Deal on Fire! Maximum Conviction | Blu-ray | Only $11.48 – Expires soon!

Maximum Conviction | Blu-ray (Lionsgate)

Maximum Conviction | Blu-ray (Lionsgate)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for Maximum Conviction, a 2012 thriller from action director Keoni Waxman (Contract to Kill, End of a Gun)

When former black ops operative Steele (Steven Seagal, Above the Law) and Manning (Steve Austin, Tactical Force) are assigned to decommission an old prison, they must oversee the arrival of two mysterious female prisoners. Before long, an elite force of mercenaries assault the prison in search of the new arrivals. Steven Seagal. Steve Austin. Together at last!

Maximum Conviction also stars Michael Paré (Streets of Fire), Steph Song (The Thaw), Michael Adamthwaite (Stargate SG-1), Dean Redman (The Hard Corps), Bren Foster (Force of Execution) and Continue reading

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Uncut Cat III Donnie Yen flick on Blu-ray? ‘Holy Virgin Versus the Evil Dead’ with Ken Lo and Sibelle Hu now available!

The Holy Virgin Versus the Evil Dead | Blu-ray (88 Films)

The Holy Virgin Versus the Evil Dead | Blu-ray (88 Films)

Now shipping from Goodie Emporium is 88 Films’ Blu-ray (All Region) for The Holy Virgin Versus the Evil Dead, a 1991 action fantasy directed by Tony Lou Chun-Ku (Killer Angels, Holy Flame of the Martial World) that stars Donnie Yen (Raging Fire, Ip Man 4: The Finale, Big Brother).

Professor Shiang’s female students are chewed apart by the moon monster. At first, Shiang is a police suspect, but as the corpses mount, the cops realize that there are supernatural forces at work.

The Holy Virgin Versus the Evil Dead also stars Pauline Yeung Bo Ling (Dragons Forever), Ken Lo (Fighting Fist, Drunken Master 2), Ben Lam (Seven Warriors, Raging Fire), Kathy Chow (Operation Bangkok), and Sibelle Hu (My Lucky Stars).

The film is choreographed by Continue reading

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Handsome Guys (2024) Review

"Handsome Guys" Theatrical Poster

“Handsome Guys” Theatrical Poster

Director: Nam Dong-hyub
Cast: Lee Sung-min, Lee Hee-jun, Park Ji-hwan, Lee Kyu-hyung, Gong Seung-yeon, Woo Hyeon
Running Time: 100 min. 

By Paul Bramhall

The comedy genre has always been one which feels reluctant to be tackled head on in Korea, with even productions that bill themselves as comedies often making sharp U-turns into melodrama for their final reels. The likes of 2002’s Sex is Zero and 2017’s I Can Speak are classic examples of the uniquely Korean tendency to go for laughs and lightness in the first two thirds, then descend into heavy and heart-wrenching finales, a tonal whiplash that local audiences seem to except as the norm. To a degree it almost feels as if to helm an out and out comedy is a mark of shame for a filmmaker, hence the need to incorporate dramatic elements in an attempt to create a serious undertone, even if it means the audience exit the cinema shedding tears of sadness rather than laughter.

Like everything though, there are exceptions to the rule. Director Jang Gyu-sung’s Fun Movie from 2002 offered up a riotous parody of many popular movies of the era, while a director like Sin Jeong-won has stuck steadfastly to the comedy genre throughout his career, with titles like 2012’s Ghost Sweepers and 2020’s The Night of the Undead. While the rest of the 2020’s have largely been devoid of comedic outings on the Korean peninsula, thankfully in 2024 debut Continue reading

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They call him Bruce! ‘Revenger’ star Bruce Khan returns in martial arts prison flick ‘Purgatory: Zone of Murderers’

"Purgatory: Zone of Murderers" Theatrical Poster

“Purgatory: Zone of Murderers” Theatrical Poster

Looking to see a new martial arts classic as much as you’re looking to win some money off BetWinner CI?

Martial artist, actor and stuntman, Bruce Khan – who is perhaps best known for starring in 2018’s Revenger and co-starring in 2022’s The Killer – is currently prepping Purgatory: Zone of Murderers, an upcoming actioner he’s co-directing along with Jonathan Hyun Myoung Lee.

As Khan did with Revenger, he’s also choreographing the action for Purgatory: Zone of Murderers, which is essentially a prison flick with martial arts action.

Set in the near future, Purgatory: Zone of Murderers takes place at a detention centre known as Purgatory, where death-row inmates have been sent by the government. After the criminals take over the institution, an incarcerated former police officer is offered a deal to take down Continue reading

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What’s your ‘New Normal’? Watch the Trailer for the latest thriller from the director of ‘Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum’

"New Normal" Theatrical Poster

“New Normal” Theatrical Poster

Arriving on Digital on July 2, 2024 from Well Go USA is New Normal, the latest thriller from writer/director Jung Bum-Sik (Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum).

Six strangers in a world where loneliness breeds unimaginable horror. New Normal is a captured record of 4 days in Seoul, 2022, which is a time of chaos that all the mankind never have been experienced before in entire human history. It depicts the unexpected risks and identity of fears that are hidden in everyday life and common space.

The film stars Choi Ji-Woo (The Hole), Lee Yu-Mi (The Yellow Sea), Choi Min-Ho (Derailed), Pyo Ji-Hoon (Mouse) and Jeong Dong-Won (Mr. Trot: The Movie).

Watch Well Go USA’s New Trailer Continue reading

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Deal on Fire! 47 Ronin | Blu-ray | Only $8.98 – Expires soon!

"47 Ronin" Blu-ray Cover

“47 Ronin” Blu-ray Cover

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for Carl Rinsch’s 47 Ronin, starring Keanu Reeves (John Wick, John Wick: Chapter 2John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum)

After a treacherous warlord kills their master and banishes their kind, 47 leaderless samurai vow to seek vengeance and reclaim their honor. This band of ronin must seek help from Kai (Reeves) — an enslaved half-breed they once rejected — in their ultimate fight for redemption in a savage world of mythic and wondrous terrors. Kai becomes their most deadly weapon and the heroic inspiration for these outnumbered warriors to confront their enemy and seize eternity.

47 Ronin also stars Tadanobu Asano (Ichi the Killer), Kou Shibasaki (Battle Royale), Hiroyuki Continue reading

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Happy 4th of July! 🇺🇸 👊💥

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Not looking for a quiet place? Then don’t miss the New Trailer for the South Korean disaster thriller ‘Project Silence’

“Project Silence” Theatrical Poster

“Project Silence” Theatrical Poster

2024’s answer to Train to Busan? Get ready for Project Silence, an upcoming South Korean disaster thriller from writer/director Kim Tae-Gon (Familyhood, Sunshine Boys), which will be hitting domestic theaters on July 12, 2024, with a soon-to-be-announced U.S. date.

The film stars the late Lee Sun-Kyun (Parasite, Kingmaker) and Ju Ji-Hoon (Along with the Gods: The Last 49 Days).

Co-written by Kim Yong-Hwa of Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds and Along with the Gods: The Last 49 Days, Project Silence follows an accident that occurs on a foggy bridge and, as a result, an unknown beast is unleashed.

Project Silence also stars Continue reading

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How Casino Entertainment Complements Martial Arts Films

Casino entertainment and martial arts films may seem worlds apart but they share more similarities than you might think. Both offer thrilling experiences that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Exploring how these two forms of entertainment complement each other can provide a deeper appreciation for both genres.

In recent years, the intersection of casino entertainment and martial arts films has become increasingly apparent. These two distinct worlds share a common thread of excitement, suspense and high stakes. By delving into this fascinating crossover, you will uncover the reasons why they make such a perfect pairing.

The Thrill of High Stakes

Martial arts films are renowned for their adrenaline-pumping action sequences and intense fight scenes. Similarly, casino entertainment thrives on the excitement of high stakes and the tension of gambling. The betway app exemplifies how technology has brought the excitement of casino gaming to your fingertips. Just as martial artists face challenges and adversaries, gamblers confront odds and strategies in their quest for victory.

Both genres rely heavily on creating a sense of anticipation and suspense. In martial arts films, the protagonist’s journey is often fraught with obstacles that must be overcome through skill, strategy and sheer determination. Likewise, casino gaming requires players to navigate through a series of risks and rewards, keeping them engaged and invested in the outcome.

The psychological impact of high-stakes situations in both martial arts films and casino entertainment cannot be overstated. In martial arts movies, protagonists often face life-or-death scenarios, pushing themselves to their physical and mental limits. Similarly, casino games like high-stakes poker create intense pressure, where players must maintain composure while risking significant sums. This shared element of psychological tension creates a unique bond between the two forms of entertainment, allowing audiences and participants to experience the rush of adrenaline and the thrill of overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds.

The Allure of Strategy

One key element that ties casino entertainment to martial arts films is the importance of strategy. In martial arts cinema, characters must outwit their opponents using cunning tactics and precise movements. This emphasis on strategic thinking is mirrored in casino games, where players must employ careful planning and decision-making to succeed. This showcases how both realms demand intellectual engagement alongside physical prowess.

Whether it is a meticulously choreographed fight scene or a well-played poker hand, both forms of entertainment captivate audiences by showcasing the power of strategic thinking. The ability to anticipate an opponent’s moves or predict the outcome of a game adds depth and complexity to the experience, making it all the more satisfying when victory finally is achieved.

A Blend of Culture and Aesthetics

The visual appeal of martial arts films is undeniable, with their stunning choreography and vibrant settings. Casino entertainment also boasts a rich aesthetic, characterized by opulent interiors, flashy lights and an atmosphere of glamour and excitement. This blend of culture and aesthetics creates a sensory experience that draws audiences into these captivating worlds.

Both genres often draw inspiration from cultural elements, adding layers of meaning and context to their narratives. Martial arts films frequently explore themes rooted in Asian traditions and philosophies, while casino entertainment can reflect various cultural influences through its diverse range of games and settings. This cultural richness enhances the storytelling in both domains, offering audiences a more immersive experience.

A Shared Sense of Adventure

At their core, both casino entertainment and martial arts films are about embarking on thrilling adventures. Whether it is a hero’s journey through dangerous territories or a gambler’s quest for fortune at the tables, these stories resonate with our innate desire for excitement and discovery.

The unpredictable nature of both genres keeps viewers engaged and eager to see what happens next. Martial arts films often feature unexpected twists and turns in their plots, much like the constantly shifting dynamics of casino games. This shared sense of adventure ensures that audiences remain captivated by the unfolding drama, whether on screen or at the gaming table.

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Escape (2024) Review

"Escape" Theatrical Poster

“Escape” Theatrical Poster

Director: Lee Jong-pil
Cast: Lee Je-hoon, Hong Xa-bin, Koo Kyo-hwan, Shin Dong Hyeon, Esom, Lee Ho Jung
Running Time: 95 min.

By Paul Bramhall

When the Korean War ended in an armistice in 1953 the anti-communist film became a mainstay in the South Korean film industry, going through a golden era during the remainder of the decade, and one which continued well into the 1960’s (so much so that, in 1966, a Best Anti-Communist Film category was added to the Daejong Film Awards). While in the 21st century the anti-communist film genre is considered a product of a bygone era, in 2024 director Lee Jong-pil (Samjin Company English Class, Sound of a Flower) has decided to revive it with his latest feature, Escape.

There’s an inevitable political element whenever a South Korean production deals with themes involving North Korea, with an unspoken rule that they should reflect the sentiments of whoever’s sitting in the presidential office at the time they’re made. During the Park Geun-hye era it was always patriotism that was placed at the fore in productions like Ode to My Father and Northern Limit Line, and during Moon Jae-in’s term the reciprocal approach Continue reading

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The force awakens! Watch the sexy Trailer for the remake of ‘Emmanuelle’ featuring Hong Kong star Anthony Wong

"Emmanuelle" Theatrical Poster

“Emmanuelle” Theatrical Poster

We’ll soon be seeing Hong Kong star Anthony Wong (Untold Story, Untold Story 2, Visible Secret) appear in Emmanuelle, an erotic thriller from director Audrey Diwan (Happening).

Emmanuelle follows a woman and the series of erotic fantasies that she entertains.

Wong appears alongside an all-star cast that’s headlined by Noémie Merlant (Portrait of a Lady on Fire) and Naomi Watts (Boss Level, The Ring), with co-stars Will Sharpe (The White Lotus), Jamie Campbell Bower (Stranger Things) and Chacha Huang (Money Heist).

According to Deadline, the remake will deviate from the lucrative and cult 1974 movie adaptation of Arsan’s novel, which starred Continue reading

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A licky boom boom down! Huang Xuan turns informer in the Trailer for ‘Life Hotel’ hitting U.S. theaters on July 12th

"Life Hotel" Theatrical Poster

“Life Hotel” Theatrical Poster

On July 12, 2024, China Lion is releasing Life Hotel to Canadian and U.S. theaters. This action-comedy is directed by Liu Bo Wen (The Fraud Love Group) and stars Huang Xuan (Extraordinary Mission).

Newly released from prison, an ex-con (Huang Xuan) is provided with an opportunity by his past underworld colleagues: take a position at a “Life Hotel” and inform on the owner. With pressing family obligations, he takes the job only to reevaluate it in the face of new connections made with the occupants. Based on a true story.

Life Hotel also stars Ada Liu (The Four 3), Liu Yan (Master Z: The Ip Man Legacy), Zhang Zhe Hua (Shining Days), Gem (The Last Frenzy) and Continue reading

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88 Films to finally deliver Jackie Chan’s all-star actioners ‘Project A’ and ‘Project A 2’ in 4K Ultra HD in October

On October 15, 2024, 88 Films (U.S.) will be releasing The Project A Collection on 4K Ultra HD. The set will include both 1983’s Project A and 1987’s Project A Part II.

In Project A, fighting against pirates at the turn of the 20th century, the Hong Kong navy are failing miserably. It’s up to Sergeant Lung (Jackie Chan) and his buddies (Sammo Hung, Yuen Biao) to take matters into his own hands.

In Project A II, Sergeant Lung (Chan) is now transferred to be the police head of Sai Wan district, and has to contend with a gangster kingpin, anti-Manchu revolutionaries, some runaway pirates, Manchu Loyalists and a corrupt Police Superintendent.

Collectively, the films also Continue reading

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Deal on Fire! The Heroic Trio & Executioners | 4K UHD | Only $24.99 – Expires soon!

The Heroic Trio & Executioners | 4K UHD & Blu-ray (Criterion)

The Heroic Trio & Executioners | 4K UHD & Blu-ray (Criterion)

Today’s Deal on Fire is for Criterion Collection’s 4K UHD + Blu-ray for both Johnnie To’s 1993 female-centric Hong Kong actioner, The Heroic Trio, as well as its sequel, Heroic Trio 2: Executioners.

Collectively, the films star Michelle Yeoh (Crouching Tiger, Hidden DragonMaster Z: The Ip Man Legacy), Anita Mui (My Father is a Hero, Miracles) and Maggie Cheung (Hero, In the Mood for Love).

Co-stars include Yen Shi Kwan (Fearless Hyena), Paul Chun Pui (The Trough), Damian Lau (Last Hurrah for Chivalry), Eddie Ko Hung (Burning Ambition), Anthony Wong (Ebola Syndrome), Kaneshiro Takeshi (House of Flying Daggers) and Lau Ching Wan (Call of Heroes).

Read the Continue reading

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What’s streaming on Hi-YAH for the month of July?

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

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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