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Movie Review: Love and time collide in Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield’s ‘We Live In Time’

In “We Live In Time,” directed by John Crowley, audiences are invited to witness the poignant romance between Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield as they navigate the complexities of love and life in their 30s. This beautifully crafted film immerses viewers in the highs and lows of a relationship that forces us to confront the relentless passage of time.

As we reach our thirties, the idea of time becomes increasingly significant, and for many, it triggers deep reflection on life’s fleeting nature. Crowley captures this sentiment masterfully, reminding us that the pressures of career, family, and aging loved ones compound the urgency of our ticking biological clocks. The emotional stakes escalate dramatically when a cancer diagnosis enters the mix, amplifying the sense of urgency that permeates the film.

Tobias (Garfield) and Almut (Pugh) are constantly reminded of this passage of time through the film’s use of clocks and stopwatches, which serve as both literal and metaphorical devices. The storytelling weaves through time like a scattered memory, piecing together their intertwined lives in a whimsical, mystical, and darkly comedic fashion. Their initial meeting is striking: Almut accidentally collides with Tobias while driving, and their first conversation unfolds in the stark fluorescent lights of a hospital. Despite his injuries, Tobias is captivated by Almut’s beauty, seemingly unfazed by the circumstances.

This “meet-cute” is a unique take on a classic trope, as it humorously subverts expectations. Prior to their encounter, Tobias finds himself in a hotel, struggling to sign divorce papers. In a fit of desperation, he dashes out in a bathrobe to buy pens, only to drop something in the street, leading to the serendipitous birth of a new relationship. This moment encapsulates the vulnerability inherent in falling in love.

The film continues to explore moments of chaos and emotional turmoil, particularly concerning a baby that is not yet ready to enter the world. Without giving too much away, one birthing scene stands out as both hilarious and heart-wrenching, capturing unexpected tears amidst the laughter.

While many might expect “We Live In Time” to evoke an emotional wreckage, my experience was different. The film does not rely on tear-jerking moments to measure its impact. Crowley previously delivered a stunning film with “Brooklyn,” which raises the question of why this outing didn’t elicit the same emotional response.

Nick Payne’s script leaves room for improvement, particularly regarding the development of Almut’s character. At just 34, she is already a Michelin-starred chef with an impressive athletic background. Yet, when Tobias broaches the topic of children early in their relationship, her reaction feels forced. Rather than engaging in a mature conversation, she becomes defensive, which seems inconsistent with her established character. This miscommunication could spark lively discussions among viewers post-screening.

The couple’s eventual child serves as a narrative prop, lacking personality and depth. The child’s presence does little more than symbolize what Almut stands to lose if she does not overcome her cancer battle.

Despite these narrative hiccups, the true draw of “We Live In Time” lies in the subtle yet powerful performances from Pugh and Garfield. Garfield fits perfectly into the mold of the “nice guy,” reminiscent of Adam Brody’s charming portrayals. Their chemistry is palpable, bringing charm and authenticity to the film, making it a worthwhile watch.

“We Live in Time,” an A24 release, premieres in New York and Los Angeles on Friday, with a nationwide release on October 18. Rated R for “language, sexuality, and nudity,” the film runs for 107 minutes and earns three stars out of four.

Iniutos ni Pangulong Marcos ang agarang paglikas ng mga Pilipino sa Middle East

‘Evacuate our people by whatever means’

MAYNILA. Dahil sa tumitinding krisis sa Middle East, iniutos ni Pangulong Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. sa mga kaugnay na ahensya ng gobyerno na ihanda ang lahat ng “assets” ng Pilipinas upang ilikas ang mga Pilipino na maaaring maipit sa kaguluhan, sa kahit anong paraan—sa himpapawid man o sa dagat.

Ang agarang utos na ito ay inihayag sa isang online meeting kasama ang mga kasapi ng Gabinete noong Miyerkules, ayon sa Presidential Communications Office. Dumalo sa pulong ang mga pangunahing opisyal, kabilang sina Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, at National Security Adviser Eduardo Año.

”We are now going to evacuate our people by whatever means – by air, or by sea,” bilin ni Marcos sa kanyang mga opisyal ng Gabinete, na nagbigay-diin sa pangangailangan ng masusing pagsubaybay sa sitwasyon sa Middle East. Dagdag pa niya, “Just make all the preparations so that all our assets are nearby. Kung may barko tayong kukunin, nandiyan na malapit na sa Beirut, at sa sandaling ang Embahada ay magbigay ng clearance at sabihing maaari nang umalis ang ating mga tao, mailabas na kaagad natin sila upang hindi sila naghihintay ng matagal sa mga delikadong lugar.”

Kumpirmado ni Secretary Teodoro na handa na ang Pilipinas na ilikas ang mga apektadong mamamayan ngunit kasalukuyan pa ring naghihintay ng mga exit clearance mula sa Lebanon. “We’re ready, willing and able [to repatriate Filipinos] at any time. We’re just waiting for the diplomatic clearances of the expatriates to be processed out of Beirut,” sabi niya.

Sinabi ni Philippine Ambassador to Lebanon Raymond Balatbat kay Marcos na isinasagawa ang lahat ng paraan upang mapabilis ang pagkuha ng mga exit clearance na kinakailangan para sa proseso ng repatriation.

Sa isang talumpati sa meet and greet kasama ang Filipino community sa Laos, kung saan siya ay dumadalo sa ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, tinalakay ni Marcos ang mga patuloy na pag-uusap kasama ang mga kaugnay na opisyal tungkol sa repatriation ng mga Pilipinong naapektuhan ng sigalot sa pagitan ng Israel at Lebanon. “Kaya’t ngayon lang—kanina nga ay pinag-uusapan namin kung paano namin maibabalik ang ating mga kababayan na nandoon sa Lebanon, ‘yung iba ay nasa Israel. Nagigitna—nandoon sila sa lugar na medyo delikado dahil talagang nagkaka-giyera na doon,” ani Marcos.

Tiniyak din ni Marcos na ang kaligtasan ng mga Pilipino sa rehiyon ay nananatiling pangunahing prayoridad ng pamahalaan. Kamakailan, pinayuhan ang mga Pilipino sa Israel na iwasan ang ilang lugar sa Gitnang Silangan dahil sa tumitinding hidwaan. Nagbomba ang Israel laban sa mga target ng Hezbollah sa Lebanon at sa Gaza Strip bilang tugon sa mga rocket na tumama sa Haifa, sa hilagang Israel, nitong nakaraang weekend.

Nearly 2,000 Turks evacuate Lebanon by ship as tensions with Israel intesify

BEIRUT. Close to 2,000 Turkish citizens and their families are set to evacuate Lebanon on Wednesday, boarding two Turkish navy landing ships, driven by escalating safety concerns as Israel intensifies its military operations against Hezbollah militants in the region.

Fearing for their security, the evacuees gathered at the Beirut port, where the ships—dispatched from Turkey on Tuesday—awaited their departure. Many cited the deteriorating conditions in Lebanon, both in terms of safety and economic stability, as reasons for their decision to flee.

“We cannot take this situation anymore. No one knows where this country is taking us. The siege is becoming bigger,” said Issa Malak, a dual citizen of Lebanon and Turkey. He added, “There is no bread here. There is no future in Lebanon.”

Before the evacuees could board, the ships unloaded humanitarian aid, including 300 tons of essential supplies. Turkish Ambassador Ali Baris Ulusoy confirmed to the Anadolu news agency that the cargo contained “beds, tents, blankets, food parcels, kitchenware, and hygiene kits.” The aid was a much-needed resource for many struggling families in Lebanon.

Amidst rising security concerns, evacuees spoke about the dangers they faced in their homes. “We’re leaving because the rockets and shells started dropping on us,” said Tarek Issa, one of the evacuees. Another evacuee, Mariam Darwish, explained that she was leaving with her 80-year-old Turkish father, noting that “the situation is becoming scary, and our neighborhood became unsafe. This is much safer for us and our children, our grandchildren, and our health.”

The Turkish ships are expected to reach Mersin, a city on Turkey’s eastern Mediterranean coast, after a 12-hour voyage. A source from the Turkish Foreign Ministry said that, in addition to the Turkish evacuees, a small number of their foreign relatives would also be on board. The source added that should the demand for evacuation increase, Turkey would charter flights to facilitate further evacuations from Lebanon.

This mass departure follows Turkey’s collaboration with around 20 other nations to prepare for the possible evacuation of foreign nationals via Turkey. Just last week, hundreds of evacuees of various nationalities arrived in Turkey from Lebanon on a commercial ferry.

As the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah intensifies, many fear for the region’s safety, prompting international evacuation efforts. Turkey continues to provide humanitarian support and a safe passage for those seeking refuge.

Severe solar storm poses risk to power grids as the U.S. contends with the aftermath of consecutive major hurricanes

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. As the U.S. grapples with the aftermath of back-to-back hurricanes, experts are raising concerns over a severe solar storm that could place additional stress on already vulnerable power grids. Scientists from NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center are closely monitoring the situation, particularly in regions heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene two weeks ago.

Although affected by the recent hurricanes, Florida is unlikely to experience power disruptions from the solar storm unless its intensity significantly increases. Rob Steenburgh, a scientist from NOAA, provided reassurance, saying, “That adds a little bit more to the comfort level. Why we’re here is to let them know so that they can prepare.”

However, Shawn Dahl, a space weather forecaster with NOAA, emphasized that areas hit hard by Hurricane Helene are at greater risk. These regions, already dealing with weakened infrastructure, could face additional power outages if the solar storm intensifies.

In addition to potential power grid issues, the solar storm may also bring an unexpected visual spectacle: the northern lights. NOAA forecasts that the auroras could be visible as far south as the lower Midwest and Northern California, though exact locations and timings remain uncertain. Skygazers are advised to have their smartphones ready, as these devices are often able to capture the phenomenon more effectively than the human eye.

The solar activity comes as the sun nears the peak of its current 11-year cycle, a period that has already produced striking auroras across the Northern Hemisphere. Fortunately, no major disruptions were reported during May’s solar storm, giving experts hope that this current event may pass with minimal damage.

As the country continues its hurricane recovery efforts, NOAA remains vigilant, providing updates to help mitigate further strain on critical infrastructure.

Estudyanteng delivery rider patay sa pamamaril; motorsiklo ninakaw

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MAYNILA. Pinagbabaril sa Barangay Sumilang, Pasig City nitong madaling araw ng Lunes ang 22-anyos na college student at part-time delivery rider na si Allan Vincent Eugenio, at tinangay ng mga salarin ang kanyang motorsiklo.

Ayon sa ulat, pauwi na si Eugenio mula sa trabaho nang tambangan ng dalawang suspek. Natagpuan ng ina ng biktima ang kanyang anak na nakahandusay sa kalsada, at agad itong isinugod sa ospital, ngunit hindi na umabot nang buhay.

Ayon sa pulisya, hinabol ng mga suspek ang motorsiklo ng biktima. “Bakit kinuha niyo pa ang buhay ng anak ko? Sana kinuha niyo na lang ang motor,” pahayag ng ina ni Eugenio.

Naaresto ng Pasig City Police ang dalawang suspek na may edad 19 at 20 sa loob ng wala pang 24 oras matapos ang insidente. Ayon kay Pasig City Police Chief PCol. Hendrix Mangaldan, sinampahan na ng kasong carnapping at iba pang mga kaso ang mga suspek.

Patuloy ang imbestigasyon sa insidente upang matiyak ang hustisya para kay Eugenio at sa kanyang pamilya.

Biden and Netanyahu discuss response to Iran missile strike

JERUSALEM/BEIRUT. U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a crucial discussion on Wednesday regarding potential Israeli retaliation following Iran’s missile strike last week. The call took place as Lebanon’s Hezbollah fighters reported pushing back Israeli forces along the tense border, further escalating regional tensions.

The ongoing ground clashes along Lebanon’s southern mountainous frontier have coincided with the Gaza war, keeping the Middle East on high alert. The region is bracing for Israel’s next move after the missile strike by Tehran, which Iran claims was in response to Israel’s military operations aimed at weakening Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group.

The phone conversation between Biden and Netanyahu, which lasted for about 30 minutes, was described as “direct and very productive” by White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. She acknowledged the differences between the two leaders but emphasized their openness in addressing disagreements. “They have disagreements, but they discuss them candidly,” Jean-Pierre said during a press briefing.

Netanyahu’s office confirmed the call but did not disclose specifics. However, Israel’s Ambassador to the U.N., Danny Danon, noted that it was “a positive call, and we appreciate the support of the U.S.” The White House later reported that Biden encouraged Netanyahu to minimize civilian harm in Lebanon, underscoring the U.S. stance on reducing the impact on innocent lives amid military operations.

Biden also reiterated his condemnation of Iran’s missile attack on Israel and reaffirmed Israel’s right to defend itself, particularly against Hezbollah’s advances. However, he urged for renewed diplomacy in handling the conflict in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of avoiding a wider regional war.

Relations between Biden and Netanyahu have been strained recently, particularly regarding Israel’s handling of the situation in Gaza and Lebanon. The U.S. has made efforts to prevent a further escalation of hostilities and has attempted, without success, to broker a ceasefire in the Gaza war, which has raged for over a year between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group, Hamas.

Israel’s vow to make Iran “pay” for the missile attack has heightened concerns of a broader conflict in the oil-rich region. While the missile strike caused limited damage, Tehran has warned that any Israeli retaliation would lead to “vast destruction,” fueling fears of a wider war that could potentially draw in the United States.

Biden, in his previous comments, discouraged Israel from striking Iranian oil fields and made it clear that he would not support any action targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant was initially scheduled to meet his U.S. counterpart in Washington on Wednesday to strengthen coordination regarding Iran, but he canceled the visit after Netanyahu reportedly set preconditions, including the phone call with Biden.

Analysts suggest that Israel’s likely response to Iran’s October 1 missile strike would involve targeting Iranian military installations, particularly those linked to the production of ballistic missiles. Israeli media also reported that Gallant confirmed plans for a lethal strike against Iran, saying in a video on Wednesday, “Our attack will be deadly, precise, and above all, surprising.”

As both sides continue to weigh their options, the world watches closely, hoping for a de-escalation in a region already on the brink of further violence.

‘Piece by Piece’: A surreal lego documentary on Pharrell Williams that snaps together brilliantly

In an unconventional yet fitting tribute to the eclectic musician and producer Pharrell Williams, the documentary Piece by Piece brings his life story to the screen entirely through Lego pieces. Directed by Morgan Neville, known for his experimental work in Won’t You Be My Neighbor? and Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain, this biopic delivers a vibrant, quirky, and surreal portrayal of one of music’s most inventive minds.

The film, which feels part documentary and part animated fantasy, uses tiny plastic Lego bricks to depict Williams’ journey from a young boy in Virginia Beach to a global music sensation and creative director at Louis Vuitton. It’s a film that feels simultaneously high-concept and playful, perfectly reflecting Williams’ unique persona.

Neville uses real interviews, though in an unexpected twist, the speakers are represented by animated Lego figures. The film opens with a philosophical musing from Williams, who says, “What if nothing is real? What if life is like a Lego set?” While this idea may feel tenuous, the creativity it unleashes in the visuals is undeniable.

Williams, known for his synesthesia—a condition where music triggers vibrant colors in his mind—is shown as a musical visionary whose forward-thinking style has helped shape pop culture. His rise to fame, from co-producing Rump Shaker with The Neptunes to working with artists like Justin Timberlake, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, and Gwen Stefani, is captured through witty Lego representations of these stars. The film even delivers comical depictions of No Doubt’s Adrian Young sporting his signature mohawk in Lego form.

Aside from his musical career, Piece by Piece delves into Williams’ personal life, briefly touching on his wife, Helen, and his hesitations about being a solo artist. The documentary shines in its portrayal of Williams’ futuristic approach to both music and fashion, with Pharrell himself declaring, “What I am is a maverick,” a sentiment no one would dare to challenge.

Visually, Piece by Piece is a feast. The film’s standout moments include Lego bricks forming waves, musical beats depicted as bouncing illuminated blocks, and an awe-inspiring scene where Williams, in a dream sequence, gazes at the Earth’s lights from outer space. Special praise is due to the animators for their brilliant creation of Lego champagne bubbles and water that seem to defy the limitations of the medium.

Despite its dazzling artistry, the documentary falters in its pacing. The early parts of Williams’ career are detailed with care, but the film rushes through his later successes. Certain key moments, such as the breakup of The Neptunes, feel glossed over. Still, the documentary compensates with its humor, especially in recreating iconic music videos and featuring Black Lives Matter protests in Lego form.

By the end, the filmmakers struggle to find a proper conclusion, with the film closing on the phrase, “I think we’re done,” as if surrendering to the complexity of their subject. But despite this, Piece by Piece remains a trippy, sweet tribute to a creative genius, all encapsulated in building blocks.

Piece by Piece, a Focus Features release, hits theaters on October 11. It’s rated PG for language, some suggestive material, and thematic elements, with a running time of 93 minutes. Three stars out of four.

Pinoy binitay sa Saudi Arabia dahil sa pagpatay, kinumpirma ng DFA

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MAYNILA. Isang Pilipino ang binitay sa Saudi Arabia matapos mapatunayang guilty sa kasong pagpatay sa isang Saudi national, ayon sa Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

“Ikinalulungkot namin na kumpirmahin ang balita na ang isang Pilipino ay pinatay sa Saudi Arabia para sa kasong pagpatay,” pahayag ng DFA.

Ayon sa ahensya, ang gobyerno ng Pilipinas ay nagbigay ng legal na tulong sa akusado at inubos ang lahat ng posibleng remedyo, kabilang ang pagsusumite ng presidential letter of appeal. Gayunpaman, tumanggi ang pamilya ng biktima na tumanggap ng blood money kapalit ng kapatawaran para sa nasabing Pilipino.

Ayon kay Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Eduardo de Vega, umamin ng kasalanan ang Pilipino, na hindi pinangalanan sa kahilingan ng kanyang pamilya, sa pagpatay sa kanyang Saudi business partner noong 2020. Hinatulan siya ng kamatayan noong 2022.

“Ito ay hindi isang relasyon ng empleyado at employer. May business venture sila,” ayon kay De Vega.

Sinubukan ng gobyerno ng Pilipinas na mag-alok ng blood money sa pamilya ng biktima, ngunit tinanggihan nila ito.

Sinabi rin ni De Vega na si Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ay personal na sumulat ng liham sa gobyerno ng Saudi Arabia noong Mayo noong nakaraang taon, upang umapela para sa buhay ng Pilipino. Bagamat naipagpaliban ang pagbitay noong panahong iyon, itinuloy ito nitong Oktubre.

“Wala pang opisyal na kumpirmasyon mula sa mga awtoridad ng Saudi ngunit oo, ang aming Embahada sa Riyadh ay nag-ulat na ipinatupad na ang pagbitay,” dagdag ni De Vega.

Ang mga labi ng Pilipino ay kasalukuyang nakahimlay na sa Saudi Arabia.

Thousands witness Singapore’s final horse race after 181 years

SINGAPORE. Horse racing in Singapore, a tradition that spanned more than 180 years, has come to a historic close. On Saturday, October 5, 2024, a crowd of over 10,000 gathered at the Singapore Turf Club to witness the final race, marking the end of an era for the city-state’s only racecourse.

The Singapore Turf Club, located in Kranji, will return its 120-hectare site to the government by 2027 for redevelopment as Singapore seeks to meet growing housing, leisure, and recreational needs.

Spectators at the final race included a mix of die-hard racing enthusiasts and nostalgic visitors. Among them was 75-year-old retiree Lawrence Phua, who recalled his youth selling horse racing guidebooks at the club’s former location in Bukit Timah. “I know nothing about gambling, but I am a bit emotional and quite sad that horse racing is no more after more than a hundred years,” Phua shared, visiting the Kranji location for the first time.

The Kranji Turf Club, opened in 1999 after a S$500 million (US$383 million) investment, had hosted horse races for the past 25 years. Its history, however, stretches back to Singapore’s colonial past. The first horse race was held in 1843 to celebrate the 24th anniversary of Singapore’s establishment under British colonial rule. The Turf Club also had the honor of hosting Queen Elizabeth II in 1972, attracting 26,000 spectators.

Over the years, the sport’s popularity has declined. While race days averaged an attendance of 11,000 in 2010, numbers had dropped to just 2,600 after the COVID-19 pandemic. The five-story grandstand, built to hold 30,000 spectators, saw dwindling crowds despite horse racing being one of Singapore’s oldest sports.

In comparison, neighboring Hong Kong continues to enjoy a vibrant horse racing scene. On the first day of the 2024 racing season, more than 40,000 punters wagered HK$1.31 billion (US$168 million), highlighting the stark contrast between the two regions.

As Singapore bids farewell to horse racing, the land once dedicated to the sport will soon make way for new developments, reflecting the city-state’s evolving priorities and space constraints.

Mass cremation held for 23 victims of tragic school bus fire in Thailand

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LAN SAK, Thailand. A heart-wrenching cremation ceremony took place in the small town of Lan Sak, central Thailand, on Tuesday, as mourners gathered to bid farewell to 23 young students and teachers who lost their lives in a devastating school bus fire. The tragedy occurred on October 1 during a school field trip, leaving the entire nation in shock and mourning.

The ceremony, held near a local temple, saw the construction of several cremation furnaces adorned with flowers, honoring the victims who attended the school located within the temple compound. Monks led prayers while family members and friends wept for their loved ones.

The bus, carrying 6 teachers and 39 elementary and junior high school students, caught fire on a highway in Pathum Thani, a northern suburb of Bangkok. The fire spread rapidly, allowing only 22 people to escape. After forensic experts in Bangkok completed the identification of the charred bodies, the remains of the victims were returned to their hometown for funeral rites that began last week.

The incident has ignited national outrage over lax safety standards and prompted swift legal action. The bus driver was arrested for reckless driving, while the bus’s registered owner was charged with negligence leading to death. Transport officials came under scrutiny after it was revealed that the bus, more than 50 years old, had passed an inspection just four months before the fire. Investigators later found that the bus was equipped with 11 natural gas canisters, despite only being permitted to have six.

Authorities believe a gas tube from one of the canisters came loose, causing a leak ignited by sparks. The bus had been modified to run on compressed natural gas (CNG), a common practice for commercial vehicles aiming to reduce costs. In response to the accident, officials ordered the inspection of over 13,000 CNG-powered buses within 60 days, and the Ministry of Education temporarily suspended all school study trips.

The cremation in Uthai Thani province was sponsored by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, who sent General Surayud Chulanont, the head of his Privy Council and a former prime minister, to represent him.

This tragedy has left a profound impact on Thailand, raising concerns about safety regulations and the conditions of vehicles used for transporting children on school trips. The community, still grappling with the loss, prays for justice and changes that will prevent future accidents of this kind.