Blind War (2022) Review

“Blind War” Poster

Director: Suiqiang Huo
Cast: Andy On Chi Kit, Waise Lee, Yang Xing, Hank Qi, Jane Wu, Vincent Matile, Cheng Si Han, Zhang Ya Qi, Dao Dao, Li Fa Guang, Alexandre Robillard
Running Time: 100 min.

By Paul Bramhall

Is there any production looked down upon more in Asia than the Chinese web movie? Arguably no. Maybe even more so than Filipino romantic comedies. Rapidly made and rarely clocking in longer than 80 minutes (70 is much more common), the likes of iQIYI and Youku have been cranking out a constant stream of kung-fu and monster (the go-to genres of choice) flicks since the late 2010’s, with smartphones expected to be the go-to form of viewing them. The reality is most of these movies are instantly forgettable, with no higher aspiration that to keep the viewer watching for a little over an hour and make it to the end credits. However within such a lowest common denominator form of filmmaking, there are still some diamonds in the rough, mostly spurred on by the fact many stars from Hong Kong’s golden era of action cinema have found themselves a new home working within the web movie arena.

Fan Siu-Wong in One More Shot, Simon Yam in The Comeback, and Xia Miao in Eye for an Eye: The Blind Swordsman have all proven it’s still possible to keep your dignity by starring in a web movie, and even manage to look good while doing so. While virtually all the directorial talent working in the world of web movie making appear to be relatively new to the film industry, and in almost all cases have no experience other than making web movies, a few of them have looked to turn the indifference towards the format to their advantage. While the more mass consumed mainstream movies practically have to include a jingoistic element in order to please Continue reading

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Watch the Trailer for ‘Lights Out’ starring Frank Grillo, Scott Adkins, Mekhi Phifer and Dermot Mulroney

"Lights Out" Theatrical Poster

“Lights Out” Theatrical Poster

With titles like Take Back and Section 8, Christian Sesma (Vigilante Diaries) is becoming the go-to director for ensemble films featuring B-movie action stars. His latest, Lights Out (read our review), for LA-based production company Firebrand, will feature an all-star cast that includes Frank Grillo (Boss Level), Mekhi Phifer (Truth Be Told), Scott Adkins (Castle Falls), JuJu Chan (Jiu Jitsu), Dermot Mulroney (Hanna), Jaime King (Bulletproof Monk) and MMA fighter-turned-actor Donald Cerrone (Project Legion).

In Lights Out, a homeless veteran, Michael “Duffy” Duffield (Grillo), meets a talkative Ex-Con, Max Bomer (Phifer) who notices Duffy’s skills after he gets into a bar fight and offers him a well-paying “job” competing in underground fight clubs. The pair form an unlikely partnership after their first fight and decide to travel to LA so Duffy can atone for his past and Max can pay back a crime boss, Sage Continue reading

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7 Benefits of Magic Mushroom Gummies

Don’t let anyone tell you that it’s just hippies doing shrooms and LSD. There’s evidence from at least 3,000 years ago of humans tripping on “acid.”

That’s right, our ancestors for thousands of years have been using psychedelics for rituals and spiritual exploration. There are many different types of mushrooms that all induce different experiences. So what can you expect when taking something like magic mushroom gummies?

Let’s take a look at the seven benefits of mushrooms when you decide to take some. There are many health benefits of mushrooms – among other kinds.

1. Magic Mushroom Gummies May Alleviate Depression

Depression is a widespread issue in our modern world, likely because of the destigmatization of mental illness. Even though people are more open about it, though, it doesn’t make it easier to treat. Many have become disillusioned when SSRIs and other common treatments fail to work.

Some studies have suggested that taking psilocybin may reduce depressive symptoms. Granted, more research is needed before scientists can make any conclusions. But this preliminary look paints a bright picture of mushrooms for medicinal purposes.

That said, do not self-medicate with gummies. Always consult your psychiatrist before beginning treatment.

2. It Might Help with Substance Abuse

Quitting smoking, drinking, or hard drugs is a huge undertaking. Smoking is one of the most addictive practices on earth and alcoholism is sometimes dependent on genetics. Being able to quit with greater ease would change the world.

Some preliminary studies allude to good things. Take this one that suggests mushrooms could help kill cravings and prevent relapse.

Of course, we need a lot more research to confirm this. But the future is looking bright if people can take mushroom gummies to rehabilitate themselves. Just make sure you know about the interactions between shrooms and alcohol.

3. Headache and Migraine Reduction

Headaches and migraines are horrible, but not just because of the pain. Rather, because headaches (especially migraines) have very few effective, long-term treatment options. If you suffer migraines, you often just have to grin and bear it.

People who suffer from migraines and cluster headaches will be happy to know that one study suggests psilocybin can alleviate symptoms. Like many things on this list, users wouldn’t need to go on a trip to get results. Taking microdoses could be effective enough.

That said, other studies have suggested that it worsens headaches. So it might be worth waiting for more information on this one.

4. PTSD Treatment

Post-traumatic stress disorder affects a wide range of people, from veterans to abuse victims. It’s one of the trickiest forms of mental illness to treat. PTSD can happen from any kind of traumatic event, whether fighting in war or suffering at the hands of a negligent partner.

Digging into all the trauma is deeply uncomfortable. The only way to treat PTSD is to identify the trauma and find out what symptoms it is causing. This makes PTSD treatment a precarious game, one where therapists risk worsening their patient’s condition.

In addition to this, the medications that are proven to work are very limited. Our understanding of PTSD is limited, so we still need a great deal of research to address it. Any successful alternative treatment would change the game entirely.

There is a small body of research that suggests PTSD victims can manage or alleviate symptoms with mushrooms. Keep in mind that most of the evidence is anecdotal. Some evidence goes against this grain.

5. Controlling Anxiety and Panic Attacks

Depression may have grown in prominence, but anxiety takes the cake. Everyone these days is anxious. It would appear that more people are taking medication to manage anxiety than any other mental illness.

Anxiety is a difficult thing to treat because it’s not just a mental thing. It’s a physiological reaction that happens from a deep evolutionary core. In essence, it’s happening from every cell in your body.

The problem is that medications for managing anxiety are controversial. This medication can provoke unwanted side effects and sometimes exacerbate anxiety symptoms. That’s why it’s hopeful news that using mushrooms may be a worthwhile alternative.

Some studies have demonstrated that taking psilocybin reduces anxiety around life-threatening diagnoses. People become more optimistic, even with death anxiety. It’s only one study, but it’s a good start.

6. They Aid Spiritual Exploration

Most of the fanfare that magic mushrooms get has to do with the effect they have on spiritual exploration. After all, shrooms induce powerful visual and auditory hallucinations. They call it a trip for a reason; the shrooms take you on a trip to another “dimension.”

It’s easy to discount this as just people on drugs, but these experiences behind the curtain are often life-changing. People deal with their problems head-on. They get a chance to make amends, conquer fears, and so much more.

This is not pseudoscience, either. It has been proven time and time again that if you take shrooms, you will trip. What happens during that trip is highly personal and depends on you.

Many people use it as a form of spiritual self-exploration and realization. You might take it after a faith crisis, or to increase your spiritual knowledge. Whatever your reason for doing so, anecdotal experience suggests it’s positive on the whole.

7. They Help with Bereavement

There’s no easy way to handle bereavement. Once you have lost someone, they are gone forever. Those suffering this loss often say that the pain never goes away.

One benefit of shrooms is that they reflect back to you the things going on in your mind. Many who take shrooms have had the opportunity to meet a dead relative, partner, or friend. Even though it’s a hallucination, it’s a powerful tool for grieving and overcoming grief.

Try Shrooms Today

Many people are reticent to take magic mushroom gummies for fear of a bad trip or addiction. That said, there is a growing body of research suggesting the many mental and health benefits of taking them. It’s worth a shot and may provide a solution you wouldn’t find elsewhere.

Follow our blog for more great articles.

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Flying Swordsman, The | The Hidden Fox (2022) Review

The Flying Swordsman | DVD (Well Go USA)

The Flying Swordsman | DVD (Well Go USA)

AKA: The Hidden Fox
Director: Qiao Lei
Cast: Zhao Huawei, Fu Jia, Yusi Chen, Ray Lui Leung Wai, Shanshan Chunyu, Zihan Chen
Running Time: 104 min. 

By Will McGuire

The Flying Swordsman (aka The Hidden Fox) is great entertainment. It is, like the best of contemporary wuxia films, a strong evolution of the style that began in the late-60’s revival of the genre at Shaw Brothers and though it has some dodgy production values in places it features assured direction, lyrical action, and a wonderful confidence about presenting its story that permeates the whole film. Donnie Yen’s recent Sakra felt like someone trying to encapsulate the entire wuxia genre, whereas this film just feels like someone tried to make a good one and I ended up enjoying it much more for the lowered ambitions.

Zhao Huawei plays Gui Yu, a young swordsman whose father and his chief rival were manipulated and murdered by a gang of evil martial artists in search of a hidden treasure. Ten years later and he’s partnered with Yin Ji (Fu Jia) looking for a key in a tavern, when he unexpectedly sets off a series of traps he’s engineering to draw in the eight killers who have murdered his father. Wuxia stories, having evolved from long form Chinese pulps, have complicated plots by their nature but this one was almost on the level of a Chor Yun film to follow, and it was made even Continue reading

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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Vape Tank for Your Needs

Hey there, fellow vapers! Looking to enhance your vaping experience? Choosing the right vape tank is crucial! With countless options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! Join us on an exciting journey as we present the ultimate guide to finding the best vape tank.

From exploring the latest technologies to understanding airflow and coil compatibility, this comprehensive guide equips you with the knowledge for an informed decision. Dive into the world of vape tanks and unlock a world of flavor, vapor production, and satisfaction like never before!

What’s a Vape Tank Anyway?

Let us start by exploring the fundamentals of vaping essentials. The vape tank, a crucial component of your vape device, is responsible for holding and storing the e-liquid. Within this humble reservoir, the magic happens-the conversion of your preferred e-juice into luscious, flavorful clouds of vapor, creating an immersive and gratifying vaping experience.

Size Matters – Capacity and Portability

Think about how much you vape. If you are a heavy vaper, a larger tank might be your best buddy. But if you’re always on the go, a smaller, more portable tank could be a lifesaver. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between capacity and convenience.

Coil Compatibility – Making Your Vape Sizzle

Coils are like the heart of your vape tank, responsible for heating your e-liquid and transforming it into satisfying vapor. It is crucial to ensure compatibility between your tank and coils to optimize your vaping experience.

Some tanks come with specially designed coils tailored to their specifications, offering precise performance, while others provide greater versatility, allowing you to experiment with different coil options to find your perfect vape. So, take the time to explore and choose the coils that best suit your preferences and enhance your vaping pleasure.

Airflow – Smooth or Intense Hits?

The airflow in your tank affects how your vape feels. More airflow can give you those airy, smooth hits, while less airflow might give you a tighter, more intense draw. It is like choosing between a gentle breeze and a strong gust of wind.

Material Matters – Glass, Plastic, or Metal?

Vape tanks come in different materials-glass, plastic, and metal. Glass tanks are great for preserving flavor, while plastic ones are more durable. Metal tanks? Well, they’re tough as nails but might not let you see your e-liquid levels.

Ohm’s Law – Resistance and Power

If you are into customizing your vape experience, pay attention to the resistance of your coils. Lower resistance coils usually mean more power and warmer vapor, while higher resistance coils might give you a cooler vape.

Personal Style – Looks Do Matter

Your style shines through your vape! Thankfully, geekvape starter kits offer tanks in various shapes, hues, and styles. Whether you fancy a sleek, minimalistic look or prefer bold, eye-catching designs, there’s a tank tailored just for you.

Discovering Your Best Vape Tank – A Journey Towards Excellence

So, there you have it-the lowdown on choosing the best vape tank for your needs. Remember, it’s all about finding the tank that ticks off your boxes: capacity, coil compatibility, airflow, material, resistance, and style.

Take your time exploring the options. Ask fellow vapers for recommendations. And most importantly, trust your gut! Your perfect vape tank is out there waiting for you to take that satisfying inhale.

Here’s to finding the best vape tank that’ll make every puff an absolute delight! Happy vaping!

Want to learn more? Don’t forget to explore our other articles before you leave!

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Deal on Fire! Sword Master | Blu-ray | Only $8.99 – Expires soon!

Sword Master | Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

Sword Master | Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for Derek Yee’s Sword Master (read our review). The film is a remake of Chor Yuen’s Death Duel, a 1977 Shaw Brothers film that Yee starred in during the height of his acting career.

In this wuxia epic, a swordsman is haunted by the destructive impact his deadly talents have on others. Weary of the bloodshed from the martial arts world, he banishes himself to the humble life a vagrant, wandering the fringes of society. But his violent past refuses to let him go quietly. The swordsman must regain the ability to wield his sword and fight those disrupting the peace he so desperately craves.

As with the original, the remake is an adaptation of Ku Lung’s Third Master’s Sword (literal title). The film is produced by Continue reading

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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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