If there’s anything I’ve learned about attending major events in pop culture and documenting my time there through writing, it’s that you should never underestimate the power of showing up. One minute, you’re scrambling to find the perfect poses for your first time at a remote-controlled photo booth. And before you know it, you’re singing your heart out to Billie Eilish’s greatest hits with your newfound friends.
This was only a fraction of the total awesomeness that unfolded on May 4, 2026, at the special screening of Billie’s highly anticipated concert film, Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live in 3D).
Photo: Paramount Pictures International
I went into the movie with little to no expectations, as a casual listener who has primarily learned about Billie’s music through online covers and award-winning films. Needless to say, it didn’t take long before she drew me into her headstrong, unabashed world, marking the start of my new chapter as her fan.
Together with James Cameron, the award-winning director of Titanic and the Avatar franchise, Billie brought a masterpiece to fruition that wasn’t just a cinematic concert but an immersive experience that fans of all ages could get behind. My wonderful seatmates at the theater, whom I’ll remember whenever Billie’s “Birds of a Feather” plays from now on, made my time at the screening all the more worthwhile.
If you want a full concert experience from the comfort of your local theater that’s worth every peso, then look no further than the Hit Me Hard and Soft concert film. Here’s what went down at the unforgettable screening, as well as why every fan of hers, old and new, should watch it while they still can:
Billie’s Colorful Journey, at Full Brightness
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I couldn’t have asked for a better entry point to Billie’s artistry than the Hit Me Hard and Soft concert movie. If you already appreciate her music and aren’t afraid to show it, then you’re bound to leave the theater with a million more reasons to fall in love with her captivating sound.
Billie poured her heart, soul, and every ounce of creativity she could muster into the set list for her sold-out world tour. The whole cinema erupted with cheers as we sang and danced, with moments ranging from absolute pandemonium to intimate, heartfelt numbers. Count on Billie to still find moments of calmness and quiet, even amid a crowd of thousands.
Absolute Movie (and Music) Magic
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When Billie sings, the whole world stops to listen. And just like every fan who came out to see her in person, the cinema was alight with uproarious cheer upon hearing elevated renditions of the pop star’s songs that we’ve put on repeat since their release dates.
Billie’s music tells stories and harbors emotions that are uniquely hers. She cranks up the feels in concert, adding unique arrangements and accompaniments with her team for an all-out experience that’s best shared with your friends and fellow music lovers. Each segment in Billie’s set list came together for standout moments that highlighted her artistry, including:
- An intimate rendition of “When the Party’s Over,” where the crowd went silent to let their emotions flow through them,
- No-holds-barred dance parties to “Bad Guy” and “Therefore I Am,”
- The BRAT-tastic special effects during “Guess,” Billie’s collaboration with Charli XCX,
- The generational hit “What Was I Made For?,” where there were no dry eyes in the crowd to be found, and
- Billie ending her concert with a bang with the cathartic, soul-bearing “Happier Than Ever.”
An Ode to Sentimentality
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Billie’s inspiring life story is at the heart of her unapologetic concert film. You can’t help but root for her upon learning about her struggles and humble beginnings, which she reminisces on in between songs. Fans also chime in throughout the movie, sharing how Billie has positively impacted their lives and helped them rise above their own rough patches.
You’ll also find yourself smiling over the tender moments that Billie shares with her band and her ever-supportive brother, Finneas.
A Night Like No Other
I’ve never been to a major artist’s jam-packed show before, but Billie’s concert movie is pretty damn close.
The screening opened me up to a whirlwind of firsts—from trying a remote-controlled photo booth at the red carpet, to sharing the movie house with celebrities like Niana Guerrero and Jarren Garcia, as well as social media personalities such as Zendee and Jepitot, and most notably, nearly losing my voice as I joined a massive in-house mosh pit.
I seldom join large crowds. Their energy easily overwhelms me, and I’d much rather have fun from afar or in the comfort of my room. That’s why I couldn’t be more grateful for the friends I made at the cinema (you know who you are), whom I could trust enough to let loose and appreciate the concert film as it was intended. We partied, held hands, and lost our minds as if we were VIP ticket-holders, and I couldn’t have had it any other way.
You can sing and dance along to Billie Eilish’s Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live in 3D) exclusively in SM Cinemas.
ALSO READ: 5 Seconds of Summer Live in Manila 2026: Ticket Prices and Seat Plan Announced
What are your favorite songs by Billie Eilish? Share your picks with us in the comments below!
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