Here’s a list of highlighted titles (and trailers) from the 2023 HK International Film and TV Market (Filmart) trade show

The following are highlighted titles that were presented at The 2023 Hong Kong International Film and TV Market (Filmart) trade show. The event, which is currently taking place on March 13th through March 16th, is Asia’s leading entertainment content marketplace. We’ll keep this list updated as the event unfolds!

New Police Story 2: Emperor Motion Pictures presents New Police Story 2, which will star Nicholas Tse (Raging Fire), Jackie Chan (Vanguard) and Charlene Choi (New Police Story). Tse is also directing and Chan is producing. New Police Story 2 is a direct sequel to Benny Chan’s 2004 film.

Breaking Point: Emperor Motion Pictures/Bona presents Breaking Point (爆裂点), a Dante Lam (Operation Red Sea) produced thriller starring Nick Cheung (Warriors of Future), William Chan (As the Light Goes Out) and Isabella Continue reading

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Watch the Trailer for the Johnnie To-produced ‘Mad Fate’ from ‘SPL II’ director Soi Cheang starring Gordon Lam

"Mad Fate" Theatrical Poster

“Mad Fate” Theatrical Poster

Filmmaker Soi Cheang Pou Soi (Limbo, SPL II) and producer Johnnie To (Trivisa, Running on Karma) return with Mad Fate, an upcoming mystery-thriller starring Gordon Lam Ka-Tung (Hand Rolled Cigarette, The Brink).

Mad Fate is the story is about a fortune teller who meets a young man who has this really strong desire to commit murder. So, whether it’s for his own redemption or to save the kid, he really wants to change the course of fate. And in that process, they end up sort of changing each other, said Cheang (via Variety).

The film also stars Peter Chan Charm-man (Tales from the Occult), Berg Ng Ting-yip (The White Storm), Wing Sze Ng (All U Need is Love) and Continue reading

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God of Gamblers | Blu-ray (88 Films)

God of Gamblers | Blu-ray (88 Films)

God of Gamblers | Blu-ray (88 Films)

RELEASE DATE: May 1, 2023

On May 1, 2023, 88 Films will be releasing a Blu-ray (Region B) for God of Gamblers, Wong Jing’s 1989 Hong Kong action-comedy classic that stars Chow Yun Fat (Hard Boiled, Project Gutenberg), Andy Lau (The White Storm 2: Drug Lords, The Last Blood) and Joey Wong (City Hunter, The Big Heat).

Ko Chun is the greatest high-roller in the world, king of the casino and as cool as only an in-his-prime Chow Yun-fat can be. But that’s before a nasty head injury renders him mentally disabled. After being befriended by unscrupulous hustler ‘Knife’ (golden-throated Canto-Pop king Andy Lau), it is discovered that, despite his other impairments, Ko’s unerring instincts for gambling remain intact. Knife thinks he’s on to a sure thing but Continue reading

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

Deal on Fire! John Wick: Chapters 1-3 | 4K UHD | Only $24.99 – Expires soon!

John Wick: Chapters 1-3 | 4K + Digital (Lionsgate)

John Wick: Chapters 1-3 | 4K + Digital (Lionsgate)

Today’s Deal on Fire is for John Wick: Chapters 1-3 on 4K + Digital. This set includes Chad Stahelski’s John Wick, John Wick: Chapter 2 and John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum in one collection.

John Wick: When sadistic young thugs senselessly attack John Wick — a brilliantly lethal ex-assassin — they have no idea that they’ve just awakened the boogeyman. With New York City as his bullet-riddled playground, Wick embarks on a merciless rampage, hunting down his adversaries with the skill and ruthlessness that made him an underworld legend.

John Wick: Chapter 2: Legendary hit man John Wick is forced out of retirement again by a former associate plotting to seize control of a shadowy international assassins’ guild. Bound Continue reading

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Code of the Assassins (2022) Review

"Code of the Assassins" Theatrical Poster

“Code of the Assassins” Theatrical Poster

AKA: Song of the Assassins
Director: Daniel Lee Yan-Kong
Cast: William Feng Shaofeng, Gina Jin Chen, Zhang Hao, Hu Jun, Summer Xu Qing, Wang Qing-Xiang, Kenneth Tsang, Ray Lui, Norman Tsui, Jack Kao Kuo-Hsin
Running Time: 119 min. 

By Paul Bramhall

After a long and arduous journey, in 2022 Code of the Assassins finally made it to the screen. Filming started way back in 2017 with grand plans to include an accompanying drama series and multiple sequels proposed, however various strife inside production company Le Vision Pictures resulted in its release being delayed, confounded further by the CEO passing away in early 2021. The original plans for a theatrical release were ultimately canned, and in the end it debuted to minimum fanfare in the overcrowded VOD market 5 years after cameras started to roll. 

Director Daniel Lee likely needs no introduction to fans of Hong Kong cinema, having remained one of the most divisive talents since his debut with 1994’s What Price Survival, a re-imagining of The One Armed Swordsman. His preference for highly stylised MTV influenced editing often sees him accused of style over substance, and he’s hardly the strongest storyteller when it comes to an engaging narrative, however his name rightly comes up in any discussion Continue reading

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Tips on How to Budget for Beginners

Whatever your financial situation, budgeting can help you plan for the future and to ensure that you’re spending money wisely.

Sounds good, doesn’t it? Yet, as one of the foremost experts in personal finance, Dave Ramsey, puts it, “Budgeting takes more emotional strength than any other part of financial freedom.”

Budgeting isn’t easy, especially if you haven’t done it before. However, by putting a plan in place, you can start to see improvements in your financial situation pretty quickly.

If you’d like to know more, read our tips on how to budget below.

Establish Your Financial Goals

Without clear goals, you may struggle to stay on track and keep within your spending limits. To start, print or write out a list of your short and long-term goals.

Focus on concrete goals such as “save for a down payment on a house” or “launch my own business”. Figure out the timeline for reaching each goal, the estimated cost, and how much money can be saved each month. To make sure your goals are realistic, compare them to last month’s expenses.

Analyze Your Income & Expenses

Evaluate the sources of your monthly income, including wages, investments, rental income, etc. Then examine your expenses, including rent/mortgage, car payments, living expenses, etc. This will help you understand your financial situation and set proper goals to work towards.

Once you have a clear financial picture, you can develop a budget. Look for potential areas of savings and set up a plan for spending and savings that you can stick to.

To reduce your loan debt, avoid creating added debt and make sure you make on-time payments. If you’re struggling to pay off your loans, consider loan debt relief. There is also loan consolidation and refinancing to help reduce the amount of interest you are paying.

Track Your Spending Habits

Knowing where your money is going will help you stay on track and give you a better understanding of where you can cut back. To begin, write down everything you spend money on for one week. It doesn’t need to be in-depth. Just record the type of purchase, price, and merchant.

At the end of the week, look at how much you spent. If you’re over your budget, start coming up with strategies for reallocating your spending. Such as making your coffee rather than buying it at a shop. You can adjust your budget from there.

Utilizing Technology to Help Budget

Budgeting apps are great tools to help track spending, build budgets and set goals to stay within a budget. For larger expenses like car payments, credit cards, or home loans, try using automated payments to ensure that bills are always paid on time.

Try setting up alerts for your bank account or credit card balances so you can stay within the liquid limit or credit limits. As any money management will inevitably require some work, setting up calendar alerts or notifications for budget or spending-related tasks can help keep you focused and on track.

Use These Tips on How to Budget  Today

Budgeting should be easy. Following these tips on how to budget can help new budgeters understand the basics and get started on the right track. Don’t hesitate to investigate different budgeting methods.

Experiment with different strategies until you find one that works for you. Start taking control of your finances and start your journey to financial freedom today!

Keep scrolling to discover more tips on this blog.

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Manchurian Tiger, The (1974) Review

"The Manchurian Tiger" Theatrical Poster

“The Manchurian Tiger” Theatrical Poster

Director: Lee Doo-Yong
Cast: Han Yong-cheol, Kim Mun-ju, Bae Su-chun, Woo Yeon-jeong, Chang Il-sik, Park Dong-ryong, Sim Sang Chun, Gang Dong-gyu, Choe Sung-kwan
Running Time: 95 min. 

By Paul Bramhall

Looking back on the evolution of martial arts cinema over the years, there’s little doubt that it was the 1970’s when the genre evolved at such a rate that, if you put a production from 1970 and 1979 side-by-side, it looks like there’s far more than just 10 years between them. From both the complexity and style of the choreography, to the faces behind and in front of the camera, each year could be regarded as significant in its own way. 1974 was no different. In Hong Kong director Chang Cheh kicked off his Shaolin Cycle with the release of Heroes Two, while in Japan Sonny Chiba unleashed Takuma Tsurugi onto the world with The Streetfighter. One country that frequently gets overlooked when discussing the evolution of martial arts cinema though is Korea, and during the same year we’d also get what can be considered the first taekwondo based martial arts flick in the form of The Manchurian Tiger.

A whole 2 years before Hong Kong producer Ng See-Yuen would realise the potential of taekwondo’s aesthetically pleasing repertoire of kicks by introducing Hwang Jang Lee and John Liu to the world through The Secret Rivals, Korea was already cranking out its own brand of taekwondo-based action. For a fleeting time it looked like the Korean Continue reading

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Watch Cinedigm’s Trailer for Yasuhiko Shimizu’s Japanese remake of the 1997 cult thriller ‘Cube’

"Cube" Theatrical Poster

“Cube” Theatrical Poster

Later this year, U.S. label Cinedigm will be releasing the Blu-ray for Cube, a Japanese sci-fi thriller directed by Yasuhiko Shimizu (Vise). The film is a remake of Vincenzo Natali’s 1997 cult film of the same name.

In Cube, a group of strangers wake up in mysterious room inscribed with an unfamiliar code. Looking for ways to escape, they discover the room is riddled with lethal traps. As fear and distrust swirl around them, the group must work together to survive.

The film stars Masaki Suda (Gintama), Masaki Okada (Drive My Car), Takumi Saitoh (13 Assassins), Anne Watanabe (Tell It Like a Woman) and Kotaro Yoshida (The Third Murder).

Don’t miss the film’s Continue reading

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Ana de Armas and Chris Evans take on ‘Bruce Lee’ actor Mike Moh in the Trailer for ‘Ghosted’ from ‘Rocketman’ director

“Ghosted” Apple TV+ Poster

“Ghosted” Apple TV+ Poster

If you’ve seen Ana de Armas’ butt-kicking capabilities in the latest 007 film, No Time To Die – as well as her upcoming John Wick spinoff, Ballerina – you know she’s capable of leading her own action film, and that’s just what she does in Ghosted, an upcoming action-comedy from director, Dexter Fletcher (Rocketman).

Cole (Chris Evans) falls head over heels for enigmatic Sadie (De Armas) — but then makes the shocking discovery that she’s a secret agent. Before they can decide on a second date, Cole and Sadie are swept away on an international adventure to save the world (via Deadline).

Ghosted also stars Adrien Brody (The Pianist), Amy Sedaris (Elf) as well as martial arts star, Mike Moh, who portrayed Bruce Lee in Quentin Continue reading

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Third Window Films’ Blu-ray for Sogo Ishii’s ‘Electric Dragon 80.000 V’ is now available from Goodie Emporium

"Electric Dragon 80.000 V" Theatrical Poster

“Electric Dragon 80.000 V” Theatrical Poster

Third Window Films’ Blu-ray (Region B) release for Gakuryu Ishii’s Electric Dragon 80.000 V is now available!

Directed by Gakuryu Ishii (Crazy Thunder Road), this 2002 cult classic stars Tadanobu Asano (Ichi the Killer, Kate), Yoshiki Arizono (Ichi the Killer), Masakatsu Funaki (Godzilla: Final Wars) and Masatoshi Nagase (Mystery Train).

Electric Dragon 80.000 V revolves around a violent, guitar-playing, electrically charged boxer who faces off against an electronic wizard half-merged with a metallic Buddha.

This title is currently available at The Goodie Emporium, a U.S.-based online store that currently has many Import Shaw Brothers/Golden Harvest/martial arts DVD/Blu-ray movies in-stock – with New titles Continue reading

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3 Tips for Buying Ammunition

Are you a gun owner, or are you considering owning a gun? When it comes to purchasing ammunition, there are a few things to consider to ensure you’re getting the right type for your firearm and intended use.

From knowing the different types of ammo to shopping at reputable stores, these three tips will help you buy ammunition with confidence. Read on to learn more about buying ammunition and being a responsible owner!

1. Understanding the Different Types of Ammunition

Before you buy ammunition, it’s essential to understand the different types available. For example, there are handgun, rifle, and shotgun rounds, and each has a unique purpose. Handgun rounds are often used for self-defense, target shooting, or hunting small game.

Rifle rounds, meanwhile, are used for hunting larger game, and long-range shooting. It can also be used for military and law enforcement operations. Shotgun rounds are often used for hunting birds and other small game, as well as for home defense.

Within each type of ammunition, there are also variations in the size, shape, and material of the bullet or shot. For example, handgun rounds can be either rimfire or centerfire, while rifle rounds come in different calibers and weights.

Shotgun rounds come in different gauges, such as 12-gauge or 20-gauge. These also have different types of shots, including birdshot, buckshot, and slug. By understanding the different types of ammo, you can select the right ammunition for your firearm and intended use.

2. Shop at Reputable Stores

When buying ammunition, it’s crucial to shop at reputable stores that sell quality products. Avoid purchasing ammo from unknown or untrustworthy sources, as their products may be of lower quality or even dangerous.

One way to ensure you’re buying ammunition from a reputable source is to research the store’s reputation before buying. Look for reviews and ratings from other customers to see what their experiences have been like.

You can also check if the store has any certifications or affiliations with trusted organizations. Additionally, consider shopping at specialty stores that focus specifically on firearms and ammunition.

These stores often have knowledgeable staff who can answer your questions. And, they can help you select the right type of ammunition that you can buy here for your firearm and intended use.

3. Check the Ammo Box

When you’re ready to buy ammunition, be sure to check the box for important information about the product. The box should include details such as the caliber or gauge, bullet or shot weight, and the number of rounds in the box.

It’s also essential to look for any warning labels or safety information on the box. This information can help you understand how to handle the ammunition safely and avoid any accidents or injuries. Finally, check the condition of the ammunition before purchasing it.

Ensure that the box is sealed and undamaged and that the ammunition inside looks clean and free of defects. If you notice any issues with the ammunition or packaging, consider purchasing a different box or buying from a different store.

Be Knowledgeable When Buying Ammunition

Buying ammunition can seem overwhelming, but by understanding the different types of ammo, shopping at reputable stores, and checking the ammo box, you can make informed purchases with confidence.

Remember, safety should always be a top priority when handling firearms and ammunition, so take the time to learn how to handle and store your ammunition safely.

With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your shooting sports and outdoor activities with peace of mind.

For more tips and guides, visit our blog today!

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Head Rush | aka Lôi Báo (2017) Review

"Head Rush" Promotional Poster

“Head Rush” Promotional Poster

AKA: Lôi Báo
Director: Victor Vu
Cast: Cuong Seven, Tran Thi Nha Phuong, Quach Ngoc Ngoan, Ngoc Anh Vu, Jason Ninh Cao
Running Time: 107 min.

By Paul Bramhall

There was a time in the mid-late 2000’s when it seemed like Vietnam was going to be the next big thing when it came to action filmmaking in Asia. After briefly facing off against Tony Jaa in 2005’s Tom Yum Goong, former U.S. wushu team member Johnny Tri Nguyen headed for the homeland and made an immediate impression with his starring turns in 2007’s The Rebel and 2009’s Clash. Things came to a grinding halt though when the governments film censorship board banned the 2013 gangster movie Chinatown, of which Nguyen was also the star, believing that it didn’t cast the country in a favourable light. A decade on and it still hasn’t seen the light of day, and the decision felt like it put the brakes on the momentum that Vietnam was building in the action genre.

The result saw Nguyen step away from action roles all together, and since then what was hoped to be an opening of the floodgates has become little more than a trickle. During the 2010’s the only notable output was reduced to middle of the road actioners like Tracer (2016) and Furie (2019), with the occasional anomaly like the Andy Long action showcase Luc Van Tien: Tuyet Dinh Kungfu (2017). Lôi Báo was another production which hit local cinemas in 2017, and thanks to a renewed interest in Asian action cinema during recent years, was picked up by U.S distributor Glass House Continue reading

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What Are the Main Types of Cannabinoids?

The cannabis industry continues to be of great interest to many individuals. This is because of the potential medical applications that come with it.

However, many are not really aware of the various types of cannabinoids. Many only think of THC and CBD when it comes to cannabinoids. But, there are other types of cannabinoids out there.

Are you interested in learning more about the various types of cannabinoids? If so, then read on, and we’ll go over everything that you need to know about them.

Cannabigerol 

Cannabigerol (CBG) is found in very small amounts, usually ranging from 0.5 – 2.0% of the dry weight of the cannabis plant. But it has been growing in popularity due to its potential therapeutic benefits.

It’s unique and can interact with both our endocannabinoid and serotonin receptors. It makes a potentially powerful tool against a wide range of conditions. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help relieve pain and reduce swelling.

Cannabidiol

CBD is the most abundant cannabinoid and is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not get you “high.” It’s used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including:

  • Seizures
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Chronic pain
  • Autism
  • Depression

It can be found in many products, including oils, capsules, tinctures, and edibles.

Tetrahydrocannabinol

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most abundant chemical compound and psychoactive constituent in cannabis, responsible for the plant’s characteristic effects. THC has a number of medical benefits and is used by many medical marijuana patients.

Trulieve is a medical marijuana company with a mission to provide patients with access to the safest, most effective cannabis products. They offer several products containing THC, including oils, capsules, tinctures, and topicals.

Products varied in THC concentrations, allowing patients to choose the dose that works best for their needs. Lab results are available for all Trulieve products, giving patients assurance of quality and consistency. Trulieve is dedicated to providing access to natural relief, and its products containing THC are among the most popular for medical marijuana patients.

Cannabinol 

Cannabinol, or CBN, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found within the cannabis plant. Like its better-known cousin, THC, Cannabinol is an organic molecule that binds to cannabinoid receptors within the body.

The effects are far milder than those of THC, producing only subtle relaxation and mild euphoria. Cannabinol is also known to act as a sedative and to promote sleep.

In addition to its therapeutic effects, it also has some very unique medical applications. It’s shown to reduce intraocular pressure, indicating it may have the potential to treat glaucoma.

It also indicates it may be beneficial in reducing inflammation, pain, and nausea. It has even been associated with slowing the proliferation of bacterial colonies, suggesting the potential for use in the pharmaceutical industry.

Learn More About the Different Types of Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are the lifeblood of the cannabis plant, giving it a variety of uses. There are so many types of cannabinoids, THC and CBD, and an array of other active and non-active cannabinoids.

With all these cannabinoids have to offer, it is easy to see why cannabis is gaining in popularity. Explore all that cannabis has to offer today and experience its full benefits!

Did you find this article helpful? Visit more of our blogs!

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Golgo 13 | Blu-ray (Discotek Media)

Golgo 13 | Blu-ray (Discotek Media)

Golgo 13 | Blu-ray (Discotek Media)

RELEASE DATE: May 30, 2023

On May 30, 2023, Discotek Media is releasing the Blu-ray for Golgo 13, a 1973 actioner directed by Junya Sato (1975’s The Bullet Train) and starring Ken Takakura (The Yakuza).

This upcoming release marks its first official English-language home video release, and its first time on Blu-ray anywhere.

Based on Takao Saito’s popular Manga and Anime of the same name, Takakura stars as Golgo 13, a professional assassin for hire (Note: In 1977, Sonny Chiba starred in his own live-action adaptation, Golgo 13: Assignment Kowloon)

The action is bloody and advanced for the time, with the gunfights especially Continue reading

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

American Genre Film Archive to release Blu-ray for classic kung fu rarities ‘Shaolin Invincibles’ and ‘Seven to One’

Shaolin Invincibles & Seven to One | Blu-ray (AGFA)

Shaolin Invincibles & Seven to One | Blu-ray (AGFA)

In March, Shaolin Invincibles & Seven to One | Blu-ray AGFA/Vinegar Syndrome is releasing a Blu-ray collection for 1977’s Shaolin Invincibles and 1973’s Seven to One.

Collectively, the films are directed by Hau Chang (Furious Monk from Shaolin) and star Carter Huang (The Skyhawk), Chia Ling (Lady Karate), Dorian Tan Tao Liang (The Eight Escorts) and Chen Hung Lieh (Fantasy Mission Force), Polly Shang-Kwan (The Ghost Hill), Yasuaki Kurata (The Empty Hands) and Bruce Leung Siu Lung (Kung Fu League).

Official details:

A gonzo martial arts double feature from the vaults of the American Genre Film Archive (AGFA)!

Shaolin Invincibles – Wizards! Gorillas! Bloodsplurts! You’ve never seen a Taiwanese Continue reading

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