Believer 2 (2023) Review

"Believe 2" Netflix Poster

“Believer 2” Netflix Poster

Director: Baek Jong-Yeol
Cast: Cho Jin-Woong, Cha Seung-Won, Han Hyo-Joo, Oh Seung-Hoon, Kim Dong-Young, Lee Joo-Young, Kang Seung-hyun, Jung Joon-won, Tzi Ma, Andreas Fronk
Running Time: 114 min.

By Paul Bramhall

The decision to remake Hong Kong auteur Johnnie To’s 2013 crime thriller Drug War as a Korean production would prove to be a winning one when Believer was released in 2018. While the original was To’s first venture to see if he could transpose his distinctive style to the Mainland (which through some subtle manoeuvring, he successfully did), the remake fully utilised the creative freedom the Korean film industry has to make a more expansive, layered, and some may argue superior movie. Drug War never received a sequel, however thanks to Netflix surging money into Korean content after the success of the 2021 series Squid Game, in 2023 they greenlit Believer 2, which landed on the streaming giant’s platform in November of the same year (following its premiere at the Busan International Film Festival).

Opening with a needlessly overlong recap of the original through various key scenes being stitched together in rapid succession, it soon becomes clear that the sequel isn’t so much a follow-up as it is a gap fill exercise. The gap in question (and if you haven’t seen Believer, the rest of this paragraph will contain spoilers) being the events that took place between the penultimate scene that takes place in Yongsan train station, and the closing scene in which we see grizzled cop Cho Jin-woong (Me and Me, The Hunt) finally face the mysterious Mr. Lee, played Continue reading

Posted in All, Korean, News, Reviews | Tagged |

The Raid: Limited Edition SteelBook | 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray (Sony)

The Raid: Limited Edition SteelBook | 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray (Sony)

The Raid: Limited Edition SteelBook | 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray (Sony)

RELEASE DATE: January 16, 2024

On January 16, 2024, Sony will be releasing the 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray SteelBook for The Raid, the 2011 groundbreaking martial arts cult-classic from Gareth Evans (The Raid 2, Apostle, Merantau).

The Raid stars Iko Uwais (Triple Threat), Joe Taslim (The Night Comes for Us) and Yayan Ruhian (Yakuza Apocalypse).

Deep in the heart of Jakarta’s slums lies an impenetrable safe house for the world’s most dangerous killers and gangsters. Until now, the rundown apartment block has been considered untouchable. Cloaked under the cover of pre-dawn darkness and silence, an elite SWAT team is tasked with raiding the safe house in order to take down the notorious drug lord that runs it. But when a chance encounter with a spotter Continue reading

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

Deal on Fire! Paradox | Blu-ray | Only $9.99 – Expires soon!

Paradox | Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

Paradox | Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for Paradox (read our review) from director Wilson Yip (Ip Man 3) and producer Soi Cheang (SPL II).

Paradox stars Louis Koo (League of Gods) as a police negotiator who travels to Bangkok to search for his teenage daughter and is aided by local detectives played by Tony Jaa (Skin Trade) and Wu Yue (Journey to the West).

Paradox also stars Gordon Lam (Trivisa), Ken Lo (The Godfather’s Daughter Mafia Blues), Hanna Chan, Stephy Tang (Let’s Go!), Chris Collins and features action choreography by Hong Kong Continue reading

Posted in Deals on Fire!, News |

Korean horror film ‘The Wailing’ from the filmmaker behind ‘Chaser’ and ‘Yellow Sea’ arrives on 4K Ultra HD in December

The Wailing | 4K UHD + Blu-ray (Well Go USA)

The Wailing | 4K UHD + Blu-ray (Well Go USA)

On December 12, 2023, Well Go USA will be releasing The Wailing (read our review) on 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray. This 2016 South Korean thriller is directed by Na Hong-jin (The Chaser, The Yellow Sea).

The Wailing stars Hwang Jeong-min (Veteran), Kwak Do-won (Tazza: The Hidden Card), and Japanese actor Jun Kunimura (Why Don’t You Play in Hell?).

The film involves a local cop investigating a series of violent unexplained murders. When his own daughter falls ill and shows signs of possession, a shaman is called in to assist with the investigation.

Pre-order today Continue reading

Posted in News |

You better believe that Baek Jong-yeol’s South Korean thriller ‘Believer 2’ is on Netflix tomorrow

"Believe 2" Netflix Poster

“Believe 2” Netflix Poster

The sequel to Believer, a 2018 South Korean remake of Johnnie To’s highly successful crime thriller Drug War, hits netflix tomorrow!

The first film  – about a drug dealer who conspires with a dangerously ambitious cop to bring down a major cartel’s psychotic kingpin – starred Cho Jin-woong (A Hard Day), Ryu Jun-yeol (A Taxi Driver), Kim Joo-hyuk (Say Yes) and Cha Seung-won (Man On High Heels), with Lee Hae-young (The Silenced) in the director’s chair.

Taking over for director Lee Hae-young (The Silenced) will be Baek Jong-yeol, who is perhaps best known for the 2015 fantasy/romance hit, The Beauty Inside.

Cast Continue reading

Posted in News |

Evil Dead Trap | Blu-ray (88 Films)

Evil Dead Trap | Blu-ray (88 Films)

Evil Dead Trap | Blu-ray (88 Films)

RELEASE DATE: February 2024

In February of 2024, 88 Films will be releasing the Blu-ray (Region B) for the cult classic Evil Dead Trap (read our review), a 1988 Japanese thriller from director Toshiharu Ikeda (Mermaid Legend).

A late night TV presenter receives a snuff tape, in which a woman is brutally killed. She decides to take a crew out to a location indicated in the tape, but only death and despair await them.

The film stars Miyuki Ono (Legend of the Holy Woman), Aya Katsuragi (Tokyo: The Last War), Japanese AV idol Hitomi Kobayashi, Eriko Nakagawa and Masahiko Abe.

This title will soon be available at The Goodie Emporium, a U.S.-based online Continue reading

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

Evil Dead Trap 2: Hideki | Blu-ray (88 Films)

Evil Dead Trap 2: Hideki | Blu-ray (88 Films)

Evil Dead Trap 2: Hideki | Blu-ray (88 Films)

RELEASE DATE: February 2024

In February of 2024, 88 Films Films is releasing the Blu-ray (Region B) for 1992’s Evil Dead Trap 2: Hideki, the “sequel” to 1988’s Japanese cult classic, Evil Dead Trap.

Evil Dead Trap 2: Hideki is directed by Izo Hashimoto (Lucky Sky Diamond) and stars Shoko Nakajima (Sayonara Color), Rie Kondoh (Rasuto Furankenshutain) and Shiro Sano (Godzilla 2000: Millennium).

A female projectionist suddenly comes to the self-realization that she just in fact may be a serial killer responsible for brutally murdering everyone around her.

This title will soon be available at The Goodie Emporium, a U.S.-based online store that currently has many Import Shaw Brothers/Golden Harvest/martial arts DVD/Blu-ray movies in-stock – with New Continue reading

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

The Influence of Poker in Movies and TV Shows

The Influence of Poker in Movies and TV ShowsMany historians believe that poker originated in the US in the 1800s. Some say it has roots dating back nearly 1000 years and crossing several continents and communities.  They think it’s an odd coincidence that poker is similar to the 16th-century Persian card game called As Nas. However, there’s no evidence to prove that’s where it started. 

Today, poker accommodates all gamers. It’s evolving with new variants like Omaha, Five-card Draw, Chinese Poker and more, enhancing its growth and popularity. Since it’s a social activity with great risks and winning chances, it keeps players on the edge of their seats, making the gameplay more exciting. 

The Rise of Poker in Pop Culture 

Photo by Tosa Vlad

Movies played a key role in the poker game’s surge in popularity. The rise in popularity started in the late 20th century. Movies like Rounders and the World Series of Poker helped gaming enthusiasts see poker in a new light. The World Series of Poker aired in the 1970s, while Rounders was released in 1998. 

Poker plays a significant role in captivating the audience on screens as movie creators depict memorable characters, high-stakes games, and thrilling storylines. In Rounders, Matt Damon and Edward Norton showed fans that poker was more than just a game – it’s a profession. It helped create a chatter around poker and attract more gamers. 

The game of poker has also been featured in various TV shows, including the Celebrity Poker Showdown, which aired on Bravo from 2003 to 2006. The show had celebrities battling against each other, but the winner would donate the prize money to a charity of choice. Another popular show was Poker After Dark, which aired on NBC from 2007 to 2011.

Iconic Poker Movies and Shows 

Photo by Cottonbro Studio

Here are other iconic movies and TV shows with poker scenes and storylines. 

1. The Cincinnati Kid

The Cincinnati Kid is a 1965 American drama film that raised over $7 million. It has an amazing storyline and great suspense keeping the audience engaged and guessing. The movie follows an upcoming poker player who seeks to prove himself worthy by partaking in high-stakes poker games with seasoned players. 

Although the protagonist gets a chance to play The Man, he finds out that the game is rigged in his favour. However, he desires to beat his opponent in a straight game. The success of The Cincinnati Kid laid the foundation for other poker-themed films.

2. Maverick

Maverick is a 1994 popular comedy film based on the Maverick TV series. It features Mel Gibson and Jodie Foster who need money for a poker tournament but face comic mishaps and challenges. 

The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Costume Design. However, it remained a memorable film for gamers and fans, creating a lasting image of poker and casino gaming. It takes a lighthearted spring around the world of poker, whilst giving viewers a fun and entertaining film to watch. 

3. Casino Royale 

Casino Royale is a 2006 007 adventure, action, and thriller film, the twenty-first in the EON Production’s James Bond series. However, in Casino Royale, 007 is more trained, maintaining a cold-hearted killer demeanour, overcoming, modifying, and improvising in most situations. 

Bond plays poker instead of Chemin-de-Fer or Crabs. He must defeat a private banker who funds terrorist organisations in a high-stakes game of poker at Casino Royale. The plot is so captivating that Daniel Craig, though initially hesitant, changed his mind and accepted the part of James Bond after reading the finished script. 

4. Molly’s Game

Molly’s Game is a biographical crime and drama film based on the 2014 biography of Molly’s Game by Molly Bloom. It follows a lady who runs an undercover poker empire for Hollywood celebrities, business tycoons, and athletes. 

Her business empire gets exposed, and she becomes the target of an FBI investigation. Changes between the real-life and Molly’s game biography are minimal, hence the film raised considerable chatter in the gaming world. 

5. High Stakes Poker

Photo by Cottonbro Studio

High Stakes Poker is an American television program. When it first aired, High Stakes Poker was unique because it didn’t take place in a tournament setting. The TV program shows high-stakes No-Limit Texas Hold ‘em. It features amateur and seasoned gamers as they risk hundreds of thousands of cash. 

Although the series pays gamers to participate in gameplay, they must risk losing more money to participate in the game. The winnings are real as Gut Hansen won $575,700 with four fives, beating Daniel Negreanu’s full house. 

6. Ocean Eleven

Ocean Eleven is an American heist film directed by Steven Soderbergh and released in the US by Warner Bros Pictures. The story follows friends Clooney and Pitt, who plan to heist $160 million from a casino owner. The film received great reviews from critics and garnered $450.7 million worldwide. 

Critics believe that the poker scene in Ocean Eleven set the scene for the series. It shows that our protagonist is intelligent, resilient, and a great risk-taker. The poker scene helps to establish the brotherly bond between Rusty and Danny, two criminals with a history of schemes. 

Conclusion

Hollywood films made poker a glamorous game. Poker scenes seem exhilarating with fun twists, suspense, and flair. The game greatly influenced how entertainment and social interactions are crafted. It’s hard to miss a representation of poker in movies and TV shows. 

Poker went from a simple game to influencing fashion trends and lifestyle, music and celebrity endorsements, video games, and literature. Its ability to symbolise human emotion and strategy serves as a unifying social activity in all cultures. 

Posted in News |

Well Go USA puts you on the edge of the world in the Trailer for ‘Crocodile Island’ arriving next week

Crocodile Island | DVD (Well Go USA)

Crocodile Island | DVD (Well Go USA)

On November 21, 2023, Well Go USA is releasing Crocodile Island on DVD and on Digital. The film (read our review) is a 2020 thriller from filmmaking duo Shixing Xu (Monster’s Battleground) and Simon Zhao (The Antarctic Octopus).

A plane crashes near an uncharted island in an area of the Devil’s Sea as infamous as the Bermuda Triangle. A few survivors, including a father (Gallen Lo, The White Storm 3) and daughter (Liao Yinyue, Last One Standing), make it to shore, but quickly discover that an enormous crocodile and gigantic spiders inhabit the land. The battle for survival begins!

You can also watch Crocodile Island on Hi-YAH!, Well Go USA’s very own Asian/martial arts streaming channel, which will stream Continue reading

Posted in News |

Eureka Entertainment’s Blu-ray for Stephen Chow’s ‘Royal Tramp’ and ‘Royal Tramp II’ hits retailers today

Royal Tramp Collection | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Royal Tramp Collection | Blu-ray (Eureka)

On November 13, 2023, Eureka will be releasing the Blu-ray (Region B) for The Royal Tramp Collection, which will include 1992’s Royal Tramp and Royal Tramp II.

Official details:

An epic two-part wuxia-comedy based on the writings of acclaimed Chinese novelist Jin Yong,  Royal Tramp 1 and Royal Tramp 2 star Stephen Chow (The MermaidThundercops 2) as a cowardly bard who finds himself part of a real adventure when he is inducted into a sect of revolutionaries.

Wai Siu-bao (Chow) is known for his exciting tales of adventure and heroism, but his own life is quite dull. After rescuing the leader of a revolutionary movement from a police ambush, Wai is recruited Continue reading

Posted in News |

The Future of Cannabis Grower Jobs: Industry Trends and Predictions

The cannabis industry is rapidly expanding. As it continues to grow, so do the job opportunities. One such opportunity that has been gaining popularity is that of a cannabis grower.

With more and more states legalizing both the medical and recreational use of marijuana, there is a growing demand for experienced and knowledgeable cannabis growers.

In this document, we will dive into the world of cannabis grower jobs. Let’s explore industry trends and predictions that will guide your career path in this ever-evolving field.

So, read further!

Increased Demand for Cultivation Experts

There is a growing need for skilled growers who can produce top-notch products. Moreover, having expert cultivators on board has become crucial to ensure consistent and high-yielding crops.

This also comes along with dispensaries opening up in various locations. It has then led to a rise in the number of job opportunities for cannabis growers.

Specialization in Strain Development

Along with the increased demand for cannabis, there has also been a rise in the demand for specific strains of marijuana. This has created a need for specialized cannabis growers who can cultivate and develop these particular strains. T

Growers with experience and knowledge in strain development have an advantage in the job market. This is because dispensaries and cultivators seek to offer unique products to their customers. This trend is expected to continue as the cannabis industry is going strong.

Focus on Sustainable and Organic Practices

There is also a growing emphasis on sustainable and organic cultivation practices. Consumers are becoming more conscious of where their products come from and how they are grown.

This has led to a shift towards using natural and environmentally friendly methods in cannabis production. As such, there is an increasing demand for growers who have experience with these practices. The industry is looking for those who can implement them in their cultivation process.

Research and Development Opportunities

There is also a need for continued research and development in this field. This opens up opportunities for cannabis growers to branch out into roles such as:

  • strain breeding
  • genetics
  • product development

As the industry evolves with more dispensary openings and more research is conducted on cannabis, there will be increasing demand for growers with expertise in these areas.

If you are starting through any medical cannabis programs, you can try exploring different products from dispensaries to gain insight into the industry. To begin with, you must shop now for some of the best products.

Have a Look Into the Future of Cannabis Grower Jobs

The future of cannabis grower jobs is bright and full of opportunities. With the industry expected to continue its growth, there will be an increasing demand for skilled and knowledgeable cultivators who can keep up with the ever-changing trends.

So, if you are considering a career in the cannabis industry, becoming a cannabis grower may be a rewarding choice. Stay updated on industry developments and grab the opportunities that come your way for a successful career in this exciting field.

For more topics like this, feel free to explore our blog section. We’ve got more!

Posted in News |

The Evolution of Online Casino Chips: From Virtual to Physical

The world of online casinos has been rapidly growing and evolving over the years. One particular aspect that has undergone a significant transformation is the use of casino chips. From being utterly virtual to having physical counterparts, online casino chips have come a long way.

In this document, we will look at how online casino chips have evolved. We will also discuss the reasons behind this evolution. This guide will tell us the impact it has had on online gambling.

Read on to learn more.

The Birth of Virtual Casino Chips

All transactions were done virtually using electronic payment methods like credit cards or e-wallets. This was also true for placing bets and playing games, meaning casino chips were virtual.

These virtual casino chips were just numbers on a screen, with no physical form or tangible value.

They could be easily bought and sold within the online casino environment. They held no real-world value.

With the Emergence of Physical Casino Chips

Some players started to miss the tangible element of physical casino chips. This led to the emergence of physical casino chips that could be purchased and used in virtual casinos.

These physical chips often come with unique designs made from high-quality materials. Giving players a more authentic casino experience.

They could also be collected as souvenirs. It also adds another dimension to the online gambling industry.

The Integration of Virtual and Physical Chips

Today, many online casinos offer a combination of both virtual and physical casino chips. Players can use either form, with each having its benefits.

Virtual chips are still convenient for quick transactions. This can be easily bought and sold within the online casino environment. Physical chips add a level of authenticity and collectibility to the online gambling experience.

Don’t know which is the best online casino for you? It must find all the information you need to help you find the best place to play.

Future Prospects

The future of casino chips in the online world seems ripe for further innovation. One potential development could be incorporating advanced technology such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

This is to create a more immersive digital gambling experience. Imagine using VR goggles to see and handle virtual chips as if they were real or employing AR. This is to project digital images of your physical chips onto your tabletop.

Furthermore, with the rise of cryptocurrency, it’s not far-fetched to foresee online casinos adopting crypto tokens as a new casino chip. These could provide an unprecedented level of security and privacy and open up new possibilities for globalized gameplay.

This progression signifies an adaptation to emerging tech trends and the online casinos’ constant pursuit. It is to enhance the gamblers’ experience.

Understanding the  Evolution of Online Casino Chips

The evolution of online casino chips from virtual to physical has added more options for players and enhanced the overall gambling experience. From simple numbers on a screen to tangible objects with real-world value, casino chips have come a long way and will continue to evolve alongside the ever-growing world of online gambling.

So, it’s evident that the integration of virtual and physical chips has significantly impacted the industry, making it more diverse and appealing to a broader audience. We can only expect further evolution in online casino chips as technology advances. Whether you prefer the ease of virtual chips or

For more helpful information, check out the rest of our site today!

Posted in News |

Maximizing Your Winnings with Blocker Bet Poker: The Winning Formula

Winning money gambling isn’t about simple luck. If it were, you’d unexpectedly get rich at some point without trying to.

Instead, winners know how to calculate their next bet. They research their odds, know when to fold, and seek out the most advantageous promotions. When done effectively, they can generate greater payouts for themselves.

With this in mind, we’re here to walk you through a specific game strategy to hone your payouts like pros. Keep reading to learn more about blocker bet poker and how it will elevate your game.

Understanding Blocker Bets: What Are They?

A blocker bet is a small bet made on the river to prevent your opponent from making a larger bet. It’s a proactive move that aims to control the size of the pot and gather information about your opponent’s hand.

By strategically using your hand as a “blocker” to sure potential strong hands, you can influence your opponent’s decisions and gain an advantage.

The Winning Formula: When to Use Blocker Bets

The primary goal of a blocker bet poker game is to control the size of the pot and potentially avoid a larger bet from your opponent. Here are situations where using blocker bets might be a winning strategy:

Narrowing Down the Opponent’s Range

Before making a blocker bet, assessing your opponent’s likely range of hands is crucial. If the community cards suggest a possible straight or flush, a well-timed blocker bet can force your opponent to fold weaker hands or call with a worse hand.

Taking Control of the Pot Size

Blocker bets are especially effective when you’re unsure about the strength of your opponent’s hand. By making a small bet, you control the size of the pot while minimizing your losses if your opponent has a stronger hand. This cautious approach can be a game-changer, preventing you from committing too many chips to a losing cause.

Extracting Value with Strong Hands

Conversely, a block bet can extract maximum value from your opponent when you hold a strong hand. By inducing a call with a smaller bet, you avoid scaring off your opponent and ensure that the pot grows steadily. You can also practice this when you want to bet on sports, as it’s essential to know when to raise the stakes and be more conservative.

Blocker Bets vs. Standard Bets: The Distinct Advantage

In a poker game, blocker bets and standard bets are two different strategies that players employ in certain situations. Let’s explore each advantage:

Keeping Your Opponent Guessing

Unlike standard bets that often reveal the strength of your hand, blocker bets maintain an air of mystery. By making a small bet, you keep your opponent guessing about the true nature of your hand.

Controlling the Dynamics of the Game

Blocker bets allow you to take control of the game’s dynamics. Whether in a defensive position, protecting your stack, or in an offensive position, maximizing your winnings and understanding when and how to deploy a blocker bet can shift the momentum in your favor.

Mastering the Art of Blocker Bet Poker

In the intricate game of poker, mastering the art of blocker bet poker can be the winning formula that sets you apart from the competition. Remember, anticipation and strategic moves are the keys to success in a poker game, as in chess. Add the blocker bet to your arsenal, and watch your betting victories multiply.

If you’re looking for more tips to help you out, check out more of our other blogs!

Posted in News |

Jet Li’s ‘My Father is a Hero’, ‘Dr. Wai in the Scripture Without Words’ and ‘Hitman’ arriving to Blu-ray on November 20

Heroes and Villains: Three Films starring Jet Li | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Heroes and Villains: Three Films starring Jet Li | Blu-ray (Eureka)

On November 20, 2023, Eureka will be releasing the Blu-ray (Region) B for Heroes and Villains: Three Films starring Jet Li, which will include 1995’s The Enforcer (aka My Father is a Hero), 1996’s Dr. Wai in the Scripture Without Words and 1998’s Hitman.

The film are directed by Corey Yuen (No Retreat, No Surrender 2), Ching Siu-tung (Wonder Seven) and Stephen Tung Wai (Fox Hunter), respectively.

Official details:

After the massive success of the Once Upon a Time in China series, Jet Li moved away from period settings and started to focus on action films set in the modern-era, a decision that would make him an Continue reading

Posted in News |

The War God | aka Calamity (1976) Review

"The War God" Theatrical Poster

“The War God” Theatrical Poster

Director: Chen Hung-Min
Cast: Ku Ming-Lun, Tse Ling-Ling, Chen Yu-Hsin, Lung Fei, Cindy Tang Hsin, Tseng Chao
Runnning Time: 91 min. 

By Paul Bramhall

The chances are if someone was feeling in the mood for some kaiju action, the go-to country would be Japan. The likes of Godzilla, Mothra, and King Ghidora have practically come to define the genre, and of course the word ‘kaiju’ itself is Japanese, directly translating to ‘strange beast’ (which further translated onto the big screen, usually means giant monster!). If you were willing to tread a little off the beaten track, then Korea also had its own offerings, with the South delivering Yongary, Monster from the Deep in 1967, and the North unleashing Pulgasari in 1985. Even Hong Kong occasionally got in on the action, with the Shaw Brothers studio producing Mighty Peking Man in 1977. However one country that rarely gets mentioned when it comes to kaiju flicks is Taiwan.

While Taiwan may not be known for its kaiju output, that didn’t stop director Chen Hung-Min from having a crack in 1976. Trained in Japan under the Toho and Toei film studios, Hung-Min worked mainly as an editor during his 30-year career spanning the 1950s through to the 1980s, however upon returning from Japan in the late 60’s he occasionally stepped into the director’s Continue reading

Posted in All, Chinese, News, Reviews | Tagged |