I Did It My Way (2023) Review

"I Did It My Way" Theatrical Poster

“I Did It My Way” Theatrical Poster

Director: Jason Kwan
Cast: Andy Lau Tak-Wah, Gordon Lam, Cya Liu, Eddie Peng, Simon Yam, Chan Chun-Fung, Kent Cheng, Hedwig Tam, Lam Suet, Philip Keung, Mike Leeder
Running Time: 115 min.

By Paul Bramhall

On paper at least, I Did It My Way feels like it should be the subtitle for a 4th instalment of The White Storm franchise. Like each instalment of the popular action thrillers, the focus is on a trio of characters in a plot centered around the drug trade, with undercover cops, brotherhood, and loyalty all playing important parts in the narrative. However, it’s not, instead being the sophomore solo directorial outing for Jason Kwan, a director of photography who turned director in 2017 with A Nail Clipper Romance, and would go on to co-helm both Chasing the Dragon and its sequel with Wong Jing (for whom he’d lensed 2012’s The Last Tycoon). Having no doubt picked up a few pointers from Jing’s 40-year career sitting in the director’s chair, Kwan’s latest comes with a heavyweight cast of Hong Kong talent.

Taking an Infernal Affairs-esque approach, Andy Lau (Mission Milano, Shock Wave 2) plays a lawyer who’s secretly one of Asia’s biggest supplier of drugs on the dark web, an endeavour that he apparently got into to support his pregnant bride-to-be. For any long time fans of Hong Kong cinema who are wondering if a character having a pregnant partner has changed much over the years, the answer is no – it’s still the equivalent of carrying a sign board that reads “I’m going to die tragically before the end credits.” Meanwhile Gordon Lam (Hand Rolled Cigarette, Paradox) plays one of his trusted associates, but is really a tortured undercover cop who just wants out Continue reading

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Green Dreams: How to Get Into the Cannabis Industry

Are you interested in the budding cannabis industry? You’re not alone. Many are seeking ways on how to get into the cannabis industry.

It’s a booming field, with potential for growth and success. Yet, breaking in can be tricky. This guide aims to simplify the process.

We’ll walk you through the steps, from understanding cannabis laws to acquiring the right skills. By the end, you’ll have a clearer path to follow. Let’s embark on this journey together.

Educate Yourself

Understanding the cannabis industry is key. Read about cannabis laws and regulations. This can vary by state or country.

Learn about the different cannabis products and uses. This knowledge will make you more appealing to employers. It shows you are serious about the industry.

There are many online courses available. You can also attend workshops or seminars. These offer deeper insights into the industry. The more you know, the better prepared you will be.

Gain Experience

Relevant experience is an important factor in getting hired. Look for internships or volunteer for cannabis opportunities within the industry. Even if it’s a non-paid position, the experience and connections you gain will be valuable.

You can also offer your skills to businesses in the industry. For instance, if you have marketing experience, offer your services to a cannabis company looking to expand their brand.

Network

Networking is crucial in any industry. Attend cannabis events and conferences. This will help you connect with professionals already working in the industry.

Joining online forums or groups can also be beneficial. You can ask questions, share knowledge, and make connections.

Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Many job opportunities come through referrals or connections.

Stay Informed

The cannabis industry is constantly evolving. Stay up-to-date on the latest news, trends, and regulations. This will show employers that you are passionate and knowledgeable about the industry.

Joining professional organizations or subscribing to industry newsletters can help you stay informed.

Be Professional

Working in the cannabis industry does not mean it’s a casual work environment. Treat job interviews and networking events as you would in any other industry. Dress professionally, be punctual, and present yourself with confidence.

Also, keep in mind that this industry is still highly regulated. Employers will expect their employees to follow all laws and regulations surrounding the use and distribution of marijuana.

Consider Starting a Cannabis Business

Starting a cannabis business can be a profitable venture. First, create a business plan. This outlines your goals and strategies. Understand the laws in your area because they can impact your operations.

Secure funding for your business. It is crucial to have enough capital. Explore cannabis business loans from alternative lenders who understand the industry. These lenders often provide flexible terms and conditions.

Get the required licenses. These are necessary for legal operation. Also, building a strong team will help your business succeed.

Mastering How to Get Into the Cannabis Industry

Understanding how to get into the cannabis industry involves a mixture of education, gaining relevant experience, networking, and securing sufficient funding. By staying informed and professional, you can carve your path into this rapidly growing cannabis market.

The journey may be challenging, but the potential rewards make it worthwhile. Now, armed with these tips, you are ready to step into the burgeoning world of cannabis.

Did this article help you? If so, take a look at some of our other blog posts for more informative reads.

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Remakes and the Legacy of The Flash Legs (1977)

On the surface, if there’s one thing that defines this era of entertainment, it’s remakes and remasters. Experts like to frame things a different way, though. Film Studies lecturer Dr. Matthew Jones claims we’ve been living with this culture of repetition since about 1896 and the origin of film.

The only difference, Dr. Jones said, in a conversation with Cosmopolitan, is that there are more remakes at certain points in time than others.

All anybody has to do is look at a franchise like Batman or King Kong to realize that few things are complete without their origin story, a point that keeps condemning Thomas and Martha Wayne to death between the grimy walls of Crime Alley in Gotham. Thus, we get the same yarn spun over and over again.

American Remake

In martial arts circles, things are no different. Jet Li’s 1994 vehicle Fist of Legend was built on the groundwork laid by Fist of Fury (1972), starring Bruce Lee. The 2010 movie 13 Assassins was, of course, a remake of the 1963 epic, while Dragon Inn (1992) and Dragons Inn (1967) have the same lineage. Then, there’s 2011’s The Raid, which is pending an American remake from disaster merchant Michael Bay.

The 1991 film Breathing Fire, a silly US movie that our own Henry McKeand described as depicting a group of bank robbers “searching for a slice of pizza”, is also a remake of an earlier film, The Flash Legs. Directed by Ma Wu and released in 1977, The Flash Legs offers a more traditional martial arts romp, albeit with a heist twist.

Ocean’s 11

The heist genre is a notorious breeding ground for remakes, with The Italian Job (1969 and 2003) and Ocean’s 11 (1960 and 2001) serving as perfect examples. Of course, this demand for retelling comes from the overall popularity of heists and bank robberies in fiction.

In gaming, Grand Theft Auto has made thieves out of us all, just like the Payday franchise did. A fondness for heists can be found in casino gaming, too. Playstar, a real-money online casino NJ, carries the Ice Heist slot, alongside the GTA-like West Coast Cash. These games usually task the player with opening (or finding) a safe for prizes.

The Flash Legs guides the viewer through a treasure hunt involving The Eight Dragons, a band of fighting rogues. Following a botched robbery, the Dragons split an octagonal map up into eight parts, with each segment going to a particular thief.

Breathing Fire

In the end, The Flash Legs tells a now-standard story of betrayal and greed, as The Eight Dragons whittle themselves down to just a handful of members.

What makes the film so interesting is how it ties actor Tan Tao-liang’s (Fong Yee) career together. After starring in The Flash Legs in 1977, the Chinese-Korean would eventually go on to write the American remake, Breathing Fire. It also wound up being his final cinematic project, as he retired in 1991.

How the octagonal map of The Flash Legs became the eight slices of pizza in Breathing Fire is anybody’s guess.

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The Rise of Full Spectrum Edibles in the Cannabis Industry

The cannabis industry has been experiencing significant growth. With this growth comes a variety of products and consumption methods. One such product that has been gaining popularity is full spectrum edibles.

But what exactly are full spectrum edibles, and why are they becoming so popular? In this article, we will explore the full-spectrum edibles in the cannabis industry.

What are Full Spectrum Edibles?

Full spectrum edibles are a type of cannabis-infused food or drink. It contains all compounds found in the cannabis plant, including:

  • cannabinoids
  • terpenes
  • flavonoids

This means that they provide a full range of effects and benefits from the plant. Other cannabis products only contain isolated compounds.

Full-spectrum edibles can come in various forms. They offer a discreet and convenient way for individuals. This is to consume cannabis without having to inhale it.

The Entourage Effect

The reason why entire spectrum edibles are gaining popularity is due to the “entourage effect”. This term refers to the idea that all compounds in the cannabis plant work together.

This is to enhance each other’s effects. These compounds amplify and complement each other’s benefits when consumed together.

Research has shown that full-spectrum products may provide stronger and longer-lasting effects. Multiple cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavored CBD oil can target different body receptors. It results in a more comprehensive and well-rounded experience.

Health Benefits

Full spectrum edibles offer a unique experience. This also provides potential health benefits. Cannabinoids such as water-soluble CBD and THC have been shown to have:

  • anti-inflammatory
  • analgesic
  • neuroprotective properties

This can provide calming and uplifting effects. Flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.

Individuals can experience a wide range of benefits from these compounds working together. This is especially beneficial for individuals seeking relief from certain medical conditions. Looking for a natural and holistic way to improve their well-being.

Quality Control

One of the challenges in the cannabis industry is ensuring product consistency and quality. This can be even more challenging, requiring precise measurements and extraction methods. This is to ensure that all compounds are present in the final product.

To address this issue, some companies have implemented strict quality control measures. This not only provides confidence for consumers but also helps legitimize the cannabis industry as a whole.

Choosing the Right CBD Edible

Selecting the right CBD product is a personal journey that depends largely on individual needs, preferences, and lifestyle factors. It’s essential to consider:

  • the concentration of CBD
  • the form of consumption
  • the quality of the product
  • your specific wellness goals

Regarding concentration, full-spectrum CBD products range in strength, with some containing as little as 5 mg of CBD per serving and others as much as 50 mg or more. If you’re new to CBD, starting with a lower dose is typically recommended, and you must find the right CBD for you.

Understanding the Rise of Full Spectrum Edibles

The rise of full spectrum edibles in the cannabis industry is driven by various factors such as consumer demand for more natural and holistic products, potential health benefits, and the entourage effect. As more research is conducted on the cannabis plant and its compounds, we can expect to see even more innovative products like full spectrum edibles emerge in the market.

For more helpful tips, check out the rest of our site today!

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‘Versus’ star Tak Sakaguchi returns in the upcoming Blu-ray for ‘One Percenter’ from ‘Yakuza Weapon’ helmer

One Percenter | Blu-ray (Third Window Films)

One Percenter | Blu-ray (Third Window Films)

On March 11, 2024, Third Window Films is releasing the Blu-ray (Region B) for One Percenter, starring martial arts star, Tak Sakaguchi (Battlefield Baseball, Re:Born).

For the film, Sakaguchi re-teams with filmmaker Yudai Yamaguchi, who previously worked with Tak as writer on Versus, and as director on Yakuza Weapon. These two, packaged with choreographer Kensuke Sonomura (Hyrda), earns One Percenter a spot on your must-see list.

Action film actor Takuma Toshiro is a man with only one goal: the perfection of action film acting. But when his samurai-approach to the profession clashes with an industry addicted to wires, CGI and quick edits, Toshiro and his trusty apprentice Akira decide to make their dream film themselves. When Continue reading

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Vinegar Syndrome delivers a double-dose of Jade Leung with Stephen Shin’s ‘Black Cat 1 & 2’ Blu-ray collection

Black Cat 1 & 2 | Blu-ray (Vinegar Syndrome)

Later this month, Vinegar Syndrome is releasing the Blu-ray for 1991’s Black Cat and 1992’s Black Cat 2. The two films are directed by Stephen Shin (Great Conqueror’s Concubine 1 & 2) and collectively star Jade Leung (Satin Steel), Simon Yam (Final Run) and Robin Shou (Cyprus Tigers).

Official details:

Black Cat (96 min): After brutally killing an abusive trucker at a rest stop, tough as nails drifter Catherine soon finds herself facing life in prison due to her violent outbursts. But, when a daring escape from the courthouse leaves her all but dead, Catherine awakens to find she’s been given another lease on life, the only catch: she must train to become an assassin for the CIA under the codename Black Cat. With the tutelage of fellow agent, Brian (Simon Yam), Catherine must learn to give up any chance Continue reading

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Haunted Samurai (1970) Review

"Haunted Samurai" Theatrical Poster

“Haunted Samurai” Theatrical Poster

Director: Keiichi Ozawa
Cast: Hideki Takahashi, Masako Izumi, Isao Natsuyagi, Seiichiro Kameishi, Shoki Fukae, Yûji Odaka, Eiji Go, Masaya Oka, Utako Shibusawa, Maya Kitajima
Running Time: 83 min.

By Will McGuire

Haunted Samurai is the perfect companion to a Lone Wolf and Cub movie marathon. This 1970 saga of evil Yagyu ninjas and noble samurai straining between the rigors of their code and the needs of their conscience feels like it takes place around the corner from the 1972 chambara classic Sword of Vengeance. That shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise given that both films are derived from the work of legendary manga creator Goseki Kojima, and both bear his striking ability to dramatize the ruthless amorality of the historical samurai against raw human problems– the heart in conflict with itself.

What I found fascinating upon watching the Diabolik Blu-ray release of the film for the first time was how the central conceit of the film both echoed, and was diametrically opposed to that of its more famous Baby Cart brothers: Rokuheita Kusanagi (Hideki Takahashi) is an enforcer for the brutal Yagyu clan charged with killing deserters, and leaving their bones to be picked apart by the crows as a warning. When his most recent execution results in the suicide Continue reading

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France’s answer to ‘The Raid’? Don’t miss a Newest hard-hitting clip for ‘Mayhem!’ from ‘Hitman’ director Xavier Gens

"Mayhem!" Theatrical Poster

“Mayhem!” Theatrical Poster

Coming soon from Xavier Gens – director of Gangs of London and Hitman – is Mayhem! (aka Farang), a French martial arts actioner starring Nassim Lyes (The Last Mercenary), Olivier Gourmet (Mesrine: Public Enemy No. 1), Vithaya Pansringarm (Attrition) and Loryn Nounay (Carrément craignos).

Sam is a professional boxer about to get released from prison. While on parole, his past catches up with him and he has no choice but to flee. Five years later, he has rebuilt a simple life on an exotic island in Thailand with his wife and her daughter, but when he gets blackmailed by a dangerous local godfather, he must embark on a dangerous drug smuggling mission which results in a tragedy. Now has only one purpose: to seek merciless vengeance.

Mayhem! is getting a Continue reading

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Deal on Fire! Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back | Blu-ray | Only $9.50 – Expires soon!

Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back | Blu-ray & DVD (Sony)

Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back | Blu-ray & DVD (Sony)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for Stephen Chow (Shaolin Soccer) and Tsui Hark’s (Young Detective Dee) Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back.

In this sequel (read our review) to Journey to the West, Hark takes over directing duties, while Chow produces. This time around, the cast consists of Vicky Zhao (14 Blades), Kris Wu (The Mermaid) and Kenny Lin (The Taking of Tiger Mountain). Shu Qi returns in a cameo role.

The original (read our review) centered on Tang Sanzang, a Buddhist trying to protect a village from three demons, his emerging feelings for Miss Duan, the demon hunter who helps him repeatedly, and Sanzang’s transformative encounter Continue reading

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Watch the Trailer James Nunn’s ‘One More Shot’ starring Scott Adkins, Michael J. White and Tom Berenger

"One More Shot" Teaser Poster

“One More Shot” Teaser Poster

Martial arts star Scott Adkins (Ip Man 4, Triple Threat) and action director James Nunn (One Shot, Eliminators, Green Street 3: Never Back Down) are teaming up for a 4th time for One More Shot, a sequel to their 2021 actioner, One Shot.

Like its predecessor, the sequel will feature action scenes filmed in a single continuous take. Following the attack on the black site in Poland, Navy SEAL Jake Harris (Adkins) is ordered to escort terrorist suspect Amin Mansur (Waleed Elgadi) to Washington D.C for interrogation.

Also starring in the film is Michael J. White (Triple Threat, Accident Man), Tom Berenger (Sniper), Alexis Knapp (Pitch Perfect), Jill Winternitz (Havoc), Hannah Arterton (Safe), Meena Rayann (Game of Thones) and Continue reading

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A Blind War, Curry & Pepper, Yuen Woo-ping and some Breaking News: Here’s what’s on Hi-YAH in January

Hi-YAH!, Well Go USA’s very own Asian/martial arts streaming channel has just announced their New Release line up for the month of January, which includes a New title added to Hi-YAH! every Friday.

If you want to give Hi-YAH! a go, visitors of this site can use the promo code “CITYONFIRE” for a FREE 30 Day trial!

Read on for the full list of New and Exclusive Continue reading

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Reality TV Scandals: why people are interested in them

Reality TV has become a mainstay of popular culture since the 1990’s with shows like Big Brother, and the numerous looks at day to day jobs in places like hotels and airports, and it’s a format which has continued to endure and evolve over the years.  Whereas back then if any scandal broke about the people who appeared in such shows would be limited to being covered in newspapers, magazines, and entertainment shows, today it’s likely to flood your feeds through social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, and X.

But why are people interested in such scandals in the first place?  According to CyberGhost, a lot of it has to do with the fact that as part of human nature, being exposed to other people’s problems make us feel like maybe ours aren’t so bad after all – especially when those people are beautiful, rich, and famous.  What’s more interesting about people’s interest in reality TV scandals, is that those who have read all the juicy details often don’t have the same interest in whatever reality TV show those involved are originally from.

When such scandals make the news and start appearing in the likes of NBC, The New York Time, and The Independents entertainment sections alongside stories of A-list celebrities, people find themselves unconsciously being exposed to reality TV and becoming invested in the outcome.  Someone who may never have heard or shown any interest in such shows as Vanderpump Rules, or Keeping Up with the Kardashians, may now find themselves actively seeking them out in order to get to know those involved and further their own opinions on the matter.

Indeed while such scandals may seem trivial at first, both to those involved and to the general public, if anything the echo chamber of social media and constant flow of live feeds today’s world comes with has proven different.  No faux pas or misdemeanour is too small to avoid a content creators need for new content, and as a result such incidents become a part of popular culture that it’s impossible not to be aware of.

One such example was the infamous Scandoval Scandal that stemmed from the Vanderpump Rules show.  The drama centers around former longtime couple and staff members Ariana Madax and Tom Sandoval. Madax repeatedly defended Sandoval and friend, Raquel Leviss, when accusations of them having an affair surfaced. Just by chance in March of 2023, Madax noticed Sandoval dropped his phone at one of his concerts, after picking it up she opened the phone and found proof of the affair. Thus Scandoval (scandal + Sandoval) was born.

At the end of the day such scandals serve as a reminder that everyone is human, and by seeing these people in such elevated positions featuring on reality TV also show that they’re capable of messing up like everyone else, it can also act to make them more relatable to the people watching.  One thing for sure is that, for the moment, reality TV is here to stay.

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A treasure lies in the martial arts actioner ‘The Flying Swordsman’ arriving on DVD from Well Go USA on January 9

The Flying Swordsman | DVD (Well Go USA)

The Flying Swordsman | DVD (Well Go USA)

On January 9, 2024,  Well Go USA is releasing the DVD for The Flying Swordsman (read our review), a 2022 martial arts actioner from director Lei Qiao (The Assassin, Damocles) that stars Huawei Zhao (Sakra), Yusi Chen (Mojin: The Worm Valley), Ray Lui (Operation Bangkok), Shanshan Chunyu (Wolf Warrior 2) and Zihan Chen (New Kung Fu Colt Master).

After a wicked plot to steal a hidden fortune results in the death of two renowned warriors, the map leading to the treasure’s rumored location inexplicably disappears. But when the map is finally located a decade later, the eight assassins from the original plot re-emerge only to be challenged by a mysterious swordsman motivated by more than mere money—this unknown warrior is out for blood.

Pre-order Continue reading

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When Taekwondo Strikes | aka Sting of the Dragon Masters (1973) Review

"When Taekwondo Strikes" Theatrical Poster

“When Taekwondo Strikes” Theatrical Poster

Director: Huang Feng
Cast: Jhoon Rhee, Angela Mao, Anne Winston, Kenji Kazuma, Carter Wong, Wang In Sik, Sammo Hung, Andre Morgan, Chin Yuet Sang, Gam Kei Chu, Chan Chuen, Wilson Tong, Billy Chan, Hsu Hsia, Lam Ching Ying
Running Time: 95 min. 

By Paul Bramhall

If there was ever a decade when taekwondo had its chance to shine in Hong Kong action cinema, then it was the 1970’s. Following Bruce Lee’s untimely passing both Golden Harvest boss Raymond Chow and Seasonal Films founder Ng See Yuen frequently sought out taekwondo practitioners to fill the void that Lee left behind with varying degrees of success. However the origins of their fascination with taekwondo arguably started with Bruce Lee himself, who in 1972 convinced Chow to green light a production for his Korean friend Jhoon Rhee, a taekwondo teacher based in the States who would come to be considered the father of taekwondo in America. That production became When Taekwondo Strikes, and sadly Bruce would pass away shortly before the finished product would arrive on Hong Kong cinema screens in September of 1973.

The Little Dragon’s insistence that Rhee could be a legitimate leading martial arts star is certainly an interesting take, since Rhee was already 41 when he’d make his cinematic debut, and after the release of When Taekwondo Strikes he’d only go on to appear in 1 other production (a supporting role in 1981’s The Return of the Great Fighter, which was directed by Miami Connection’s Park Woo-sang). However as his one and only time in the lead, Rhee’s influence is undeniable. He contributed to the story, which unusually for Hong Kong cinema led to tales which focused Continue reading

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Watch New Featurettes for Michelle Yeoh’s 8-Part martial arts underworld thriller ‘The Brothers Sun’

"The Brothers Sun" Japanese Netflix Poster

“The Brothers Sun” Japanese Netflix Poster

Action legend Michelle Yeoh (Everything Everywhere All at Once, Royal Warriors) and newcomer Justin Chien (Snapchat series Two Sides: Unfaithful) lead The Brothers Sun, an upcoming 8-part Netflix series that centers around the Asian underworld.

The Brothers Sun follows Charles Sun (Chien), a Taipei gangster who’s settled into his life as a ruthless killer, but must go to L.A. to protect his mother and younger brother after his father was shot by a mysterious assassin.

The Brothers Sun comes from American Horror Story co-creator Brad Falchuk and Byron Wu. Kevin Tancharoen (The Book of Boba Fett) will serve as director and executive producer (via Deadline).

The Brothers Sun also stars Continue reading

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