Ready for an ‘Uprising’? Watch the Trailer for Netflix’ period actioner from ‘Oldboy’ writer Park Chan-wook

"Uprising" Netflix Poster

“Uprising” Netflix Poster

Coming soon to Netflix is Uprising, a South Korean period actioner from multi-talented filmmaker Kim Sang-man (Girl Scout), who has served as both art director and score composer on 2006’s Bloody Tie for director Choi Ho, as well as art director for Park Chan-wook’s 2000 classic, Joint Security Area. The film sees Kim re-teaming with Park, who is writing and producing the project.

Uprising stars Gang Dong-won (Dr. Cheon and the Lost Talisman), Park Jeong-min (Fists of Legend) and Cha Seung-won (Believer 2).

Set in the Joseon era during a tumultuous time in the aftermath of war, take a journey through the lives of two childhood friends-turned-adversaries: Cheon Continue reading

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♫ Ready to bust a move to John Woo? Hong Kong action director’s next film be a part musical called ‘X Crucior’

"The Killer" UK Theatrical Poster

“The Killer” UK Theatrical Poster

Hot off the moderate success of 2023’s Silent Night and the recent The Killer remake, acclaimed Hong Kong action filmmaker John Woo (Hard Boiled, Manhunt) is thinking of his next movie, and one of these projects will be a part-musical, which is a genre Woo has been interested in for a very long time (he’s on the record saying musicals influenced his 1997 film, Face/Off).

“My next project is actually a half-musical,” Woo confirms to Empire. “I’m going to be working with the Sparks Brothers, who wrote the script and songs — we are just starting work on some changes to the script.” While the filmmaker didn’t confirm the name of the project, all signs point to it being X Crucior, a film described by Focus Features when initially announced as a ‘musical epic’. Having long declared his dream to make a musical – back in the 1990s, he came close to adapting The Phantom of the Opera into a big-budget Continue reading

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Scott Adkins, Marko Zaror, Daniel Bernhardt, Shaina West merge in the Final Trailer for Dave Bautista’s ‘Killer’s Game’

"Killer's Game" Teaser Poster

“Killer’s Game” Teaser Poster

J.J. Perry, who made his directorial debut with the 2022 Netflix actioner, Day Shift, is getting ready to release The Killer’s Game, an upcoming action-comedy starring Dave Bautista (Master Z: The Ip Man Legacy, Final Score), Sofia Boutella (Atomic Blonde) and Ben Kingsley (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings).

Based on Jay Bonansinga’s novel of the same name, The Killer’s Game involves a world-weary assassin who’s taken a hit out on himself finds a new reason to live after his girlfriend discovers she’s pregnant. Together, they race across Europe, trying to outrun his would-be killers.

The film also features an all-star cast that includes Scott Adkins (John Wick 4), Daniel Continue reading

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Cynthia Rothrock is the best in the West! Watch the New Trailer for the all-star martial arts thriller ‘Black Creek’

"Black Creek" Theatrical Poster

“Black Creek” Theatrical Poster

Cult martial arts action screen icon Cynthia Rothrock (The Blonde Fury, No Retreat No Surrender II, Righting Wrongs) is back with Black Creek, an upcoming western/martial arts action movie, and currently the 3rd most successfully funded action film ‘OF ALL TIME’!

Black Creek is directed by Shannon Lanier, who is perhaps best known for his shorts, Love Between The Sheets and Heidi and Rewind; as well as his cinematography work for films such as Harvey and Under His Control.

Co-starring in Black Creek are fellow cult martial arts stars Olivier Gruner (Angel Town, Showdown in Manila), Don “The Dragon” Wilson (Death Fighter, Diamond Cartel), Richard Norton (Mr. Nice Guy, Millionaires Express), Billy Blanks (King of the Kickboxers, The Master), Keith Continue reading

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Deal on Fire! The Legend is Born: Ip Man | Blu-ray | Only $7.99 – Expires soon!

"The Legend Is Born: Ip Man" Blu-ray Cover

“The Legend Is Born: Ip Man” Blu-ray Cover

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for The Legend is Born: Ip Man, a 2010 martial arts film directed by Herman Yau (Customs Frontline, Death Notice) that stars award-winning wushu martial artist, Dennis To (Kung Fu League,  Zombie 108).

The Legend is Born follows Ip Man as he grows from a promising young pupil into an unstoppable force. When political corruption threatens his temple, Ip Man singlehandedly challenges a swarm of shinobi in an ultimate showdown.

The film features a supporting all-star cast that includes Sammo Hung (Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In, Enter the Fat Dragon), Yuen Biao (Operation Bangkok, Twinkle Twinkle Lucky Stars), Louis Fan (Riki-Oh: The Story of Ricky), Huang Yi (Treasure Inn), Lam Suet (I Did It My Way), Ip Chun (Bruce Lee: The Man, The Myth), son of Continue reading

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Simon Yam is ‘The Comeback’ kid! Watch the New Trailer for this action thriller also starring martial arts star Andy On

"The Comeback" Theatrical Poster

“The Comeback” Theatrical Poster

Arriving on Digital on August 6th, 2024 is The Comeback, the latest action import from U.S. label Well Go USA.

Directed by Suiqiang Huo (Blind War), The Comeback stars Simon Yam (I Did It My Way, Bullet in the Head) and Andy On (Undercover Punch and Gun, Abduction).

Uncle Hua (Yam), an antiques-dealer, has lived in the old street for many years, and is highly respected by his neighbors. But once gangsters get involved with his peaceful stomping grounds, Uncle Hua has no choice but to get tough!

The Comeback also stars Yuen Wah (The Trough) and Norman Chu (Code of the Assassin).

Watch Well Continue reading

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The lethal weapon is back! New U.S. Trailer for Ryoo Seung-wan’s ‘I, the Executioner’ starring Hwang Jung-min

"I, the Executioner" Theatrical Poster

“I, the Executioner” Theatrical Poster

Director Ryoo Seung-wan (The Battleship Island, Escape from Mogadishu) is a familiar name to fans of Korean action cinema, ever since his debut Die Bad in 2000, he’s consistently delivered a series of movies which combine action with a strong narrative.

Since his riotous parody of old school Korean action movies with 2008’s Dachimawa Lee, the director has taken a decidedly darker approach, with both The Unjust and The Berlin File exploring the not so pleasant side of life. While both contained plenty of his trademarks, Seung-wan himself expressed a desire to move away from these darker tales, and get back to the type of action movies that he watched in his youth, those that existed in a brighter world where the good guy wins.

2015’s Veteran was that return, and was arguably his most successful production Continue reading

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‘The Mob’ has gone digital! Zhao Cong’s gangster thriller available On Digital on September 10th from Well Go USA

"The Mob" Theatrical Poster

“The Mob” Theatrical Poster

Here’s an offer you can’t refuse… On September 10, 2024, the gritty gangster actioner The Mob will arrive On Digital. This gangster thriller is directed by Zhao Cong (Rise of the Jurassic).

After the murder of its high-profile patriarch, the Zhou family seeks revenge against a ruthless rival clan moving to expand its own territory, sparking a brutal conflict between the warring families that throws Shanghai into chaos.

The Mob stars Xu Fangzhou (All These Years), Zhang Junran (Trace), Yan Jiaying (Tiger Killer), Chen Junxi (Annals of Longevity), Guan Xiaotian (Switch), and Zhang Zhiwei (The Woman Knight of Mirror Lake)

The film is also currently on the martial arts streaming service Hi-YAH! If you want Continue reading

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Golden Harvest Vol. 1: Supernatural Shockers | Blu-ray (Shout!)

Golden Harvest Vol. 1: Supernatural Shockers | Blu-ray (Shout!)

Golden Harvest Vol. 1: Supernatural Shockers | Blu-ray (Shout!)

RELEASE DATE: November 12, 2024

On November 12, 2024, Shout! Factory will be releasing the Blu-ray Collection for Golden Harvest Vol. 1: Supernatural Shockers, which will include 1991’s Sex and Zen, 1990’s Erotic Ghost Story, 1991’s Erotic Ghost Story II, 1992’s Erotic Ghost Story III, 1990’s Doctor Vampire and 1991’s Robotrix. 

Read the official details:

Scandalous. Sensual. Shocking. Prepare yourself for a collection of some of the most outrageous offerings in the history of Hong Kong Cinema! The Golden Harvest Collection, Volume 1: Supernatural Shockers brings you six of the steamiest, most outrageous films you’ve ever seen (including several infamous “Category III” – adults only – classics)! From the unearthly appearance of ghosts and vampires to the undeniable screen presence of Amy Yip, these sublimely sexy Continue reading

Posted in Asian Titles, DVD/Blu-ray New Releases, Martial Arts Titles, News |

The Stephen Chow Collection | Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

The Stephen Chow Collection | Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

The Stephen Chow Collection | Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

RELEASE DATE: November 26th, 2024

On November 26, 2024, Shout! Factory will be releasing the Blu-ray for The Stephen Chow Collection, which will include 1990’s Look Out, Officer!, 1992’s Justice, My Foot!, 1993’s The Mad Monk and 1995’s Out of the Dark.

Read the official details:

Celebrate the legendary career of Hong Kong master of mirth and mayhem Stephen Chow (Shaolin Soccer, Kung Fu Hustle) with this four-film collection!

Selected from Chow’s ’90s prime, these films showcase the unique comedy & action stylings that made Chow an international star of the screen. Get ready for laughs, thrills, and appearances from a bevy of Hong Kong legends, including Maggie Continue reading

Posted in Asian Titles, DVD/Blu-ray New Releases, Martial Arts Titles, News |

The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk Collection | 4K Ultra HD (88 Films)

The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk Collection | 4K Ultra HD (88 Films)

RELEASE DATE: November 25, 2024

On November 25, 2024, 88 Films will be releasing The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk Collection on 4K Ultra HD, which will include two Corey Yuen-directed martial arts classics: 1993’s The Legend of Fong Sai-yuk and The Legend of Fong Sai-yuk II.

The films co-star Josephine Siao Fung Fung (Summer Snow), Michelle Reis (Bodyguards & Assassins), Vincent Chiu Man Chuk (Once Upon a Time in China IV), Sibelle Hu (The Holy Virgin Versus the Evil Dead), Adam Cheng (Seven Warriors) and Amy Kwok (Victim).

This limited edition Jet Li double feature includes two breathtaking martial arts action films directed by Corey Yuen (The Transporter). In The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk, Jet Li stars as a carefree young martial arts expert who gets involved with a government Continue reading

Posted in Asian Titles, DVD/Blu-ray New Releases, Martial Arts Titles, News |

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

Posted in All, Asian Related, News, Other Movies, Reviews | Tagged |

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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