Fasten your seat belts for Vincent Zhou’s ‘Last Flight’

"Last Flight" Chinese Theatrical Poster

"Last Flight" Chinese Theatrical Poster

If you’re into airplane thrillers like TurbulenceSnakes on a Plane, Flightplan and most recently, Non-Stop, then fasten your seat belt for Last Flight. First time director Vincent Zhou opens with a bang in his upcoming English-language Chinese film that stars Ed Westwick (Children of Men), Zhu Zhu (The Man with the Iron Fists) and Leon Li (Out of Inferno).

Here’s the official plot: As an old Boing 747 takes off for its last red-eye flight from a small Pacific island, unusual events occur intermittently. While all the passengers are panic, the captain and the chief flight attendant try to lead the investigation.

It’s hard not to notice the outdated special effects and questionable acting in Last Flight’s trailer, but who are we to judge? It’s possible that these noticeable shortcomings are part of the film’s charm. We doubt it, but we’ll eventually find out when it’s released on March 21, 2014 in China.

Posted in News |

Cityonfire and CJ Entertainment are giving away 3 DVD copies of ‘The Flu’ – WINNERS ANNOUNCED!

The Flu | DVD (CJ Entertainment)

The Flu | DVD (CJ Entertainment)

Cityonfire.com and CJ Entertainment are giving away 3 DVD copies of The Flu to three lucky Cityonfire visitors. See why NY Times calls The Flu “Sickly Disturbing” and according to Variety, the film “Delivers a transfusion of harrowing realism” and “builds white-knuckle tension.”

To enter, simply add a comment to this post telling us about the most disturbing film (from any country) you’ve ever seen, along with a brief explanation of why it was so disturbing. We will be selecting three winners at random. Be sure to include your email address in the appropriate field so we can contact you for your home address. Additionally, you must ‘Like Us‘ on cityonfire.com’s Facebook by clicking here.

The DVD for The Flu will be officially released on March 18, 2014. We will announce the 3 lucky winners on March 18th and ship out the prizes immediately.

CONTEST DISCLAIMER: You must enter by March 17th to qualify. Also, because CJ Entertainment holds the film’s U.S. rights, only U.S. residents may enter the contest. We sincerely apologize to our non-U.S. visitors. Winners must respond with their mailing address within 48 hours, otherwise you will automatically be disqualified. No exceptions. Contest is subject to change without notice.

WINNERS: Congratulations to Isabel, Matthew A. and Chris M. You have all been notified via email.

Posted in News | Tagged |

2nd Red Band trailer for Schwarzenegger’s ‘Sabotage’!

"Sabotage" International Theatrical Poster

"Sabotage" International Theatrical Poster

THE MOVIE: David Ayer – the award-winning writer of Training Day, and writer/director of Street Kings, Harsh Times, End of Watch and the upcoming Fury – teams up with Arnold Schwarzenegger in an action thriller called Sabotage (aka Ten or Breacher). The film co-stars Mireille Enos, Olivia Williams, Joe Manganiello, Sam Worthington, Max Martini, Max Martini, Josh Holloway and Terrence Howard.

The film’s plot, written by Skip Woods (A Good Day to Die Hard), is about members of an elite DEA task force who decide to steal millions from a drug cartel safe house, but just when they think their plan was flawless, they end up getting murdered one by one.

Updates: In an interview with Empire, Schwarzenegger says: “Breacher, especially, will be very like a new Predator,” he adds. “It’s a team around me and they get knocked off until there’s only me left. Except in this case there will be a different twist to the whole thing instead of some alien monster.” | First image of Arnie from Ten. | First glimpse of what might become the official poster art for the film. | Handful of new action-packed photos that have recently popped up online. | First trailer. | Theatrical poster. | 2nd trailer, via yahoo. | Release date has been moved up to March 28th. | New Red Band trailer, courtesy of Collider. | New international poster. | Violent Red Band clip. | New UK trailer. | International poster. Does anyone know what country this is from? | New TV Spot.

BREAKING NEWS: Watch the 2nd Red Band trailer.

Posted in News |

Deal on Fire! Police Story 1 & 2 | Blu-ray | Only $12.49 – Expires soon!

"Police Story 1 & 2" Blu-ray Cover

"Police Story 1 & 2" Blu-ray Cover

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray Double Feature for Jackie Chan’s Police Story 1 & 2. 1985’s Police Story set new standards, not only for Jackie Chan himself, but for Hong Kong action cinema in general. The movie is so influential and ahead of its time, that Sylvester Stallone and Michael Bay have “borrowed” action scenes for both Tango & Cash and Bad Boys II, respectively. Be sure to take advantage of other Jackie Chan Double Features at their current special price!

Posted in Deals on Fire!, News |

Monkey King, The (2014) Review

"The Monkey King" Chinese Theatrical Poster

“The Monkey King” Chinese Theatrical Poster

Director: Cheang Pou-soi
Cast: Donnie Yen, Chow Yun-fat, Aaron Kwok, Joe Chen, Peter Ho, Kelly Chen, Zhang Zilin, Gigi Leung, Xia Zitong, Louis Fan, Cheang Pou-soi
Running Time: 120 min.

By DiP

First things first, I’m not familiar with the Journey To The West novel nor am a fan of the screen adaptations. So whether the movie is faithful to the novel or not, I can’t comment on unfortunately. But as a standalone movie, The Monkey King is very entertaining. Adapting novels and what not onscreen is something I no longer take for granted because the whole point from filmmakers’ views is that you loosely create a base around the original material and then intentionally mixing in your own ideas and thoughts to put together something different. This is what I got from watching the movie as well; being a loose adaptation that is not intended to be matched to its’ original source material step-by-step.

I think when filmmakers made this movie, they already knew to aim the movie for a specific audience: families. Imagine a sci-fi movie with all kinds of talking animals (including bears, turtles, giant killer fish, proboscis monkeys etc) and creatures all in G-rating vibe and aiding CGI in the mix, and you’ll get my point. While I’m not usually fond of family-oriented versions of movies of opposite nature, I was honestly appreciating what I saw all the way through.

Now, people have not only criticized the unfaithfulness of the overall content but also pointed out how bad the filmmakers used CGI for characters and background. Sure, it may pale in comparison to Hollywood productions. But all in all it’s actually pretty good for Hong Kong standards, especially when there’s cheap CGI-filled Hong Kong movies existing like The Storm Riders and The Legend of Zu. Something I also found remarkable was how well the Hollywood team did a great job mashing up the CGI with the actors’ in motion, which I can’t say about many 3D Hong Kong/Chinese movies made today. However, I still think CGI is one area China/Hong Kong can greatly improve on considering how much finance they have to invest on. I would love to see how they change this in the future, and how this can make them compete with Hollywood as a whole.

The cast includes many Hong Kong as well as Mainland talents. Despite this, the movie centers mainly around Sun Wukong (played by Donnie Yen) as well as Jade Warlord (Chow Yun-Fat), Bull Demon King (Aaron Kwok), Puti (Hai Yitian), and Erlangshen (Peter Ho). Chow Yun-Fat carries his version of Jade Warlord with calm coolness and channels charisma by not even seemingly trying (not a bad thing I’d say). Likewise for Aaron Kwok, who plays his role with great menace and to great effect and leaving out everything that he used to be synonymous with in the past. If anything though, this is Donnie Yen’s show as it’s his interpretation of Sun Wukong that simply makes the whole movie.

Donnie throws in all kinds of expressions and emotions that will have you marveled at his dedication and efforts in breathing new life to the classic Sun Wukong character, something apparently very demanding and tough for him. I now regard this movie as one of his best achievements in terms of acting. I’m also aware that comparisons have been made between Donnie and previous actors portraying Sun Wukong after its’ initial release. Again, this is something I can’t comment on because I have only seen Stephen Chow and Jet Li’s take on Sun Wukong. But I will say this: If most people highly praise Donnie’s acting performance then it must mean something significant. Regardless, this shows that Donnie has now become part in the big league of great Hong Kong acting leads and continues to improve greatly.

What about the action scenes? Since this is a Donnie Yen vehicle, people surely expect great action scenes from him as well. Knowing Donnie’s choreography style and his strive to put new and different stuff in each of his movies, I think this is once again a successful attempt for him; this time he mixes up an unusual empty-handed fighting (or should I say unconventional monkey kung fu) style, traditional staff techniques with 3D technology and wirework. While I really enjoy all the action scenes (ranging from one-on-one duels and magical gimmick duels to large-scale war battles), I don’t think this will sit well with those that hate CGI/wirework only wanting the authentic/real physical aspect of action choreography. This is a fantasy movie after all so these fictional elements are required anyway.

Verdict: Some things (like most reviews have pointed out) needed alot of work because they were unpolished and amateurish. But overall, I’m very impressed with how the movie was put together and wouldn’t mind seeing Donnie Yen return as Sun Wukong for the sequel (begins production this fall).

DiP’s Rating: 8/10

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

On the Job (2013) Review

"On The Job" Theatrical Poster

“On the Job” Theatrical Poster

Director: Erik Matti
Cast: Piolo Pascual, Gerald Anderson, Joel Torre, Joey Marquez, Michael de Mesa, Leo Martinez, Angel Aquino, Vivian Velez, Niño Muhlach
Running Time: 121 min.

By Jeff Bona

When I think of Filipino films, two things come to mind: goofy comedies and melodramas with overacting. My opinion comes from what I’ve seen on TV while vacationing in the Philippines and what I’ve witnessed while at my Aunt’s house (back in the day, she used to rent Tagalog films on a regular basis).

In case you haven’t already guessed, I’m Filipino myself. With that said, I’ve never seen a Filipino movie – or TV show – that was anywhere near having some kind of artistic merit or solid entertainment value. That is, until now…

I’m not going to beat around the bush. On The Job is one hell of a movie. The acclaimed reviews are accurate. My expectations were met. Seriously, how often does that happen? To put it even more simple: director Erik Matti (Tiktik: The Aswang Chronicles) hit the nail right on its head with this one.

The plot is interesting, fresh and unfortunately, based on actual events. In a nut shell, the film centers on prison inmates who work secretly as hired assassins for corrupt politicians. It’s a story of a killer and his pupil, a good cop versus the system, and the blood that flows when all parties collide.

Don’t be fooled into thinking On The Job is an action movie filmed with a bunch of Hong Kong-style firefights. It does have a nice chunk of energetic action pieces (accompanied by some great, heart-racing music), but let’s just say that it’s more Ringo Lam (Full Alert) than it is John Woo (The Killer). If you know your Asian cinema, then you’re aware of the compliment I just made.

Even though the actors are obviously unknown to American audiences, On The Job features a strong, well-known Filipino cast that includes Piolo Pascual (Don’t Give Up on Us), Gerald Anderson (24/7 in Love), Joel Torre (Kabisera), Joey Marquez (Tiktik: The Aswang Chronicles) and Michael de Mesa (10,000 Hours).

Despite knocking Filipino films, I’m sure there are more titles out there that are decent. Nevertheless, I’ll be damned if there was another that’s as all-round solid and refreshing as On The Job. Maybe my best bet is to check out some of Matti’s prior films…

Until then, if there’s one Filipino film that is guaranteed to be worth your time, it’s On The Job.

Jeff Bona‘s Rating: 8/10

Posted in Filipino, News, Reviews | Tagged , |

The Attorney | DVD (Well Go USA)

"The Attorney" Korean Theatrical Poster

"The Attorney" Korean Theatrical Poster

RELEASE DATE: June 17, 2014

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. Watch the trailer.

Pre-order The Attorney from Amazon.com today!

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

See Ray ‘Darth Maul’ Park in action in the new ‘Jinn’ trailer

"Jinn" Teaser Poster

"Jinn" Teaser Poster

Watch the newest trailer for Ajmal Zaheer Ahmad’s Jinn, an upcoming sci-fi action thriller that stars Ray Park (martial artist known for playing Darth Maul in Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace), Dominic Rains, Serinda Swan Faran Tahir and William Atherton.

Here’s a partial film synopsis: Shawn, an automotive designer, enjoys an idyllic life with his new wife Jasmine until it is interrupted a cryptic message. The message warns of imminent danger and a curse that has afflicted his family for generations. Having lost his parents as a child, Shawn doesn’t believe this unsettling revelation of his past… until strange things start to happen.

Thanks to Film Combat Syndicate for breaking the news.

Posted in News |

Deal on Fire! Ichi | Blu-ray | Only $8.20 – Expires soon!

"Ichi" Blu-ray Cover

"Ichi" Blu-ray Cover

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for Fumihiko Sori’s Ichi, the “female version”of Zatoichi: The Blind Swordsman. Beautiful Ichi (Haruka Ayase) wanders blindly from village to village, searching for the sightless swordsman who long ago taught her to kill. Her technique is exquisite and explosive, her defenses as impenetrable as the darkness in which she moves.


Posted in Deals on Fire!, News |

Cityonfire and Well Go USA are giving away 3 Blu-ray copies of ‘Commitment’ – WINNERS ANNOUNCED!

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

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

Cityonfire.com and Well Go USA are giving away 3 Blu-ray copies of Commitment to three lucky Cityonfire visitors. To enter, simply add a comment to this post telling us what your favorite Korean action film is, along with a brief explanation of why it’s your favorite. We will be selecting three winners at random. Be sure to include your email address in the appropriate field so we can contact you for your home address. Additionally, you must ‘Like Us‘ on cityonfire.com’s Facebook by clicking here.

The Blu-ray & DVD for Commitment will be officially released on March 11, 2014. We will announce the 3 lucky winners on March 11th and ship out the prizes immediately.

CONTEST DISCLAIMER: You must enter by March 10th to qualify. Also, because Well Go USA holds the film’s U.S. rights, only U.S. residents may enter the contest. We sincerely apologize to our non-U.S. visitors. Contest is subject to change without notice.

WINNERS: Congratulations to Alan T, Isaac and Mo. You have all been notified via email.

Posted in News | Tagged |

Korean revenge cinema gives birth to a ‘Monster’

"Monster" Korean Theatrical Poster

After the ultra-violent, ultra-bleak bloodbath that was 2010’s I Saw the Devil, you might be forgiven for thinking that the Korean revenge movie has seen and done it all. Well, at least one movie is out to prove that the genre still has a few tricks up its sleeve: opening this Friday, March 13th, in South Korea is a twisted new thriller titled Monster.

The movie follows a somewhat developmentally disabled girl whose younger sister is brutally murdered by a serial killer. Quite naturally, this causes the woman to go a bit crazy and she soon ensues on a quest for retribution against her sibling’s killer. Be sure to check out the trailer (with English subtitles!) for the film, online now. Thanks to Far East Films for the story.

Posted in News |

cityonfire x DressHead Online Metallic Lace Bandeau Mini Peplum Dress

This dresshead x cityonfire one is a metallic lace bandeau dress with a mini skirt and a peplum wait, giving it a very snappy and chic look. The dress hemline comes to your thighs while the bandeau peplum style is very flashy. The metallic lace is black and shines throughout the evening, with a bold look that is classy and yet very sexy. There is a mini-plunge at the front of the strapless dress. The dress is currently out of stock but check back again to see what’s new and what’s returning next season.

Some features of this peplum dress include:
Slim fit – cut closely to the body
68% Rayon 27% Nylon 5% Spandex
100% Polyester
Wrap style front
Self-tie detail belt

Posted in News |

Angela Mao Ying 5-Film Collection | DVD (Shout! Factory)

Angela Mao Ying 5-Film Collection | DVD (Shout! Factory)

Angela Mao Ying 5-Film Collection | DVD (Shout! Factory)

RELEASE DATE: June 17, 2014

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.

Pre-order The Angela Mao Ying 5-Film Collection today from Amazon.com!

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

Bushido Man: Seven Deadly Battles | DVD & Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

Bushido Man: Seven Deadly Battles | DVD & Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

Bushido Man: Seven Deadly Battles | DVD & Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

RELEASE DATE: June 10, 2014

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. Watch the trailer.

Pre-order Bushido Man: Seven Deadly Battles from Amazon.com today!

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

New trailer for the Indonesian action thriller ‘Guardian’

"Guardian" Theatrical Poster

"Guardian" Theatrical Poster

Film Combat Syndicate has the latest scoop on the upcoming Indonesian action thriller, Guardian. Written and directed by Helfi Kardit (Suster Keramas), Guardian stars Sarah Carter (DOA: Dead or Alive), Dominique Diyose (Love for Share), Belinda Camesi (Laskar Cilia) and Tio Pakusadewo (The Raid 2: Berandal).

Here’s the “official” plot: After Wisnu gets killed in his own house, his wife Sarah urges their daughter to train in martial arts. When a gang comes to hunt them, Sarah enlists the help of her husband’s best friend, Captain Roy. Action ensues…

Head over to Film Combat Syndicate for a set of character posters and the latest trailer. Expect Guardian to be released in 2014.

Update: The newest trailer is now available, thanks to Film Combat Syndicate.

Posted in News |