Enter the Dragon: 50th Anniversary | 4K UHD + Blu-ray (Warner)

RELEASE DATE: 2023

Warner will soon be releasing the Enter the Dragon 50th Anniversary Ultimate Collector’s Edition on 4K UHD. The set will feature both the theatrical and original Special Edition cuts remastered in glorious 4K UHD.

Warner is also releasing a standalone 4K UHD + Blu-ray (also features both cuts), which will be released August 7, 2023 (UK)/August 8, 2023 (US) – see details below for each release.

Bruce Lee’s final film, Enter the Dragon, stands the test of time as the most beloved martial-arts epic in film history. To avenge the death of his sister, Lee infiltrates the island fortress of criminal warlord Han and enters his brutal tournament. The result is a breath-taking visual Continue reading

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

Kinji Fukasaku’s ‘Samurai Reincarnation’ starring Sonny Chiba and Hiroyuki Sanada now available on Blu-ray

Samurai Reincarnation | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Samurai Reincarnation | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Now available from Goodie Emporium is Eureka’s Blu-ray (Region B) for Samurai Reincarnation, a 1981 samurai/fantasy film from director Kinji Fukasaku (The Green Slime, New Battles Without Honor and Humanity).

Samurai Reincarnation stars Sonny Chiba (Soul of Chiba), Kenji Sawada (The Happiness of the Katakuris), Hiroyuki Sanada (John Wick: Chapter 4), Ken Ogata (Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters) and Tomisaburo Wakayama (Lone Wolf and Cub: Sword of Vengeance).

Official details:

In the aftermath of a failed rebellion, Amakusa Shiro (Kenji Sawada) is crucified, but returns as a vengeance-filled demon with the power to resurrect Continue reading

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Tadashi Imai’s 1964 samurai actioner ‘Revenge’ starring Kinnosuke Nakamura arriving is now available

Revenge | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Revenge | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Now available from Goodie Emporium is Eureka’s Blu-ray (Region B) for Revenge, a 1964 samurai actioner from acclaimed director Tadashi Imai (Till We Meet Again) and leading star, Kinnosuke Nakamura (Incident at Blood Pass)

A cruel jidaigeki masterwork from director Tadashi Imai (Cruel Tale of Bushido) and screenwriter Shinobu Hashimoto, the writer of Masaki Kobayashi’s great masterpiece Harakiri, Revenge is a lacerating attack on the absurdity and hypocrisy of feudal Japan

An innocuous comment during a weapon inspection wounds the pride of low-ranking samurai Shinpachi (Kinnosuke Nakamura), leading to an argument with his superior. The situation snowballs Continue reading

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How Apps Can Help You Drive Safely

Every year, 1.35 million people die on the roads. That’s why safe driving is always being prioritized. When it comes to road safety, apps have proven to be invaluable tools, empowering drivers to adopt responsible behaviors and enhancing the overall driving experience.

From preventing distracted driving to providing real-time traffic updates, monitoring driver behavior, and offering emergency assistance, safe driving apps have the potential to significantly improve road safety. Find out more about how they can make you a safer diver below.

Distracted Driving Prevention

One of the most prevalent causes of accidents is distracted driving, particularly due to smartphone use. Fortunately, several apps aim to combat this dangerous behavior. They achieve this by limiting or blocking certain functions on smartphones while driving.

For example, some apps can automatically activate a “do not disturb” feature. They do this when they detect that a vehicle is in motion.

This feature can disable incoming notifications. It blocks access to texting and social media apps. This encourages drivers to focus solely on the road.

Some apps even provide automated responses to incoming messages. They inform senders that the recipient is currently driving.

By reducing distractions, these apps contribute to a safer driving experience. They help drivers resist the temptation to use their smartphones.

Navigation and Real-Time Traffic Updates

Navigation apps have become an essential tool for drivers. They offer turn-by-turn directions, alternate routes, and real-time traffic updates.

These apps use GPS technology to find the user’s location. They then provide accurate directions to where the driver wants to go.

Navigation apps also incorporate real-time traffic data. This helps drivers make informed decisions about their routes. These apps enable them to choose alternative routes and avoid potential delays.

The ability to access real-time traffic updates helps drivers stay informed. As a result, they make safer decisions on the road. This reduces frustration and the likelihood of engaging in risky maneuvers.

For example, if you know you’re coming up to an accident, you can slow down and put your hazard lights on to warn cars behind you. This reduces the risk of you or someone else approaching the accident too fast and causing a second collision.

Speed Limit Notifications and Alerts

Maintaining appropriate speed limits is crucial for road safety. Speeding increases the risk of accidents. It also reduces the driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations.

Some apps come with speed limit notifications and alerts. They use GPS data to monitor the vehicle’s speed.

They can then provide warnings when exceeding the designated limit. These reminders help drivers stay within legal speed limits. This leads to improved road safety.

Some apps also provide audio or visual alerts when drivers exceed a certain threshold above the speed limit. They encourage them to slow down and adhere to the posted limits.

By promoting compliance with speed regulations, these apps contribute to safer road conditions. They reduce the likelihood of accidents caused by excessive speeding.

Apps won’t share your speeding information with authorities. However, if you’re involved in an accident, any app you use for driving may be checked to find out more information about the collision.

Driver Behavior Monitoring

Certain apps track and analyze driver behavior. By using sensors within the smartphone, these apps collect driving data. For example, acceleration, braking patterns, and driving habits.

Through data analysis, the apps highlight areas for improvement and encourage safer practices. For example, if an app detects frequent hard braking, it can offer suggestions on how to improve.

Some apps also offer coaching features. These provide real-time feedback during driving sessions to help drivers change their habits. By following these tips, you can become a safer driver and be less of a danger to yourself and other road users.

This self-monitoring approach helps drivers become more aware. They can then make any changes they feel they need. It’s also very gratifying to see your score or point level improve because you’ve made the changes to become a safer driver!

Emergency Assistance and Crash Detection

In the event of an accident, apps with crash detection capabilities can be lifesaving. These apps utilize sensors within smartphones. For example, they use accelerometers and gyroscopes.

These detect sudden impacts or changes in velocity that may indicate a collision.

The app automatically sends an alert to emergency authorities if it detects an impact. It can provide them with the driver’s location. It can also provide information about the accident, such as speed.

Some apps also offer features like automatic crash detection and emergency response activation. They provide critical information about the crash to assist responders.

These capabilities ensure swift response times. They aid in prompt medical attention during critical situations. This reduces the risk of severe injury and fatalities.

Gamification for Safe Driving

To incentivize safe driving behaviors, some apps use gamification techniques. They reward drivers for practicing safe habits. They help track speeds, monitor sudden braking, and stay within lanes.

These apps often give points to users based on their safe driving practices. This fosters a sense of competition, encouraging responsible behavior behind the wheel.

Some apps even offer virtual rewards or allow users to compete with friends. This creates a social aspect of safe driving.

By introducing gamification elements, these apps make safe driving engaging and enjoyable. Drivers stay motivated and maintain good habits and reinforce positive behaviors over time.

Cheaper Insurance Options

Some insurers offer safe driving apps when you insure your car with them. When you use these on the road, they record your driving and update your insurance agency.

Some will reduce your insurance cost by having a good score on their app. This tells them you’re a safe driver, less likely to cause a collision due to distractions.

These apps are useful for younger drivers who have high insurance rates. They can reduce costs significantly while also teaching younger drivers how to be responsible on the road.

Understanding Distracted Driving

Distracted driving encompasses any activity that diverts a driver’s attention from the road. Distractions can take various forms, including visual and manual. It may also cover cognitive distractions.

Common examples include texting and talking on the phone. Eating or drinking can also be a distraction. Using in-vehicle tech and chatting with passengers is also distracting.

State Laws on Distracted Driving

Distracted driving laws in the US are primarily enforced at the state level. This results in variations across different jurisdictions.

While the specifics may differ, most states know the dangers of distracted driving. They have implemented legislation to combat it.

The laws generally fall into two categories: primary enforcement and secondary enforcement. Primary enforcement allows. officers to pull drivers over for distracted driving. They can do this even if no other traffic offense has occurred.

States with secondary enforcement laws require officers to have an additional reason. For example, if a driver is speeding.

Types of Distracted Driving Laws

Many states have laws that prohibit drivers from using handheld devices while driving. These laws include making phone calls, texting, and emailing. Hands-free devices are often allowed, provided they don’t interfere with safe driving.

In several states, specific restrictions apply to novice drivers. For example, those with a learner’s permit or bus drivers. These restrictions often include a complete ban on handheld device use while driving.

Bus drivers have a responsibility to keep their passengers face. That’s why a complete ban is necessary for them.

Consequences of Violating Distracted Driving Laws

Penalties for violating distracted driving laws vary by state. They can include fines, penalty points, and license suspension. They may also include driver improvement courses and jail time in severe cases.

Repeated offenses often result in steeper penalties. If a driver has too many penalties, they may lose their license. This is because they are unfit to drive.

Moreover, distracted driving violations can have broader implications beyond legal consequences. They can lead to an increased risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Distracted driving compromises the driver’s safety and the safety of other road users.

Promoting Awareness and Education

Many campaigns exist to raise awareness about the risks of distracted driving. These efforts aim to inform the public, about the dangers of distracted driving. They promote responsible behavior on the road.

Some organizations have developed tools and features to combat distracted driving. These include smartphone apps that block certain functions while driving. They also include in-vehicle systems that restrict device usage

Advanced driver-assistance technologies also exist that detect distractions and provide alerts.

Is Texting and Driving Illegal?

The advent of smartphones has revolutionized the way people stay connected with others. But, this advancement has also brought about several concerns in terms of road safety.

One of the most prominent issues is the act of texting and driving. This poses a significant risk to both drivers and pedestrians.

In the United States, the dangers associated with texting and driving have prompted legislation to address this issue. That’s why it’s illegal in many states.

By searching for a “local accident attorney near me,” you can find out more information about texting and driving and your legal rights. Feel free to contact an attorney even if you just have questions about safe driving apps or your legal responsibilities on the road.

Legal Framework

Across the United States, laws about texting and driving vary from state to state. Many states have enacted legislation to prohibit or restrict texting while driving.

Laws change over time, so it’s vital to check the most recent legislation in your specific state. Driving apps can provide. updates on driver laws. depending on which state you’re in.

Illegal Acts and Restrictions

Texting and driving laws focus on composing, sending, or reading texts while driving. These laws usually encompass various forms of digital communication. They can include text messages, emails, instant messages, and social media interactions.

However, there’s no need to worry about using driving apps in terms of the law. Turn on the app before you drive so you don’t have to use your phone during your journey. You should avoid pressing in-app buttons while actively on the road.

Some states have adopted a complete ban on handheld device use while driving. Drivers must use hands-free technology to operate their devices if they wish to communicate while on the road.

Penalties and Consequences

Driving apps are often full of information about the penalties you could face for distracted driving. Penalties for texting and driving violations also vary across states. However, they generally involve fines or license suspensions.

Moreover, the consequences of texting and driving extend beyond legal ramifications. Engaging in this dangerous practice increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Distracted driving, including texting while behind the wheel, is a leading cause of road accidents. The impacts can be devastating for everyone involved.

If you use an safe driving app, it may record your phone usage during a journey. If you have an accident that is a result of using your phone while driving, you may face legal consequences.

Safe Driving Apps Make You a Better Driver

As technology continues to advance, it is essential to leverage the power of mobile apps to enhance road safety. The promotion of responsible driving must be encouraged through safe driving apps. With features designed to prevent distracted driving these apps play a crucial role in creating a safer driving environment.

By incorporating these apps into our driving routines and embracing their potential, road safety is improved and fewer accidents occur.

If you liked this article, make sure to check out others similar to it on our homepage.

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Extraction 2 (2023) Review

“Extraction 2” Teaser Poster

“Extraction 2” Teaser Poster

Director: Sam Hargrave
Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Golshifteh Farahani, Adam Bessa, Olga Kurylenko, Daniel Bernhardt, Tinatin Dalakishvili, Idris Elba, Andro Japaridze, Levan Saginashvili
Running Time: 122 min. 

By Paul Bramhall

In the closing scene of 2020’s Extraction, we saw Chris Hemsworth riddled with bullets and left for dead in Bangladesh, falling from a bridge into the river below to sail away into the great beyond. Except, Extraction is an action movie, and if there’s one thing the action genre has taught us, it’s that you can’t keep a good guy down. From Jason Statham in Crank to Scott Adkins in The Debt Collector, comparatively getting hit by a few bullets and plummeting to your supposed death is one of the more plausible comebacks in recent times, and sure enough 3 years later we have Extraction 2.

Picking up directly after the events of the original, Hemsworth is found washed up on the riverbanks and transferred to Dubai, where he eventually regains consciousness after spending 9 months in a coma. Ushered into retirement by his former teammates, played by a returning Golshifteh Farahani (The Upside) and Adam Bessa (Of Sound Mind) as sibling mercenaries, he’s put up in a remote cabin in the Austrian wilderness. His new peaceful life is soon interrupted though by an agent who turns up on his porch, played by a cameoing Idris Elba (Beast), who offers him a job. Extract a mother and her 2 kids from a prison in Georgia, where they’re being kept against their Continue reading

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

Chris Hemsworth and director Sam Hargrave announce that ‘Extraction 3’ will be coming to Netflix

"Extraction 2" Netflix Poster

“Extraction 2” Netflix Poster

A third follow-up to Netflix’ action film franchise – following 2020’s Extraction and this year’s Extraction 2 – has received a green light from the popular streaming company.

Extraction and Extraction 2 director Sam Hargrave (Unlucky Stars) and leading star Chris Hemsworth (Thor) made the announcement at Netflix’s Tudum event on Saturday, following the June 16 premiere of Extraction 2 (via Variety).

Collectively, the films co-starred Golshifteh Farahani (Extraction), Adam Bessa (Extraction), Daniel Bernhardt (The Matrix Resurrections), Sinead Phelps (Carnival Row), Tinatin Dalakishvili (The Undeclared War), Justin Howell (The Man from Toronto), Golshifteh Farahani (Body of Lies), Olga Kurylenko (Quantum of Solace) and Idris Continue reading

Posted in News |

5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Home Inspection Company

Buying a home is a stressful process and one that everyone has different tips and tricks for. One thing that ends up being an important part of the process for many people is hiring home inspection companies to check out your future home.

But not everyone does this, and some who do end up not getting a full report. Hiring the right company is important — but how do you choose?

We’re here to make your decision easier. Keep reading for five essential questions to ask when you’re choosing a proper home inspection company.

1. What Qualifications Do You Have?

Ask about the qualifications of the inspector that will be performing the inspection, such as their experience and education. Additionally, inquire about any certifications they may have and how regularly they need to be renewed.

If they’re part of an association, make sure to ask about their code of ethics and what their processes entail. Asking the right questions will allow you to pick the most qualified and trustworthy home inspection company and ensure you get an adequate inspection of your home.

2. What Services Do You Offer?

A home inspection includes a visual inspection of the exterior and interior of the house and the grounds, and then a report of the inspection’s findings. Knowing exactly what your home inspection company offers will give you a better understanding of the quality and scope of their service.

Consider asking if the home inspection company offers a glass replacement service. It’s important to ask about what materials they use for replacement and how quickly they can repair and replace any damaged glass. Understanding what services are included in your inspection can be invaluable when it comes to budgeting or making decisions.

3. How Long Have You Been in Business?

We want to make sure they have the experience and knowledge necessary to properly and thoroughly inspect your home. A company that’s been in business for a long time likely has plenty of experience with inspecting residential and commercial properties.

They can bring that extensive knowledge to bear when they evaluate your home. Furthermore, a long-established company has likely built a good reputation among customers in the area and understands the local building codes.

4. Do You Offer a Detailed Written Report?

A detailed report should include more than just a checklist of parts of the property that have been inspected and should include:

  • Explanation of any potential issues
  • Estimated cost of repairs
  • Any photographs taken

This could help illustrate any failure or breakage found during the inspection. It is also important to ask how long it will take to get the report and how much it will cost as these can sometimes vary from company to company.

5. Are You Insured?

The home inspector should be insured by error and omission insurance and general liability insurance to protect you from any potential problems that may arise from their inspection. If they are unable to provide proof of insurance, it is best to look for another option.

Additionally, you should ensure that the coverage they have is up-to-date and adequate. Also, inquire about any additional charges that may have been applied should something be found wrong.

Questions for Choosing a Reputable Home Inspection Company

Finding the right home inspection company is very important. Make sure to ask important questions before hiring a home inspection company, such as their cost and qualifications. For more information on hiring a home inspector, contact your local home inspection company today.

Need more information on how to manage your home? Check out our other articles for more details.

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A Homeowner’s Guide to the Window Replacement Process

Are your windows beginning to show signs of age?

New windows offer a convenient method of improving the look of your house while improving your energy efficiency. They also last a lot longer than standard windows. If you pick high-quality replacement windows, they can last a lifetime.

Are you wondering what to expect in the window replacement process? This guide explains what homeowners can expect when they hire a replacement window company.

Keep reading!

Evaluate if Its Time for Replacement Windows

It is important to evaluate if it is time for replacement windows. You should begin the process by considering the age of the windows and whether the seal of the windows is still intact. If the windows are over 15 years old and show signs of draftiness or disintegration, then it is time to replace them.

You should also check for signs of condensation or moisture developing between the panes of glass. You should inspect their interior and exterior for signs of damage from weather, insects, and impacts, all of which can make them unsuitable for use.

Choose the Best Type of Windows for Your Home

Decide on the best type of windows for your home. The most popular types of windows are single-hung, double-hung, casement, awning, and sliding types. When choosing the best type of window for your home, you should consider factors such as cost, energy efficiency, functionality, and aesthetics.

You should consult with a professional to help you select the best type of window for your particular home and climate. Taking time to thoroughly research the type of window that will best suit your needs and preferences will make sure that you invest in a window that will be an asset to your home for years to come.

Research Qualified Companies to Replace Your Windows

When researching qualified companies to replace your windows, there are a few things to consider. You want to find a company with a good reputation and a track record of successful window replacement projects.

You should also consider the quality of the windows they offer. And make sure that you have a full understanding of the replacement process itself and what it will entail.

Talk to prior customers, if possible, to get feedback on their experience with the company. Researching qualified companies to replace your windows requires diligence and patience. A good company can provide you with a window replacement project that is both of high quality and safe.

If you are having a hard time where to find a certified company for your new windows replacement, you can visit westlakewindowglass.com for reliable services!

Knowing a Homeowners Guide to the Window Replacement Process

Replacing your windows is a job best left to the professionals. Don’t let the hassle of window replacement deter you from making this important home improvement.

Contact a qualified contractor today to learn more about the window replacement process and start creating a more energy-efficient and aesthetically pleasing home environment.

If you found this post to be helpful, check out the rest of our blogs!

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Men Behind the Sun Trilogy | Blu-ray (Massacre Video)

Men Behind the Sun | Blu-ray (Massacre Video)

In July, U.S.-based label Massacre Video is unleashing the Men Behind the Sun 1-3 Trilogy, a Blu-ray (Region A) series that started with T. F. Mou’s 1988 cult film, Men Behind the Sun (aka Camp 731). All three films come complete with brand new 4k/2K scans from the original camera negatives.

Men Behind the Sun comes with the reputation of being one of the most controversial movies ever made. It holds the distinction of being the first movie to be rated Category III in Hong Kong, has been released in very few territories uncut, was originally banned in Australia, and caused such an outcry in Japan that the director received death threats (to find out just how crazy Continue reading

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

Deal on Fire! The Grandmaster | Blu-ray | Only $8.99 – Expires soon!

The Grandmaster | Blu-ray & DVD (Anchor Bay)

The Grandmaster | Blu-ray & DVD (Anchor Bay)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray Wong Kar Wai’s 2013 masterpiece, The Grandmaster, an epic action feature inspired by the life and times of the legendary Kung Fu master, Ip Man, who mentored Bruce Lee.

The Grandmaster stars Tony Leung Chiu Wai (Seven Warriors), Zhang Ziyi (The Banquet), Chen Chang (Brotherhood of Blades), Song Hye-Kyo (The Crossing), Bruce Leung Siu-Lung (Dragon Lives Again) and Zhao Ben-Shan (Accidental Hero).

The story itself covers all the terrain of both Ip Man films starring Donnie Yen and much, much more. We enter the narrative before the Japanese invasion of China, as Ip Man lives in peace and prosperity with his wife and children. We follow him through the war, and Continue reading

Posted in Deals on Fire!, News |

Unleashed | Blu-ray (Bayview Films)

Unleashed | Blu-ray (Bayview Films)

Unleashed | Blu-ray (Bayview Films)

RELEASE DATE: June 27, 2023

On June 27, 2023, Bayview Films and Orchid Tree Media is releasing the Blu-ray for Unleashed (read our review), a 2020 actioner directed by Ambrose Kwok and Ka Hei Kwok (Ossan’s Love).

After rising through the ranks of the underground boxing scene, Fok Kit (Zhen Feng Sun) forces himself to help his former tutor, Debo (Ken Lo, Police Story 3: Supercop, Drunken Master 2), keep his boxing studio by fighting the street champion. But with the fight being fixed, he loses and must now support his tutor while figuring out his path in the world, leading to a final showdown in the ring to decide his future. In Cantonese with English subtitles.

The film also stars Venus Continue reading

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

‘Boyka: Undisputed’ actor Martyn Fordin joins Simon McQuoid’s sequel to New Line’s ‘Mortal Kombat’ reboot

"Mortal Kombat" Japanese Poste

“Mortal Kombat” Japanese Poste

A sequel to the James Wan-produced reboot of Mortal Kombat, a martial arts-thriller based on the highly-successful video game franchise of the same name, is currently in the works from New Line. And Simon McQuoid, who directed the reboot, will be back in the director’s chair!

New Line has enlisted the writing skills of Jeremy Slater, who is best known for penning Marvel/Disney+ series Moon Knight (via Deadline). The first film was written by Greg Russo (the upcoming Category 6), Dave Callaham (Wonder Woman 1984), with a story by Oren Uziel (The Cloverfield Paradox).

The latest cast additions include Adelin Rudolph (Riverdale) as Kitana; Karl Urban (The Boys, Dredd) as Johnny Cage; Martyn Ford (Boyka: Undisputed) as Shao Kahn; Desmond Chiam (The Falcon and the Winter Soldier) as King Jerrod; Ana Thu Nguyen (The Spy Who Never Dies) as Queen Sindel; and Damon Herriman (Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood) as Quan Chi.

There’s no official word on which cast members of the 2021 reboot will be returning, but it’s safe to assume that all surviving characters will be played by their respective actors.

The 2021 reboot starred Joe Taslim (The Night Comes for Us) as Sub-Zero; Ludi Lin (Black Mirror) as Liu Kang; Sisi Stringer (Bloody Hell) as Mileena; Mehcad Brooks (Glory Road) as Jackson “Jax” Briggs; Tadanobu Asano (Ichi The Killer) as Raiden; Jessica McNamee (The Meg) as Sonya Blade; Josh Lawson (Bombshell) as Kano; Lewis Tan (Deadpool 2); Chin Han (The Dark Knight) as Shang Tsung; Hiroyuki Sanada (Royal Warriors) as Scorpion; Max Huang (Police Story: Lockdown) as Kung Lao; Elissa Cadwell (Aquaman stuntperformer) as Nitara; and Daniel Nelson (Godzilla vs. Kong) as Kabal.

Mortal Kombat 2 hits theaters on October 24, 2025. Until then, we leave you with the Trailer for the 2021 film:

Posted in News |

Born Invincible (1978) Review

"Born Invincible" Theatrical Poster

“Born Invincible” Theatrical Poster

Director: Joseph Kuo
Cast: Mark Long, Jack Long, Carter Wong, Lo Lieh, Nancy Yen, Corey Yuen, Yuen Shun Yee, Lung Fei, Alan Chui, Yuen Sam, Chen Chiu, Chu Siu Wa, Yuen Woo Ping
Running Time: 83 min.

By Ian Whittle

My immediate reaction to Born Invincible is that someone must have put all the actor’s names in a hat before assigning roles… we’ve got regular villain Lung Fei playing the master of the good guys, Jack Long playing a student rather than an old master, and although Lo Lieh is in the cast, he’s not playing the white-haired bad guy with a retractable groin. Nancy Yen was lucky she actually ended up with one of the lady roles!

The film begins with a sort of mini-documentary about Tai Chi… which according to this movie is not a bunch of old people doing morning exercises in the park, but rather a little kid being trained in a technique that will render him virtually invincible. The catch… it will whiten his hair, turn his voice “strange to the ear”, and make him look like Carter Wong.

From there we proceed to the Lei Ping school rescuing an old man and his daughter from the Chin San gang (represented by choreographers Corey Yuen Kwai and Yuen Shun-yi in wigs that resemble old mop rags). Unfortunately for the Lei Ping school, their master is played by Lung Fei, who despite being apparently a good guy is a real liability. He punishes his pupils Continue reading

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

The Roundup: No Way Out (2023) Review

“The Roundup: No Way Out” Theatrical Poster

“The Roundup: No Way Out” Theatrical Poster

Director: Lee Sang-Yong
Cast: Ma Dong-Seok, Lee Joon-Hyuk, Munetaka Aoki, Jun Kunimura, Lee Beom-Soo, Kim Min-jae, Jun Suk-ho, Ko Kyu-phil, Bae Noo-ri, Lee Ji-hoon
Running Time: 105 min.

By Paul Bramhall

The expression “it’s the role he was born to play” may be a cliched one, but its hard to think of a more fitting one when it comes to Ma Dong-seok playing the witty, hammer fisted detective Ma Seok-do. Introduced in 2017’s The Outlaws, which was based on the Heuksapa Incident from the previous decade (an operation which involved busting Chinese gangs), by the time the 2022 sequel arrived in the form of The Roundup, producers were smart enough to figure out that Dong-seok was the selling point. For the 2nd time around there was no ‘based on real life’ setting, instead pitting Dong-seok against a vicious Korean criminal extorting other expats residing in Vietnam. The Roundup successfully ramped up everything that worked so well in the original to 11, to the point that 2 more instalments were immediately green lit to go into production.

How to top the adrenaline pumping entertainment Dong-seok’s sophomore outing as a one-man human wrecking ball delivered is a legitimate question to ask, and in The Roundup: No Way Out it becomes apparent very quickly that the most obvious, and possibly only answer, is to offer up more of the same. Not unexpectedly, this turns out to be the 3rd instalments biggest strength, as well as its biggest weakness. While certain scenes in The Roundup that felt familiar to The Outlaws got a pass because it had been 5 years between their respective releases, here the returning Continue reading

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Asian Sports Betting Movies: Stories of Gambling Adventures on the Big Screen

The Asian cinema landscape has always been ripe with diversity, painting a rich tableau of narratives that traverse genres and themes. These films transport us into the thrilling realm of high-stakes wagers, clever strategies, and the unpredictable twists of fate that can change a character’s life in an instant. From the gritty underworld of illegal bookmakers to the glitz and glamour of elite casinos, these movies explore the allure and dangers of gambling, while also showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Asia. 

So, grab your popcorn and join us as we dive into some of the most captivating sports betting movies from the East, where dreams can be won or lost with the roll of the dice or the flip of a card.

Cinematic Blend of Sports and Betting: From Shaolin Soccer to Our Shining Days

Shaolin Soccer

Asian sports betting movies combine human emotions, smart choices, and the unexpected nature of gambling. A perfect example is “Shaolin Soccer,” a film that mixes comedy, sports, and a touch of fantasy. It shows soccer mixed with Shaolin Kung Fu, creating an entertaining and colorful show. This cult classic is not only fun to watch but also gives a glimpse into the unpredictable world of sports events, similar to sports betting. The movie highlights that both in sports and betting, surprises are always around the corner, making it a must-see for sports betting fans.

In this digital era, one can partake in the excitement of sports betting from virtually anywhere, thanks to the emergence of online platforms. Among these, Caesars New Jersey sportsbook stands as a prime example. This platform provides a secure, well-regulated environment for sports betting enthusiasts, boasting an extensive range of betting options and sports events. It serves as a personal portal into the riveting world portrayed in sports betting movies like “Shaolin Soccer.”

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https://unsplash.com/photos/MS_RP-Lba0U

Our Shining Days

Centered around the captivating world of traditional Chinese music, “Our Shining Days” narrates the story of a dedicated group of girls aiming to preserve their cultural heritage. They find themselves in a competition against the popular Western music department, setting the stage for an underdog story filled with tension, passion, and unexpected triumphs. Although it doesn’t directly explore sports betting, the movie embodies the same elements – high stakes, fierce competition, and unpredictable outcomes. This parallel between the film’s plot and the nature of sports betting underscores the palpable tension and thrill inherent in both realms.

Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior

Asian sports betting transcends the traditional sports realm, venturing into the exhilarating domain of martial arts, as exemplified by “Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior.” This cinematic gem brings to the forefront Thailand’s most cherished sport, Muay Thai, intertwining it with an immersive cultural history and raw, high-octane fights. It’s these thrilling battles, fraught with unpredictability, that transform the sport into a fertile ground for betting, offering a roller coaster of emotions akin to those experienced by sports bettors.

The film’s protagonist, Ting, a humble yet formidable warrior, embarks on a mission to retrieve a stolen religious artifact, employing his unmatched Muay Thai skills. The intense fights and dramatic plot twists mirror the thrilling, high-stakes nature of sports betting.

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Match Point

Lastly, diverging from the Asian focus yet adding a fresh twist to the genre is “Match Point,” a film that presents a unique exploration of luck, ambition, and ethical quandaries within the framework of a tennis match.

The plot centers around Chris, a retired tennis pro who climbs the social ladder by marrying into an upper-class family. However, his life takes a turbulent turn when he gets entangled in an affair, leading to a gripping game of luck and morality. Much like the unpredictable world of sports betting, “Match Point” showcases how fortune can swing dramatically, creating an enthralling narrative reminiscent of the high-stakes, suspenseful nature of betting.

While the movie hails from outside Asia, it expands the sports and betting narrative, contributing an international perspective to the genre and demonstrating the universal allure of the sports betting ethos.

Conclusion

Films centered around sports betting in Asia provide a captivating mix of cultural richness, emotional storytelling, and the electrifying excitement that accompanies uncertain results. These movies capture the very core of sports betting – the exhilaration of making informed gambles and the hopeful anticipation of potentially securing significant winnings. Platforms like Caesars New Jersey sportsbook help to transform these on-screen adventures into tangible real-world betting experiences. 

From the high-stakes world of Shaolin soccer to the intense realm of Muay Thai battles, these cinematic tales allow audiences to delve into the intricacies and rewards of sports betting, leaving a lasting impression that’s difficult to shake off.

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