Legend of the zoo warrior? New Poster Jackie Chan’s ‘Panda Plan’ from ‘Song of Youth’ director Zhang Luan

"Panda Plan" Theatrical Poster

“Panda Plan” Theatrical Poster

Martial arts superstar Jackie Chan (Hidden Strike, Ride On) is headed to the zoo with Panda Plan (aka Project P), Mandarin Motion Pictures’ upcoming film directed by Zhang Luan (Song of YouthGive Me Five). If you’re into the action-comedy genre, this one will make you win all the money you want, as if you were using a BetWinner verifier coupon.

The film centers on a rare baby panda with a dark circle around just one eye, who becomes a worldwide sensation when he’s born at China’s Noah Zoo. But when a Middle Eastern tycoon dispatches international mercenaries to kidnap the zoo’s baby pandas, Chan, playing a version of himself as an international action star, is forced to get involved in a rescue mission (via THR).

Panda Plan also stars Shi Ce (Hi, Mom), Wei Xiang (Full River Red), Han Continue reading

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Killer, The (2024) Review

"The Killer" International Poster

“The Killer” International Poster

Director: John Woo
Cast: Omar Sy, Nathalie Emmanuel, Diana Silvers, Sam Worthington, Eric Cantona, Aurélia Agel, Tchéky Karyo, Saïd Taghmaoui, Angeles Woo
Running Time: 126 min.

By Paul Bramhall 

Chances are if you’re a fan of Hong Kong action cinema, then John Woo’s 1989 classic The Killer is part of the reason why. In the 35 years since there’s been multiple attempts at a Hollywood remake – in the 1990’s Richard Gere and Denzel Washington were frequently attached to a script penned by Walter Hill and David Gilder. In the early 2010’s Jung Woo-sung was set to make his English language debut in a version helmed by John H. Lee planned to be shot in 3D. Then in the mid-2010’s John Woo expressed his own desire to direct the remake, one which was eventually slated to star Lupita Nyong’o, however the COVID-19 pandemic put the project on ice. The one common factor each failed attempt shared was a collective sigh of relief from the originals loyal fanbase, with the general consensus being that it was one of those movies that should be left alone.

However Hollywood doesn’t work that way, so in 2024 the remake eventually hit the screens – the screens of Peacock subscribers to be precise, which for those living outside of the U.S. (which includes myself), is a U.S. only streaming service. It was an unceremonious release, not only skipping cinemas, but arriving on a platform that has just 34 million subscribers, a number that Netflix’s global reach of 277 million dwarfs in comparison. However, it does have John Woo Continue reading

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Donnie Yen, Jackie Chan, Chin Siu Ho and more king of fighters! Here what’s on Hi-YAH for the month of September

Hi-YAH!, Well Go USA’s very own Asian/martial arts streaming channel has just announced their New Releases for the month of September.

If you want to give Hi-YAH! a go, visitors of this site can use the promo code “CITYONFIRE” for a FREE 30 Day trial!

Read on for the full list of New and Exclusive Continue reading

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The Economics of Sports Betting: How It Affects the Sports Industry

Betting on sports has changed from being a rare practice into a worldwide business that generates billions of dollars and impacts the sports industry. With the ever-expanding legalization of sports betting around the states and countries, the effects of sports betting on leagues, teams and fans are starting to be seen. This article looks at how sports betting has impacted the sports industry.

The Rise of Legalized Sports Betting

The legalization of sports betting has been one of the key drivers of growth in the global sports business. In the United States, the PASPA Act was nullified in the year 2018 thereby enabling the various states of the country to come up with their laws on sports betting. This led to an eruption of both online and in-person sports betting markets where billions of dollars are earned in a year. Internationally, sports betting has been popular for many years in such countries as the UK, Australia and European countries, with the mobile application, Betway app further enhancing the experience.

As the online and mobile sports betting platforms continue to be enhanced, players have continued to embrace apps such as the Betway app. These platforms will provide the user with fast and convenient access to the betting markets of different sports, thus allowing the user to support their preferred team with just a single touch. The advancement in technology especially in the aspect of mobile betting has helped in increasing the number of players thus growing the industry even more.

Revenue Generation for Leagues and Teams

Perhaps the most straightforward economic effect of sports betting is the money that it brings into sports leagues and teams. Sports betting firms have entered into agreements with leagues thus providing them with sponsorship and advertising profits. Most of the leagues such as the NFL, NBA and EPL have signed big deals with betting companies and many of these companies offer live odds or betting markets linked with the games of these leagues.

Fan Engagement and Increased Viewership

Sports betting especially through the use of apps such as the Betway app has changed how the fan engages with the sport. In the past, only spectators used to watch and enjoy the games but now they have a chance to place a bet and thus become more involved in the game. This creates a higher level of interest because when people are betting on the games, they will watch the entire match.

Some of the services that can be found on such apps, enable the users to place their bets during the progress of the games. This real-time interaction improves fan engagement and increases the fan’s affinity with the sport they are watching. The findings also indicate that bettors are more likely to watch games closely, consume more sports content and be active during a season thus increasing advertising revenue for sports broadcasters and leagues.

Economic Boost for Local Economies

Apart from the advantage that sports betting has in sports organizations, it also plays a very crucial role in boosting the economy of a local area. It has been estimated that legalized betting systems are a good source of income and the money generated can be used for the welfare of the people or development needs such as education and infrastructure. Some of the states that have embraced the idea of legalizing sports betting have noted increased revenues in their coffers including New Jersey and Pennsylvania in the U.S.

Impact on Sports Media and Broadcasting

It has brought a big change to the coverage of sports through media especially with the integration of sports betting. This has led to the integration of betting content in the networks; from the pre-match betting lines to in-game betting updates. Some of the platforms, including the Betway app, have increased their reach by providing live coverage of events coupled with betting odds in real time, thus enhancing the users’ experience.

Sports betting content is now a significant part of sports media with shows, podcasts and live streams which assist the bettors. These advancements have also led to the generation of new revenue streams for broadcasters, leagues as well as betting companies in addition to contributing to the rise in viewership of live sporting activities.

The Future of Sports Betting and Its Long-Term Economic Impact

Moving forward, the sports betting industry is projected to sustain its growth, with mobile applications such as the Betway app being the main driver of this growth. More states and countries legalizing betting will mean more people will join in thus causing a positive impact to the sports industry financially. Further, technological enhancements in the forms of artificial intelligence for odds-making and virtual sports betting are set to revolutionize the industry and enhance fan and bettor interaction.

However, the problem of how to maintain economic growth while at the same time meeting ethical standards will still be a major issue. The regulation authorities and the betting firms have a responsibility to promote responsible gambling and be open to avoiding vices that can taint the sports.

Conclusion

Sports betting economics have come in to alter the dynamics of the sports business, especially through revenue generation, fan participation and the positive impact on the economy of the regions where such bets are placed. Balanced and proper management as well as the development of new ideas and concepts will make sure that sports betting remains an economic opportunity while at the same time making sure that there is fairness for everyone involved.

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Expecting Chuck Norris? Vinegar Syndrome announces Blu-ray for the 1990 Hong Kong film ‘An Eye for an Eye’

An Eye for an Eye | Blu-ray (Vinegar Syndrome)

An Eye for an Eye | Blu-ray (Vinegar Syndrome)

This month, Vinegar Syndrome is releasing the Blu-ray for An Eye for an Eye, a 1990 Hong Kong thriller from director O Sing-Pui (1987’s Golden Swallow).

Note: Upon its initial theatrical release, An Eye for an Eye was given a Cat IIB rating (“Not Suitable for Young Persons and Children”), but Vinegar Syndrome is releasing the director’s cut, which technically brings the film to a Cat III (“No persons younger than 18 years of age are permitted to rent, purchase, or watch this film in the cinema”) rated title.

This film stars Joey Wang (City Hunter), John Ching (Return to a Better Tomorrow), Ricky Wong Chun-Tong (Gangs), Hiu-Hung Fong (Handsome Siblings), Chi Shing Fung (Dragon in Jail), Wilson Continue reading

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Sex and Zen | Blu-ray (88 Films)

Sex and Zen | Blu-ray (88 Films)

Sex and Zen | Blu-ray (88 Films)

RELEASE DATE: December 16, 2024

On December 16, 2024, 88 Films will be releasing the Blu-ray for Sex and Zen, a 1991 cult comedy Hong Kong film from director Michael Mak Tong Kit (Long Arm of the Law 2) that stars Lawrence Ng Kai Wah (To Be Number One) and Amy Yip Chi May (Miracles).

“Banned for 400 years!” screamed the original poster and you can see why as this erotic comedy is brilliantly bizarre, pretty sleazy and downright weird. Also known as The Carnal Prayer Mat’s Stash of Illicit Love and slightly based on the seventeenth century novel The Carnel Prayer Mat, we follow a desperate man who is convinced by his mentor that he needs to be “well equipped” to pleasure his wife, so he has a horses appendage transplanted onto him! From here on in it gets really Continue reading

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That’s why they call it blood-spurt, kid! Blu-ray for Tai Kato’s 1966 thriller ‘Tokijiro: Lone Yakuza’ now available

Tokijiro: Lone Yakuza | Blu-ray (Radiance)

Tokijiro: Lone Yakuza | Blu-ray (Radiance)

Now shipping from Goodie Emporium is Radiance Film’s Blu-ray for Tokijiro: Lone Yakuza (Region A/B), a 1966 Japanese thriller from director Tai Kato (I, the Executioner).

Weary of the rigid codes of the underworld, gambler Tokijiro (Kinnosuke Nakamura, Goyokin) wanders Japan in search of freedom. But escape proves to be impossible when an obligation to a gang boss leaves him with no choice but to kill a man. To atone for his crime, he vows to take care of his victim’s widow and young son. But the gang won’t rest until they’ve killed the entire family – including the man who stands in their way.

With this breathtakingly stylised film, Tai Kato broke all the conventions Continue reading

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How Does Playing Online Games Affect Your Brain

How Does Playing Online Games Affect Your Brain

How Does Playing Online Games Affect Your Brain

Nowadays, people of various age groups tend to spend quite a considerable amount of time over online gaming during their leisure hours. Online computer games can vary from time-wasting puzzles to deeply engaging multiplayer action games. 

But the question is: what exactly goes on in the brain during an online gaming session? The negative and positive impacts differ with the game type and also its time frame.

Positive Cognitive Effects of Online Gaming

Among many, one of the biggest advantages of online gaming is improving cognitive skills. The games that include strategy, thinking, and quick problem-solving skills sharpen up the brain. For example, puzzle games develop the memory and spatial awareness of a person. 

To become a master at it, the players have to remember exercises for the brain similar to those in conventional brain-training exercises.

On the other hand, action video games are believed to enhance hand-eye coordination and reaction times. Most of these games require quick decisions to overcome some challenges; thus, they enhance one’s speed in processing information. 

Studies have indicated that frequent gamers sometimes achieve higher standards in reaction and multitasking compared to their peers who are non-gamers.

Social Interaction and Online Gaming

Contrary to the stereotype of the lonely gamer, online games can be social. Online gaming could be done cooperatively, such as role-playing, or competitively, such as opposed play at a card game. This can provide opportunities for socialization, especially for those who may be shy or introverted. 

While working together to accomplish a common goal, players can develop social bonds and friendships that might endure beyond the game. Furthermore, you can Visit Tiranga Game, where you can explore mentally challenging color prediction games. Here you also had a chance to win some real money which would help you financially.

However, not all online gaming social interactions are positive. Anonymity online, for what it’s worth, invites toxic behavior, harassment, and bullying. This greatly feeds back negatively to mental health, which causes stress, anxiety, and even depression. 

Emotional Significance of Online Gaming

While online gaming has mentally stimulating elements to it, the practice has an equal emotional impact. Games are designed in such a way as to keep high emotions running, either as triumphant regard for victory or frustrated states of defeat. Association with the sensation of satisfaction can further give motivation to go on further.

However, this could also be the source of addiction. The rewarding circle in a game would make participants feel necessary to continue playing the game even if it is to the detriment of other activities. This addiction can lead to detrimental effects such as increasing stress, and anxiety, and decreasing social contact in real life.

The Danger of Overuse

Like everything in this world, online gaming should be done in moderation. Too much gaming will result in detrimental mental and physical consequences. Eyes ache from continuous streaming; bad posture can be achieved, and sleep patterns are ruined as well. Mentally, it results in a short-span attention span that lowers problem-solving skills in real life.

A balance between gaming and other activities will have to be created if these risks are to be avoided. Breaks, physical exercise, and interaction in social circles away from gaming can keep the otherwise harmful effects of the habit at bay.

Conclusion

Online gaming has a powerful effect on the brain. No matter how significant these cognitive and social benefits of this activity may be, it is equally significant to keep in mind the possible side effects. Moderation and awareness go together to keep the activity positive and rewarding.

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Deal on Fire! Pound of Flesh | Blu-ray | Only $9.96 – Expires soon!

Pound of Flesh | Blu-ray & DVD (Entertainment One)

Pound of Flesh | Blu-ray & DVD (Entertainment One)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for Pound of Flesh, a 2015 thriller directed by Ernie Barbarash (Abduction, Assassination Games).

In Pound of Flesh (read our review), a man’s (Jean-Claude Van Damme, Double Impact, The Bouncer) heroic attempt to help a woman in distress ends up with him waking up the next day without a kidney and plotting his revenge.

The film co-stars Kristopher Van Varenberg (Enemies Closer), Darren Shahlavi (Tai Chi Boxer, Techno Warriors), John Ralston (Degrassi The Next Generation), William B Davis (The X-Files), Charlotte Peters, as well as Mike Leeder (Ultimate Justice) getting a taste of JCVD’s secret weapon: his trademark Continue reading

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Just Beat it! ‘Hana-bi’ and ‘Outrage’ star Takeshi Kitano returns for more ultra-violence with ‘Broken Rage’

"Broken Rage" Teaser Poster

“Broken Rage” Teaser Poster

The legendary, multi-talented Japanese celebrity Takeshi Kitano (Outrage Coda, Battle Royale, Hana-Bi) is heading back to bloodshed with Amazon MGM Studios’ Broken Rage, an upcoming thriller he not only directs, but also stars in.

The first half of Broken Rage follows a hitman, Nezumi (Kitano), fighting for his survival when he’s caught between the police and yakuza. But in the second half, the gritty crime-action thriller takes an unexpected turn, evolving into a self-parodying comedy that retells the same story with a captivatingly humorous touch (via FCS).

The film also stars Tadanobu Asano (Kate), Nao Omori (R100), Shidō Nakamura (Monster), Hidetoshi Nishijima (Mozu: The Movie), Hakuryu (The Good, The Bad, The Weird), Takashi Nishina (Outrage Coda) and Continue reading

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Made in Japan? ‘Drive’ director Nicolas Winding Refn heads to Tokyo to shoot a thriller with glitter, sex and violence

"Only God Forgives" Japanese Theatrical Poster

“Only God Forgives” Japanese Theatrical Poster

Nicolas Winding Refn, the writer/director behind The Pusher Trilogy (1996-2005), 2009’s Valhalla Rising, 2011’s Drive, 2013’s Only God Forgives and 2016’s The Neon Demon, is returning to the big screen for an untitled, Tokyo-set thriller.

According to an interview with Variety, the upcoming film – whose plot and casting details are being under wraps – “will have a lot of glitter and lot of sex and violence”. The director hinted that the movie will bring back themes and characters inspired by his last features, Only God Forgives and The Neon Demon, which were both equally stylish and graphic.

We’ll keep you updated on this project as we learn more. Until then, here’s the Trailer Continue reading

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What you call hell, we call Bangkok! Watch the insane Trailer for Netflix’ ‘Bangkok Breaking: Heaven and Hell’

"Bangkok Breaking: Heaven and Hell" Netflix Poster

“Bangkok Breaking: Heaven and Hell” Netflix Poster

On September 26, 2024, Netflix will be streaming Bangkok Breaking: Heaven and Hell, an action-thriller from writer/director Kome Kongkiat Komesiri (Muay Thai Fighter).

When a dedicated rescue worker inadvertently gets caught up in the kidnapping plot of a mogul’s tween daughter, he must save her from the clutches of rival gangs hunting them down with unpredictable dangers around every corner.

Bangkok Breaking: Heaven and Hell stars Sukollawat Kanaros (Thirteen Lives), Atitaya Tribudarak (Nang Nak Saphai Phra Khanong), Sanya Kunakorn (Who Is Running?), and Day Thaitanium.

Look out for Bangkok Breaking: Heaven and Hel on September 26 only on Netflix. Watch Continue reading

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A black belt is a white belt who never quits! New Trailer for Netflix’ ‘Officer Black Belt’ starring star Kim Woo-Bin

"Officer Black Belt" Theatrical Poster

“Officer Black Belt” Theatrical Poster

Don Wong, eat your heart out! Arriving soon to Netflix is Officer Black Belt, an action-comedy from writer/director Kim Joo-Hwan (The Divine Fury, Midnight Runners).

In the film, a talented martial arts prodigy – who holds nine dans across Taekwondo, Kendo, and Judo – teams  up with a probation officer to fight and prevent crime as a police officer.

The film stars Kim Woo-Bin (Alienoid, Alienoid: Return to the Future), Kim Sung-Kyun (Seoul Vibe, The Divine Move 2: The Wrathful) and Lee Hae-young (Confidential Assignment 2: International, Kingmaker).

Officer Black Belt hits Netflix on September 13, 2024. Don’t miss the film’s Continue reading

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Deal on Fire! Deluxe Limited Edition Battle Creek Brawl | Blu-ray | Only $26.99

Today’s Deal on Fire is for 88 Films’ Deluxe Limited Edition Blu-ray (Region B) for Battle Creek Brawl (aka The Big Brawl), Jackie Chan’s 1980 film directed by Robert Clouse (Game of Death, Enter the Dragon) that also stars Jose Ferrer (Joan of Arc), Kristine DeBell (Cheerleaders’ Wild Weekend) and Mako (Silent Assassins).

Official details:

Jackie Chan arrived on American soil with hopes of becoming a superstar in the West and his first ever Hollywood project as a leading man certainly provided him with a notable director in Robert Clouse, the legendary director who took Bruce Lee to the next level with Enter the Dragon (1973). With Battle Creek Brawl (1980), Director Clouse achieved it, this Continue reading

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Man of Reason, A (2023) Review

"A Man of Reason" Theatrical Poster

“A Man of Reason” Theatrical Poster

Director: Jung Woo-sung
Cast: Jung Woo-sung, Kim Nam-Gil, Kim Joon-Han, Park Sung-Woong, Park Yoo-Na, Lee Elijah, Ryu Jian, Kim Joo-Hun, Park Yong, Choi Soo-Im
Running Time: 98 min. 

By Paul Bramhall 

One of the most enduring actors in Korean cinema, since making his debut in 1994’s The Fox With Nine Tails Jung Woo-sung has rarely been absent from the screen in the close to 30 years that followed, and in 2023 he’d make his directorial debut (in addition to co-writing the script) with A Man of Reason. Following a similar approach to his close friend Lee Jung-jae’s directorial debut from the year prior, Hunt (in which Woo-sung co-starred), here he also casts himself as the lead, playing a former gangster who’s just been released from prison after serving a 10-year sentence.

For a directorial debut A Man of Reason gets off to a visually striking start, with the cinematography of the scenes where Woo-sung is released from prison bathed in orange hues, serving to make the Korean countryside almost look like a desert and give off a western influenced vibe. While the cinematography may be striking though, the story and characters soon Continue reading

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