A Family (2020) Review

"A Family" Theatrical Poster

“A Family” Theatrical Poster

AKA: Yakuza and the Family
Director: Michihito Fujii
Cast: Go Ayano, Hiroshi Tachi, Machiko Ono, Yukiya Kitamura, Hayato Ichihara, Hayato Isomura, Shun Sugata, Suon Kan, Ryutaro Ninomiya, Taro Suruga
Running Time: 135 min.

By Henry McKeand

“Lately, I’m getting the feeling that I came in at the end. The best is over.”

It’s been nearly twenty-five years since Tony Soprano, perhaps America’s last real mafia icon, said these words in the pilot episode of The Sopranos. For at least three decades, crime films (or at least their protagonists) have bemoaned the fact that being a mobster isn’t what it used to be, but that hasn’t done anything to control audiences’ appetite for underworld stories. This puts crime filmmakers in a tough position: they can either look back to the mid-20th-century, when organized crime was at the height of its powers, or try to tell a topical crime story that reckons with the decline of traditional gangster subcultures.

Japan cinema has been dealing with this dilemma for years. Cultural changes and legal crackdowns have led to decreasing numbers of Japanese Yakuza, who have been staples of cinematic gangsterdom since the 70s. Some films, such as Takeshi Kitano’s Outrage trilogy, have tackled this steady fall. Sure, Kitano served up the requisite bloodshed and backstabbing, but his Yakuza characters, with their severed pinkies and feudal mindsets, seemed out of place in the modern Continue reading

Posted in All, Japanese, News, Reviews |

The Brave Archer Collection | Blu-ray (Shout!)

The Brave Archer Collection | Blu-ray (Shout!)

The Brave Archer Collection | Blu-ray (Shout!)

RELEASE DATE: April 18, 2023

On April 18, 2023, Shout! Factory is releasing a 5-disc Blu-ray (Region A) collection for The Brave Archer Collection, which will includes The Brave Archer, The Brave Archer 2, The Brave Archer 3, The Brave Archer and His Mate and Little Dragon Maiden.

Officie details:

Adapted from The Legend Of The Condor Heroes, the wuxia novel by Jin Yong, this phantasmagorical martial arts saga – The Brave Archer Trilogy – stars Alexander Fu Sheng. In addition to the celebrated original trio of beloved films, this set also includes the two unofficial sequels: The Brave Archer and His Mate which also stars Alexander Fu Sheng, and Little Dragon Maiden which stars Leslie Cheung Continue reading

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

Heart of Dragon | Blu-ray (Arrow)

Heart of Dragon | Blu-ray (Arrow)

Heart of Dragon | Blu-ray (Arrow)

RELEASE DATE: April 11, 2023

On April 11, 2023, Arrow Video is releasing a Blu-ray (Region A) for Sammo Hung’s 1985 action-drama, Heart of the Dragon (aka First Mission). In the film, Jackie Chan plays a cop who gives up his dream of being a sailor to take care of his mentally challenged brother, played by Hung.

Note: An alternative slipcase, featuring original artwork, will be available exclusively through Arrow’s official website.

The film also stars Emily Chu (Millionaire’s Express), Lam Ching Ying (Mr. Vampire), Meng Hoi (The Blonde Fury), Peter Chan (Hocus Pocus), Yuen Wah (Eastern Condors), Chin Kar Lok (Project A), Melvin Wong (Twinkle Twinkle Lucky Stars), James Tien (The Tattooed Dragon).

You can also currently Continue reading

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

Returned Single-Legged Man | aka The Korean Connection (1974) Review

"Returned Single-Legged Man" Theatrical Poster

“Returned Single-Legged Man” Theatrical Poster

AKA: The Korean Connection
Director: Lee Doo-yong
Cast: Han Yong-cheol, Kwan Yung-moon, Jeong Sonyeo, Lee So-yeong, Kim Mun-ju, Nam Chung-il, Bae Su-chun, Kwon Il-soo, Cho Chun, Elton Chong, Hwang Jang Lee, Nam Chung-il, Lim Hae-lim, Kim Ki-bum
Running Time: 88 min.

By Paul Bramhall

Being a fan of Korea’s martial arts output, which spanned from the 1960’s through to the 1990’s, has never been a particularly rewarding endeavour. Want to check out one of the titles from the 90’s? The only option available is to hunt down a rare domestic VHS release that definitely won’t come with any English subtitles (not to mention sourcing a VHS player!). Curious to see what the 70’s and 80’s had to offer? Chances are you’ll end up watching a horribly re-edited, chopped up, and dubbed into a completely different story atrocity that Godfrey Ho purchased the international distribution rights to, and changed to fit what he believes appealed to western audiences at the time. How about the 60’s? Forget about it, if you didn’t see it in a Korean cinema at the time of its release, chances are you never will. 

One such title from the 70’s that I had the opportunity to check out many years ago was The Korean Connection. Released on DVD in the U.S. by Pathfinder Entertainment in 2003, it was such a dark (literally, not plot wise) incomprehensible mess that I felt sure it mustn’t have been the original version. In many ways, I probably have that DVD to thank for starting my journey to uncover the truth behind much of Korea’s so-called kung-fu flicks available in the west. It turned out its title wasn’t The Korean Connection at all, with its real one being the grammatically challenged Returned Single-Legged Man. A 1974 production, the Pathfinder DVD was missing 10 minutes Continue reading

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

Deal on Fire! Fist of Legend & Tai Chi Master | Blu-ray | Only $25.49 – Expires soon!

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for Ronin Flix’ 2-Disc Jet Li Double Feature that includes two Yuen Woo Ping-choreographed martial arts classics: 1994’s Fist of Legend and 1993’s Tai Chi MasterMasters for both films have been cleaned, and stabilization issues in previous releases have been fixed. The films will be available in a double feature set, as well as standalone releases.

When Chen Zhen (Li) discovers that his martial arts teacher has been murdered, he swears to avenge his death! Fist of Legend is a modern day remake of Bruce Lee’s 1972 film, Fist of Fury. It also stars Chin Siu Ho (The Blonde Fury), Yasuaki Kurata (Eastern Condors) and Billy Chow (Tai Chi II).

Two friends (Jet Li and Chin Siu Ho), ex Shaolin monks, part ways as they brush with the ongoing rebellion against the government. The ambitious one rises up to be a powerful military commander, while his betrayed friend resorts to learn the calm ways of Tai Chi. Also known as Twin Dragons, Yuen Woo Ping’s Tai Chi Master also stars Continue reading

Posted in Deals on Fire!, News |

What are the top 5 most popular oriental style slot machines in 2023?

With gambling fast becoming one of the most popular forms of entertainment, it’s no wonder that there are more casinos available online than ever before. And with more online casinos available than ever before, there are more slots. This is great news for established players, who have thousands of slots and casino games to choose from at their favourite sites. For new players, it’s still great news, but it can feel overwhelming to know which slots are the best, and which to avoid.

Some of the most popular online slots are those that have a distinctive feel. Long gone are the days of slots taking on the traditional fruit theme, or maybe bars and zeros. Now, players have hundreds of great themes to choose from in new releases, along with the ability to play them on stakes as low as $0.05, thanks to the surge in $5 minimum deposit casinos now appearing. One of the most popular themes is an oriental one, with the following slots making the top 5 list.

1.     Floating Dragon

From studio Reel Kingdom, Floating Dragon is one of the most popular online slots in general, as well as being arguably the most popular oriental slot. The concept is a simple one – players must trigger a bonus game, in which they need to land female symbols to collect cash values on screen. With Floating Dragon it is possible to win up to 20,000 times their bet.

2.     MonkeyPop

Having the most distinctive art style makes MonkeyPop number 2 on our top 5 list. From studio AvatarUX that have brought us more than a dozen ‘PopWins’ releases, MonkeyPop focuses on Japanese artwork that is equal parts beautiful and memorable. With a host of features on offer, players can win more than 5,000 times their stake on MonkeyPop.

3.     Bruce Lee

The oldest release on our list is Bruce Lee from SG Digital – released more than a decade ago. At first glance, Bruce Lee serves as a great point of reference for how much artwork has improved in slot production over that decade, but there’s no denying that it is distinctively oriental. After all, it’s based upon the legend himself – a Hong Kong martial artist. Players can win over 4,000 times their bet in Bruce Lee. 

4.     Bushido Ways xNudge

Better known as simply ‘Bushido’, this release from Nolimit City has the biggest winning potential out of all the slots on our list. Based around the literal meaning of the word – that is, the code of honour and morals according to the Japanese samurai – Bushido Ways xNudge dives deep into an oriental world, tying the theme into every aspect of this release, in which players can win 30,000 times their stake.

5.     Big Bamboo

If it were slightly more distinctive in its oriental style, Big Bamboo from Push Gaming would make the top spot on this list. However, rather than using characters like the slots above, Big Bamboo chooses to use oriental symbols and animals, like a panda for its highest paying symbol. Big Bamboo has quickly become one of the most popular slots of all time, offering players the potential to win up to 50,000 times their bet.

These are just some of the plethora of oriental slots available online, with Neko Night: Dream Drop, Warrior Ways, Fu Fortunes, and Tiger Kingdom making up some of the other most popular releases. No matter what kind of release you’re looking for, you’ll find one to suit you, with features, maximum wins, Return to Player values, and pay mechanics that you consider to be worth your time and money.

Posted in News |

Must-Have Cigar Accessories for the Discerning Aficionado

Cigars are a gift that goes back to Roman times.

Just like there are many types of wine, there are also many types of cigars. One thing is in common between wine and cigars–they’re both wonderful to sip and smoke with dinner.

You’re probably wondering, “Can I have the best cigar possible?” the answer is yes. Fresh cigars are the type you should be smoking.

If you want to know the best cigar accessories available, keep on reading.

Cigar Humidor

The cigar aficionado must have the ultimate accessory to maintain the perfect balance of flavor, bouquet, and humidity; a cigar humidor. A cigar humidor is a climate-controlled box or room designed to store and age cigars.

The inside of the humidor is lined with Spanish cedar, designed to keep cigars fresh and flavorful. It is essential to ensure a good seal to prevent any leakage or changes in humidity or temperature.

Cigar Cutters 

To those looking for the perfect cigar cutter, there is a wide selection of accessories available. This is to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable smoking experience. Cigar cutters come in various shapes and sizes.

From the classic straight cut that slices through the cigar to the more advanced V-cut. Guillotine-style cutters offer a wider surface area for a smoother smoke.

Cigar Ashtrays and Holders

For the avid cigar smoker, the essential accessories are cigar ashtrays and holders. For the discerning aficionado, these must-have accessories are essential for a luxurious gift. It is also to enhance the enjoyment of their beloved cigars.

Some cigar ashtrays and holders are crafted from beautiful metallic materials, like stainless steel and bronze. These eye-catching selections of stylish cigar ashtrays and holders are perfect to pair with your Padron 1926. It also features various designs and styles, with choices for any personal preference or taste.

Luxury Cigar Lighters

For the discerning aficionado looking for the best cigar accessories, a luxury cigar lighter is a must-have. Luxury cigar lighters come in a variety of materials and styles and are designed to provide a perfect flame for cigars.

Many luxury cigar lighters use powerful triple-jet flame technology for precise and consistent light sources for optimal performance. Once you have picked out you’re favorite lighter. You can accessorize it with a cigar cutter, ashtray, humidifier, humidor, or an acrylic case to keep your lighter safe.

Cigar Coolers and Cases

Cigar coolers and cases are essential accessories for any discerning aficionado to enhance their cigar smoking experience. Cigar coolers ensure the optimal temperature and humidity level of the smoke, while the cases protect cigars from any outside elements.

Cigar coolers come in various designs and can range from lightweight, portable models to larger tabletop styles. Cases are usually made of wood and metal, with metal cases typically offering more protection from external damage.

Discover More About Cigar Accessories for the Discerning Aficionado

Cigar accessories are essential for aficionados of every level of experience. From cutters and humidors to lighters and ashtrays, discerning aficionado can customize their cigar experience to their tastes.

To learn more about these incredible cigar accessories and how to get the ultimate smoking experience, visit a local cigar store and discover more about cigar accessories today.

Did you find this article helpful? Check out the rest of our blog for more!

Posted in News |

A New Homeowner’s Guide to Renovating a Garage

A decent garage can be more than a place to just park your cars. It’s an excellent location to do an oil change or use as overflow storage. And after a garage renovation, it can add up to 20% value to your home.

That said, renovating a garage is quite an undertaking. It may take weeks, thousands of dollars, and leave you without a place to park your vehicles in the interim. But it’s well worth the effort, and we have some garage ideas so you can do it right.

Keep reading for a new homeowner’s guide to garage renovation or a garage remodel.

Renovating a Garage With New Flooring

Concrete is passé, collects stains, and doesn’t make your garage look very special. Choosing a new material not only improves its overall appearance, but its properties too.

If you are fine with concrete, then you should consider getting it resurfaced. Improving your home in this way can save you money rather than installing a new floor.

Decide on flooring based on your everyday usage. If you plan to do a lot of mechanical work, you’ll need stainproof flooring. But if you only plan to store vehicles, then a more affordable surface will do.

Let’s look at some of the floor options you have:

  • Vinyl: a good choice if there is minimal traffic in and out
  • VCT: durable tile that has a wax coating for protection
  • Interlocking plastic tiles: easy to install, and cheap to replace
  • Rubber flooring: good choice for multipurpose garages, such as a gym

Choosing the Right Color Scheme for a New Garage

This one should be pretty straightforward. Most people will be fine with a plain color. But if you’re planning to make a showroom or a man cave, you may enjoy a more colorful palette.

Make sure the paint is waterproof and resilient. Garages can get hot and humid during the long summers, which can lead to slow material damage.

Consider replacing the walls as well. Concrete is not great for insulation, so you might knock down the walls and rebuild them. This can help you get better thermal dynamics since your garage is an unventilated space.

Further, this helps to regulate the temperature in other rooms. Your garage likely shares a wall with an adjoining living room or bedroom. Having insulation can keep that room nice and warm–or cool.

Should You Include Insulation in a Detached Garage?

With a detached garage, you may think that there’s no need for any type of insulation. But this isn’t true. Insulation regulates the temperature in the garage, which keeps your vehicle at proper storage temperatures.

High heat during the summer can degrade the materials in your vehicle. Deep cold can drain the battery and make it impossible to start it the next morning. Insulation helps it to maintain the right temperature throughout all seasons.

Replacing or Renovating the Roof

A good roof is as important as any other part of the garage. Poor insulation will also be a significant factor in temperature regulation.

Check for leaks. Water damage is a huge risk in the garage, even with a good drainage system.

Be on the lookout for any openings for bugs and critters. Fauna love garages because they are safe, warm places where they can hide. Rat infestations often begin in a garage, so prepare rat poison if you notice droppings.

Choosing the Right Garage Door

A high-quality garage door can last for over a decade with minimal maintenance. Make sure it has insulation, as this is the primary location where heat radiates in or out.

Find a motor that is capable of lifting the garage door. Many owners cheap out, getting the lowest horsepower possible. If you do that, then the motor will struggle and wear out faster over time.

Do not attempt to install the garage door by yourself. The reason why is because the garage door spring is extremely dangerous. Mess with it, and you could suffer life-threatening injuries.

Include Loft Storage

Most garages have plenty of clearance above the garage door motor for storage. Too many owners fail to take advantage of the space. It’s really very easy to drill in some loft storage racks.

Make sure you install these so that they are not difficult access. You could theoretically maximize your space by filling out the entire ceiling area. Generally speaking, it’s better to place your racks with easy access points.

Take the time to locate wall studs to secure these racks. If you don’t, then there is a very good chance the racks will detach and come crashing down. This could happen at a very unfortunate moment, such as when you are walking beneath it.

Consider Adding Windows

Garages are often stuffy places with only artificial lighting. If you want to brighten up the place and make it a bit more inviting, then consider some windows. Even high loft windows that serve no purpose other than design are a great addition.

That said, keep in mind the potential risk that this introduces for theft. Make sure the windows are secure and will not make it easy for anyone to break in. Your cars and expensive tools are valuable targets for any thief.

Begin Your Garage Renovation Today

Renovating a garage is tough work, but it’s well worth it for improving home value and making the most of the space. The above are some excellent garage renovation ideas, but the opportunities are limitless. Build the garage you want and customize it to your needs.

If you enjoyed this article, why not visit our blog for more real estate topics?

Posted in News |

How to Pay Back a Loan Faster

Are you struggling to pay back your loan payments?

For many families, a loan can shift their quality of life for the better. However, if you are not careful, it can take over your budget and cause anxiety. If you’ve found yourself in this unfortunate situation, you may be wondering how to pay back a loan faster.

The key to staying on top of loan payments depends on the type of loan – and how you prioritize and plan your budget around it. Luckily, we’re here to break it down for you. Let’s take a look at how to stay ahead of your loan costs.

Taking on a Parttime Job or Side Hustle

Doing a part-time job or side hustle on top of a full-time job can be tricky to balance, but with the extra income, you can quickly start to make a dent in the amount that you owe.

If you get paid twice monthly, try to make an additional payment in the middle or at the end of the loan period. Even small additional payments can make a big difference.

You can also set up an automatic money transfer to your loan holders as an easy way to manage payments and maintenance of your loan as well as ultimately reduce the amount that you owe.

Pay off Loans in Smaller Increments

One way to do this is to make little payments when you can. This way, you’re reducing the amount of interest that builds up on the loan each month. You can also pay the loan off in smaller increments rather than large payments.

This can shave weeks, months, and years off the loan term. Another option is to refinance the loan with a different lender at a lower rate. This can save thousands of dollars in interest and reduce your monthly payments.

Use Tax Refunds and Bonuses for Payment

Identify what payday bonus or taxes refund you are likely to receive each year. Then make a plan to use those payments to pay extra on your loan.

This is so that you can still enjoy some of that money while making a significant impact on your overall loan balance. You can even put the money directly towards the principal of your loan or into an escrow account to save up for a bigger payment.

By strategically using your tax refunds and bonuses, you will be able to pay your loan off much faster than you would if you just make regular payments.

Understanding Accelerated Loan Repayment

It involves increasing your monthly payments or adding extra payments to make more significant contributions to the principal of your loan.

The stunning effect of making larger payments can reduce the length of your loan and the total amount of interest you’re paying over time.

To ensure you are paying the least amount of interest, you should always contact your loan servicer and discuss all the options they have available.

Implementing the Debt Snowball System

The Debt Snowball System is an effective strategy to consider. The method involves listing all the loan accounts that you have and focusing on paying off the loan with the smallest balance first.

Once the amount is paid off, move on to the next loan with the next smallest balance. This way, the amount that was being paid toward the first loan can now be rolled over to the payment of the larger loan and so on.

This method can help pay off the loan faster and make payment scheduling better when it comes to multiple loan accounts.

Use Payday Loans

These short-term loans are suitable for those who need quick access to funds to cover emergency or unexpected expenses. The best payday loans online often do not need a credit check.

It makes them an easy choice for those who have had difficulty accessing loans from traditional lenders or who have poor credit ratings.

When you receive the funds, you must budget carefully and prioritize payments to the payday loan as quickly as possible.

You may find that making weekly payments toward the loan will help reduce the interest you accumulate more quickly. Using automated deductions from your paycheck may help ensure that you stay on schedule with loan payments.

Refinance the Loan

Refinancing involves taking out another loan to pay off the current loan and allows you to adjust the terms of the repayment, such as interest and period of repayment.

Depending on the terms of the new loan and the interest rate, you may be able to extend or shrink your repayment period, thereby reducing your monthly payment amount.

Thus, if an applicant can qualify for lower interest, refinancing can allow them to pay off loans faster. Refinancing may also provide more repayment flexibility, which could be helpful when going through an unexpected change in financial circumstances.

Debt Consolidation

By consolidating debts, you can simplify your repayments and potentially decrease them while possibly shortening your loan term. While it requires careful consideration, debt consolidation may be able to save you money in interest and time.

You can shop around with several lenders to compare offers and look into special borrowing solutions. Depending on your credit, you might have access to a lower interest rate.

Many lenders also let borrowers make added payments each month, making it possible to pay off their loans faster. But be sure to calculate the costs associated with each choice first to decide what will work best for you.

Learn How to Pay Back Your Loan Faster Today

By making extra payments, increasing payments, adding extra to each payment, or refinancing with a lower-rate loan, you can pay back your loan faster.

Take advantage of these options and take control of your loan repayment while you can. Don’t wait – start getting out of debt faster today!

Did you find this article helpful? Check out the rest of our blogs!

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Difference Between THC and CBD

Are you confused by the wide range of cannabis products that have hit the market in recent years? If so, you’re not alone.

As the use of cannabis and its derivatives continues to grow, there is a growing interest in understanding the compounds that make up the plant. Among the most well-known and widely used compounds found in cannabis are THC and CBD.

Though derived from the same plant, they have markedly different effects on the body and mind.

In this article, we explore the difference between THC and CBD in detail. Keep reading to learn more.

What is THC?

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive compound found in cannabis that is responsible for the “high” people feel when they consume cannabis. THC has the ability to produce euphoria, relaxation, and altered sensory perception.

It works by binding to receptors in the brain that are responsible for mood, appetite, and pain perception.

The amount of THC in different strains of cannabis can vary, and its effects can vary depending on the dosage, method of consumption, and individual tolerance.

While THC can be beneficial for some medical conditions, it is also associated with negative side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and impaired memory.

THC has been found to have a number of medical benefits. Delta variants have been used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, stimulate appetite, and treat conditions such as glaucoma, nausea, and multiple sclerosis.

THC has also been found to have potential as a treatment for psychiatric disorders such as depression and PTSD.

Here’s a resource where you can learn why unregulated THC variants are dangerous.

What is CBD?

What is CBD? CBD, or cannabidiol, is another compound found in cannabis that has gained popularity in recent years.

CBD isn’t psychoactive. This means it doesn’t produce a “high.”

Instead, CBD is known for its therapeutic properties and has been used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating mood, appetite, and sleep.

It has been found to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-seizure properties, making it a popular choice for those seeking natural remedies for their health issues.

CBD is found in varying amounts in different strains of cannabis, and it can be extracted and used in a variety of forms, including oils, edibles, and topicals.

The Differences Between THC and CBD

While THC and CBD are both derived from cannabis, they have vastly different effects on the body and mind. Here are some of the key differences:

Psychoactive Properties

One of the most significant differences between THC and CBD is their psychoactive properties. THC is psychoactive and produces a “high” when consumed, while CBD is not psychoactive and does not produce a “high.”

THC binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain, while CBD does not bind to these receptors.

Medical Benefits

Both THC and CBD have been found to have medical benefits, but they work in different ways. THC is known for its pain-relieving properties, making it a popular choice for those suffering from chronic pain conditions.

It has also been found to stimulate appetite, making it useful for those undergoing chemotherapy or suffering from eating disorders.

CBD, on the other hand, has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties and is useful in treating conditions such as arthritis and multiple sclerosis. It has also been found to have anti-anxiety properties and can be used to treat anxiety disorders.

CBD has been found to be effective in reducing seizures in patients with epilepsy, particularly in children.

Legal Status

The legal status of THC and CBD varies depending on where you live. In most states in the US, THC is illegal for recreational use but is legal for medical use with a prescription.

CBD, on the other hand, is legal in most states for both medical and recreational use, as long as it is derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC.

Side Effects

While THC and CBD are generally considered safe, they can have different side effects. THC can cause anxiety, paranoia, impaired memory, and increased heart rate. CBD, on the other hand, can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, and changes in appetite.

Drug Testing

Because THC is psychoactive, it can show up on drug tests. CBD, on the other hand, will not show up on a drug test as long as it is derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC.

Legal Regulation

THC variants are heavily regulated and can only be purchased from licensed dispensaries in states where it is legal. CBD, on the other hand, is much less regulated and can be purchased in a variety of forms online or in health food stores.

Dosage

The dosage of THC and CBD can also vary greatly. THC can have different effects depending on the amount consumed, while CBD is generally considered safe even at high doses.

Method of Consumption

THC and CBD can be consumed in a variety of ways, including smoking, vaping, edibles, and topicals. The method of consumption can affect the onset and duration of their effects.

A Guide to the Difference Between THC and CBD

It’s no secret that cannabis use is more popular than ever before. That’s why everyone should understand the difference between THC and CBD so they can find the perfect products for their lifestyle.

Please continue exploring this blog to find more articles filled with useful lifestyle-oriented information and advice.

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3 Ways QR Codes Can Improve Your Digital Marketing Campaign

Did you know that there are 5,168,780,067 internet users in the world?

Are you looking for ways to up your digital marketing game? QR codes are growing in popularity, especially with the younger crowd. You may be behind the times if you haven’t heard of QR codes yet.

Want to learn how QR codes can benefit your marketing strategy? If that sounds like you, keep reading. Below is a guide to improving your digital marketing campaign with QR codes.

1. Enhance Brand Visibility 

QR codes can be used in digital marketing campaigns to enhance brand visibility. These codes can help quickly direct potential customers to the company’s website. This provides them with product information or even runs a survey.

To succeed with these codes, the company must use a QR code generator and promote them prominently on all its digital channels. This includes their website, email campaigns, and social media networks. This will help customers find it easier.

By scanning the code, customers can quickly and easily access product information. They can even shop and purchase if they like.

2. Improve Online Engagement

QR codes can enhance digital marketing campaigns and give customers a more interactive and exciting experience. Customers can scan the code by generating a QR code and adding it to advertisements, website pages, and emails to access additional information quickly.

Companies can also use unique QR codes to track analytics and gain valuable insight. Customers can further interact with the brand and provide feedback via the QR code. This helps to improve online engagement and can be used to directly link customers to product pages, informational videos, and other digital content.

Furthermore, QR codes can provide location-specific information relevant to that customer. It can be used to deliver exclusive offers and discounts.

Businesses can design their QR codes to be visually engaging and incorporate their branding. This helps customers feel more connected to your company. These factors help make QR codes an effective and cost-efficient tool to improve online engagement and help your digital marketing campaigns succeed.

3. High Level of Data Collection

QR codes can create a digital paper trail. This allows you to pinpoint the exact point of purchase or contact the customer. QR codes are versatile; they can be shared through emails, text messages, flyers, and direct-mail campaigns, allowing you to track the source of each visitor.

By creating detailed campaigns targeted towards an individual, QR codes can provide high levels of data collection. This ensures you can track exactly how your campaigns perform.

Collecting customer data as they redeem the offers can help you further refine your campaigns. Developing sophisticated strategies from the data collected allows you to reach your target audiences more effectively and efficiently. With the help of QR codes, you can increase both the cost-efficiency and success of your digital marketing campaigns.

Use QR Codes in Your Digital Marketing Campaign Today

QR codes offer huge potential for significantly improving digital marketing campaigns. They are an effective and easily accessible way to reach customers, drive website or app traffic, and engagingly convey important information.

Integrating QR codes into your digital marketing campaigns is an innovative and cost-effective way to build your brand and maximize ROI.

If you find this article helpful, visit our website and read more.

Posted in News |

Invitation Only (2009) Review

"Invitation Only" Blu-ray Cover

“Invitation Only” Blu-ray Cover

Director: Kevin Ko
Cast: Bryant Chang, Jerry Huang, Julianne Chu, Kristian Brodie, Maria Ozawa, Kao Ying-Hsuan, Lene Lai, Vivi Ho, Liz Ran Yang, Joseph Ma
Running Time: 95 min. 

By Paul Bramhall

Like every genre, horror is one that goes through phases. While in recent times we increasingly see horror being used as a theme to explore trauma, back in the 2000’s the genre was in a much more visceral place, the result of which saw the emergence of movies which came to be referred to as ‘torture porn’. At the forefront were titles like Eli Roth’s Hostel (and its sequel) and James Wan’s Saw (which would spawn a total of 5 sequels in the 2000’s alone), defined by how much gratuitous bodily harm could be inflicted on screen, and the assumed pleasure that viewers took from watching it. Of course the Hollywood movies in question were far from the pioneers of the genre, with arguably Japan being the originator of this specific niche, particularly movies like 1998’s Tumbling Doll of Flesh, which made their western counterparts seem like PG rated material in comparison.

What can’t be denied though is that in the 2000’s it was movies like Hostel and Saw which pushed this type of genre offering to the fore, and in Asia 2009 proved to be a fruitful year for those who liked their horror to be caked in blood and guts. Japan got in on the action with Koji Shirashi’s Grotesque (which remains banned in the UK to this day), in Indonesia the Mo Brothers made their feature length debut with Macabre, and another first-time director in the form of Kevin Ko unleashed Continue reading

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The Best Asian MMA Movies 

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When it comes to sporting cinema, there’s a plethora of options available. Modern streaming services such as Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney Plus have something for everyone. Each site offers up its own collection of boxing, basketball, and soccer movies, but MMA is something that is often overlooked. Following the boom of the UFC, the sport was documented more and more in the movie world, and Asian producers and directors have had their fair share of impressive martial arts-related spectacles over the years. And here are the best of them. 

Mortal Kombat (1995) 

Talk about a wild ride filled with jaw-dropping action scenes, killer special effects, and an iconic techno soundtrack that still gets stuck in your head for days. Mortal Kombat truly has it all. This flick managed to capture the essence of the legendary video game it was based on, propelling its memorable characters—Sub-Zero, Scorpion, and the thunder god Raiden—onto the big screen. It was one of those campy cult classics that took audiences on a non-stop adrenaline rush, cementing its place as the ultimate guilty pleasure for any ’90s kid seeking a nostalgia trip. Trust me, if you haven’t seen it or even if you just haven’t revisited it in a while, give Mortal Kombat another spin. 

Tekken (2010) 

Just like Mortal Kombat which came before it, Tekken — as we all know — is also a beloved video game that was turned into a classic movie. The fight scenes in this movie are jaw-dropping and guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat, as you follow the journey of Jin Kazama avenging the death of his mother. You don’t even have to be a fan of the game to enjoy it, because the storyline is enthralling and will have you rooting for Jin as he tackles various foes in the brutal Tekken tournament. Trust us, Tekken is a thrilling joyride that you definitely want to add to your must-watch list.

Warrior (2011) 

Okay, for this one we cheated. This isn’t an Asian movie, but it is simply brilliant, and it’s a must-see for MMA fans the world over. The movie stars British superstar Tom Hardy in his breakout role. He and his estranged brother both enter the same MMA tournament, a tournament which features former professional wrestler Kurt Angle (starring as a Russian behemoth named Koba) and former UFC middleweight title contender Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson. 

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Jason David Frank, Mark Dacascos and Johnny Yong Bosch gear up for the martial arts film ‘Legend of the White Dragon’

"Legend of the White Dragon " Teaser Poster

“Legend of the White Dragon ” Teaser Poster

We’ll soon see Jason David Frank’s final performance in Legend of the White Dragon, an upcoming fantasy-actioner from filmmaker Aaron Schoenke (Ninjak vs the Valiant Universe). The late martial arts actor is best known for playing Tommy Oliver in the popular Power Rangers franchise.

Legend of the White Dragon follows Erik Reed/The White Dragon (Frank), who after being a fugitive on the run for three years, has returned to the city he fought to protect. He must now clear his name and save the family he keeps in secret before the mysterious Dragon Prime (Aaron Schoenke) unleashes his own revenge (via Deadline).

The film also features martial arts sensations Mark Dacascos (One Night in Bangkok) and Johnny Yong Bosch (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers), along Continue reading

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Watch the Final Trailer for Netflix’ ‘Kill Boksoon’ from ‘Merciless’ director Byun Sung-Hyun starring Jeon Do-yeon

"Kill Boksoon" Netflix Poster

“Kill Boksoon” Netflix Poster

Arriving to Netflix on March 31 is Kill Boksoon, a Korean actioner directed by Byun Sung-Hyun (Kingmaker, The Merciless) that stars Jeon Do-yeon (Emergency Declaration, Beasts Clawing at Straws).

Kill Boksoon (read our review) centers on Boksoon, a woman who leads a double life – as a hired assassin and a single mother with a teenaged girl. When her contract with a top-tier killing agency is up for renewal, she decides to step away from the company to find out what is keeping her daughter shut away from her (via Deadline).

The film also stars Sol Kyung-Gu (Kingmaker), Esom (Possession), Koo Gyo-Hwan (Peninsula) and Kim Si-A (Miss Baek).

Don’t miss the film’s Final Trailer Continue reading

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