This is Vantage POINT: A monthly moodboard for things that have been on our minds as of late, topics both fresh and familiar. We point you towards what to watch out for and what we think you should be enjoying right now. And if whatever we love becomes whatever you love (at least a little bit), then we’ve done our jobs.
Looking for some fresh content to keep you busy this month? Vantage has got you covered. We’re here to help you kickstart this season of love with some recommendations close to our hearts, from Oscar-nominated films to local events you won’t want to miss.
Release: Feb 5
With an all-star female cast consisting of Margot Robbie, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Rosie Perez, and Ali Wong, Birds of Prey is bound to kick butt. This soon-to-be blockbuster won’t only give Harley Quinn and her new friends their well-deserved spotlight, it’s also out to prove that female superheroes (or villains) can stand alone with their own films too. The DC Cinematic Universe has had its hits and misses with its past few films, we’re definitely hoping that they knock this one out of the park. - Toots
Release: Feb 5
Sam Mendes’ 1917 isn’t as popular as its competitors for Best Picture at the Oscars. Yet after bagging numerous wins such as Best Picture - Drama & Best Director at the 77th Golden Globes, this highly acclaimed war film has slowly made its mark among mainstream audiences. 1917 tells the story of two British soldiers tasked with delivering a message to call off an impending attack against German forces as it is a trap that is doomed to fail. The film is based on the real-life account of Mendes’ grandfather during Operation Alberich of World War I in the year of 1917. Personally, I’m pleasantly surprised to see this kind of film released in the Philippines–especially with the legendary Roger Deakins (Blade Runner 2049, The Shawshank Redemption, Skyfall) at the helm of the film’s cinematography. There is no doubt that the film will be a visual treat to catch on the big screen. - Gab
Seventeen World Tour: ODE TO YOU in Manila
Date: February 8
13-member K-Pop act SEVENTEEN returns to Manila for their second world tour this February. After continuously filling up concert arenas around Asia, America, and Europe since August of last year, this group is more than ready to give their Filipino fans a night they certainly won’t forget. Join the boys in a sea of rose quartz and serenity as they mesmerize audiences with their powerful vocals and show-stopping choreography. Don’t miss the chance to catch this acclaimed boy group’s iconic performances and chart-topping hits, from fan-favorite ballads like “Smile Flower” and intense dance tracks such as “Getting Closer.” - Anya
Date: February 10-15
The highly anticipated University of the Philippines Fair 2020 is coming and changing things up along the way. Instead of beginning on a Tuesday, which was common practice since the early 70’s, this year’s UP Fair kicks off on a Monday–adding Hiwaga alongside their Kalye Tunes, Elements, Roots, Cosmos, and REV themes for the week. This year boasts some of their best line-ups to date, with performances from acts such as Ebe Dancel, UNIQUE, Munimuni, UDD, Ben&Ben, and much more. In addition to the musical performances, concert-goers can also enjoy carnival rides and a variety of food stalls which are sure to satisfy anyone’s taste. Overall, the UP Fair 2020 is sure to be a worthwhile experience that any music fan would thoroughly enjoy–just like it’s been for the past years. - Gab
Date: February 22
Making their way into the public eye, premier underground events community UNKNWN Manila brings their first annual music festival Fiesta to Intramuros. Unlike the Wanderland Music Festival which fashions itself after the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, UNKNWN’s Fiesta incorporates Philippine culture into the event—taking inspiration from the country’s traditional fiestas like Sinulog and Ati-atihan, among others. With more than 30 artists and three stages to watch, Fiesta promises to be the best 14-hour dance party that UNKWN has yet to offer. - Gab
Need something new to add to your Youtube-binge sessions? Jem’s channel is sure to do the trick. If you’re as much of a sucker for cute student life vlogs as I am, click on the subscribe button for this one. Jem’s soothing voice, the earthy color grading, and the lo-fi backing tracks that characterize her videos have attracted 400,000 subscribers, with content ranging from “day-in-the-life” vlogs, productivity advice, and skincare routines. The chill and laid-back vibe of Jem’s videos make her channel a joy to keep up with, whether they’re playing in the background while you work or binging ten of her vlogs before bed. - Anya
Everything Else Has Gone Wrong - Bombay Bicycle Club (2020)
Release date: January 17, 2020
New decade, new alt-rock music. For many of us, Bombay Bicycle Club made the soundtracks of our high school days, with hits like “Always Like This,” “You Already Know,” and “Shuffle” excessively on repeat in our streaming devices. After a long artistic hiatus, they’ve finally returned with a fresh new album that might just be the soundtrack of our early 20’s. Everything Else Has Gone Wrong is a little bit of everything; bright, playful, but also painfully honest with its themes of adulthood and hope. Songs from the album like “Eat, Sleep, Wake (Nothing But You)” and “Is It Real” are telltale signs on just how much the band has grown and matured—both in lyrics and in sound—and are some of their must-hear songs in their 11-track album. The six years were well worth the wait. - Toots
