‘Mandalorian’ star Gina Carano is back with the ‘Straw Dogs’-like Western thriller ‘Terror on the Prairie’

"Terror on the Prairie" Poster

“Terror on the Prairie” Poster

Michael Polish, director of Mel Gibson’s 2020 thriller Force of Nature, has teamed up with yet another controversial star for an upcoming Western titled Terror on the Prairie, which will be led by MMA star-turned actress, Gina Carano (Blood and Bone, Kickboxer: Vengeance).

The film is about a pioneering family that fights back against a gang of vicious outlaws that is terrorizing them on their newly built farm on the plains of Montana (via Deadline). Judging from this plot, we’re getting some strong Straw Dogs-vibes.

Co-stars include MMA star Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone (Spenser Confidential), comedian Tyler Fischer (StartUp), Heath Freeman (Skateland) and Samaire Armstrong (The O.C.), Travis Mills (Counting Bullets) and cult action Continue reading

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Cruel Gun Story (1964) Review

"Cruel Gun Story" Theatrical Poster

“Cruel Gun Story” Theatrical Poster

Director: Takumi Furukawa
Cast: Jo Shishido, Chieko Matsubara, Tamio Kawaji, Shobun Inoue, Yuji Odaka, Minako Kazuki, Hiroshi Nihonyanagi, Hiroshi Kondo, Saburo Hiromatsu
Running Time: 87 min.

By Henry McKeand

In the 1960s, the Japanese studio Nikkatsu made a string of hard-edged crime thrillers that became known as “borderless action” films. They received this distinction because they borrowed from international influences, combining classic American noir and French New Wave gangster cool with elements of Japan’s own chambara samurai films to create an incendiary new subgenre. 

There’s a cold, uncaring cruelty in the Japanese crime cinema of the time that sometimes borders on sadistic. In a way, it was a sister movement to the then-burgeoning spaghetti western revolution taking place in Italy, and it was a precursor to the Italian Poliziotteschi films of the 70s. American noir could be vicious, sure, but it rarely reached the bloody heights of Nikkatsu’s 60s output. In fact, movies such as A Colt Is My Passport have more in common with the most nihilistic and hard-boiled American crime literature; it’s easy to imagine Jim Thompson and Donald Westlake getting a kick out of Joe Shishido’s countless son-of-a-bitch protagonists. Classic samurai films are talked about more today, but borderless action directors such as Takashi Nomura and Seijun Suzuki Continue reading

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The Korean filmmaker behind ‘The Chaser’, ‘The Yellow Sea’ and ‘The Wailing’ to return for 2023’s ‘The Mink’

"Chaser" Theatrical Poster

“Chaser” Theatrical Poster

They call him Na Hong-Jin. If you’re not familiar with his name, maybe you’re familiar with his work. In 2008, he shook the world with his debut feature film, The Chaser. In 2010, he showed us that he wasn’t a one-hit wonder with The Yellow Sea. Then in 2016 came The Wailing, where Na proved his cinematic prowess while tackling the occult subgenre. So what’s next for the Na?

Apparently, his long-awaited next project is The Mink, a title that was recently announced as one of the upcoming titles from South Korean production company, Showbox Ltd.

The Mink will supposedly be another Thai/South Korean collaboration (via HC), following his work with Banjong Pisanthanakun’s 2021 horror film, The Medium. Currently, plot and casting details Continue reading

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Interceptor (2022) Review

Director: Matthew Reilly
Cast: Elsa Pataky, Luke Bracey, Aaron Glenane, Mayen Mehta, Paul Caesar, Belinda Jombwe, Marcus Johnson, Zoe Carides, Kim Knuckey, Deniz Akdeniz
Running Time: 92 min.

By Paul Bramhall

I have to be honest, writing about Matthew Reilly in 2022 is not something I saw coming. To give some background, way back in 2000 my friend lent me a book, handing it over with the ominous words “You have to read this.” The book was called Ice Station, the second novel penned by Reilly (then billed as Matt Reilly), and indeed it was like nothing I’d ever read before. A 500 plus page action adventure penned with the enthusiasm of someone who lived on a diet of Red Bull, and featuring all of the narrative logic of an over excited 10-year-old. It was, however, highly entertaining. The brazen fact that Reilly seemed to ignore every rule in the book (pun intended) when it came to narrative cohesion saw me laughing one minute (a character with a prosthetic leg detaching it to appear as if they’d been blown up), to feeling completely numb the next (a ridiculous hovercraft chase that goes on for over 30 pages!).

I read a couple more of Reilly’s subsequent novels before the constant manic energy and silliness lost its novelty, and so it was he slipped into the recesses of my memory banks. Imagine my surprise then, when in 2022 it turns out he’s stepped into the director’s chair and helmed his first feature, landing direct to Netflix in the form of Interceptor. Naturally, curiosity got the better of me. While I was aware many of Reilly’s novels have had the rights purchased by various studios, it’s less of a surprise that none of them have made it to the screen, more than likely due to the fact it’d require a mega budget to realise the action sequences. So it is here we get a stripped-down action Continue reading

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Blonde Fury, The | aka Lady Reporter (1989) Review

"Lady Reporter" International Poster

“Lady Reporter” International Poster

Director: Meng Hoi
Cast: Cynthia Rothrock, Chin Siu Ho, Meng Hoi, Elizabeth Lee Mei Fung, Roy Chiao, Billy Chow, Ronny Yu Yan Tai, Jeff Falcon, Vincent Lyn, Chung Fat, Tai Bo, Melvin Wong Gam San, Wu Ma, Hsiao Ho, Kwan Yung, James Tien Chun
Running Time: 90 min.

By Martin Sandison

In 1995, when I was 13, I visited my local video shop. Ah, those were the days. How I loved perusing the weird and wonderful titles. I still have dreams about it. A couple of weeks before I had rented Project A, an experience that changed my life forever. I was eager for more, and saw a title whose box delighted my eyes: Above the Law, aka Righting Wrongs. It became the first Hong Kong movie I ever owned, and I watched that video to death. I still have it, and it still works despite some tracking lines in the fight scenes. The film is still a firm favourite of mine, and many others. Containing all of the things that made Golden Age Hong Kong cinema so exciting and enrapturing, it also was a showcase for the one and only Cynthia Rothrock. As a kid seeing her kick, punch and sass her way through the movie meant she became my dream woman. I cannot wait for the forthcoming Blu-ray releases of that classic. I’ll be double-dipping, oh yes.

Righting Wrongs is a martial arts action-thriller, one that doesn’t have a lot of room for humour. For the semi-sequel The Blonde Fury, the film-makers decided to spice things up with a healthy dose of Hong Kong style laughs. An approach at turns mildly offensive and at others, due to choice subtitles, hilariously silly. The movie has the distinction of being the only effort in which Rothrock takes lead billing. In Hong Kong film history a Western female taking a lead role hadn’t happened before, and is unlikely to happen again. A wonderful achievement for this legend of action cinema.  Continue reading

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Joey King and Veronica Ngo kick ass in a New fight clip for Hulu’s ‘The Princess’ from ‘Furie’ director Le-Van Kiet

"The Princess" Theatrical Poster

“The Princess” Theatrical Poster

Vietnamese filmmaker Le-Van Kiet (The Requin), who is perhaps best known for helming 2012’s House in the Alley and 2019’s Furie, both of which were headlined by martial arts star Veronica Ngo (The Rebel), is getting ready to unleash his 2nd English-language debut feature, The Princess.

The upcoming film stars Joey King (The Conjuring), Ivo Arakov (Full Love), Martin Taskov (The Devil’s Light) – and last, but not least – Le-Van Kiet’s frequent collaborator, Veronica Ngo (Clash).

When a strong-willed princess (King) refuses to wed the cruel sociopath, she is kidnapped and locked in a remote tower of her father’s castle. With her vindictive suitor intent on taking her father’s throne, the princess must save the kingdom.

To Western audiences, Ngo is mostly Continue reading

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Deal on Fire! The Monkey King: Reborn | Blu-ray | Only $4.99 – Expires soon!

The Monkey King: Reborn | Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

The Monkey King: Reborn | Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for the all-new anime action-adventure fantasy The Monkey King: Reborn.

Playing off the three hugely popular Monkey King live action films, The Monkey King: Reborn follows the short-tempered trickster after he is insulted while visiting a temple with his master Tang Monk. Outraged, he destroys a magical tree and accidentally releases the ancient King of Demons, who kidnaps Tang Monk as revenge for his long imprisonment. Now, Monkey King and his fellow disciples must rescue their master within three days, before the demon king regains his full power and unleashes his armies to destroy the earth.

Directed by Wang Yun Fei (4-film Yugo & Lala franchise), The Monkey King: Reborn features an all-new English dub for this Continue reading

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Paid in Blood | aka Tomb of the River (2021) Review

"Paid in Blood" Hi-YAH! Poster

“Paid in Blood” Hi-YAH! Poster

Director: Yoon Young-Bin
Cast: Yu Oh-Seong, Jang Hyuk, Park Sung-Geun, Oh Dae-Hwan, Lee Hyun-Kyun, Shin Seung-Hwan, Song Young-Kyu, Kim Jun-Bae, Lee Chae-Young, Han Sun-Hwa 
Running Time: 119 min.

By Paul Bramhall

In 2021’s Paid in Blood everything that’s old feels new again, a Korean gangster flick that harkens back to the late 90’s/early 2000’s heyday, a time when Korea practically made the gangster movie a genre of its own. Of course no amount of hacking, slashing, and getting beaten by steel pipes or planks of wood can last forever, and in more recent years the gangster genre has fallen on hard times in the Korean film industry. A result of a country whose cinematic output has become much more commercialised that it was just 20 years ago, the grit that attracted many to the likes of A Bittersweet Life and A Dirty Carnival has now been covered with a sheen of gloss, and does anyone really clock in for a glossy gangster movie?

First time director Yoon Young-bin seems to be aware of this, so has dialled back the sheen for a tale of backstabbing (often literally) and bloodthirsty ambition. A native of Gangneung, Young-bin chooses his hometown for his debut to play out in, a city that’s famous for its coffee and hosted a number of the games during the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics (both of which are referenced). The story itself takes place in 2017, 6 months before the Olympics are due to start, and involves the power struggle for ownership of a newly commissioned resort. Encompassing Continue reading

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

How Chinese culture has permeated into the world of iGaming

There is no denying that the casino scene has an increasingly Chinese flavor. Chinese-themed slot and table games are now par for the course in the iGaming industry. It’s little wonder that the western world has embraced Chinese-inspired games given the volumes of tourists that venture from east to west. Many casino operators and sites look to provide casino games that reach out to Chinese visitors and make them feel at home.

It wasn’t until the back end of the 20th century when Asian culture was broadly recognized in the western entertainment industry. Chinese movies were eventually popularized and credited in the 1980s and 1990s, winning several international awards in the process. Whether it’s Chunjie or ninja-themed, Chinese entertainment has successfully transcended the western world and it’s also infiltrated the iGaming scene.

Below we’ll explore three of the leading video slots and table games found in the leading land-based and online casinos that ooze Chinese influences.

Pai Gow Poker

Pai Gow is a Chinese domino game that’s said to have originated in the 12th century. Chinese domino tiles have been reclaimed from the 12th to 14th centuries, which differ somewhat from those during the Qing Dynasty, as they were black rather than white. This trick-taking game is still enjoyed today by people in southern, central and northern China.

In 1985, a casino owner named Sam Torosian devised a poker game variant inspired by Pai Gow. The game was played using a 52-card deck of playing cards instead of conventional Pai Gow dominoes. The object of the game is for players to create five- and two-card poker hands that beat the dealer’s best “front” and “back” hands.

Mahjong Ways 2

The tile-based game of Mahjong dates back to the 1800s. Originating in China, this domino-style game became a western hit in the 20th century. In China, it helped create a sense of community and belonging. People would convene to play Mahjong in social areas at tables tailor-made for this abstract strategy game.

Mahjong Ways 2 is a celebration of this Chinese pop culture classic. The sequel of the original Mahjong Ways slot, Mahjong Ways 2 features Mahjong tiles that appear as symbols on all five reels. During any winning spin, the gold-plated Mahjong tiles convert into ‘Wild’ symbols, which can help to multiply the size of any wins. As five-reel slots go, this game does have rather less than the industry average for paylines. If you’re unfamiliar with the dynamics of slot gaming, it’s useful to find a slot-game provider and check the website for the typical average of paylines for five-reel slot gameplay. This one states anything from 25-50 paylines is the norm, even if the entire spectrum spans from 9-100 paylines.

Shen Long Mi Bao

Like Mahjong Ways 2, Shen Long Mi Bao is another video slot that has experiential Chinese elements within it. From the moment this game loads, you’ll see an impressive golden dragon that looks incredibly fierce, with bright red eyes. This is the game’s wild symbol. In Chinese culture, a dragon is seen as a source of power or good luck. The dragon is also one of the most popular years of a Chinese New Year, which brings the Chunjie theme into play.

The base game symbols within Shen Long Mi Bao also feature Chinese-inspired gems, including more dragon-based jewelry and a golden shield that remains a common celebration of the story of medieval Asia – from its artistic roots through to its religious beliefs.

Associations with Chinese culture in iGaming help to make the world feel a smaller place, giving gamers a chance to feel and experience a culture and traditions that may be new to them.

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An Easy Guide To Choosing An Online Casino

Every kind of business is going online nowadays, and casinos are no different. Online casinos allow their players to place bets on a wide variety of games from the comfort of their own homes. There are thousands of online casinos online, and this presents a bit of a challenge when trying to find a reputable and safe one. So as not to get overwhelmed by the sea of available options, here are some things to look out for if you want to have a fun and safe gambling experience. 

https://unsplash.com/photos/bYtIpXnzsQM

Review Their Reputation

It is unfortunately pretty commonplace for illegitimate casinos to not have over winnings to players, totally scamming them. Even so, this is not something that one should just accept as fact. The research you do before putting your money into an online casino really matters. Look at reviews and ask around on online forums. Do not forget to check the accounts of the people who only have positive things to say about a certain casino, as they might be bots or individuals with a vested interest in the entity. 

Make Sure It’s Licensed

A license gives great credibility to a casino. It means that the casino has met certain standards and guidelines in order to operate in a certain country. This ensures that betting games really are randomized and that they’re more likely to let you cash out. Also, when dealing with a licensed casino, you are able to contact a regulator in case the casino is in breach of any of those guidelines. 

It Has a Wide Variety of Games 

In order to maximize your chances of winning some money, it is best to focus on getting good at a select few games. If you have prior experience with gambling, you know it is important to use that expertise to your advantage and not let it go to waste. Although it seems like most pay-and-play casinos have a wide selection of games, you should double-check to make sure that your favorite game is on there too. You can try out something new once in a while too, but it’s good to have a signature game to come back to. 

It Has Good Customer Support

The importance of a good customer support system can not be overstated when it comes to online casinos. You might run into a problem with the website or just need some clarification on the terms and conditions. Having your concerns addressed in a timely manner will be a huge weight off your shoulders and will make you feel more comfortable in dealing with that specific casino.

https://unsplash.com/photos/Q59HmzK38eQ

Online casinos are a fun and convenient way to try your luck at some games. There is a myriad of online casinos nowadays, but so many shut down and start up on a monthly basis. That’s why you should be keen on examining certain important factors before settling on your online casino of choice. You should also make sure that your fun isn’t marred by subpar security or fraudulent websites. 

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Watch the New Trailer for the South Korean thriller ‘Paid in Blood’ – hitting Hi-YAH! on June 17 then on Digital on July 26

"Paid in Blood" Hi-YAH! Poster

“Paid in Blood” Hi-YAH! Poster

On June 17th, South Korean thriller Paid in Blood (read our review), will debut exclusively on the martial arts action streaming service Hi-YAH! before hitting Digital only on July 26th from Well Go USA Entertainment.

Directed by Yoon Young-Bin, Paid in Blood (aka Tomb of the River) stars Yoo Oh Sung (Friend), Jang Hyuk (The Swordsman), Oh Dae Hwan (RV: Resurrected Victims) and Park Sung Keun (The Man Standing Next).

Read the official details below:

PLANO, TEXAS (June 9, 2022) – PAID IN BLOOD, which according to HanCinema “pays homage to the Korean crime thrillers of the two previous Continue reading

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A Complete Guide for a Beginner Crypto Investor

Did you know that nearly fifty million Americans say that they plan to buy crypto for the first time within the next year?

Even though the value of many cryptocurrencies is down in 2022, experts say that they are here to stay and will only become more important in the future. This is why it’s such a good idea to start investing in cryptocurrencies as quickly as you can.

The problem that many people face is that they don’t know what it takes to become a crypto investor. To help you out, we’ve written a guide. Keep reading if you want to find out more.

Know What You’re Getting Into Before Making a Your First Crypto Investment 

No matter what kind of investment you choose to make, it’s essential that you get your facts straight before making any decisions. This is an especially important thing to do with cryptocurrencies because they are so new and because there are so many of them.

The most popular coins include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and Dogecoin. Each of these coins has its strengths and its weaknesses.

Bitcoin is by far the most well-known coin, which is why it is so easy to use to perform transactions. You can find out more about the benefits of using a Bitcoin ATM here.

Remember that Cryptocurrencies Can Be Volatile 

It’s possible for cryptocurrencies to drop in value within a matter of minutes. On the other hand, their values can also quickly skyrocket.

This is why you should keep track of every crypto investment that you make. By doing this, you’ll be ready to make quick trading decisions when you need to.

Crypto Investing: Never Invest More than You’re Able to Lose 

If you are not able to lose the money that you invest, you shouldn’t be investing it. Therefore, make sure that you have the money that you need to be stored in a savings account so that it will be there when you need it. Make a promise to yourself that you won’t use any of this money for making investments.

Don’t Try to Predict the Future by Looking to the Past  

One of the most common mistakes made by those who are investing in crypto for the first time is assuming that just because a certain cryptocurrency grew in value in the past, it will continue to do so in the future.

Instead, you should try to make investment decisions that are based on what is likely to bring future returns. You can find this out by doing as much research as possible about cryptocurrencies that you’re thinking about purchasing.

Become a Crypto Investor Today 

If you’ve been wondering how to become a crypto investor, keep in mind how important it is to do plenty of research before getting started. You should also know that the values of cryptocurrencies can be highly volatile.

If you are interested in finding out more about cryptocurrencies, make sure to check out our blog.

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Types of Online Slot Games

Did you know that the average professional gambler can make $50,500 a year?

Online slot games can be fun, but they can also help you learn about the gambling industry. Knowing about slot machines will enrich your gambling experience. You won’t feel blindsided if you’re lucky enough to win.

Slot machines have been popular for years, and they have a lot of different concepts. Online slots are slightly more complex and can teach much about the game.

Slots are one of the most popular casino games and can be found in casinos all over the world. They are also one of the most accessible games and don’t require special skills or strategies to win. There are many different online slot games, each with unique features and rules.

Keep reading to learn more!

Five-Reel Slots

The most common type of online slot is the five-reel slot. These slots have five vertical reels that spin independently and have a variety of symbols on them.

Players must line up matching symbols to win. Five-reel slots usually have more complex patterns and may also have bonus features that can be triggered by lining up special symbols.

Three-Reel Slots

Three-reel slots are the simplest type of online slots game. There are only three reels and usually only one pay line.

Players simply need to line up three matching symbols to win. These slots are typically less expensive to play and have smaller jackpots.

Progressive Slots

Progressive slots are a type of online slots game where the jackpot grows more significant as more people play.

A portion of each bet is added to the jackpot, which can eventually become quite large. These slots are usually more expensive to play but can offer huge payouts.

Online Slot Games: Bonus Slots

Bonus slots are online slots games that offer players the chance to win extra prizes. These slots usually have special bonus symbols that, when lined up, trigger a bonus game.

Bonus games can be anything from a simple game of chance to a more complex puzzle. These slots are usually more expensive to play but can offer great payouts.

Video Slots

Many online casinos, such as www.zetbet.com, offer video slots. You can play these online slot machines using your computer or mobile device. You can find video slots at most online casinos, and they are a great way to enjoy slots without having to travel to a casino.

Most video slots have exciting themes and features. You can find slots based on popular movies, TV shows, video games, and more. Many video slots also offer great bonus features that can help you win more money.

If you enjoy playing slots, video slots are a great option. They are easy to play, and new and exciting titles are constantly released.

Chicken Dinner!

There are many other online slot games, each with unique features. These are just a few of the most common types of slots you’ll find online.

With so many options available, there is sure to be a game that is perfect for you. So, what are you waiting for? Start spinning and winning today!

For more online casino articles, check out our blog!

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Prisoners of the Ghostland (2021) Review

"Prisoners of the Ghostland" Theatrical Poster

“Prisoners of the Ghostland” Theatrical Poster

Director: Sion Sono
Cast: Nicolas Cage, Sofia Boutella, Ed Skrein, Tak Sakaguchi, Bill Moseley, Nick Cassavetes, Yuzuka Nakaya, Young Dais, Koto Lorena, Jai West, Cici Zhou
Running Time: 103 min.

By Henry McKeand

When talking or writing about Nicolas Cage, the word “extreme” inevitably comes up. In some ways, it has defined his career, leading to a perhaps unfair reputation as an overactor. This reputation, coupled with memes and viral videos and a glut of direct-to-video sludge necessitated by his own poor financial planning, led to Cage becoming a punchline for legions of uninspired internet humorists. Recently, thanks to roles in films such as Mandy, Color Out of Space, and Pig, Cage has rebounded from this career low point. Even his most gonzo performances are being reappraised by those who once wrote him off as a one-note has-been. Recently, his celebrity image and brand of extreme, expressionistic acting, which he calls “Nouveau Shamanic,” were reclaimed by the self-referential The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, in which he played a version of himself. It seems that Cage has found power in leaning into the joke. 

For those (this writer included) who view him as one of the greatest film stars of all time, this is mostly a good thing, but the Cage renaissance is not without its caveats. Because, by embracing his wide-eyed Wicker Man image, Cage runs the risk of losing a piece of what once made his career so special: down-to-Earth likeability. His admirers often talk about his electric work in Bringing Out the Dead and Wild at Heart, but his greatest trick was always his ability to dial it back Continue reading

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Golden Harvest classic, Korean thriller, Tony Jaa and Scott Adkins: Here’s what’s on Hi-YAH for the month of June!

Hi-YAH!, Well Go USA’s very own Asian/martial arts streaming channel has just announced their New Release line up for the month of June, which includes a New title added to Hi-YAH! every Friday.

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 titles Continue reading

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