Here's Every Live-Action Disney Princess Movie, Ranked
Asia/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

Happily Ever After: Ranking the Disney Princess Live-Action Remakes

Photo 2 Photo by Walt Disney Studios

Disney’s animated princess movies are the pinnacle of its Renaissance era, otherwise known as the House of Mouse’s golden age, when they returned to producing the most commercially successful and critically acclaimed animated features. These films have enchanted audiences for decades, so it’s no surprise that Hollywood began rummaging through Mickey’s vault and brought many of them to life with big-budget live-action remakes. 

From dazzling visuals equipped with impressive CGI effects to fresh takes on beloved characters, these films recapture the magic of the originals, igniting nostalgia among long-time Disney fans, all the while introducing them to a new generation

But not all of them have lived up to fairy-tale expectations. While some have soared to new heights, others had fans waiting for a different kind of Happily Ever After. 

In honor of the premiere of the live-action remake of Disney’s very first princess, Snow White, we figured it’s about time we ranked the films released so far. However, we’re only including the official Disney Princesses, which means movies like “Enchanted” — although a clever and magical story that combines elements from various Disney Princess films will not be included.

Without further ado, here’s our ranking of live-action Disney Princess movies from least enchanting to most magical!

#8 Mulan (2020)

Starring: Yifei Liu, Gong Li, and Donnie Yen

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"Mulan" follows the story of a young woman who disguises herself as a man in the imperial army to take her father’s place in the war. She’s the first Disney Princess who wasn’t based on a fairytale but a Chinese legend and continues to be a shining role model for girls everywhere as she taught us that the “flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all.”

The remake had been highly anticipated, considering there was much to love about the original 1998 classic, from the catchy songs to the action-packed storyline. However, the 2020 live-action film directed by Niki Caro strayed far away from the source, removing the things that made the original so enjoyable in the first place

Although the battle sequences were well shot and at par with popular Chinese action films, the film didn’t have the comic relief that was provided by Eddie Murphy’s character, Mushu and more importantly, the songs. How on Earth do you expect us to defeat the Huns without the “I'll Make a Man Out of You” montage?

While the changes made to the plot were admirable as it was intended to highlight women empowerment and be closer to the source material, it was devoid of its iconic humor, making the film a little less magical. We did give points, however, for having Christina Aguilera sing the beloved song “Reflection” again for the end credits. 

#7 Snow White (2025)

Starring: Rachel Zegler, Gal Gadot, Andrew Burnap

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It was only about time that Disney’s OG princess got her own live-action movie. Don’t get us wrong, the story has seen various remakes through the years such as Lily Collin’s “Mirror, Mirror” and Kristen Stewart’s “Snow White and the Huntsman” among the popular ones, but to have a Disney-made one, honoring the original 1937 classic would be a first. 

Theater actress Rachel Zegler played the titular role, which we believed was a good choice considering she had the pipes for it and brought a refreshing take on the role. Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen was unexpected but very much welcomed by Disney fans, intrigued to see her in a villain role after having played a superhero for DC Comics. With a good cast and the promise of new songs, where did it go wrong?

Snow White” suffers from the same thing “Mulan” did, but instead of just straying from the source material, we felt it altered Snow White’s character a little too much. Although the intention was to make her stronger and more independent, which was supported by a good backstory, this Snow White felt a little too modern, which can be both a good and bad thing. We’re still torn about whether or not it’s a win, but it was an enjoyable film, nonetheless, and the new songs were a wonderful addition to the classic.

#6 Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019)

Starring: Angelina Jolie and Elle Fanning

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Now you might be wondering, isn’t Maleficent a villain? Yes, but Disney decided to make this iconic antagonist more relatable and sympathetic by giving her own film but still following the timeline of the original “Sleeping Beauty” film. 

This isn’t that film, however, but its sequel, and unlike its predecessor, the plot falls short, and the character development could’ve used a little bit more adjustment. Aurora (Elle Fanning), who is now queen of the Moors, saw very little development from what we already knew about her while the villain in this film — although slightly more evil than what we expected this company to develop, being a queen who wanted to commit genocide, didn’t quite live up to its potential. 

On the other hand, just like the first film, it’s visually stunning with an impressive ensemble of actors who actually look like their animated counterparts. It might not be the best, but definitely better than most of the sequels Disney produced in the 90s. 

#5 Aladdin (2019)

Starring: Will Smith, Mena Massoud, and Naomi Scott 

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Aladdin” was a magical surprise. It was interesting to see how everyone kind of hated it the moment the teaser trailer came out, only to be pleasantly swept off their feet after watching the film in its entirety. In fact, it flew past the billion-dollar mark at the worldwide box office, making it one of the most commercially successful movies on this roster. 

And what’s not to love? Not only did Mena Massoud look like the handsome, dimpled thief from Agrabah, but he also sounded like him! Will Smith also defied expectations and really shone as the Genie, much to the fans’ delight. Princess Jasmine (Naomi Scott) also got a little bit more screen time, plus a well-deserved solo song, which would’ve been really good if it hadn’t clashed with the original soundtrack’s sound. It seemed a little bit too modern, despite being a good pop song. 

Although “Aladdin” was a good film in terms of paying tribute to the original, it fell short on originality; the changes made neither added nor subtracted value to the franchise. Do we like it better than the animation? Not really. Is it one of the better live-action remakes? Absolutely! 10/10 would still get on that magic carpet ride. 

#4 The Little Mermaid (2023)

Starring: Halle Bailey, Jonah Hauer-King, and Melissa McCarthy

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It felt like forever until we saw this feature on the screen, considering it was the film that got caught up in the pandemic, and filming took longer as it had to be paused mid-way. Everyone had been skeptical about it mainly because they had cast a black woman as our favorite red-headed mermaid — a character assumed to be white since it was originally based on a tale from Denmark. But some fans have argued, she’s a mermaid, a fictional character. Does race matter?

As a matter of fact, it does. But not for the reason you think. We believed representation mattered, and Halle Bailey completely understood the assignment when she switched her legs for a tail in this role. It made sense why Disney had chosen her, considering she had the most beautiful voice and portrayed Ariel’s spirit so effortlessly; it was like the character literally came to life before our eyes.

The movie stayed true to the original but with minor changes and additions that gave more depth to the characters we know and love. Take Prince Eric’s soaring solo “Wild Uncharted Waters” which gave us a little bit more insight into how he felt after being saved, and his love for sailing and expeditions; or that adorable interaction before “Kiss the Girl” when Ariel tried to teach Eric how to say her name (IYKYK). 

“The Little Mermaid” successfully revived a classic tale with improved character development, a handful of new iconic songs, and thought-out interactions but surprisingly falls short on the visual aspect. It was impressive how they managed to make an entire movie set underwater, and we know nothing about CGI, but that would’ve been a difficult feat. However, it didn’t look as realistic as we’d hoped and didn’t give us that feeling of being submerged under the sea. Nonetheless, this film deserves a high spot on this list for its diversity and polished storytelling. 

#3 Maleficent (2014)

Starring: Angelina Jolie and Elle Fanning

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Maleficent may have been a villain, but she’s Disney royalty in her own right, having been a box-office success in 2014, which led to the string of live-action films on this list. This movie is a retelling of the classic tale and narrates the story from the perspective of the villain a refreshing concept that earned its spot in the Top 3. 

We believe Disney made a good choice telling the story from Maleficent’s point of view as this opens up possibilities for her character development. In the original animated feature, she was just the “Mistress of All Evil” with little to no background on why or how she came to take on the title. In the movie, Disney told us about Maleficent’s origins as a fairy with massive wings as well as her conflicted relationship with King Stefan — who was portrayed as the villain in this story. We also loved Maleficent and Aurora’s dynamic in this tale, how the plot humanizes her with a compelling character arc. 

It's far from the tale or villain we know, but it’s new and intriguing, and opened the possibility for other characters — whether villains or supporting roles — to get their turn in the spotlight. 

#2 Beauty and the Beast

Starring: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, and Luke Evans

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There may be no such thing as perfection, but Disney’s live-action remake of “Beauty and the Beast” came close. Like “Aladdin,” the film retained most of its original elements, from the character looks and design to the music and storyline. There were only subtle nuances in this tale, like how they made Belle more of an inventor than just a girl who loves to read, and was truly someone who thought outside the box, which better explained why everyone in town thought she was odd. There were also visual flashbacks about Belle’s mother and the Beast prior to the curse, which were only told by a narrator in the original animation. This improved character development, making them more relatable and worth rooting for. 

These subtle changes also filled up the gaps in the original animated feature and answered some of our questions, like why everyone forgot about the castle and its occupants. Or why Mrs. Potts, Lumiere, and Cogsworth stay loyal to the prince despite him being, well — mean.

Perhaps its strongest change was the new music made by no other than legendary composer Alan Menken, who somehow made his original score even better with the addition of “Days In the Sun”, “Evermore,” and “How Does a Moment Last Forever.” Our favorite tracks were still heard throughout the film, given a more vibrant and soaring sound, highlighting its magical aspect. It flooded us with sweet nostalgia and had us crying at the end of the film. Yes — we’re talking about that scene just as the last petal fell. Watch it to know what we mean!

#1 Cinderella (2015)

Starring: Lily James, Cate Blanchett, Helena Bonham Carter, and Richard Madden

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Ten years since it was released and this live-action remake remains untouched as the best among the rest, and we believe many would agree. It exemplified what these remakes could do when done well, and what can make these adaptations enjoyable for fans and new audiences. Like “Beauty and the Beast,” “Cinderella" retained all the elements that made it magical and beautiful, which made it a nostalgic masterpiece. Its modern take was present in the way technology was used to enhance scenes such as Cinderella’s iconic dress transformation, which instantly made the audience feel as if they were seeing it for the first time.

It had a slightly longer run time, which gave more time to develop Prince Charming’s character, who had always been a mystery since he barely had any dialogue in the animation. It also deepened our understanding of Cinderella’s character by showing us scenes from before she was orphaned and how she lived by her mother’s words, which led her to become so kind that she allowed her stepmothers and sisters to treat her badly. 

The actors were all well-suited for the roles, with Cate Blanchett and Helena Bonham Carter, in particular, shining in their roles as the stepmother and Fairy godmother. Lily James was a gem and truly stepped into the role of the kind maiden in glass slippers, as well. The costumes were divine, and the set design was remarkable. It’s pure Disney magic from start to finish; a masterpiece in its own right. We just know people wouldn’t mind watching it over and over again the way they do with the original animated features. 

You can watch all these fantastic Disney live-action movies on Disney+. You can also follow the platform on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more magical Disney films and shows. 

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This Week's Events Across Asia

Asia/ Delish/ Happenings
Share A Coke Makes a Joyful Return After a Decade
Share A Coke Photo by Courtesy of Coca-Cola

If you remember the thrill of spotting your name on a Coke bottle, get excited, because that beloved moment is back! 

After 10 years, Coca-Cola’s iconic Share A Coke campaign is making a major comeback, this time targeting Gen Z, with the reminder of how powerful a simple, personal connection can be in today’s digital world. 

Now, you can find bottles and cans with more than 5000 Gen Z-relevant names and nicknames on shelves in supermarkets and convenience stores across more than 120 countries globally.

The campaign first sparked joy down under in Australia in 2011 and reached Singapore in 2015, replacing the classic Coca-Cola logo with popular names and fun titles. 

coca cola
Courtesy of Coca-Cola

In the ASEAN and South Pacific region, it’s already lighting up hearts from Thailand to New Zealand, with Myanmar next in line to join the party. This time, Coca-Cola is inviting fans to jump into the fun via their mobile app and QR codes on packaging. 

These links lead to a digital hub where you can customize your own Coke packaging or dive into the “Share a Coke Memory Maker,” a playful tool that helps you craft personalized videos and memes to celebrate friendship and share special moments.

As Islam ElDessouky, Global VP of Creative at Coca-Cola, puts it, “Share a Coke is back and supercharged, celebrating the pure magic when people connect.”

Keep an eye out for ‘The Magic of Sharing’ film, influencer collaborations, and “Share a Meal” bundles at select McDonald’s locations. 

Click here to get started on customization, whether it's for a gift, a celebration, or just for fun!

For more information, visit Coca-Cola on their website, Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter). 

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Asia/ Vibe/ Pop Culture
‘How To Train Your Dragon’ Soars to New Heights with New Live-Action Remake
How To Train Your Dragon 3 Photo by Universal Pictures/Website

The very first time Hiccup rode the elusive Night Fury across the skies in the original 2010 animated feature, lives were changed. Suddenly, everyone wanted to be a dragon rider. We all wanted our own Toothless with his adorable grin and incredible firepower. 

When the live-actionHow To Train Your Dragon” was announced in 2023, we were a little skeptical — worried even, considering the numerous pitfalls of these remakes. But with Dean DeBlois returning to write and direct, John Powell, who worked on the score of the original animated trilogy, returning to compose the music, and Gerard Butler reprising his role as the mighty Stoick the Vast, anxiety easily turned into excitement. Because let’s face it, there is no way this film could be bad with most of its original creators producing it.

Safe to say, we were right. The Beat Manila caught the premiere screening in Manila last June 7, where Vikings of all ages got together at SM Mall of Asia to witness the new movie on the IMAX screen — in 3D! And the verdict? From the story down to the casting and CGI effects, this live-action feature captures the magic and heartfelt moments that made the original film so special, and then takes it to another level!

How to train your dragon
Photo from Universal Pictures/Website

An Epic Adventure For All Ages

We like to believe that one of a film studio’s deciding factors in doing a live-action remake is a film’s timeless quality — and by timeless, we mean a movie that embodies a relevant story no matter the season. 

For those who haven’t see the original 2010 animation, “How to Train Your Dragon” is set on the isle of Berk where dragons run amok and have battled Vikings for generations. The story follows Hiccup, the son of the village chief, Stoick, and how he defies the Viking tradition of dragon slaying when he saves an injured Night Fury dragon, whom he eventually befriends and names, Toothless

Beyond its lovable characters and visually stunning animation, the movie carries meaningful themes and messages such as practicing empathy over fear, challenging traditions, courage, and loyalty, which makes it a story worth watching over and over. 

The live-action remake was loyal to the animated version and included all the iconic scenes, dialogues, and heartfelt moments, which, for us long-time fans, made it a remake done right as it provided us with that dose of nostalgia while also allowing us to see the film with new eyes through its incredible visuals. And yes, we’re talking about the dragons, which somehow became ten times more impressive, more life-like, and fluffy. We know they’re basically giant reptiles, but Toothless is giving Stitch a run for his money! 

Toothless
Photo from Universal Pictures/Website
Hiccup
Photo from Universal Pictures/Website

Although the dragons looked as vicious as the dragons we’ve seen in the “Harry Potter” franchise or “Game of Thrones,” the remake still captured their vibrant colors and amazing shapes, all the while retaining all their fascinating details from their dog-like grins to their eyes that seem to communicate something deep in their souls. 

It’s been a while since we’ve seen a live-action feature with an incredibly accurate casting that it almost felt like they came out of the animated movie. Mason Thames’ Hiccup was incredible! He gave life to this beloved character with much ease. From his mannerisms to his voice acting, it was like animated Hiccup manifested on the live-action screen. Gerard Butler also did a wonderful job portraying Stoick on the big screen, whom he also voiced in the animation. How lucky that he had the build and stance for a massive Viking, and we got the best voice and visual actor for the character?

Nico Parker played the role of Astrid, Hiccup’s rival and love interest. Although the live-action Astrid didn’t have blonde hair, she had her grit and her fire. One comment we had, however, was that we had hoped for her to have been more expressive, as her facial expressions looked a little flat in some scenes. 

Other standout supporting roles include Nick Frost as Gobber, Julian Dennison as the dragon expert Fishlegs, Bronwyn James and Harry Trevaldwyn playing the hilarious twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut, and Gabriel Howell rounding up the young contenders in the Trial of Flames as Snotlout.

Astrid
Photo from Universal Pictures/Website
Stoick
Photo from Universal Pictures/Website

Despite its amazing cast and visuals, we do have to say that the movie lacked in bringing something new to the table, as almost all the important scenes were unchanged. You’d be able to see the adorable montage of Toothless warming up to Hiccup from the way he perched upside down on a tree branch like a bat to how he looked expectedly at Hiccup as the latter struggled to swallow a bite of that raw fish. There were also the little details, like when Hiccup took Astrid flying for the first time, and she was airborne for a moment and spun against the clouds, which was every bit as romantic and thrilling in the animated version. 

It may feel redundant for those who have seen the original, a similar feeling to Disney’s “The Lion King” live-action remake, but staying true to the source material gives new viewers a chance to appreciate the story for what it was. Then again, for the fans, was there anything we wanted to change in the original? We think the answer is pretty obvious. 

Final Verdict

“How To Train Your Dragon” is a gift for the fans of the animated version and a wonderful adventure for the new generation of dragon riders, as it takes viewers on an epic thrill ride, packed with top-notch storytelling, stunning visuals, and epic battle sequences. There’s just something about seeing these animated films in real life that makes them feel closer to us, like seeing movies in your head come to life. Additionally, being shot for IMAX 3D gave the film a new dimension, making it extra thrilling and more life-like, so we highly recommend watching it in theaters for the complete experience. 

Dragons may just be a fantasy, but being brave enough to step up and do what’s right or befriending an innocent animal are things that are part of our reality, and this film beautifully captures that magic. Although it didn’t change much in terms of story, it enhanced and enriched the world-building to new heights, making this more than just a cartoon but an epic fantasy adventure for people of all ages. It just goes to show that no matter how old you get, dragons will always be cool, and we will always want to ride one. We’re giving this movie 4.5 stars for hitting the trifecta for a perfect live-action remake: loyalty, heart, and dragons — well, magic, but same thing!  

“How To Train Your Dragon” officially soars into theatres in Manila on June 11, 2025 and the rest of the world on June 13. Watch the trailer here.

For updates, follow Universal Pictures on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram

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Asia/ The List/ Nightlife
K-Pop Girl Group TWICE Announced Dates for ‘This Is For’ World Tour
Twice Photo by @JYPETWICE/X (Formerly Twitter)

2025 concerts are just piling up, and just when we think it couldn’t get any better, another massive K-Pop group announced the dates and stops for their upcoming world tour!

ONCEs get ready! TWICE just revealed the dates to their 2025 World Tour, “This Is For,” which will take the group across cities in Asia and Australia. The tour coincides with the release of their fourth studio album of the same name, which is expected to drop in July. 

The K-Pop superstars will kick off the tour with a two-night concert at Inspire Arena in Incheon, which will be followed by Japan, where the group is scheduled to play five cities. They will then stop at Macao, the Philippines, Singapore, Sydney, and more. Here are the cities they’ll be playing at for the first leg set to happen from July through December:

TWICE “This Is For” World Tour Part 1

  • Incheon, South Korea (Inspire Arena): July 19 and 20
  • Osaka, Japan (Kyocera Dome Osaka): July 26 and 27
  • Aichi, Japan (Vantelin Dome Nagoya): Aug. 23 and 24
  • Fukuoka, Japan (Mizuho Paypay Dome Fukuoka): Aug. 30 and 31
  • Tokyo, Japan (Tokyo Dome): Sept. 16 and 17
  • Macao, China (The Venetian Arena): Sept. 27 and 28
  • Bulacan, Philippines (Philippine Arena): Oct. 4
  • Singapore (Singapore Indoor Stadium): Oct. 11 and 12
  • Sydney, Australia (Qudos Bank Arena): Nov. 1 and 2
  • Melbourne, Australia (Rod Laver Arena): Nov. 8 and 9
  • Kaohsiung, Taiwan (Kaohsiung National Stadium): Nov. 22
  • Hong Kong SAR (Kai Tak Stadium): Dec. 6
  • Bangkok, Thailand (Impact Arena): Dec. 13 and 14
This Is For World Tour
Photo from X (Formerly Twitter)/JYPETWICE

The official poster mentioned that more dates will be announced soon, so we’re expecting more cities to be added to the list for early 2026. 

TWICE debuted in 2015 under JYP Entertainment and consists of nine members: Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung, and Tzuyu. They are known for their hits “Cheer Up,” “TT,” and “What Is Love?” 

With over 14 EPs (Extended Play), three full albums, and an array of major music awards, including the Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA) where they were the first group to win Song of the Year for three consecutive years, TWICE is beloved by fans in Korea and around the globe, earning them the title “The Nation’s Girl Group.” This upcoming tour marks the fourth international tour and the sixth overall concert series headlined by the group. They’ll be joining a lineup of other K-Pop idols going on tour in the second half of the year, such as BLACKPINK, Highlight, and RIIZE.

For tour updates, follow TWICE on FacebookX (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for updates. 

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Asia/ Vibe/ Pop Culture
New Disney+ Exclusive Anime by ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ Director Premieres July 16
BULLET BULLET Photo by Disney+ Philippines

Fresh from his recent win at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2025 for Best Original Anime, renowned director Sunghoo Park returns with his long-awaited Original anime series “BULLET/BULLET,” airing exclusively on Disney+

Set in a post-apocalyptic world where people are forced to repurpose junk from the Old World to survive, “BULLET/BULLET” follows Gear, a junk dealer with a secret. Working as a thief by night, he partners with Qu-0213, a robot with multiple personalities, and Shirokuma, a polar bear with a gambling problem, to steal whatever their clients require. Known as some of the best in the business, things take a turn for the team when they save a girl from a group of assassins, setting them on a path that puts them in direct conflict with the top ranks of their broken society. 

The anime was reported to have been ten years in the making, and features an all-star voice cast including Marina Inoue (“Attack on Titan” and “Smile PreCure!”) as Gear, Kazuhiro Yamaji (“PSYCHO-PASS” and “One-Punch Man”) as polar bear Shirokuma, Rie Kugimiya (“Gintama” and  “Fullmetal Alchemist”) as Nosa-Nee, and Kana Hanazawa (“Quintessential Quintuplets” and “PSYCHO-PASS”) as Kaw-Nee.

“BULLET/BULLET” will have 16 episodes in total that will air in two parts on July 16 and Aug. 13.

Bullet/Bullet poster
Photo from Disney+ Philippines

Anime series are known for their fantastic soundtracks, and this one boasts an all-new opening track by famed rapper Chanmina called “Work Hard,” while Tokyo-based rock band Newspeak lends their song “Glass Door” as its ending theme. 

The high-stakes series is directed by Sunghoo Park, the mastermind behind the Season 1 and Movie of the popular anime franchise “Jujutsu Kaisen” and “The God of High School.”  It’s written by Aki Kindaichi (“Uma Musume: Cinderella Grey”), with character design by Chief Animation Director Takahiro Yoshimatsu (“Future GPX Cyber Formula” and “Hunter x Hunter”) and concept and mechanical designs by Hidetaka Tenjin (“Mobile Suit Gundam” and “Macross”). 

It’s set to join the streaming platform’s growing list of APAC originals, which includes popular anime series “Tokyo Revengers,” “Murai in Love,” “Phoenix: Eden17,” “Medalist,” and the two-season live adaptation of the webtoon “Gannibal,” which follows the story about a newly assigned police officer who uncovers a horrifying truth about the residents of his Japanese village. 

Don’t miss the exciting new adventure only at Disney+! Watch the trailer here

Stay tuned for more magical releases by following Disney+ on FacebookX (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram.

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Asia/ Vibe/ Celebs & Influencers
BTS is Back! Here’s What to Expect for BTS FESTA 2025
BTS Festa Photo by @bangtan.official/Facebook

BTS ARMY! The wait is finally over. The legendary K-Pop group BTS, known to have swept the entire world off their feet with their music, explosive performances, and sold-out concert tours, is finally reuniting! And yes, it feels so good!

As BTS marks their 12th anniversary, BTS FESTA 2025 stands out as more than just a heartfelt celebration of togetherness and career accomplishments, but a prelude to their much-awaited reunion as the remaining members finish their mandatory military service this month.

For the uninitiated, BTS FESTA is an annual two-week-long celebration commemorating the debut of the group. They usually prepare a bunch of surprises from new singles and remixes to group concept photos and collectible merchandise. The anniversary date falls on June 13, which is celebrated with a live show, serving as the culmination of the festivities.

Each year’s FESTA embodies a theme, and this year it’s “Twelve O’clock,” which is inspired by their ballad track, “00:00 (Zero O’Clock).” According to member Jin, it symbolizes “the new future that we’ll be sharing with ARMY.” 

Whether you’re an international ARMY tuning in online or a fan in South Korea, BTS made sure that everyone can join in on the fun! From exclusive merchandise to concept drops and interactive events, here are the highlights of BTS FESTA 2025 that you wouldn’t want to miss!

BTS FESTA 2025 Highlights

June 1: Start of Festivities

Last June 1, BIGHIT MUSIC officially launched the start of BTS FESTA with a news video announcing the special events and activities they have prepared. The BTS NEWS was hosted by members Jin and J-Hope, who were discharged from the military last year. The video is filled with nostalgic throwbacks, humorous skits, and, of course, an exciting lineup of surprises for the next two weeks. 

You can watch the video here.

BTS Festa Schedule
Schedule | Photo from @bts_bighit/X (Formerly Twitter)

June 2 to 8: New Concept Photos, Behind the Scenes Look, and FESTA Merch

ARMYs are in for a treat as Jin and J-Hope release a set of concept photos from playful and creative visuals to sentimental shots. There will also be a behind-the-scenes look at the photoshoot sessions!

A FESTA wouldn’t be complete without commemorative souvenirs. This year’s exclusive merchandise will be sold online and offline at BTS FESTA in KINTEX on June 13 and 14. 

HYBE Merch has already released a 21-second teaser video featuring a range of exclusive products such as tumblers, caps, and bags. The full product line-up will be revealed on June 4. Pre-orders start on June 5 at 6 PM (KST) via the Weverse shop. 

Several other content will also be released throughout the week, including the “Anchor Battle” (June 7) and “Today's★Army 613” (June 8), which is a tribute to their fans’ enduring support through the years. 

June 12: HoseokJin’s “12:00” (Twelve O’Clock)

After a bunch of Festa-related content dropping throughout the week, a special release tied to their song “00:00 (Zero O’clock)” will drop on June 12. Nothing has been confirmed, but fans speculate a remix of the song or a new track by Jin and J-Hope

Either way, we’re hyped!

Jin
Jin | Photo from @bangtan.official/Facebook
J-Hope
J-Hope | Photo from @bangtan.official/Facebook

June 13 and 14: BTS FESTA Offline Event

The main highlight of this celebration is not seeing Jin’s handsome face — a.k.a. Mr. Worldwide Handsome — though that comes close to second, but the two-day in-person celebration at KINTEX!

According to the announcement posted on BTS’ official accounts, a total of 20 booths will be set up in two halls of KINTEX in Goyang, South Korea. The indoor festival will run from 10 AM to 7 PM (final entry at 6 PM) and will feature thirteen immersive zones packed with exclusive experiences and memorable photo spots!

The “ARMY Bomb Photo Spot” welcomes fans into the hall with a giant light stick and hourly light shows, making it the perfect spot for a commemorative photo. Some of the booth highlights include the “Voice Zone,” where you can listen to the members’ voice messages, the “Trophy Zone,” which chronicles BTS’ award-winning history, and the “BTS Locker,” where you can glimpse some of the artists' favorite items. 

You can also look back on your favorite BTS tracks through the years in the “Archive Zone,” which displays their complete album art collection and the Spotify Playlist area where you can listen to music curated by the members themselves. 

Fans can also make custom photocards, pin buttons, and scented sachets at the “DIY Zone,” and have a ball at the “Coloring Wall,” where they can paint over album artwork designs. Apart from the interactive zones, attendees can also expect to receive various gifts from sponsors at the event!

On these dates, J-Hope is also set to do his encore stage for his solo world tour, “HOPE ON THE STAGE,” at the Goyang Sports Complex Main Stadium. He will also be releasing his new single, “Killin’ It Girl,” featuring rapper GloRilla on June 13 (1 PM, KST) alongside a music video. The concept photos have already been released on their social media pages, and yes, he is killin’ it!

J-Hope
Photo from @bangtan.official/Facebook
J-Hope
Photo from @bangtan.official/Facebook

Safe to say that there’s much to look forward to in the next few days. Although Jin and J-Hope are the only two members confirmed to participate, there is a big possibility that other members will take part in the celebrations, as most of them will be discharged before June 13, with only Suga scheduled for June 21. We’re keeping our fingers crossed, but till then, we can’t wait for this amazing festival as it sets the stage for their full-group comeback later this year or in early 2026. 

For updates, follow BTS on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok.

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Asia/ The List/ Nightlife
K-Pop Group BLACKPINK Drops Dates for ‘Deadline’ World Tour
Blackpink Photo by Blackpink/Facebook

Get ready to catch BLACKPINK in your area as the popular K-Pop girl group drops the dates for their much-awaited comeback world tour!

The group’s comeback was confirmed via a teaser video posted on their accounts last February. They re-confirmed this on May 16 when they dropped the title of their upcoming world tour, “Deadline.”

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And today, YG Entertainment and BLACKPINK’s official social media pages just revealed the dates and stops for the tour, and it’s happening sooner than you think! Hold on to your BL-Bing-Bong light sticks, Blinks! The girls are about to cause a shutdown in areas across Asia, the United States, and Europe. Here are the cities they’ll be playing at starting this July:

BLACKPINK “Deadline” World Tour Dates:

2025

  • Goyang, South Korea (Goyang Stadium): July 5 and 6
  • Los Angeles, United States (Sofi Stadium): July 12 and 13
  • Chicago, United States (Soldier Field): July 18
  • Toronto, Canada (Rogers Stadium): July 22 and 23
  • New York, United States (Citi Field): July 26 and 27
  • Paris, France (Stade de France): Aug. 2 and 3
  • Milan, Italy (Ippodromo Snai La Maura): Aug. 6
  • Barcelona, Spain (Estadi Olímpic): Aug. 9
  • London, United Kingdom (Wembley Stadium): Aug. 15 and 16
  • Kaohsiung, Taiwan (Kaohsiung National Stadium): Oct. 18 and 19
  • Bangkok, Thailand (Rajamangala National Stadium): Oct. 24 and 26
  • Jakarta, Indonesia (Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium): Nov. 1 and 2
  • Bulacan, Philippines (Philippine Arena): Nov. 22 and 23
  • Singapore (National Stadium): Nov. 29 and 30

2026

  • Tokyo, Japan (Tokyo Dome): Jan. 16 and 18
  • Hong Kong SAR, China (Kai Tak Stadium): Jan. 24 and 25

Tickets will be announced via Live Nation’s website and social media pages for each of the cities on the list. For Southeast Asia stops, pre-sales are happening from June 10 to 12, with the general sale taking place on June 13 for Singapore, Bangkok, and Hong Kong. Bulacan will have its general sale on June 12. More details on ticket prices and fan benefits will be announced soon, so stay tuned!

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Jennie, Rosé, Jisoo, and Lisa have all been busy in the past year pursuing solo projects. Some of their notable releases include Rosé’s first full-length album, “rosie,” which featured her collab hit with Bruno Mars, “APT,” and Jisoo’s solo EP “Amortage” that sparked a new viral dance move with “Earthquake.” 

There’s also Jennie’s debut solo album “ruby,” which featured hit singles “Mantra” and “Like JENNIE,” and performed at Coachella 2025, while Lisa’s debut solo record, “Alter Ego" made waves with singles “Rockstar” and “Moonlit Floor,” which she performed at the comeback show of the Victoria’s Secret fashion show. 

For updates, follow Live Nation on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram. You can also stay tuned for more of BLACKPINK’s music releases and upcoming performances on their Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram pages.

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Asia/ Vibe/ Pop Culture
Asian Film ‘A Simple Accident’ Wins Best Film at 2025 Cannes Film Festival
78th Cannes Photo by Cannes Film Festival/Facebook

Iranian director Jafar Panahi won the Palme d’Or for “A Simple Accident,” besting twenty-one other feature films in the category at the 78th Cannes Film Festival.

Despite the high power outage that happened across the region on Saturday morning (May 24), the festival’s star-studded closing ceremony went on without a hitch. The jury, chaired by French actress Juliette Binoche, along with other distinguished filmmakers, actors, and producers announced the night’s biggest winners, featuring the most outstanding cinematic features of the year. 

Panahi, who has been banned, arrested, and jailed several times in his home country for his provocative features, wins the competition’s top prize. “A Simple Accident” is his first Cannes feature in twenty years, with the 15-year travel ban imposed on him by the Iranian government lifted in 2023. The director previously earned the Best Screenplay Award for “Se Rok (Three Faces)” in 2018. 

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Summarized as “what begins as a minor accident sets in motion a series of escalating consequences,” the winning film portrayed the Iranian people struggling for their freedom and their rebellion in a constrained society. The director received the award from Juliette Binoche and co-presenter Cate Blanchett, and delivered an inspiring message for his fellow Iranians. 

“What's most important now is our country and the freedom of our country," he said. "Let us join forces. No one should dare tell us what kind of clothes we should wear, what we should do, or what we should not do.”

Following the ceremony, director Panahi also shared some of his thoughts after winning the prestigious award. 

“For a filmmaker, every award is a delight. A lot of work has gone into winning this award. At one point, I had so many different images running through my mind. I was thinking about all the faces of my friends who were in prison with me. At that time, we were in prison, but the Iranian people were out on the streets fighting for freedom. Right then, I told myself that I was glad for them."

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Other notable winners of the night include the Grand Prix winner Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value,” Tawfeek Barhom’s “I’m Glad You’re Dead Now,” which won best short film feature, and the “The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo” by Diego Céspedes who earned the top prize in the Un Certain Regard category. 

Here’s a complete list of the festival’s biggest winners:

Feature Films

  • Palme d'Or: “A Simple Accident” - Jafar Panahi
  • Grand Prix: “Sentimental Value” - Joachim TRIER
  • Jury Prize (tied): “Sirât” - Oliver Laxe and "Sound of Falling” – Mascha Schilinski
  • Best Director Award: Kleber Mendonça Filho - “The Secret Agent”
  • Best Screenplay Award: “Young Mothers” - Jean-Pierre Dardenne and Luc Dardenne
  • Best Actress Award: Nadia Melliti – “The Last Girl” by Hafsia Herzi
  • Best Actor Award: Wagner Moura – “The Secret Agent” by Kleber Mendonça Filho
  • Special Award: Kuang Ye Shi Dai - “Resurrection” by Bi GAN

Short Films

  • Palme d'Or:  “I’m Glad You’re Dead Now” - Tawfeek Barhom
  • Special mention: “Ali” by Adnan Al Rajeev 
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Un Certain Regard

  • Un Certain Regard Award: “The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo” - Diego Céspedes, 1st Film
  • Jury Prize: “A Poeta” - Simón Mesa Soto
  • Best Director Award: Arab & Tarzan Nasser – “Once Upon a Time in Gaza
    Best Actor: Frank Dillane – “Urchin” by Harris Dickinson
  • Best Actress: Cleo Diára – “The Laughter and the Knife” – Pedro Pinho
  • Best Screenplay: "Pillion” – Harry Lighton, 1st film

Golden Camera

  • Caméra d'Or: “The President’s Cake” – Hasan Hadi, Filmmakers' Fortnight
  • Special Mention: “My Father’s Shadow” - Akinola Davies Jr., Un Certain Regard

The Cinef

  • First prize: “First Summer” - Heo GAYOUNG, KAFA, South Korea
  • Second prize: “12 Moments Before the Flag-raising Ceremony" – Qu Zhizheng, Beijing Film Academy, China
  • Third Prize (tied): “Ginger Boy” Miki Tanaka, ENBU Seminar, Japan, and “Winter in March” – Natalia Mirzoyan, Estonian Academy of Arts, Estonia 

For more details and updates, visit Cannes Film Festival’s official website or follow Cannes Film Festival on FacebookInstagram, and TikTok

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