Latest news with #Substance
Express Tribune
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Why horror is slaying box office
The Substance grossed over USD77 million globally, with 80 per cent from outside US. Photos: File Vampires, zombies and the Grim Reaper are killing it at the box office. At a time when superheroes, sequels and reboots have grown stale among audiences, horror has emerged as an unlikely saviour, entertainment industry veterans say. This year, scary films account for 17 per cent of the North American ticket purchases, up from 11 per cent in 2024 and 4 per cent a decade ago, according to Comscore data compiled exclusively for Reuters. Thanks to the box office performance of Sinners and Final Destination: Bloodlines, and new installments of popular horror films hitting later this year, including The Conjuring: Last Rites and Five Nights at Freddy's 2, cinema owners have reason to celebrate. "We have identified horror as really one of the primary film genres that we are targeting to grow," said Brandt Gully, owner of the Springs Cinema & Taphouse in Sandy Springs, Georgia. "It can really fill a void when you need it." Producers, studio executives and theatre owners say horror has historically provided a safe outlet to cope with contemporary anxieties. And there is no lack of material to choose from: the aftershocks of a global pandemic, artificial intelligence paranoia, the loss of control over one's body, and resurgent racism. "It's cathartic, it's emotional, and it comes with an ending," said film data analyst Stephen Follows, author of the Horror Movie Report, which offers detailed insights into the genre. "Horror movies give space to process things that are harder to face in everyday life." The often low-budget productions allow for greater risk-taking than would be possible with high-cost, high-stakes productions like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. The creative freedom has attracted such acclaimed directors as Ryan Coogler, Jordan Peele, Danny Boyle and Guillermo del Toro. "Horror movies are an accountant's dream," said Paul Dergarabedian, Comscore senior media analyst. "If you're going to make a science-fiction outer-space extravaganza, you can't do that on the cheap. With horror films, a modest-budget movie like Weapons can be scary as hell." Audiences are responding. Coogler's Sinners, an original story about Mississippi vampires starring Michael B Jordan, was the year's third highest-grossing film in the US and Canada, according to Comscore. Movie theatres are still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic which broke the movie-going habit, and increased viewing in the home. Mike De Luca, co-chair and Warner Bros Motion Picture Group, which released Sinners, said horror was a genre that manages to get people out of the house. "It's a rising tide that lifts all boats," he said. "You know, we're trying to get people back in the habit of going to the theatres." Fear knows no geographical bounds. Half of all horror movies released by major US distributors last year made 50 per cent or more of their worldwide box office gross outside the US, according to London-based researcher Ampere Analysis. The breakout international hit The Substance, for example, grossed over USD77 million worldwide – with around 80 per cent of that from outside the US. Streamers also are similarly capitalising on the appeal of the genre. AMC's post-apocalyptic horror drama series The Walking Dead, became one of the most popular series when it was added to Netflix in 2023, amassing 1.3 billion hours viewed, according to Netflix's Engagement Report. Director Guillermo del Toro's film adaptation of Mary Shelley's gothic novel, Frankenstein, is set to debut in November. Date night Horror films are ideally suited to watching in movie theatres, where the environment heightens the experience. "What you can't do at home is sit in a dark room with a hundred other people, not on your phone, and jump," said Blumhouse CEO Jason Blum, producer of Halloween, Paranormal Activity and other lucrative horror franchises. "You can't really be scared when you watch a horror movie at home." Big-budget movies that the industry refers to as "tent poles," such as Captain America: Brave New World or A Minecraft Movie, remain the lifeblood of movie theatres. Over time, these blockbusters have elbowed out more moderately budgeted romantic comedies and dramas on movie screens. Against this backdrop, horror has been quietly gaining momentum. The genre broke the USD1 billion box office barrier in the US and Canada for the first time in 2017, Comscore reported, buoyed by the film adaptation of Stephen King's novel, It, and Jordan Peele's exploration of racial inequality in Get Out. Announcements of new horror films from US producers have risen each year for the last three years, including in 2023, when the Hollywood strikes significantly impacted production, according to Ampere Analysis. The number of US horror films that went into production last year was up 21 per cent over 2023, Ampere found. "While more arthouse fare and even some tentpole superhero franchises have had mixed fortunes at the global box office in the wake of the pandemic, horror remains one of the key genres that audiences still make a point of seeing in the theatres," wrote researcher Alice Thorpe in a report for Ampere's clients which she shared with Reuters. The researcher's own consumer surveys revealed horror is the favorite genre among two-thirds of film-goers, ages 18 to 24. "Anytime a teenager graduates to wanting to take a date to the movies, horror gets popular really fast," said Warner Bros' De Luca. "It's a great film-going experience to take a date to because you get to huddle with each other and gasp and hoop and holler." Freak show Horror has been a cinematic staple from its earliest days, when Thomas Edison filmed Frankenstein on his motion picture camera, the Kinetograph, in 1910. The British Board of Film Classification introduced the "H" rating in 1932, officially designating the genre. But it didn't always get Hollywood's respect. "In the first half of the 20th century, it was seen as a freak-show," said Follows. Perceptions began to change with the critical and commercial success of films like Psycho, The Exorcist and The Shining. Director Steven Spielberg ushered in the summer blockbuster in 1975 with Jaws, a re-invention of the classic monster film. In recent years, horror films have become part of the Oscar conversation. Peele collected an Academy Award for best original screenplay in 2018 for Get Out. Demi Moore received her first Oscar nomination earlier this year for her portrayal of an ageing Hollywood star who will go to any lengths to stay beautiful in The Substance. Not every horror film connects with audiences. M3GAN 2.0, a sequel to the 2022 low-budget film about a killer robotic doll that grossed USD180 million worldwide, brought in a modest USD10.2 million in the US and Canada in its opening weekend, according to Comscore.
Hype Malaysia
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
From Wagyu By La Moon To Imperial Lexus: New Dining Promos & Eateries To Check Out In KL!
If you're a foodie and always on a lookout for something new, this week brings a fresh lineup of exciting new dining spots and new promos from some of KL's best restaurants and bars! Whether you're planning a romantic date night, a casual catch-up with friends, or a solo foodie adventure, these new eateries and menus are worth adding to checking out. This week, we're bringing you picks from some of KL's best hotels and a new dining spot featuring a familiar face from across the causeway! Here are some the best new dining spots and promos to explore in KL this month: Wagyu by La Moon Wagyu is almost always the best pick of meat whenever you're ordering a steak. And recently, it's a growing market in Malaysia, but none can do it better than Zenrich Wagyu. Have a halal-certified meaty meal until 1am with Wagyu by La Moon, which offers a taste of Malaysia's unique blend of global flavours and warm hospitality. From Japanese farms to the bustling streets of TTDI, Zenrich Wagyu is crafting a delicious, bold story — and inviting everyone to take part. For more information on Wagyu by La Moon, head to their social media and for more information on Zenrich Wagyu, hear to their official website. Roselle Coffee House @ Imperial Lexis KL The SeaSational Weekend Dinner Buffet at Roselle Coffee House, located on Level 8 of Imperial Lexis Kuala Lumpur, is making waves with over 100 dishes on the menu. Held every Friday and Saturday from 6pm to 10pm, this buffet promises a lavish seafood spread featuring fresh lobsters, oysters, slipper lobsters, snow crabs, tiger prawns, mussels, sashimi, sushi and soft-shell crab tempura. Beyond seafood, the buffet also offers a wide range of international and local favourites. Guests can enjoy roasted meats, satay, Penang Rojak, Indian dishes like Butter Chicken and Roti Prata, and a variety of Western options. For dessert, expect a sweet finish with treats like crème brûlée, Sago Gula Melaka, Nyonya kuih and a flowing chocolate fountain. The buffet is priced at RM190 for adults and RM120 for seniors and kids aged 6 to 12. For bookings, WhatsApp +6010 784 0176 or email eat@ Substance @ Courtyard by Marriott Kuala Lumpur South This July, indulge in the Lok-Lok buffet at Substance, Courtyard by Marriott Kuala Lumpur South. The 'Lok Into July' buffet features over 20 varieties of skewers, 2 flavourful soup bases including Substance's homemade signature broth, and 5 tantalising house-made sauces to excite every palate. Pair it with a sumptuous buffet spread of seafood on ice during dinner, fresh sushi and sashimi, and a variety of local favourites. The Lok-Lok buffet runs from 1st to 30th July 2025. Opening Hours & Prices: Lunch (Saturday & Sunday, 12.30pm – 3pm) – Adult: RM138, Senior Citizen: RM98, Child: RM69 – Adult: RM138, Senior Citizen: RM98, Child: RM69 Dinner (Wednesday to Sunday, 6.30pm – 10.30pm) – Adult: RM158, Senior Citizen: RM108, Child: RM79 For more information and reservations, please WhatsApp +603 8682 8898 Jameson Irish Coffee Workshop at B.E.D, The Exchange, TRX As a sneak preview of the upcoming Jameson Coffee rave happening on 12th July 2025, Jameson invites you to a special Irish Coffee workshop at B.E.D (formerly Lane 23), The Exchange, TRX. Led by brand ambassador Cliona O'Donnell, the intimate session featured a hands-on experience in crafting a simple Irish Coffee featuring Jameson's iconic whiskey. Drinks were served and sweet treats indulged, come check out Jameson's upcoming events, where you can get your taste of savoury Irish coffee as well as crafted coffee cocktails. Happening on 6th July 2024 (Sunday), at the B.E.D, TRX for Cherry Bomb's 2nd anniversary and 12th July 2025 (Saturday) at UP KL, Jalan Doraisamy. Watch Hype's Exclusive Reel here: BONUS: Cream-O New Strawberry Flavour Malaysia's snacking scene just got a delicious upgrade! Cream-O, your favourite choco expert and mood booster, is turning up the fun with its latest creation, the all-new Cream-O Strawberry. Perfect for everyday treats, on-the-go munching, or spreading joy with those around you, Cream-O Strawberry is available at major supermarkets and convenience stores nationwide. It's never been easier to get your Berry ONZ moment anytime, anywhere.
The Star
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
First anniversary featuring month-long treats at three KL eateries
COURTYARD by Marriott Kuala Lumpur South is presenting a lineup of promotions this month across its three eateries, specially curated to delight every palate as the hotel celebrates its first anniversary. The hotel at Jalan Puchong, Kuala Lumpur, is marking the milestone with a month-long celebration filled with bold flavours and indulgent experiences. At Substance restaurant, guests can savour the 'Endless Lunch and Dinner with Five Flavourful Fish Creations' buffet. It highlights steamed fish in five flavourful styles, served alongside a buffet bursting with variety. The lunch buffet is available on Saturdays and Sundays, from 12.30pm to 3pm. Buy a slice of Cake of the Day at Courtyard Lounge and enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee. It is priced at RM138nett per adult, RM98nett per senior citizen (aged 55 and above) and RM69nett per child (aged six to 11). The dinner buffet is available from Thursdays to Sundays, from 6.30pm to 11pm. It is priced at RM158nett per adult, RM108nett per senior citizen (aged 55 and above) and RM79nett per child (aged six to 11). The first 20 walk-in guests get to enjoy the buffet for just RM20 per person. The lunch and dinner buffet at Substance restaurant highlights steamed fish in five flavourful styles as part of the buffet spread. Those who book online get to enjoy a 'buy one, get one free' offer. These are subject to terms and conditions. Meanwhile, Courtyard Lounge is serving a '30 Days of Cake and Coffee' treat. A handcrafted cake of the day will be showcased daily, such as a decadent Red Velvet Cake or creamy cheesecake. Those who purchase a slice of cake of the day this month will get to enjoy a complimentary coffee of their choice, be it a bold espresso, smooth latte or refreshing iced brew. Available from 3pm to 6pm, the offer is priced from RM25 onwards. A special deal is also available at 137 Bar. All promotions are available until June 30. For reservations, WhatsApp 03-8682 8898.
Daily Mirror
08-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Demi Moore told 'this is not ok' as she divides fans after rescuing ducklings
Oscar nominated actress Demi Moore was slammed by some fans for how she interacted with the three baby ducks she rescued, amid concern for the welfare of the animals Actress Demi Moore has divided fans after revealing she has rescued three baby ducks. The 62-year-old animal lover, who is said to have nine pet dogs, took to Instagram to share a cute snap with the ducklings. Tucking the baby mallards into her jacket, a smiling Demi shared they had already made friends with her Chihuahua Pilaf, who she often shares photos of. Her daughters and granddaughter were also spotted getting to know the ducklings in a series of pics posted to her social media account. The Substance star captioned the post: "Duck, duck… Pilaf! We rescued three orphaned baby mallard ducklings! With the help and guidance of my local vet we are working to nurture them until they are old enough to be reintroduced to their natural habitat. It has been a messy joy, but Pilaf is loving her new friends." Though some of her celebrity followers like Paris Hilton and Jennifer Garner commented with heart emojis and Tom Hanks wife Rita Wilson wrote "Oh my goodness! How sweet is this?" - not everybody agreed with it. READ MORE: Demi Moore and Bruce Willis' daughter Rumer, 36, defends taking baths with her sisters One follower wrote: "This is not ok. Wild mallards should be rehabbed by wildlife rehabber. Her vet should have known that. Sorry.. cute but imprinted…" Agreeing, another replied: "Correct. Handling these ducks is not a good rehab practice. They should NEVER be subjected to all that handling." A third person commented: "Yeah this is messed up, these ducks need to go to a wildlife rehab." A fourth said: "Just because a celebrity thinks its cute doesn't make it right." While a fifth asked: "What happened to mom! If they imprint to you - there is no way you should release them. That will work against them in the wild as they follow humans around. Talk to a wildlife rehab facility." But others leapt to Demi's defence, with one writing: "Those ducks will most likely live because of her. And all you can do is b***h and complain. Get a life and follow someone else." Another chimed in: "What if a rehab person is actually filming this before taking them away….what if this is being filmed at rehab facility….what if….. I would give a person benefit of doubt before criticizing [sic] or attacking them. Three little ducklings following a person. That is all that you can say with certainty." The Mirror has reached out to Demi's reps for further comment on this story. Demi is known for her love of animals and is often spotted with what seems to be her favourite dog Pilaf. The pint-sized pooch - said to be a similar size to a guinea pig - even accompanied her famous owner to a recent awards ceremony. Pilaf was seen walking the red carpet with Demi at the Film Independent Spirit Awards back in February. Movie star Demi has joked Pilaf's fame is now so big it's eclipsed her own. She said: "The truth is, I am her accessory." She has also appeared on Jimmy Fallon's chat show with Demi. Introducing Pilaf to the audience, Demi shared: "This is Pilaf, the little mouse. She is a pound and a half. She's the runt of her litter. She's a magical creature." Jimmy replied: "She is. I met her backstage and her tongue permanently hangs out." Demi replied: "It does. She lost the teeth that hold it in, but it's part of her charm. Demi admitted she also sleeps with her dogs - and that might be why she's currently single. She shared: "If anybody saw my nighttime routine, if it was filmed, they would really see how eccentric I am. "I have to prop pillows so the ones that are this size have the ability to get under the covers. I have two beds for the little ones so that they have the beds within the bed. Hence why I'm single!"
Irish Examiner
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Examiner
Demi Lovato marries singer-songwriter Jordan ‘Jutes' Lutes in California
She is more than just cool for the summer – Demi Lovato is officially married. The musician-actress, 32, tied the knot with Canadian singer-songwriter Jordan 'Jutes' Lutes, 34, on Sunday in California, as first reported by Vogue. The couple met while working on Lovato's last album, 2022's Holy Fvck, and dated for nearly two years before Lutes proposed in December 2023. Lutes co-wrote a few of the songs that made Holy Fvck, including Happy Ending, City Of Angels, and the pop-punk single Substance. Lovato wore a white Vivienne Westwood dress and Lutes wore a Saint Laurent suit. Lovato, a former child star, began her entertainment career on Barney & Friends before becoming a staple of Disney Channel in the 2000s for her role in the Camp Rock films and as the star of Sonny With A Chance. Beyond her acting, Lovato has long been celebrated for her gifted soprano and has released eight albums. Lutes, an independent artist whose hybridist music marries elements of emo, pop-punk and trap, was previously signed to Capitol Records. Before her relationship with Lutes, Lovato was engaged to the actor Max Ehrich in 2020. They called off their engagement after two months.
