R2B: Return to Base (2012) Review

Posted on September 16, 2012 by Z Ravas
"R2B: Return to Base" Korean Theatrical Poster

"R2B: Return to Base" Korean Theatrical Poster

AKA: Back Eagle
Director: Kim Dong-Won
Writer: Ahn Sang-Hun, Kim Dong-Won
Producer: Jang Tae-Gon, Kim Dong-Won
Cast: Rain, Yu Jun-Sang, Shin Se-Kyung, Kim Sung-Soo, Lee Ha-Na, Lee Jong-Seok, Jeong Kyung-Ho, Baek Bong-Gi
Running Time: 113 min.

By HKFanatic

Western audiences will most likely recognize actor Rain from Hollywood movies like “Speed Racer” and “Ninja Assassin.” But in his native South Korea, Rain is a bonafied superstar thanks to his pop music and acting career. 2012’s “R2B: Return to Base” holds the distinction of being the last project Rain selected before beginning his mandatory 21 month military service. Fitting enough, “R2B” is a fist-pumping, patriotic action film designed to make South Korea’s military look as cool as humanly possible. Thanks to its big emotions and top-notch special effects, the movie should be an easy sell in foreign territories as well.

Like other recent Korean blockbusters such as “Tidal Wave” and “Sector 7,” this film spends its opening hour establishing characters and creating melodrama – with nary an action set-piece in sight. Some of these scenes feel like they only exist to pad the screentime, especially since a few of our supporting characters – like the bumbling mechanic duo – have absolutely no bearing on the third act of the movie. The story itself is essentially a Korean riff on “Top Gun” with Rain starring as a hotshot pilot whose, well, maverick tendencies see him kicked out of an air show unit and land in the Korean military.

Rain plays the kind of protagonist who’s so damn cocky and convinced of his skill that the screenwriters seem to have forgotten they needed to make him likable too. In fact, many of our peripheral characters – like a fresh-faced rookie who bonds with the Search & Rescue team, or the single dad who’s trying to be a good father as well as an air force pilot – are much more engaging and could have served as better main characters for “R2B.” Rain is certainly an actor with screen presence but his character, as written, is not very sympathetic.

But, of course, Rain’s rebellious pilot is skilled in the skies – and those skills will come in handy when a military coup late in the film leads to a rogue North Korean military jet firing its weapons in downtown Seoul. What follows is some of the most impressive aerial dog fights ever seen in a movie, with special effects that easily hold their own among Hollywood’s best. These are the moments of immense property damage and daring aerial maneuvers that were used to sell “R2B” in the film’s trailer – and they do not disappoint.

Sure, “Return to Base” isn’t the most original film around, as the screenplay feels populated by stock characters and sculpted from the Tom Cruise Eighties playbook. But the plot hits the right notes, the actors are charismatic, and the third act packs in enough action and collateral damage for several other movies. “R2B” is for fans of Rain – of course – but also for anyone who enjoys the slick, commercial side of Korean filmmaking.

HKFanatic’s Rating: 7/10

Posted in Korean, Reviews | Tagged , |

The Definitive Document of the Dead: Limited Edition Blu-ray & DVD (Synapse Films)

Posted on September 16, 2012 by JJ Bona
The Definitive Document of the Dead: Limited Edition Blu-ray & DVD (Synapse Films)

The Definitive Document of the Dead: Limited Edition Blu-ray & DVD (Synapse Films)

RELEASE DATE: November 13, 2012

Synapse Films presents the Blu-ray & DVD for Roy Frumkes’ The Definitive Document of the Dead: Limited Edition, an in-depth documentary about George A. Romero’s films, with a behind scenes look at Dawn of the Dead. The documentary features interviews George A. Romero, Tom Savini, Roy Frumkes, Richard Rubinstein and many more.

This release will be limited to 1500 units and sold exclusively via the label’s web site. Check out its original Japanese promotional video.

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

So Close (2002) Review

Posted on September 16, 2012 by JJ Bona
"So Close" Theatrical Poster

“So Close” Theatrical Poster

Director: Corey Yuen
Cast: Shu Qi, Vicky Zhao Wei, Karen Mok, Song Seung Heon, Ben Lam, Yasuaki Kurata, Deric Wan, Sek Sau, Jude Poyer, Ricardo Mamood, Michael Wei, Henry Fong, Gam Hing Yin, Wong So Bik, May Gwong Man Chun
Running Time: 111 min

By Reefer

During the preposterous opening of Cory Yuen’s action thriller, So Close, I thought I was going to be treated to a half-assed rehashing of the Charlie’s Angels movie from a few years back. After all, watching Shu Qui, dressed in a white designer outfit, sashay into a skyscraper, armed with only her wits, a pair of high heels, and some sunglasses, only to bust some Matrix-influenced moves and smirk confidently at the resulting chaos, instantly leads one to draw those parallels. Moreover, scattered throughout are enough bra and panty scenes, bath tub settings, and skimpy outfits to satisfy a legion of stalkers. Obviously, Corey did not want to ignore the most devout demographic.

But I am happy to report that So Close is better than that. Even though, it often sticks too closely to the ‘Hitman movie’ cookbook. You know, a regretful killer, a die hard cop. Two sides of the same coin stuff. Much of what unfolds could easily be misconstrued as a feminine version of John Woo’s The Killer. But those comparisons end when the film concentrates on Zhou Wen’s sister role. Her impressive portrayal as the impetuous, computer savvy sister serves as a counterpoint to Shu Qui’s relentless killer. Karen Mok is equally enthralling as the very butch forensics cop hot on their trail.

Unlike many other male-dominated action pics, all three female leads are well fleshed out characters. Cory Yuen seemed comfortable letting the women open up. Maybe that is the advantage of leading an estrogen-fueled production. There are many scenes that are clearly meant to be emotional. Some of those scenes work but some unfortunately do not. Most importantly, So Close seems to care as much about what’s going on in the characters’ lives and their motivations as it is in the employment of stunt doubles, setting up car chases, and unleashing fire power.

Hey, lets talk about the fire power, while we are at it. After establishing the level of reality that the film will fearlessly take on with the rather fanciful opening sequence, the film settles into a nice sustained level of mayhem. There are about three or four very large scale action set pieces, before the finale, that are quite thrilling, warranting several taps on the rewind/reverse button. The only thing not working for the action scenes is Shu Qui herself. As graceful as she appears, she fails to convince me of her character’s skills. When she throws a kick, she looks like a ballerina not Bruce Lee. When she points a gun, it might as well be a hair dryer because there doesn’t seem to be enough intensity behind it. These criticisms might be a little harsh, mind you, but she will ultimately be compared to some of the best actresses of the ‘Girls With Guns’ genre. Unfortunately, in those comparisons, she will come up pretty weak because of this. The other two actresses fair much better in this respect.

The grand finale is really something special. Featuring the blade work of none other than Yasuaki Kurata, this is a future fight classic, employing the best choreography I have seen in a long time. Makes me want to check out more of Kurata’s work. Ferocious, acrobatic, and intense, do not miss the end fight to this film. That is really all I can say about it without spoiling the fun.

Though The Transporter doesn’t support this theory, I think Corey Yuen has become more of a complete filmmaker, less prone to the excess of his cinematic past. Soon, he will no longer be known as the guy who choreographs Jet Li’s American films. Part of me would like to see him try something more psychological than physical next. Nonetheless, I am excited to see the next phase of his career.

Reefer’s Rating: 8/10

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

Painted Skin: The Resurrection Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

Posted on September 16, 2012 by JJ Bona
Painted Skin: The Resurrection Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

Painted Skin: The Resurrection Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

RELEASE DATE: November 13, 2012

Well Go USA presents the Blu-ray & DVD for Painted Skin: The Resurrection, directed by Wuershan of The Butcher, the Chef and the Swordsman fame. This 2012 Chinese action and fantasy film stars Chen Kun, Zhao Wei, Zhou Xun, Yang Mi, Feng Shaofeng, Fei Xiang and Chen Tingjia. Check out the trailer.

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

Silmido DVD (Pathfinder Home Entertainment)

Posted on September 14, 2012 by JJ Bona
Silmido DVD (Pathfinder Home Entertainment)

Silmido DVD (Pathfinder Home Entertainment)

RELEASE DATE: November 13, 2012

Pathfinder Home Entertainment presents the DVD for Silmido. Directed by Kang Woo-suk, Silmido is based on the 1968 true story of Unit 684 (a team of North Korean commandos infiltrated South Korea in a failed mission to assassinate President Park Chung-hee). Silmido was both a critical and financial success, and was the first film in South Korea to attract a box office audience of over 10 million viewers. Check out the trailer.

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

Gone in 60 Seconds (1974) Blu-ray & DVD (Anderson Merchandise)

Posted on September 11, 2012 by JJ Bona
Gone in 60 Seconds (1974) Blu-ray & DVD (Anderson Merchandise)

Gone in 60 Seconds (1974) Blu-ray & DVD (Anderson Merchandise)

RELEASE DATE: October 16, 2012

Anderson Merchandise presents the Blu-ray & DVD for 1974’s Gone in 60 Seconds. It defined the genre and became an instant classic among action movie fans. Buckle-up as master car thief Pace and Eleanor slams through 5 cities, cop after cop can’t touch them… wrecking over 93 cars in the spectacular 40 minute Chase-scene making their escape! Check out the trailer.

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

Fire With Fire Blu-ray & DVD (Lionsgate)

Posted on September 11, 2012 by JJ Bona
Fire With Fire Blu-ray & DVD (Lionsgate)

Fire With Fire Blu-ray & DVD (Lionsgate)

RELEASE DATE: November 6, 2012

Lionsgate presents the Blu-ray & DVD for Fire With Fire. A fireman takes an unexpected course of action when a man whom he’s been ordered to testify against, after being held up at a local convenience store, threatens him. Oh, boy. This new action movie stars Bruce Willis, Josh Duhamel, Rosario Dawson, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and Vincent D’Onofrio. Check out the trailer.

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

Blu-ray and DVD Releases for 9/11/12

Posted on September 9, 2012 by Z Ravas
Karate-Robo Zaborgar Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

Karate-Robo Zaborgar Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

Here are your Blu-ray and DVD releases for the week of 9/11/12:

ASIAN CINEMA

Karate-Robo Zaborgar (Blu-ray/DVD) – the folks at Sushi Typhoon resurrect a Japanese 70’s superhero TV show for this wild 2011 homage, on home formats from Well Go USA

Hospitalite (DVD) – this 2010 Japanese domestic comedy-drama examines the lives of a tight-knit family who run a printing shop in downtown Tokyo

Curse M (DVD) – the beautiful wife of a hospital head might just be a dangerous succubus in this 2012 Japanese erotic horror flick

Red Eye (DVD) – the 2005 Korean horror film set on a train, and not to be confused with the Wes Craven movie of the same name, receives a second printing as a Tokyo Shock Classic

The Black House (DVD) – an insurance investigator is called in to inspect a haunted house in this 1999 Japanese horror flick, now re-released as a Tokyo Shock Classic

The Suicide Song (DVD) – Ryuhei Matsuda of “Nightmare Detective” fame stars in this 2007 Japanese horror movie about a song that causes its listeners to commit suicide. Also re-released as a Tokyo Shock Classic

Female Teacher: Dirty Afternoon (DVD) – it’s Japanese exploitation fun when a young teacher is blackmailed

Nympho Diver: G-String Festival (DVD) – the Japanese pinku excess continues with this entry in the obscure genre of Girl Diver films

FOREIGN CINEMA

Where Do We Go Now? (Blu-ray/DVD) – religious tension in a small Lebanese town threatens to boil over in this 2012 Arabic-language film

Elles (Blu-ray/DVD) – acclaimed actress Juliet Binoche stars as a journalist investigating the live of two young prostitutes in this 2011 French film

We Have a Pope (DVD) – a newly appointed pope refuses his calling in this 2011 Italian-language film

MAINSTREAM

Six Bullets (DVD) – Jean-Claude Van Damme’s latest direct-to-video action movie arrives on DVD courtesy of Sony. In the 2012 film, Van Damme is a mercenary on the case of a missing child

Snow White and the Huntsman (Blu-ray/DVD) – this 2012 Hollywood film is a visually imaginative retelling of the Snow White tale starring Charlize Theron and Chris Hemsworth

Cleanskin (Blu-ray/DVD) – in this 2012 action film, Sean Bean (“Goldeneye”) stars as a secret service agent out to dismantle terrorist cells in London

For Greater Glory (Blu-ray/DVD) – Andy Garcia and Peter O’Toole star in this 2012 Western detailing the events of the Mexico’s Cristero War, which targeted Catholics during the 1920’s

Flatland (DVD) – now here’s a bizarre release. A 22-episode sci-fi TV series starring Dennis Hopper and Francoise Yip (“Rumble in the Bronx”), filmed in Hong Kong in 2002, is brought to DVD as an 84-minute film

Bad Karma (DVD) – Ray Liotta stars as a career criminal trying to go straight in this 2011 crime thriller

CULT

Beyond the Black Rainbow (Blu-ray/DVD) – the critically-acclaimed dystopic sci-fi debut of Panos Cosmatos, the son of “Rambo: First Blood II” and “Tombstone” director George P. Cosmatos

NEW TO BLU-RAY

The Ring (Blu-ray) – the one J-horror remake that’s arguably superior to the original. Director Gore Verbinski directs Noami Watts to great effect in this beyond-creepy 2002 film, now in hi-def

Titanic (Blu-ray) – well, okay. Does James Cameron’s 1997 film really need any introduction?

Killer Klowns From Outer Space (Blu-ray) – the demented 1988 cult horror film arrives in hi-def

Jeepers Creepers (Blu-ray) – the oft-overlooked 2001 monster movie sees a belated Blu-ray release

Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 (Blu-ray) – Tobe Hooper followed up his gritty, nihilistic 70’s horror classic with this over-the-top and cartoony 1986 take on the franchise. This underrated sequel arrives in hi-def

The Score (Blu-ray) – Edward Norton and Robert De Niro match wits in this 2001 crime caper, now in hi-def

Airplane! (Blu-ray) – the beloved 1980 disaster film spoof from director Jerry Zucker

The Firm (Blu-ray) – the successful 1993 John Grisham legal thriller starring Tom Cruise. Wanna place any bets that Tom has to run full bore at some point in the film?

RE-ISSUES

The Sapphire Collection (Blu-ray) – Braveheart, Gladiator, and Saving Private Ryan feature in this 3-film collection, conveniently priced at $34.27

Tim Burton: Collection (Blu-ray) – for only $41.99 you’ll receive: Pee Wee’s Big Adventure (1985) Beetlejuice (1988) Batman (1989) Batman Returns (1992) Mars Attacks! (1996) Corpse Bride (2005) Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)

Men of War/Bravo Two Zero (Blu-ray) – two action films, one starring Dolph Lundgren, the other starring Sean Bean, are paired together on Blu-ray

Russell Mulcahy’s Tale of the Mummy / Beneath Loch Ness (Blu-ray) – two creature features, one directed by Russell Mulcahy of “Highlander” fame, are paired on Blu-ray together by Miramax

Classic Charles Bronson (DVD) – 9 hours of early Charles Bronson films and TV shows, including “Cold Sweat” and “Man With the Camera,” are together in this set of Pop Flix

The Prophecy/The Prophecy II: God’s Army (Blu-ray) – you won’t want to mess with Christopher Walken’s heavenly angel in this horror series

Wes Craven Presents: They/Cursed (Blu-ray) – two latter day Wes Craven films are brought together on Blu

The Hole/Venom (Blu-ray) – more low-budget horror paired together for a budget price. At least “The Hole” stars Keira Knightly and Thora Birch

Darkness/Below (Blu-ray) – “Darkness” stars Anna Paquin while “Below” arrives from the director of “Pitch Black”

Dracula 2000/Dracula II: Ascension (Blu-ray) – Wes Craven produced these two attempts to revive the Dracula mythos for modern times

The Horror Pack Triple Feature (Blu-ray) – two remakes of Asian horror films – “The Ring” and “The Uninvited” – are packed with the American horror movie “Case 39”

The Crow 2: City of Angels / The Crow: Wicked Prayer (Blu-ray) – due to demand from somebody, I’m sure, the much-maligned “The Crow” sequels are together on Blu

Paranormal Activity Trilogy Gift Set (Blu-ray) – the popular film series is re-issued together on Blu-ray for fans

HORROR

The Loved Ones (DVD) – this Australian horror flick has been praised by internet critics since its 2009 release. North America finally gets the chance to experience the movie this week

Hammer House of Horror – The Complete Series (DVD) – the good folks at Synapse Films release this beloved 1980 horror television series, featuring appearances by the likes of Pierce Brosnan and Peter Cushing

Rosewood Lane (Blu-ray/DVD) – Rose McGowan and Ray Wise co-star in this 2011 horror film about a deadly paperboy, from the director of “Jeepers Creepers”

Entrance (DVD) – this 2012 psychological thriller follows a young woman’s descent into crippling paranoia

Dark Night of the Scarecrow (Deluxe Collector’s Edition) (DVD) – special features abound in the collector’s edition of this 1981 cult favorite horror flick

Vile (DVD) – a 2011 riff on “Saw”-style torture, featuring an appearance by Maynard James Keenan of the band Tool

In the Devil’s Garden (DVD) – this 1971 British horror film is billed as a UK riff on the giallo formula

The Devil Inside (Blu-ray) – the critically panned 2012 found footage horror film receives a Blu-ray release

Appropriate Adult (DVD) – a 2011 psychological thriller based on the true story of a serial killer and the social worker tasked with sitting in on his interrogations

Dracula vs. Frankenstein (DVD) – a 1971 clash of the monsters. Please note the Blu-ray will be releasing on September 25th

Where Evil Lives (DVD) – a 1991 Troma slasher movie

Chillers (DVD) – a low-budget 1987 horror anthology film in the “Creepshow” vein from Troma

Interested in any of these movies? If so, we hope that you’ll consider ordering from our affiliate to help support this site. Thank you!

Posted in News |

Outlaw Brothers DVD (Dragon Dynasty)

Posted on September 9, 2012 by JJ Bona
Outlaw Brothers DVD (Dragon Dynasty)

Outlaw Brothers DVD (Dragon Dynasty)

RELEASE DATE: October 30, 2012

Dragon Dynasty presents the DVD for 1990’s Outlaw Brothers, directed by – and starring – Frankie Chan (Legendary Amazons) with Mok Siu Cheung, Yukari Oshima and Michiko Nishiwaki. This action-packed film follows the exploits of two car thieves, and a butt-kicking female police officer who is on their trail. Check out the Hong Kong Legends trailer.

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

Chinese Odyssey Parts 1 & 2 DVD (Dragon Dynasty)

Posted on September 8, 2012 by JJ Bona

Chinese Odyssey 1 & 2 DVD (Dragon Dynasty)

Chinese Odyssey 1 & 2 DVD (Dragon Dynasty)

RELEASE DATE: October 9, 2012

Dragon Dynasty presents the DVD for A Chinese Odyssey 1 & 2. These pair of films star Stephen Chow, Karen Mok, Ng Man Tat, and Athena Chu. The first movie in the duology is A Chinese Odyssey Part One: Pandora’s Box and the second is A Chinese Odyssey Part Two: Cinderella. The films combine slapstick comedy, wuxia and a love story, and are loosely based on the Chinese classical novel Journey to the West. Check out some footage.

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

The Island Blu-ray & DVD (Shout! Factory)

Posted on September 8, 2012 by JJ Bona
The Island Blu-ray & DVD (Shout! Factory)

The Island Blu-ray & DVD (Shout! Factory)

RELEASE DATE: December 11th, 2012

Shout! Factory presents the Blu-ray & DVD for 1980’s The Island. Based on the novel by Jaws author Peter Benchley, The Island is a terrifying (and really gory) high-seas adventure. An inquisitive British reporter (Michael Caine) sets out to investigate a series of mysterious ocean disappearances in the Caribbean, where more than 600 boats have apparently vanished during the course of three years. Watch the trailer.

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

Ridley Scott to collaborate with ‘Hero’ director Zhang Yimou?

Posted on September 8, 2012 by Z Ravas
"Hero" Japanese Theatrical Poster

"Hero" Japanese Theatrical Poster

Chinese Films offers word that acclaimed Hollywood director Ridley Scott (Alien, Blade Runner) might be teaming up with Hero and House of Flying Daggers mastermind Zhang Yimou for a new film. The project is based off the Chinese opera Qin Shi Huang, which Zhang Yimou served as stage director on and Ridley saw performed in New York in 2006.

The opera itself was inspired by the 1996 film The First Emperor, which was initially banned in China but eventually re-released into theaters eight months later.

Ridley Scott’s latest film, Prometheus, just opened in China a week ago. It’s thought that Ridley would ask Zhang Yimou to serve as producer on the Qin Shi Huang film while Ridley himself would direct.

Western media outlets aren’t picking up the story quite yet, though, so it’s perhaps all a bit speculative at the moment.

Posted in News |

Death Valley Blu-ray & DVD (Shout! Factory)

Posted on September 8, 2012 by JJ Bona
Death Valley Blu-ray & DVD (Shout! Factory)

Death Valley Blu-ray & DVD (Shout! Factory)

RELEASE DATE: December 11, 2012

Shout! Factory presents the Blu-ray & DVD for 1982’s Death Valley. A divorced mother, her young son (Peter Billingsley) and her new boyfriend set out on a road trip through Death Valley and run afoul of a local serial killer. Think The Hills Have Eyes meets A Christmas Story. =D Watch the trailer.

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

Ready to chew bubblegum and kick ass? Carpenter’s ‘They Live’ on Special Edition Blu-ray and DVD! – Bonus Features revealed!

Posted on September 7, 2012 by JJ Bona
"They Live" Scream Factory™ DVD Cover

"They Live" Scream Factory™ DVD Cover

Cityonfire.com has received the following press release on July 30, 2012 from Shout! Factory: The truth is more than meets the eye. You’ve been listening to their speeches and watching them on TV. They influence our decisions without us knowing it. Think again and the choice is yours!

On November 6, 2012, Scream Factory™ presents John Carpenter’s politically-charged science fiction thriller They Live Collector’s Edition Blu-ray and DVD. Featuring anamorphic widescreen presentation of this cult classic movie, this special collector’s edition home entertainment release of They Live boasts a bounty of special bonus content, a collectible cover featuring newly rendered retro-style artwork, a reversible wrap with original theatrical key art and much more! They Live Collector’s Edition Blu-ray has a suggested retail price of $29.93 and $16.50 for the DVD. Fans and collector’s can pre-order now at ShoutFactory.com and Amazon.com.

*Production now underway for extensive and insightful bonus features that include all-new interviews, an audio commentary and archival material. Shout! Factory will announce in-depth bonus features and additional news in next couple months.

Horror master John Carpenter (Halloween, The Thing) directs this heart-pounding thriller in which aliens are systematically gaining control of the Earth by masquerading as humans and lulling the public into submission. Humanity’s last chance lies with a lone drifter who stumbles upon a harrowing discovery — a unique pair of sunglasses that reveals the terrifying and deadly truth.

Avid John Carpenter fans, movie enthusiasts and collectors please take note: Order this collector’s edition Blu-ray or DVD directly from ShoutFactory.com and receive an exclusive 18”x24” poster featuring the newly commissioned artwork! Less than 500 have been made, so these are only available while supplies last.

Update: EXTENSIVE BONUS FEATURES:

– Audio Commentary with Writer/Director John Carpenter and Actor Roddy Piper
– Independent Thoughts – An interview with Writer/Director John Carpenter
– Man vs. Aliens – An interview with Actor Keith David
– Woman of Mystery – An interview with Actress Meg Foster
– Watch, Look, Listen: The Sights & Sounds of “They Live”
– 2012 Cast Reunion Q&A with Roddy Piper, Keith David, and Meg Foster.
– Original EPK: The Making of “They Live”
– Never-Before-Seen Footage from the Commercials created for the film.
– Original Theatrical Trailer
– TV Spots & Still Gallery

Posted in News |

White Vengeance (2011) Review

Posted on September 7, 2012 by Z Ravas
""White Vengeance" International Theatrical Poster

“White Vengeance” International Theatrical Poster

Director: Daniel Lee
Cast: Leon Lai Ming, Zhang Han Yu, Anthony Wong Chau Sang, Jordan Chan Siu Chun, Crystal Liu Yi Fei, Fang Shao Feng, Andy On Chi Kit, Jia Qing, Wu Ma, Chen Kuan Tai, Chan Chi Fai, Ding Hai Feng, Du Yiheng, Xu Xiang Dong
Running Time: 135 min.

By HKFanatic

Director Daniel Lee has long seemed to struggle to find his identity as a filmmaker in the wake of his breakout 1996 hit “Black Mask.” After that movie, he produced the tournament fight flick “Star Runner” (AKA “The Kumite”) and the English/Cantonese crossover of “Dragon Squad,” both of which received lukewarm reviews. Since then he’s found a niche making historical epics like “Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon” and “14 Blades,” but something feels missing.

His latest movie, “White Vengeance,” follows in the footsteps of films like “Hero” and “Red Cliff” by mixing real-life figures with fantastical action scenes, but it doesn’t come anywhere close to the heights of those genre standouts. Despite decent performances from familiar Hong Kong faces like Leon Lai and Anthony Wong, “White Vengeance” suffers from sluggish pacing and poor action directing. All of this makes me wonder if the visually kinetic and comic book-like flair of “Black Mask” wasn’t the result of producer Tsui Hark playing a more ‘hands on’ role.

Dusty and drab, “White Vengeance” feels bogged down by its own self-importance. The story zeroes in on the events of the Hongmen Banquet, a major event in Chinese history, and then tries to examine the conflict from all sides. In a time of uncertainty, two great military men are vying for the position of Emperor – but they couldn’t be more different. Leon Lai’s General strives for equality and fairness for the people, while Shaofeng Feng’s character seems more driven by personal interests. First impressions aren’t always the most accurate, however, and as they say ‘absolutely power corrupts absolutely.’ The viewer will have their perception of these characters flipped more than once over the course of the film’s 135 minute runtime.

“White Vengeance” features solid acting turns from regulars like Jordan Chan and Andy On, but it’s Hanyu Zhang and Anthony Wong that steal the show as two competing military strategists. Their conflict is illustrated visually halfway through the film with an intense game of chess that actually sees Zhang coughing up blood(!) as he plays. Sure, a game of chess fought with Chi-like powers is a bit over the top – but it provides a much needed boost of energy during the film’s lagging middle portion.

The real issue here is that audiences, even on this side of the globe, are becoming overly familiar with the Chinese historical genre – and “White Vengeance” doesn’t bring anything particularly new to the table. The art of military strategy was already depicted wonderfully in movies like “Red Cliff” and “The Lost Bladesmen,” which benefitted from dazzling action choreography to boot. Daniel Lee must have had difficulty getting enough camera coverage for the battle sequences, as he instead relies on a familiar hail of computer-generated arrows to sell the scale of the conflicts. After you’ve seen the best the genre has to offer, it’s hard to go back to shakycam and limp fight scenes in a movie like “White Vengeance.”

Devout followers of Chinese history or the actors involved should find plenty to enjoy in “White Vengeance.” But if you’re starting to feel you’ve seen everything this genre has to offer, “White Vengeance” won’t change your mind. Here’s hoping that Daniel Lee stops looking to the history books for inspiration and is able to channel the manic energy and flair of “Black Mask” into his next project.

HKFanatic’s Rating: 5.5/10

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