Thursday, April 28, 2022

[2022.04.29] CHRISTINE NG GIVES REAL REACTION IN CAR SMASHING SCENE

Ron Ng, Patrick Tam and Ken Wong have fun from working together on BREAKOUT BROTHERS 2 and would like to do it again

Patrick Tam and Ron Ng had many close combat fight scene

Ken Wong has to wear winter clothes to work in the summer
courtesy of mingpao.com

Ron Ng Cheuk Hei, Patrick Tam Yiu Man and Ken Wong Tak Bun in the film BREAKOUT BROTHERs (TOH YUK HING DAI 2) battled brains and brawn. Ng Cheuk Hei joined the cast as the villain. Tam Yiu Man praised him for looking vicious during fight scenes. In the production highlight, Ng Cheuk Hei fought so much that he needed to apply ice on his hands. He denied that Tam Yiu Man injured him and even cleared his name. "My farm was injured earlier from another film. When Tam Yiu Man hit me, I couldn't feel his strength. In other words it didn't hurt. Everyone are having a very pleasant time from working together."

Ng Cheuk Hei fought from the beginning to the end, feeling that the role that he played could not be considered a villain. He only twisted the logic and always felt he was right. Playing the villain in many films lately, Ng Cheuk Hei said, "I asked for 20 years not because I wanted a transition, but because I feel each actor have to have different attempts, play different characters, work with different people in order to set off some sparks. Actors have to play anything and everything."

Tam Yiu Man this time still had a shower scene to show off his muscles. With fight scene after fight scene he deliberately went on a diet to lose weight. "I probably was thinner than the first film. It wasn't complete for the action scenes, but also for my career because in this last film I seemed to have a little belly." The 53 year old Tam Yiu man in the film mainly fought Ng Cheuk Hei. He did not get hurt from the fight scenes but from a car flipping scene instead. "At the time we still had many shots waiting, so I toughed out the pain. I only found out after 3 fractured ribs after going for tests after work. The worst was when I woke up, I was in so much pain I couldn't get up. I needed help from my family to get up. Luckily although I have reached this age, I only took two months to recover."

Playing the prison warrant, Wong Tak Bun did not need to work on fight scenes. He felt like the director played a prank on him. "The director perhaps feels I was too relaxed from not having any fight scene. He arranged for me to shoot winter scenes in a sweater in the summer, from which I became much more sweaty." He felt that working on men's movies are especially fun. He could say anything. This time he worked with a group of actors of all ages, they showed all of their masculinity in the new film.

Christine Ng Wing Mei took part in the new film BREAKOUT BROTHERS 2 (TOH YUK HING DAI 2). Ms. Ng reprised her role as Patrick Tam Yiu Man's wife, the couple reconciled. However because Ron Ng Cheuk Hei wanted to threaten her husband to assist with his prison escape, thugs attacked Ms. Ng and kept hitting her car windshield. Finally the glass shattered on Ms. Ng's head and scared her out of her wits. Later Ms. Ng said, "Although it wasn't real glass, the distance was very close. I had some minor scratches, it was very scary but also very exciting." Before the shoot Ms. Ng listened attentively to the director's explanation and tested her mark with the action director. Ms. Ng said that after so many years in the business she has not made a scene in which thugs threatened her before. she said, "During the test the bat kept smashing and I was already scared. Then during the official shoot, when the bat struck the glass heavily I was really scared, but as an actor I had to tough it out. All of the reactions were real." In another prison visit scene, Ms. Ng after working with Tam Yiu Man in the previous film has become more familiar. She praised him as a good co-star, as they adjusted the dialogue together to make the whole thing even more perfect.

In addition, SUNSHINE OF MY LIFE (YUT LO TUNG HUNG) held its world premiere in Italy at the Udine Far East Film Festival. Not only w was the screening sold out, after the show the applause was endless! The live audience reaction was immediately sent back to Hong Kong and the cast and the staff were very pleased.

[2022.04.29] LINDA WONG WISHES TO REMAIN JIMMY WANG'S DAUGHTER IN THE NEXT LIFE

Linda Wong and her sisters are very appreciative of their father's teachings
courtesy of singtao.com




Jackie Chan remembers Jimmy Wang and his contributions to kung fu films

Jimmy Wang was reluctant to part with ex-wife Jeanette Lin
courtesy of mingpao.com

"One Armed Swordsman" Jimmy Wang Yu passed away on April 5th at age 80. His three daughters Linda Wong Hing Ping, Carol Wong Ka Lo and Maria Wong Mei Yi yesterday held a memorial service for him in Taipei. Eldest daughter Wong Hing Ping said that since childhood Father had been strict, after growing up she finally realized that was Father's love. He kept the 3 of them clean and pure. She hoped that in the next life they would still be able to be father and daughter. "I would still be the daughter, you still the father, so you would have to worry about us more."

Wang Yus' service venue was decorated with white flowers. His final photo was his Golden Horse Best Supporting Actor nomination for the film WU XIA's red carpet photo. Jackie Chan, Andy Lau Tak Wa, Sandra Ng Kwan Yu, Peter Chan Ho Sun, Ivy Ling Po, Ngai Hong, Joe Ngai Chun and Vivian Chow Wai Man all sent flowers. Many Wang Yu's past film photos were on display. Wang Yu in 1967 caught director Chang Cheh's eyes, starred in the film ONE ARMED SWORDSMAN and rose to fame. Since then he made over 60 wuxia films, directed kung fu film THE CHINESE BOXER (LUNG FU DAU) and other films. With the film SOUL he won the Taipei Film Award Best Actor. In 2019 he received the Golden Horse Award Lifetime Achievement Award.

In Wang Yu's memorial video, Jackie Chan mentioned that everyone have witnessed Wang Yu's contribution to hand to hand combat kung fu. At the same time he took great care of the younger generations. "His classic films would always stay in the hearts of fans. We will always miss you, have a safe journey." The video also included Director Ang Lee's speech when Wang Yu received the Golden Horse Award Lifetime Achievement Award. Directors Chung Mong-Hong and Kevin Chu Yen-Ping praised Wang Yu for his contributions to the film industry.

Daughter Wong Hing Ping pre-recorded the song SEND WORDS TO THE WHITE CLOUDS to be played at the service. While speaking on the stage she broke down in tears. She thanked family and friends for still seeing Papa off on his final journey despite the pandemic. "We three sisters should kowtow in appreciation to you." She said that she pre-recorded the song because she knew she had no way to sing it live. She said that in her childhood when her parents got a divorce, Papa taught her to sing this song. After growing up she finally understood, Papa was reluctant to part with Mother but was not good with words. Thus he let her sing them out for him. She also mentioned that Wang Yu's military education was very strict, taught them a variety of manner but never compliment in front of his daughters. "When I was little I didn't know. After growing up I realized that Papa really loved us. He wished us 3 daughters to be pure, wished the in laws would cherish us and love us. I want to say, thank you Papa very much for bringing me into this world. I wish we would still be father and daughter in the next life. I would still be the daughter, you still the father so you would worry about us more."

After the service, Wong Hing Ping along with her sisters spoke to the media. Wong Hing Ping said that Papa was a big hero in everyone's hearts. To his daughters he was as strict as a big hero, but everything was in order for the 3 sisters to remain pure. Wong Ka Lo kept her father company all along. As for reports that Wang Yu passed away alone, she responded, "My father didn't pass alone. I think my father's lifetime achievement isn't limited to the Golden Horse Award, but also us. He should be very proud." As for her uncle Kenneth Tsang Kong's funeral, Wong Hing Ping said that her uncle's family statement would be the official one. "Uncle has son and daughter, they would make the announcement."

[2022.04.29] KENNETH TSANG'S DAUGHTER WOULD LIKE EVERYONE TO REMEMBER HIS BEAUTIFUL SIDES

courtesy of singtao.com

Nancy Sit interviewed Kenneth Tsang last year.  She found the news of his passing hard to accept

Damien Lau feels lucky to have had scenes with Kenneth Tsang, which to him was quite an enjoyment
courtesy of mingpao.com

After over 60 years in show business, Kenneth Tsang Kong two days ago was found dead in his designated quarantine hotel room at age 87. Yesterdy at 10 AM, Tsang Kong's daughter Tsang Mo Suet, her husband, family and friends went to the Kwai Chung public morgue. In the company of the police they entered the morgue to pick up her father's remains. Tsang Mo Suet looked solemn throughout, but when she saw the large crowd of waiting press members she thanked them. After the procedures, Tsang Mo Suet left the morgue and spoke to the media. Was she able to see Papa for a final time? She said that originally they planned to meet after Papa returned to Hong Kong, but due to the quarantine period in the end they were unable to. "For now I won't discuss it in detail. Everyone is in the process of accepting it. I sincerely thank everyone for their concern for Papa. I hope Papa was ble to give good memories and stories to everyone, and everyone would remember Tsang Kong as young, handsome and a great actor." However did Father feel unwell before hand? She said, "At his age, he is in normal elderly physical condition." Reporters asked if Tsang Kong had heart problems? She continued, "A little, it's high blood pressure, it's very normal! Everyone can relax, he was very playful, liked to eat, liked to play. He truly enjoyed life. I wish everyone would remember this side of him. This incident was a stage." As for whether Tsang Kong had any final words, Tsang Mo Suet said that over the days she and father had phone contacts. Did the hotel send the medication to Father? She said that since something already happened she did not want to discuss it further. The family was slowly digesting the matter. As for the designated quarantine hotel's arrangement, she understood that the quarantine hotel was unable to do a lot. Perhaps everyone would imagine why something like this would happen, a lot required everyone to react to. She said about the funeral arrangement, "Thank you everyone for your concern. I can sense that Papa would feel everyone's love for him. I wish that everyone would remember him." The family was still in discussion about the arrangement and leaned to a low key affair. Did Tsang Kong talk about arrangement before? She said that to them it felt very sudden, but Papa was very honest and would not be scared. He felt that at his age, he would play when he could, eat when he could!

Also, Nancy Sit Ka Yin who worked with Tsang Kong since childhood admitted that she could not accept his passing. "I can't believe he went just like that. I really miss him, really miss him!" Sister Ka Yin remembered her interview with him last year for the Hong Kong Film Archives 20th anniversary. He spoke about his film experience and even invited co-star Sister Suet Lei to chat about working together over the years. They got nostalgic for awhile and had a very good time. After the program ended they even said that they would meet and have dinner more to catch up. However during the Lunar New Year the pandemic was severe, they did not make any further plan. Sister Ka Yin lamented, "Regrettably I didn't get to see him! However Brother Ken in our hearts, everyone knows he is a great actor, a jack of all trades, his acting is excellent, he excelled in everything. He could swim in the water and jump out of it. He was well educated. I benefit greatly from working with him, as he taught me a lot. Especially when I worked on movies in my teens, he even helped me with my homework. He helped me a lot. He deliberately made the trip to the program several times after, I am very heartbroken from losing a good friend!" Sister Ka Yin said that she contacted Connie Chan Bo Chu and Josephine Siao Fong Fong. They all missed him very much and felt very saddened. "I wish him a safe journey. Here I would like to send my condolences to Sister Chiao Chiao, Brother Ken's daughter and family. Everyone would remember him together!"

In addition, Jackie Chan wrote online that in his career he admired many people. Mr. Tsang Kong was one of them. Director Lee Lik Chi also remembered Tsang Kong. "You would always be our starlight!" Gallen Lo Ka Leung remembered Tsang Kong, praising, "Brother Ken was well educated and cultured!"

[2022.04.29] LEUNG CHUNG HANG IS MORE EXCITED THAN STRESSED

Leung Chung Hang has already cried at home once after hearing about his nominations
courtesy of singtao.com

Started as a stage actor, Leung Chung Hang with his first film ZERO TO HERO (MAMA DIK SUN KEI SIU JI) received double nominations at this year's Hong Kong Film Awards for Best Actor and Best New Performer. Achieving such a performance with his first time on the big screen, he described it as one tremendous surprise in life. He wished the most for this year's Hong Kong Film Awards to be able to have a physical award show, so he would be able to fulfill his red carpet wish. Leung Chung Hang graduated from the Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts. In school he already won many honors. This time with his first cross over to film his performance was already outstanding and recognized. He admitted, "After getting the role, I could only play the character well. Whether response, the performance it would achieve they were all beyond predicting and control. The nomination to me is a great surprise!"

ZERO under the pandemic made over HK$ 20 million and received almost 20 nominations. Did the pandemic help this film's performance? He said, "With less movie releases, the competition might have really been less. This film then had the attention of even more people, but this year's Hong Kong Film Awards merged two years of nominations. I am uncertain while that helped with the performance, but I have to thank viewers who still went to support the movie under the pandemic."

As for competing against three film industry elders Patrick Tse Yin, Gordon Lam Ka Tung and Francis Ng Chun Yu for the Best Actor, Leung Chung Hang admitted that he did not have much confidence. He was glad to take part and the nomination itself was already a great honor. "Honestly, I don't feel a lot of pressure. I am just excited because to him it is a bonus. In comparison to whether I have the confidence to win, I look forward to be able to participate in the Hong Kong Film Awards and walk the red carpet more. You can say it's a childhood dream for me, so I really hope that this year a physical award show would be able to take place."

Although everything remained up in the air, Chung Hang still would be fully prepared with a speech and all. "Basically when I was 18 and still in school, I already fantasized about giving a thank you speech on this stage. However I wouldn't dare to say whether I would be moved to tears. Actually when I got the nomination I already cried once at home, because it was really a very rare opportunity that I actually ran into. Life truly is very wonderful!"

Wednesday, April 27, 2022

[2022.04.28] KENNETH TSANG PASSED AWAY

courtesy of singtao.com

Kenneth Tsang won the Hong Kong Film Award Best Supporting Actor.  His acting has been recognized.

The Police arrives at the hotel to investigate

The remains are transported to the morgue
courtesy of on.cc


After 50 years in film, veteran actor Kenneth Tsang in 2015 with OVERHEARD 3 played a New Territories country land baron Luk Hon To and won the Hong Kong Film Award Best Supporting Actor.  At the time he thanked Heaven for granting him health, so he would still be able to enjoy acting.

Before returning to Hong Kong Kenneth Tsang visited Singapore and Malaysia and enjoyed durian in Malaysia.

Kenneth Tsang on Monday checked into the Kowloon Hotel for quarantine.  Yesterday morning he was found unconscious and confirmed dead on site.  A hearse took the remains to the morgue in the afternoon.

Some of Kenneth Tsang's classic roles

1980's Bigen hair color commercial with Kenneth Tsang  remains the collective memory of Hong Kong people.

In 2015 Patrick Tse slapped Kenneth Tsang and became the talk of the town.  At the 4 AMIGOS BON  VOYAGE press conference, Tse Yin claimed that Tsang Kong pretended to be sick and got rough.  Wu Fung tried to intervene and in the chaos his glasses flew off.  

Patrick Tse, Kenneth Tsang, Wu Fung and Joe Junior in 2015 worked on the TVB program 4 AMIGOS BON VOYAGE.  At the press conference after the slap incident with Tse Yin took place.  3 years later they on separate occasions said that they were "acting".  Wu Fung later took both Tse Yin and Tsang Kong to dinner, shattering the dispute rumors.

Chiao Chiao is Kenneth Tsang's third and current wife.  They wed in 1994 and have always been very loving.

Linda Wong is Kenneth Tsang's niece and often visits her uncle and aunt.  Currently in Taiwan dealing with her father's funeral, Linda Wong posted on Instagram, "We will miss you, Dear Uncle.  You were truly too carefree...We will always remember you."    

Kenneth Tsang and his second wife Tang Kung Pik had a daughter Tsang Mo Suet.

Kenneth Tsang in 2015 worked with Patrick Tse, Wu Fung and Joe Junior on 4 AMIGOS BON VOYAGE, at the press conference of which the Tse Yin slap incident took place.  3 years later they on separate occasions expressed that they were "acting".  Pictured is a photo Wu Fung posted from a dinner with both Kenneth Tsang and Patrick Tse in 2018.

The late star Jeanette Lin was Kenneth Tsang's sister and Linda Wong's mother
courtesy of mingpao.com

Yesterday veteran actor Kenneth Tsang Kong was found dead in a Kowloon quarantine hotel at age 87. After an initial investigation the police classified the case as "found body", the cause of death would wait for autopsy to determine. Tsang Kong this month went on holiday in Singapore and Malaysia, a leisure trip on which he also visited old friends. He was in show business for over 60 years and never said retirement. Because his heart was always with the Hong Kong film industry, he felt that at this difficult moment he should do his part. No one expected that after this trip to Singapore and Malaysia, he would sudden pass away at a hotel during the quarantine period. The news shocked the entertainment circle.

Yesterday around noon, an elderly man was found unconscious in a Tsim Sha Tsui hotel room. When the emergency medical team arrived it confirmed the death of the victim. The police entered the hotel in protective gear to investigate and was contacting his family and friends for an understanding of his health condition. According to on site information, the victim was veteran artist Kenneth Tsang Kong. Tsang Kong on the 25th returned to Hong Kong from Singapore and checked into the quarantine hotel. On the 26th his novel coronavirus rapid test result was negative. Tsang Kong's second wife, columnist Tang Kung Pik revealed two nights ago Tsang Kong called his stage actress second daughter Tsang Mo Sue and said that he had a dull pain in his chest. His son in law immediately brought medication to the hotel and asked the hotel staff to present it to his father in law. During the period Tsang Kong felt hungry, his son in law also agreed to arrange for the hotel to send a meal to the room. Yesterday morning Tsang Mo Suet called her father again but no one answered. She asked the hotel staff to check on him but still had no response. Tsang Kong's family demanded the hotel to open the door, but because Tsang Kong was in quarantine the Department of Health must be notified. The Department of Health personnel on patrol this morning found no response at Tsang Kong's hotel room. When the hotel employee opened the door Tsang Kong was found unconscious in his room. When the paramedics arrived on scene they confirmed his death.

Tsang Kong in the past would update his social media with his current status. For example on April 18th he shared a video of his solo trip to Malaysia. He wrote, "When I am free I would act a little and do what I like to do. I like new things, I like to walk around and try the delicacies." In addition on his trip to Singapore and Malaysia, he had local cuisine and of course did not miss the durian. However when he grew tired from walking, Tsang Kong would walk with a cane. He told the Malaysia media, "At my age, I have someone to take care of me wherever I go. This time I hope to take care of myself. Under the conditions of the lack of mobility, easily getting tired, and unfamiliar with tech products, I want to find the world I can touch." Tsang Kong even said at the time that if he felt that he could not take it he would return to Singapore then fly home. If he needed to be in quarantine then so be it. No one ever expected that this would be the final journey of his life.

Originally named Tsang Kun Yat, artist Tsang Kong was in the film industry for over 60 years. Born in 1934 in Shanghai, 1949 he emigrated to Hong Kong with his family. He was the brother of famous actress Jeanette Lin Tsui, the uncle of Linda Wong Hing Ping and Chan Shan Ho. Tsang Kong in his youth was educated in Hong Kong, then went to high school in the U.S. After form 5 he participated in some film productions and even went to the University of California at Berkeley to study architecture. After graduation he returned to Hong Kong and worked as an architect. However Tsang Kong thought the job of an architect was too dull. In the 60s he returned to show business.

A top Cantonese film era star, he played many classic roles like Wong Yeuk Si in the TVB series LEGEND OF CONDOR HEROES, Lung Sing Bong in THE GREED OF MAN (DAI SI SOI), Luk Kwok Wing in THE FINAL VERDICT (SAI BUK DAI TAU) and Uncle Kin in A BETTER TOMORROW (YING HUNG BOON SIK). The most memorable impression the audience had would certainly be his hair dye commercial. His line, "It can gradually turn black, it can also immediately turn black, it's done!" has become classic. Later Tsang Kong in 2013 and 2019 again worked on hair coloring commercial. He worked with Alex Fong Chung Shun in the 2019 one; Tsang Kong's final commercial was last year with MIRROR member Stanley Yau.

With his outstanding acting, Tsang Kong even caught the eyes of Hollywood. He was in big productions like TOMORROW NEVER DIES, MEMOIR OF A GEISHA and RUSH HOUR 2. In 2007 at the 16th Hong Kong Drama Awards  he won the Best Supporting Actor (Tragedy/Drama) award. In 2015 with the film OVERHEARD 3 (SIT TING FUNG WON 3) won the Hong Kong Film Award Best Supporting Actor.

Tsang Kong at the time said, "Thank you to those who love Hong Kong film. Their hearts and effort made Hong Kong Film Award smashing. Many people neglect their work. We as the film industry should thank them. Of course I have to thank the voters, thank the partners at work over the years. Without their tolerance, assistance and cooperation, how can we do our jobs well? Whether the partners at work are on or off screen, I thank them. Even more so I of course thank viewers who have supported me over the years. The most important is to thank Him (pointing at the sky). Thank Him for giving me good health. Without health how can I work? I wish that He would continue to support me and grant me good health. Here I see so many familiar faces, I am very happy to be together at a time and place, to share this honor with me. Thank you." In 2019 he received the 9th Asian Pop Up Cinema's Lifetime Achievement Award in Chicago.

Despite his age, his need for a hearing aid and a cane to move round, Tsang Kong admitted that he was unwilling to retire. The reason was that the Hong Kong film industry was in a difficult period, he felt that he still needed to do his part. Last year he participated in 3 movies including THE ATTORNEY (YUT CUP JI HUNG)and 3 internet films.

Tsang Kong talked about life and death in his Phoenix Entertainment interview. "Death, I feel it's an ending. I would like  the hope to not have too many regrets before this end, that would be good. I also have one more wish, when I go, I would spend all my money. I hope it's not spent on doctors and hospitals. I don't care what else it would be spent on, whether it's food, clothes, it doesn't matter. I just hope not to be in the hospital too much."

Wu Fung knew Ken for several decades and could not believe that this was true. After receiving the news he was at a loss. Many in the industry expressed sorrow and regret over the passing of Brother Ken.

Brother Sau after hearing the news of Brother Ken's passing, due to how sudden it was he could not believe it for a long time. He kept saying to himself he hoped it was not true. When Wu Fung heard that he had a problem at the quarantine hotel, he instead asked whether he "caught it (novel coronavirus)"? Brother Sau sadly said, "At this moment my emotions are all over the place, I just saw Brother Ken several months ago. (Was he hospitalized before?) I haven't heard about that." Because Brother Sau was too saddened, he did not want to speak more.

Linda Wong Hing Ping was Tsang Kong's niece. She often visited her uncle and aunt. Currently in Taiwan for her father Jimmy Wang Yu's funeral, Linda responded via text to the media that it was very sudden and she was heartbroken. "I am sorry, I have no idea what happened...Hong Kong reporter friends all just notified me. I am in Taipei, handling my father's affairs. At this moment I am not at liberty to say anything."

Joe Junior at first did not believe that Tsang Kong passed away. Later he read the report that confirmed the news and felt very saddened and upset. He missed his buddy who suddenly passed.

Joe was the youngest when he flew overseas with Wu Fung, Tse Yin and Tsang Kong for a program. He was under the care of three other "older brothers". Even when they had a little conflict, it was very minor and no one held a grudge.

After the program, they would occasionally have dinner and catch up. Although not everyone would be present, they would text each other to check in. The last time the "Four Amigos" met was a private dinner in August last year. At the time they could not stop chatting as they looked back at past experience on the set. Joe said, "On the screen, Tsang Kong played many roles and perhaps gave people the impression that he was not easy to get close to. The person I knew actually was very emotional, direct with words, true to nature, he didn't like to be coy. So being friends with him was very pleasant. At dinners, Brother Sau and I would sing nostalgic songs. Tsang Kong and Sei Gor would mostly listen, but Tsang Kong occasionally would sing a few verses when he felt like it."

Joe lamented that his buddy left without saying goodbye and reminded everyone to pay more attention to their health. Lately he loved to hike with his wife for exercise and remembered to maintain a positive state of mind.

As for Patrick Tse Yin, his phone went directly to voice mail. As of the article's deadline no reply has been received.

Having worked with Tsang Kong many times, friend Law Kar Ying was very surprised to hear the news and lamented, "Hong Kong has lost another multi-talented actor." Brother Kar Ying said that he admired Tsang Kong's performance skills the most. He said, "Tsang Kong's acting had a presence, a style, only he had this type of dignified presence that others could not learn no matter what. This was a very rare aura." Brother Kar Ying also praised him for really knowing how to performance, his Putonghua was fine, Cantonese decent, English was good too. He was able to use different languages at will. His passing truly was a loss to the film and television industries.

Best Actress Teresa Mo Shun Kwan said at the "Makerville" press conference, "He was my elder. I think he had health issues. It's not whether hotel quarantine was hard to handle. I guess it wouldn't be a issue due to the quarantine. However I don't what happened to him so I am not at liberty to speak. I am very saddened. (When was the last time you worked together?) A very long time go, on television. I don't even remember how long ago."

Che Suk Mui felt the passing of Tsang Kong was sudden. She wrote online, "Brother Tsang Kong passed away, Heaven took away our beautiful man who was true to nature, highly educated and a great actor! He graduated from UC Berkeley in the US and returned to join the film industry...the most memorable for me was that he mentioned in an interview, after diving he would wear all the diving gear and flappers to the streets of Causeway Bay to wait for a ride. He cracked up and his laughter shook the studio! This was the Brother Tsang Kong we would miss! Have a safe journey..."

Having worked with Brother Ken on a hair coloring commercial, Fong Chung Shun said, "Mr. Tsang Kong, have a safe journey. I will always remember you." Joel Chan Shan Chung said that he grew up watching Tsang Kong. The news was heartbreaking and he wished a safe journey for Tsang Kong. He said that elder Tsang Kong respected his profession, took every detail very seriously and did not need to bring the script to the set.

Monica Chan Fat Yung said, "I am really very saddened. We worked together on the television series A DREAM NAMED DESIRE (MEI LAI CHUEN SUET), he played the mean father in law. However privately he was very easy going, a invaluable elder. Mr. Tsang, have a safe journey! You will be missed forever!" Michael Tong Man Lung said, "The forever master of the East Evil's Peach Blossom Island, Brother Ken, have a safe journey!" Other artists who remembered Brother Ken included Damien Lau Chung Yan, Yeung Chiu Hoi, Clifton Ko Chi Sum, JJ Jia, Michelle Ye and Toby Chan Ting Yan. Wan Lau Mei was saddened over Tsang Kong's passing and remembered when they worked together on RTV and RTHK programs. She felt he was very "handsome".

Toby Chan Ting Yan on Instagram posted a photo with Tsang Kong, Tse Yin and others. She wrote, "I just saw the news and heard about the great elder Mr. Tsang Kong, fans must be hurting very much. I wish you a safe journey! I am grateful that I was able to be the host of the press conference that Mr. Tsang Kong was a part of. It was destiny."

TVB issued a statement. "Veteran artist Mr. Tsang Kong (Originally named Tsang Kun Yat) was a performing art elite, Hong Kong film and television legend. Mr. Tsang's final work for this station was the variety program FOUR AMIGOS BON VOYAGE. When the bad news arrived this afternoon, everyone at this station are saddened over Mr. Tsang Kong's passing and send its condolence to his family."

Helena Law Lan kept asking why did it happen and stated that she was upset. "We worked together since black and white films, at TVB we worked together on many series. He was very professional, direct, with this buddy we have worked together for so long that we only saw less each other less in the past few years. Last year at Wu Fung's 2021 concert we saw each other. At the time he was very healthy, spoke loudly and didn't give the impression that he was sick. Instead I have aches and pains all over. I am 88, life is really very hard to predict -- just peacefully live day by day."

Justin Cheung Kin Sing worked with Tsang Kong on THE ATTORNEY and played father and son. He said that despite his lack of hearing, he still worked very hard on the set. Aside from following the script he would add his own ideas about character designs. May he rest in peace in Heaven, sharing joy and happiness. Everyone should properly cherish those around them.

Michelle Yim (Mai Suet) heard the news and admitted that she was upset. She mentioned that she worked with Tsang Kong on EAGLE SHOOTING HEROES early on. Tsang Kong was the director, while at CTV they worked together often. Later they were each busy on their own. When they saw each other again it was many years later. Most recently they said that they should meet and catch up but he passed before they were able to. As for her impression of Tsang Kong, Mai suet felt that having studied abroad he was very gentlemanly. She met him when she was very young. At the time she knew nothing at all and received a lot of guidance from him, whether it was acting, fight scenes and even table manners. He was like a teacher so she really respected him. The most memorable was when they worked together on location in Nepal. Because of cleanliness Tsang Kong would not eat casually. He would bring eggs to the shoot out of safety. When they were on location and dined together, Tsang Kong would teach her how to order food. She has seen many of his films with Connie Chan Bo Chu and Josephine Siao Fong Fong.

Best Actor Louis Koo Tin Lok who worked with Tsang Kong on the film OVERHEARD said, "He was a good actor and a good elder who span different eras. I just heard the news and haven't been able to digest it. Of course I felt very saddened and sorrowful. I wish the elder a safe journey."

Simon Yam Tat Wa worked with Tsang Kon on the film MAN ON THE EDGE and YUEN SUN JUI. Yam Tat Wa was shocked and heartbroken. "He was an elder I respected very much, an elder who would always shine in show business. I would always and forever respect and miss him. Mr. Tsang Kong, have a safe journey. He was very humorous. Working with him was very pleasant. Earlier I kept flying all over, sometimes I would run into him in the boarding area. We would chat even without touching our coffee. From him I learned a lot about life. It truly is very regrettable."

Eddie Cheung Siu Fai posted a photo to remember Tsang Kong online. They worked together on the series SIBLINGS OF VICE AND VIRTURE, the first that Cheung Siu Fai was the lead in. He wrote, "At the time I was very nervous. When I saw Tsang Kong, an elder who always looked serious, I was even more scared. After becoming familiar over a week, he turned out to be an elder who was very humorous and glad to help the young generation. Thank you for your lessons, I was fortunate to have worked with you on my first series. Have a safe journey, I will miss you..."

Patrick Tam Yiu Man remembered Tsang Kong, "Brother Ken: Son! Life is like a soccer match, before it ends you don't know whether you would win or lose! You have to keep fighting! This was Brother Ken's advice to me once upon a time, I still remember it now! I remember when I first got into the business, the naivety of being curious about you not bringing a script to the set and still be so amazing! From you I learned that passion and professionalism. Although you rarely spoke and act more, your cool yet a little carefree ways already were the perfect demonstration for us. Actors actually need to have this scent. Brother Ken benefit us a lot, and made deep contributions. #always missed #have a safe journey #you would always be the good elder we respect."

Bowie Lam Bo Yi worked with elder Tsang Kong on many series, but he has not seen him in a long time. The last time was in 2016. He described him as an international actor who was well versed in English. "Very regrettable, it was like yesterday. At the time the two directors responsible were very afraid of elder actors. I said not to be. I was present everyday. When Tsang Kong arrived he already memorized the script. He was very professional, he even hurried the directors to work. His passing was a tremendous loss to the film and television world." Speaking of Tsang Kong slapping him in the series, Bowie said that Tsang Kong was very professional and held back. The result however was very realistic and just took one take.

MIRROR member Stanley Yau who worked with Tsang Kong on a commercial last year posted a story on his Ig. "It's very sudden, RIP Uncle Tsang Kong, thank you for your guidance." Stanley saw that the news was very shocking. At the time he did not sense anything different with Uncle Tsang Kong's health. His mind was crystal clear, and he was able to walk and move. Stanley said that Uncle Tsang Kong was very willing to advise the younger generations. Although it was only a commercial, he paid attention to every detail and even took the initiative to communicate with the director. He admired the elder.

Family and friends have been taking calls on the phone of Tsang Kong's wife Chiao Chiao. They pointed out that "Mrs. Tsang currently is busy" and hung up.

The handsome Tsang Kong had three marriages in his life. His first wife was THE BIG CIRCUS' co-star Cheung Loi Tai (also known as Nam Tai(Lan Di)). They wed in 1969 and had one son, but the marriage lasted 10 years before ending in divorce. Their son followed his mother and settled in Canada. Tsang Kong's second marriage was with columnist Tang Kung Pik in 1980 and they had a daughter, stage actress Tsang Mo Suet. The marriage also lasted 10 years and ended. Tsang Kong with Taiwan actress Chiao Chiao wed in 1994. The third marriage lasted 28 years until now.

Tsang Kong in 2014 participated in the Mainland version of GRANDPAS OVER FLOWERS, visiting over 10 cities in France, Switzerland and other locations. Tsang Kong on the program told Liu Ye's wife about his view on life and death, saying that those around him passed away one after another. He has already prepared himself mentally, he would be the most worried about his wife.

He also described himself as being under his wife's full control. For his wife to be at ease, he revealed that in Europe he would always call his wife just to check in. "She wasn't too worried about my health, but she was more worried about my personality. I don't get along with others easily."

In 2015 Tsang Kong, Patrick Tse Yin, Wu Fung and Joe Junior worked on the TVB travel program FOUR AMIGOS BON VOYAGE. Tsang Kong during the shoot had a gout attack and needed a cane. Due to an accident in a Jeep he had a nose bleed for four hours and was hospitalized. Later he had to be in a wheel chair to complete the shoot, with Sei Gor, Sau Gor and Joe Junior taking turns to push him around.

The quartet later on the program press conference bought the matter up again. Sei Gor said that during the shoot he was already upset, saying that Tsang Kong was pretending to be sick. During the program dubbing Tsang Kong accused him of keeping them from getting off work. Sei Gor got more emotional as he spoke and even wanted to slap Tsang Kong. Sau Gor who sat between Sei Gor and Tsang Kong intervened. In the chaos Sau Gor's glasses were knocked off, as Sei Gor stormed off in a rage.

The incident shocked show business. Sei Gor years later revealed that slapping Tsang Kong was just acting, a marketing tactic. He was set up. He and Tsang Kong were actually very close. Afterward he took Tsang Kong for ice cream. However Tsang Kong said that they did not coordinate before hand. When he was slapped he was very surprised. 3 years after the slap, Tse Yin and Tsang Kong put their differences aside and had dinner with Sau Gor.

[2022.04.28] LOUISE WONG AND FISH LIEW LOOK FORWARD TO THE HONG KONG FILM AWARDS RED CARPET

Fish Liew and Louise Wong would turn from sisters into rivals in their next collaboration
courtesy of singtao.com

courtesy of on.cc

Fish Liew and Louise Wong would work together again on a new film

Louise Wong and Fish Liew play sisters Anita and Ann Mui.  They learned to sing in Nam Yam in order to play the roles well.

Fish Liew suggests for her and Louise Wong to wear suits while Terrance Lau would wear a dress for the Hong Kong Film Awards
courtesy of mingpao.com

Louise Wong Dan Nei with the film ANITA would compete for the Hong Kong Film Award Best Actress and Best New Performer. Fish Liew Chi Yu with ANITA and LIMBO (JI CHI) received two Best Supporting Actress nominations. Wong Dan Nei and Liew Chi Yu on and off screen are close, as soon as they saw each other they congratulated each other as their sisterhood was in full display.

Wong Dan Nei with her first movie immediately received two nominations. She excitedly said, "I never thought that I would have as many as two nominations. The nominations were already great rewards and encouragement. I am very happy that other actors were nominated as well, I went to the cinema and watched their performances to show my support." Her portrayal as Anita Mui Yim Fong received good reviews, she also became the Best Actress favorite. She said that actually she would be happy no matter who would win and thanked everyone for thinking this way, which to her was even more encouraging and motivating. However Wong Dan Nei picked her "older sister" Liew Chi Yu, because she has worked hard for years. Actually every actor gave their all to their roles in hopes of affecting the audience. She truly felt that everyone could win, so no matter who would she would be happy. She was a blank slate and would maintain her original intention. She would work hard and do her job well, she would not feel that because she played Mui Yim Fong she had any advantage. Among the two nominations, new performer could only be won once a lifetime. She would like to win this award more, but she would be very satisfied with just getting to walk the red carpet. Was this a good start for her journey? Wong Dan Nei said, "I have been very lucky, absorbed a lot. I am really in the green, at least I understand what is acting!"

Liew Chi Yu at first did not dare to have expectation to speak of, but actually ended up with two nominations. "I am very grateful my name Liew Chi Yu would be listed with such excellent actors. I came to Hong Kong from Malaysia, I could answer to my compatriots with the performance alone!" This time she would be competing against herself with the two nominations. "I might as well try throwing them in the air and see which one hits, but I have put an effort into playing both characters. I believed that I would leave it to fate and in the hands of the professional voters. If I chose one I couldn't answer to the other one. Actually I have been in this business for awhile, I am not famous enough though so few know me. However I felt very honored to be able to make ANITA this time. I gained a lot, so I couldn't be too greedy. I would share the luck and let it take its natural course. It's not my personality to want too much anyway. This time I consider to have answered to the ancestors and have been very good!" However she said that she missed her family in Malaysia. In December last year she returned for a movie and saw her family that she has not seen for two years due to the pandemic. Unfortunately Papa was working in Indonesia and she has not seen him for over 3 years. Currently they stayed in touch through the internet.

The Hong Kong Film Awards changed its date time and again to July. Wong Dan Nei and Liew Chi Yu both looked forward to walking the red carpet soon, dressing up and sharing this moment with the team. As for what they would wear, they expressed that they would coordinate, but the designer already told Liew Chi Yu not to wear a suit anymore. Wong Dan Nei however felt that she looked very cool in suit. Liew Chi Yu joked, "Going to the bathroom in a suit is much more convenient than in a dress. Being a guy is very lucky, when girls would feel cold he could take off his jacket for them to warm up." Liew Chi Yu also praised Wong Dan Nei that with her height she certainly would look good in a suit. They have agreed to both appear in a suit.

In the film ANITA, they played sisters Ann Mui Oi Fong and Anita Mui Yim Fong. In the future the same team would work together gain, but this time they would turn into rivals. With the relationship change, they both felt that this interpretation would feel fresh. Although they were rival they would not be romantic rivals. Because the script was still being processed, for now they could not reveal too much. Turning from sisters to enemies, Liew Chi Yu joked that she was afraid that she loved Wong Dan Nei too much and thus would make getting into the role difficult. Could they try arguing? She joked, "I can't, I would cry!"

Tuesday, April 26, 2022

[2022.04.27] FOR THE WEEK ENDING SUNDAY, APRIL 24 2022

For the week ending Sunday April 24 2022
Photos courtesy of Yahoo! Movies Hong Kong


G STORM POSTER

10 G STORM
  Can : G Fung Bo
    d. David Lam Tak Luk
    Louis Koo Tin Lok, Julian Cheung Chi Lam, Kevin Cheng Ka Wing,
      Jessica Hester Hsuan (Suen Huen), Bosco Wong Chung Chak, Rosyam Nor,
      Michael Tse Tin Wa, Louis Cheung Kai Chung,
      Janelle Sing (Anika Xia Yan), Dick Liu Kai Chi, Dada Chan Jing,
      Lo Hoi Pang, Babyjohn Choi Hon Yik, Deon Cheung Chung Chi,
      Toby Chan Ting Yan, Wilfred Lau Ho Lung,
      Ding Haifeng, Sienna Li (Lee Yan Ngok), Kendy Cheung King Yan,
      Liu Mengna (Lau Mong Na), Elisa Ye (Yip Hei Yuet),
      Eddie Cheung Siu Fai, Eddie Kwan Lai Kit, Justin Cheung Kin Sing,
      Li Fung, Ken Law Ho Ming, Aaron Chow Chi Kwan, Jason Wu Cheuk Hei,
      Terry Zou (Chow Man Ching), Brian Chan On Lap
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 93 mins.
  Opening December 31 2021
  Teaser : https://youtu.be/mJiX1TOWlwc
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/wknnaRuF0dk

[ THE FILM CATALOGUE ]
    William Luk solves the terrorist attack in the ICAC Symposium in Thailand, but therefore targeted by the terrorist. William is investigating a corruption case in Immigration Department, but soon finds it links with human trafficking in Thailand. The Princess Ariya from Thailand visits Hong Kong for a global forum and attacked by the terrorist. Things linked together and William suspects an undercover terrorist is hiding inside the forces...

ANITA POSTER

  9 KAMEN RIDER BEYOND GENERATIONS
    d. Takayuki Shibasaki
    Kentaro Maeda, Subaru Kimura, Shuichiro Naito, Wataru Hyuga,
      Ayaka Imoto, Yui Asakura
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 97 mins.
  Opening April 21 2022
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/nlLCmJ4JoAo

[ MCL CINEMA ]
    Ikki Igarashi finds an old ticket in Happy Spa, a public bathhouse owned by his family. While Ikki is looking for the ticket owner, a powerful evil raids him. Even with the power of the Kamen Rider Revise and assistance from Kamen Rider Saber, Ikki and Toma still cannot defeat it. At the same time, Kamen Rider Century comes from 2071 and attacks them too...

    Who is Kamen Rider Century? And what is his purpose? The secret of Kamen Rider is going to be exposed.

SPIDER-MAN NO wAY HOME POSTER

  8 SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME
    d. Jon Watts
    Tom Holland, Zendaya, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jacob Batalon,
      Jon Favreau, Bendict Wong, Tony Revolori, Marisa Tomei


G STORM POSTER

  7 DRIVE MY CAR
    d. Ryusuke Hamaguchi
    Hidetoshi Nishijima, Toko Miura, Masaki Okada,
      Reika Kirishima, Sonia Yuan

CUBE POSTER

  6 CUBE
    d. Yasuhiko Shimizu
    Masaki Suda, Masaki Okada, Hikaru Tashiro, Takumi Saito,
      Anne Watanabe, Kotaro Yoshida

SCREAM POSTER

  5 SCREAM
    d. Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillet
    Neve Campbell, David Arquette, Courtney Cox,
      Jack Quaid, Jenna Ortega

THE UNBEARABLE WEIGHT OF MASSIVE TALENT POSTER

  4 THE UNBEARABLE WEIGHT OF MASSIVE TALENT
    d. Tom Gormican
    Nicolas Cage, Pedro Pascal, Tiffany Haddish, Neil Patrick Harris

SING 2 POSTER

  3 SING 2
    d. Garth Jennings
    Illumination Animation
    English Voices: Matthew McConaughey, Reese Whitterspoon,
      Scarlett Johansson, Taron Egerton, Seth McFarland

MOONFALL POSTER

  2 MOONFALL
    d. Roland Emmerich
    Halle Barry, Patrick Wilson, John Bradley, Michael Pena,
      Charlie Plummer, Wenwen Yu, Donald Sutherland



FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE SECRETS OF DUMBLEDORE POSTER

  1 FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE SECRETS OF DUMBLEDORE
    d. David Yates
    Eddie Redmayne, Jude Law, Ezra Miller, Dan Fogler, Callum Turner,
      Katherine Waterston, Alison Sudol, Mads Mikkelsen

[2022.04.27] FOR THE WEEK STARTING SATURDAY, APRIL 23 2022

For the week starting Saturday, APRIL 23 2022 (Week 17)

VIUTV CHILL CLUB CHART


  5 HALF
  Can : Boon
  Jeremy Lee Chun Kit

  4 SWEETLY
  Can : Bo Fook Sik Long Man
  Jay Fung Won Him

  3 REGRESSION
  Can : Mau Jung Lo Pung Yau
  Terence Lam Ka Him

  2 NOBODY BUT YOURSELF
  Can : Moot Yau Yun Hor Yi Wai Nei Hung Fook Fu Jak
  Alfred Hui Ting Hung


  1 HAVE ME
  Can : Yau Ngor
  Jason Chan Pak Yu

[2022.04.27] THE 46TH HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL'S FILMMAKER IN FOCUS IS SANDRA NG

The 46th Hong Kong International Film Festival selects Sandra Ng to be the Filmmaker in Focus.  She jokes that this year's choice is too beautiful
courtesy of mingpao.com

Best Actress Sandra Ng Kwan Yu was selected as the 46th Hong Kong International Film Festival's Filmmaker in Focus. Having made a deep impression as a comedy star, she has made over 140 movies in her career and become the actress with the highest cumulative box office in Hong Kong film history. Kwan Yu has not only created countless comedic characters but also held her own as a behind the scene producer. The Film Festival chose 10 of Kwan Yu's films for fans to enjoy, including THE INSPECTOR WEARS SKIRTS (BA WON FA), LOVE IS LOVE (MONG FU SING LUNG), 4 FACES OF EVE (4 MIN HA WA), PORTLAND STREET BLUES (GOO WAT JAI CHING YI PIN JI HUNG HING SUP SAM MUI), JULIET IN LOVE (JU LAI YIP YU LEUNG SAN BAK), JIANG HU: THE TRIAD ZONE (GONG WU GO GUP), DANCE OF A DREAM (OI KWAN YU MUNG), GOLDEN CHICKEN (GUM GAI), ECHOES OF THE RAINBOW (SHUI YUET SUN TAU) and ZERO TO HERO (MAMA DIK SUN KEI SIU JI).

The Hong Kong International Film Festival Association director Albert Lee said, "Ng Kwan Yu has always dared to challenge different character, from an inclusive prostitute, mob leader to kind mother her delicate acting puts ordinary characters' extraordinary levels on display. Her transformation in her show business career witnessed the rise and fall of Hong Kong mainstream films. With her woman's instinct and personal determination she created a new horizon and became one of the most influential female stars in the Chinese region. We are very honored to be able to invite her to become the 46th Hong Kong International Filmmaker in Focus."

Kwan Yu shared the news on social media and screamed with excitement. "As a comedy star, a comedy actor I received this honor of the filmmaker in focus, which makes me the most emotional!" She also posted on her story that "this year's Hong Kong International Film Festival Filmmaker in Focus is truly too beautiful." Kwan Yu would attend a Hong Kong celebrity forum, share stories and experience from her show business life.

[2022.04.27] TABLE FOR SIX WINS APPLAUSE AT ITS UDINE PREMIERE

Stephy Tang claps along with the end credit song
courtesy of singtao.com

courtesy of on.cc

TABLE FOR SIX (FAN HEI GUNG SUM) would compete for the 24th Udine Far Festival Film Festival's Mulberry Award for Best Screenplay. Stephy Tang as the lead actress represented the film and attended the film festival. The film held a premiere there and the response was enthusiastic, whether foreign viewers would appreciate the comedy in TABLE FOR SIX was everyone's focus. Stephy said, "Before the screening I was concerned about this problem. I thought whether Italian would laugh at our expressions in our comedy. During the viewing I paid attention to the subtitles, the translations and everyone's response. All of the reactions were better than I imagined. Everyone didn't just laugh but laughed happily. For some spots the entire audience rocked the place with laughter. This reaction moved me very much. I was very happy. I felt that comedy truly had no border."

Stephy said that after the show, she stood up to accept everyone's applause. Then she clapped along with the end credit song and the entire audience clapped along with her. She was very touched.

Monday, April 25, 2022

[2022.04.26] TEDDY CHAN RELEASES BOOK FOR CHARITY AND HIS BIRTHDAY

Peter Kam, Lawrence Cheng, Cheung Kwok Ming, Teddy Robin Kwan all show support for Teddy Chan's book
courtesy of singtao.com


courtesy of mingpao.com

BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS (SUP YUET WAI SING)'S Hong Kong Film Awards winning director Teddy Chan Tak Sum yesterday held a new book release event. Good friends Lawrence Cheng Tan Shui, Cheung Kwok Ming and Teddy Robin Kwan came to congratulate him. Today is Chan Tak Sum's 64th birthday. He admitted that this book was a birthday gift for himself. He was the happiest that all proceeds from this new book would be donated to charity.

Chan Tak Sum revealed that in his 30s he already wanted to write a book to chronicle his film industry experience. "When I made action films, a lot happened. Some even made the sacrifice, like when I made BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS I ran into many obstacles. So I wanted to turn my determination in this industry, some unhappy setbacks into positive energy; like this world has war and illness everywhere, I hope to find a way out!" He said that after years of consideration, he finally spent a year last year with a friend to pen the book. The book also mentioned many friends in the business. in his life before directing, he talked about Teddy Robin Kwan, Cheung Kwok Ming, Kirk Wong Chi Keung. He even mentioned how when working with Tsui Hark he was kept from taking a meal break as a prank. Then in the second half of his life, Chan Tak Sum admitted that he had help from many benefactors. One of them was music maker Peter Kam Pui Tat, Another was Lawrence Cheng Tan Shui, who during the RTV era went from special contract to the same screenwriting team, who was his groomsman and asked him to make the first movie.

Does Director Chan have any new project currently? Chan Tak Sum pointed out that his action films would take over 100 people. With the pandemic investors worried about any hindrance would halt production. "I feel the pandemic probably would disappear so quickly, but of course I hope that it would be gone soon. all the co-production projects I thought up have been halted. I may work with Taiwan, but film couldn't wait. Hong Kong has over 20,000 to 30,000 film workers, but only 2 to 3 films are in production. Some for a living switched to television. Although it's a way to survive, in the long run filmmakers ultimately want to make movies."