Prison Walls: Abashiri Prison 1-3 | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Prison Walls : Abashiri Prison 1-3 | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Prison Walls : Abashiri Prison 1-3 | Blu-ray (Eureka)

RELEASE DATE: May 27, 2024

On May 27, 2024, Eureka will be releasing a Blu-ray (Region A/B) for Prison Walls, a 2-disc set that will include 1965’s Abashiri Prison, Another Abashiri Prison Story, and Abashiri Prison: Saga of Homesickness.

Constructed in the late nineteenth century to house political prisoners, Japan’s infamous Abashiri Prison served as the inspiration for a popular and prolific run of yakuza movies released between 1965 and 1972. The Masters of Cinema series is proud to present the first three entries in this landmark series, directed by the “King of Cult” Teruo Ishii (Blind Woman’s Curse) and starring a titan of Japanese genre cinema, Ken Takakura (Golgo 13).

In Abashiri Prison, Takakura stars as Shinichi Tachibana, a yakuza sent to Abashiri as punishment for an attack on a rival gangster. He intends Continue reading

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

The Crow | 4K UHD (Paramount)

The Crow | 4K UHD (Paramount)

The Crow | 4K UHD (Paramount)

RELEASE DATE: May 7, 2024

On May 7, 2024, Paramount is releasing the 4K Ultra HD for The Crow, a 1994 thriller from director Alex Proyas (I, Robot) that stars Brandon Lee (Legacy of Rage, Rapid Fire) and Ernie Hudson (The Ghostbusters). The film is often overshadowed by the death of Lee, who was tragically wounded on set.

Based on a series of cult comic books by James O’Barr, The Crow stars Lee as Eric Draven, a rock guitarist who is killed, along with his fiancée, on the eve of their wedding and returns from the dead as “The Crow” to seek revenge.

The Crow also stars David Patrick Kelly (Warriors), Michael Wincott (Nope), Rochelle Davis (Revenge of the Devil Bat), Bai Ling (Maximum Impact), Jon Polito (Miller’s Crossing), Laurence Mason (True Romance), Tony Todd (Candyman), Michael Continue reading

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

Won Jin ‘Scorpion King’ and Casanova Wong ‘Human Tornado’ collide in ‘Tiger’s Trigger’ arriving in March

"Tiger’s Trigger" Theatrical Poster

“Tiger’s Trigger” Theatrical Poster

A match made in kung fu movie heaven? Korean martial arts stars Casanova Wong (City Ninja, South Shaolin vs. North Shaolin) and Won Jin (The Suspect, Operation Scorpio) are teaming up for Lee Gang Wook’s Tiger’s Trigger, which is due for a domestic release in March this year.

Very little is known about the film, but one thing is definite: It’ll be the first time the two will share the screen as leads (set photo).

Won Jin marked himself as a legend of kung fu cinema when he appeared in Operation Scorpio. In the film, he showed amazing physical dexterity and flexibility with kicks that seemed to defy gravity – and let’s not forget his famous “scorpion stance”, hence his nickname “The Scorpion King”.

But for old school Continue reading

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Monstrous Corpse, A (1981) Review

"A Monstrous Corpse" Theatrical Poster

“A Monstrous Corpse” Theatrical Poster

Director: Kang Beomgu
Cast: Chiang Ming, Yu Gwang-ok, Hong Yun-jeong, Kim Wang-guk, Baek Song, Pauline Wong
Running Time: 85 min.

By Paul Bramhall 

As far as baffling remake choices go, the obscure Korean horror oddity A Monstrous Corpse from 1981 must surely be up there as one of the top contenders. A reimagining of the 1974 Italian and Spanish co-production Let Sleeping Corpses Lie, director Jorge Grau’s Lake District set tale of the undead predated the likes of George A. Romero’s Dawn of the Dead and Lucio Fulci’s Zombie by a number of years. It would arguably be the latter productions which popularised the zombie genre, particularly in Europe, so it’s all the more interesting that director Kang Beomgu would choose the comparatively more sedate earlier outing as the source material for his own take on the genre.

From a purely historical perspective, A Monstrous Corpse is significant in that it proves the Korean film industry produced a zombie movie 35 years before Train to Busan was released, a title which became frequently referred to as the countries first attempt at the zombie genre. Is there a reason for A Monstrous Corpse to have faded into obscurity? It’s worth noting that Korean cinema from the 1980’s in general is still not as widely available as the decades the precede it, with the last few years seeing a steady stream of classics from the 1960’s and 1970’s be re-released for new audiences to discover. Korea spent much of the 80’s in the shadow of military dictator Continue reading

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

Ready to kill some Nazis? New poster for Guy Ritchie’s ‘Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare’ starring Henry Cavill

“Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” Theatrical Poster

In April, Guy Ritchie will unleash The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, an upcoming actioner based on Damien Lewis’ 2014 book, Churchill’s Secret Warriors: The Explosive True Story of the Special Forces Desperadoes of WWII.

In the film, British military recruits a small group of highly-skilled soldiers to strike against Nazi forces behind enemy lines during World War II.

The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare features an all-star cast that includes Henry Cavill (Man of Steel), Eiza González (Ambulance), Alan Ritchson (Fast X), Henry Golding (Assassin Club), Alex Pettyfer (Elvis & Nixon), Hero Fiennes Tiffin (First Love), Babs Olusanmokun (Dune), Freddie Fox (The Three Musketeers), Til Schweiger (Inglourious Basterds), Henrique Zaga (The Stand) and Continue reading

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Motorway | Blu-ray (Chameleon Films)

RELEASE DATE: April 2024

In April of 2024, Chameleon Films will be releasing the Blu-ray (Region B) for Motorway, a 2011 Hong kong thriller from director Pou-Soi Cheang (SPL II: A Time for Consequences). The film will be available in both a standard and a Limited Pressed CD soundtrack version.

Motorway stars Shawn Yue (The Brink), Anthony Wong (Untold Story), Michelle Yip Suen (Dream Home), Gordon Lam (I Did It My Way) and Josie Ho Chiu Yee (Twins Effect).

This radically pared back action film transforms Continue reading

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

What is the Most Accurate Way to Watch Classic Cinema? 

Living in the time of ultrafast internet has been a godsend in delivering us to the golden age of film collecting. The web has provided ways for films otherwise lost to be shared openly, and the proliferation of Blu-rays means we can store our media at the highest levels of detail possible. For decades, we’ve been told that more detail in higher-definitions offers a better viewing experience, but for classic films, the truth isn’t so simple. 

Simplicity isn’t Simple 

The idea commonly stated in the digital age that more equals better is a result of market competition pushing new products as much as anything else. In some more technical ways, the claim can be true. Having a faster device with more storage is a positive thing, allowing us to accomplish more in less time. When it comes to the art and entertainment contained in and displayed by this technology, challenges to the idea begin to arise. More complexity and fidelity in these realms aren’t necessarily tied to better quality, and the same is true in many artistic and entertainment mediums. In truth, the core of the experience can be tied to a kind of pure simplicity, and this is something artists have understood forever. 

Hemingway best expressed this ideal when his storytelling was criticized by Faulkner for being too simplistic. Hemingway responded, “Poor Faulkner. Does he really think big emotions come from big words?”. This central tenant of effectiveness through limitation applied to his writing, it applies to film, and it applies to many other forms of entertainment too. Pollock’s abstract expressionism, for example, is not less than hyper-realism despite offering less technical detail at a glance. 

Jackson Pollock’s Untitled (Green Silver“ (CC BY-SA 2.0) by divya_ 

Similar claims can be made about interactive entertainment, as is commonly illustrated today in the realm of online casino gaming. With software, slot games online can offer infinitely more complexity and detail than physical machines. This would be another case of unnecessary overkill, however, so it doesn’t happen. Instead, online casinos rely on features like free spins and deposit matches to generate advantages brick-and-mortar establishments can’t. In addition to mobile accessibility, choice, and convenience are what give these new casinos an edge, as they again work from a simple core. 

Back in film, the biggest differences provided by the digital age are seen directly in the quality, color, and dimensions of each frame. Great fiction filmmakers aren’t trying to mirror real life on the screen, they’re trying to tell a story with the full understanding of how filming translates the experience. Kurosawa is one of our favorites who understood these limitations in films like Seven Samurai and Yojimbo. He knew that they would be limited to black and white, he knew the image quality would be limited to early film cameras, and he built his stories around these elements. Like with Hemingway, Pollock, sports, slots, and so many other examples, less didn’t mean a lesser experience. 

The Best and Easier Ways to Watch 

When you watch a film from someone like Kurosawa, you do so with the understanding that there is a definite way he intended the audience to engage. You also go in knowing that it’s often not possible to recapture this experience even with the best modern technology. You’ll never be able to perfectly reproduce the cinema setups of the 1950s, and you’ll never be able to reproduce CRT blur on a modern LCD screen. So, what can you do? 

The first option which is the most broadly applicable to most viewers is to explore the viewing settings on their TV. Even before the advent of smart TVs, most televisions launched with color adjustment modes and presets. The one we’re interested in is commonly called cinema or filmmaker mode. 

This setting will adjust the color, brightness, and contrast in a way that you’re likely not used to, which is why it’s often skipped over. It will also far better capture a film closer to the original spirit intended by the filmmakers. Going from the aggressive vivid setting to this mode can seem to mute the display, and it’s not always the best choice for modern media, but it’s a huge help in recapturing the feeling of classic cinema. 

A less common solution available to the bigger tech fans in the audience is to use a VR headset. Home theatre VR apps emulate a movie theatre experience from the comfort of your own home, giving you a way to watch classic films back on the big screen. You can even modify the viewing options with the cinema mode function to provide an experience more accurate to what was originally experienced. This approach can even be shared with VR-donning friends. 

Seven Samurai (1954)“ (CC BY 2.0) by japanesefilmarchive 

With all this said about how much viewing classic media has changed, there’s also the undeniable fact that taste is subjective. If you get more out of one type of viewing than another, even if it’s contrary to the filmmaker’s intent, then that’s still a valid choice. If possible, we would still encourage viewers to attempt the intended form of engagement, if only for better context and appreciation of the road traveled. Just maybe bypass collecting VHS tapes if you do lean more into the classic route. 

Posted in News |

Unity of Title: A Requirement for True Joint Tenancy

Have you ever seen a developer buy out and flatten a bunch of individual houses or buildings and put up one giant development in their place?

This often happens when the character of a neighborhood changes from a quiet-residential or a demure set of family businesses into a trading hub. This is easy enough and even profitable for contractors and the local economy, but it poses many legal challenges.

Combining smaller lots into one real estate development requires a Unity of Title. Learn more about how this works and why the law needs it in this quick guide.

Unity of Title

To an owner or property developer, a Unity of Title is like a special agreement with the local municipality. When the developer or owner has two or more distinct lots they want to use for one real estate development, they enter into a written agreement with the local municipality.

In this document, the owner agrees not to sell or lease the original lots as separate units. Instead, each tenant in the building or set of buildings will have an equal, undivided interest in the development.

Most jurisdictions also require an opinion of title as a foundation for the Unity of Title process.

Opinion of Title

An opinion of title isn’t what the real estate lawyer thinks about the place. Instead, it’s a very detailed and comprehensive breakdown of all the legal matters related to the lots the developer or owner wants to unify. This process ensures no mortgages, special exceptions, or easements on any of the properties.

How the Process Works

First, a real estate attorney has to get the deeds of all the properties to be unified. These will help them prepare an opinion of title and see if the development is legal in that area. The completed opinion of title will then be bundled with proof of tax payments, deeds, and any other information the locality requires.

Then, you’ll need to complete a particular Unity of Title form or agreement. These vary between municipalities and states, but they’re all essentially the same promise not to split the use of the properties. Many municipalities require both steps to be completed before they approve building plans.

Why Is There All This Hassle?

The Unity of Title process is really a convention of property law to stop people from fighting with each other or the property’s owner(s). Since all tenants have the same (undivided) rights to the entire development, you don’t need a court to impose easements or resolve disputes. It also allows the owners to establish true joint tenancy in cases where owners may have initially paid unequal amounts for the properties.

Property Law: A Fundamental Thing No One Talks About

The real estate market is always open to innovative new developments. However, if you want to combine smaller lots into one development, you must go through the Unity of Title process.

The Unity of Title process helps the local municipality see when land is being used in a new way. It also has distinct legal benefits for owners and renters of that development, including true joint tenancy.

Unity of Title is a small part of a large body of property law that you interact with every day. Gain more useful knowledge by exploring the rest of our blog.

Posted in News |

Jet Li to make his return to acting with Don Lee, Iko Uwais, Tony Jaa for an all-star actioner titled ‘Nonstop’?

"Nonstop" Teaser Poster

“Nonstop” Teaser Poster

An all-star martial arts actioner that will feature Don Lee/Ma Dong-Seok (The Roundup), Iko Uwais (The Raid), Tony Jaa (Ong-Bak) and Jet Li (Once Upon A Time In China) is in early stages of development.

Before we tell you more about this high anticipated movie, let us show you how you can win big by visiting betwinnereg.com/code-promo/.

News of the project, titled Nonstop – that originated from a December Instagram post by one of the aforementioned leads, Lee, by way of a Teaser Poster – left the public wondering if it were just a meaningless social media post, but now, it has been confirmed by Lee himself, via Variety:

“I still have a project left for Marvel. Also The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil, which I’m remaking with Sylvester Stallone. And then I’m getting ready for something called Nonstop, which is an actual franchise where Asian martial art actors Iko Uwais, Tony Jaa and Continue reading

Posted in News |

Sex and Fury | Blu-ray (Discotek Media)

Sex and Fury | Blu-ray (Discotek Media)

Sex and Fury | Blu-ray (Discotek Media)

RELEASE DATE: May 28, 2024

On May 28, 2024, Discotek Media is releasing the Blu-ray (Region A) for Sex and Fury (read our review), a 1973  ‘pinky violence’ film from director Norifumi Suzuki (Killing Machine) that stars Reiko Ike (New Battles Without Honor and Humanity, Cops vs Thugs). The film will be presented with a Brand New HD transfer.

During the Meiji era, a gambler called Ocho takes revenge on three gangsters who killed her father, shelters a wanted anarchist and confronts a British spy.

Norifumi Suzuki’s Sex and Fury owes some of its lasting appeal to its purported influence on Kill Bill. There are certainly visuals and themes that will remind modern audiences of Tarantino’s epic, but Sex and Fury is a scuzzier affair Continue reading

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

Is Gaming Actually Bad for Students?

In recent years, the discourse surrounding the influence of gaming on students has gained momentum, driven by growing concerns related to screen time, academic performance, and potential social implications. Amidst the prevailing negative narrative that tends to overshadow the conversation, it becomes imperative to delve into the realm of research and critically examine whether gaming is inherently detrimental to the overall well-being and academic success of students. Exploring the multifaceted aspects of this debate allows for a nuanced understanding, enabling us to discern the intricate interplay between gaming and various facets of students’ lives.

Enriched Cognitive Skills

Video games, often vilified, demonstrate surprising cognitive benefits for students. Research indicates that specific genres of games enhance cognitive functions, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and spatial awareness. Games, especially those requiring strategic thinking, compel players to make quick decisions, plan ahead, and adapt to dynamic scenarios. These mental exercises are akin to navigating academic challenges, fostering skills essential for success in various academic disciplines.

Enhanced Hand-Eye Coordination

The intricate demands of many video games contribute significantly to the improvement of hand-eye coordination. Games requiring precision and quick reflexes serve as virtual training grounds for dexterity. This motor skill development extends beyond the gaming realm, impacting real-world activities such as playing musical instruments or participating in sports. The unexpected synergy between gaming and physical coordination challenges the stereotypical perception of gaming as a sedentary and isolating activity.

Flourished Social Skills

Contrary to the belief that gaming fosters social isolation, online multiplayer games provide a unique platform for students to interact globally, nurturing social connections. Collaborative gaming experiences demand effective teamwork, communication, and conflict resolution – skills valuable not only in the virtual world but also in real-life social situations. Want to present your friend a gift? Check out giftly review for a convenient way to do so! In an era where digital interactions are increasingly prevalent, gaming emerges as a conduit for socialization, challenging preconceived notions.

Stress Alleviation and Relaxation

In the face of academic stressors, gaming emerges as a constructive outlet, offering students a means of stress relief and relaxation. Immersive virtual worlds provide an escape, allowing students to recharge and return to their academic responsibilities with renewed focus. Responsible gaming, integrated into a balanced routine, contributes to overall well-being by offering a healthy diversion from the rigors of academic life.

Effective Time Management Cultivation

The concern that gaming hampers time management is not unwarranted, but a nuanced approach reveals a different narrative. Responsible gaming, with clearly defined boundaries, can contribute positively to the development of effective time management skills. By allocating specific time slots for gaming within a well-structured routine, students learn to balance responsibilities and leisure activities, fostering discipline and time-management prowess.

Impactful Educational Gamification

An evolving trend in gaming, educational gamification integrates academic content into games, revolutionizing the learning landscape. These games, designed to impart knowledge interactively, cater to diverse learning styles. Educational gamification challenges the traditional notion that gaming is solely for entertainment, proving that gaming can align with educational goals and provide an engaging learning experience.

Mitigating Excessive Gaming Concerns

While recognizing the cognitive benefits of gaming, concerns related to excessive screen time and potential sleep disturbances are valid. Addressing these concerns involves establishing guidelines and encouraging breaks from screens to ensure a balanced approach to leisure activities. Mitigating potential downsides of gaming is crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle for students.

Parental Guidance as a Pillar

Parents, recognizing their pivotal role, contribute significantly to shaping a healthy gaming environment for students. Open communication, setting reasonable time limits, and monitoring content are essential components of responsible parental involvement. The collaboration between parents and educators further ensures that gaming remains a positive and enjoyable aspect of students’ lives, fostering a balanced and healthy gaming culture.

Recognizing Gaming Disorder

While extolling the benefits, it is equally crucial to acknowledge the existence of gaming disorder, recognized by the World Health Organization. Gaming disorder involves impaired control, prioritizing gaming over other activities, and continuing to game despite negative consequences. Early identification of signs of excessive gaming is essential for intervention and support, underlining the need for mental health awareness in the context of gaming habits.

Promoting Diversity in Leisure Activities

While gaming presents numerous benefits, promoting a diverse range of leisure activities is paramount. Encouraging students to explore a variety of hobbies, both indoor and outdoor, contributes to a well-rounded lifestyle. Exposure to diverse interests aids students in discovering their passions, developing new skills, and maintaining a healthy balance between screen time and other engaging pursuits. By fostering an environment that values variety in leisure activities, educators and parents collectively guide students toward a more holistic and fulfilling approach to their free time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the intricate relationship between gaming and students unfolds with a myriad of dimensions, encompassing both positive and negative aspects. Responsible gaming, harmoniously integrated with academic pursuits and other activities, emerges as a catalyst for cognitive development, social skills enhancement, and stress relief. The essence lies in cultivating a robust and healthy gaming culture that not only acknowledges the inherent benefits but also proactively addresses potential challenges. By fostering a mindful and resilient approach, educators and parents alike empower students to navigate the dynamic terrain of the digital world, ensuring that gaming remains a positive and enriching component of their overall academic and personal development.

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Tips on Game Localization: How to Produce Credible Video Game Content

In the ever-increasing realm of video games, localization plays a pivotal function in making games available and exciting for a worldwide audience. Effective game localization no longer best includes translating text but additionally encompasses adapting cultural nuances, idioms, and even graphical factors. This weblog put up ambitions to offer complete suggestions on producing credible video game content through meticulous game localization.

Understanding the Importance of Game Localization

Game localization is going past mere language translation. It entails tailoring the gaming experience to the unique cultural context of the target market. This guarantees that gamers from special areas not only recognize the sport but also experience an experience of immersion and connection. Localization contributes appreciably to a game’s fulfillment, fostering fantastic evaluations and player engagement.

Tip 1: Start Localization Early in the Development Process

To acquire credible recreation localization, developers must integrate the manner into the early tiers of sports improvement. Planning for localization from the outset leads to a smoother and extra cohesive revel. This includes considering cultural factors in storyline improvement, character design, or even the user interface.

Tip 2: Hire Professional Translators with Gaming Expertise

When deciding on translators for recreation localization, prioritize those with information in each language proficiency and gaming. This ensures that the translated content material is no longer as effective as it should be in conveying the meant message but also aligns with gaming terminology and cultural references. Read in scamfighter review and Writingpapersucks can provide insights into the credibility of translation services.

Tip 3: Consider Regional Differences in Language and Culture

Different areas may also have various linguistic norms, cultural references, and even sensitivities. It’s crucial to tailor the sport’s content, therefore. This includes adapting jokes, references, and photographs to align with the cultural context of the target market. Real critiques on platforms like Scamfighter can guide builders in choosing localization services that excel in know-how and addressing those nuances.

Tip 4: Test and Iterate with Local Audiences

Before finalizing the localized model, developers should conduct thorough testing with representatives from the target audience. This not simplest allows identify potential problems however additionally offers treasured feedback on cultural appropriateness, language nuances, and common gaming enjoyment. Iterative checking out ensures that the very last product resonates well with the intended player base.

Tip 5: Ensure Consistency in Tone and Style

Maintaining consistency in tone and fashion throughout all localized content is vital for developing a continuing gaming experience. This consistency extends beyond textual factors to consist of voiceovers, person dialogues, and even tune. Attention to this information enhances the general credibility of the sport and fosters tremendous critiques.

Tip 6: Implement Dynamic Text Handling Systems

Games often encompass dynamic factors, together with changing dialogues and in-recreation notifications. Implementing dynamic text handling structures allows for more flexibility in accommodating diverse languages and textual content lengths. This prevents troubles like textual content overflow or cut-off, making sure a sophisticated and expert look in all localized variations.

Tip 7: Provide Options for Player Customization

Allowing players to customize certain components in their gaming experience, such as language options, subtitles, and region-precise content, complements participant engagement. This flexibility demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and caters to a numerous participant base, in the long run leading to greater positive evaluations.

Tip 8: Stay Informed about Emerging Trends in Localization Technology

As generation evolves, so do the equipment and techniques available for recreation localization. Staying knowledgeable about rising developments, inclusive of machine translation, can resource builders in making knowledgeable choices about the greenest and most effective localization techniques. However, it’s vital to stabilize technological improvements with the desire for human contact, as automated translations might also lack the finesse required for gaming content.

Expanding on the intricacies of sports localization, it is vital to delve into the significance of narrative consistency. A nicely-crafted storyline forms the spine of many hit video games, and while undergoing localization, keeping the integrity of the narrative turns into paramount. The venture lies no longer best in translating words but in conveying the feelings, nuances, and cultural references that make the tale compelling.

Tip 9: Preserve Narrative Consistency

Localization must not compromise the original narrative’s integrity. Developers need to work carefully with translators to make sure that the essence of the storyline stays intact. This entails maintaining person personalities, plot twists, and cultural factors that make contributions to the overall narrative. Consistent storytelling throughout unique language versions contributes to the sport’s credibility and avoids discrepancies that is probably highlighted in evaluations.

Tip 10: Leverage Cultural Consultation

In-depth cultural consultation may be instrumental in navigating the intricacies of narrative localization. Consulting with specialists or cultural advisors from the target place can provide precious insights into the appropriateness of certain story elements. This step provides an extra layer of authenticity to the sport, mitigating the risk of negative critiques associated with cultural insensitivity or inaccuracies.

Conclusion:

In the end, producing credible video game content material thru powerful localization is a multifaceted procedure that needs attention to elements, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to player pride. Builders can create games that resonate with international audiences by beginning the localization system early, hiring professionals with gaming expertise, thinking about local differences, and incorporating participant remarks.

To check real reviews on writingpapersucks can guide developers in selecting dependable localization offerings. Ultimately, the fulfillment of a localized game lies in its capability to transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries, growing an immersive enjoyment that garners tremendous opinions and lasting player engagement.

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One-Percent Warrior | aka One Percenter (2023) Review

"One-Percent Warrior" Theatrical Poster

“One-Percent Warrior” Theatrical Poster

AKA: 1%er
Director: Yudai Yamaguchi
Cast: Tak Sakaguchi, Kohei Fukuyama, Harumi Kanon, Taro Suruga, Togo Ishii, Sho Aoyagi, Itsuji Itao, Kenjiro Ishimaru, Keisuke Horibe, Ohji Hiroi
Running Time: 85 min.

By Paul Bramhall

One-Percent Warrior offers up a welcome reunion of 3 of Japan’s most prominent names in action cinema, director Yudai Yamaguchi, star Tak Sakaguchi, and choreographer Kensuke Sonomura. The last time the trio crossed paths in the same capacity was on the 2011 Sushi Typhoon double whammy of Yakuza Weapon and Dead Ball (which saw Yamaguchi remaking his own Battlefield Baseball from 2003, also starring Takaguchi), so it feels like cause for excitement to see them unexpectedly reunite 12 years later.

Things have changed a lot in the time that’s passed. Yamaguchi has mainly stuck to TV work, with his occasional ventures back into filmmaking coming with such inspired titles as Chin-Yu-Ki: The Journey to the West with Farts. Tak Sakaguchi famously retired from action filmmaking in 2016 with Re:Born, and subsequently proceeded to turn up in so many action movies since that we’re already into double figures, including 2020’s Crazy Samurai Musashi (which used a 77 minute one-take fight sequence he shot in 2011 from an abandoned Sono Sion project) and most recently Bad City. Notably it’s Sonomura who directed Bad City, his sophomore directorial feature after 2019’s Hydra, who has really come into his own as a fight choreographer since last working Continue reading

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

Deal on Fire! Bloodfight & Ironheart | Blu-ray | Only $17.99 – Expires soon!

Double Feature: Bloodfight and Ironheart | Blu-ray (MVD Rewind)

Double Feature: Bloodfight and Ironheart | Blu-ray (MVD Rewind)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray Double Feature for 1989’s Bloodfight and 1992’s Ironheart, both starring martial arts cult legend Bolo Yeung (Soul of Chiba, The Big Boss 2, Enter the Dragon).

From Shuji Goto (Angel Target) comes Bloodfight (aka Final Fight), a Hong Kong-produced Bloodsport-type flick that also stars Simon Yam (The Mission), Yasuaki Kurata (The Empty Hands) and John Ladalski (The Chinese Stuntman).

Bloodfight takes you back to the ”arena of death”. Chang (Bolo) is the ruthless and unbeatable title holder of the World Free-Fighting Tournament. Kai (Yasuaki), an ex-champion believes different and trains a young student to capture the title. In the final match, Chang shows no sympathy for his young challenger and leaves him motionless in a pool of blood. Kai, outraged, challenges Chang to a one-on-one Continue reading

Posted in Deals on Fire!, News |

NFL 2024 Mock Draft Tips, Tricks, and Examples

With the 2023 NFL season officially wrapped and the new league year around the corner, it’s time to start talking about next year’s fantasy season.

Nearly 30 million Americans play fantasy football, and that number is increasing with each passing year. Most of these people are casual players who don’t take it too seriously, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare for your draft.

The more you know about players, positions, and stats, the better you’ll draft and the better your team will do. There’s still an element of luck, however, which is why doing an NFL 2024 mock draft is always a great idea.

Mock drafts prepare you by telling you which players are most valued and where they might fall in your draft. You can do as many drafts as needed before your official fantasy draft, but keep reading and we’ll help you get the most out of your mock with some tips and examples.

Why Do an NFL 2024 Mock Draft?

The biggest benefit of doing a fantasy football mock draft is to gain a better understanding of the draft process. It’s the best way to practice for your draft by learning how your draft client works, but more importantly, where each NFL player might fall when your draft officially begins.

When you go into a fantasy draft blind, you’ll end up taking the top players on the list. Not only is this boring, but you won’t be able to construct a team that can compete in your league – you may as well auto-draft at that point.

Doing a mock will give you the lay of the land. Doing multiple mock drafts will help you get a real sense of what every player’s value is with a wide variety of people. Ultimately, they’ll help you succeed in your league.

Know Your League Rules

When you go to do your first mock draft, you’ll notice many different choices for draft styles. You’ll have to choose the type of league you want to mock draft in – PPR, standard, IDP, etc. You’ll also have to choose the number of other users you want to draft with.

This is where it helps to understand the rules that your league is using. The different league types will give different positions and players more or less value. For example, a points-per-reception (PPR) league places high value on wide receivers and running backs who catch a lot of passes.

If you’re in a standard league, you’ll take the most neutral approach to building a fantasy team. Individual defensive player (IDP) leagues require you to draft defensive players rather than whole defensive squads.

So, when you’re only in one league, the best thing to do is understand the rules and make sure your mock drafts always align with those rules.

Auction Drafts

Another thing to consider is whether your league does a standard snake draft or an auction draft. Snake drafts start by going through the draft order, then going back through in reverse order to maintain fairness. Auction drafts involve bidding fake money (usually a budget of $200) on players to build out your team.

Auction drafts are usually for more advanced fantasy football players, but they give you more control. Mock auction drafts can help you understand how much you should be valuing different players, but it’s never fully indicative of what the competitors in your league will do.

Do Several Drafts

Doing as many mock drafts as possible leading up to your real draft is important. You’ll never know what your draft position will be until you log into your draft client for the real thing. By doing multiple drafts, you can build several different teams at different draft positions.

Mock drafting often will also give you the chance to try out different player combinations and see what you like the most. You might decide to take an RB in the first round of one draft, then a WR in the first round of another one, and see how your teams shake out after that.

Timing Your Mock Drafts

Every seasoned fantasy football player knows that the best time for a fantasy draft is during the week between the last preseason and the first regular season game. Similarly, it’s important to space out your mock drafts as news breaks, players get injured, and teams trade players.

You should do one last mock draft in the days before your real draft. This will prepare you for anything you missed during the offseason.

Make Notes While You Draft

Anytime you’re preparing for football betting, whether it’s fantasy football or NFL best bets, you should take notes. With each passing mock draft, you may discover something that could help you in the real draft.

Depending on the platform you’re using, you’ll get your mock results in an email. You can go even further than that, however, and make notes while you’re drafting. Track the biggest names and players you’re interested in so you can see where they’re moving over time.

The last thing you want is for a player you really wanted to go a few picks ahead of where you thought they’d go. Notes will show you how they’re moving up the draft board and tell you when you should pull the trigger.

Use Mocks in Conjunction with Research

Mock drafts are an essential resource for anyone building a virtual team, but they’re not the only form of research you can do. There’s a real cottage industry around fantasy football these days, so there’s a lot of information available.

A lot of this information is just noise, but some of it is valuable. Figure out who the most reputable fantasy draft experts are and go through the pre-draft process with their help.

Build the Best Fake NFL Team in 2024

These NFL 2024 mock draft tips should help you navigate your way through the pre-draft process. As we said, the more mock drafts you do, the more prepared you’ll be for the real thing.

Champions don’t auto-draft, they spend a lot of time developing a strategy before they build the perfect team. It’s never too early to start mock drafting, so choose a platform and draft a team today.

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