"Conan the Barbarian" Blu-ray Cover
Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for 1982’s Conan the Barbarian. Robert E. Howard’s short stories come to life with the help of John Milius (Dillinger) and Oliver Stone (Natural Born Killers). Folks, it seriously doesn’t get any more savage than this: Excessive bloody violence, enormous snakes and one of the best soundtracks ever put on film! Heck, even Darth Vader is practically in this movie. If you do not listen, then to HELL with you!
"Ameera" Chinese theatrical Poster
Film Smash has the scoop on the latest action flick by Xu Hong Hui’s (Crazy in Love) titled Ameera, which stars Collin Chou (Special ID), Patricia Hu (Angel Warriors), Ambrose Hsu (Fulltime Killer), Andrew Lin (The Man with the Iron Fists), Bryan Leung (Badges of Fury) and Paul Chun (Shinjuku Incident).
Here’s the basic plot according to Film Smash: Following the titular government agent who, after failing her latest mission, must go on the offensive and prevent a terrorist attack. Head over to Film Smash for the trailer.
According to Film Combat Syndicate, Ameera hits Chinese theaters on April 4, 2014.
Update: Watch the new trailer.
“Rurouni Kenshin 2” Japanese Theatrical Poster
We have word that the new sequel trailers for Keishi Otomo’s Rurouni Kenshin 2 and 3 are now online. If you’re not familiar with 2012’s Rurouni Kenshin, it’s an adaptation of the popular 90′s samurai action manga/anime series (known as Samurai X in America) by Nobuhiro Watsuki. The story revolves around a former assassin who resorts to using the dull end of his blade to subdue his enemies.
New and returning cast members include Takeru Satoh, Tatsuya Fujiwara, Emi Takei, Yusuke Iseya, Munetaka Aoki and Yuu Aoi and Yosuke Eguchi, with Min Tanaka, Yukiyoshi Ozawa, Kaito Oyagi, Maryjun Takahashi, Ryosuke Miura and Lisa Ulliel.
Rurouni Kenshin: The Great Kyoto Fire Arc and Rurouni Kenshin: The End of A Legend Arc will be released in Japan on August 1, 2014 and September 13, 2014, respectively. Watch the trailer, which covers both films.
“The Walking Dead” Japanese Blu-ray Set
For the past two weeks, AMC’s The Walking Dead has been heading into serious boredom territory. I did not think it was possible to make the character of Daryl seem dull. But the producers behind Dead pulled it off. Even my (once) favorite character Rick, who really needs to discover a razor and a new shirt, has become my least favorite character. This season seemed to be heading into post-Darabont Season Two territory. That is, until “The Grove.”
The opening scene of episode 14 was creepy as hell. Good sign. Then we realize that this is going to be another “let’s only follow these characters” episode. So no Rick again, which gives him more opportunity to shave. But enough of that. This episode presented something that I never saw coming. And I don’t mean the “burnt walkers” whom looked cool and scary at the same time. “The Grove” introduced us to a new kind of evil. An innocent evil. Lizzie saw this new world of the undead in a whole different light. At first I thought she was trying to become the typical annoying kid of the series. But her reasoning was different. When she is hovering over her sister, I thought to myself, “no way Mika is dead.” But she was and there was no doubt in my mind that Lizzie had to go. But then I thought, “no way they’re going to kill off TWO kids in the same episode. That is unheard of.” But Carol did the deed in true Godfather II style. The episode was intense, scary and brilliantly acted. Special shout out to Chad Coleman, who is just as great here as he was in The Wire.
But I save my biggest applause for how the producers chose to handle the confession. Far too many shows have stretched these predicaments for weeks. Smallville was great at that. I call it the “soap opera approach.” The perfect example of this technique is the film People Like Us. Chris Pine plays a man who discovers he has a sister. Of course instead of just telling her, he decides to get close to her and her kid and drag it out for what seems like a five hour running time. But if he did, I guess there wouldn’t be a terrible movie to torture us with. But getting back to Dead, Carol tells Tyrese the truth about the deaths in the prison and it is settled, even if only temporarily. Kudos for not dragging it out for another eighteen weeks.
With more episodes like this, The Walking Dead might be able to reclaim that Season One glory.
"Fighting" Chinese Theatrical Poster
An upcoming film by Jiang Ping (Looking for Jackie Chan) called Fighting – also known as A Better Tomorrow (no relation to the famous John Woo film of the same name) – mixes romance, fantasy, war and martial arts in one odd package.
Fighting stars Peter Ho (The Monkey King), Lu Yi, Wei Yi (Stool Pigeon), Lam Wai (Legendary Amazons), Hou Yong (Drug War) and Yvonne Yung (The Hero of Swallow). Fighting also marks one of the last appearances by the legendary Wu Ma, who passed away last February.
Film Smash (via Film Combat Syndicate) breaks the news of two new trailers: Trailer 1 | Trailer 2
Update: Check out the new poster.
Brawl | aka Fighting Fish | DVD (Lionsgate)
RELEASE DATE: June 10, 2014
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). Watch the trailer.
“Unbeatable” Chinese Theatrical Poster
Director: Dante Lam
Cast: Nick Cheung, Eddie Peng, Mei Ting, Feier Li, Andy On, Patrick Keung, Wang Baoqiang, Liu Kim Wa, Awayne, Stephen Au Kam-Tong, Mo Lai-Yee
Running Time: 122 min.
By DiP
Here’s a movie that I would say truly cements Dante Lam as one of the leading Hong Kong filmmakers at the moment and that will push his filming skills further if he’s given the right material and the ideas to succeed again. What he has done here was create a story that is put together and emphasized in a way he’s never done before and thereby outdoing his previous works, including his break-out movie The Beast Stalker.
One might be more interested in the MMA aspect surrounding the movie. But if anything, it’s the story and character chemistries between the main characters that make this movie very successful. From Nick Cheung’s interaction with rookie Eddie Peng, and trainer/best friend Philip Keung to traumatized mother Mei Ting and her kid girl Crystal Lee. Then you also have a subplot involving Eddie Peng and his father Jack Kao, as well as the mother jeopardizing herself to get institutionalized and separated from her only kid she has left due to her depression to boost the emotional aspect of the character development and it works.
This is Nick Cheung’s show though. The guy has come a long way and has recently proven to be a fine leading man in his own right and keeps going forward and getting better at his game. The character development between him and the mother/kid was the strongest part of the dramatic side of the movie. I’d go my way and say that without this, the movie would’ve been another sports movie with conventional everything that has become the norm nowadays. Also kudos to Mei Ting and especially child actress Crystal Lee for conveying their acting performances so exceptionally well.
Action-wise, I liked what they did with the MMA although it wasn’t overwhelming nor something new as far as MMA onscreen goes. Lots of techniques, details, logic etc that indicates that Lam has done his research on the sport. On the other hand, I think there were some moments of flashy movements that made me think “shouldn’t there be little flash and more authenticity as far as MMA goes?”.
Plus the camerawork and editing – while being creative and fresh at times – was also a bit bugging as you can’t really see or imagine what’s going on due to odd angles and alignment of each shots. It’s not surprising though, given the fact that the action was staged by Ling Chi-Wah, who regularly works as an action choreographer in Yuen Woo Ping’s stunt team. Nevertheless, they deliver in the action department featuring entertaining training sequences and fight scenes.
Andy On’s moments were the highlight to me, and I can see why they keep hiring him for upcoming action movies. The downside to On’s role is that his character shows up toward the second half as the random champion of Macau. This to me didn’t serve much to the story and makes his character the weakest out of all other ones.
Verdict: Everyone who likes good touchy stories/character mash-ups with entertaining action sprinkled in between should definitely see this. I’d say it’s up there with Drug War as one of the best Hong Kong movies made in 2013. Highly recommended!
DiP’s Rating: 9/10
The Wrath of Vajra | Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)
Cityonfire.com and Well Go USA are giving away 3 Blu-ray copies of The Wrath of Vajra to three lucky Cityonfire visitors. To enter, simply add a comment to this post telling us what your favorite film is (from any country, any genre), along with a brief explanation of why it’s your favorite. We know it’s hard, but you can do it! 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 The Wrath of Vajra 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 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. 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 Andy, Travis and Miko. You have all been notified via email.
"Last Flight" Chinese Theatrical Poster
If you’re into airplane thrillers like Turbulence, Snakes 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.
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.
"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.
"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!
“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
“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
"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!
on Jaa’ll ready for this? Watch the Trailer for ‘Striking Rescue’ starring Tony Jaa and Xing Yu of ‘Super Bodyguard’Too bad Expendables 4 wasn't like that.
on 100 Yards (2024) ReviewIts by far the directors best yet but he still has issues with his editing. T…
on Love…. exciting and new! 88 Films announces Blu-ray for Teruo Ishii’s 1969 cult thriller ‘Love and Crime’Who still buys those movies AND want a f... DVD???? on 100 Yards (2024) ReviewI loved The final master and the first trailer for 100 yards. Can't wait for…
on Shaw Brothers, Lau Kar-Leung, Gordon Liu and a dash of John Woo: Here’s what’s on Hi-YAH for the month of NovemberRobert, i love From Dusk Til Dawn, but your other movies.... meh!
on High Forces (2024) Reviewyeah they should call it "D-E-I HARD on a plane". Sign me up!
on Jaa’ll ready for this? Watch the Trailer for ‘Striking Rescue’ starring Tony Jaa and Xing Yu of ‘Super Bodyguard’The guy is almost 50, and he’s still determined to compete with the new gener…
on There’ll be HELL to pay in the Teaser Poster for Ernesto Díaz Espinoza’s ‘Diablo’ starring Marko Zaror and Scott AdkinsThat movie is epic!
on There’ll be HELL to pay in the Teaser Poster for Ernesto Díaz Espinoza’s ‘Diablo’ starring Marko Zaror and Scott AdkinsThe Fight Scenes were excellent, although they did seem to go on a little lon…
on High Forces (2024) Reviewthey should remake it in Hollywood and make the characters fly that shit prop…
on There’ll be HELL to pay in the Teaser Poster for Ernesto Díaz Espinoza’s ‘Diablo’ starring Marko Zaror and Scott AdkinsThis movie was deadset Elite and deserves to be talked about. Insane action s…
on Can’t stop, won’t stop! Shout Factory details Volume 5 of their upcoming ‘Shaw Bothers Classics’ Blu-ray seriesYeah, there are some interesting ones in there. Going to order my copy soon.
on Shaw Brothers, Lau Kar-Leung, Gordon Liu and a dash of John Woo: Here’s what’s on Hi-YAH for the month of NovemberCan’t wait to watch these great films. on Can’t stop, won’t stop! Shout Factory details Volume 5 of their upcoming ‘Shaw Bothers Classics’ Blu-ray seriesThat’s awesome, I haven’t seen many of these! Looking forward to this one.
on 100 Yards (2024) ReviewI'm so stoked to get my hands on this movie. Andy On is such a good screen fi…
on 100 Yards (2024) ReviewFighting scenes are well grounded and creative. Movie doesn’t get a theater r…
on 100 Yards (2024) ReviewI thought this would be good on 100 Yards (2024) ReviewThis sounds great. I’m already happy that there’s plenty of fight scenes, but… on ‘Paradox’ and ‘Ip Man 4’ star Wu Yue kicks ass in the Trailer for Well Go USA’s ‘Tai Chi Master’ on Digital on November 12There's a guy who hates Well Go USA? Lol that's just silly and funny at the s…
on ‘Paradox’ and ‘Ip Man 4’ star Wu Yue kicks ass in the Trailer for Well Go USA’s ‘Tai Chi Master’ on Digital on November 12Please can the guy who hates everything Well Go releases, review this when it… on Tai me up! 88 Films 4K UHD release for Jet Li, Michelle Yeoh and Yuen Woo-ping’s ‘Tai Chi Master’ arriving in OctoberI find it interesting that Jet Li was going to star in Crime Story before his… on ‘Paradox’ and ‘Ip Man 4’ star Wu Yue kicks ass in the Trailer for Well Go USA’s ‘Tai Chi Master’ on Digital on November 12I thought this was gonna be a remake of the Woo Ping movie! They should have… on High Forces (2024) ReviewIt’s good to know of those titles. Autism (or bi-polar disorder for that matt…
on Money Games and Movies: The Fascinating Intersection[…] To explore more ways in which money-making intersects with entertai…
on High Forces (2024) ReviewI'll also throw in the 2019 Korean movie 'Innocent Witness' which portrays a…
Be the 1st to Comment