Now shipping from Goodie Emporium is Eureka’s Blu-ray (Region B) for Shogun’s Samurai (aka Yagyu Clan Conspiracy or Intrigue of the Yagyu Clan), a 1978 film from Kinji Fukasaku (The Green Slime, Battle Royal).
One of Kinji Fukasaku’s most revered forays into the chanbara or samurai genre: a twisting tale of political intrigue and bloody betrayal starring Kinnosuke Yorozuya (Lone Wolf and Cub), Hiroki Matsukata (Cops vs. Thugs) and the incomparable Shinichi Continue reading
“Heat 2” Novel Cover
A sequel to Michael Mann’s 1995 crime epic, Heat, is finally moving in the right direction now that Amazon MGM/United Artist is spearheading the production.
Leonardo DiCaprio is in negotiations for the role of Chris Shiherlis (portrayed by Val Kilmer the original); and Adam Driver (Ferrari) is rumored for the role of Neil McCauley (portrayed by Robert De Niro in the original).
The latest update from Deadline is that Christian Bale (who worked with Mann on Public Enemies) is circling a major, undisclosed role.
Other stars being thrown around by media outlets include Austin Butler (Elvis), Bradley Cooper (A Star is Born), Ana de Armas (Ballerina), Jeremy Continue reading
“Good News” Netflix Poster
Director: Byun Sung-hyun
Cast: Sul Kyung-Gu, Hong Kyung, Ryoo Seung-Bum, Takayuki Yamada, Shiro Sano, Show Kasamatsu, Nairu Yamamoto, Eita Nagayama, Hinata Hiiragi
Running Time: 136 min.
By Paul Bramhall
Korean cinema rarely ventures into the realm of satire, however on the few occasions it has it’s done it well. 2002’s Fun Movie saw the Korean film industry going the Scary Movie route and lampooning its own blockbusters of the era (with Shiri being the main target!). In 2004 the assassination of President Park Chung-hee was controversially sent up in The President’s Last Bang, and more recently 2020’s Steel Rain 2: Summit saw the leaders of the North, South, and the U.S. humorously forced to converse while being held captive on a submarine. 2025’s Good News puts satire at the top of the agenda once more, taking a leaf out of The President’s Last Bang playbook by also basing itself on an actual event, and uses it to poke fun at everything from communism to the bureaucracy of South Korea’s own government.
The Yodogo Hijacking Incident refers to Japan Air Lines Flight 351 on 31st March 1970, when members of Japan’s Red Army hijacked the flight, demanding to be flown to Cuba where they intended to be trained up by communist military groups. When the pilots advised the plane didn’t have enough fuel to go to Cuba, they opted to be taken to Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, instead. Most famously, the pilots were secretly given directions to Gimpo Continue reading
The Untold Story of No Retreat No Surrender | Blu-ray (Lowe Media)
From YouTuber Oliver Harper, the director of the documentaries In Search of the Last Action Heroes and Here Comes A New Challenger, comes The Untold Story of No Retreat No Surrender, which hits Blu-ray (All Region) on January 24, 2026.
The Untold Story of No Retreat No Surrender explores the story behind the 1980s cult classic, examining the mix of Hong Kong action with Western storytelling, how Kurt McKinney inspired kids and teenagers to fight back against bullies, how the world was introduced to Jean Claude Van Damme, and how it impacted the VHS generation.
The documentary features interviews with cast, crew and star-fans, including Kurt McKinney, Scott Adkins, Ng See Yuen, Keith Continue reading
Arriving on Black Friday from Severin Films is an all-new Blu-ray (Region A/B/C) for The Crippled Masters (not to be confused with 1978’s Crippled Avengers), a 1979 martial arts/exploitation film from director Joe Law (The Lost Secrets of Kung Fu).
The Crippled Masters features two genuinely handicapped martial artists: Shun Chung-Chuen (Two Crippled Heroes) and Thomas Hong Continue reading
“Last Samurai Standing” Netflix Poster
Now on Netflix is Last Samurai Standing, a series based on the manga of the same name by Shogo Imamura.
Directed by Michihito Fujii (Shoutai), Kento Yamaguchi (Dependence) and Toru Yamamoto (Missions of Love), Last Samurai Standing is an epic battle royale between brave warriors who lived through an uncertain era.
In the late 19th century during the Meiji period, 292 warriors, including Shujiro Saga (Junichi Okada), gather at Tenryuji Temple in Kyoto at nightfall, lured by the promise of a huge cash prize. Each given a wooden tag, they join a vicious game in which they must steal the tags of their fellow participants and reach Tokyo to win the prize money. Under the veil of night, the temple grounds are filled with unease and the presence of bloodthirsty warriors. When the signal is Continue reading
On December 9, 2025, Lionsgate Limited will be releasing the 4K Ultra HD (SteelBook) for Battle Royale. This special release marks the 25th anniversary of Kinji Fukasaku’s cult classic, which will be available as a standalone (SteelBook movie only) or bundled with a T-shirt.
Battle Royale is an intense and brutal story about Japanese high school students who are sent off by their government with three Continue reading
“The Tiger” Teaser Poster
A new film from the country that brought us Merantau and The Raid franchise is being unleashed in the form of The Tiger, a martial arts thriller from up and coming filmmaker, Ardiansah Sulistiana and veteran writer Aris Nugraha (Preman Pensiun).
The Tiger stars Epy Kusandar (The Night Comes for Us), Cecep Arif Rahman (The Raid 2), Faris Fadjar Munggaran (Gundala), Donna Wardana (Sampai Titik Terakhirmu), Reza Hilman (Bonnie) and Fiolina Teja (Dia Bukan Manusia).
In a West Javanese village, Raka, a chili trader, accidentally sparks a conflict with the hot-tempered Dirga. Cornered in a fight, Raka unleashes an extraordinary silat style, resembling a tiger, a secret family tradition known as Pamacan. The viral video of his power attracts Koswara, a feared warrior determined to claim the legacy. With his men, Koswara Continue reading
Rumble in the Bronx | Blu-ray (Warner)
Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for Jackie Chan’s Rumble in the Bronx, a 1995 actioner directed by Stanley Tong (Kung Fu Yoga, Vanguard, Police Story 4: First Strike, Police Story 3: Supercop).
Remember the pitch? “To millions of action fans around the world he’s a living legend. If you’ve never seen him before, you’ve never seen action. He’s Jackie Chan and for years he has done something no other action star would dare dream. He’s performed all of his own stunts.”
A young man (Jackie Chan) visiting and helping his uncle (Bill Tung) in New York City finds himself forced to fight a street gang (headed by the late Marc Akerstream) and the mob with his martial art Continue reading
Japanese film legend Tatsuya Nakadai, best known for his haunting turn as Hidetora Ichimonji in 1985’s Ran, his fierce performance in 1962’s Harakiri and his breakout role in The Human Condition (1959-61), has died at the age of 92. The cause of death was reported as complications from pneumonia while hospitalized in Tokyo.
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers Continue reading
On December 2025/January 2026, Australian label Chameleon Films is releasing a Blu-ray (Region B) for Accident, a 2009 Hong Kong actioner from director Soi Cheang Pou Soi (Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In, SPL II: A Time for Consequences). A limited edition version will also be available with a 40-minute CD soundtrack by composer Xavier Jamaux.
We typically celebrate Hong Kong cinema for its wild, unrestrained action, but the uniqueness of Johnnie To’s Milkyway project is the way it increasingly searches Continue reading
On December 2025/January 2026, Australian label Chameleon Films is releasing a Blu-ray (Region B) for A Hero Never Dies, a 1998 Hong Kong actioner from director Johnnie To (Three, Office, Fulltime Killer).
The blood-splattered hero film ignited a golden age of Hong Kong cinema in the 1980s, full of outlandish action, mammoth body counts, and plots that might have been hewn out of granite. While Johnnie To came late to the genre, he gives us one of its most Continue reading
“Hunting Season” Theatrical Poster
Even during his post-legendary, A-list Hollywood status, Mel Gibson has been consistently delivering the action with films like Edge of Darkness, Get the Gringo, Blood Father, Dragged Across Concrete, and his directorial comebacks, Hacksaw Ridge and Flight Risk– not to mention the John Wick spin-off, The Continental.
Now, Mel is back yet again with Hunting Season, an upcoming thriller from director RJ Collins (Crescent City) and writer Adam Hampton (Out of Exile). It’s not quite Lethal Weapon 5, but it’ll at least give something Mel’s die hard fans want: action!
When a reclusive survivalist (Gibson) and his daughter rescue a mysterious, wounded woman from a river, they become entangled in a deadly web of violence and revenge, forcing them to confront a brutal Continue reading
“Unmatchable Match” Theatrical Poster
Director: Parkman Wong
Cast: Stephen Chow, Michael Chan Wai-Man, Vivian Chow Wai-Man, Shing Fui-On, Ricky Yi Fan-Wai, Lau Yuk-Gei, James Ha Chim-Si, Chow Cheong-Wa
Running Time: 98 min.
By Paul Bramhall
When it comes to writing on Hong Kong cinema it seemed that for many years the late 80’s and early 90’s were usually referenced as producing an almost limitless amount of triad flicks, to the point that many were considered indistinguishable from one another. To a degree it’s a fair criticism, but the passing of time has meant that the sheer volume of entries that populated the genre back then has now become a blessing rather than something for noses to be turned up at. In a current cinematic landscape were the kind of triad flicks that populated the genre 30 years ago are effectively banned from being made (and if they were, would be classified as a risk to national security), then to have as many in the back catalogue to explore as we do means that running out of titles to watch is thankfully still an unlikely occurrence.
The Unmatchable Match is one such title, an early prototype for the likes of Infernal Affairs that would come more than 10 years later. Shing Fui-On (Her Vengeance, God of Gamblers) plays a pump action shotgun brandishing gangster who, in the opening sequence, takes part in a vehicular heist (the kind that The Fast and The Furious would replicate many years later) to relieve an armoured vehicle of the South African blood diamonds that its escorting. Enlisting the aid of trusted Continue reading
The cryptocurrency landscape in 2025 looks more polished, accessible, and secure than ever. Exchanges have evolved from confusing trading terminals to all-in-one digital finance platforms — a shift that’s turned crypto from niche speculation into a mainstream investment avenue. But if you’re new to the scene, choosing the right exchange can feel like trying to find your way through a maze made of volatility and jargon.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve reviewed the 10 best crypto exchanges for beginners in 2025, focusing on five leading platforms that balance simplicity, trust, and innovation. Whether you want to start investing, trade altcoins, or explore passive income options, the exchanges below make it easy to enter the market safely and confidently.
Let’s break down the best picks for new crypto users this year.
Since launching in 2013, CEX.IO has grown into one of the most established and user-oriented crypto exchanges in the world. With over 185 countries supported and a user base numbering in the millions, it offers an ecosystem where beginners and experienced traders coexist comfortably. What makes CEX.IO stand out is how it integrates trading, payments, and yield-generating tools under one roof.
From quick purchases to advanced order books, everything feels tailored to accommodate users at different stages of their crypto journey. Whether you’re buying your first fraction of Bitcoin or exploring decentralized finance (DeFi) assets, the platform offers a balance of accessibility and depth.
CEX.IO’s interface is designed to make crypto feel less intimidating. The Instant Buy feature allows you to purchase major cryptocurrencies instantly at real-time market prices, skipping the typical trading chart complexity. The web dashboard is clean, and the CEX.IO mobile app (available on iOS and Android) mirrors that intuitive simplicity, making navigation effortless even for those unfamiliar with crypto platforms.
The mobile app also integrates wallet, trading, and earn functions in a single environment, meaning you can switch between holding, converting, and trading assets with just a few taps. Everything is built to minimize friction — you don’t need to be a trader to start using it effectively.
CEX.IO’s appeal lies in its complete ecosystem.
Another major advantage is how effortless it is to fund your account and make purchases. For example, you can buy bitcoin with moneygram directly through Instant Buy, allowing beginners to own BTC within minutes using familiar payment options.
Every feature is integrated within the same account, so you never feel like you’re juggling multiple services.
One of the strongest aspects of CEX.IO is the diversity of its payment methods. You can fund your account using credit or debit cards (Visa, Mastercard), bank transfers, and a wide array of digital payment options, including Google Pay, Apple Pay, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal (for U.S. customers), Epay, MoneyGram, Discover, Venmo, Payoneer, Wise, and Revolut.
This flexibility makes onboarding effortless for users around the world. Even if your local currency isn’t directly supported, your payment provider can automatically convert funds, ensuring you can start trading without delay.
CEX.IO operates across the United States, Europe, and other major regions under a strong regulatory foundation. It’s registered as a Money Services Business (MSB) with FinCEN in the U.S. and complies with strict international financial standards, including PCI DSS Level 1 for payment security.
In short, CEX.IO manages to be both approachable and compliant — a rare combination that gives newcomers peace of mind while maintaining professional-grade tools for experienced users.
If cryptocurrency exchanges were classrooms, Coinbase would be the friendly teacher who hands out visual aids. Founded in 2012, Coinbase has become synonymous with simplicity in the crypto industry, serving over 100 million users globally. Its greatest strength lies in making complex blockchain concepts accessible to anyone with a smartphone and a bank card.
Coinbase’s focus on regulation, educational content, and user experience has made it one of the first stops for beginners entering crypto.
Coinbase’s design philosophy centers around user comfort. When you log in, you’re greeted with clean charts, plain-English descriptions of assets, and easy access to your portfolio. You can buy or sell crypto with just a few taps, and the process is so intuitive it often feels like using a modern fintech app rather than a trading platform.
The “Learn and Earn” feature even pays users small crypto rewards for watching short educational videos — a clever way to teach blockchain concepts without overwhelming new investors.
Coinbase offers a balanced suite of tools:
It’s an ecosystem built to grow with you — simple at first, but with enough depth to sustain long-term use.
Coinbase supports major credit and debit cards, ACH, SEPA, Faster Payments, and PayPal (for select regions). While the list isn’t as exhaustive as CEX.IO’s, its integration with familiar payment networks helps streamline the onboarding process for U.S. and European customers.
Card purchases are processed instantly, while bank transfers take longer but often come with lower fees.
Coinbase is publicly traded on the NASDAQ (COIN) and operates as a fully regulated entity in multiple jurisdictions. It’s licensed in 40+ U.S. states and complies with AML/KYC laws globally. Its transparency, backed by public financial filings, adds an extra layer of trust — a major comfort for newcomers navigating a market often clouded by misinformation.
Binance remains the largest crypto exchange by trading volume, boasting a presence in over 180 countries. Founded by Changpeng Zhao (CZ) in 2017, it quickly became the go-to hub for anyone wanting access to a wide variety of assets and advanced trading instruments.
For beginners, Binance can feel like stepping into a cockpit — full of tools, numbers, and flashing indicators — but with its Lite mode, it has significantly lowered the barrier for entry.
The Binance Lite interface distills the core functionality into an accessible format. You can buy, sell, and convert cryptocurrencies in seconds without diving into charts. As your confidence grows, you can toggle to the advanced dashboard for full trading tools, making Binance a platform that scales with your experience.
The mobile app is one of the most comprehensive in the industry, supporting price alerts, staking, and even peer-to-peer (P2P) exchanges.
Binance’s arsenal of features is extensive:
Few platforms match Binance’s versatility, though it may initially feel overwhelming compared to CEX.IO or Coinbase.
Binance accepts bank transfers, credit/debit cards, SEPA, Faster Payments, and P2P trades using local payment methods. It also supports regional payment gateways in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, giving it a truly global footprint.
However, card fees and fiat availability vary by country. Users should verify supported currencies in their region before initiating deposits.
Binance’s regulatory status differs across jurisdictions. It holds registrations or operational licenses in several regions, including France, Italy, and Australia, and has formed separate entities (like Binance.US) to meet U.S. compliance.
While Binance continues to strengthen its regulatory footing, it remains a powerhouse for liquidity, selection, and innovation — though beginners might prefer to start with simpler interfaces before exploring its full range.
Founded in 2011, Kraken is one of the oldest and most respected crypto exchanges still standing — a rarity in a market that’s seen countless platforms come and go. Known for its commitment to security and regulatory compliance, Kraken has built its reputation brick by brick, earning the trust of both retail and institutional investors.
Its name, inspired by a mythical sea creature, fits its presence: deep, steady, and formidable in turbulent markets.
Kraken’s interface is practical and deliberate. It doesn’t try to dazzle you with color or animation — instead, it offers a structured experience where every feature is exactly where you’d expect it.
The Kraken mobile app simplifies trading for beginners, while Kraken Pro offers advanced charting and order types for experienced traders. The ability to toggle between the two ensures you won’t outgrow the platform as your skills develop.
Kraken’s platform feels engineered for reliability. While it may lack the social and lifestyle perks of some rivals, it excels at what matters most: integrity and stability.
Kraken supports bank transfers (SWIFT, SEPA, FedWire, ACH) and, in certain regions, credit/debit cards. It’s not the most card-friendly platform, but its banking integrations are robust and optimized for lower fees.
Deposits typically take one to five business days, depending on the method, which aligns with its deliberate, security-first approach.
Kraken holds multiple registrations worldwide, including as a Money Services Business in the United States and under various EU and Canadian frameworks. It adheres strictly to AML and KYC requirements and was among the first major exchanges to implement a public Proof of Reserves audit.
In short, Kraken offers a safety net for beginners who want to prioritize trust and transparency over flashiness.
Crypto.com has built its brand around a simple mission: bringing crypto into everyday life. Launched in 2016 and headquartered in Singapore, the platform gained global recognition through high-profile sponsorships (including the naming rights to the Los Angeles arena) and its sleek mobile-first approach.
Its tagline, “Fortune Favors the Brave,” reflects its push toward making crypto not just an investment but a lifestyle choice.
The Crypto.com App is designed for modern users who live on their phones. The interface feels like a cross between a bank app and a digital wallet, allowing you to buy, sell, earn, and spend crypto in minutes.
Onboarding is straightforward, with instant KYC verification and simplified fiat on-ramps. The app’s “one-tap buy” experience is ideal for newcomers who want minimal setup and maximum convenience.
Its feature set blurs the line between fintech and crypto — making it an appealing option for users who want crypto seamlessly woven into their daily spending.
Crypto.com supports credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and Apple Pay/Google Pay in select regions. It also allows users to top up their Visa Card with fiat or crypto, further bridging the gap between digital and traditional finance.
While not as globally inclusive as CEX.IO’s range of payment gateways, its integrations are ideal for users in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.
Crypto.com operates under multiple licenses, including Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) registrations in several jurisdictions. It adheres to international KYC/AML standards and maintains transparent proof-of-reserves reporting.
The exchange’s strong compliance, combined with an everyday-use focus, makes it an attractive choice for users who want crypto integrated into their lifestyle rather than confined to a trading dashboard.
For beginners in 2025, the crypto exchange landscape offers something for everyone — from the user-friendly simplicity of Coinbase to the global reach of Binance, and the bulletproof reputation of Kraken.
But CEX.IO stands out as the most balanced, beginner-focused option overall. Its combination of accessible tools, broad payment support, and global reach makes it the natural starting point for anyone looking to explore crypto safely and efficiently. Whether you’re buying Bitcoin, staking tokens, or exploring new ways to manage digital assets, CEX.IO gives you the tools — and the confidence — to make your first step a solid one.
As always, do your research, start small, and remember: in crypto, patience and prudence are the genuine keys to fortune.
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