossover, Jam 88.3, 103.5 KLite, INQ 7, Hinge Inquirer Publications and the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Personal Interview with New Recording Artist Amber

Amber reveals herself like a precious gem

By : Rianne Hill Soriano | YEHEY! Contributors
4 July 2006 | 9:26 AM

After a successful show at SM Megamall last July 1, 2006, the new Viva recording artist Amber reveals herself backstage in a one-on-one interview and proves that she fits her name being a treasured gem as she is.

Tagged as the new pop jewel coming back to the Philippines after spending her adolescent years in the US, this half-Pinay, half-American talent pursues a professional singing career with the launch of her debut album ‘Feel Good Music.’ This 12-track album promotes a combination of various themes and soulful beats – from fun, upbeat and mid-tempo love ballads with some alternative pop vive and some soul and R&B turns to inspirational songs about love and appreciation. Her carrier single ‘Manila,’ which is already hitting the airwaves and topping the radio charts, speaks of the joys of living in this crowded and crazy but wonderfully unique city.

Amber (Amber Alejo Rowley) developed her vocal skills since childhood. She was born in the US but was relocated to the Philippines at age 5. At the age 14, it was tough for her to leave her friends and loved ones as she needed to go back to the US to continue her studies there. She joined a church choir back in high school and auditioned to a madrigal choir where she further honed her skills as a soprano 1 (performing the higher notes within the group). She looks forward to going back, and finally, she is back here now as a rising pop star.

Her music roots really exposed her to various types of music. But above all, her pop culture influences contributed much to her professional career now. Prior to her recording stint at Viva, she already performed with different touring groups and even did background vocals for artists like Hillary Duff. She recorded 2 singles for the movie soundtrack of ‘Playa’s Ball.’ She also had a couple of stints in Osaka, Japan where she worked as a lead vocalist for the popular rock/hip-hop stage show Enwhy. And after her feat in Japan, she went back to the Philippines seeking opportunities to serve her Pinoy roots.

Amber is definitely in focus. She is here to do her thing and fulfill her dreams. According to her, she is trying to go where she feels she’s supposed to be – seeing the door and walking through it. She is very fortunate to have the right opportunities upon her return to the Philippines and serve her dreams here. Indeed, the warm welcome from her carrier track ‘Manila’ makes her more inspired day by day as she hears it played over the radio like crazy. She is very happy that the radio stations and listeners are very supportive and favorable of her debut song. And she finds a lot of fun in doing club and mall shows and radio tours as well.

Amber’s album draws a lot of inspirations from her various experiences and artists she looks up to like Mariah Carey (paying homage to Mariah’s classic hit song ‘Hero’ by doing a rendition of it during her mall show at Megamall). And with her hit single ‘Manila,’ it becomes more than just a literal interpretation of her homecoming – it is an allegory of her great dream of finally coming back home to the Philippines – ‘I grew up here, and I have a lot of good memories in Manila,’ says Amber. Before she left the country at age 14, she had a lot of friends and loved ones to leave behind. Her great memories here have always made her want to go back. But according to her, ‘When you have a lot of things doing already as a maturing teenager with skills being honed and a career being built, you do this, you do that, and once you’re working hard, it’s difficult to go back right away…’ And when the right time and opportunity has finally come, here she is with an album about life, about experiences and about people. And now, she looks forward to doing more albums here in the Philippines as more experiences gained make her want to put them into music (she wrote 2 songs from her ‘Feel Good Music’ album).

Proud of her music video of ‘Manila,’ she wants to invite everyone to check it out at the music channels. Shot in Roxas Boulevard, she finds herself very lucky with cameos of a number of personalities including Keith Martin who played as one of his bodyguards. The concept and the whole video has become a great collaboration for her and the production team.

About her love life, right now, Amber is more attuned to her career and she is definitely single. She had been into some relationships way back in the US but she never had the chance to have a Pinoy boyfriend yet. She said that during her stay here in the Philippines, she was too young to enter into a romantic relationship. And when she was in the US as an adolescent, though she was already considering getting into relationships, their area in Los Angeles mostly have Americans and no much Filipinos had been in her midst even in school. She is open to dating a Pinoy guy and she has no exact preference with regards to dating and partnership. Her concern is not about the race nor the color but the overall attitude and the beating of her heart.

Singing is Amber’s true passion and fulfillment. And more than this, she is open to anything in this vast business as getting into TV, movies or anything that comes up to her as she knows that each opportunity keeps up to her constantly growing career. But as for now, her main focus is her singing career.

This new Viva recording artist has a true heart for the Filipino audience. Seeing her very humble, bubbly and yet matured attitude backstage, she has fluently conversed in Filipino with the words of as gratitude to people behind the mall show. Her transparency and outlook in life are something to look up to as well. At the age 20, she knows the world she has entered. She feels like that same ordinary gal named Amber. Some people tend to become different to her now since she is already a music personality; but for her, she has never really changed that much. She knows that some things tend to change because of her status now but she tries her best to make her friends and family feel that she is one and the same Amber the way they have known her. And being in the tough showbiz world as she is, she is brave enough to say that she does hope that she won’t really change negatively with her pursuit for success in this spectacular and yet harsh arena of stardom.

Personally, with my interview with Amber, my wish for her is: “May she stand out like a real jewel as what the word ‘amber’ denotes – a gem that started from a resin hardened into a soft, warm, golden spectacle and a fossil that has witnessed a lot about life and shares a part of it through its magnificent yellow color and shine. May she not change from that humility and good attitude I have seen.”

Can Amber keep up with the tough world of the industry she has started? She looks up to many artists and she especially mentioned Celine Dion as one of the greatest artists she really admires. More than a great career and an undoubtedly powerful voice, Celine�s great attitude towards life in general and her love and care for her family all inspires Amber. Hopefully, may she stand a long period of time like the gem she has been named for and the superstar she has looked up to.

Poets, writers and artists look to amber for sunny inspirations. Gemologists and jewelers desire amber for its beauty. Curators archive amber for its life-enduring splendor. And new-found friends and fans of ‘Amber’ are all invited on July 15 at Hard Rock Makati for a blast of a show meant for everyone’s entertainment.

Amber’s debut Album ‘Feel Good Music’ is now available at all major record stores nationwide and is distributed by Viva Records.

Royalty Free Music Search

Interview with Boy Band Same Same

Same Same up close
By : Rianne Hill Soriano | YEHEY! Contributors
13 June 2006 | 8:19 AM

From Moffatts to Same Same. Bob and Clint, two of the triplets of one of the most successful pop/rock bands of the 90′s are back – and they are now hitting the airwaves as the new band Same Same. They are presently here in Manila to promote their debut album ‘The Meaning of Happy’ with their latest single ‘Love Isn’t.’ And in a press conference last June 10, 2006 at Red Box Karaoke, Greenbelt 3, the 22-year old Bob and Clint reveal the what’s, why’s and how’s of their personal and professional lives as young adults and as Same Same.

Along with their brothers Dave and Scott, Bob and Clint practically grew up in a family of music lovers. The brothers started with a professional country music act in 1994 until they got the biggest break as performers when they signed to a major label recording contract in 1995 as the Moffatts. Indeed, they have come a long way. And now that they are exploring their own careers more independently, let us get up close and personal with Bob and Clint, now collectively known as Same Same.

During the interview, they revealed how they and their other brothers are still very much hooked up into playing video games. But ironically, Bob and Clint confess how sentimental and melodramatic they are when it comes to the music they listen to – they really love to listen and sing to the tunes of the likes of Chicago, the Beatles, Bryan Adams and Queen. And somehow, these have influenced the kind of music they have made as Same Same.

According to Bob and Clint, when they’re together, they would always say ‘same same’ – a sort of expression that really got into them. And later on, they took the said expression for the launch of their new career as a duo. Well, their new name matches them anyway: they are twins; they practically look the same; they both love wearing Diesel clothes; they are proud to admit they love free stuff; and they really love their sponsors… But it’s easy to figure out who’s who since Clint grew some beard and mustache while Bob has blonde hair now.

How are the guys now? This is an excerpt from the interview:

What are your inspirations for your album together as Same Same?

I think just being back together and just trying to be creative together again, you know. Everytime we spend time together with our brothers in Canada in the past few years, we never really wrote songs together. We just hang out, play video games. We really just chilled out. And I think that’s what made us closer because when we traveled together as the Moffatts, we were around each other playing for 24 hours a day. We took each other for granted. And now we know, everytime we see each other we just hang out, and it’s cool. But getting back together (as Same Same) is something we haven�t done for a long time, and we’re really having a creative time.

After working as part of the Moffatts for more than a decade, how do you work together now as Same Same?

We really listen to a lot of music together and this is what actually influences us. When we sit down together we are really able to hash the spirit. Now based in Thailand, it is something different for us really ‘coz there are lots of different musical styles there. We keep our hands pretty much on everything, the whole process. We listen to different styles. It was a great working environment – very influential to us. Making the album and playing the music by ear, we feel the great chemistry. Great experiences… a lot of fun!

Besides here in Southeast Asia, are you going to release it in a broader scale, internationally?

I think we’ll just play it by ear, we just know that we made this record over here, at this time of the year, we’ll see what happens… If we go somewhere, if it goes somewhere else, we’ll go there. But we�ll spend more time here for now.

You said you are more ‘hands on’ to the making of your album now. When it comes to the making of your music videos, how involved are you in the process?

We try to be a part of the creative process but overall we leave it up to our director. Like we worked with this Thai movie director… he treated the music video like a film, 1 shot in 10 different angles… it was really interesting, lots of fun! But we try to… as far as like the idea, it has to kinda work with us as well.

Do you consider making a music video for one of your songs here in the Philippines some time soon?

There are no plans yet right now but it would be nice! (To Same Same: Maybe you can consider that�) Absolutely! And we’re not too far away! That would be nice.

How was it working with a Filipino artist?

Lovi (Poe)? She’s great, she’s been a great collaboration for us. The first time we met her we’re in Indonesia. When she came over to shoot the video, she was totally a professional. We were having a lot of fun. She’s a very talented artist, great singer, and does her own writing as well.

Based from your recent performances, how did you find the Filipino audience now?

It was great! It was pretty awesome, kinda the first thing we did here… There was a very warm response from our fans. They are much more energetic to those audiences throughout Asia – coz a lot of them are very calm and shy…

How can you compare the experience before as Moffatts and now as Same Same?

Well, it’s a little more quiet… ‘coz it takes time, you know. I mean, with the Moffatts, we�re together for 19 years, very long process before that sort of thing happened. So we�re just having a lot of fun, what ever happens happens… But yesterday (their show at SM Mall of Asia), it was very nice!

We all know that your passion is really music, but are you considering acting too – as how a number of music artists are getting into as well?

(Response from Clint) Yeah, actually before we got into Thailand I was actually doing that. It was one of the things I wanted to do, a sort of change of pace, just try it out. But there’s too many people doing that in LA, and you really don’t get anywhere, you just keep on talking to the same people all the time on the same stuff… I rather learn in other places if there’s an offer on the table. But if you ask, it is kinda hardly now, I’m focused on this part, but acting is always something that I wanted to do.

Are there any plans of a second album already?

Absolutely! We had so much fun making this one and I think there is so much more we can do in the future and start growing with and better at.

Will there be a chance that you can perform with your brothers again?

Right now probably not because we all have the little things we’re doing. Scott is still working on a solo project for the last year in LA… Dave is just separately handled with his solo project… And if those things are all planned out, then maybe in a few years time we can go back…

Aside from writing their own songs, Same Same co-produced the album which also features the catchy singles ‘Supermodel’ ‘Stay,’ ‘Tell Me,’ ‘City Lights,’ ‘It Can’t Get Any Worse,’ ‘Strange Lover’ and the title track ‘The Meaning Of Happy.’ Their debut album ‘The Meaning Of Happy’ is now out in CDs at only P355 under Sony BMG Music Entertainment. Same Same ‘The Meaning of Happy’ Philippine Promo Tour is brought to you by PLDT My Music, official media partners ABS-CBN and MYX. Special thanks to Studio 23, ABS-CBN.com, WRR 101.9, Cinema One, Beverly Hills, Red Box, Yehey.com and Crowne Plaza the official residence of Same Same in Manila.

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