Author Archives: Jacob Walker

Case Number 1994: Warner’s ‘Drunken Master 2’ Blu-ray

Drunken Master 2 has finally received a worthy release on Blu-ray courtesy of Warner Bros., with its Warner Archive Collection release, finally restoring the Cantonese version uncut. It now feels like the right time to examine this film in the cold light of day, as it has split opinion with Kung Fu and Jackie enthusiasts, ever since grainy versions were available on pirate VHS in the mid ‘90s. Is this … Continue reading

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Flowers of War, The (2011) Review

"Flowers of War" Theatrical Poster

Director: Zhang Yimou Writer: Liu Heng, Geling Yan Cast: Christian Bale, Ni Ni, Zhang Xinyi, Tong Dawei, Atsuro Watabe, Shigeo Kobayashi, Cao Kefan Running Time: 146 min. By Jacob Walker Zhang Yimou’s underrated war film; 2011’s The Flowers of War, provides a timely reminder that even though we are living through uncertain times, as a species we have experienced and survived much worse. Through urban warfare, the 20th century represented … Continue reading

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COF Presents: The Appeal of Steven Seagal

Seagal and Sharon Stone in Above the Law.

Steven Seagal is something of an enigma, as his behaviour becomes increasingly bizarre and his claims more outlandish, he has become a joke. His bloated appearance and penchant for long coats make him a figure of fun, but the many claims of sexual harassment laid against him, means the joke is starting to wear thin. We all laughed when he famously stated that he is a reincarnation of a Buddhist … Continue reading

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COF Presents: The Legend of the The Seven Little Fortunes

Jackie Chan and Yu Jim-Yuen.

There are many defining moments in the history of cinema, in relation to martial arts, Bruce Lee is still seen as a pioneer and the most famous actor to emerge from Hong Kong. Amazingly influential as he was, especially off screen in relation to the world of MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) – now a billion dollar business in the shape of the UFC, he only made 4 and a half … Continue reading

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COF Presents: How Korea Turned Suffering Into Art

Korea is obsessed with suffering. That is a strong statement but one that is justifiable if you are a fan of South Korean cinema. North Korean cinema could indeed be the subject of its own article with both Kim Jong-un and his father being huge cinephiles, but the films are hard to find and my knowledge of its intricacies is lacking, so I will just stick to the cinema of … Continue reading

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