[2021.12.01] FOR THE WEEK ENDING SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28 2021

For the week ending Sunday November 21 2021

Photos courtesy of Yahoo! Movies Hong Kong

10 LIMBO
  Can : JI CHI
  Lit : WISDOM TOOTH
    d. Soi Cheang Po Shui
    Gordon Lam Ka Tung, Cya Liu, Mason Lee,
      Fish Liew Chi Yu, Sammy Sum Chun Hin,
      Hanna Chan, Kumer So (Fui Hung), Hiroyuki Ikenuchi
  Rating : III
  Length : 118 mins.
  Opening March 1 2021 at the Berlin International Film Festival 2021
  Opening October 9 2021 at the Soi Movie Parade
  Opening Ocotber 17 2021 (Preview)
  Opening November 18 2021
  Site : https://www.berlinale.de/en/programme/202101272.html
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/LBy9MdK6zvw

[ THE FILM CATALOGUE ]
    A serial killer is on the loose. Under public pressure to solve the case, the police reinstate veteran detective JIN on active duty and assign him to the case with rookie cop KAI. However, Jin's past returns to haunt him when he encounters TAO, the girl who killed Jin's wife and child in an accident. To redeem herself, Tao volunteers to work for Jin on the case. However, Jin can't control his hatred for the person who destroyed his life. As the idealistic Kai and the emotionally unstable Jin clash over their vastly different investigation styles and Jin's abusive attitude towards Tao, the truth becomes increasingly blurred...

  9 THE FIRST GIRL I LOVED
  Can : Hei Fun Nei Si Nei
  Lit : Like You For You
  AKA : Today
  AKA : Mau Yut Tin Mau Dei Dim Joi Gein
  Lit : On A Certain Day and Certain Place See You
    d. Ng Wing Shan, Yeung Chiu Hoi
    Hedwig Tam Sin Yin, Renci Yeung Sze Wing,
      Stephen Au Kam Tong, Willie Wai Kar Hung,
      Teresa Mak Fong Kiu (Mak Ka Kei),
      Kelvin Chan Kinlong, Kama Tam Sun Tung
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 93 mins.
  Opening November 2 2021 at the Hong Kong Asian Film Festival
  Opening November 6 2021 (Preview)
  Opening November 25 2021
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/KxetEwDypHY
  Site : https://www.hkaff.asia/en/film/2021/detail/61

[ HONG KONG ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL ]
    The co-directorial debut of advertising director Ng Wing-shan and actor Yeung Chiu-hoi tells an affecting tale of female friendship and unlikely first loves. Nam and Yuet have been best friends since their school days. On the night before Yuet's wedding, Nam recalls their time together in school, when they shared a relationship that was more than friendship, but also perhaps not quite love. This lovingly nostalgic and bittersweet film offers a unique feminine twist on the well-worn youth romance formula.

  8 GHOSTBUSTERS: AFTERLIFE
    d. Jason Reitman
    Finna Wolfhard, Mckenna Grace, Carrie Coon, Paul Rudd

  7 SWORD ART ONLINE PROGRESSIVE ARIA OF STARLESS NIGHT
    d. Ayako Kono
    Japanese Animation
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 98 mins.
  Opening November 25 2021
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/udM4aSEc5_g

[ MCL CINEMA ]
    This is the story of a time before Lightning Flash and the Black Swordsman were known by those names...

    Asuna Yuuki was a girl in the ninth grade who'd never had anything to do with online games when she accidentally put on the NerveGear that fateful day.

    The game master speaks.

    This may be a game, but it's not something you play.

    "Game Over" means you die in the real world.

    Hearing this, the players are sent into a state of confusion, and pandemonium reigns in the game. One of these players is Asuna. Despite not even knowing the rules of this new world, she sets out on her journey to the floating steel castle of Aincrad, its apex not yet visible.

    As she continues to live on in this world where death is always a step away, Asuna has a fateful encounter followed by a parting...

    Despite being at the mercy of this strange reality, she fights on valiantly until someone appears before her: the solitary swordsman, Kirito...

  6 HOUSE OF GUCCI
    d. Ridley Scott
    Adam Driver, Lady Gaga, Jared Leto,
      Jeremy Irons, Selma Hayek, Al Pacino

  5 ETERNALS
    d. Chloe Zhao
    Selma Hayek, Angelina Jolie, Richard Madden, Gemma Chan,
      Ma Dong-seok (Don Lee), Brian Tyree Henry, Kit Harrington,
      Kumail Nanjiani, Lauren Ridloff, Barry Keoghan, Lia McHugh

  4 ENCANTO
    d. Byron Howrd, Jared Bush
    Disney Animation

  3 SHOWBIZ SPY
    Can : Ga Mo Nui Tuen
    Lit : Fake Girl Group
    d. Keian Chui Tze Yiu
    Anson Lo Hon Ting, Chloe So Ho Yi,
      Summer Chan Chi Huen, Heidi Lee Ching Yi, Alina Lee Yan Yi,
      Patrick Tam Yiu Man, Andrew Lam Man Chung,
      Denis Kwok Ka Chun (193), Sunny Wong,
      Ken Law Ho Ming, Kira Chan Wai Suen, MC $oho (So Chi Ho),
      German Cheung Man Kit, Hebe Chan Yuen Ting, Kiki Cheung Hoi Kei,
      Yatho Wong, Fong Tsz Yan, Jacqueline Dai Hoi Lam
      Dai Hoi Lam
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 92 mins.
  Opening November 25 2021
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/beOFz5Op04Q

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    Cercis Lui goes undercover in this lively comedy as an member of the "International Association for the Physical and Mental Health Development of Underage Boys and Girls” dedicated to protecting young boys and girls from being exploited in their pursuit of pop stardom.

    When tasked with taking down a shady talent show and its mastermind, Big Boss, Cercis must disguise himself as a woman to enter the competition. Only then can he get close enough to gather the evidence to take down the criminal ring.

    Joining this outlandish operation are Helianthus - an entertainment reporter, Circle O – a wannabe popstar, Lilium - a notorious artist and Oval O – cousin of Circle O from the US. But does this ragtag team have what it takes to triumph over the shady side of the business?

  2 THE BATTLE AT LAKE CHANGJIN
    d. Chen Kaige, Tsui Hark, Dante Lam Chiu Yin
      Wu Jing, Jackson Yee, Duan Yihong, Zhang Hanyu, Zhu Yawen, Li Chen,
      Wu Jun, Elvis Han Dongjun, Hu Jun, Huang Xuan, Oho Ou
    Rating : IIB
    Length : 176 mins.
    Opening November 11 2021
    Trailer : https://youtu.be/6V9GjnOObRQ

[ EMPEROR MOTION PICTURES ]
    The story takes place in winter, 1950. In the freezing cold Changjin Lake region, a bloody battle between the United States and China begins. Faced with the harshest conditions of extreme cold, lack of rations and vast difference in weaponry, the Chinese troops forge ahead, fearless and determined. They successfully blow up the Shuimen Bridge, making the most critical victory in the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea.

  1 ANITA
  Can : Mui Yim Fong
    d. Longman Leung
    Louise Wong Tanni, Louis Koo Tin Lok, Gordon Lam Ka Tung,
      Terrance Lau Chun Him, Fish Liew Chi Yu,
      Miriam Yeung Chin Wa, Tony Yang, David Siu Chung Hung,
      Carlos Chan Ka Lok, Harriet Yeung, Wong Chun, Ram Chiang Chi Kwong,
      Waise Lee Chi Hung, Ranya Lee Man, Jason Chan Pak Yu,
      Tony Wu Tsz Tung, Michael Ning (Bak Ji),
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 137 mins.
  Opening October 15 2021 at the Busan International Film Festival
  Opening October 16 2021 (Preview)
  Opening November 12 2021
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/nHn3hhZI7Iw
  Teaser : https://youtu.be/0VcPpH06bOw

[ THE FILM CATALOGUE ]
    This long-awaited biopic provides a vivid account of the remarkable life of Anita Mui in and behind the limelight, chronicling her journey from a child performer to becoming one of world's most recognized music icons.

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    A household name in Hong Kong, queen of Canto pop, Anita Mui was the very definition of a cultural icon during Hong Kong's golden age in the eighties and nineties. With a career that began at the age of 4 in an amusement park, Mui dedicated almost her whole life to music. Behind stardom, her personal life, passion at work and the love for friends made her an irreplaceable role model of "The Daughter of Hong Kong". The film opens with her final concert and looks back on her life and legacy.

[2021.12.01] FOR THE WEEK STARTING SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 27 2021

For the week starting Saturday, November 27 2021 (Week 48)

VIUTV CHILL CLUB CHART

  5 ABOUT SHATTERED THOUGHTS OF LOVE
  Can : Guan Yu Oi Dik Shui Lim
  Phil Lam Yik Hon

https://youtu.be/YugcrHZAC0c

  4 TRANQUILITY LIFE
  Can : Fut Gai Yun Sun
  Alfred Hui Ting Hung

https://youtu.be/iYfadciNfpA

  3 ALL IN ONE
  MIRROR

https://youtu.be/qmZuaRy1LuQ

  2 ONE AND ONLY ONE
  Can : Teet Shu
  Mag Lam Yun Tung

https://youtu.be/2QhULQhSqtg

  1 THAT'S IT FOR NOW
  Can : Hai Gum Sin La
  MC $oHo and KidNey ft. Kayan9896

https://youtu.be/XRri2m8Es4s

[2021.12.01] SAMMO HUNG PRAISES LOUIS KOO'S ACTION SCENE IMPROVEMENT

Sammo Hung praises Louis Koo's action scene improvement

Richie Jen praises Raymond Lam's hard training effort
courtesy of singtao.com

Louis Koo personally performs his stunts and has fought for 5 days straight

courtesy of on.cc

Sammo Hung lately has had less contact with friend Alan Tam but has heard about his sex scandal

Louis Koo is happy to work with Sammo Hung again

courtesy of mingpao.com

The film KOWLOON WALLED CITY (GAU LUNG SING JAI WAI SING) yesterday held a production start ceremony. Investors Peter Lam Kin Ngok, Sil-Metropole chief Chen Yiqi, director Soi Cheang Pou Soi, actors Louis Koo Tin Lok, Sammo Hung Kam Bo, Richie Jen (Yam Yin Chai), Raymond Lam Fung, Terrance Lau Chun Him, Kenny Wong Tak Bun, Tony Wu Tsz Tung, Philip Ng Won Lung, and German Cheung Man Kit attended. Hung Kam Bo praised Koo Tin Lok's action film improvement as he has already become a veteran! In addition, Lam Fung trained five days a week for the film, but in the film everyone took turn to beat him up.

The film KOWLOON WALLED CITY invested heavily on the construction of Kowloon Walled City in Yuen Long and work has already begun for a week. Koo Tin Lok said that everyday has been very happy in the "walled city" because he was able to watch many 80's television programs, magazines and old records that brought back nostalgia for him; as for their costumes in the film, whether the clothing or the hairstyle, they were full of 80's flavors. Goo Jai revealed that for the past few days t work he has been focusing on fight scenes. In the film his character was called "Tornado", his punches and kicks were as fast as whirlwind. He pointed out that with what little past martial art experience he has had, he was able to handle it.

As for "Big Brother Big" Hung Kam Bo, he said that he too had a few action scenes. Mainly the younger group would be responsible for them. Would he accommodate Goo Jai in the scenes? He joked, "No need to, he is already a veteran, a master, I has seen his improvement!" Hung Kam Bo had a previous leg injury. Yesterday he still was carrying a cane. Would fight scenes feel tougher for him now? He joked, "Working on action scenes is a little tougher, chatting with everyone now is a little tougher for me too." How did the director convince him to perform? He joked that as soon as the director paid I took it. This would be a film for men. Goo Jai pointed out that continuity would be very important in all the action. The younger group had it the youngest. They all had to have training in advance. Even with the highly difficult stunts they tried not to use stunt doubles. He however due to other performance had no time to train.

Speaking of KOWLOON would not be finished until after the Lunar New Year, would Hung Kam Bo have less time to meet with friends? He said that whether he was at work or not he has seen his friends less. He would have to make time even for his grandchildren. "Actually working with everyone has been very pleasant, however with the pandemic I rarely saw my friends. When people are old they can easily catch the virus, so I avoid them and see them less. However we would still send texts back and forth." He pointed out that he just returned from Shanghai 5 days ago and did not see friend Alan Tam Wing Lun as much either. As for Alan's sex scandal, he read a little about it but that was all. "You can't believe everything, people say I was born in 49, and this and that about my former wife, then bring out another woman's photo; they would also say Hung Kam Bo is old, Jackie Chan is old, while he (the gossiper) wouldn't get old. Actually no one needs to say too much, as long as we are healthy and happy then we are fine!"

Yam Yin Chai worked with Lam Fung for the first time. Siu Chai praised Lam Fung for his hard work, because he wanted to train with the action director but did not have time. Lam Fung actually trained for five days a week. Siu Chai had nothing but praise. "He used to look handsome, this time he is as solid as a steel beam and quite a pleasant surprise. Everyone is in for a treat!" Would Lam Fung show off his muscles in the film? Lam Fung said that it would not be deliberate, but it has been quite a challenge for him as well, "This time I really had a lot of fighting, as Siu Chai, Goo Jai took turns to hit me. Basically every character would hit me. We would have punching, kicking, car crashes, jumping off building, and I would try to perform the stunts personally!" Siu Chai said that luckily he played an elder role and would not need to fight too much. Lam Fung also praised Siu Chai as very cool in the film. However yesterday they both appeared in hats to keep their short hair look from being exposed off camera.

For this performance, Lam Fung not only got a tan and grew out his facial hair but also trained for over a month before the shoot. In addition it was high skill training. On the first day the training was already 3 hours, from which he also threw up. Did he get hurt? lam Fung said more or less, just from training everyone he would get "scratched up". He felt the training was worth that. Would he get more insurance? He said, "I have bought some, as long as the movie turns out great. To be able to participate this time, it is very rare. Thank you Mr. Koo (Koo Tin Lok) for giving me this chance!" Siu Chai joked that luckily he had fewer fights.

This time the film would not wrap up production until after the Lunar New Year. Unable to spend the holiday with his family, Siu Chai said that actors had to make sacrifices too. Lam Fung also said that he could only see his wife and daughter on video chat everyday. "My daughter is already one, I would miss my wife and child." Would his daughter be unable to recognize him after not seeing him in awhile? He said, "No, as soon as she saw me she would call Papa. Thus no matter how tough it would be it doesn't matter." Due to the pandemic for now he would not be able to arrange for his wife and daughter to return to Hong Kong. He could only keep working hard first.

[2021.11.30] ADAM WONG PREPARES FOR A MOVIE ABOUT THE HEARING IMPAIRED

courtesy of singtao.com

courtesy of mingpao.com

Director Adam Wong Sau Ping yesterday attended the UNICEF Hong Kong 35th anniversary. Wong Sau Ping said that in recent years he has mainly worked in education. Seeing many young people's work encouraged him. "At least no one 'tang ping'! They worked on their creation with a lot of fire." He even revealed that he was preparing for a movie about the hearing impaired and hoped to be able to start production in the middle of next year. "The film THE WAY WE DANCE had an amputee dancer. His story has encouraged many people. Thus I came into contact with some dance who have lost their hearing and gradually got in touch with the deaf. (Would this subject be difficult to make?) If it isn't then we wouldn't be able to make good movies, having some difficulty to overcome would make a good one."

The 58th Golden Horse Award took place earlier. REVOLUTION OF OUR TIMES won Best Documentary, DRIFTING won Best Adapted Screenplay, and Clara Law with DRIFTING PETALS won Best Director. Wong Sau Ping said that he paid attention to the Golden Horse Award and was happy for winners, nominees and presenters who worked hard for film and contributed to promoting culture. Other than DRIFTING, the other two films had very little chance at a Hong Kong release. He admitted that was regrettable.

[2021.11.29] KEIAN CHUI WORRIES ABOUT BEING "DISCIPLES'" MURDER TARGET

Keian Chui feels that Hong Kong lacks youth films in recent years and decides to make SHOWBIZ SPY courtesy of singtao.com

The film SHOWBIZ SPY (GA MO NUI TUEN)'s director Keian Chui Tze Yiu this time made a youth comedy. During casting "Cult Leader" Anson Lo Hon Ting caught his eyes to become the led, and teamed with a group of young female artists to compete in a girl group contest. Chui Tze Yiu felt that Hong Kong in recent years lacked domestic youth film series, seeing a new rising force in show business he immediately grasped the opportunity. He laso praised the new generation in the film as "young and invincible".

This time director Chui Tze Yiu used an all young new comer cast to star in his new film SHOWBIZ SPY and even chose MIRROR member and top idol Anson Lo to be the lead. Why did he choose Cult Leader to be the leading man? Chui Tze Yiu joked, "You don't have to ask, he is handsome and youth. Tens of thousands of girls are under his spell, and I want to be able to innovate and have a little fun."

Actually the director's original idea was to make a girl group movie, but later he changed his mind and thought why not be daring with a male in disguise. Finally after negotiations with Anson Lo they agreed. Was he pleased with Cult Leader's female disguise? He said that would have to wait for audience evaluation. "Many people may mistakenly think that he has to play a pretty girl. Actually he doesn't. In the film he unwillingly plays an ugly girl, at first we were worried. It would be very hard to turn a guy into a very pretty girl, so we deliberately designed the character to not want to do it in order to add to the comedy." Making Cult Leader ugly on the big screen, Chui Tze Yiu was mentally prepared and already had the discussions in advance with Sister Fa (Wong Wai Kwan). He said, "We have thought about wouldn't we be become the first murder targets by fans in Hong Kong history, we indeed were concerned. When the film would be released, I would be safer abroad to dodge the heat."

Chui Tze Yiu pointed out that this time the casting deliberately matched personal style with the characters, like they were tailor made. Chloe So Ho Yi was more active, Summer Chan Tze Huen the new comer played the new comer. The goal was for the audience to recognize the character's unique qualities. He strongly suggested for young people to go, experienced the joy of returning to the basics and get to know the new comers.

[2021.11.29] CHLOE SO PRAISES ANSON LO AS AN "ACTUALLY WARM GUY"

After working together on SHOWBIZ SPY the stars also become good friends
courtesy of singtao.com

"Cult Leader" Anson Lo Hon Ting's big screen debut made him a new film star. Normally a rather active idol singer dancer on the small screen, this time in the film he put on a female disguise. As a goddess his charm remained, his gorgeous disguise even earned him pretty girl praises. Co-star Chloe So Ho Yi revealed that Cult Leader had a "warm guy" presence and she was under his spell.

Anson Lo, So Ho Yi and Summer Chan Tze Huen starred in the youth film SHOWBIZ SPY completely let go of his idol baggage and daringly took the challenge of the role. His female disguise in the film even praised his two co-stars' praise, Cult Leader however awkwardly said, "I of course feel it isn't pretty, they say it is. However I have already done my best, I hope it wouldn't make anyone very nauseous. Because the female disguise can easily bring a type of resistant feeling." So Ho Yi joked that she enjoyed Cult Leader's visual experience as a girl. Seeing him in a wig, half covered appearance and higher voice, she thought he was funny. Suddenly becoming a woman was an enormous challenge for Cult Leader, and also made his realize that the pain of a woman with the fake eyelashes, eyeliners and such. The make up alone required several hours, the long hair in particular was very tough as it constantly covered up his face.

Playing the role in a light and exaggerated manner, Cult Leader said that his personality was solid in real life and he was no comedy expert. So Ho Yi praised him as a "warm guy". She was once upset at her own performance. When she was disappointed, Cult Leader attentively greeted her, "Out of 100 how upset are you?" He was very concerned about everyone. His first lead role gave Cult Leader a lot of pressure. He thanked producer Charlie Wong Wing Fung and director Keian Chui Tze Yiu for their trust and asking him to play the lead. He deeply remembered on the first day of the shoot, after the concert without any sleep or rest for 72 hours he went straight into work. He said, "That day was very blurry. I just got home at 5AM, after a shower I left for the shoot. Behind the camera I really fell asleep right away. As soon as I took my mark I was awake again. Thinking back I was pretty tired, but I already did my best."

Everyone have witnessed MIRROR's past performance in music, now Cult Leader is fortunate enough to become a rising film star he did not dare to hope for an award. He humbly said that he was only a rookie in acting. "I don't have the qualification or room to think about awards. I am already very happy with getting to work." For his debut, he would like to share it with brother Jer Lau the most. He even joked, "I asked him if he would get a ticket to support me, he said that he wouldn't. I was very heartbroken, but I would want to invite him to watch. In the past half a year I learned that Jer was very interested in acting. We had the common topic of acting to discuss." Cult Leader said that he even hoped for all 12 MIRROR members would be able to make a movie together, working with brothers would feel very secure.

So Ho Yi and Chan Tze Huen worked with Cult Leader, which would certainly become a hot topic among Disciples. They once worried about the fan reaction. So Ho Yi said, "Lo and I would rehearse in a tiny space, we are only ordinary friends. Fans probably won't be jealous." Cult Leader said, "Would they immediately cut ties with me? No, everyone know it's acting. Seeing such professional actors, viewers would have professional insight." They both fell under his spells like fans. Chan Tze Huen said, "Meeting him on the first day Anson Lo only spent a hour to catch up with all the choreography for the day. Actually a guy who knows how to dance is very charm(ing)." So Ho Yi felt that Cult Leader is both an idol and an actor. On and off screen he had different charm.

[2021.11.28] LOUISE WONG OFFERS HER SERVICES TO COMEDY

courtesy of on.cc

courtesy of singtao.com

courtesy of mingpao.com

Louis Koo Tin Lok, Louise Wong Dan Nei and director Longman Leung yesterday attended the "Lee Theatre Presents Christmas Rouge X Anita" unveiling. On display were a series of promotional photos that photographer Wing Shya (Ha Wing Hong) shot for the film ANITA. At the event Goo Jai and Wong Dan Nei shared the person that they wanted to thank the most in their careers. Goo Jai said that he wanted to thank his parents while Wong Dan Nei wanted to thank her elder who studied design and encouraged her to become a model, only then did she have the opportunity to play the role of Mui Yim Fong.

The Goo Jai and Wong Dan Nei starred ANITA has opened for more than two weeks and already passed the HK$ 40 million mark. Goo Jai was surprised as well. He asked, "Really? I am very surprised, very pleased!" He said that he knew on regular days many people still went to watch the movie. He only watched it once because he had to work recently. His Mommy has seen it as well. Although she did not cry from it, she praised how entertaining it was. As for Papa because he was less mobile, he has not seen it yet. However his friends have booked shows to watch it. Would Goo Jai like the box office to go higher? He said, "I only want to make entertaining movies that viewers would like s well. I haven't thought about the box office as much. However I have never had so many people who watched this film around me, maybe everyone around me was from that era and they had a lot of memories."

Wong Dan Nei said that she has seen the film many times. Her family has shown its support too and praised how entertaining it was. Each time she watched she has been moved to tears. Because many spots had memories and sentiments, she used many packs of tissues. Did the hardship drive to her tears? She denied and said, "I had a mission to play this role well, it was worth all the hardship." Speaking of her first film already making her a HK$ 40 million box office star, she admitted that the number was very encouraging. It was all the hard work from the entire team and it encouraged her to keep working hard. Has Goo Jai lent a hand to the younger generation and asked Wong Dan Nei to make a movie? Goo Jai said, "I have heard that many movies have approached her, I would consider any actor with potential." Wong Dan Nei revealed that earlier she volunteered for comedy. Goo Jai said, "Really?" Wong Dan Nei said, "That's why it was funny."

Goo Jai felt that comedy would not be easy to make and require a lo of personal style. The timing had to be precise and the person had to be creative, knowing which spot to cut in. Sometimes they would stop right in the middle of coming up with an idea, thus Hong Kong very rarely made comedy. The script was very hard to come up with, unless it would be for the Lunar New Year. However he agreed that the current climate would be suitable for more comedy.

With Christmas on the way, Goo Jai said that recently he has been busy with an action film. Wong Dan Nei also said that she would have to work and hoped to be able to make time to have a big Christmas feast with her family.

[2021.11.28] CLARA LAW WINS THE 58TH GOLDEN HORSE AWARD BEST DIRECTOR

Tiffany Hsu

Bai  Ling wrote "Be Your Most Exciting Self" on her dress

Lee Sinjie hopes to return to film next year

After 30 years in the business, Chang Chen finally won his first Golden Horse Best Actor with THE SOUL

Alyssa Chia hit the mark with her first Golden Horse Best Actress nomination for THE FALLS

Residing in Australia, Hong Kong director Clara Law won Best Director with DRIFTING PETALS

Jun Li succumbs to tears after winning Best Adapted Screenplay for DRIFTING

Best Supporting Actress Wang Yu-xuan and Best Supporting Actor Liu Kuan-ting
courtesy of mingpao.com 

The 58th Golden Horse Awards last night took place in Taipei. Due to the pandemic, masks were required. Chang Chen with THE SOUL won his first Best Actor award against Francis Ng Chun Yu, Kai Ko Chen-Tung, Roy Chiu, and Cheng Jen-shuo. Alyssia Chia with THE FALLS and her first nomination immediately defeated Karena Lam Ka Yan for Best Actress. THE FALLS also won Best Narrative Feature, Best Original Screenplay and Best Original Film Score to become the big winner. Hong Kong director Clara Law with DRIFTING PETALS won Best Director; the Jun Li directed Hong Kong film DRIFTING received 12 nominations but in the end only won Best Adapted Screenplay.

Jun Li Chun Shek with DRIFTING defeated TILL WE MEET AGAIN's Giddens Ko for the Best Adapted Screenplay Award. Winning his first Golden Horse Award, Li Chun Shek succumbed to tears as he accepted the prize. He said, "The creative journey is very tough, very lonely, I have been very fortunate to have a group of battle companions and friends who have always supported me. Thank you my family, my love, thank you Boss, and the hard working Producer who deserved a lot of the credit." He continued as he choked up, "I am sorry, thank you for your company and support. Thank you to the cast, especially Brother Chun Yu. Even if the screenplay was written even better, without good actors' performance it would still be useless. Every one of their performance was very excellent." He also thanked each person he has interviewed, saying, "Thank you for sharing the stories of your lives."

Clara Law with DRIFTING PETALS won Best Director. She did not attend as a friend accepted the award on her behalf. "Clara Law is in Australia. Earlier she told me to relax, saying that her chance of winning was zero. Because she is the most cursed director, going home empty handed many times before. This award now is a pleasant surprise. She thanks the Golden Horse Award jury, thank the husband who is cooking for her everyday in the kitchen -- Fong Ling Ching."

THE 58th GOLDEN HORSE AWARDS
https://goldenhorse.org.tw/awards/nw/?r=en&serach_type=award&sc=8&search_regist_year=2021&ins=50

BEST NARRATIVE FEATURE: THE FALLS
BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE: REVOLUTION OF OUR TIMES
BEST ANIMATED FEATURE: NONE
BEST LIVE ACTION SHORT FILM: GOOD DAY
BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM: IN THEIR TEENS
BEST ANIMATED SHORT FILM: THE MAGICAL TRACING
BEST DIRECTOR: Clara Law (DRIFTING PETALS)
BEST LEADING ACTOR: Chang Chen (THE SOUL)
BEST LEADING ACTRESS: Alyssa Chia (THE FALLS)
BEST SUPPROTING ACTOR: Liu Kuan-ting (TREAT OR TRICK)
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: Wang Yu-xuan (GODDAMNED ASURA)
BEST NEW DIRECTOR: Fion Roan Feng-i (AMERICAN GIRL)
BEST NEW PERFORMER: Caitlin Fang (AMERICAN GIRL)
BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY: Chung Mong-hong, Chang Yaosheng (THE FALLS)
BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY: Jun Li (DRIFTING)
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY: Giorgos Valsamis (AMERICAN GIRL)
BEST VISUAL EFFECTS: Archin Yen (TILL WE MEET AGAIN)
BEST ART DIRECTION: Huang Mei-ching, Liang Shuo-lin, Liao Huei-li (THE SOUL)
BEST MAKEUP AND COSTUME DESIGN: Singing Lin, Hsiao Pai-chen, Liu Hsien-chia (TILL WE MEET AGAIN)
BEST ACTION CHOREOGRAPHY: Chan Man-fai, Chu Ke-feng, Feng Ren-zhi (NEZHA)
BEST ORIGINAL FILM SCORE: Lu Luming (THE FALLS)
BEST ORIGINAL FILM SONG: I MISSED YOU (I MISSED YOU)
BEST FILM EDITING: Shieh Meng-ju (THE SOUL)
BEST SOUND EFFECTS: R.T Kao, Chu Shih-yi (TILL WE MEET AGAIN)
OUTSTANDING TAIWANESE FILMMAKER OF THE YEAR: Frank Chen
AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARD: AMERCIAN GIRL
FIPRESCI PRIZE: AMERICAN GIRL
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: Lin Tsan-ting, Tsai Yang-ming

[2021.11.27] ANSON LO EXECUTES THE PERFECT LEAP

courtesy of singtao.com

The Anson Lo Hon Ting, Chloe So Ho Yi, Summer Chan Chi Huen, Heidi Lee Ching Yi and Alina Lee Yan Yi starred film SHOWBIZ SPY (GA MO NUI TUEN) with the opening day, the premiere and the advanced screenings made over HK$ 1.1 million on its first day. The cast and the crew were happy to see the results. Anson Lo would even appear at cinemas to thank the audience.

Anson Lo in the film also had his first martial art fight scene attempt. In order to handle action director Law Ho Ming's action designs, they had few action performance lessons. Anson Lo did not disappoint, as he was able to perform one of the leaps in one take. The performance had the crew applauding him in praise.

However Chan Chi Huen was not as lucky. When rehearsing one scene, she descended from a hand stand and sprained her neck. She could not move. As everyone was concerned, she withstood the pain and smiled as she comforted everyone. Luckily after going to the hospital and treatment from the doctors she was fine. Originally the doctor suggested for her to rest, but she did not want to hinder the production. The next day she insisted on going to work with a neck brace. Even the director and producer Charlie could not help but praise her professionalism.

[2021.11.27] LOUISE WONG AT FIRST WORRIES ABOUT FANS NOT ACCEPTING HER

Although ANITA has become a hit, Louise Wong does not hold out much hope for awards
courtesy of singtao.com

courtesy of on.cc

courtesy of mingpao.com

Louise Wong Dan Nei two nights ago performed at the online concert "A NIGHT OF ANITA". The film ANITA made HK$ 36 million. Lead Wong Dan Nei said that she never thought about what she would get in return, as she thought that she gained a lot already. She did not dare to think about whether she would win an award or not.

Wong Dan Nei said that being able to make ANITA was a type of destiny and sense of duty, for even more people to know Mui Yim Fong's story and reminisce. She hoped to be able to bring this film to go even further even more, to be able to go to different countries and regions; seeing viewers taking their parents and children to the movie, she felt that this film has already become a family gathering and she was very moved.

With the good box office and the film becoming the talk of the town, has Wong Dan Nei thought about winning an award with the film? She said that for a new actor, to be able to play such a meaningful character was already a huge gain. She truly did not dare to think about awards. Wong Dan Nei said, "At first I was the most worried about Mui Yim Fong's fans not accepting me, but after attending many audience appreciation events I saw that everyone truly sensed the entire team's sincerity and heart. Thus I was very happy. Now really more people know me, for that I am really grateful. This is also the first step, many people who have seen this film say they would look forward to my next one."

As for her husband Sheldon Lo Hau Yung's review, Wong Dan Nei said that her family and people who lived around her, whether parents or children they all said that they were proud of her. Earlier they only saw her leaving early and returning late, after watching the film they finally realized how hard the team worked to make this happen. She said, "They were happy for me that I was able to make this movie. (How has the family celebrated with you?) Earlier my family booked a show to watch this movie. On a certain level to me it is a gift, to watch with the family, to cry and to laugh together, I feel that the joy of the people around me or the joy of viewers after seeing this film, how moved the audience is to me is the biggest gift."

[2021.11.27] LOVE AFTER LOVE FEATURES OSCARS WINNERS ON ITS TEAM

courtesy of singtao.com

The Ann Hui On Wa directed, Ma Sichun and Eddie Peng Yu-Yan starred film LOVE AFTER LOVE (DAI YUT LO HEUNG) earlier opened officially. Yesterday the film company released a behind the scenes production special. Hui On Wa described the golden team that included music producer Ryuichi Sakamoto, cinematography director Christopher Doyle (To Ho Fung), costume designer Emi Wada, and has won over 176 heavyweight award with "They all have won Oscars!"

Emi Wada passed away on November 13 2021 at age 84. Early on with Akira Kurosawa's film RAN (1985) she won the Best Costume Design Oscar, the first Japanese woman to do so. LOVE was her final film. Hui On Wa has always had a dream of working with her "idol" Ryuichi Sakamoto. This time she even personally headed to Tokyo for a meeting and enabled this opportunity to work together this time.

[2021.11.26] ANSON LO GETS A PHOTO WITH PATRICK TAM ON HIS PARENTS' ORDERS

courtesy of singtao.com

Anson Lo has many action scenes

Andrew Lam and 193 are just as funny and set off a lot of spark
courtesy of mingpao.com

"Cult Leader" Anson Lo Hon Ting's first film as a lead actor, the Chui Tze Yu directed film SHOWBIZ SPY (GA MO NUI TUEN) was officially released yesterday. Earlier a premiere and many audience appreciation screenings took place. Cult Leader also personally participated, as many shows were showed out even before the film was released. Cult Leader in the film was fortunate enough to work with his parents' idol Patrick Tam Yiu Man in the film. He said that his parents asked him to get a photo and to report everything about Brother Tam to them when he got home.

As SHOWBIZ SPY fever hit the city, Anson Lo and other stars attended various audience appreciation events that became the focus. The film's advanced sales have been rather ideal. Cult Leader worked on his first film with many new attempts. Aside from martial art action he also had a female disguise. Resembling a student prince in school uniform, he with martial art action had many "Disciples" under his spell. Cult Leader said, "This was my first movie, the first fight scene in my life. I studied Tae Kwon Do when I was little, but after I never tried to fight. During the production I haven't had even the slightest bump. For fight scenes this time, I had several action training lessons. Because we had to rehearse the marks, punching back and forth, all of which to me were something fresh."

Co-star Tam Yiu Man actually was the idol of Cult Leader's parents. Cult Leader said, "After learning Brother Tam would take this film, my parents were very excited because we super like Brother Tam. They asked me to remember to take photos with Brother Tam, when I got home I had to report everything about Brother Tam. Brother Tam didn't put on air, and gave me the impression of a big brother. He really took care of me. The first time when I worked with him, he led from the beginning to the end. He reminded me that acting had to have rhythm. He studied with me how to take the journey as an actor, and gave me a lot of suggestions for my image and acting style."

Cult Leader called Andrew Lam Man Chung the Master, as he gave off a enormous presence, humorous and dominant. Cult Leader said, "For the first time I met Master, he took out his phone for a selfie with me. Master was a very easy going person, he did whatever he felt doing at the moment. At every shoot he would have different funny spots, his creative abilities are very high. He would make erupt with laughter but also have to learn how to hold the laughter back."

In addition, Cult Leader also worked with his fellow KING MAKER contestant 193 Kwok Ka Chun in the film, which made him felt like he had a battle companion. He said, "I had a very sweet feeling, aside from 193 it is the first time I worked with other actors. I have known 193 since I started, at least I had the feeling of having a battle companion to keep me company."

[2021.11.25] GORDON LAM FEELS GUILTY ABOUT KNOCKING DOWN HIROYUKI IKENUCHI

Gordon Lam's LIMBO performance is seen as Best Actor worthy.  He however feels awards are secondary, making a good movie is more important.

Working with Hiroyuki Ikenuchi again, Gordon Lam says that they have more chemistry
courtesy of singtao.com

Gordon Lam Ka Tung in the new film LIMBO had any action scenes. Aside from beating up Cya Liu, his fight scene with Hiroyuki Ikenuchi was very exciting. Ka Tung described it as "free style combat" because director Soi Cheang Pou Soi only told them the area of the fight and where the "weapons" were. They were free to do whatever they wanted. He joked that his painful expressions in the film were real, and Hiroyuki Ikenuchi really got dizzy from the fight. However even with the pain, as long as the director did not yell cut they could only keep on performing.

Lam Ka Tung's performance in Cheang Pou Soi's new film LIMBO received praises and hopes for another Best Actor award. However he said that awards would only be bonuses. The most important was for the audience to see a good movie. LIMBO did not disappoint as it performed well at many overseas film festivals.

Ka Tung worked for the first time with Cya Liu and Mason Lee and praised them as outstanding actors. Cya Liu's performance in particular surprised him. "I had hatred for Cya Liu because she made my wife miscarried and became a vegetable. After that each time I ran into her I had it out for her, I wanted revenge. Each time I saw her I chased and hit her to relieve the hatred in my heart."

In a scene outside the morgue, Ka Tung kicked Cya Lu -- the brutality with which was almost too much to witness. "I don't want the girl to be hit too many times, so I wanted just one take. However this scene took two because in one of the takes the phone was outside the shoot. Before hand we didn't talk about how to fight. Before I started I would worry. In comparison to the scene in which Sham Chun Hin surrounded her, at the time she had a weapon to protect herself and could yell for help. However at the morgue she couldn't. She could only plead with me. However she was my enemy and she due to shame did not dare to fight back, so she could only take it. I could only fight with all I got. The stress was greater. (Did you communicate how to fight before hand?) No, but I knew she had a spot that have taken protective measures. I kept an eye on the fighting. The director only told me the area of the fight, as long as I didn't exceed the borders I could take all the marks I wanted, fight as much as I could. I was pretty surprised by Cya's response. Her reaction was really real, I worried the most bout her feeling the pain. If she did then she would slip, and if she slipped then we would have to start over. However she didn't, no matter how much it hurt she stayed inside the character. Even when the phone dropped she still picked it up and kept acting. She didn't stop, very professional. (Did you want to hold back?) Of course more or less I did, but in order to play the role well I had no choice. I could only make less bad takes and not too use too many takes, I tried to finish the fight as soon as possible."

Another scene with Hiroyuki Ikenuchi ws one of the major scenes. Ka Tung and Ikenuchi worked together on IP MAN. They were full of chemistry for this reunion, but Ka Tung felt that his co-star had it rougher this time. "IP MAN had styles that could be followed, this time however there were none. Ours was a free fight. The director only told us the area of the fight and what weapons were nearby. We had to come up with ways to get them. Thus before hand we first confirmed whether the props and the set were stable, if they were OK then we went. We both were experienced actor, didn't have too many problems. The only thing I was sorry for, as soon as he came and dragged me to the trash can to fight. As soon as he pulled, my instinct was to retaliate. I really knocked him silly so he really got dizzy. However the director didn't yell cut. He was swaying but he kept walking out. I really hurt him, so he had it pretty rough."

[2021.11.24] FOR THE WEEK ENDING SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21 2021

For the week ending Sunday November 21 2021

Photos courtesy of Yahoo! Movies Hong Kong

10 KAMEN RIDER SABER + KIKAI SENTAI ZENKAIGER SUPER HERO SENKI
    d. Ryuta Tasaki
    Syuichiro Naito, Kiita Komagine, Takaya Yamaguchi, Asuka Kawazu,
      Ryo Aoki, Yuki Ikushima, Eiji Togashi, Hiroshi Fujioka
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 99 mins.
  Opening November 18 2021
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/shSoHjCo2MM

[ MCL CINEMA ]
   When Touma Kamiyama, who also is Kamen Rider Saber, opens a mysterious book, he is sent to the World of Zenkaiger! At the same time, Kaito Goshikida and some of the members of Zenkaiger are sent to the World of Kamen Rider Saber. The mysterious forces bring two different worlds together. And thus, Touma team up with Kaito to save their worlds!

  9 PERFECT BLUE (NEWLY DIGITAL REMASTERED VERSION)
    d. Satoshi Kon
    Japanese Animation
    Rating : III
    Length : 81 mins.
    Opening November 11 2021
    Trailer : https://youtu.be/2ZqDNCp3MMY

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    Mima Kirigoe, a member of the idol group "CHAM!", gives up music and pursues an acting career, but she is not working well. Encouraged by her managers, Mima takes on a rape victim role in a TV drama and even takes nude photos to salvage her career. Harboring feelings of guilt and haunted by visions of her former self, Mima's reality and fantasy meld into a frenzied paranoia. At the same time, her handlers and collaborators begin turning up murdered. Getting lost between phantasm and reality, what is the truth of these mysterious incidents?

  8 NO TIME TO DIE
    d. Cary Joji Fukunaga
    Daniel Craig, Rami Malek, Lea Seydoux, Lashana Lynch, Ben Whishaw,
      Naomie Harris, Billy Magnussen, Ana de Armas, David Denick,
      Rory Kinnear, Dali Benssalah,
      Jeffrey Wright, Christoph Weltz, Ralph Fiennes

  7 KING RICHARD
    d. Reinaldo Marcus Green
    Will Smith

  6 RON'S GONE WRONG
    d. Jean-Philippe Vine
    Animation
    English Voices: Zach Galifianakis, Jack Dylan Grazer, Ed Helms,
      Justice Smith, Rob Delaney, Kylie Cantrall, Ricardo Hurtado
      Marcus Scribner, Olivia Colman

  5 LIMBO
  Can : JI CHI
  Lit : WISDOM TOOTH
    d. Soi Cheang Po Shui
    Gordon Lam Ka Tung, Cya Liu, Mason Lee,
      Fish Liew Chi Yu, Sammy Sum Chun Hin,
      Hanna Chan, Kumer So (Fui Hung), Hiroyuki Ikenuchi
  Rating : III
  Length : 118 mins.
  Opening March 1 2021 at the Berlin International Film Festival 2021
  Opening October 9 2021 at the Soi Movie Parade
  Opening Ocotber 17 2021 (Preview)
  Opening November 18 2021
  Site : https://www.berlinale.de/en/programme/202101272.html
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/LBy9MdK6zvw

[ THE FILM CATALOGUE ]
    A serial killer is on the loose. Under public pressure to solve the case, the police reinstate veteran detective JIN on active duty and assign him to the case with rookie cop KAI. However, Jin's past returns to haunt him when he encounters TAO, the girl who killed Jin's wife and child in an accident. To redeem herself, Tao volunteers to work for Jin on the case. However, Jin can't control his hatred for the person who destroyed his life. As the idealistic Kai and the emotionally unstable Jin clash over their vastly different investigation styles and Jin's abusive attitude towards Tao, the truth becomes increasingly blurred...

  4 GHOSTBUSTERS: AFTERLIFE
    d. Jason Reitman
    Finna Wolfhard, Mckenna Grace, Carrie Coon, Paul Rudd

  3 ETERNALS
    d. Chloe Zhao
    Selma Hayek, Angelina Jolie, Richard Madden, Gemma Chan,
      Ma Dong-seok (Don Lee), Brian Tyree Henry, Kit Harrington,
      Kumail Nanjiani, Lauren Ridloff, Barry Keoghan, Lia McHugh

  2 THE BATTLE AT LAKE CHANGJIN
    d. Chen Kaige, Tsui Hark, Dante Lam Chiu Yin
      Wu Jing, Jackson Yee, Duan Yihong, Zhang Hanyu, Zhu Yawen, Li Chen,
      Wu Jun, Elvis Han Dongjun, Hu Jun, Huang Xuan, Oho Ou
    Rating : IIB
    Length : 176 mins.
    Opening November 11 2021
    Trailer : https://youtu.be/6V9GjnOObRQ

[ EMPEROR MOTION PICTURES ]
    The story takes place in winter, 1950. In the freezing cold Changjin Lake region, a bloody battle between the United States and China begins. Faced with the harshest conditions of extreme cold, lack of rations and vast difference in weaponry, the Chinese troops forge ahead, fearless and determined. They successfully blow up the Shuimen Bridge, making the most critical victory in the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea.

  1 ANITA
  Can : Mui Yim Fong
    d. Longman Leung
    Louise Wong Tanni, Louis Koo Tin Lok, Gordon Lam Ka Tung,
      Terrance Lau Chun Him, Fish Liew Chi Yu,
      Miriam Yeung Chin Wa, Tony Yang, David Siu Chung Hung,
      Carlos Chan Ka Lok, Harriet Yeung, Wong Chun, Ram Chiang Chi Kwong,
      Waise Lee Chi Hung, Ranya Lee Man, Jason Chan Pak Yu,
      Tony Wu Tsz Tung, Michael Ning (Bak Ji),
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 137 mins.
  Opening October 15 2021 at the Busan International Film Festival
  Opening October 16 2021 (Preview)
  Opening November 12 2021
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/nHn3hhZI7Iw
  Teaser : https://youtu.be/0VcPpH06bOw

[ THE FILM CATALOGUE ]
    This long-awaited biopic provides a vivid account of the remarkable life of Anita Mui in and behind the limelight, chronicling her journey from a child performer to becoming one of world's most recognized music icons.

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    A household name in Hong Kong, queen of Canto pop, Anita Mui was the very definition of a cultural icon during Hong Kong's golden age in the eighties and nineties. With a career that began at the age of 4 in an amusement park, Mui dedicated almost her whole life to music. Behind stardom, her personal life, passion at work and the love for friends made her an irreplaceable role model of "The Daughter of Hong Kong". The film opens with her final concert and looks back on her life and legacy.