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Maureen Wroblewitz for AsNTM S5: Are the Spoilers for Real?

Posted by Norman on June 19, 2017
Posted in: 1 Pageant Pages, 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , .

Show of hands: Did Maureen really win Asia’s Next Top Model S5?


The rumors are not just hushed talks.

Most everyone I know (at least those who follow the program on Star World) is nagging me if Maureen Wroblewitz of the Philippines has finally won the country’s first-ever top place finish in Season 5 of Asia’s Next Top Model.

Truly, I cannot give a definitive answer to the question for two (2) good reasons:

courtesy of AsNTM

1) I did receive sound-offs from at least two sources that the Philippines won (as Season 5 has completed filming many weeks back) but without valid photo proof and only unbridled persistence that she indeed finished as #1, I can only take the claims as possible hype to raise the unified interest of Philippine viewers to watch the remaining episodes and jack up the ratings.

2) If I indeed hold factual information that Maureen surpassed the efforts of all previous Filipinas who came soooo close to victory, then I wouldn’t want to spoil the excitement in deference to the request of the producers to withold any major spoiler. Even if I was not personally hooked up by their media people for Season 5, I still respect the efforts of the show to build up a proper momentum for the finale.


Be that as it may, the last two episodes have been really telling. In favor of a possible Maureen victory, that is. But let’s take spoiler quips from all over with a grain of salt and watch till the end to see if they will hold water.

Here is a video of one of the “leaked claims“.

courtesy of Showbiz Nest Video

Alaiza Malinao: The girl who can’t lie

Posted by Norman on April 5, 2016
Posted in: 1 Pageant Pages, 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , .

 

The Kenneth Tangonan shot of Alaiza Malinao above – taken during a fun shoot – is perfect for this blog post

 
When Alaiza Malinao was cornered by host Cindy Bishop to give up her spot on Episode 4 of Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 4 in favor of the second weakest performer in a double elimination, I was disappointed to say the least. Yes, I know that you put in all the make-believe drama you can squeeze in a reality show. But the manner by which one of our bets (who finished in the Top 3 of the Subaru challenge) was very sneakily eyed to just throw in the towel and save the one who was supposed to be booted out? It really left a bad taste in the mouth.

This reminded me of the rumored reason of her departure that was “floated” months back. Some alleged “reliable sources” were saying that Alaiza backed out because she could no longer stand the attitude of Sang-In of Korea who shouted at her and all. But lo and behold, that turned out to be false.

Watch Episode 4 all over again.

courtesy of Stevan Ignasius
Alaiza really can’t lie with the trappings of a filmed reality program and all. By now, she has first-hand experience as to how the edits are made to show a more “pleasurable” and ratings-friendly final cut. And curiously enough, her “real” nature was utilized by the show up to the fourth episode’s final shot. That, in my opinion, was the only genuine bit, tears and red eyes included.

And the “harsh reprimand” Sang-In got from Glenn Tan during the judging? Methinks that it was planned along for an episode moment. After all, giving away a brand-new Subaru for the top winner is already a pricey sponsorship.

Anyways, tomorrow night will be Episode 5 of AsNTM C4 on Star World. Who’s excited to watch? 😉

Sunday Specials: 14 for Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 4

Posted by Norman on February 14, 2016
Posted in: 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , .

Cycle 4 will premiere on March 9 only on Star World

  
  
  
Happy Valentine’s Day!

I now present to you the fourteen (14) contenders for Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 4 are photo-blogged here. The show will premiere on March 9 only on Star World.

Who will win or be just plain drama queen? 🙂

Check out their high-resolution individual images below.
 

Alaiza (Philippines)

 
 

Aldilla (Indonesia)

 
 

Angie (Singapore)


 

Gwen (Philippines)

 
 

Jessica (Hong Kong)

 
 

Julian (Philippines)


 

Mai-Ngo (Vietnam)

  
 

May (Myanmar)

 
 

Maya (Thailand)

 
 

Patricia (Indonesia)

 
 

Sang-in (Korea)

 
 

Tugs (Mongolia)

 
 

Tuti (Malaysia)

 
 

Tawan (Thailand)

 

Asia’s Next Top Model S4: Georgina out, Cindy in

Posted by Norman on December 10, 2015
Posted in: 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , , , , .

Left-to-right: Yu Tsai, Cindy Bishop and Kelly Tandiono for Season 4 of Asia's Next Top Model

Left-to-right: Yu Tsai, Cindy Bishop and Kelly Tandiono for Season 4 of Asia’s Next Top Model

Cindy Bishop will host Season 4 of Asia's Next Top Model

Cindy Bishop will host Season 4 of Asia’s Next Top Model

Call her Cynthia Carmen Burbridge-Bishop or Cindy Sirinya or Sirinya Burbridge. Or better yet, just plain Cindy Bishop. She was Miss Thailand World 1996. And she will be the new host of Asia’s Next Top Model Season 4, and had effectively taken over the role of Georgina Wilson who commanded Season 3 of the popular cable show.

By the first half of 2016, Asia’s Next Top Model Season 4 will start airing on Star World. And once more, the producers have invited me to be part of the AsNTM Insiders Program for yet another stab at the latest.

Joining Cindy in the fold is Supermodel Kelly Tandiono and famous photographer Yu Tsai (you all remember him in America’s Next Top Model, right?). It could only mean that our favorite Joey Mead King is out as well.

Well hold your horses for now and read their Press Release for Season 4.

The highly-rated reality competition series Asia’s Next Top Model (AsNTM) on StarWorld, FOX International Channels’ (FIC) leading TV entertainment destination for chic and stylish women, is back with season 4. Filming has begun with a talented celebrity cast, consisting of Cindy Bishop as host, Kelly Tandiono as model mentor and Yu Tsai as Creative Director. In addition to mentoring and helping the new group of contestants grow into world-class modelling professionals, the three celebrities will make up the judging panel each week along with renowned guest judges throughout the season.

With over 20 years experience in the modelling and entertainment industry, Cindy is set to bring a new level of expertise, energy and glamour to the show as this season’s host. Originally from Thailand, Cindy was the 1996 winner of Miss Thailand World. Since then, the versitle 5’10” actress and model has dominated the fashion and media scene, gracing covers of magazines and runways as well has film and television screens across Asia. She has been the face of numerous prominent global brands; was a top VJ for Channel [V], Asia’s leading music channel; and is one of the most sought-after hosts in the region for both live events and television. Cindy has also starred in many local movies and television dramas, such Gossip Girl Thailand and The O.C. Thailand based on the popular US series, and has a role in the upcoming Hollywood film All I See is You set to come out in 2016.

The stylish and acclaimed model Kelly Tandiono will serve the role of mentor for this season, helping the contestants prepare physically, mentally and emotionally for the tough competition and career challenges ahead. Her talent and experience in film will help the contestants bring drama to their signature runway looks and nail acting challenges. Kelly has won a variety of different modelling awards, including being named the Prestige’s “It Girl” 2013, The Style Makers Award 2012, and Elle Magazine Model of the Year 2011. In addition to her modelling credentials, Kelly has successfully expanded her career onto the silver screen, having been named Best Actress at the Royal Bali International Film Festival in 2014.

Famed photographer and director Yu Tsai will serve as Creative Director this season, bringing with him international experience and his discerning taste for high fashion. Yu Tsai’s career sits at the top of fashion game, having been creative consultant on America’s Next Top Model Cycles 20, 21 and 22 as well as having photographed an extensive list of A-list celebrities, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Anne Hathaway, Katy Perry and Sarah Jessica Parker. His eye for potential and talent coupled with his signature “tough love” personality will undoubtedly push this season’s model hopefuls to bring out their best in the competition.

Commenting on this season’s cast, Sam Gollestani, FOX International Channels’ Executive Producer of Asia’s Next Top Model said, “Between Cindy, Kelly and Yu Tsai, the experience and expertise they collectively bring to the table are without a doubt going to push this new season of Asia’s Next Top Model up another level. Not only will their extensive knowledge help transform our contestants like we have never seen before, but they are each highly captivating on-air personalities and have fascinating backstories themselves. I can’t wait for AsNTM fans to get to know them and to share the stories of their journeys alongside our contestants’.”

Asia’s Next Top Model Season 4 will premiere on StarWorld Asia in the first half of 2016. For news about the show, including when Season 4’s contestants will be revealed, please visit http://www.asias-next-top-model.com/ and follow AsNTM on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The Finale: Place Your Bets on Asia’s Next Top Model S3

Posted by Norman on June 17, 2015
Posted in: 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , , .

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Who will follow Jessica of Season 1 and Sheena of Season 2?

asntm3a Tonight is the night when Asia’s Next Top Model S3 will be finally known after months of weekly challenges and eliminations that left only three (3) contenders in the hunt for the victory. Only one among Ayu Gani of Indonesia, Monika Sta. Maria of the Philippines and Aimee Rose Cheng-Bradshaw of Singapore will have the honor of becoming this season’s top placer – the Asian model who will drive home a brand-new Subaru XV STI, become the cover of Harper’s Bazaar Singapore and land a contract with Storm Models of London. Spoilers have flooded the internet weeks before the finale. But then again, you will need to watch the show to find out if prior buzz is indeed true.

So tune in to Star World at 8:45PM to witness everything.

asntm41

Here’s the promo teaser:

AsNTM S3: And then there were four

Posted by Norman on June 10, 2015
Posted in: 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , , , , .

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Asia's Next Top Model S3 Top 4 (left to right): Monika, Aimee, Gani and Barbara

asntm3a Episode 11 of Asia’s Next Top Model S3 was an hour filled with a series of one-on-ones when host Georgina Wilson and mentor Joey Mead King took turns in personally interviewing the final four (Monika, Aimee, Barbara and Gani) and revealing some never-before-heard details from each one of them. If you missed this one, click HERE.

Amanda was eliminated right before the Top 4.

Amanda was eliminated right before the Top 4.

Did you know that Gani was bullied as a kid? Yes she was. And about Aimee’s weight gain during the show? She really couldn’t care less. At least not during taping because she knows it is impossible to lose the pounds in so short a time. Barbara and Monika also had their share of issues, but it was the latter’s pick of Ayu (her ‘nemesis’ in the model house) as potential winner (other than herself) that somehow gave viewers an idea of how her personality works.

Tonight, the Top 4 will go to their important go-sees/castings with three different Singapore-based clients/brands (Pois Boutique, Braun Buffel and Triumph) to see who will get the most number of bookings. They will also get their crucial Harper’s Bazaar photoshoot with Kenneth Goh.

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The Top 4 during the lengthy judges' deliberation you will see tonight

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Sneak pics of the Harper's Bazaar photoshoot (All images courtesy of Asia's Next Top Model Insiders Program)

Here’s the teaser for Episode 12:

courtesy of AsNTM

The Cliffhanger Episode of Asia’s Next Top Model S3

Posted by Norman on June 3, 2015
Posted in: 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , , , , , .

Monika in a screenshot of her winning motion editorial for Subaru

Monika in a screenshot of her winning motion editorial for Subaru

asntm3a Episode 10 of Asia’s Next Top Model S3 had the remaining five (5) contestants go through their first motion editorial for Subaru. And you need not guess who won that challenge. Monika was in her best elements (watch her segment in the video below) and did not disappoint the client. She went straight to Top 4.

courtesy of AsNTM

The Top 5 pose for the camera before becoming just a Top 4. Who will be eliminated next?

The Top 5 pose for the camera before becoming just a Top 4. Who will be eliminated next?

Will Amanda be the next to go?

Will Amanda be the next to go?

But the more interesting part last week was the cliffhanger of an ending when the show was cut off (“To Be Continued“) just before host Georgina Wilson was about to announce who will be eliminated between Amanda and Barbara.

By now, you must have already a good feel on who got the boot. But are you really sure she’s the one?

Below is a teaser for Episode 11 of Asia’s Next Top Model where the fourth member of the quartet is nowhere to be seen (talk about extending the suspense).

courtesy of AsNTM

asntmbanner Watch Asia’s Next Top Model S3 on Star World tonight at 8:45PM. We’re so close to the finals that you simply can’t afford to miss this one. 😉

Amanda got suspended. And won Best Photo.

Posted by Norman on May 27, 2015
Posted in: 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , , , .

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Amanda was suspended in the air for the photoshoot challenge. And got Best Photo in the process.

asntm3a In Episode 9 of Asia’s Next Top Model S3, the remaining six ladies were brought to a gym where they met up with some Mixed Martial Artists who gave them a crash course on how to build up their core and strengthen their limbs. But this was just a prelude to their first challenge which required doing cool movements on a suspended steel ring which was initially tough for most. But after being told that the prize was a spa treatment at Sofitel So Sentosa, everyone started to become very competitive. Barbara and Aimee were really fueled to do well. But it was the Japanese who showed more strength and style. She won the reward and brought Gani along. The remaining girls did their own home spa activity at the models’ house which isolated Tahlia who is not chummy with the tight group of Monika, Aimee and Amanda.

For the main photoshoot challenge, Creative Director Alex Perry provided his long, flowy gowns tailor-made for a fantasy theme where each one of the contenders were put in harness and suspended in mid-air while doing their best to strike best poses for Jez Smith. Barbara and Monika did better than expected. Aimee played it safe, but still got good snaps. Indonesians Gani and Tahlia failed in their turns and disappointed the team. Surprisingly, Amanda saved her best for last, as she expertly moved in her red dress and totally impressed everyone, including a delightfully screaming Joey.

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Amanda's Best Photo for Episode 9, her second so far.

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The photo that got Tahlia eliminated

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A sneak pic of Gani for Ep10

During the judging, host Georgina Wilson had Joey, Alex, Jez and Kenneth Goh in the panel. Gani and Tahlia got bottom two as expected. Amanda won Best Photo to her almost expected surprise because of the glowing feedbacks. Monika was named runner-up. Barbara was called next, before Aimee escaped the cellar positions. Tahlia got eliminated. Gani got a second lease in life.

The minute-video below shows the Top 5 with their respective pitches and catchlines to win the competition.

courtesy of AsNTM

And here is the sneak peek into Episode 10.

courtesy of AsNTM

Behind the scenes of Asia’s Next Top Model S3: The Early Episodes

Posted by Norman on May 23, 2015
Posted in: 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , .

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Never before seen photos of Asia's Next Top Model S3 during the first few episodes

videos courtesy of AsNTM

How the ladies look like in between judging takes

How the ladies look like in between judging takes

In this post, I am sharing a bunch of never-before-seen photos taken during the filming of the early episodes of Asia’s Next Top Model Season 3. You’ll be particularly amused at how the ladies rest their tired feet (left photo) in between takes during the judging part.

I also decided to include two (2) BTS videos of the program which were taken for one of its main sponsors – Close-Up Diamond Attraction – where the competitors and mentors (Joey Mead King and Alex Perry) spoke about smiling in front of the camera and how it can be the best accessory of any aspiring model.

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More never-before-seen photos from Episodes 1 and 2

And while we’re at it, here’s the teaser for Episode 10 where the remaining five (5) girls – Barbara, Monika, Amanda, Gani and Aimee – will get to do their first AsNTM TV commercials.

courtesy of AsNTM

We’re nearing the homestretch. The winner of Asia’s Next Top Model Season3 will be known in just a few weeks from now! 😉

Click above to watch all the unaired special vids of Asia's Next Top Model S3.

Click above to watch all the unaired special vids of Asia’s Next Top Model S3.

A scare & a win for Tahlia and an immunity for Monika

Posted by Norman on May 20, 2015
Posted in: 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , .

Tahlia of Indonesia won Best Photo during Episode 8 of Asia's Next Top Model Season 3

Tahlia of Indonesia won Best Photo during Episode 8 of Asia’s Next Top Model Season 3

asntm3a It was both a scare and a win for Tahlia of Indonesia during Episode 8 of Asia’s Next Top Model Season 3 when she had to undergo extensive check-up for lumps in her breast (which were mercifully benign) as well as performing well during the photoshoot en route to getting the week’s Best Photo. If you failed to watch, here’s the LINK.

The hair challenge during the 1st half of the episode saw our Monika being picked as winner and getting immunity from elimination. And while we had full confidence in her ability to lead the way once more, she almost actually got to use that immunity because her photo in motion did not impress the judges – particularly Australian photographer Jez Smith -so much that she only ranked 5th towards the end.

Monika's photo which was seen as blah by the judges

Monika’s photo which was seen as blah by the judges

KB of HK submitted the worst photo and was eliminated

KB of HK submitted the worst photo and was eliminated

Episode 9 will be quite physically challenging for all the remaining girls as they will be hoisted up in the air in harness and make their poses while floating more believable while wearing the fab creations of Alex Perry. The preview makes Gani look like the one in trouble, but I seriously doubt that she will go next.imageHere’s the teaser for Episode 9: