The lethal weapon is back! New U.S. Trailer for Ryoo Seung-wan’s ‘I, the Executioner’ starring Hwang Jung-min

"I, the Executioner" Theatrical Poster

“I, the Executioner” Theatrical Poster

Director Ryoo Seung-wan (The Battleship Island, Escape from Mogadishu) is a familiar name to fans of Korean action cinema, ever since his debut Die Bad in 2000, he’s consistently delivered a series of movies which combine action with a strong narrative.

Since his riotous parody of old school Korean action movies with 2008’s Dachimawa Lee, the director has taken a decidedly darker approach, with both The Unjust and The Berlin File exploring the not so pleasant side of life. While both contained plenty of his trademarks, Seung-wan himself expressed a desire to move away from these darker tales, and get back to the type of action movies that he watched in his youth, those that existed in a brighter world where the good guy wins.

2015’s Veteran was that return, and was arguably his most successful production Continue reading

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Your honor… the evidence is clear in the New Teaser Trailer for Donnie Yen’s latest action thriller ‘The Prosecutor’

“The Prosecutor” Teaser Poster

“The Prosecutor” Teaser Poster

After a disappointing turn with Polar Rescue, we’ll soon be seeing martial arts star Donnie Yen (Sakra, Chasing the Dragon) kick some actual ass in Mandarin Motion Pictures and China’s Huace Pictures’ The Prosecutor (aka Misjudgement) an action thriller from filmmaker Ho Pong Mak (Breakout Brothers trilogy), who co-directs along with Yen himself.

The Prosecutor is a poor young man is wrongly charged with drug trafficking after being deceived. An ex-prosecutor investigates the case, uncovers a corrupt lawyer team’s scheme, and restores justice despite obstruction from evil forces.

The Prosecutor also stars Kang Yu (Wu Xia, Big Brother) and Julian Continue reading

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‘The Mob’ has gone digital! Zhao Cong’s gangster thriller available On Digital on September 10th from Well Go USA

"The Mob" Theatrical Poster

“The Mob” Theatrical Poster

Here’s an offer you can’t refuse… On September 10, 2024, the gritty gangster actioner The Mob will arrive On Digital. This gangster thriller is directed by Zhao Cong (Rise of the Jurassic).

After the murder of its high-profile patriarch, the Zhou family seeks revenge against a ruthless rival clan moving to expand its own territory, sparking a brutal conflict between the warring families that throws Shanghai into chaos.

The Mob stars Xu Fangzhou (All These Years), Zhang Junran (Trace), Yan Jiaying (Tiger Killer), Chen Junxi (Annals of Longevity), Guan Xiaotian (Switch), and Zhang Zhiwei (The Woman Knight of Mirror Lake)

The film is also currently on the martial arts streaming service Hi-YAH! If you want Continue reading

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Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story | 4K Ultra HD (Shout!)

Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story | 4K Ultra HD (Shout!)

Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story | 4K Ultra HD (Shout!)

RELEASE DATE: November 26, 2023

On November 26th, 2023, Shout! Factory is releasing the 4K Ultra HD for Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story, a 1993 Bruce Lee biopic directed by Rob Cohen (The Fast and the Furious), which is loosely based on Linda Lee’s 1975 book, Bruce Lee The Man Only I Knew.

The film stars Jason Scott Lee (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 2), Lauren Holly (Dumb and Dumber), Robert Wagner (Heart to Heart), Michael Learned (The Waltons), Nancy wan (The Wrecking Crew), Ric Young (The Corruptor) and Ong Soo Han (The King of the Kickboxers).

Based on true events, Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story is the incredible journey of the life, love and unconquerable spirit of the martial arts legend. From a childhood of rigorous martial arts training, Bruce Lee (Jason Scott Lee, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 2) realizes his Continue reading

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

Golden Harvest Vol. 1: Supernatural Shockers | Blu-ray (Shout!)

Golden Harvest Vol. 1: Supernatural Shockers | Blu-ray (Shout!)

Golden Harvest Vol. 1: Supernatural Shockers | Blu-ray (Shout!)

RELEASE DATE: November 12, 2024

On November 12th, 2024, Shout! Factory will be releasing the Blu-ray Collection for Golden Harvest Vol. 1: Supernatural Shockers, which will include 1991’s Sex and Zen, 1990’s Erotic Ghost Story, 1991’s Erotic Ghost Story II, 1992’s Erotic Ghost Story III, 1990’s Doctor Vampire and 1991’s Robotrix. 

Read the official details:

Scandalous. Sensual. Shocking. Prepare yourself for a collection of some of the most outrageous offerings in the history of Hong Kong Cinema! The Golden Harvest Collection, Volume 1: Supernatural Shockers brings you six of the steamiest, most outrageous films you’ve ever seen (including several infamous “Category III” – adults only – classics)! From the unearthly appearance of ghosts and vampires to the undeniable screen presence of Amy Yip, these sublimely sexy Continue reading

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Striving for Excellence: How to Be the Best of the Best in Your Field

Both talent and practice, followed by strategic planning are necessary to be in the hands-down best for any field. It doesn’t matter if you want to be successful at work, in academics, or partaking in personal growth – keeping high standards for yourself and working hard towards your goals is a crucial thing. Here, we will discuss top strategies and practices that could help you dominate your technical interview (pun intended).

1. Define Your Goals and Vision

Knowing what you want fuels your ambitions and aspirations to be the best at whatever it is that you do. Aim for the standards of excellence you would like to achieve and set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable Relevant & Time-bound goals. 

This can take the form of launching a successful start-up, bringing in revenue, or gaining expert-level status within your market if you are an aspiring entrepreneur. Having a clear vision will keep you on track and motivated, which will help direct your actions and decisions as each accomplishment leads to another.

2. Develop Expertise and Skill

What tends to become excellence is generated on top of a background regardless of expertise and skill. You will be the number one in your field, for instance in basketball collecting Basketball trophies, making time and effort to grow up as a pro. It may include going back to school or getting certifications, and perpetual learning. 

Keep up with the prevailing trends and innovations within your field, looking for professional growth opportunities as well.  Regular practice to hone your skills will make you a better pro at what you do and stand out as one of the best in your role.

3. Embrace a Growth Mindset

The beginning to excellence overcome obstacles and see them as learning tools for growth. A mindset of effort, resilience, and adaptability is what will help you hurdle whatever comes your way the best. You can improve speaking by working on your personal development and professional growth. By being the best, you already completed your goals but you must also stay within your limit.

4. Build a Strong Network

For the most part, achievement is due to networking. Start surrounding yourself with people who inspire and push you. Spend time in networks of mentors, peers, and industry leaders who can offer help, support you be a treasure chest of knowledge. 

Networking also flourishes your opportunities and provides you with the appropriate collaborations to help you move a step closer to what your aims are. Go to industry conferences, become members of professional organizations, and put yourself out there in the right communities.

5. Foster Continuous Improvement

Excellence is a way of traveling and out not the destination. Be the best version of yourself to stay ahead. Spend time making sure you are still performing well, getting feedback, and learning how to do better. 

Integrating techniques to hone your skills and keeping receptive to new ideas, and methods will allow you to be resilient in a constantly shifting business environment as well as ensure that there are always opportunities out for the taking. By continuing the development of a culture that supports growth and innovation, you set your company up to be industry-leading well into the future.

Via Pexels

6, Lead by Example and Motivate Others

Part of being the best of the best is also helping to inspire and lead others. Inspire and show everyone around you by sharing your learnings, experiences & wins so that they too can stand on their battlefield! 

You have the power to positively affect those near you by leading with your actions and showing well in everything that you do. If you are a leader, mentor, or role model in some capacity — your leadership and example can help others be successful which only further solidifies the notion you might be on top.

7. Cultural And Personal Development of the Community

Go beyond your professional achievements and achieve excellence in your personal life as well as community participation. Involvement in the community, volunteering, and supporting causes that matter to you can bring greater satisfaction overall as well as help build your image.

Lastly, managing your work-life balance and spending time with personal growth tools could benefit both your performance and health. Doing things that make YOUR life better and also the bigger contribute to round out a picture of excellence in totality.

In conclusion, the process of achieving extraordinary and setting down the best requires a structured approach, an initiation to prepare for excellence, investing knowledge in learning skills & continuous improvement. Articulating your vision, staying open to growing, and tracking against a high bar can all help you achieve excellence in the context of your work. If you work hard, have perseverance, and dedicate yourself with practice, great things will happen in your life — greatness that can positively influence others for generations.

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The Stephen Chow Collection | Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

The Stephen Chow Collection | Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

The Stephen Chow Collection | Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

RELEASE DATE: November 26th, 2024

On November 26th, 2024, Shout! Factory will be releasing the Blu-ray for The Stephen Chow Collection, which will include 1990’s Look Out, Officer!, 1992’s Justice, My Foot!, 1993’s The Mad Monk and 1995’s Out of the Dark.

Read the official details:

Celebrate the legendary career of Hong Kong master of mirth and mayhem Stephen Chow (Shaolin Soccer, Kung Fu Hustle) with this four-film collection!

Selected from Chow’s ’90s prime, these films showcase the unique comedy & action stylings that made Chow an international star of the screen. Get ready for laughs, thrills, and appearances from a bevy of Hong Kong legends, including Maggie Continue reading

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

The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk Collection | 4K Ultra HD (88 Films)

The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk Collection | 4K Ultra HD (88 Films)

RELEASE DATE: November 25, 2024

On November 25, 2024, 88 Films will be releasing The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk Collection on 4K Ultra HD, which will include two Corey Yuen-directed martial arts classics: 1993’s The Legend of Fong Sai-yuk and The Legend of Fong Sai-yuk II.

The films co-star Josephine Siao Fung Fung (Summer Snow), Michelle Reis (Bodyguards & Assassins), Vincent Chiu Man Chuk (Once Upon a Time in China IV), Sibelle Hu (The Holy Virgin Versus the Evil Dead), Adam Cheng (Seven Warriors) and Amy Kwok (Victim).

This limited edition Jet Li double feature includes two breathtaking martial arts action films directed by Corey Yuen (The Transporter). In The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk, Jet Li stars as a carefree young martial arts expert who gets involved with a government Continue reading

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Legend of the zoo warrior? New Poster Jackie Chan’s ‘Panda Plan’ from ‘Song of Youth’ director Zhang Luan

"Panda Plan" Theatrical Poster

“Panda Plan” Theatrical Poster

Martial arts superstar Jackie Chan (Hidden Strike, Ride On) is headed to the zoo with Panda Plan (aka Project P), Mandarin Motion Pictures’ upcoming film directed by Zhang Luan (Song of YouthGive Me Five). If you’re into the action-comedy genre, this one will make you win all the money you want, as if you were using a BetWinner verifier coupon.

The film centers on a rare baby panda with a dark circle around just one eye, who becomes a worldwide sensation when he’s born at China’s Noah Zoo. But when a Middle Eastern tycoon dispatches international mercenaries to kidnap the zoo’s baby pandas, Chan, playing a version of himself as an international action star, is forced to get involved in a rescue mission (via THR).

Panda Plan also stars Shi Ce (Hi, Mom), Wei Xiang (Full River Red), Han Continue reading

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Killer, The (2024) Review

"The Killer" International Poster

“The Killer” International Poster

Director: John Woo
Cast: Omar Sy, Nathalie Emmanuel, Diana Silvers, Sam Worthington, Eric Cantona, Aurélia Agel, Tchéky Karyo, Saïd Taghmaoui, Angeles Woo
Running Time: 126 min.

By Paul Bramhall 

Chances are if you’re a fan of Hong Kong action cinema, then John Woo’s 1989 classic The Killer is part of the reason why. In the 35 years since there’s been multiple attempts at a Hollywood remake – in the 1990’s Richard Gere and Denzel Washington were frequently attached to a script penned by Walter Hill and David Gilder. In the early 2010’s Jung Woo-sung was set to make his English language debut in a version helmed by John H. Lee planned to be shot in 3D. Then in the mid-2010’s John Woo expressed his own desire to direct the remake, one which was eventually slated to star Lupita Nyong’o, however the COVID-19 pandemic put the project on ice. The one common factor each failed attempt shared was a collective sigh of relief from the originals loyal fanbase, with the general consensus being that it was one of those movies that should be left alone.

However Hollywood doesn’t work that way, so in 2024 the remake eventually hit the screens – the screens of Peacock subscribers to be precise, which for those living outside of the U.S. (which includes myself), is a U.S. only streaming service. It was an unceremonious release, not only skipping cinemas, but arriving on a platform that has just 34 million subscribers, a number that Netflix’s global reach of 277 million dwarfs in comparison. However, it does have John Woo Continue reading

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Donnie Yen, Jackie Chan, Chin Siu Ho and more king of fighters! Here what’s on Hi-YAH for the month of September

Hi-YAH!, Well Go USA’s very own Asian/martial arts streaming channel has just announced their New Releases for the month of September.

If you want to give Hi-YAH! a go, visitors of this site can use the promo code “CITYONFIRE” for a FREE 30 Day trial!

Read on for the full list of New and Exclusive Continue reading

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The Economics of Sports Betting: How It Affects the Sports Industry

Betting on sports has changed from being a rare practice into a worldwide business that generates billions of dollars and impacts the sports industry. With the ever-expanding legalization of sports betting around the states and countries, the effects of sports betting on leagues, teams and fans are starting to be seen. This article looks at how sports betting has impacted the sports industry.

The Rise of Legalized Sports Betting

The legalization of sports betting has been one of the key drivers of growth in the global sports business. In the United States, the PASPA Act was nullified in the year 2018 thereby enabling the various states of the country to come up with their laws on sports betting. This led to an eruption of both online and in-person sports betting markets where billions of dollars are earned in a year. Internationally, sports betting has been popular for many years in such countries as the UK, Australia and European countries, with the mobile application, Betway app further enhancing the experience.

As the online and mobile sports betting platforms continue to be enhanced, players have continued to embrace apps such as the Betway app. These platforms will provide the user with fast and convenient access to the betting markets of different sports, thus allowing the user to support their preferred team with just a single touch. The advancement in technology especially in the aspect of mobile betting has helped in increasing the number of players thus growing the industry even more.

Revenue Generation for Leagues and Teams

Perhaps the most straightforward economic effect of sports betting is the money that it brings into sports leagues and teams. Sports betting firms have entered into agreements with leagues thus providing them with sponsorship and advertising profits. Most of the leagues such as the NFL, NBA and EPL have signed big deals with betting companies and many of these companies offer live odds or betting markets linked with the games of these leagues.

Fan Engagement and Increased Viewership

Sports betting especially through the use of apps such as the Betway app has changed how the fan engages with the sport. In the past, only spectators used to watch and enjoy the games but now they have a chance to place a bet and thus become more involved in the game. This creates a higher level of interest because when people are betting on the games, they will watch the entire match.

Some of the services that can be found on such apps, enable the users to place their bets during the progress of the games. This real-time interaction improves fan engagement and increases the fan’s affinity with the sport they are watching. The findings also indicate that bettors are more likely to watch games closely, consume more sports content and be active during a season thus increasing advertising revenue for sports broadcasters and leagues.

Economic Boost for Local Economies

Apart from the advantage that sports betting has in sports organizations, it also plays a very crucial role in boosting the economy of a local area. It has been estimated that legalized betting systems are a good source of income and the money generated can be used for the welfare of the people or development needs such as education and infrastructure. Some of the states that have embraced the idea of legalizing sports betting have noted increased revenues in their coffers including New Jersey and Pennsylvania in the U.S.

Impact on Sports Media and Broadcasting

It has brought a big change to the coverage of sports through media especially with the integration of sports betting. This has led to the integration of betting content in the networks; from the pre-match betting lines to in-game betting updates. Some of the platforms, including the Betway app, have increased their reach by providing live coverage of events coupled with betting odds in real time, thus enhancing the users’ experience.

Sports betting content is now a significant part of sports media with shows, podcasts and live streams which assist the bettors. These advancements have also led to the generation of new revenue streams for broadcasters, leagues as well as betting companies in addition to contributing to the rise in viewership of live sporting activities.

The Future of Sports Betting and Its Long-Term Economic Impact

Moving forward, the sports betting industry is projected to sustain its growth, with mobile applications such as the Betway app being the main driver of this growth. More states and countries legalizing betting will mean more people will join in thus causing a positive impact to the sports industry financially. Further, technological enhancements in the forms of artificial intelligence for odds-making and virtual sports betting are set to revolutionize the industry and enhance fan and bettor interaction.

However, the problem of how to maintain economic growth while at the same time meeting ethical standards will still be a major issue. The regulation authorities and the betting firms have a responsibility to promote responsible gambling and be open to avoiding vices that can taint the sports.

Conclusion

Sports betting economics have come in to alter the dynamics of the sports business, especially through revenue generation, fan participation and the positive impact on the economy of the regions where such bets are placed. Balanced and proper management as well as the development of new ideas and concepts will make sure that sports betting remains an economic opportunity while at the same time making sure that there is fairness for everyone involved.

Posted in News |

Expecting Chuck Norris? Vinegar Syndrome announces Blu-ray for the 1990 Hong Kong film ‘An Eye for an Eye’

An Eye for an Eye | Blu-ray (Vinegar Syndrome)

An Eye for an Eye | Blu-ray (Vinegar Syndrome)

This month, Vinegar Syndrome is releasing the Blu-ray for An Eye for an Eye, a 1990 Hong Kong thriller from director O Sing-Pui (1987’s Golden Swallow).

Note: Upon its initial theatrical release, An Eye for an Eye was given a Cat IIB rating (“Not Suitable for Young Persons and Children”), but Vinegar Syndrome is releasing the director’s cut, which technically brings the film to a Cat III (“No persons younger than 18 years of age are permitted to rent, purchase, or watch this film in the cinema”) rated title.

This film stars Joey Wang (City Hunter), John Ching (Return to a Better Tomorrow), Ricky Wong Chun-Tong (Gangs), Hiu-Hung Fong (Handsome Siblings), Chi Shing Fung (Dragon in Jail), Wilson Continue reading

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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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