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Journey to the Stars with Pixar’s Elio – Coming Soon to Australian Cinemas

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What if the thing you were searching for found you first? That’s the big question posed by Disney and Pixar’s upcoming animated adventure, Elio. This hilariously heartfelt misadventure is set to transport audiences to the dazzling reaches of the galaxy, where one unlikely Earthling becomes an interstellar hero. With a teaser trailer and poster now available, fans can catch a glimpse of this exciting journey before it launches into Australian cinemas on June 19, 2025.

A Story That’s Out of This World

Elio introduces us to a boy like no other—a dreamer with a big imagination and an even bigger love for aliens. Played by Yonas Kibreab, Elio’s life takes a wild turn when he’s suddenly beamed aboard an otherworldly meeting place known as the Communiverse. This vibrant interplanetary hub is home to beings from galaxies far and wide. But there’s one big twist: the aliens mistakenly believe that Elio is Earth’s leader!

As Elio tries to navigate his new role, he’ll encounter extraordinary creatures, form unexpected friendships, and face challenges that test his courage and heart. Along the way, he’ll have to protect Earth’s reputation while chasing his ultimate dream of connecting with the cosmos.

An Out-of-This-World Cast

Bringing this cosmic tale to life is a stellar voice cast:

  • Yonas Kibreab stars as Elio, the earnest and adventurous protagonist.
  • Zoe Saldaña lends her voice to Aunt Olga, Elio’s fiercely protective yet loving guardian.
  • Remy Edgerly voices Glordon, a quirky alien ally.
  • Brad Garrett takes on the role of Lord Grigon, a larger-than-life galactic leader.
  • Jameela Jamil portrays Ambassador Questa, a poised and enigmatic figure in the Communiverse.
  • Shirley Henderson voices OOOOO, whose name is as mysterious as their character!

The Creative Minds Behind Elio

Behind the scenes, Elio boasts a powerhouse team of directors and producers who are no strangers to tugging at heartstrings and sparking imaginations.

  • Madeline Sharafian (Burrow) brings her unique storytelling style to the director’s chair.
  • Domee Shi, the creative mind behind Pixar’s Turning Red and Bao, joins the team with her knack for blending heart and humour.
  • Adrian Molina, co-screenwriter and co-director of the Oscar-winning Coco, infuses the film with emotional depth and cultural richness.
  • Mary Alice Drumm, associate producer of Coco, steps in as producer to guide the movie’s development.

Together, this dream team promises a movie that’s as visually dazzling as it is emotionally resonant.

A Visual Feast Awaits

The teaser trailer gives us a first look at Elio’s stunning animation and imaginative world-building. From the sprawling, technicolour landscapes of the Communiverse to the unique designs of its alien inhabitants, Pixar’s trademark attention to detail is on full display. Each frame bursts with colour, energy, and creativity, making this one of 2025’s most visually exciting releases.

The accompanying poster adds to the intrigue, featuring Elio gazing up at a swirling galaxy of stars, planets, and alien lifeforms. It’s a perfect snapshot of the film’s sense of wonder and adventure, teasing a journey filled with surprises at every turn.

Themes That Resonate Across Galaxies

Beyond the stunning visuals and comedic escapades, Elio explores universal themes of identity, belonging, and courage. At its heart, the film is a coming-of-age story about finding your place in the universe—both literally and figuratively. As Elio grapples with his new role as Earth’s leader, he learns the importance of embracing who he is, forming connections, and standing up for what matters most.

For kids, it’s an empowering message about the strength found in individuality. For adults, it’s a nostalgic reminder of the big dreams and boundless curiosity we all had as children.

Countdown to Launch

Elio is set to take Australian audiences on a thrilling intergalactic adventure when it hits cinemas on June 19, 2025. As we countdown to the big day, the teaser trailer and poster offer a tantalising glimpse of what’s to come. With its heartfelt story, stunning animation, and unforgettable characters, this Pixar masterpiece promises to be a must-watch for families and fans alike.

So, buckle up and get ready for the ride of a lifetime—Elio is about to take you to infinity and beyond!

Did You Know?

  • Elio is Pixar’s first film to fully explore the concept of alien life.
  • The Communiverse features hundreds of unique alien designs, each with its own quirky personality!
  • Director Madeline Sharafian drew inspiration from her own childhood dreams of outer space.

Make sure to mark your calendars, and don’t miss this out-of-this-world adventure!

Disney+ Unveils Goosebumps: The Vanishing – A Chilling New Season Premiering January 2025

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Disney+ has announced the return of its thrilling anthology series, Goosebumps, with the newest season titled Goosebumps: The Vanishing, set to premiere on 10 January 2025. Fans can look forward to a suspenseful journey across all eight episodes, which will be available for streaming upon release. The recently dropped trailer and key artwork offer a sneak peek at Emmy® Award nominee David Schwimmer, who takes on the intriguing role of Anthony Brewer, a former botany professor steeped in science and mystery.

Goosebumps, one of Scholastic’s most iconic book series, is renowned worldwide as a best-selling phenomenon. This new season taps into some of the series’ most beloved and eerie tales, blending classic elements from books like Stay Out of the Basement, The Haunted Car, Monster Blood, The Girl Who Cried Monster, The Ghost Next Door, Welcome to Camp Nightmare, and more, creating a spine-tingling tapestry of horror and adventure.

Season Overview
In Goosebumps: The Vanishing, we follow twins Cece and Devin Brewer as they head to Gravesend, Brooklyn, to spend the summer with their divorced father, played by Schwimmer. Yet their holiday quickly turns dark when they realise that a mysterious force is lurking, and secrets buried in Gravesend surfacing again. As they investigate, Cece, Devin, and their friends – Alex, CJ, and Frankie – uncover clues about the eerie disappearance of four teenagers in 1994, plunging them into a web of danger and supernatural intrigue.

Cast and Production
Alongside Schwimmer, the cast includes Ana Ortiz as Jen, Jayden Bartels as Cece, Sam McCarthy as Devin, Elijah M. Cooper as CJ, Galilea La Salvia as Frankie, Francesca Noel as Alex, and Stony Blyden as Trey. With a diverse ensemble cast and fresh, youthful faces, the season is set to captivate both long-time fans and a new generation.

A powerhouse team helms the series. Goosebumps: The Vanishing was developed by Nicholas Stoller and Rob Letterman, with Hilary Winston as showrunner. Stoller, Letterman, and Winston also serve as executive producers, joined by Neal H. Moritz, Iole Lucchese, and Caitlin Friedman from Scholastic Entertainment, Pavun Shetty, Conor Welch, Erin O’Malley, Karl Frankenfield, and James Eagan.

As Disney+ builds upon its commitment to quality family-friendly thrillers, Goosebumps: The Vanishing mixes nostalgia and fresh horror, drawing audiences back into the heart of the Goosebumps universe.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by  Disney+ . Check out the trailer below:

Paddington in Peru: Your Chance to Join the Adventure of a Lifetime!

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WIN 4 movie passes to PADDINGTON IN PERU, thanks to FilmCentral Magazine in collaboration with @studiocanalau! Get ready for an epic journey with everyone’s favourite bear!

Official Synopsis  

PADDINGTON IN PERU brings Paddington’s story back to Peru as he returns to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, who resides at the Home for Retired Bears. With the Brown Family in tow, a thrilling adventure ensues when a mystery plunges them into an unexpected journey through the Amazon rainforest and up to the mountain peaks of Peru.

Release Date: In Cinemas January 1

Duration: 106 minutes

Classification: PG | Censorship Advice: Mild themes

Join Paddington, the Browns, and Aunt Lucy on an unexpected journey through the Amazon and beyond. Don’t miss this heartwarming adventure in cinemas on January 1.

To enter, email lex@starcentralmag.com — first come, first serve!

#PaddingtonInPeru

A Night to Remember: Bump Cast Celebrates Final Season at Barangaroo Screening

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Photo Credit: Dave Choo

Last Wednesday evening, December 4, the stars aligned over Sydney’s Barangaroo as fans and creators of the Stan Original Series Bump gathered for a heartfelt send-off. The iconic show, which has left an indelible mark on the television landscape, is nearing its end, with the fifth and final season set to debut on Boxing Day.

The event, hosted at the whimsical Mov’in Bed outdoor cinema, delivered a mix of nostalgia and celebration under the summer sky. Fans were treated to a double-episode screening and an engaging Q&A session hosted by none other than Dylan Alcott, whose effortless charm and cheeky banter brought the evening to life. Alcott’s playful exchanges, particularly with Paula Garcia, added a vibrant energy, leaving attendees in stitches while celebrating a series that has become a cultural cornerstone.

A Celebration of Storytelling

The farewell was a fitting tribute to a series that redefined family drama with its wit, authenticity, and heart. Claudia Karvan, both a lead actress and producer, reflected on the journey with evident pride:

“It is Kelsey Munro and the writing team—Tim, Nick, Shanti, and all the writers we’ve had over the five seasons. Beautiful writing, a sense of place and authenticity, and a connection between the amazing cast. I feel like a very proud TV mum.”

Karvan’s portrayal of Angie, a complex and fiercely loving mother, has been central to the show’s appeal. Her remarks underscored what made Bump special: its ability to balance humour and pathos while navigating the chaos of modern family life.

Angus Sampson, who played the affably flawed Dom, echoed her sentiments, expressing gratitude to the audience, crew, and Stan for their unwavering support over five years.

“I’m humbled to be a small part of this family,” he shared.

A Story That Resonates Globally

When Bump first premiered in January 2021, it introduced audiences to Oly (Nathalie Morris), a high-achieving teenager whose world turns upside down when she unexpectedly becomes a mother. What followed was a raw and tender exploration of family dynamics, charting the ripple effects of Oly’s unplanned parenthood.

The show’s brilliance lay in its relatability. From the intergenerational clashes between parents and children to the complexities of relationships, Bump masterfully blended humour with the poignancy of real life.

Its success was so profound that it spawned a spin-off, Year Of, in June 2023, expanding the universe with new stories and characters while maintaining the heart and humour fans had come to love.

An Emotional Final Season

The upcoming season promises to raise the stakes, tackling themes of love, loss, and resilience. One storyline, involving Angie’s battle with cancer, is poised to be particularly gut-wrenching.

Karvan noted that this season would push boundaries even further, offering a conclusion that honours the show’s commitment to authenticity.

“Bump has always been about capturing the messy, beautiful realities of family life,” she said.

With each character’s journey coming full circle, the finale is set to be a poignant farewell for audiences who have grown alongside them.

A Night to Remember

The farewell event featured the show’s powerhouse ensemble, including Nathalie Morris, Carlos Sanson Jr., Ava Cannon, Christian Byers, Steph Tisdell, and more. Co-creator Kelsey Munro and producers John and Dan Edwards joined in the celebration, reflecting on the incredible journey from concept to cultural phenomenon.

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the Q&A session, where fans were treated to behind-the-scenes stories and heartfelt goodbyes. Dylan Alcott’s quick wit and Paula Garcia’s candid anecdotes kept the crowd engaged, striking a perfect balance between laughter and sentiment.

A Legacy Beyond the Screen

Bump will be remembered not just as a television series but as a cultural touchstone. Its sharp writing, nuanced performances, and distinctly authentic voice have resonated with audiences worldwide, offering a window into the complexities of family and relationships.

As the final season approaches, fans can expect a rollercoaster of emotions—tears, laughter, and everything in between. While saying goodbye is never easy, the legacy of Bump ensures that its impact will endure long after the final episode fades to black.

So, mark your calendars for Boxing Day. It’s time to say farewell to a series that didn’t just tell a story—it became part of ours.

Dive Into Interior Chinatown – All Episodes Now Streaming on Disney+!

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The Disney+ Original series Interior Chinatown, starring Jimmy O. Yang, Ronny Chieng, and Chloe Bennet, is out now. Adapted from Charles Yu’s award-winning novel, the series premiered on 19 November, with all ten episodes available exclusively on the platform.

Interior Chinatown follows Willis Wu, played by Jimmy O. Yang, a background character living within the confines of a police procedural world called Black & White. Consigned to the backdrop, Willis spends his days waiting tables and performing as a “Generic Asian Man,” all while nursing aspirations of escaping his predetermined role and becoming the hero of his own story. However, when he inadvertently witnesses a crime, Willis finds himself entangled in a web of criminal intrigue in Chinatown. As he unravels the mystery, he also begins to explore his family’s hidden past, grappling with identity and belonging in a world that consistently casts him as the “background extra.”

This limited series is brought to life by an impressive creative team, with Taika Waititi serving as executive producer and director of the pilot. Charles Yu, the book’s author, also took the reins as series creator and showrunner, ensuring that his original story retains its distinct voice on screen. Alongside Yu and Waititi, the series boasts an impressive roster of executive producers, including Dan Lin and Lindsey Liberatore for Rideback, and Jeff Skoll, Miura Kite, and Elsie Choi for Participant, with production helmed by 20th Television.

The series also stars Lisa Gilroy, Sullivan Jones, Archie Kao, and Diana Lin, rounding out a diverse cast that brings both comedic timing and dramatic depth to this multi-layered story. Given Disney+’s robust parental controls, Interior Chinatown will be accessible to a wide audience, with adjustable access limits on mature content and PIN-protected profiles. Families can rest assured that Disney+ remains a safe and controlled viewing experience for all ages.

With Interior Chinatown, Disney+ continues to expand its repertoire of thought-provoking content, promising an engaging blend of humour, drama, and introspection on themes of identity and representation. This fresh take on the Asian American experience is set to resonate deeply with audiences, offering a new kind of storytelling that delves into the universal desire to be seen and heard.

Check out the trailer below:

Joker: Folie à Deux Movie Review: A Bold but Disjointed Sequel Caught Between Musical Fantasy and Gritty Drama

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Editorial credit: Joe Seer / Shutterstock.com

Joker: Folie à Deux takes a bold swing by blending psychological thriller with jukebox musical elements, directed once again by Todd Phillips. While the original Joker (2019) struck a powerful chord with audiences by delving into the unraveling mind of Arthur Fleck and the disintegration of societal norms, this sequel opts to add musical numbers and a love story that shifts the tone dramatically. While the idea of reimagining the Joker’s universe with a musical twist might sound fresh, it ultimately detracts from the gritty essence that made the first film so impactful, leaving Joker: Folie à Deux feeling disjointed and inconsistent.

The plot centres on Arthur Fleck’s struggle with his fractured identity, now facing a darker journey through Arkham State Hospital. Here, he meets Lee Quinzel (Lady Gaga), a character loosely based on Harley Quinn, adding a new romantic and psychological dimension to his arc. Joaquin Phoenix’s reprisal of the Joker showcases his dedication to the role, but it lacks the raw intensity of his original performance. In the 2019 film, Fleck was a man on the edge, which Phoenix brought to life with chilling intensity. However, his portrayal is overshadowed by a script that prioritises musical and courtroom drama over psychological depth. Lady Gaga delivers a strong performance as Quinzel, giving her character an air of vulnerability mingled with chaos. Yet, even her powerful presence is diluted by the film’s attempt to marry the thrill of a psychological drama with the flair of a musical.

The relationship between Joker and Quinzel is arguably the most compelling aspect of the movie, yet it’s vastly underutilised. The chemistry between Phoenix and Gaga is electric, capturing the complexity of a twisted, co-dependent love that borders on madness. Unfortunately, these moments are few and far between, bogged down by unnecessary musical interludes and a prolonged courtroom subplot. These elements give the film a fragmented feel, often detracting from the dark narrative audiences expect from the Joker’s world.

The musical numbers themselves are vibrant and well-executed, with the choreography and singing offering a temporary escape from the sluggish plot. But while these numbers are visually captivating, they feel misplaced within the Joker’s universe, adding little value to the storyline. The shift from psychological tension to musical fantasy feels jarring and makes the film’s narrative arc feel awkward and drawn out.

Clocking in at over two hours, Joker: Folie à Deux feels unnecessarily long, especially given the lack of a substantial plot. The courtroom scenes and rehashed themes from the original film create a sense of redundancy, making it feel like a spin-off rather than a continuation. For fans of Joker, this sequel may feel like a missed opportunity, as it fails to push Arthur’s character into new psychological territory or offer any real exploration of the world he inhabits. Instead, Joker: Folie à Deux is a film caught between two genres, unable to fully commit to either, leaving viewers with an unbalanced experience that’s both frustrating and oddly shallow.

In summary, Joker: Folie à Deux has highlights, especially in its performance and production quality. Still, the film feels like an unnecessary add-on that lacks the emotional and psychological punch of the original. For audiences looking for the intense character study that made Joker iconic, this sequel may leave a bitter taste, as it strays too far from the raw, gripping tone that initially defined Arthur Fleck’s descent into madness.

Rating: 2.5/5 Stars

“Life’s Good Film” Applauded, Recognized at International Film Festivals

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LG Electronics (LG) is proud to announce that the LG and Jackson Tisi co-produced Life’s Good Film took the prize for this month’s Best Documentary Short at the Indie Short Fest, one of eight recognitions at major film festivals around the world.

Life’s Good Film Honored by Film Festivals

Celebrating the unique perspectives and voices of a younger generation, LG’s uplifting film was also awarded as the Best Documentary Short by Dreamachine International Film Festival and honored by the Toronto Independent Film Festival of Cift. Life’s Good Film was nominated as a finalist in the short documentary category at the New York International Film Awards as well as second-finalist at the San Francisco Indie Short Festival. With the film festival industry just now getting back on its feet after a devastating 2020-2021, Life’s Good Film will be screened at the Arpa International Film Festival and the Oregon Documentary Film Festival as the award year comes to a close.

The Life’s Good Film is the touching, heart-felt culmination of the Life’s Good Film Project, which saw 531 amateur filmmakers from 33 countries share their creative interpretations of LG’s Life’s Good message. A part of LG’s 2021 Life’s Good campaign, the project put the spotlight on the diversity of the world’s peoples, cultures, and nature while simultaneously communicating the humanity and hope that unites us all.

Weaving together many of the stunning submissions sent in, director Jackson Tisi and LG collaborated to create a visually beautiful and emotionally uplifting 20-minute work of art. The award-winning short generated considerable interest online with over 240 million impressions and more than 77 million total views of related posts across social media.

“Being recognized by the respected international film festival community next to Jackson is something we never expected nor imagined,” said Lee Jung-suk, head of LG’s Global Marketing Center. “Jackson is a master and was incredibly effective in delivering the message Life’s Good through the voices of tomorrow’s leaders. LG thanks Jackson for his peerless direction and for helping us to shape such an inspiring story.”

The Life’s Good Film is available to view on the LG Global YouTube channel and Instagram.

About LG Electronics Inc.

LG Electronics is a global innovator in technology and consumer electronics with a presence in almost every country and an international workforce of more than 75,000. LG’s four companies – Home Appliance & Air Solution, Home Entertainment, Vehicle component Solutions and Business Solutions – combined for global sales of over USD 56 billion in 2020. LG is a leading manufacturer of consumer and commercial products ranging from TVs, home appliances, air solutions, monitors, service robots, automotive components and its premium LG SIGNATURE and intelligent LG ThinQ brands are familiar names world over. Visit www.LGnewsroom.com for the latest news.

About Jackson Tisi

At 25 years old, Jackson Tisi has made a name for himself as a young filmmaker. Jackson’s work spans music videos, commercials, and documentaries. His short films and music videos have won numerous awards including Vimeo Staff picks, Atlantic Selects, and multiple film festival nominations. His film, LEON, won him gold at the Young Directors Award in Cannes, France last year. He was also admitted into the latest class of Young Guns by the One Club for Creativity. He is currently working on developing longer form projects.

Source : LG Electronics

This article was sourced from a media release sent by PR Newswire

Disney and Pixar’s “Turning Red” Introduces Film’s Heartthrob Boy Band 4*Town

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According to “Turning Red” director Domee Shi, if you set a 13-year-old girl’s coming-of-age story in the early 2000s, it’s pretty much mandatory to include a boy band. “We needed our character Mei to be obsessed with something that her mom would not approve of,” said Shi. “Boy bands were the first step into the world of boys for a lot of girls that age. The guys were all super pretty, polished, soft and loving, and they had of way of bringing girls and their besties together. Plus, I thought it’d be really cool to create an animated boy band.”

Enter Pixar’s first-ever boy band, 4*Town. Filmmakers called on GRAMMY®-winning singer-songwriters Billie Eilish and FINNEAS to write the fictional band’s songs—three in total, including the song “Nobody Like U” featured in the new trailer. “When we first started talking about Billie Eilish and FINNEAS—back before they’d won a billion GRAMMYS—we could see then how they had their finger on the pulse,” said producer Lindsey Collins. “We were big fans. We met with them and pitched this crazy idea of a boy band, asking if they’d be interested in writing and producing the songs. They were!” 

Eilish, whose sophomore album, “Happier Than Ever,” debuted at No. 1 in the Billboard 200 in the U.S. and in 19 countries worldwide, made history as the youngest artist to win in all the major categories at the 62nd GRAMMY® Awards, receiving an award for best new artist, album of the year, record of the year, song of the year, and best pop vocal album.

FINNEAS, the youngest ever to win the GRAMMY® for producer of the year (non-classical), built a sterling discography penning and producing smashes for a cadre of superstars—not only for his sister, Billie Eilish, but also Justin Bieber,  Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, Camila Cabello, Tove Lo, Kid Cudi and Ben Platt, among others. His debut solo album “Optimist” is out now.

GRAMMY®-, Oscar®- and Emmy®-winning Swedish composer Ludwig Göransson (“Black Panther,” “The Mandalorian”) is composing the score for “Turning Red.” “I’ve been a fan of his for a while,” said Shi. “We were drawn to his versatility—he’s a composer, but he also produces pop music. We knew he would help us create a very unique sound.”

Joining previously announced Rosalie Chiang and Sandra Oh, who lend their voices to Mei and her mother Ming, are Orion Lee as the voice of Mei’s dad, Jin, and Wai Ching Ho as the voice of Grandma. Mei’s tightknit group of friends are voiced by Ava Morse as Miriam, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan as Priya, and Hyein Park as Abby. Tristan Allerick Chen voices classmate Tyler, and Addie Chandler lends his voice to Mei’s secret crush Devon. Providing the harmonious voices of the members of 4*Town are Jordan Fisher, Grayson Villanueva, Josh Levi, Topher Ngo and Finneas O’Connell. Rounding out the voice cast are James Hong, Lori Tan Chinn, Lillian Lim, Mia Tagano, Sherry Cola, Sasha Roiz and Lily Sanfelippo. 

ABOUT THE MOVIE

Disney and Pixar’s “Turning Red” introduces Mei Lee (voice of Rosalie Chiang), a confident, dorky 13-year-old torn between staying her mother’s dutiful daughter and the chaos of adolescence. Her protective, if not slightly overbearing mother, Ming (voice of Sandra Oh), is never far from her daughter—an unfortunate reality for the teenager. And as if changes to her interests, relationships and body weren’t enough, whenever she gets too excited (which is practically ALWAYS), she “poofs” into a giant red panda! Directed by Academy Award® winner Domee Shi (Pixar short “Bao”) and produced by Lindsey Collins “Turning Red” releases March 31, 2022.

You can view the new trailer below:

Meet The Rising Star Behind The Latest Issue Of FilmCentral Magazine: The Incredible Ruensito

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Growing up in between the favelas of Mexico City and Michoacán de Ocampo, this Latin artist got rhythm in his veins. Selena, Thalia, and other Latin pop stars helped him survive his surroundings and dream of stardom like his worldwide idols. Dancing in front of the mirror since he was 3 years old, a career in entertainment was the obvious choice for this loud kid.

Now living in Beirut, in the heart of the Middle East, this happy-go-lucky artist is creating a unique mix of hot Latin and chill Mediterranean vibes and building bridges between cultures by telling the stories of a global community united through his music.

As 2020 went down in history, it seemed the more the hardships, the more Ruensito was determined to be creative and push back the negativity. The year saw Ruensito’s dream become reality after the launch of his first song “Me Corono” which rose to the top quite fast and positioned in the Top #4 Latino chart on Anghami. The song also went around the world on Spotify accumulating more than 250 thousand reproductions around 85 countries. An amazing international audience that during the same year also welcomed his first book “Seven Moms” and that now is ready to receive all the love put on his latest song “Mi casa es tu casa.”

“With a laid-back vibe and acoustic sound, “Mi casa es su casa” it’s a reminder for us of what being home feels like” – Ruensito.

The song is a catchy Latin anthem characterized by traditional mariachi trumpets and mellow acoustic guitars. It’s an invitation for everyone to celebrate Mexican culture, its traditions, and its people, and it will transport you all the way to the warm streets of Ruensito’s busy town where you will shout ¡VIVA MEXICO!

What is this artist about? Love, friendship, and a good time wherever you may be on earth. If you want to know where that inspiration drives for life this versatile artist read between the lines on his blog “My Life Story” on www.ruensito.com.

FilmCentral magazine recently caught up with Ruensito to discuss his journey in the entertainment industry and here’s what went down:

How did you get started in the music industry?

It all started 10 years ago while I was still in school, I released my first single “Adorarte” accompanied by a music video that went viral on YouTube, at the dawn of the social media age.

But even though it did well I decided to take it down after not having the strength to deal with some bullying comments around it. I had wrongly focused more on the negative comments than the actual positive ones, and it literally put a stop to my dream of a music career. Instead, I focused on what I knew I was good at, which back then was studying. And it wasn’t till May 2020 during the lockdown that I decided to stop the little voices in my head and go for it with my first song “Me corono”. That’s when the real fun began.

How were you actually discovered?

Funny story, but I think that during the Corona lockdown last year while I was forced to fill my time between four walls, I started concentrating on singing again. I just couldn’t stop thinking about what I wanted to do with my life and my dreams of singing. So after some work, in collaboration with La Kate studio in Mataro Barcelona, we brought to life my first single “Me corono”.

This is when the magic happened. This song brought so much joy to my life. It travelled to more than 90 countries and rose to the top quite fast on Anghami, TV shows, radio, billboards and it put me in the spotlight not only in Mexico but in Lebanon too.

What do you like the most about being a singer?

I am a storyteller, and I believe that each song is a story to be shared. And I’m just in love with the whole process. From the excitement of having the initial idea of the song, to how it develops and then completed and recorded – It’s unbelievable! The excitement of recording in the studio… this excitement just increases especially if there is a video clip involved. The whole experience is like being high 24/7. You never get tired and you feel just like a kid having fun. The whole creative process gives me life, it’s really something that fulfills me in every way.

Can you tell us about your latest release?

Well If you haven’t been cheated on before, with this song you’ll know exactly how it feels like. CIEN X CIEN (100 x 100) is a Latin Urban / Romantic Ballad track that talks about love’s hurtful side. It’s about a guy who just got cheated on and goes through a rollercoaster of emotions. First the anger, and then to an “I don’t care” “ok it’s fine”, ending up asking for forgiveness to get his love back. It’s a whole journey not only in the lyrics but also in the melody. You go from the rock to the soft chill beats to a delightful melody that slows down the whole track and then takes you back to the ecstasy of our beating hearts.

What sort of person is going to love your music?

My music is for everyone who’s young and fun. But if I have to label it then I can tell you that I connect with anyone who loves life, lives life to the fullest, dreams big, and loves to dance and laugh. You know the saying the best things in life are free? That’s how it feels whenever you listen to my music. I think that my music can speak to anyone who has no judgment and no boundaries – they live their lives without giving a sh*t about what others are doing with their own. How do you call them? Free spirits? Yeah, free spirits.

What inspires you to be creative?

Having fun! Most of the time I feel more creative when I’m just having fun, laughing, and being free. Also traveling is another thing that helps my mind to get out of its cage. Reading, people… inspiration can come from anywhere. We just have to pay attention.

Is there anything special that you do to get into a creative mindset?

I don’t have any creative process I follow. Things just pop up in my head. But I like to feel; whichever emotion I’m feeling, I try to feel it to the max. By doing this, by never repressing my emotions, I learned how to completely let myself go and live in the moment. That is how I connect with everything around me, with my true self. It’s a double-edged sword, but it’s also the mark of a creative artist.

What message, if any, do you try to put into your work?

Positivity, love, and kindness. I know every person out there has their own struggles, even If we don’t get to see them. And I know from my own experience that behind every smile there is plenty of sad moments, hurt, and unhealed wounds, so I try to be a kind human being.

What has been the most memorable experience of your career so far?

So far, each moment of this career is coming with different surprises. Each song has brought different experiences that I try to live to the maximum. I’ve met new people, connected with fans, and discovered how much Latin music is really loved around the world. But most importantly, each song has taught me a lot… and for me, this is something memorable – constant learning and constant growth.

Do you ever find yourself unable to express your creativity to the fullest? What kinds of things inhibit you?

Yes, I’m no different than any person, insecurities are present all the time. But day by day I try to fight them and get more secure in my artistic decisions. I also try to surround myself with people that love me and that I trust. So in them, I also find the strength required sometimes to overcome fear.

Who is your greatest influence?

The love of my life. Being in a relationship with the most incredible person has been by far my greatest influence. It has taught me about the real meaning of love, partnership, comprehension, support and so many more values that mold me to be the human being I am now. And the best thing is, I still have plenty of time to learn from it.

Do you feel that you chose your passion or did it choose you?

I think it goes both ways. Singing has been a dream of mine since I can remember, it chose me a long time ago. But life circumstances were always getting in my way every time I tried to follow my dream and that kept me apart from it. But now, I’ve decided to choose it too. We finally merge and coincide in time. Because now I’ve come to realize that I have no other option but to do whatever it is that makes me happy.

If you hadn’t chosen your field, what would your alternate field have been?

I’m DRAMA personified. Acting absolutely!

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it

For now, I wanna keep exploring the arts. Keep writing and singing and at some point, I want to direct a music video. Who knows? Even do a movie adaptation of my book.

The ‘Lightning Fast’ round:

What do you consider beautiful and why? Sunset… it means that another day will come tomorrow.

What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? Acting. I used to do musical theater but I stopped and now I still dream of being in a movie or a series and hopefully one day I’m going to be able to do it.

Complete this sentence: if I had no fear I’d …” Be the best version of myself.

What is one flaw you wouldn’t change about yourself? Thinking with my heart. Being extremely emotional and exposing myself that much to emotions. I think a lot with my heart, and I let emotions control my actions. This can sometimes be such a stupid way to go for things, leaving the reasoning on the side can make you do big mistakes. But you know what? I love being that way, because that’s how I’m able to understand emotions the way I do.

The Verdict On Honest Thief: Is It Worth Watching??

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With so many big tent pole movies getting shoved off to be released god knows when or reduced to a measly direct to streaming service, my local theater could only offer re-showings of classic films or whatever slim pickings were left to put up. Usually, I know about movies years in advance due to my diligent research but lesser, small-sized films tend to slip through my radar and I end up not knowing much about them when they come out. This year, I barely knew anything about the majority of the movies being released; to the point, I didn’t even watch their trailers and decided to roll the dice and go in blind without knowing anything about the film. “Honest Thief” was my first experiment with that and thankfully, it proved to pay off in the end.

Tom Dolan (Liam Neeson) goes by the name “The In and Out bandit.” Over the course of several years, Tom has successfully stolen 9 million dollars from small-time banks and has never been caught or identified. But now he’s decided to turn himself into the FBI. He’s found love in Annie (Kate Walsh) and wishes to confess and be an honest man spending the rest of his free life with her once he’s released from prison. Unfortunately, things get complicated when he tries to turn himself over to two FBI agents (Jai Courtney and Anthony Ramos) and they end up double-crossing him and trying to kill him so they can keep the full 9 million for themselves. Now Tom is on the run with the FBI thinking he’s fleeing from FBI custody and has to prove his name before he and Annie end up locked up or worse.

Some people go into films with high expectations and some go in with very low expectations, and then you get the people who have zero expectations and just plan to walk in and see what happens without even knowing what the movie is about. Normally that latter strategy is one I avoid as I feel it’s important to know what I’m putting my money into before committing to it. “Honest Thief” feels like another run of the mill Neeson lead action flick where he runs around being a middle-aged badass; proving to be a modern Stallone/Schwarzenegger style star when most of those guys were pulling back when they were Neeson’s age. In some ways, this film is pretty predictable for Neeson’s standard fare, but with slim to zero expectations, I found myself really enjoying this film even though there wasn’t anything truly special here.

Similar to how Disney’s “The Mandalorian” approaches storytelling, they take a very simple bare-bones concept and make it work with its stellar characters, writing, and action sequences. “Honest Thief” is by no means on “Mandalorian’s” level but the same principle stands: sometimes simple works and that can make for an entertaining film without being overly complicated. Once Neeson goes to turn himself in, everything goes up in the air and the film launches into a tense, continuously amped up thriller that manages to remain low key but still gripping and surprising. Nothing is grand or outrageously wild but the gravitas and emotional weight of Neeson’s story and performance carry the heart and weight of the film effortlessly.

It was a cat and mouse game juggling different lives and characters; constantly keeping you guessing when the other shoe will drop and how it will play out. The chemistry with the FBI agents felt natural, chaotic, and understandable; they played off each other and Neeson well. Though some characters (and most of the people who’ve seen the film) trivialize the aspect of someone turning their lives around for love, I found this to be a very sweet and simple, honest, and effective motivator for the events that played out. I’m genuinely pleased to see people still acknowledging that love is not a cliché but a meaningful component of our lives and stories. Kate Walsh was adorable and I loved her onscreen, my biggest problem comes from her romance with Neeson felt rushed and I don’t feel she or Robert Patrick got enough respectable screen time.

Overall, “Honest Thief” was a pleasant surprise I was happy to be blindsided by. A lot of how it plays out is by the numbers and certain areas get rushed where they should have taken their time, but the quality of the tension, action, and pace kept the movie from being anything but boring. Neeson kills it as always; never delivers a bad performance, Courtney makes a great villain and the simple but sweet story works just enough to make this an enjoyable experience despite the bumps along the way.

I give “Honest Thief” 2 ½ stars out of 4.