[2024.05.11] FILM DEBUT SCARES THE WITS OUT OF CHRISTY LAI

Christy Lai and Odilia Chan attended the movie premiere.
courtesy of on.cc

Christy Lai, Terry Zou and Kaylee Yu
courtesy of mingpao.com

The premiere of the movie NO SUCH PERSON (CHA MO JI YUN) was held its premiere at Causeway Bay two night ago. Actors Terry Zou (Chow Man Ching), Kaylee Yu Hoi Kei, Christy Lai Kei Kwan, Odilia Chan Sin Yu, Deon Cheung Chung Chi and others attended. Chow Man Ching started as a singer. He has been in the industry for nearly 19 years and has participated in many movies. This was his first first male lead in a film, which made he feel excited and nervous at the same time. He also said that he was so happy that he was "excited before it began". The role in the film this time was both loyal and treacherous, which was a great challenge. He and lead actress Yu Hoi Kei had no intimate scene, but he received comments that his acting skills have improved slightly Under the guidance of the director and he as very happy. The movie was about fraud; he had to deceive both men and women, even had to defraud them out of money. "But not sex." He joked. Have they ever experienced being cheated in real life? Lai Kei Kwan said that she often received scam text messages and was almost deceived once. Fortunately, relationship wise she has not been hurt yet. Chow Man Ching joked that he had to have a relationship in order to be "fooled". He has not had any romance for many years, so he focused on her career.

Chow Man Ching and lead actress Yu Kai Kei had many struggle action scenes; but he said that he could not even kill a mosquito, so he had some difficulties with hitting a woman. "Everyone is pushing each other, hitting a woman requires special training and I relied on the action director and the director's instructions." As for Lai Kei Kwan, for her first movie the most unforgettable scene was the cliff jumping scene. She was a little worried when she received the script. She stood on the edge of the cliff, which eventually a stunt double jumped off of and ended up with blood on both legs. "Although there was a stunt double filming the scene, I was shocked to see the bleeding during filming." She panicked somewhat, but she said that she still wanted to try being an action actress. In the film, she had an intimate and ambiguous scene with Yu Kai Kei, in which they played in the water. The scenes were mainly aesthetic and the scale was not excessive. Of course, both of them took wardrobe malfunction precaution during the performance.

[2024.05.10] DIRECTOR SOI CHEANG IS AFRAID THAT HE WOULD NOT HAVE MOVIES TO MAKE IN THE FUTURE

Soi Cheang says that only by helping the boss break even would film professionals have a way out, and urges viewers to strongly support the film

Soi Cheang won the Hong Kong Film Awards Best Director for MAD FATE

The director says that the 72 year old Sammo Hung is braver than most

Soi Cheang is drawn to Raymond Lam's chok look

Philip Ng receives the director's compliment for his unrestrained and crazy performance 

Soi Cheang personally shaves Richie Jen's head
courtesy of mingpao.com

Director Soi Cheang Pou Soi won the Hong Kong Film Awards for Best Director for MAD FATE (MING ONG). His new film TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN (GAU LUNG SING JAI JI WAI SING) followed the momentum with a recent release and has won a lot of praise. It has exceeded HK$ 30 million in 9 days of release and has been selected for the 77th Cannes Film Festival "Midnight Screening Section". Cheang Pou Soi gave credit to the fighting spirit of both the cast and the crew. He even revealed that he was frightened by "Big Brother Big" Sammo Hung Kam Bo's dangerous stunt design of wrapping a metal wire around his own neck. He also mentioned that he used Raymond Lam Fung heavily this time because of his Chok presence on stage. However, behind the glory Chenag Pou Soi did ont dare to say the word "success", saying that he has encountered many setbacks due to the epidemic. In addition, the world had many unknown. Full of worries about the development prospects, "I am very afraid that there would be no more movies to make in the future! "

TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN (GAU LUNG SING JAI JI WAI SING) is adapted from Yu Yi's novel CITY OF DARKNESS and Szeto Kin Kiu's comic book of the same name, a story of the Kowloon Walled City in the past that was packed with action. Because the film contained foul language and bloody scenes, it was rated IIB for release. Cheang Pou Soi joked, "It's the clean version, trying to keep the original flavor and personal style as much as possible. It's a little bit bloody, just like when Chu Pak Hong threw a female drug addict off a building. It has been edited out." He said that the entire production from creation to filming and release took eight years of hard work and a cost of HK$ 300 million. The Kowloon Walled City alone took three months to build. "After the filming was completed, the crew said that they would use a plow truck to knock down the set. I am known as the king of additional shoots, but I didn't have any chance to make up the scenes. However I immediately took my camera to shoot what I thought might be valuable, as I planned to edit a director's version and put it online to share with the fans. I have to find a way to drum up business at the box office." He appealed to the audience to show up and support the film, in hopes of maintaining the ecology of the film and entertainment industry. "Only by helping the boss break even would film professional find a way out. I too am very afraid that there would be no more movies to film in the future!"

Cheang Pou Soi said that the epidemic has been very damaging to film work. When he made MAD FATE (MING ONG) in 2020 he felt the most helpless. The next year when TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN started production there are still many things up in the air, which added to his worries. Even now after the release when the film has won word of mouth and he got some comfort, he still did not dare to say that becoming a Hong Kong Film Awards Best Director meant that he would be a box office guarantee. He said, "How would I dare to think about success, not failing is already great. Box office results depend on luck. LIMBO (JI CHI) had good word of mouth too, but its box office was only HK$ 2.2 million. I didn’t expect it to be as low as this! At the time due to the epidemic, the film participated in foreign film festivals online but was pirated and spread online like mad. We found the person who stole the film, but he refused to take it down. We had no idea which country the server was located in. When it was released in theaters, many people have already watched it online. "

Cheang Pou Soi revealed that when he was originally invited by producer Chan Law Chiu to make TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN, he worried that he would not be able to and once he turned down the film contract. Then Chan Law Chiu dragged the film producer John Chong Ching to lobby him. Cheang Pou Soi said, "Building the Walled City would be quite a big project, quite difficult to deal with; it would require a lot of power, and it would have to face a lot of comic book and novels readers. How many changes could be made while adapting it into a movie? I went back to have a meeting with the other producer, (Wilson) Yip Wai Shun and them team to look into it. I wanted to give special thanks to (Gordon) Lam Ka Tung, who grew up in the Walled City, for introducing me to many of his Walled City old neighbors. As a result, I was drawn to the Walled City, and found that this place that was once listed as lawless was not as chaotic as the historical films mde it out to be. It even had a lot of humanity, which made me very motivated to do this, to bring out the message through the movie."

TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN was an action film, Cheang Pou Soi had certain difficulty in balancing the martial arts and comic book elements. He said, "The finale is the most difficult to make. To achieve a continuous transition, it is the culmination of hundreds of schools of thought; I tried to come up with ideas with screenwriters and the stunt team, to the point that I almost wanted to die. Fortunately, (Wilson) Yip Wai Shun helped out. I also didn't expect that the 'Four Little Dragons' to be hiding in the dressing room for a meeting. They suggested the throat slash move with a knife to shake loose my brain. I gave Lam Fung a pair of chocolate glasses for an eye shield, which he really liked. He kept studying someone would fight with a mask on, which made the filming fun amid all the hardship."

Choosing Lam Fung, Terrance Lau Chun Him, Tony Wu Tsz Tung and German Cheung Man Kit, who is good at martial arts, to play the Four Little Dragons, Cheang said that no one forced him to; it was purely his own wish. He saw that they have the potential to take over the film industry and he was very satisfied with their performance in this collaboration. "After watching Raymond Lam's concert and his CHOK music video, I was deeply impressed by his ability to perform Chok on stage. I felt that he has many possibilities, and he has certain acting skills coming from television. He is so smart. I showed him the UNDER THE LION ROCK refugee story and he figures out how to play the role." He also revealed that Lam Fung brought whiskey to work, to establish brotherhood with his three co-stars. "After putting on makeup, Lam Fung Raymond would have a few drinks with them to relax. The atmosphere was very harmonious. I thought it was OK. They gave everything they could give, and never missed a scene due to drinking. Ultimately filming fight scenes everyday would make them very tense. Lam Fung fought so much that the muscles in his back cramped up and he couldn't stand up straight. Even when he had to limp his way back he did. Wu Tsz Tung after getting 15 stitches on his chin still returned to work."

The 72-year-old "Big Brother Big" Hung Kam bo also starred. Even though he had an old knee problem, he still worked hard to fight with Koo Tin Lok and Ng Won Lung. Cheang Pou Soi said that years ago when he directed THE MONKEY KING 2 (SAI YAU GEI ji SUEN NG HUNG SAM DA BAK GWUT JING), Big Brother Big was an action director. He never thought that Hung would be more courageous when performing in front of the camera. "In one scene he was fighting Ng Won Lung, he proposed to use a metal wire to strangle his neck and then spin it twice for effect. Wow, I was terrified; I was afraid that if I wouldn't cut it off then I was in trouble. I just asked someone to pretend to hold on to the metal wire and leave some space, as long as it looked OK on the screen it was fine." He also praised Goo Jai and Yam Yin Chai for playing old roles without any idol baggage. Goo Jai even provided a lot of ideas for the characters. The only thing he was worried about was that he would fight with Big Brother Big, and did not want to see anyone get hurt. He said, "Goo Jai is very careful; even Big Brother Big couldn't help but teach him how to hit him. We would always paid full attention to the elder, rush over to see if anything was alright as soon as we yelled cut."

Siu Chai shaved his head for the performance and had a fight scene with Lam Fung. Cheang Pou Soi said, "Siu Chai is a great person. He wanted to help the crew and save time on makeup. I personally shaved his hair and saw him very relaxed. Later when he heard that he was going to film a fight scene and take a beating from Lam Fung, he was instantly stunned."

In addition to Aaron Kwok's special performance, Ng Won Lung and Kenny Wong Tak Bun also created unique villain image and left an impression. Cheang Pou Soi was rather pleased with this, "This film has many characters, but none of them are extra. Since I invited them to perform, I too wanted them to make a breakthrough. Ng Won Lung's performance was so unrestrained and crazy. Tak Bun was stunned when he heard that he was going to do a fighting scene. Because he was not good at fighting, I asked him to learn crane fist on the spot."

[2024.05.09] PHILIP NG "HOPS" TO FIGHT SAMMO HUNG

Philip Ng reveals several neighbors called him by his character name, which warmed his heart

German Cheung, Tony Wu and Raymond Lam promote TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN
courtesy of on.cc

courtesy of singtao.com

Raymond Lam has a little fun at the expense of Philip Ng over his audience appreciation incident

German Cheung, Raymond Lam and Tony Wu share their experience with students at the film exhibition
courtesy of mingpao.com

The fresh out of the oven Hong Kong Film Award-winning director Soi Cheang Pou Soi's new film TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN (GAU LUNG SING JAI JI WAI SING) has recently set off a long-lost craze for Hong Kong action movies in Hong Kong and the mainland. In the 8 days since the film was released, its Hong Kong box office has exceeded HK$ 27 million, and the mainland box office has grossed 380 million yuan RMB; it even became the single-day box office champion for two consecutive days. The attraction of the film was not only the re-creation of the Walled city scenery, but also the breathtaking action scenes and the delicate portrayal of human nature. It was a Hong Kong action film with a dramatic flavor. In the film, Philip Ng Won Lung changed his acting style and portrayed the villain "Wong Gau" in an exaggerated and crazy style; from which he also received great praise and was even expected to compete for the Hong Kong Film Award for Best Supporting Actor. Ng Won Lung hoped that the success of TWILIGHT would create more opportunities for action actors, and said that taking the action film baton would depends on the opportunity. He was not afraid of "being challenged."

Ng Won Lung has a close connection with "The Walled City". Eight years ago, his portrayal of the quiet "Cat Boy" in the TVB series A FIST WITHIN FOUR WALLS left a deep impression on the audience. This time, the role of "Wong Gau" in the movie TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN made the audience look at him differently. Ng Won Lung also said that at dinner with his mother in Mong Kok a few days ago, someone recognized him and even said to him, "You have changed from Cat Boy to Wong Gau!" What warmed his heart the most was, "As an actor, I have a role to play. I wouldn't think about the results when filming. The director gives us direction and we do our jobs to help the director tell the story well."

Ng Won Lung frankly said that he has always been a loyal fan of director Cheang Pou Soi. Looking back on the first and second meetings with him, he did not mention having a role for him. He only revealed that he would make a Hong Kong action film and needed to find Hong Kong kung fu actors to perform. By the third time they met, Cheang Pou Soi formally invited him to play "Wong Gau", but explained that it was a villain role. He wanted him to play it so that even the audience would not be able to recognize him, which made him even more excited. However, he has been criticized for his stiff acting in the past. This time as "Wong Gau" he was bad in a crazy and exaggerated manner. Not only did the audience not feel disgusted, but they were also optimistic that he would be nominated for the "Best Supporting Actor" at the Hong Kong Film Awards. Was he proud of this time? He said bluntly: "I have made more than 40 movies. In the past, I always played traditional action heroes that had certain framework; I might have to be relatively silent and not expressive. T his time, my exaggeration almost crossed the line. The first attemnpt actually had its danger. If it went too far it would be gross. If it was not done enough, it wouldn't meet the director's demands." However, on the first day of shooting, he admitted that he was not able to get into the character yet. It was not until the second day that he saw the director's reaction, the on-site staff impersonated him with a smile. He then knew that everyone would feel this kind of performance was interesting. He said that during filming, Director Soi would ask him for five versions of "Wong Gau"'s reaction, and then choose one from them. "We didn't push the actors like the rumors said, we just played very seriously. He also communicates with every actor in this way. He is a very different kind of director, so everyone's performances are very different too."

Regarding the final battle with the "Four Sons of the Walled City" Lam Fung, Wu Tsz Tung, Cheung Man Kit and Lau Chun Him, did they have any "give and take" in it? Ng Won Lung said that he would not hold back because the audience would be able to tell that they were not in a duel. Everyone would use all of their own skills and strength to cope with it. In addition, the quartet accepted a month of action training before and had enough preparation. While performing, they were not much different from working with martial arts actors. This time, Ng Won Long did not participate in the action design mainly out of respect for the action director Kenji Tanigaki. "I have requirements and experience on the action. At first I knew that my action would require "strange moves", which is not the hardcore kung fu I am good at. I had some concerns, but in the end, a balance between the two was achieved through communication.

Ng Won Lung was used to filming fight scenes, and this time he had the honor to fight with "Big Brother Big" Hung Kam Bo again. He praised Big Brother Big as a good "dance partner". "Fight scenes, like dancing, is about the rhythm. When working with Big Brother Big, if you can't do the moves he would help you complete it. I felt very comfortable working with him. He is a very experienced partner." When working with senior actors, his biggest worry was to not injure the elders. Big Brother Big was very professional and the filming was always very smooth. On the contrary, when he was filming an action of leaping over three steps of stairs, he heard a "pop" and could no longer stand up. The hamstring muscle that has been injured during previous filming was torn again, and he had to rest for a week before he was able to return to work.

TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN brought attention back to Hong Kong-produced action. Elders like Sammo Hung Kam Bo and Louis Koo Tin Lok even introduced a group of the younger generations to pass the torch to. Would Ng Won Lung be ale to take over the important task? He pointed out that taking over the baton would depend on the opportunity. Making a large-scale action film such as TWILOIGHT or RAGING FIRE (NO FOR) earlier is expensive and requires huge production budgets. Investors would be afraid that they would not make their money back, so they hoped that TWILIGHT would be successful and lead to even more mid-budget action film productions; which would be able to increase opportunities for more action actors to perform. Ng Won Lung said that he has previously set up a production company to promote scripts to different investors, but when the epidemic hit no one took any interest. At that time he felt very depressed. Later a foreign producer said that it did not matter if he heard a hundred "NO"s; just one "YES" was all it took. It was very encouraging, and finally someone came to discuss scripts; and the movie MO MING FOR (NAMELESS FIRE) was completed. Regarding the lack of action actors to take over, Ng Won Lung admitted that it was somewhat lacking but there were also many people in Hong Kong who were good at kung fu; just being good at kung fu and filming action scenes were two different matter, and more importantly, acting skills were also important, "However the birthplace of kung fu movies is Hong Kong. Hong Kong really needs to strive for success, and I hope this time would be able to revive the craze of action movies in Hong Kong."

Speaking of Ng Won Lung's demonstration of the "inch impact" at an audience appreciation event a few days ago, a male audience member raised his hand to fight Ng Wong Lung and then took the initiative to "take advantage". Before Ng Won Lung was ready, he punched and kicked him and pushed him down; which became a hot topic online. Ng Won Lung had strong support for his martial art ethics. He smiled calmly and said, "I believe this viewer was too immersed into the movie and thought that I was the character 'Wong Gau'. This wasn't the first time that has happened." He pointed out that it happened to him before while promoting ONCE UPON A TIME IN SHANGHAI (NGOK JIN) in the mainland a few years ago. Something similar has happened before, but this time the actors were very surprised. "Even I wasn't prepared; but since no one was really hurt, I just wanted to resolve it as soon as possible. I had to go to the next theater for audience appreciation events afterward. Our goal is to promote the film, the most important is for the audience to like it."

When asked if this incident happened when he was younger, would he fight back? Ng Won Lung said with a smile: "The most important thing is to know what you were doing at the time. You were promoting a movie at that moment, you weren't trying to defend the martial arts gym. I believe that the other party was a little impulsive and had no ill intentions, but his way of expression wasn't the most appropriate." He would continue the audience appreciation tour in the future; he admitted that he would be more vigilant, but would not deliberately keep a distance from the audience. Ng Won Lung's father once opened a martial arts gym in the United States, and challenges to the gym often happened. "Of course it's not like in the movies. They usually came to test our martial arts skills. Often I was sent to meet them, Papa wouldn't take action." He said that he was used to competing with different sects, for those who came to "take advantage" he have to deal with them on behalf of the martial arts school. "The purpose of the competition is not to defeat the other party, but to understand through the competition what moves you are lacking. After the competition, everyone will gain something. It's not just about winning or losing."

Raymond Lam Fung, Tony Wu Tsz Tung and German Cheung Man Kit attended the TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN (GAU LUNG SING JAI JI WAI SING) film exhibition yesterday and interacted with the students on site to share details of the film production. Lam Fung revealed that the most unforgettable scene was a fight scene with Richie Jen (Yam Yin Chai). Not only did the ligament in his foot snap in half, but when he was trying out his position and the cameras were about to roll, he took a wrong step and accidentally fell straight from the second floor to the first floor and flew out of the shot. Fortunately, it was just a near miss. He got up and ran back to the second floor to continue the filming.

TWILIGHT's Hong Kong box office exceeded HK$ 27 million. Cheung Man Kit said that he has been watching the box office like the stock market everyday. He also joked that when he saw director Soi Cheang Pou Soi a few days ago, even he asked, "What kind of movie did I make? Why would it be like this? Even I wouldn't have guessed this." Were they confident that it would break the highest box office record for a Hong Kong movie? Lam Fung said, "Everyone has already done ther best and their fullest, I hope the audience will continue to support us." Wu Tsz Tong said, "We will let it to fate. Our goal isn't necessarily on the box office, but to start filming a sequel or to perform with the original team." Lam Fung said that of course if the box office would be better, the chance of getting another movie would be greater, but it is up to Director Soi to decide what to make. They would not mind what role they play. "We can make whatever, but if the team would be wasted on a dramatic team." It would be the best to continue making action movies to keep him moving, only that would be passionate enough; not to mention action movies are one of Hong Kong's specialties. "TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN took 4 months to make, the fighting was ferocious. During this period everyone got along very happily, so it didn't feel long at all." Lam Fung revealed that the film would hold a celebration in a few days, but believed that getting all the actors together would not be easy. Wu Tsz Tung pointed out that due to the epidemic they did not have a production wrap banquet. Cheung Man Kit immediately responded, "I have always minded not having a wrap banquet!" Wu Tsz Tung joked, "Don't make it hard on the director!"

As for Philip Ng Won Lung being "surprise attacked" by a male audience member and falling to the ground during an audience appreciation event but luckily was not injured, Lam Fung had a little fun at his expense. "A Master! Actually everyone consoled him. This time was unexpected. The audience really getting involved, people call me by my film name on the street. I am happy about that though." Would they keep a distance from the audience or cancel the interactive session in the future? Wu Tsz Tong believed that audience appreciation events were the best way to interact with the audience. However, after this incident, each actor would know how to be more vigilant. If something did not feel right, they will immediately keep their distance from the audience. The on-site emcee will also take care of the actors. Lam Fung joked that after filming TWILIGHT each actor have had certain level of skills, and they also know how to protect themselves. As for whether he would let children watch his performance, he said that his daughter was too young and he would not let her watch it for the time being.

[2024.05.09] FOR SUNDAY MAY 5 2024

For Sunday May 5 2024

10 FLY ME TO THE MOON
  Can : Dan Yuen Yun Cheung Gau
    d. Sasha Chuk Chi Ngan
    Wu Kang-Ren, Sasha Chuk Chi Ngan, Angela Yuen Lai Lam,
      Tse Wing-yan, Natalie Hsu (Hui Yan Yi)
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 114 mins.
  Opening October 23 2023 at the 36th Tokyo International Film Festival
  Opening November 12 2023 at the 20th Hong Kong Asian Film Festival
  Opening December 28 2023 (Preview)
  Opening April 11 2024
  Site : https://2023.tiff-jp.net/en/lineup/film/3602ASF01
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/uXqn9tCGx4c

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    In 1997, little sisters move to Hong Kong with their mother from Hunan to reunite with their father. However, what awaits them is not paradise, but poverty, identity crisis and a drug addicted father. To survive, they become pleasers. Entering teenage, the sisters start to resist, struggling between the family and their self-identity in development. Then as grown-ups, they realise how their childhood memories keep haunting their current lives. Produced by renowned director Stanley Kwan, Sasha Chuk's first feature tells a story of reconciliation with one's parents and oneself.

[ 36TH TOKYO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ]
    A family chronicle, spanning from 1997, the year of the handover of Hong Kong, to 2017, captures the life of a father and his daughter for 20 years. Produced by Stanley Kwan.

  9 KUNG FU PANDA 4
    d. Mike Mitchell, Stephanie Stine
    DreamWorks Animation
    English Voices: Jack Black, Awkwafina, Viola Davis,
      Dustin Hoffman, Bryan Cranston, James Hong, Ian McShane,
      Ke Huy Quan, Ronny Chieng, Lori Tan Chinn, Seth Rogen

  8 EXHUMA
    d. Jang Jae-hyng
    Lee Do-hyun, Kim Go-eun, Choi Min-sik, Yoo Hai-jin
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 132 mins.
  Opening April 11 2024

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    In Los Angeles, the renowned shaman Hwa-rim and her protege Bong-gil are commissioned with a hefty sum to meet the enigmatic descendants of a household afflicted by a peculiar illness. Sensing the ominous aura surrounding the ancestral grave, Hwa-rim urges for its relocation. The best geomancer in the business, Sang-duk, and mortician Young-geun, lured by the scent of money, join the team.

    "You all understand...what happens if we mess with the wrong grave."

    The mysterious grave, situated in an unapproachable sacred ground, holds dark secrets. Though Sang-duk senses an ominous presence and initially rejects the proposal, Hwa-rim’s persuasion ultimately initiates the exhumation, leading to a journey where the team must confront both supernatural forces and their own fears.

    Those that must remain buried have surfaced.

  7 HAIKYU!!: THE DUMPSTER BATTLE
    d. Mitsunaka Susumu
    Japanese Animation
  Rating : I
  Length : 85 mins.
  Opening April 11 2024
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/2k_36L-IS2E

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    The teaser trailer glimpses the initial encounter and subsequent development of friendship between Shoyo Hinata and Kenma Kozume, culminating in a decisive match on the volleyball court. With Shoyo Hinata's famous line: "Let's play a game that can't be repeated", the stage is set for 'The Dumpster Battle"!

  6 ALL SHALL BE WELL
  Can : Chung Gum Yi Hau
  Lit : From Now On
    d. Ray Yeung Yiu Hoi
    Patra Au Ga Man, Maggie Li Lin Lin, Tai Bo, Leung Chung Hang,
      Fish Liew Chi Yu, Rachel Leung Yung Ting,
      Hui So Ying, Na Mei Kwan, Lee Lai Ha,
      Yu Yuk Wa, Lai Chai Ming
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 93 mins.
  Opening March 28 2024 at the 48th Hong Kong International Film Festival
  Opening May 1 2024
  Site : https://www.berlinale.de/en/2024/programme/202402642.html
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/YzZfXu8iHnc

[ 2024 BERLIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ]
    When her partner Pat unexpectedly dies, Angie is left to worry about the flat in which the couple lived together for over 30 years. Supported by her chosen family, Angie begins a later-life journey into emancipation.

[ CINEMA CITY ]
    After her partner's unexpected death, a woman finds herself at the mercy of her partner's family as she struggles to find her balance and dignity while trying to retain the home they shared for over thirty years.

  5 CHUNG KING EXPRESS (4K RESTORED VERSION)
    d. Wong Kar Wai
    Brigitte Lin (Lam Ching Ha), Tony Leung Chiu Wai,
      Faye Wong, Takeshi Kaneshiro (Gum Sing Mo)
  Opening May 1 2024

[ HONG KONG MOVIE 6 ]
    On the first of May, a lady with a golden wig is targeted to be murdered at Chungking Mansion, a place renowned for cheap accommodation for travelers and immigrants. Maybe Detective no.223 is the only one who could remember her existence… There is a new waitress – Faye at the fast-food counter. She falls deeply for Detective no. 663, whose girlfriend leaves a letter with his apartment key at the shop one day to break up with him. Faye keeps the key and quietly gets into 663's apartment when he is out. She is never being discovered until one time she tries to help him re-stocking his daily amenities...

  4 THE ROUNDUP: PUNISHMENT
    d. Heo Myeong-haeng
    Don Lee, Kim Moo-yul, Park Ji-hwan, Lee Dong-hwi
    Rating : IIB
  Length : 109 mins.
  Opening May 1 2024
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/Iz0KhqQ7i1Y

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    While investigating a drug-trafficking app, "Monster Cop" Ma Seok-do and his team discover a connection between the app's developer, who was murdered in the Philippines, and an illegal online gambling organisation. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, Baek Chang-gi is controlling the Korean online illegal gambling market and spreading terror with kidnap, assault and murder. His partner, the IT genius Chang Dong-cheol, is planning an even larger scheme in Korea itself. To put an end to the escalating threat, Detective Ma expands his operation by proposing an unexpected alliance...The fourth instalment in the Roundup series.

  3 GUNDAM SEED FREEDOM
    d. Mitsuo Fukuda
    Japanese Animation
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 124 mins.
  Opening April 25 2024
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/xLFdFQh8LaI

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    In C.E.75, the fighting still continues. There are independence movements, and aggression by Blue Cosmos... In order to calm the situation, a global peace monitoring agency called COMPASS is established, with Lacus as its first president. As members of COMPASS, Kira and his comrades intervene into various regional battles. Then a newly established nation called Foundation proposes a joint operation against a Blue Cosmos stronghold.

  2 THE FALL GUY
    d. David Leitch
    Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt

  1 TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN
  AKA : KOWLOON WALLED CITY (Working title)
  Can : Gau Lung Sing Jai Wai Sing
    d. Soi Cheang Po Soi
    Louis Koo Tin Lok, Sammo Hung Kam Bo, Raymond Lam Fung,
      Terrance Lau Chun Him, Richie Jen (Yam Yin Chai),
      Kenny Wong Tak Bun, Philip Ng Won Lung,
      Tony Wu Tsz Tung, German Cheung Man Kit,
      Max Zhang Jin
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 125 mins.
  Opening May 1 2024
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/GCCP9WCjSxs

[ THE FILM CATALOGUE ]
    Set in the eighties inside the dangerous and enigmatic Kowloon Walled City, which was a de jure Chinese enclave within British colonial Hong Kong, Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In follows troubled youth Chan Lok-kwun as he accidentally enters the Walled City, discovers the order amidst its chaos, and learns important life lessons along the way. In the Walled City, he becomes close friends with Shin, Twelfth Master and AV. Under the leadership of Tornado, they resist against the invasion of villain Mr. Big in a series of fierce battles. Together, they vow to protect the safe haven that is Kowloon Walled City.

[ THE FILM CATALOGUE ]
    Adapted from the award-winning Hong Kong cult manga series "City of Darkness", this action thriller is set in the eighties inside the dangerous and enigmatic Kowloon Walled City which was a de jure Chinese enclave within British colonial Hong Kong.

    The walled city is populated by people in the lowest strata of society, among whom are various colorful and kung-fu savvy characters: e.g. a Vietnamese immigrant biding time for revenge, an ex-boxer on the lookout for his kidnapped girlfriend, a katana wielding martial arts boy wonder from Temple Street, as well as a local gang leader and his loyal friend. When the British Hong Kong government tries to demolish the Walled City once and for all with the help of a Triad kingpin and his ruffian underlings, they gather all the residents in the enclave behind them to fight against the invaders and protect their homes and properties

[2024.05.08] LI LINLIN: "THE DIRECTOR SAW ANOTHER SIDE OF ME."

Li Linlin returns to play the role of a lesbian after more than 30 years in the film industry. She did some homework before filming, carefully observed the same-sex couples she knew around her, and paid attention to their daily behavior. 

Li Linlin and Patra Au play loving partners who have lived together for decades

ALL SHALL BE WELL won the Teddy Award for Best Feature Film at the Berlin Film Festival earlier, and director Ray Yeung personally accepted the award 

The ALL SHALL BE WELL premiere took place last month. Li linlin was supported by her husband John Chiang (third left), son John Chiang Jr. and his girlfriend (left), daughter Chiang Yilan and son in law Raymond Cho

Li Linlin (left) praises director Ray Yeung (right) for his careful observation and careful setting of each character's mentality. She sees that both old and new actors know what they are doing.
courtesy of mingpao.com 

The 2019 movie SUK SUK tells the story of two men, each with a family, falling in love in their twilight years. Faced with conventional bias and moral struggles, director and screenwriter Yeung Yiu Hoi has made another new film ALL SHALL BE WELL (CHUNG GUM YI HAU) after 5 years. This time was from the perspective of a lesbian and explored the rights of LGBTQ+ people in Hong Kong today. The film earlier won the Berlin Film Festival Teddy Award for Best Feature Film. Yeung Yiu Hoi admitted that he was gay and presented the world he saw based on his feelings, saying that to a certain extent, his DNA was used in the filming. Li Linlin returned to play the role of a lesbian this time, not only because the script attracted her but also because of the encouragement of her husband John Chiang Dai Wai. She realized that "the addiction to acting was a hard habit to break", and she even talked about the experience of a "girl-girl" kiss in the film.

ALL SHALL BE WELL tells the story of Angie (Patra Au Ka Man) and her same-sex partner Pat (Li Linlin) who have lived together for 40 years. They have been an open couple. However when Pat suddenly passed away, because she did not make a will when she was alive, conflicts and frictions arose between Angie and Pat's family members as they dealt with posthumous matters and fought over property ownership. The film brutally revealed that human nature often became selfish and realistic for the sake of self-interest.

Li Linlin has been away from acting for more than 30 years. This time she came back for ALL SHALL BE WELL (CHUNG GUM YI HAU), which was the first time she has played a lesbian in her career. In addition to the fresh script and the attractive subject matter, it would also be able to arouse the public's attention to the rights of same-sex couples and also remind everyone "do they want to do now and don't procrastinate, otherwise things are unpredictable and sometimes it may be too late." Moreover, she liked SUK SUK very much. Even though she has never met Ray Yeung Yiu Hoi before, he still opened her eyes. "Husband John (Chiang Dai Wai) used to be a stunt person with Tai Bo. After watching the Tai Bo starred gay movie SUK SUK, the performance of each actor in the film left a deep impression. Then Director Yeung approached me with the ALL SHALL BE WELL story, which I was intrigued by after listening to it. Also my family encouraged me to give it a try, especially John Gor. After reading the synopsis, I thought making this type of subject would be very rare. I said, 'Acting is like taking drugs. Once addicted, it is difficult to quit. Whenever someone tempts me I get itchy’; it turns out it’s true!"

Li Linlin revealed that she knew many same-sex couples around her, both men and women. She believed that the topics when chatting with gay men were more open, while lesbians were more reserved. She also noticed their behavior in their everyday lives as homework for taking on the role of Pat. "Actually, Pat and I I have similar qualities. I am petite in stature. In the past, I mostly played more elegant or costumed characters; but the director saw another side of me, which was that no matter my behavior, the way I speak, or even what I wear daily, I am more androgynous; and my personality has always been independent, and I was even bolder when I was young. However now that I am older and my health is not as good as before, I need my family to take care of me more."

At the end of the film, Angie recalled hiking with Pat. The two talked about old times and couldn't help but kiss each other. The process was natural and smooth, without any sense of abruptness and disobedience, which showed the professionalism of the actors. Li Linlin said that the sky was clear when filming the scene, in which they expressed their feelings at the reservoir; but suddenly it started to rain, so they walked into the pavilion to wait. The sky was dark at the time, and everyone felt that it matched the atmosphere and thought the result would be better than when the sun was shining brightly; thus creating that scene. "At the beginning, the director asked us to touch each other a little. I made eye contact with Au Ka Man during the dialogue, I naturally held up her face with one hand and kissed her gently; but later I felt that it was not enough. Since the two of us were so close and affectionate from the bottom of our hearts, I really wanted to protect her, so we kissed again naturally. At that moment, Ka Man and I weren't embarrassed at all, and the process was smooth sailing in one take." Li Linlin didn't have any specific subject matter in her mind she wanted to shoot. She believed that a successful movie requires a good script, good actors, a good director and the cooperation of a behind-the-scenes team. She claimed that today's film industry belonged to newcomers, praising the young and new generation actors in the film for being very professional and dedicated.

Li Linlin once defeated cancer. After recovering, she felt very lazy and did not do things for fear of losing motivation in life. "After recovering from the illness, I didn't develop a habit of doing exercise. Because I have a cheerful and optimistic personality, I believe that birth, old age, illness and death are inevitable in life. It is very important to maintain a positive attitude towards life while facing it with the mentality that it's no big deal." She recalled that her family took good care of her when she was seriously ill. Her son-in-law, Raymond Cho Wing Lim, was so considerate; he cooked for her every week.

Li Linlin's 28-year-old son, John Chiang Jr. (Chiang Cheuk Man) has devoted himself to the entertainment industry and worked on music and film. She encouraged her son to boldly pursue his dreams and decide his future path only if he would have no results after two years. At present, John Chiang Jr. and his girlfriend have a stable relationship but it is still too early to start a family. Li Linlin said, "You must first be able to support yourself before you are qualified to talk about starting a family. If you want to have a family, you have to take responsibility. Would you still have to rely on your parents? Wait until you some results in your career first. Let nature take its course, I'm not in a hurry to be a mother in law!"

Director Ray Yeung Yaiu Hoi did some research before starting the filming of ALL SHALL BE WE (CHUNG GUM YI HAU). Only after reviewing clips of Li Linlin's previous performances did he lock in on her for the role. He was confident that he has chosen the right person, "I saw her playing an independent and modern woman in FIVE EASY PIECES, bringing French comedy humor to TEA FOR TWO, the cross dressing in BUTTERFLY LOVERS, I found that Li Linlin would be OK as a man. So I contacted her through John Gor. We met to discuss the script, and when she agreed to perform I was really very happy." Yeung Yiu Hoi said that he has arranged auditions with other actresses, but Li Linlin was definitely his favorite. In fact, when he attended the Berlin Film Festival, he received no complaints from lesbian organizations about the actors not being convincing enough. In addition the reviews for this movie has been decent. Through the protagonist of the film's story, Yeung Yiu Hoi drew public attention to LGBTQ+ social issues and spoke out for gays to fight for equal rights. "I understand that making this type of subject is more difficult than making other films, but I feel that I have a sense of duty to." As a gay man himself, he gave an example "The processes of raising funds and finding actors are difficult. You seem to have to jump through hoops and even answer to the distributors. Although it is difficult, you have to continue filming; because if you don't mention it, no one may bring it up again. I really want to use my own feelings as a gay person to present the world I see, so to a certain extent, my DNA is used to make the movie." He revealed that ALL SHALL BE WELL took about 4 years from script writing, preparation, production to release. He has always maintained his passion for the movie, otherwise it would have been difficult to persevere.

When asked about in the film the family members who, in order to get back the inheritance from Pat, damaged the good relationship they have established with Angie for many years. What was the price of family ties? Yeung Yiu Hoi said that he wanted the audience to reflect on that, "If Pat was really a man, the result might be different; mainly because same-sex couples are still considered abnormal in today's world, Pat and Angie's relationship is like fog, without any qualification or status; the society has not yet accepted them. Therefore, when a same-sex partner dies, not to mention the right to open the safety deposit box and handle the posthumous affairs; even Pat's family members, each for their own interests, worked together to kick Angie out and competed for the property under Pat's name. It all felt so natural." He reminded the public of an important message, which is to think carefully before facing life and death; making a will in advance can avoid family disputes over property. Yeung Yiu Hoi understood that some people were hesitant or afraid of making a will, but he believed that the sooner action would be taken, the better. He has already made a will early to save himself from future worries.

[2024.05.08] FOR THE WEEK STARTING SATURDAY, MAY 4 2024

For the week starting Saturday, May 4 2024 (Week 18)

VIUTV CHILL CLUB CHART

  5 YOU GOTA SCREW UP AT LEAST ONCE
  Can : Ji Siu Jo Yut Gein Lei Po Dik Si
  Kiri T

https://youtu.be/RPoNXvSFHE4

  4 BF
  George Au Chun Ho

https://youtu.be/7qvDfzjVSUA

  3 LET'S MAKE THE STUPID FAMOUS
  ToNick

https://youtu.be/BElXrcvJrWI

  2 FORTUNE OF THREE LIVES
  Can : Sam Sun Yau Hung
  Yan Ting Chow

https://youtu.be/3KRoczsPIFU

  1 MELANCHOLY PEN
  Can : But Jook Nam Hai Yau Wut Ji Sei
  Jer Lau Ying Ting

https://youtu.be/l0XMhIYSbEI

[2024.05.07] LI LINLIN SLURPS UP PATRA AU

Li Linlin returns to acting after 30 years. She says she is afraid of being left behind, so she is very teachable.

courtesy of singtao.com

Away from film for more than 30 years, Li Linlin once again "came back" to play the female lead in the movie ALL SHALL BE WELL (CHUNG GUM YI HAU). Sister Linlin even played a rare lesbian role, with her co-star Patra Au Ka Man she played a couple who have been together for decades. When filming a kiss scene, Sister Linlin even threw down her shackles and kissed hard.

SUK SUK's director Ray Yeung Yiu Hoi cast Li Linlin and Patra Au Ka Man to play the gay couple. The story was about two people who have lived together for decades. Unfortunately, one of them suddenly passed way. In addition to the pain of losing her partner, the remaining person had to face the pressure from her partner's family over funeral arrangements and attempts to fight for inheritance.

Li Linlin has not acted for more than 30 years, how did Yeung Yiu Hoi think of inviting her to perform? Yeung Yiu Hoi said that he has always wanted to find an actor with a strong presence and aura to play the role of Pat. He laughed and said that he had seen her character in FIVE EASY PIECES, where she was independent, tomboyish, fresh and modern; disguised as a boy she was not look too fake, stylish yet feminine. She really felt like Pat. Thus he approached her through John Chiang Dai Wai. Li Linlin said that after reading the ALL script, she was also very drawn to the story. In addition the genre was unique and brought out a positive message. Her husband Chiang Dai Wai also encouraged her, so she agreed to perform. Acting again after more than 30 years, Li Linlin admitted that she felt nervous not about facing the camera, but that she was outdated. "I was afraid that I was out, ultimately the performance methods then and now are very different. Luckily the director would remind me, at some spots I would have to take it easy, don't enunciate too clearly. I've been teachable, haha."

Li Linlin and Au Ka Man had a kiss scene in the film. Li Linlin said that the shoot was very natural and the atmosphere was very good. "Although it was my first time working with Au Ka Man, she was very dramatic and I really liked this woman. Originally it was just a light kiss, but I thought it wasn't enough so I kissed her harder with another. The shooting was originally done by a pond, but due to the rain we moved the shoot to a pavilion. With the gray sky it instead suited the atmosphere." Sister Linlin said that her husband after watching the film praised it. She laughed and pointed out that since they were both actors, they would understand that the kiss scene was necessary for the plot. She joked, "If he feels it was inappropriate he would be unprofessional!"