The Ring Collection | 4K UHD + Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

The Ring Collection | 4K UHD + Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

The Ring Collection | 4K UHD + Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

RELEASE DATE: March 19, 2024

On March 19, 2024, Shout! Factory is releasing the 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray for The Ring Collection, a 6-Disc set that will include 2002’s The Ring, 2005’s The Ring Two and 2017’s Rings.

The Ring (2002): This cinematic thrill ride will keep you on the edge of your seat, from the stunning opening to the astonishing conclusion! It begins as just another urban legend – the whispered tale of a nightmarish videotape that causes anyone who watches it to die seven days later. But when four teenagers all meet with mysterious deaths exactly one week after watching just such a tape, investigative reporter Rachel Keller (Naomi Watts, Mulholland Drive) tracks down the video … and watches it. Now, the legend is coming true, the clock is ticking, and Rachel has just seven days to unravel Continue reading

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

Deal on Fire! The Villainess | Blu-ray | Only $11.95 – Expires soon!

The Villainess | Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

The Villainess | Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for The Villainess (read our review) from Confession of Murder helmer Jeong Byeong-gil. This upcoming actioner is about a female killer played by Kim Ok-bin (Thirst).

Bloody revenge is at the heart of this stylish, kinetic action-thriller that gives a welcome shot of adrenaline to the classic femme fatale story. Honed from childhood into a merciless killing machine by a criminal organization, assassin Sook-hee is recruited as a sleeper agent with the promise of freedom after ten years of service – and she jumps at the chance for a normal life. But soon enough, secrets from her past destroy everything she’s worked for, and now nobody can stand in her way as she embarks on a roaring rampage of revenge.

The Villainess also stars Continue reading

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Badland Hunters (2024) Review

"Badland Hunters" Netflix Poster

“Badland Hunters” Netflix Poster

Director: Heo Myung-haeng
Cast: Ma Dong-seok, Lee Hee-Jun, Lee Jun-Young, Roh Jeong-Eui, Ahn Ji-Hye, Park Ji-Hoon, Jang Young-Namm, Park Sang-Hoon , Ahn Seong-Bong
Running Time: 107 min.

By Paul Bramhall

Badland Hunters marks the latest entry in Korea’s burgeoning fascination with post-apocalyptic settings, a spin-off from director Eom Tae-hwa’s Concrete Utopia, which saw a group of survivors living in the last standing apartment block after an earthquake razed Seoul to the ground. Released on Netflix in January 2024 with less than 6 months having passed since Concrete Utopia hit cinema screens, Badland Hunters arrived straight to streaming as the equivalent of a 2000’s era DTV sequel to a cinematic hit. Set several years after the events of its predecessor, we’re introduced to a Seoul which has now become a savage wasteland with water and food in short supply, and marauding bandits terrorising those just trying to get by. If you’ve ever seen any post-apocalyptic movie, you know the score.

It’s a risky move, especially considering the last time Korea attempted a sequel which transitioned events into a post-apocalyptic future we got the less than well received Train to Busan follow-up Peninsula (of which only one reviewer on the entire internet seemed to prefer it to the original). This time around though Badland Hunters comes with a different director to its predecessor, marking the debut of action director and stuntman veteran Heo Myung-haeng. While Myung-haeng has been around since the early days of the Korean Wave in the 2000’s, he’s arguably Continue reading

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The Best Ways to Smoke Marijuana: A Closer Look at the Weed Vape

Cannabis has gotten a major public image glow up in the 21st century. Today, 38 states allow the use of medical marijuana, and a whopping 24 states allow residents to use it recreationally. It’s only a matter of time before people across the country can utilize marijuana to reduce pain or kick back and relax.

One of the best ways to consume cannabis is with a weed vape. If you’re not familiar with vaping or how it works, don’t stress. Read on for an introduction to vaping marijuana.

What Is a Weed Vape?

Our parents and grandparents had bongs and pipes, but those came with the health risks associated with smoking. They also filled your homes and clothes with the smell of weed. A weed vape, on the other hand, is a much more discreet and safe way of partaking in the benefits of cannabis.

Weed vapes heat cannabis flowers or extract and release all of the good cannabinoids and terpenes to be released in vapor form. A weed vape looks like a pen, and it requires a battery to create the heat. You inhale the vapor just like you would inhale smoke from a joint or bong.

Weed vapes do smell like marijuana, but the smell dissipates quickly, and it doesn’t stick to your clothes or smell up your home.

Getting Started Vaping Marijuana

The best way to get started with your weed vape is to head to a dispensary like www.highprofilecannabis.com to find the best vape and cartridge for your needs. In general, rechargeable vapes are the best way to go. Make sure that your vape is fully charged before you get started.

When your vape is charged, you’ll load the cartridge. If it’s a dry herb vape, you’ll want to grind your cannabis to a fine or medium grind and pack it into the herb chamber using a tool or your finger. Make sure not to pack it too tight because you need airflow for it to work.

Once that’s done, turn on the vape and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Start with small hits to adjust to the vape.

Temperature Considerations

Did you know that temperature settings impact the intensity of your high? The hotter the setting, the more intense the extraction of THC and CBD.

The minimum temperature for a THC high is around 325 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is great for beginners and those who want a more mellow experience.

If you want to maximize your high, set your vape to a temperature between 400 and 430 degrees Fahrenheit. Many people set their vapes to this temperature before bed because it’s great for inducing sleep.

Are You Ready to Vape?

Making use of a weed vape is a great way to make use of the many incredible medicinal and recreational uses of marijuana. Not only does it save you the worry of removing the smell of weed from your home and clothing, but it’s easier to use and more controllable than edibles. If you’re not vaping your marijuana, there’s never been a better time to give it a shot.

Do you want to learn about more fun and unique ways to enhance your life? Look no further! Check out the rest of our blog for tons of great life pro tips!

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Deal on Fire! Out for Justice | Blu-ray | Only $5 – Expires soon!

Out for Justice | Blu-ray (Warner)

Out for Justice | Blu-ray (Warner)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for Out for Justice, a 1991 actioner from legendary martial arts star Steven Seagal (Above the LawClementine, Attrition) and director John Flynn (Rolling Thunder).

Anybody seen Richie? The gruesome murder of a Brooklyn Detective will turn the case into a personal vendetta when the deceased’s best friend and fellow officer (Seagal) will unleash an all-out attack against a psychotic Mafia (William Forsythe, Boardwalk Empire) enforcer’s brutal gang.

Out for Justice also stars Jerry Orbach (Universal Soldier), Jo Champa (Don Juan DeMarco), Shareen Mitchell (Hudson Street), Gina Gershon (Face/Off), Robert LaSardo (Death Race) and a special Continue reading

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How Does Technology Impact Student Learning?

Technology is now an integral component of modern education, dramatically altering how students acquire and apply knowledge. In this post, we explore its many facets impact on student learning – providing homework help services such as WritePaperFor.Me; providing accounting homework solutions. As well as assessing online essay-writing services such as WritePaperFor.Me.

Technology’s Rise as an enabler of learning

Technology’s introduction in education has revolutionized traditional teaching methods. Digital tools and online resources offer students unprecedented access to information, transforming the learning process. Ranging from interactive multimedia presentations to educational apps and platforms, technology offers multiple avenues for engaging with and comprehending academic content.

Homework Assistance in Digital Format

How to get help with homework? One of the greatest ways technology impacts student learning is through providing help with homework. Digital platforms, including online tutoring services, educational apps, and interactive study materials, have made it simpler for students to seek assistance outside the classroom setting.

Khan Academy and Quizlet provide students with access to an abundance of educational resources that help strengthen their understanding of subjects and concepts. Furthermore, these tools cater to various learning styles while also offering tailored experiences so that students can advance at their own pace.

Get Accounting Homework Answers Right At Your Fingertips

Accounting, often perceived to be challenging, has experienced a remarkable transformation due to technology. Students now have access to numerous resources offering accounting homework answers that help them quickly grasp complex concepts.

Online forums and communities dedicated to accounting allow students to collaborate, exchange ideas and access assistance from peers around the globe. Educational software and interactive simulations also offer hands-on learning experiences, helping students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and foster a deeper comprehension of accounting as they prepare for professional life. Integrated technology enhances accounting education to create deeper understanding while equipping them for the rigors of professional life.

An Analysis of Online Essay-Writing Services

Seeking quality essays? writepaperfor.me review gives great insights into providing academic writing solutions. Before making a commitment, however, it’s essential that they rigorously investigate both their legitimacy and quality before trusting such services with academic support.

WritePaperFor.Me Review: Key Insights and Considerations

Is writepaperfor.me legit? Before engaging with an essay-writing platform online, it is imperative first to assess its legitimacy and the quality of services offered. A WritePaperFor.Me review can give insight into user experiences. Reviews typically cover aspects such as reliability of deadlines, written content quality, and customer support level.

Though seeking external essay help is not inherently negative, students must exercise caution when seeking assistance and verify the credibility of services that offer this kind of support. Legitimate platforms prioritize academic integrity by producing original and well-researched content, while untrustworthy services could engage in plagiarism or otherwise compromise the academic integrity of those using them.

Balance Technology and Traditional Learning Methods

While technology has undoubtedly enhanced educational experiences, a balanced approach that includes traditional learning methods remains essential to student development. Technology should complement and augment traditional teaching approaches rather than replace them altogether.

Teachers play an integral part in helping their students use technology for educational purposes. Integrating technology into lesson plans, encouraging critical thinking skills, and promoting digital literacy are crucial parts of preparing our children for the challenges of 21st-century learning environments.

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Student Learning

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized student learning. AI-powered educational technologies provide adaptive learning experiences tailored specifically to individual student needs – this level of customization ensures comprehension is increased while offering targeted support where it’s most needed.

AI-powered platforms like Squirrel AI and DreamBox Learning use machine learning algorithms to assess student performance and provide customized learning paths while simultaneously highlighting areas of weakness that require extra attention. Real-time feedback provided by AI enhances learning processes quickly, allowing educators to intervene quickly with targeted assistance.

AI plays an integral part in making education more engaging and enjoyable through educational games powered by AI algorithms that create immersive, engaging experiences for students, cultivating positive attitudes toward learning and fostering their engagement in school life.

Technology’s Role in Blended Learning Environments

Recent global events have highlighted the growing global shift toward remote and blended learning environments, underscoring its vital importance. Technologies such as virtual classrooms, video conferencing tools, and collaborative online platforms have become indispensable components of modern learning environments.

Technology facilitates seamless communication and collaboration among students and educators across geographical borders, creating virtual communities where students can engage in discussions, share resources, and work on collaborative projects together. This interconnectedness not only enriches their learning experience but also prepares them for a globalized world.

Technology offers students who face geographical or logistical barriers a lifeline to ensure education remains accessible to all, creating equal learning opportunities while cultivating inclusivity.

Conclusion

Technology’s impact on student learning is widespread and multidimensional. From offering assistance with homework assignments to accounting homework answers and essay writing services online, technology has revolutionized education. But students must approach technology carefully so they can use its benefits without jeopardizing academic integrity – in an ever-evolving realm of education such as ours, it remains key to striking a balance between traditional methods of instruction and emerging technologies for ensuring a holistic and effective student learning experience.

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How to Choose the Best Blackjack Betting Strategy for Your Skill Level

In high-stakes blackjack, the right betting strategy can make all the difference. From beginners to expert players, finding the right balance between risk and reward is essential to mastering the game. So, how do you choose the best blackjack betting strategy for your skill level?

In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose a blackjack betting strategy that works for you.

Assess Your Skill Level

Before adopting beginner strategies, assessing your skill level in blackjack is crucial. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to stick with simple techniques like the Martingale system or flat betting. These strategies limit your risk while providing opportunities for small gains.

Intermediate players should consider more complex strategies like the Paroli or D’Alembert systems. These methods require more math and strategy but can yield higher returns.

Advanced card counting techniques like the Hi-Lo or Omega II systems may be more suitable for expert players. These strategies need a deep understanding of the game and significant practice. But, they can provide a considerable advantage at the tables.

Consider Your Bankroll

Another crucial factor in choosing the best blackjack betting strategy is your bankroll. The amount of money you have available to play with can impact the betting system you choose.

For beginners, starting with a small bankroll is recommended. This allows for caution and the ability to build up your funds slowly. As your skills and bankroll grow, more advanced strategies may be suitable.

Intermediate players should have a moderate-sized bankroll. This allows them to take advantage of riskier but more profitable strategies.

Expert players have a larger bankroll. They can use more advanced techniques to their fullest potential.

Understand the House Edge

No matter what betting strategy you choose, it’s essential to understand the house edge in blackjack. This refers to the statistical advantage that the casino has over players. These advanced techniques can lower the house edge to 0.5%.

The house edge in blackjack is low compared to other casino games. But it’s still crucial to consider when choosing a betting strategy. Strategies that rely on progressive betting or doubling down can be riskier due to the higher potential losses.

Practice, Practice, Practice

No matter which blackjack betting strategy you choose, practicing and refining your skills regularly is essential. This allows you to become comfortable with the system and make adjustments as needed.

The best online casino platforms offer free blackjack games, allowing players to practice and test different betting strategies without risking money. This is a valuable resource for beginners and experts alike, as it allows for experimentation and developing a winning strategy.

Stay Disciplined with Your Strategy

One of the most critical aspects of successful blackjack betting is discipline. No matter how effective a strategy may be, it can only yield positive results if you stick to it consistently.

Discipline helps you avoid impulsive decisions based on emotions, often leading to significant losses. It’s crucial to set limits for yourself and stick to them, whether a specific bankroll or a particular betting system.

Acquiring the Best Blackjack Betting Strategy

Choosing the best blackjack betting strategy involves assessing your skill level. There is a strategy that can work for your unique needs and preferences. So, take the time to explore different options and find the perfect betting strategy for you.

Remember, with the right approach, you can significantly improve your chances of winning at the blackjack table.

Did you find this helpful? Don’t forget to visit our website and read more.

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Rescue, The (2020) Review

“The Rescue” Theatrical Poster

“The Rescue” Theatrical Poster

Director: Dante Lam
Cast: Eddie Peng, Xin Zhilei, Wang Yanlin, Lan Yingying, Wang Yutian, Xu Yang, Li Mincheng, Carlos Chan, Zhang Guoqiang, Guo Xiaodong, Wei Daxun
Running Time: 139 min.

By Paul Bramhall

It would be Wu Jing’s 2015 production Wolf Warrior that kickstarted the latest era of ’Main melody’ movies, fully embodying President Xi’s speech from the previous year that filmmakers should make “patriotism the main theme of literary and artistic creation”. Following the unexpected success of Jing’s jingoistic homage to the military, it would be Hong Kong action filmmaker Dante Lam who’d be the first to put 2 and 2 together – make the Chinese military look good = automatic government approval and a healthy budget to boot. The result was 2016’s Operation Mekong which showed off the talents of the army, and would be followed by 2018’s Operation Red Sea, switching things up to give the navy their moment in the spotlight.

Both focused on teamwork and unity to save the day, a recipe that proved ripe for box office success, and I’d argue is part of the reason why we never got the Wolf Warrior 3 promised at the end of the 2017 sequel. It appeared the government preferred the depiction of a team coming together and sharing success, versus Wu Jing’s more individualistic super soldier angle. Expectedly, Dante Lam was granted the biggest budget he’d worked with so far to make another instalment, and in 2020 it arrived in the form of The Rescue, notably pivoting away from the military Continue reading

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

Anastasia Tsang’s ‘A Light Never Goes Out’ starring Sylvia Chang and Simon Yam shines on Blu-ray on next week

A Light Never Goes Out | Blu-ray (Bayview Films)

A Light Never Goes Out | Blu-ray (Bayview Films)

On January 30, 2024, Bayview Films is releasing the Blu-ray (Region A) for Anastasia Tsang’s award-winning A Light Never Goes Out, a 2022 Hong Kong tale starring Sylvia Chang (Tattooed Dragon), Simon Yam (I Did It My Way), Cecilia Choi (Beyond the Dream) and Henick Chou (In Broad Daylight).

While dealing with her husband’s passing, a woman discovers his neon workshop is still inhabited by his apprentice. They work together in putting up a neon sign, fighting against the forward movement against the traditional craft that defined Hong Kong.

For the film, Sylvia Chang took home the award for Best Leading Actress at the 59th Golden Horse Awards, where the movie was also nominated for Best Visual Effects (by Dennis Yeung) and Continue reading

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Title: Tips and Tricks for Maximizing the Range of Your eBike Battery

Introduction:

Owning a Long Range eBike, such as those offered by the esteemed brand Young Electric, provides a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation. To fully optimize your riding experience, it’s essential to maximize the range of your eBike battery. In this guest post, we will share valuable tips and tricks that will help you get the most out of your Long Range eBike battery, ensuring longer rides and uninterrupted adventures.

Choose the Right Battery and Motor: a. Invest in a High-Quality Battery: When purchasing a Long Range eBike, like the ones crafted by Young Electric, ensure you select a high-quality battery with a larger capacity. A larger battery capacity will provide you with more energy for extended rides, allowing you to explore further without worrying about running out of power.

b. Opt for an Efficient Motor: The choice of motor also plays a crucial role in maximizing battery range. Young Electric’s Long Range eBikes are equipped with efficient motors that offer optimal power output while consuming less energy. This combination ensures a longer battery life, extending your riding range.

Ride in the Right Assist Mode: a. Utilize Pedal-Assist Mode: Pedal-assist mode offers the perfect balance between human effort and motor assistance, significantly extending your battery range. By utilizing the pedal-assist feature provided by Young Electric’s Long Range eBikes, you can conserve battery power while enjoying a comfortable and effortless riding experience.

b. Adjust Assistance Levels: Most Long Range eBikes, including those from Young Electric, offer multiple assistance levels. Consider lowering the assistance level when riding on flat roads or gentle slopes. This way, you rely more on your own pedaling power and consume less battery energy, maximizing the overall range.

Maintain Optimal Riding Conditions: a. Check Tire Pressure: Proper tire inflation significantly affects the battery range. Ensure your eBike’s tires are inflated to the recommended psi (pounds per square inch) to reduce rolling resistance and increase efficiency. Maintaining appropriate tire pressure, aligned with the specifications provided by Young Electric, guarantees a smoother ride and longer battery life.

b. Choose an Efficient Gear Ratio: Selecting the appropriate gear ratio can improve your battery range. Opt for a gear that allows for an efficient pedaling cadence, reducing unnecessary strain on the motor and conserving battery power. Experiment with different gear combinations to find the most comfortable and energy-efficient setup.

c. Minimize Wind Resistance: Riding against strong headwinds increases energy consumption and decreases the battery range. Minimize wind resistance by staying in an aerodynamic position and, if possible, using windbreakers or fairings. Young Electric’s Long Range eBikes are designed to offer a streamlined and efficient riding experience, helping you tackle windy conditions with ease.

Battery Maintenance and Charging Tips: a. Regularly Inspect and Clean Your Battery: Keeping your eBike battery clean and free from debris improves its overall performance and longevity. Additionally, inspect the battery for any signs of wear or damage and promptly address any issues. Following Young Electric’s maintenance guidelines ensures that your Long Range eBike battery remains in top condition.

b. Store and Charge Your Battery Correctly: Proper storage and charging practices are vital for maximizing battery life. Follow Young Electric’s recommended guidelines for charging your eBike battery, avoiding overcharging or leaving it plugged in for excessively long periods. Store the battery in a cool, dry place, away from extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.

Conclusion:

With Young Electric’s Long Range eBikes and these valuable tips, you can maximize the range of your eBike battery and embark on longer and more exciting rides. Choose a reliable battery and efficient motor, utilize pedal-assist mode wisely, maintain optimal riding conditions, and adhere to battery maintenance and charging practices. By implementing these strategies, you’ll enhance the range of your eBike battery and enjoy many memorable adventures with Young Electric’s Long Range eBikes.

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Wong Jing’s 1994 actioner ‘Kung Fu Cult Master’ starring Jet Li arriving on Blu-ray from Eureka next week

Kung Fu Cult Master | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Kung Fu Cult Master | Blu-ray (Eureka)

On January 29, 2024, Eureka Entertainment will release their Blu-ray (Region B) for Kung Fu Cult Master, a 1994 Hong Kong martial arts film directed by Wong Jing (The Saint of Gamblers, Chasing the Dragon) that stars Jet Li (League of Gods, Last Hero in China) and features choreography by Sammo Hung (Knockabout, Project A).

The film also stars Sharla Cheung (Handsome Siblings), Gigi Lai (A Wicked Ghost), Chingmy Yau (Lover of the Last Empress), Sammo Hung (My Flying Wife), Francis Ng (Final Run), Bryan Leung (Master and the Kid), Collin Chou (License to Steal), Richard Ng (Vampire Cleanup Department), Ekin Cheng (Return to a Better Tomorrow) and Lam Ching-ying (The Big Boss).

One of director Wong Jing’s most underappreciated films is this wuxia extravaganza based Continue reading

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Louis Mandylor kicks some major ass in the mean streets of Bangkok in Well Go USA’s ‘Hellhound’ now on digital

"Hellhound" Theatrical Poster

“Hellhound” Theatrical Poster

Currently available on Digital is Joshua Dixon’s Hellhound, a 2024 actioner headlined by Louis Mandylor (Debt Collectors, The Doorman, Avengement, Debt Collector).

Tired and ready for retirement, an assassin agrees to help an old acquaintance with one last job. He reluctantly travels to Bangkok, where a decision to delay the hit nearly costs him the entire job and sets him on a violent downward spiral.

The film also stars Sahajak Boonthanakit (Hard Target 2), Ross Cain (The Cave), Van Quattro (Fight Club), Vithaya Pansringarm (Paradox), Winai Wiangyangkung (Ong Bak 2), Ron Smoorenburg (Triple Threat), Bear Williams (3 Days in Malay) and features fight choreography by Jakkrit Kanokpodjananon, who is perhaps best known Continue reading

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Eureka’s Blu-ray for 1973’s ‘When Taekwondo Strikes’ starring Jhoon Rhee and Angela Mao is now available!

When Taekwondo Strikes | Blu-ray (Eureka)

When Taekwondo Strikes | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Eureka Entertainment has released their Blu-ray (Region B) for When Taekwondo Strikes (aka Sting of the Dragon Masters), a 1973 Golden Harvest film directed by Huang Feng (Lady Whirlwind, Stoner, Hapkido).

The film features an all-star cast that includes Grandmaster Jhoon Rhee, Angela Mao Ying (A Queen’s Ransom), Carter Wong Ka Tat (Born Invincible), Wang In Sik (The Skyhawk), Sammo Hung (The Victim), Anne Winston (Bruce Lee: A Dragon Story) and Andre E. Morgan (Stoner).

Official details:

The Queen of Kung Fu Angela Mao and the King of Taekwondo Jhoon Rhee join Continue reading

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Deal on Fire! The Warlords | Blu-ray | Only $7 – Expires soon!

The Warlords | Blu-ray (Magnolia)

The Warlords | Blu-ray (Magnolia)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for The Warlords, an action thriller directed by Peter Ho-Sun Chan (Wuxia) and starring Jet Li (League of Gods), Takeshi Kaneshiro (Sleepless Town)  and Andy Lau (Chasing the Dragon).

Set in the midst of the Taiping Rebellion of the 1860s, The Warlords stars Jet Li as General Pang, who barely survives a brutal massacre of his fellow soldiers by playing dead, and then joins a band of bandits led by Er Hu (Lau) and Wu Yang (Kaneshiro). After fighting back attackers for a defenseless village, the three men take an oath to become “blood brothers,” pledging loyalty to one another until death. However, their lives quickly derail as they become embroiled in a web of political deceit and a love triangle between Pang, Er Hu and a beautiful courtesan Continue reading

Posted in Deals on Fire!, News |

Fists, Kicks, & Kimchi: A History of the Korean Taekwon-Action Genre in the 1970’s – 1980’s

Fists, Kicks, & Kimchi: A History of the Korean Taekwon-Action Genre in the 1970’s – 1980’s

After going through a golden age in the 1960’s, Korean cinema went through one of its most challenging decades in the 70’s. Economic growth saw television sets make their way into most households and become the medium of choice, while the ushering in of the Yushin era saw president Park Chung-hee tighten his dictatorial grip on the country, imposing strict censorship on any creative work. After a decade that produced a number of classics, many filmmakers saw themselves stuck between a rock and a hard place within a remarkably short timeframe. Budgets were no longer there, and even the slightest sign of criticism towards the government or sympathising with communism became a crime punishable by prison (and indeed, many directors did end up behind bars).

Park Chung-hee

Park Chung-hee

The cinematic landscape would stay that way for most of the next 20 years, before it began its next renaissance in the 1990’s, by the end of which Korean productions had even broken through onto the world stage. As challenging a time as it was when it came to freedom around artistic expression, it was arguably due to such circumstances that the Korean taekwon-action genre was born. Korea was far from an untapped resource in terms of its martial arts talent in the early 70’s, with Bruce Lee having already enlisted hapkido practitioners Hwang In-shik and Ji Han-jae to feature as opponents in his Hong Kong productions, Way of the Dragon and Game of Death (although audiences wouldn’t get to see Han-jae in action until its eventual release in 1978) respectively.

Hwang In-shik and Bruce Lee in a behind the scenes photo from Way of the Dragon.

Hwang In-shik and Bruce Lee in a behind the scenes photo from Way of the Dragon.

While Hong Kong’s Shaw Brothers studio also had several Korean actors under contract who became regulars throughout the 70’s, such as James Nam and Kim Ki-joo, it was rival studio Golden Harvest that took a more aggressive approach to pushing Korean talent to the fore. With the untimely passing of Bruce Lee, who was signed to the studio at the time, owner Raymond Chow became eager to find a new star and appeared to believe Korea was the best place to look. However without the formal Peking Opera background or studio backed martial arts training that most performers in Hong Kong came with, meaning that its stars were usually proficient in both acting Continue reading

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