Sex and Zen | Blu-ray (88 Films)

Sex and Zen | Blu-ray (88 Films)

Sex and Zen | Blu-ray (88 Films)

RELEASE DATE: December 16, 2024

On December 16, 2024, 88 Films will be releasing the Blu-ray for Sex and Zen, a 1991 cult comedy Hong Kong film from director Michael Mak Tong Kit (Long Arm of the Law 2) that stars Lawrence Ng Kai Wah (To Be Number One) and Amy Yip Chi May (Miracles).

“Banned for 400 years!” screamed the original poster and you can see why as this erotic comedy is brilliantly bizarre, pretty sleazy and downright weird. Also known as The Carnal Prayer Mat’s Stash of Illicit Love and slightly based on the seventeenth century novel The Carnel Prayer Mat, we follow a desperate man who is convinced by his mentor that he needs to be “well equipped” to pleasure his wife, so he has a horses appendage transplanted onto him! From here on in it gets really Continue reading

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That’s why they call it blood-spurt, kid! Blu-ray for Tai Kato’s 1966 thriller ‘Tokijiro: Lone Yakuza’ now available

Tokijiro: Lone Yakuza | Blu-ray (Radiance)

Tokijiro: Lone Yakuza | Blu-ray (Radiance)

Now shipping from Goodie Emporium is Radiance Film’s Blu-ray for Tokijiro: Lone Yakuza (Region A/B), a 1966 Japanese thriller from director Tai Kato (I, the Executioner).

Weary of the rigid codes of the underworld, gambler Tokijiro (Kinnosuke Nakamura, Goyokin) wanders Japan in search of freedom. But escape proves to be impossible when an obligation to a gang boss leaves him with no choice but to kill a man. To atone for his crime, he vows to take care of his victim’s widow and young son. But the gang won’t rest until they’ve killed the entire family – including the man who stands in their way.

With this breathtakingly stylised film, Tai Kato broke all the conventions Continue reading

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How Does Playing Online Games Affect Your Brain

How Does Playing Online Games Affect Your Brain

How Does Playing Online Games Affect Your Brain

Nowadays, people of various age groups tend to spend quite a considerable amount of time over online gaming during their leisure hours. Online computer games can vary from time-wasting puzzles to deeply engaging multiplayer action games. 

But the question is: what exactly goes on in the brain during an online gaming session? The negative and positive impacts differ with the game type and also its time frame.

Positive Cognitive Effects of Online Gaming

Among many, one of the biggest advantages of online gaming is improving cognitive skills. The games that include strategy, thinking, and quick problem-solving skills sharpen up the brain. For example, puzzle games develop the memory and spatial awareness of a person. 

To become a master at it, the players have to remember exercises for the brain similar to those in conventional brain-training exercises.

On the other hand, action video games are believed to enhance hand-eye coordination and reaction times. Most of these games require quick decisions to overcome some challenges; thus, they enhance one’s speed in processing information. 

Studies have indicated that frequent gamers sometimes achieve higher standards in reaction and multitasking compared to their peers who are non-gamers.

Social Interaction and Online Gaming

Contrary to the stereotype of the lonely gamer, online games can be social. Online gaming could be done cooperatively, such as role-playing, or competitively, such as opposed play at a card game. This can provide opportunities for socialization, especially for those who may be shy or introverted. 

While working together to accomplish a common goal, players can develop social bonds and friendships that might endure beyond the game. Furthermore, you can Visit Tiranga Game, where you can explore mentally challenging color prediction games. Here you also had a chance to win some real money which would help you financially.

However, not all online gaming social interactions are positive. Anonymity online, for what it’s worth, invites toxic behavior, harassment, and bullying. This greatly feeds back negatively to mental health, which causes stress, anxiety, and even depression. 

Emotional Significance of Online Gaming

While online gaming has mentally stimulating elements to it, the practice has an equal emotional impact. Games are designed in such a way as to keep high emotions running, either as triumphant regard for victory or frustrated states of defeat. Association with the sensation of satisfaction can further give motivation to go on further.

However, this could also be the source of addiction. The rewarding circle in a game would make participants feel necessary to continue playing the game even if it is to the detriment of other activities. This addiction can lead to detrimental effects such as increasing stress, and anxiety, and decreasing social contact in real life.

The Danger of Overuse

Like everything in this world, online gaming should be done in moderation. Too much gaming will result in detrimental mental and physical consequences. Eyes ache from continuous streaming; bad posture can be achieved, and sleep patterns are ruined as well. Mentally, it results in a short-span attention span that lowers problem-solving skills in real life.

A balance between gaming and other activities will have to be created if these risks are to be avoided. Breaks, physical exercise, and interaction in social circles away from gaming can keep the otherwise harmful effects of the habit at bay.

Conclusion

Online gaming has a powerful effect on the brain. No matter how significant these cognitive and social benefits of this activity may be, it is equally significant to keep in mind the possible side effects. Moderation and awareness go together to keep the activity positive and rewarding.

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Deal on Fire! Pound of Flesh | Blu-ray | Only $9.96 – Expires soon!

Pound of Flesh | Blu-ray & DVD (Entertainment One)

Pound of Flesh | Blu-ray & DVD (Entertainment One)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for Pound of Flesh, a 2015 thriller directed by Ernie Barbarash (Abduction, Assassination Games).

In Pound of Flesh (read our review), a man’s (Jean-Claude Van Damme, Double Impact, The Bouncer) heroic attempt to help a woman in distress ends up with him waking up the next day without a kidney and plotting his revenge.

The film co-stars Kristopher Van Varenberg (Enemies Closer), Darren Shahlavi (Tai Chi Boxer, Techno Warriors), John Ralston (Degrassi The Next Generation), William B Davis (The X-Files), Charlotte Peters, as well as Mike Leeder (Ultimate Justice) getting a taste of JCVD’s secret weapon: his trademark Continue reading

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Just Beat it! ‘Hana-bi’ and ‘Outrage’ star Takeshi Kitano returns for more ultra-violence with ‘Broken Rage’

"Broken Rage" Teaser Poster

“Broken Rage” Teaser Poster

The legendary, multi-talented Japanese celebrity Takeshi Kitano (Outrage Coda, Battle Royale, Hana-Bi) is heading back to bloodshed with Amazon MGM Studios’ Broken Rage, an upcoming thriller he not only directs, but also stars in.

The first half of Broken Rage follows a hitman, Nezumi (Kitano), fighting for his survival when he’s caught between the police and yakuza. But in the second half, the gritty crime-action thriller takes an unexpected turn, evolving into a self-parodying comedy that retells the same story with a captivatingly humorous touch (via FCS).

The film also stars Tadanobu Asano (Kate), Nao Omori (R100), Shidō Nakamura (Monster), Hidetoshi Nishijima (Mozu: The Movie), Hakuryu (The Good, The Bad, The Weird), Takashi Nishina (Outrage Coda) and Continue reading

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Made in Japan? ‘Drive’ director Nicolas Winding Refn heads to Tokyo to shoot a thriller with glitter, sex and violence

"Only God Forgives" Japanese Theatrical Poster

“Only God Forgives” Japanese Theatrical Poster

Nicolas Winding Refn, the writer/director behind The Pusher Trilogy (1996-2005), 2009’s Valhalla Rising, 2011’s Drive, 2013’s Only God Forgives and 2016’s The Neon Demon, is returning to the big screen for an untitled, Tokyo-set thriller.

According to an interview with Variety, the upcoming film – whose plot and casting details are being under wraps – “will have a lot of glitter and lot of sex and violence”. The director hinted that the movie will bring back themes and characters inspired by his last features, Only God Forgives and The Neon Demon, which were both equally stylish and graphic.

We’ll keep you updated on this project as we learn more. Until then, here’s the Trailer Continue reading

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Shawscope Volume Three: Limited Edition | Blu-ray (Arrow)

RELEASE DATE: November 26, 2024

On November 26, 2024, Arrow Video will be releasing the long-awaited Shawscope Volume Three: Limited Edition (pre-order today from Goodie Emporium), which will include 14 films on Blu-ray (Region A/B). Unlike the first two volumes, which were released only a year apart, Shawscope Volume Three has a 2-year gap, so fans have been eagerly waiting for this one!

Read the official details:

Before Hong Kong’s mightiest film studio mastered the art of the kung fu film, Shaw Brothers hit box office gold with a very different kind of martial arts cinema, one that channelled the blood-soaked widescreen violence of Japanese samurai epics and Italian spaghetti westerns into a uniquely Chinese form: the wuxia pian. With their enthralling tales drawn Continue reading

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What you call hell, we call Bangkok! Watch the insane Trailer for Netflix’ ‘Bangkok Breaking: Heaven and Hell’

"Bangkok Breaking: Heaven and Hell" Netflix Poster

“Bangkok Breaking: Heaven and Hell” Netflix Poster

On September 26, 2024, Netflix will be streaming Bangkok Breaking: Heaven and Hell, an action-thriller from writer/director Kome Kongkiat Komesiri (Muay Thai Fighter).

When a dedicated rescue worker inadvertently gets caught up in the kidnapping plot of a mogul’s tween daughter, he must save her from the clutches of rival gangs hunting them down with unpredictable dangers around every corner.

Bangkok Breaking: Heaven and Hell stars Sukollawat Kanaros (Thirteen Lives), Atitaya Tribudarak (Nang Nak Saphai Phra Khanong), Sanya Kunakorn (Who Is Running?), and Day Thaitanium.

Look out for Bangkok Breaking: Heaven and Hel on September 26 only on Netflix. Watch Continue reading

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Tomie | Blu-ray (Arrow)

Tomie | Blu-ray (Arrow)

Tomie | Blu-ray (Arrow)

RELEASE DATE: November 19, 2024

On November 19, 2024, Arrow Video is releasing the Blu-ray for Tomie, a creepy supernatural chiller directed by Ataru Oikawa (screenwriter of the pioneering Japanese horror, Door) and featuring a chilling turn by the sensational Miho Kanno (Eko Eko Azarak: Wizard of Darkness, Dolls).

Based on the smash-hit series of the same name by cult manga artist Junji Itō (Uzumaki), Tomie tells the tale of an evil high-school seductress identifiable by a beauty mark beneath her left eye, whose bewitching kiss drives men to madness.

Photography student Tsukiko (Mami Nakamura, Love Exposure) is plagued by violent dreams as she struggles Continue reading

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The Sword | Blu-ray (Eureka)

The Sword | Blu-ray (Eureka)

The Sword | Blu-ray (Eureka)

RELEASE DATE: November 18, 2024

On November 18, 2024, Eureka will be releasing the Blu-ray (Region A/B) for The Sword, a 1980 Golden Harvest actioner from director Patrick Tam Kar-Ming (My Heart is That Eternal Rose).

Best known as a key contributor to the Hong Kong New Wave as the director of My Heart is That Eternal Rose and the editor of Wong Kar-wai’s Days of Being Wild and Ashes of Time, Patrick Tam began his filmmaking career with The Sword: a love letter to the wuxia genre starring Adam Cheng (Zu Warriors from the Magic Mountain).

Believing that he is in possession of a cursed blade, the legendary swordsman Continue reading

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Super Spies and Secret Lies | Blu-ray (Eureka)

 Super Spies and Secret Lies | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Super Spies and Secret Lies | Blu-ray (Eureka)

RELEASE DATE: November 18, 2024

On November 18, 2024, Eureka will be releasing the Blu-ray (Region A/B) for Super Spies and Secret Lies, which will include 1966’s The Golden Buddha, 1967’s Angel with the Iron Fists and 1969’s The Singing Thief.

Following the enormous international success of Dr. No and From Russia with Love, Bondmania swept the globe and initiated a cycle of Bondsploitation movies. Studios all over the world sought to capitalise on James Bond and the concept of the super-spy – including Hong Kong’s venerable Shaw Brothers, who began producing tales of intrigue, espionage, and grand theft in the mid-1960s. Eureka Classics presents three of their best Continue reading

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A black belt is a white belt who never quits! New Trailer for Netflix’ ‘Officer Black Belt’ starring star Kim Woo-Bin

"Officer Black Belt" Theatrical Poster

“Officer Black Belt” Theatrical Poster

Don Wong, eat your heart out! Arriving soon to Netflix is Officer Black Belt, an action-comedy from writer/director Kim Joo-Hwan (The Divine Fury, Midnight Runners).

In the film, a talented martial arts prodigy – who holds nine dans across Taekwondo, Kendo, and Judo – teams  up with a probation officer to fight and prevent crime as a police officer.

The film stars Kim Woo-Bin (Alienoid, Alienoid: Return to the Future), Kim Sung-Kyun (Seoul Vibe, The Divine Move 2: The Wrathful) and Lee Hae-young (Confidential Assignment 2: International, Kingmaker).

Officer Black Belt hits Netflix on September 13, 2024. Don’t miss the film’s Continue reading

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Deal on Fire! Deluxe Limited Edition Battle Creek Brawl | Blu-ray | Only $26.99

Today’s Deal on Fire is for 88 Films’ Deluxe Limited Edition Blu-ray (Region B) for Battle Creek Brawl (aka The Big Brawl), Jackie Chan’s 1980 film directed by Robert Clouse (Game of Death, Enter the Dragon) that also stars Jose Ferrer (Joan of Arc), Kristine DeBell (Cheerleaders’ Wild Weekend) and Mako (Silent Assassins).

Official details:

Jackie Chan arrived on American soil with hopes of becoming a superstar in the West and his first ever Hollywood project as a leading man certainly provided him with a notable director in Robert Clouse, the legendary director who took Bruce Lee to the next level with Enter the Dragon (1973). With Battle Creek Brawl (1980), Director Clouse achieved it, this Continue reading

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Man of Reason, A (2023) Review

"A Man of Reason" Theatrical Poster

“A Man of Reason” Theatrical Poster

Director: Jung Woo-sung
Cast: Jung Woo-sung, Kim Nam-Gil, Kim Joon-Han, Park Sung-Woong, Park Yoo-Na, Lee Elijah, Ryu Jian, Kim Joo-Hun, Park Yong, Choi Soo-Im
Running Time: 98 min. 

By Paul Bramhall 

One of the most enduring actors in Korean cinema, since making his debut in 1994’s The Fox With Nine Tails Jung Woo-sung has rarely been absent from the screen in the close to 30 years that followed, and in 2023 he’d make his directorial debut (in addition to co-writing the script) with A Man of Reason. Following a similar approach to his close friend Lee Jung-jae’s directorial debut from the year prior, Hunt (in which Woo-sung co-starred), here he also casts himself as the lead, playing a former gangster who’s just been released from prison after serving a 10-year sentence.

For a directorial debut A Man of Reason gets off to a visually striking start, with the cinematography of the scenes where Woo-sung is released from prison bathed in orange hues, serving to make the Korean countryside almost look like a desert and give off a western influenced vibe. While the cinematography may be striking though, the story and characters soon Continue reading

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Modern day samurai? ‘Past Lives’ actor Teo Yoo to star in the Chad Stahelski-produced samurai actioner ‘Karoshi’

"Past Lives" Theatrical Poster

“Past Lives” Theatrical Poster

Takashi Doscher, the writer and director of 2018’s Still and 2019’s Only – as well as writer for Chad Stahelskis’ upcoming live-action adaptation of the video game, Ghost of Tsushima – is on board to direct Lionsgate’s Karoshi, an upcoming actioner that will be produced by Stahelskis’ 87Eleven.

The upcoming film will be headlined by rising star Teo Yoo, who is perhaps best known for 2022’s Decision to Leave and 2023’s Past Lives. No other casting details have been revealed.

According to Deadline, plot details for Karoshi are being kept under wraps, but it’s described as a corporate thriller with a samurai twist. Side note: “Karoshi” is a Japanese term that means “overwork death” (occupation-related sudden death).

We’ll keep you updated Continue reading

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