"CZ12" Chinese Theatrical Poster

While promoting Police Story 2013 in Singapore last year, Jackie Chan mentioned the possibility of a sequel to 2012’s Chinese Zodiac (aka CZ12), which would technically mean the 4th chapter of the Armour of God series.

Update: Asian Hawk fans, rejoice! Looks like Chinese Zodiac 2 (aka Armour of God 4) is becoming a reality. Here’s some news according to a recent Variety article: “On completion of Dragon Blade, Chan will next shoot English-language actioner Skiptrace before taking the lead role in Chinese Zodiac II, a sequel to the Chan-directed and starring comedy action hit of December 2012.”

There is no word of any additional cast members, or if Chan will be directing Chinese Zodiac 2 himself (all previous Armour of God films were directed by Chan). Obviously, it’s way too early for details, but we’ll keep you in the loop as we hear more news.

In addition to Chinese Zodiac II, there are a number of rumored and in-development Chan projects in the works, including Rush Hour 4, Karate Kid 2, Wolf Flag, Manhattan and even a “silent movie” with Zhang Yimou.

"A Better Tomorrow 2" Japanese Theatrical Poster

In the late 1980s, director John Woo and producer Tsui Hark dominated the heroic bloodshed scene with the classics A Better Tomorrow and A Better Tomorrow 2. Unfortunately, the success of these films led to creative differences between the two. The duo ultimately clashed and went separate ways. Hark took over directing duties for A Better Tomorrow 3 and Woo went on to do The Killer. Their partnership was over.

Now, 25 years later, an article hints that the two have patched things up and may join forces for a new action film. According to kungfucinema’s mark187, who translated the story, this may be a two picture deal between them (i.e. one directed by Woo and produced by Hark; the other directed by Hark and produced by Woo).

The thought of Woo going back to his A Better Tomorrow roots is an action fan’s wet dream. And the fact that Hark is involved makes it even wetter. With Woo, Hark and Ringo Lam (see Lam’s comeback) helming a string of shoot ’em ups, Hong Kong action cinema will explode in the next few years, just as it did 25 years ago. And who knows… maybe Chow Yun-Fat is more than likely to reunite with the guys that made him an international superstar.

Update: John Woo has just wrapped up his upcoming film, The Crossing. His next film will be Flying Tigers, followed by his remake of Seijun Suzuki’s Youth of the Beast. After Beast, he’ll be going back to his “heroic bloodshed” roots with Tsui Hark. In a recent interview with Jaynestars, here’s what Woo had to say: “Tsui Hark and I both cherish the times when we used to work together and would like to rekindle our working relationship. We’d like to make two films together, in the spirit of A Better Tomorrow. At this point, we’re just thinking about the script and have no concrete dates for shooting. But this is something we’re both looking forward to.”

BREAKING NEWS: In our last update, Woo said that he would like to team up with Hark to do an A Better Tomorrow-type movie. Now it looks like he’s interested in doing a wuxia movie with him instead. Here’s what Woo recently told Yahoo: “I hope to work with Tsui Hark on a Wuxia film… he is a genius at his craft and has a lot of ideas.” – Thanks to DiP!

"Iron Fist TV" Promotional

A couple of weeks ago, the announcement of Mill Creek Entertainment’s Iron Fist TV starting circulating the web. Now, we’re here to remind you just how badass Iron Fist TV really is.

You can access Iron Fist TV on your portable device, your computer, or even in the comfort your living room with a Roku player. Whichever you choose, many action-packed classics are ready to be discovered with a touch of a finger!

Iron Fist TV features an assortment of hard-to-find martial arts, monster films and TV shows from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s, featuring selections from Flying Fists of Kung Fu, The Great Impersonators and When Monsters Attack. Also, watch episodes of Fight! Dragon, Iron King, Super Robot Red Baron and Ultraman. Plus, new content will be added regularly!

With Iron Fist TV, you have the option of watching these completely FREE – or – for a low fee of $4.99/month (100% ad-free). For more information, watch the trailer or visit www.IronFistTV.com.

"Hercules" International Theatrical Poster

THE MOVIE: Having enduring his legendary twelve labors, Hercules (Dwayne Johnson), the Greek demigod, has his life as a sword-for-hire tested when the King of Thrace and his daughter seek his aid in defeating a tyrannical warlord.

Opening on July 25, 2014 is Hercules (aka Hercules: The Thracian Wars), directed by Brett Ratner (Rush Hour). In addition to Dwayne Johnson as Hercules, the upcoming film also stars John Hurt, Rufus Sewell, Ian McShane, Joseph Fiennes, Rebecca Ferguson, Peter Mullan and Irina Shayk. Watch the first trailer.

Updates: First trailer. | First clip. | Second trailer.

BREAKING NEWS: Two new international posters: 1 | 2 – Thanks to impa.

"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" Japanese Theatrical Poster

Turtle Power: The Definitive History of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is an upcoming documentary that explores how a bizarre idea went from independent comic book to a global sensation that included cartoons, live-action films, video games and toys.

Written and directed by Randall Lobb, Turtle Power: The Definitive History of the Teenage Mutant Ninja, features interviews with the creators and the affiliates who were there from day one.

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo and Raphael by catching it on DVD and Digital HD on August 12, 2014. Until then, don’t miss the trailer.

"Gatchaman" Japanese Theatrical Poster

For a generation of kids who grew up in the early 80’s, much of their favorite Saturday morning fare was – unbeknownst to them – anime that had been dubbed and re-edited from Japan. Thus, Japan’s Macross became Robotech and Beast King GoLion became Voltron.

Along those same lines, the long-running Japanese anime Gatchaman was introduced to American audiences as Battle of the Planets. The show followed a group of super-powered young people (who may or may not be cyborgs) tasked with protecting the Earth from the villainous aliens of Spectra.

Now, Japan’s live-action movie based on the series is available on Blu-ray at DDDHouse.com for a June 13th pre-order. In case you haven’t seen it, watch the trailer!

The Chef, the Actor, the Scoundrel | Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

For those of you looking to add a number of exciting Blu-ray & DVD titles to your collection, get ready for one hot list! The month of June is jam-packed with countless butt-kicking classics, a crazy Chinese comedy and a critically acclaimed Korean drama!

Whether you’re looking for some old school kung fu action (The Angela Mao Ying Collection, The Great Impersonators, Way of the 5 Finger Death Strike) or prefer something newer (Gina Carano’s In The Blood, Brawl aka Fighting Fish), you’ll be pleased with the batch of titles coming out this month. For your convenience, we listed them by day of release.

If you’re interested in purchasing the titles, we’re hoping you’ll click on our Amazon.com links to show your support towards cityonfire.com.

In return, we’ll continue to highlight lesser-known martial arts/Asian cinema gems at the beginning of each month. As always, we appreciate your help. After all, it’s you, our visitors, that keeps us going. Thank you!

In The Blood
Releases June 3
Anchor Bay presents the Blu-ray & DVD for In The Blood. When her husband goes missing during their Caribbean vacation, a woman (Gina Carano) sets off on her own to take down the men she thinks are responsible. In the Blood is directed by John Stockwell (Into the Blue) and stars Gina Carano, Stephen Lang, Luis Guzman, Amaury Nolasco, Cam Gigandet, Danny Trejo, Treat Williams, Ismael Cruz Cordova and Yvette Yates.

Bushido Man: Seven Deadly Battles
Releases June 10
Shout! Factory presents the Blu-ray & DVD for Takanori Tsujimoto’s Bushido Man: Seven Deadly Battles. Upon returning from a pilgrimage across Japan, the warrior Toramaru arrives with tales of seven epic battles against Japan’s most legendary fighters. As Toramaru’s philosophy dictates that he “know the enemy by eating his food,” each masterfully-choreographed fight is preceded by a helping of his prey’s favorite dish. Starring Mitsuki Koga (Shinobi: Heart Under Blade), Yoshiyuki Yamaguchi and Masanori Mimoto.

Brawl | aka Fighting Fish
Releases June 10
Lionsgate presents the DVD for Brawl (aka Fighting Fish). Mike moves to Thailand to start a new life when he is robbed and left with nothing… until he meets Yo, a skilled Thai boxer, and his beautiful (and handicapped) wife. The new friends soon enter an underground fight club called “Fighting Fish” in order to make the money they need to survive. Starring Jawed El Berni (Ninja 2), David Ismalone (Beautiful Boxer) and Suchao Pongwilai (Ong Bak).

Iron Fist Frenzy
Releases June 10
Mill Creek Entertainment presents the 13-disc DVD set for Iron Fist Frenzy. This collection includes 50 movies. Prepare to unleash a fury of immortal martial arts masters with this 50 movie set of kung-fu classics! This thrilling collection of jaw-droppin flicks brings together a colossal assortment of martial arts genre films from the 70s, 80s and 90s. From the ultimate Shaolin masters to the legends of kung-fu, theses hard to find cult classics are sure to delight, with 50 times the high-kickin humor and adrenaline pumpin action! Note: Click on the Amazon link to see included titles.

100 Greatest Martial Arts Classics Collection
Releases June 10
Mill Creek Entertainments presents the 26-disc DVD set for the 100 Greatest Martial Arts Classics Collection. Over 140 Hours of Kung-Fu Combat! Knock yourself out with 100 high flyin’ and punch packin’ Kung Fu films! This thrilling collection of jaw-droppin flicks brings together a colossal assortment of martial arts madness. From the ultimate Shaolin masters to the legends of Kung-Fu, theses cult classics are hard to find and sure to delight with high-kickin humor and adrenaline pumpin action! Note: For a full listing of the film’s includes, click here. Note: Click on the Amazon link to see included titles.

Way of the 5 Finger Death Strike
Releases June 17
Mill Creek Entertainment presents the 3-disc DVD set for the Way of the 5 Finger Death Strike. This 12 movie collection includes Blind Warrior (1987), The Bravest Fist (1974), The Challenger (1980), Five Kung Fu Daredevil Heroes (1977), A Hero’s Tears (1979), Kingfisher the Killer (1981), The Mighty Four (1980), Ninja Avenger (1982), The Rage of Wind (1973), Ring of Death (1980), Triple Impact (1992) and Woman Avenger (1980). You may also be interested in Mill Creek’s first two volumes.

Angela Mao Ying 5-Film Collection
Releases June 17
Shout! Factory presents the DVD set for The Angela Mao Ying 5-Film Collection. This 6 film, 3 disc set includes 1973’s When Taekwondo Strikes, 1974’s The Tournament, 1974’s Stoner, 1976’s The Himalayan, 1976’s A Queen’s Ransom and 1977’s Broken Oath. Other actors who star alongside Mao are 007’s George Lazenby, Bolo Yueng (Enter the Dragon), Sammo Hung (Ip Man 2), Yuen Biao (Dragons Forever) and Carter Huang (Big Trouble in Little China). Update: A Queen’s Ransom and Stoner will be the extended cuts, which run longer than the their U.S. releases.

The Great Impersonators
Releases June 17
Mill Creek Entertainment presents the 3-disc DVD set for The Great Impersonators. This 12 movie collection includes Dragon Lee’s Big Boss 2 (1978), Bruce: King of Kung Fu (1982), Bruce vs. Iron Hand (1979), Crazy Couple (1979), Enter the Game of Death (1978), Great Hunter (1975), Kung Fu Genius (1980), Kung Fu Warrior (1980), Marvelous Stunts of Kung Fu (1979), Mission for the Dragon (1981), Return of the Red Tiger (1978) and Showdown at the Equator (1978). You may also be interested in Mill Creek’s first two volumes.

The Attorney
Releases June 17
Well Go USA presents the DVD for The Attorney. An attorney (Song Kang-Ho from The Host and The Good, the Bad, the Weird) moves from being a very successful lawyer just out to make money to one who cares about the civil liberties of an activist high-school student (Im Siwan) he defends. The story is based off a web-toon by Yang Woo-seok, who also is a first time director of The Attorney.

The Chef, the Actor, the Scoundrel
Releases June 24
Well Go USA presents the Blu-ray & DVD for The Chef, the Actor, the Scoundrel. Directed and written by Guan Hu (Design of Death), who calls this film “mass entertainment,” revolves around the fate of two Japanese scientists, who are captured in Beijing during World War II Sino-Japanese War in 1942. The film stars Zhang Hanyu as The Actor, Huang Bo as The Scoundrel, and Liu Hua as The Chef.

Looking for new import releases?
If you’re looking for a new import release, please visit DDDhouse.com. The trusted retailer carries new and upcoming releases that are not yet available in North America, such as Donnie Yen’s The Monkey King and Chow Yun-Fat’s From Vegas to Macau.