3 Stars and A Sun review

Francis Magalona may be gone but he is alive because of his music and those who understand his message. The message of FrancisM's songs also came to life because of PETA's latest musical production, "3 Stars and A Sun".

After the success of Rak Of Aegis, PETA once again compiled the music of one of the Philippines' respectable music icon and rap pioneer and made a story out of it. Just like Rak Of Aegis, I never expected these specific rap songs can tell a story. Thanks to the writing of Rody Vera and Mix Villalon.

The story takes place in a possible future after a nuclear holocaust that made the Filipinos fled to a domed shelter called Stormdome. The surviving Filipinos were subjected to mind wipe when the democratic government falls and the rise of a new dystopian society. The next generation that follows has no idea about their true heritage.

Living inside the Stormdome, the dystopian society has two existing factions. Those who live in Lumina is the one who governed and the working class in Diliman. The status quo is the theme of the story.

It is also interesting that Francis M's songs fit right in the story and the society. Just like Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady, it is also has sci-fi element to it. But the best part of the production was how relevant and timely this story is in Philippine's current events. This is probably the best time to consider this coming election.

I like how they designed the set. It is combined of futuristic and post-apocalytic with a touch of steam punk. The sci-fi element is not far off.

"3 Stars and A Sun" opens at PETA starting February 4 until February 7. A tip before watching. Be sure to sing the National Anthem up to the end so you can understand how significant it is to the story. For more musical productions, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

MUSIC-FILLED CROSS-COUNTRY ODYSSEY IN “ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS 4: THE ROAD CHIP”

Press release

Strutting and dancing their way into their latest movie installment, Alvin, Theodore and Simon star in the latest addition to the hit franchise “Alvin and the Chipmunks” in “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip” with the returning voice cast of Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler, and Jesse McCartney. 

Photo courtesy of 20th Century Fox

                In “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip,” the Chipmunks hit the road and embark on a journey to stop their guardian Dave (Jason Lee) from what they believe to be a wedding proposal in Miami.  Alvin, who’s charming and musical with boundless enthusiasm and animal magnetism; Simon, whose I.Q. is just north of Einstein’s; and Theodore, who’s shy, good-natured, loving and sensitive along with new equally mischievous pal, Miles (Josh Green) son of Dave’s special friend, Samantha (Kimberly Williams-Paisley) are not thrilled on the idea of Dave and Sam tying the knot. ‘

                “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip” shakes things up, musically.  Each stop on the ‘Munks’ and Miles’ quest has its own special character and different musical influence – from modern, hip-hop/country vibe of an Austin, Texas bar to the great jazz, blues and funk of New Orleans, and finally to the Latin flair of Miami.

                Continuing a soundtrack tradition for the series, Alvin and the Chipmunks put their own delightful new spin on smashes including “Uptown Funk,” “Turn Down For What,” and more. In addition, Redfoo and the boys trade verses on “Juicy Wiggle (Munk Remix).” The soundtrack also features Sheppard’s platinum-certified international hit “Geronimo” and The Score’s “Oh My Love.”   Mark Mothersbaugh is the composer and the executive music producer is Alana Da Fonseca. 

                “Alvin and the Chipmunks 4: The Road Chip” opens January 20 in cinemas from 20^th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner