The bad boy of Indie action films is back! Watch the gritty New Trailer for Leroy Nguyen’s ‘The Brokenhearted’

"The Brokenhearted" Teaser Poster

“The Brokenhearted” Teaser Poster

Indie filmmaker Leroy Nguyen – writer, director and star of the gritty festival favorites Black Scar Blues and Silverback – will soon return with The Brokenhearted, his latest upcoming action thriller from Rising Tiger Films and 02 Hero Media.

The Brokenhearted also stars Samuel Joon Lee, Jackie Kim, Travis Davis, Gene Rush and Alex Au.

If you’re not familiar with his work, Nguyen’s influences are taken from the likes of Martin Scorsese, Takeshi Kitano and Nicolas Winding Refn. He’s known for his raw, gritty style of choreographed action, tucked between emotional storylines that follow flawed, but relatable characters.

Look out for The Brokenhearted soon. Until then, don’t miss the film’s New Continue reading

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Super Power (1980) Review

"Super Power" Theatrical Poster

“Super Power” Theatrical Poster

Director: Lin Chan-Wai
Cast: Billy Chong, Hau Chiu-Sing, Chiang Tao, Ho Kei-Cheong, Annie Liu On Lai, Lau Dan, Fung Ging-Man, Wong Chi-Ming, Wang Han-Chen, Lau Hok-Nin
Running Time: 95 min.

By Paul Bramhall

In the late 70’s production house The Eternal Film Co. must have felt like they struck gold by signing on Indonesian martial artist and local movie fixture Billy Chong. While Chong had shown hints of what he was capable of in the likes of Black Belt Karate (a rare chance to see him in full on Bruceploitation mode!) and Invincible Monkey Fist, it was once he arrived in Hong Kong that his physical talents were fully exploited. After launching his HK career in 1979 with the Drunken Master clone Crystal Fist and Sun Dragon, Chong kicked off the 80’s with Super Power. I’m sure at the time it must have seemed like Chong was going to be a permanent fixture in Hong Kong action cinema for the upcoming decade, however rumours of being difficult to work with and an over inflated ego saw him back in Indonesia by the end of 1983 (the less said about his attempted HK comeback in 1989’s Aces Go Places V: The Terracotta Hit, the better).

The 7 movies he headlined over the 5 years he spent in HK under The Eternal Film Co. are all bonafide classics though, and whatever high regard Chong held himself in, it was at least a quality which was also reflected onscreen. In many ways Super Power can be seen as the production which fully banked on him as a leading man, no longer relying on the Continue reading

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Star Wars-sploitation? Eureka’s Blu-ray for Kinji Fukasaku’s sci-fi action adventure ‘Message From Space’ is now shipping!

Message From Space | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Message From Space | Blu-ray (Eureka)

Now available from Goodie Emporium is Eureka’s Blu-ray (Region B) for Message From Space, a 1978 sci-fi thriller from Kinji Fukasaku (Battle Royale, New Battles Without Honor and Humanity: Last Days of the Boss) that’s basically Toei Company’s answer to the barnstorming box-office success that was Star Wars.

The film features an all-star cast that includes Sonny Chiba (Wolf Guy: Enraged Lycanthrope), Vic Morrow (Twilight Zone: The Movie), Etsuko Shihomi (Soul of Chiba) and many more!

Somewhere in a far flung galaxy lies the planet of Jillucia. Once a peaceful utopia, it has now fallen under the control of the Gavanas Empire, a warlike race ruled by the ruthless Emperor Rockseia (Mikio Narita). Desperate for help, the leader of Continue reading

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Red, Blue or YAKUZA? Watch the Teaser Trailer for Masaharu Take’s Live-action adaptation of ‘Yakuza: Like a Dragon’

"Like a Dragon" Amazon Prime Poster

“Like a Dragon” Amazon Prime Poster

Amazon’s Prime Video is set to stream Like a Dragon, an upcoming six-part, live-action series based on the SEGA videogame franchise, Yakuza: Like a Dragon.

The series – directed by Masaharu Take (100 Yen Love) and Takimoto Kengo (Kamen Teacher) – is set in two time periods, 1995 and 2005, and follows the life, childhood friends and the repercussions of the decisions of a fearsome and peerless Yakuza warrior (Takeuchi Ryoma, Kamen Rider Drive: Surprise Future) with a strong sense of justice, duty, and humanity (via Variety).

The screenplay and story are by Sean Crouch (Wolf Pack) and Yugo Continue reading

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Deal on Fire! The Miracle Fighters | Blu-ray | Only $19.99 – Expires soon!

The Miracle Fighters | Bu-ray (Eureka)

The Miracle Fighters | Bu-ray (Eureka)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray (Region A/B) for The Miracle Fighters, a 1982 kung fu fantasy classic from the legendary choreographer/director Yuen Woo-ping (Dreadnaught, In the Line of Duty 4).

Hailed as one of the “weirdest” kung fu/fantasy movies to be distributed under the Golden Harvest banner – and certainly shouldn’t be confused or compared with Tsui Hark’s seminal masterpiece Zu Warriors from the Magic Mountain (also 1982) – The Miracle Fighters is an octane fueled tale of despotism, ego-based ambition and insanely cerebral magical practices. Again using Yin/Yang metaphors, Ping’s physical depictions of Chinese occultism is clearly defined by both ‘light’ and ‘dark’ forces, regardless of its signature trappings or banal dialogue. Its true magical sturdiness lies in the picture’s motion and fluidity, not in the Continue reading

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Magnificent Bodyguards | Blu-ray (88 Films)

RELEASE DATE: September 23, 2024

On September 23, 2024, 88 Films is releasing the Blu-ray (Region A/B) for Magnificent Bodyguards, a 1978 kung fu classic directed by Lo Wei (The Big Boss) that stars Jackie Chan (Hidden Strike, Ride On).

Jackie leaps out of the screen in Magnificent Bodyguards, the first Hong Kong movie shot in 3D! The icon joins a team of guards who are escorting an ill man across a land Continue reading

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Illegal aliens! Choi Dong-hoon’s sci-fi actioner ‘Alienoid: The Return to the Future’ warps onto Blu-ray next week

Alienoid: The Return to the Future | Blu-ray (Well Go USA)

Alienoid: The Return to the Future | Blu-ray (Well Go USA)

On July 30, 2024, Well Go USA is releasing the Blu-ray & DVD for Alienoid: The Return to the Future (read our review), the sequel to 2022’s Alienoid. This South Korean sci-fi/fantasy action film is once again directed by Choi Dong-hoon, who is perhaps best known for 2012’s The Thieves and 2015’s Assassination.

Returning stars in Alienoid: The Return to the Future (aka Alienoid: Part 2) include Ryoo Joon-Yeol (Believer), Kim Woo-Bin (Friend 2) and Kim Tae-Ri (Space Sweepers).

The film series (read our review for Alienoid) are a tale of two eras that follow two Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392) gurus seeking a legendary, time-bending blade as they unexpectedly cross paths with modern-era people hunting down a dangerous alien Continue reading

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J-Horror Rising Collection | Blu-ray (Arrow)

RELEASE DATE: October 28, 2024

On October 28, 2024, Arrow is releasing the J-Horror Rising collection on Blu-ray, which will include 1999’s Shikoku, 2000’s Isola: Multiple Personality Girl, 2000’s Persona, 2001’s Inugami, 2001’s St. John’s Wort (aka Otogirisou), 2005’s Noroi: The Curse and Continue reading

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Sun Dragon | aka A Hard Way to Die (1979) Review

"Sun Dragon" Theatrical Poster

“Sun Dragon” Theatrical Poster

Director: Hua Shan
Cast: Billy Chong, Carl Scott, Louis Neglia, Ma Chung-Tak, Hsiao Sung Liang, Joseph Jennings, Gam Biu, Lam Hak-Ming, Hau Chiu-Sing, Lai Sau-Kit
Running Time: 90 min.

By Henry McKeand

Two decades before Hollywood tasked the Andrzej Bartkowiaks and Brett Ratners of the world with melding Hong Kong action with Hip-Hop aesthetics, Shanghai-born director Hua Shan was crafting his own successful Black-meets-Asian action creations. Thanks to martial artist Carl Scott, a Black American who moved like he studied at the Peking Opera School, Hua was able to make two movies that fully capitalized on the popularity of martial arts cinema in the States. The first was Soul Brothers of Kung Fu, a crime-revenge flick that found Scott teaming up with Bruce Li and Lo Ming. The second was Sun Dragon (also known as A Hard Way to Die), a Kung Fu western co-starring Willy Dozan (or Billy Chong, as he was often billed).

With Sun Dragon, Hua and his crew were able to film entirely on-location in Phoenix, Arizona. The fact that some of the American posters and DVD covers even brag about this is telling; Hua was clearly thrilled to shoot in the American West. The film opens with footage of vast Canyon-filled vistas, and many scenes begin with people walking through forests and deserts. There are chases on horseback and standoffs in wooden-walled saloons and paranoid bandits Continue reading

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There will be blood! Watch the Trailer for Netflix’ Thai-horror anthology ‘Terror Tuesday: Extreme’ arriving in August

"Terror Tuesday: Extreme" Netflix Poster

“Terror Tuesday: Extreme” Netflix Poster

If the recent South Korean horror anthology Tastes of Horror didn’t quite satisfy your bloody-thirsty quench for terror, then we have some good news, especially if you’re a Netflix subscriber!

On August 20, 2024, the streaming giant will release Terror Tuesday: Extreme. Based on the haunting true stories told on a famous radio show, this new horror series will bring eight stories to the screen directed by eight directors in eight episodes of extreme terror with an incredible cast that will give you a series of unexpected fear.

The horror anthology is a production that’s been around for years, and in Asia there have been several takes on the format in the 21st century. The early 2000’s gave us the Three…Extremes multi-country anthologies, the late 2000’s gave us Thailand’s 4bia and its sequel, by the time Continue reading

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X Gon’ Give It To Ya! Alec Su’s adaptation of Keigo Higashino’s ‘Devotion of Suspect X’ heading to Blu-ray on July 30th

"The Devotion of Suspect X" Theatrical Poster

“The Devotion of Suspect X” Theatrical Poster

On July 30, 2024, Bayview Films and China Lion is releasing the Blu-ray for The Devotion of Suspect X, a 2017 thriller from Alec Su (The Left Ear) that stars Wang Kai (A Better Tomorrow 2018) and Zhang Luyi (The Legend of the Demon Cat).

Based on Keigo Higashino’s award-winning novel of the same name, The Devotion of Suspect X follows a professor (Wang Kai) assisting in a murder investigation, only to find that a longtime rival and friend (Zhang Luyi) from his early university days may be involved.

The Devotion of Suspect X also stars Ruby Lin (China Strike Force), Hou Minghao (Hidden Strike) and Deng Enxi (A Cool Fish).

Don’t miss the Trailer Continue reading

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If only you believe in miracles… Jackie Chan’s 1989 masterpiece arriving on 4K Ultra HD from 88 Films?

"Miracles" Japanese Theatrical Poster

“Miracles” Japanese Theatrical Poster

UK-based artist Sam Green has teased artwork for what is rumored to be for 88 Films’ forthcoming 4K Ultra HD release for Miracles (aka Mr. Canton and Lady Rose), Jackie Chan’s 1989 Golden Harvest martial arts film, which is loosely remade from Frank Capra’s 1961 classic Pocketful of Miracles.

Directed by and starring Jackie Chan, Miracles features an all-star cast that includes Rose Gua Ah Leh (The Wedding Banquet), Anita Mui Yim-fong (Drunken Master 2), Wu Ma (The Blonde Fury), Michael Chow Man Kin (Era of Vampires), Fung Hak On (Shatter), Ricky Hui (Private Eyes), Ray Lui (Death Notice), Mars (Lackey and the Lady Tiger), Richard Ng Yiu-hon (Invincible Dragon), Dick Wei (Final Run), Gloria Yip Wan-Yee (To Be Number One) and Kenny Bee (Eagle Shooting Heroes).

An optimistic Continue reading

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Sweet news for Korean cinema fans! Second Sight’s 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray for ‘A Bittersweet Life’ is now shipping!

A Bittersweet Life | 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray (Second Sight)

A Bittersweet Life | 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray (Second Sight)

Now shipping from Goodie Emporium is Second Sight’s 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray (Region B) for A Bittersweet Life, a 2005 action thriller from acclaimed filmmaker Kim Jee-Woon (Cobweb, The Age of Shadows, I Saw the Devil).

All you need to know about A Bittersweet Life is that it is, in our humble opinion, one of the best gangster movies ever. Seriously – a great mix of cool characters, action, dialogue, and humour.

A loyal gangster falls foul of his gang when he’s assigned to keep watch over the young mistress of his crime boss. Things take a violent and bloody turn when he is unable to carry through on an order to dispatch the girlfriend and her new lover.

The film stars Lee Continue reading

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Customs Frontline (2024) Review

“Customs Frontline” Theatrical Poster

“Customs Frontline” Theatrical Poster

Director: Herman Yau
Cast: Jacky Cheung, Nicholas Tse, Karena Lam, Francis Ng, Liu Yase, Michelle Wai, Angus Yeung, Melvin Wong, Ben Yuen, Amanda Strang, Brahim Chab
Running Time: 115 min. 

By Paul Bramhall

While the flaunting of China’s various authorities and military divisions through the format of cinema has become almost the exclusive forte of Dante Lam, in 2024 he kindly stepped aside to make some room for fellow Hong Kong director Herman Yau to take a shot. While Lam has already got the army (2016’s Operation Mekong), navy (2018’s Operation Red Sea), and the Rescue and Salvage Teams (2020’s The Rescue) covered, thankfully the customs authority has yet to have its time in the spotlight, so it is for Yau’s latest the border force are given a chance to shine. Customs Frontline is already Yau’s 2nd movie of 2024 following his remake of the 1998 Hollywood thriller The Negotiator, titled Crisis Negotiators, and is easily the most anticipated production he’s worked on for a while.

A large part of why is due to the return of Nicholas Tse to fully fledged leading man status, following his role as the villain for Donnie Yen to face off against in the late Benny Chan’s 2021 swansong Raging Fire. Not only does it see Tse in a starring role for the first time since 2017’s LNY comedy drama Cook Up a Storm, but it’s also the first time for him to take on action Continue reading

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How to Leverage Australian Dollar Stablecoins in Your Investment Strategy

Ever feel like the world of investing is a bit of a rollercoaster? One minute, your stocks are soaring, and the next, they’re plummeting. Australian dollar (AUD) stablecoins are a game-changer that combines the stability of traditional currency with the innovation of the crypto world.

As resources like Crypto news Australia will tell you, these digital assets are pegged to the Aussie dollar, meaning they’re designed to stay stable, unlike the wild swings of Bitcoin or Ethereum. Intrigued? You should be! In this guide, we’ll dive into how to use AUD stablecoins to boost your investment strategy. We’ll explore their benefits, how to integrate them into your portfolio, manage risks, and maximise your returns.

What are Australian Dollar Stablecoins?

Alright, let’s start with the basics. What exactly are AUD stablecoins? Think of them as digital tokens that keep their value equal to one Australian dollar. Unlike cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which can see their prices skyrocket or crash in a single day, these stablecoins are designed to stay stable. They’re usually backed by actual AUD reserves, making them a reliable option for those looking to avoid the volatility of the crypto market.

Benefits in Investments

So, why should you consider adding these coins to your investment mix? For one, they offer a haven from the unpredictable ups and downs of other cryptocurrencies. When the market gets crazy, having a stable asset like them can be a real lifesaver. They make it easy to move money in and out of the crypto world without worrying about conversion rates or price swings. They’re also a handy tool for hedging against currency risks and inflation.

Integrating them into Your Portfolio

Start by taking a good look at your current investments. Are there areas where stablecoins could add some much-needed stability? Maybe you want to balance out some riskier assets or have a safe spot to park funds while waiting for the next big opportunity. They’re also great for managing liquidity, ensuring you have quick access to cash when you need it.

Strategies for Maximising Returns 

Want to get the most out of your AUD stablecoins? There are several strategies you can try. For example, you could use them in yield farming or staking programs to earn interest or rewards. Some platforms allow you to lend your stablecoins or provide liquidity, generating passive income. Another tactic is using them for market timing—holding onto them during volatile periods and reinvesting when the market looks more favourable.

Diversifying with Stablecoins

Adding these coins to your portfolio introduces a layer of stability, reducing overall risk. This helps smooth out the bumps and provides a steady foundation for your more volatile investments. Think of them as the glue that holds your diversified portfolio together, making it more resilient to market fluctuations.

Choosing the Right Crypto Platform

Not all platforms are created equal, so you’ll want to find one that meets your needs. Look for a platform with a solid reputation, low fees, and strong security features. Check out the trading pairs and liquidity options to ensure you can trade these stablecoins smoothly. Doing a bit of research and reading reviews can help you find a platform that makes your investment journey smooth and hassle-free.

With these tips, and taking help of resources like Crypto news Australia, you’re all set to leverage AUD stablecoins in your investment strategy. Stay informed and flexible. Adjust your strategy as the market changes.

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