Nicholas Tse and Andy Lau now shooting Derek Kwok’s ‘Raging Fire’ follow-up ‘The Unleashed Blaze’

"Raging Havoc" Teaser Poster

“Raging Havoc” Teaser Poster

A thematic sequel to Benny Chan’s 2021 actioner Raging Fire is currently in production from director Derek Kwok, who is perhaps best known for helming 2014’s As the Light Goes Out, 2015’s Full Strike, and the recent 2021 film, Schemes in Antiques.

The follow-up, titled The Unleashed Blaze (aka Raging Havoc), is headlined by Nicholas Tse (The Bullet Vanishes), who starred in the original Raging Fire (opposite Donnie Yen). This time around, Hong Kong heavy Andy Lau (White Storm 2: The Drug Lords) fills the space previously filled by Yen. Ray Liu (Raging Fire, Operation Bangkok) also returns, not to mention the addition of rising star Xie Miao (My Father is a Hero, Eye for an Eye: The Blind Swordsman, Ip Man: The Awakening).

The original Continue reading

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Henry Cavill to re-immortalize ‘Highlander’ for ‘John Wick’ director Chad Stahelski

"Highlander" Japanese Theatrical Poster

“Highlander” Japanese Theatrical Poster

Looks like Chad Stahelski, 1/2 of the directing duo responsible for 2014’s John Wick, is stepping up to the plate for Lionsgate’s reboot/remake of the action-fantasy film, Highlander – and the Man of Steel himself, Henry Cavill, will lead the film.

The new movie will be based on the 1986 original, which starred Christopher Lambert, Sean Connery and Clancy Brown as immortal beings, hunting down one another and collecting more power. The time-jumping film — with its “There can be only one” tagline — spawned four sequels and three TV series including the popular USA series starring Adrian Paul. Queen memorably provided the soundtrack for the original movie. (via Deadline).

“Such great themes of immortality, love, and identity are all wrapped up in such colorful mythology. I can’t think of a better property that gives Continue reading

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The Fragrance of Luxury: Why Is Perfume So Expensive?

The Fragrance of Luxury: Why Is Perfume So Expensive?

Its ethereal nature, captured in an ornate bottle, tells a story that’s both intimate and world-spanning, reflecting histories, cultures, and personal tales. But ever so often, as you glance at the price tag of your favorite fragrance, you might wonder, why is it so costly?

The Art of Perfumery

When it comes to crafting perfumes, it’s more than just mixing scents; it’s an art form. Imagine for a moment, a maestro guiding a symphony. Similarly, seasoned noses work to combine elements, ensuring that each note unfolds at just the right moment, creating a harmonious blend. It’s a dance of olfactory delight, precision, and depth. An example of such intricacy in scent crafting is often seen in sought-after fragrances like love by kilian don’t be shy dupe. Beyond the skill, the selection of ingredients plays a pivotal role. Many of these ingredients are not only rare but sourced from the farthest corners of the Earth, adding to the cost.

Ingredient Costs

Just as a gourmet dish is prized for its authentic ingredients, the price of perfume is often reflective of its components. Many perfumes contain ingredients like Oud, harvested from the rare Aquilaria tree, or Ambergris, a unique substance regurgitated by sperm whales. These materials are rare, difficult to source, and hence, quite expensive. Moreover, the quality of these ingredients significantly affects the final product. Using a higher quality ingredient ensures a scent that is richer, lasts longer, and unfolds beautifully on the skin.

Perfume Production Process

Behind every bottle of perfume is a meticulous process, often spanning years. From initial ideation to the final product, making a perfume is labor-intensive. Expert perfumers, often referred to as ‘noses’ for their extraordinary olfactory senses, work diligently. These skilled artisans often spend years training, and their expertise is essential to craft the perfect scent, which, in turn, justifies the high prices attached to these fragrances.

Brand Prestige

Branding plays a significant role in many luxury items, and perfume is no exception. Houses like Chanel, Dior, or Tom Ford have spent decades, if not longer, building their reputation. This prestige translates to trust in quality, longevity, and a unique scent profile. Such an established reputation and the desire to own a piece of this luxury contribute to the high price point.

Packaging and Presentation

Lifting the lid off a perfume box reveals more than just a bottle; it’s an experience. The intricate designs, heavy glass, and often handcrafted details elevate the perfume bottle to a piece of art. Packaging often mirrors the essence of the fragrance inside, and its costs are undeniably woven into the total price.

Marketing and Advertising

The world of luxury perfume isn’t just about the scent. It’s a narrative, portrayed through grand advertisements, celebrity endorsements, and cinematic campaigns. The costs associated with these promotional activities, which aim to entice and captivate, form a significant chunk of the perfume’s price.

Limited Editions and Exclusivity

Sometimes, the allure of a perfume is in its rarity. Limited edition releases or scents available only at particular locations feed into the human desire for exclusivity. Owning something scarce often comes with a heftier price tag, which many are willing to pay.

Research and Development

Behind every iconic scent is an exhaustive phase of research and development. Perfumeries invest in exploring unique scent combinations, undergoing multiple iterations. Each trial and refinement drives up the cost, but it ensures a distinct and memorable fragrance.

Regulation and Quality Control

Perfumes undergo rigorous quality control standards. Every meticulous step taken ensures that each bottle that reaches the consumer is not only perfect in scent but also adheres to safety standards. From ingredient sourcing to the final formulation, consistency across batches is imperative. The intricate dance of complying with international regulations, combined with the dedication to maintaining consistent high-quality throughout production stages, undeniably amplifies the production costs.

Historical Significance

Tracing back through the annals of history, perfume has always stood out as a shimmering symbol of luxury and affluence. From the intoxicating courts of Cleopatra to the opulent palaces of Europe, fragrances have signified more than just scent; they represented status, power, and an undeniable allure. This rich and evocative historical context not only paints a vivid picture but also enriches the narrative of modern perfumery, firmly reaffirming its esteemed position as a treasured luxury item.

Conclusion

In the delicate ballet of luxury perfumes, a multitude of factors dance together, justifying the price tag. Whether it’s the craftsmanship of expert noses, the pursuit of rare ingredients, the tale of branding, or the allure of exclusivity, each element contributes. As you mist yourself with your chosen fragrance, remember you’re not just wearing a scent; you’re wearing history, art, and a testament to luxury.

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Samurai Wolf & Samurai Wolf II | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Samurai Wolf & Samurai Wolf II | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Samurai Wolf & Samurai Wolf II | Blu-ray (Eureka)

RELEASE DATE: January 29, 2024

On January 29, 2024, Eureka is releasing the Blu-ray for Samurai Wolf and Samurai Wolf II, a duo of chanbara masterpieces from one of the genre’s greatest directors, Hideo Gosha!

Official details:

Out of a desire to make what he felt was a truly no-holds-barred sword-fighting film, Gosha took inspiration from the samurai films of Akira Kurosawa as well as the spaghetti Western sub-genre they had inspired. Working with a low-budget to free himself from the restrictive oversight of his producers, the result was Samurai Wolf and Samurai Wolf II, the story of a charismatic ronin named Kiba (played by Isao Natsuyagi).

In the first film, Kiba wanders into a small town and ends up ensnared in a local conflict that’s more than meets the eye, and in Samurai Wolf II Kiba gets Continue reading

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

Deal on Fire! Train to Busan & Peninsula | Blu-ray | Only $12.99 – Expires soon!

Train to Busan & Peninsula | Blu-ray (Well Go USA)

Train to Busan & Peninsula | Blu-ray (Well Go USA)

Today’s Deal on Fire is for a 2-movie Blu-ray collection that includes 2016’s Train to Busan and its 2020 follow up, PeninsulaBoth films captivated audiences worldwide, thanks to acclaimed South Korean director, Yeon Sang-Ho (Jung_E).

Train to Busan follows a group of terrified passengers fighting their way through a countrywide viral outbreak, trapped on a suspicion-filled, blood-drenched bullet train ride to the Safe Zone…which may or may not still be there.

Train to Busan stars Gong Yoo (The Suspect), Ma Dong-Seok (Veteran), Jung Yu-Mi  (A Bittersweet Life), Choi Woo-Sik (Big Match), Kim Soo-Ahn (The Net) and Ahn So-Hee (Hellcats).

Four years after Continue reading

Posted in Deals on Fire!, News |

Return of the 18 Bronzemen, The (1976) Review

"The Return of the 18 Bronzemen" Theatrical Poster

“The Return of the 18 Bronzemen” Theatrical Poster

Director: Joseph Kuo
Cast: Carter Wong, Polly Shang-Kuan, Tien Peng, Ko Yu-Min, Yuen Sam, Wong Fei Lung, Lau Lap Cho, O Yau Man, Chiu Ting, Shaw Luo Hui, Chen Chiu
Running Time: 96 min.

By Paul Bramhall

Following the success of the previous years 18 Bronzemen, director Joseph Kuo realised that he still had a few tubs of bronze paint leftover, so got the gang back together for a sequel, Return of the 18 Bronzemen, that made its debut less than 8 months later. The trio of Carter Wong, Polly Shang-Kuan, and Tien Peng all return, as does Ko Yu-Min as the shaolin abbot. However Yu-Min is the only actor reprising his role from the original, with everyone else stepping into different parts. The approach makes sense when considering how 18 Bronzemen ended (and indeed the concept as a whole – why would anyone want to go through the bronzemen test twice!?), so this time around Carter Wong takes centre stage as the villainous 4th son (and master of Muslim kung-fu!) of the recently deceased emperor, who through some will altering shenanigans quickly ascends himself to the emperor’s throne.

While the original shared top billing between the Wong, Shang-Kuan, and Peng, here it’s very much the Carter Wong show. Shang-Kuan is severely underused, although whenever she is onscreen it’s a delight, and Peng clocks in little more than a cameo as the shaolin trained boyfriend of a girl Wong has his eye on. The decision is an understandable one though, exuding charisma as the constantly seething emperor, Wong delivers a performance full of intense stares Continue reading

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

Beach of the War Gods (1973) Review

"Beach of the War Gods" Theatrical Poster

“Beach of the War Gods” Theatrical Poster

Director: Jimmy Wang Yu
Cast: Jimmy Wang Yu, Lung Fei, Tin Yau, Sit Hon, Shan Mao, Choi Wang, Kwan Hung, Cheung Yee Kwai, Su Chen Ping, Hsieh Hsing, Cho Kin, Blacky Ko Sau Leung, Jack Long Sai Ga, Lui Jun, Man Man, O Yau Man
Running Time: 97 min.

By Will McGuire

There’s a delightful contradiction between form and content at the heart of Beach of the War Gods: formally the film stands as a love letter to the action cinema of Japan, particularly the work of Akira Kurosawa but all of that love is deployed in a story that is built on the pain and shame of the Japanese occupation during World War 2. It’s as if someone wrote a play in a perfect pastiche of Shakespeare’s blank verse about the Easter Rising.

There’s been a recent reappraisal of Jimmy Wang Yu in the time since I’ve been learning about Eastern cinema. When I began collecting, it was en vogue to highlight his shortcomings and personal warts and praise was handed out sparingly; as if there were a danger should he get too much. Thankfully, things seemed to have swung back in the other direction, and new attention is being paid to his merits, not just as a performer, but as a filmmaker. That’s why it’s so important Continue reading

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

Eureka’s Blu-ray for Stephen Chow’s 1994 James Bond spoof ‘From Beijing With Love’ now shipping

From Beijing With Love | Blu-ray (Eureka)

From Beijing With Love | Blu-ray (Eureka)

On October 23, 2023, Eureka is releasing the Blu-ray (Region B) for 1994’s From Beijing With Love. Hong Kong’s King of Comedy Stephen Chow (Shaolin Soccer, Kung Fu Hustle) directs and stars in this hilarious spoof of the James Bond franchise.

Martini swilling butcher (and disgraced former spy) Ling Ling Chat is dispatched to recover a stolen dinosaur skull from a golden-gun wielding supervillain. Equipped with the latest gadgets, our hero dons his tuxedo and swaggers into a world of danger, beautiful women, and metal mouthed assassins. Sound familiar?

Co-stars include Anita Yuen (Handsome Siblings), Law Kar Ying (Shaolin Soccer), Pauline Chan Bo Lin (Hong Kong Showgirls), Joe Cheng Continue reading

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Jade Raksha, The (1968) Review

"The Jade Raksha" Theatrical Poster

“The Jade Raksha” Theatrical Poster

Director: Ho Meng-Hua
Cast: Cheng Pei-pei, Tang Ching, Wong Ching Wan, Ku Feng, Yeung Chi Hing, Fan Mei Sheng
Running Time: 91 min.

By Will McGuire

In the midst of the current avalanche of Shaw Brothers titles getting top-shelf physical releases in America, it’s only natural that fans will look for hidden gems in the enormous Shaw catalog. As publishers get deeper into the backlog, and more obscure films begin to compete for your hard-earned dollar, fans want to know where the real classics are, and which titles are more fantastic than formulaic.

The Jade Raksha is what you’re looking for.

This 1968 wuxia film was totally unknown to me just a few months ago, but the beautiful photography, strong central performances from Cheng Pei-pei (Come Drink With Me), Tang Ching (Bat Without Wings) and Ku Feng (The Avenging Eagle), along with a healthy dose of swordplay and surreal violence mark this along with The One-Armed Swordsman as one of the gems of early Shaw wuxia.

The story begins conventionally before introducing a number of interesting complications to the typical formula: Cheng plays the Jade Raksha, a beautiful swordswoman traveling as a man and seeking vengeance for her dead family. Overcome with rage, she’s beheading any man with the surname Yan because she doesn’t know which member of the family betrayed her clan. Tang Ching plays a fellow swordsman out for vengeance named Xu Ying Hao Continue reading

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

Jackie Chan’s latest martial arts actioner ‘Ride On’ hits Blu-ray, DVD and Digital from Well Go USA on October 24

Ride On | Blu-ray (Well Go USA)

Ride On | Blu-ray (Well Go USA)

Jackie Chan teams up with writer/director Larry Yang (Another Shot) for the light-hearted action film titled Ride On (read our review), which was released on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital on October 24, 2023 from Well Go USA.

After two debt collectors attempt to seize a stunt horse belonging to washed-up stuntman Luo (Jackie Chan), video of the ensuing confrontation―and the dynamic duo’s narrow acrobatic escape―goes viral on social media. Furious, humiliated and out for revenge, the vicious debt collectors return, so Luo and his horse Red Hare engage in several hilarious action-packed stunts and antics that outdo the most daring acts from their glory days to outmaneuver and outsmart the bad guys.

The film also stars Continue reading

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Chin Siu-Ho and Richard Ng battle zombies in Bayview Films’ Blu-ray for ‘Bio Raiders’ arriving in October

Bio Raiders | Blu-ray (Bayview Films)

Bio Raiders | Blu-ray (Bayview Films)

On October 17 2023, Bayview Films and Orchid Tree Media is releasing the Blu-ray for Bio Raiders, a 2017 horror-actioner that marks the directorial debut of actor-turned-director, Tommy Leung Ka-Ming (The Best Plan Is No Plan).

The film stars Chin Siu-Ho (The Boxer from the Temple, Hand Rolled Cigarette), Richard Ng (Money Crazy, Private Eyes), Billy Lau Nam-Kwong (Inspector Wears Skirts IV, Big Brother) and Eddy Law Tin-Chi (Wong Fei Hung – Master of Kung Fu, The Grand Grandmaster).

When a great herbalist cures his daughter of a deadly disease, he excludes a missing flower that allows her new body to produce blood, turning her into a zombie. A follower of the herbalist uncovers the terrible truth, trying to fix the problem while Continue reading

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Martial arts legend Chuck Norris teams up with Vanilla ice and Sophie Monk in the action comedy ‘Zombie Plane’

"Slaughter in San Francisco" Theatrical Poster

“Slaughter in San Francisco” Theatrical Poster

Martial arts legend Chuck Norris (Code of Silence, Slaughter in San Francisco) is teaming up with Vanilla Ice (Cool as Ice) and Sophie Monk (Click) in Zombie Plane, an upcoming Australian production from Radioactive and Entertainment Squad.

Directed by Lav Bodnaruk and Michael Mier, Zombie Plane centers on a secret government organization that recruits celebrities to be undercover agents, who together must save humanity from an imminent zombie attack. Norris, Ice and Monk play themselves (actually, Norris plays Commander Chuck Norris, who mentored and trained Ice into becoming a deadly secret agent), but the feature is reportedly full of of celebrity cameos, with a ’90s pop soundtrack including tracks by Ice himself (via THR).

This will be Norris’ first acting gig since appearing in a 2020 episode of the Hawaii Five-0 series, and Continue reading

Posted in News |

Unveiling the Secrets: CSGORadar’s Methodology Behind Rating CSGO Gambling Sites

Navigating the CSGO Gambling Scene

Welcome, fellow gamers and thrill-seekers! In the bustling world of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), the adrenaline rush doesn’t stop at the battleground. With the rise of CS:GO gambling sites, the stakes are higher, the excitement is palpable, and choices are aplenty. At the heart of this digital casino lies CSGORadar, your trusty guide in the labyrinth of CS:GO gambling platforms.

The Essence of Transparency: Our Approach to Ratings

At CSGORadar, transparency isn’t just a buzzword; it’s our guiding principle. We believe every gamer deserves a fair chance at making informed choices. Our rating methodology is a blend of meticulous analysis, user feedback, and a dash of gaming intuition. The process starts with an in-depth exploration of the site’s features, from the variety of games offered to the usability of the interface. We engage in hands-on experiences to feel the pulse of each platform.

Breaking Down the Criteria: What We Look For

Game Variety and Quality  

CS:GO is a diverse world, and so should be its gambling sites. We scrutinize the variety and quality of games offered. Whether you’re into classic roulette, high-stakes jackpot games, or strategic card battles, we ensure the platform caters to all tastes. A robust game selection is a testament to a site’s commitment to keeping its users engaged.

Security and Fairness 

Security is non-negotiable in the digital gaming realm. Our radar is fine-tuned to spot sites with state-of-the-art encryption, protecting your data like a virtual fortress. Beyond that, we delve deep into the algorithms governing games, ensuring fairness is not just a promise but a reality. After all, every spin should be a roll of the dice, not a gamble with your trust.

User Experience 

User experience is the heartbeat of any online platform. We assess the site’s navigation, responsiveness, and overall design. A user-friendly interface is the gateway to a seamless gaming experience. From swift deposits to hassle-free withdrawals, we test every nook and cranny to ensure you enjoy every moment spent on the platform.

Going Beyond the Surface: The Importance of Reputation

Community Feedback

No one knows a platform better than its users. We actively seek out and analyze community feedback. The pulse of the players is the heartbeat of our reviews. By tapping into the collective experiences of the gaming community, we can paint a comprehensive picture of a site’s reputation.

Trustworthiness and Track Record 

Trust is earned over time, and we don’t take that lightly. We dig into the track record of each gambling site, exploring its history and evolution. A trustworthy platform isn’t just born; it’s built through consistent and reliable service. Our radar ensures that you’re placing your bets in a zone of trust.

The Human Element: Hands-On Testing and Evaluation

Putting It to the Test 

Numbers and statistics only tell part of the story. We go beyond the quantitative data, infusing our reviews with the human touch. Our team of dedicated gamers immerses themselves in the gaming experience, testing features, probing customer support, and living the virtual thrill. This hands-on approach ensures our reviews are more than just scores – they’re authentic narratives of the gaming journey.

Navigating the Waves: Trends and Updates

Adapting to Trends 

The CS:GO gambling scene is dynamic, with trends ebbing and flowing like a virtual tide. Our radar is finely tuned to these shifts, keeping you ahead of the curve. From emerging game modes to innovative features, we keep our finger on the pulse to provide you with the freshest insights.

Regular Updates 

Gaming platforms evolve, and so do our reviews. We believe in the power of timely information. Our commitment to regular updates ensures that you’re never left in the dark about the latest in the CS:GO gambling universe. What’s hot today might not be tomorrow, and our updates reflect this ever-changing landscape.

The Verdict: Helping You Make Informed Choices

Summing It Up 

In the end, our mission at CSGORadar is simple: empower you to make informed choices in the vast world of CS:GO gambling. Our methodology isn’t just a set of rules; it’s a commitment to excellence, transparency, and the thrill of the game. So, the next time you’re ready to roll the dice or spin the wheel, let csgobook.com be your guide.

Stay Connected: Join the Conversation

Engage With Us 

The gaming community is a diverse and vibrant space, and we want to hear from you! Share your experiences, insights, and suggestions. Together, we can create a gaming landscape that’s fair, exciting, and, above all, enjoyable. Connect with us on social media, join the conversation, and let’s keep the thrill alive.

Your Adventure Awaits

CSGORadar isn’t just a rating system; it’s your compass in the exhilarating world of CS:GO gambling. Armed with our transparent methodology, dive into the gaming universe with confidence. Remember, every bet is a new adventure, and CSGORadar is here to ensure it’s one worth remembering. Happy gaming!

Posted in News |

Boudica: Queen of War (2023) Review

“Boudica: Queen of War” Theatrical Poster

“Boudica: Queen of War” Theatrical Poster

Director: Jesse V. Johnson
Cast: Olga Kurylenko, Clive Standen, Peter Franzén, Lucy Martin, Nick Moran, James Faulkner
Running Time: 101 min.

By Henry McKeand

One thing you could never call Jesse Johnson is complacent. Just a few months ago, his 21st-century western, One Ranger, was released. Now, he’s delivering Boudica: Queen of War, a film that swaps out Johnson’s typical pulpy crime narratives for a blood-soaked take on the story of Boudica, a legendary British queen who waged war on her Roman oppressors in AD 60. 

It’s a far cry from the modern prisons and back alleyways that DTV action fans are most used to seeing, but the transition makes sense if you’ve been following Johnson’s recent filmography. After all, 2021’s Hell Hath No Fury transposed his brand of DTV action to a WWII potboiler about a woman fighting against the Nazis. Johnson seems committed to trying out as many sub-genres as possible, and it’s hard to deny that he’s evolving as an artist. 

Normally, I wouldn’t be too excited about a DTV sword-and-sandal flick (very few performers look “convincing” in Roman armor, and ex-UFC fighters are no different). It’s a testament to Johnson’s ability, then, that Boudica is not merely watchable—it’s a legitimately Continue reading

Posted in All, News, Other Movies, Reviews | Tagged , |

Deal on Fire! Ip Man: Kung Fu Master | Blu-ray | Only $7.99 – Expires soon!

Ip Man: Kung Fu Master | Blu-ray (Magnet)

Ip Man: Kung Fu Master | Blu-ray (Magnet)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for Ip Man: Kung Fu Master. This version of the Ip Man story stars Dennis To (Zombie 108), who portrays the Wing Chun grandmaster for a third time, following 2010’s The Legend is Born – Ip Man and 2018’s Kung Fu Big League.

Ip Man: Kung Fu Master harks back to Ip’s early days before the Communist Revolution in 1949. Ip, portrayed by Dennis To for the third time as the martial artist who famously tutored Bruce Lee, was then a police captain who was framed for the murder of a ruthless but honorable mobster, and targeted for vengeance by his dangerous daughter. Forced to quit the force, Ip soon also has to contend with the arrival of the Japanese army in Guangzhou.

Directed by Liming Li (who is also helmed Young Ip Man: Crisis Time), the film also stars Tong Xiaohu (Young Ip Man: Crisis Time), Yuan Li Ruoxin (The Cage of Time), Chang Qinyuan (Those Flowers), Zhao Xioguang (Eternal Wave), Ren Yu Continue reading

Posted in Deals on Fire!, News |