The first ever Taiwan Film Festival will be held in the country and will run from Sept. 23-28 at Shangri-La Cineplex Cinema 4. Awaiting avid local moviegoers are the best films from Taiwan.

Also made possible by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines, the Taiwan Film Festival features an impressive line-up of some of today’s must-watch Taiwanese films such as “Cape No. 7” (2008). The biggest box-office hit in Mandarin Chinese history, it is a moving love story that touches on Taiwan’s history and way of life through the story of a young man named Aga who leaves for Taipei in the pursuit of a singing career. Together with other musicians, he becomes part of a band that eventually becomes an incredible musical sensation.

Another film to be shown is “Chocolate Rap” (2006) which centers on the tough world of break dancing through the eyes of dancer Choco.

Under the guidance of a good teacher, Choco steadily climbs the ladder to success – until a car accident changes his life. He then proceeds to teach young dancer King Kong and in the process regains his confidence – but eventually finds himself having to face his young protégé in the biggest battle of his life.

In “Fishing Luck” (2005), three young men called Behong, Jeddah and Qingkuang (dubbed the “Three Musketeers” for their life-long friendship) take the spotlight. One summer day, their lives are changed by the arrival of a woman.

In “Kung Fu Dunk” (2008), basketball takes center stage as it follows the story of youngster Shi Jie, who possesses impressive skills both in kung fu and basketball. Persuaded by a con man to play ball in the university to locate his family, Shi-Jie goes on a journey that will change his life.

Other films to be shown during the film festival are “Orzboyz!” (2008) which chronicles the story of two young pranksters called “Liar No. 1” and “Liar No. 2” who plan the trick of their loves; “Our Island Dreams” (2009) which tells the story of a triangular friendship in the beautiful island of Kinmen; and “Yang Yang” (2009).

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PPL’s 1st grand anniversary party

As expected, PPL Entertainment, Inc.’s first anniversary celebration (at C-3 Party Place in Greenhills) was star-studded – and grand! No wonder Perry Lansigan, the man behind the talent management and marketing group was grinning from ear to ear.

PPL artists were of course present led by Dingdong Dantes, whose successful showbiz career has been handled by Perry for the last 12 years. Also there were the other PPL talents: Jolina Magdangal, Angelika dela Cruz (who came with sister Mika dela Cruz), Gabby and Geoff Eigenmann, Arthur Solinap, Carlo Gonzalez, and Carl Guevara. Among the guest artists present included German Moreno, Ogie Alcasid and Ms. Regine Velasquez, Gina Alajar, Dennis Trillo, Carla Abellana, Sid Lucero, Jonalyn Viray, Mart Escudero, Maricris Garcia, and some GMA-7 execs.

Perry recalled his humble beginnings in the industry, first as a trainee of GMA Network’s production staff, then as writer, floor director, talent coordinator, stage director and eventually as executive producer of several hit shows of the station like “SOP,” and reality shows like “Are You the Next Big Star?” and “Pinoy Idol.”

PPL Entertainment also engages in events planning and coordination, mall and concert productions, public relations, advertising and marketing.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings for Sept. 23, go to Mrs. Socorro Ramos of National Bookstore, Rep. Lynette Punzalan, Jenine Desiderio, Whopsy Zamora, Zenia Co, Grace de Asis Ilagan, Rose S. Vella, Amparito Llamas of Cebu, Avelino P. Basa, Danny Carvajal, Dr. Mariano Co, comedian Kitkat, Johnelle Marie M. Galigaro, Elmer Reyes, Mikee Tanael, and entertainment editor Salve Asis... Belated b-day greetings to Joel Lamangan, Ogee Atos, Carlo Agbuya and Rosalie Bernardo Tafalla (Sept. 21)… Catch pop/rock band Kenyo every Wednesday at Hard Rock Café (HRC) as it leads a talented pack of young and fresh rockers in HRC’s “Rock Republic.” “Rock Republic” showcases the music of up and coming bands as they perform with Kenyo on HRC’s historic and legendary stage. Other featured performers at HRC are Streetbeat (Sept. 27), Area One (Sept. 28), Drizzle with DNA (Sept. 23, 25, and 30), Freestyle back-to-back with Silk (Sept. 24), Nyoy Volante (Sept. 25), and Zoo (Sept. 26). All shows start at 9:30 p.m.