[2023.02.01] FOR THE WEEK ENDING SUNDAY, JANUARY 29 2023

For the week ending Sunday, January 29 2023

10 M3GAN
    d. Gerard Johnstone
    Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, Amie Donald,
      Ronny Cheng, Brian Jordan Alvarez, Jen Van Epps,

  9 A MAN CALLED OTTO
    d. Marc Forster
    Tom Hanks, Mariana Trevino, Rachel Keller, Manuel Garcia-Ruffo

  8 SAY I DO TO ME
  Can : 1 Yun Fun Lai
  Lit : 1 Person Wedding
    d. Kiwi Chow Koon Wai
    Sabrina Ng Ping, Kelvin Chan Kin Long, Candy Lo Hau Yam,
      Jacky Tong Hoo Yin, Mixson Wong Bo Cheung, Isabel Chan Yat Ning,
      Gregory Wong Chung Hiu, J Lou (Lam Yun)
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 115 mins.
  Opening January 20 2023 (Preview)
  Opening January 26 2023
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/CLZKC2n5Z78

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    "I want to marry myself!"

    To plan for a solo wedding, to marry myself, to declare my forever love for myself to the world!

    Attractive comedienne Ping vows to become a viral Youtuber. She concocts a plan to put on a show of marrying herself in what was meant to secure both money and likes! However, the scam ultimately ended up in the discovery of her true self in this coming-of-age fairy tale comedy.

    To love others, I must love myself. Simple enough, right? But who am I? In a pageant of love, four contest as lovers, each one goodhearted in their own right. Does Ping want all four or none at all? By marrying herself, can she figure out who she really is? And who she really loves? Ping will tell it all on the day of the solo wedding...

    In this satire of marriage and the individual self, nothing is left untouched: women, men, organised religion, homosexuality, the filthy rich, not to mention ye good old mother! Love yourself in Say I do to me, won't you?

  7 TO MY NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD SELF
    Can : Cup Sup Gau Shui Dik Ngor
    d. Mabel Cheung Yuen Ting
    Documentary
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 136 mins.
  Opening August 21 2022 at the Hong Kong International Film Festival
  Opening October 12 2022 (Preview)
  Opening December 23 2022 (Preview)
  Opening January 26 2003

[ THE 46TH HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ]
    Sparked by the demolition and reconstruction of its century old campus, Ying Wa Girls' School embarks on a project to chronicle the transformation of its students through the penetrating camera of director Mabel Cheung, its distinguished alumni. Following a group of young students since 2011, the documentary captures the trials and tribulations that go with the most turbulent decade in Hong Kong's history. An up-close and honest coming-of-age saga, with fascinating stories to tell, and personal journeys of self-discovery and realisation.

  6 SAKRA
  Can : Tin Lung Bak Bo ji Kiu Fung Juen
    d. Steve Cheng, Donnie Yen Chi Tan
    Donnie Yen Chi Tan, Yukee Chen Yuqi, Cya Liu,
      Kara Wai Ying Hung, Wu Yue, Grace Wong Kwan Hing,
      Eddie Cheung Siu Fai, Ray Lui Leung Wai
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 130 mins.
  Opening January 16 2023 in Malaysia
  Opening January 19 2023
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/9xuJkDlBWI4

[ CINEMA CITY ]
    During the Northern Song dynasty, Qiao Feng, the leader of the Beggars' Sect, was a heroic and chivalrous man who was respected by the whole martial arts world. But he was suddenly accused of being a Khitan, which made him isolated by friends and allies. Qiao Feng met Azhu the maid from Murong family on his journey to find out about his origin and enemies...

[ CINEMA ONLINE MALAYSIA ]
    Under the reign of Emperor Zhe Zong, an unlikely bond is formed between three very different men. The first is Qiao Feng, the courageous leader of the beggar clan. His clan looks up to him for always defending them, but when he is accused of being of Khitan descent and labelled a traitor, he is shunned by his fellow martial artists. The second is Duan Yu, the cheerful young prince of Dali. He avoids learning martial arts due to his hatred of conflict, and often runs away from his problems. The third man is Shaolin Monk Xu Zhu, who is a skilled martial artist torn between 2 powerful clans. As these three embark on their personal journeys of self-discovery, they find their way into each other's lives.

  5 PAWS OF FURY: THE LEGEND OF HANK
    d. Chris Bailey, Mark Koetsier, Rob Minkoff
    Nickelodeon Animation
    English Voices: Michael Cera, Ricky Gervais, George Takei,
      Gabriel Iglesias, Michelle Yeoh, Samuel L. Jackson
    Cantonese Voices: Edan Lui Cheuk On,
      Stanley Yau, Shirley Chan Yan Yin

  4 AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER
    d. James Cameron
    Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana,
      Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Kate Winslet

  3 THE FIRST SLAM DUNK
    d. Takehiko Inoue, Yasuyuki Ebara
    Japanese Animation
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 124 mins.
  Opening January 12 2023

[ EMPEROR CINEMAS ]
    Slam Dunk is a shonen manga by Takehiko Inoue that was serialized in Shueisha's Weekly Shonen Jump from 1990, issue No. 42, to 1996, issue No. 27. The series, which depicts the personal growth of several high school basketball players, has sold more than 120 million copies in Japan. It has inspired numerous boys and girls to get into basketball. An anime series (that ran from October 1993 to March 1996), several video games, and other media based on the manga have also been produced. The Slam Dunk Scholarship was established in 2006 to support young basketball players in Japan. In 2018, a new, 20-volume shinsoban edition with all new cover illustrations was published, with volume divisions at each milestone in the story. An artwork compilation, PLUS / SLAM DUNK ILLUSTRATIONS 2, was released in 2020 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the series' launch.

  2 EVERYTHING UNDER CONTROL
  Can : Chiu Sun Gaing Hai Gip Ong Ha
  Lit : Under Super Crazy Armed Robbery Case
  AKA : Fei Sun Gaing Hai Gip Ong Ha
  Lit : Under Not Crazy Armed Robbery Case
  AKA : Chiu Sun Gaing Hai Gip Ong
  Lit : Super Crazy Armed Robbery Case
    d. Ying Chi Wan
    Hins Cheung King Hin, Ivana Wong Yuen Chi,
      Jeffrey Ngai Chun Sun, Kaho Hung, Michael Ning (Bak Ji),
      Bonnie Wong Ching Yi, Yau Chung Wai,
      Angus Yeung Tin Yue, Carl Ao Ieong Chun Hou (Hou Dee),
      Aaryn Cheung Ming Wai, Suey Kwok Sze
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 126 mins.
  Opening January 21 2023
  Teaser: https://youtu.be/wByEEMOrAcg

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    During a diamond heist, one of the security escorts steals the diamonds and flees. Fellow security escorts Yau Shing and Jelly are forced to help the robber track down the diamond. Tracking the diamonds, they stumble into a secluded village. While they clash with the weird villagers, the three men suspect that they are being haunted by a female ghost.

  1 A GUILTY CONSCIENCE
  Can : Duk Sit Dai Jong
  Lit : Poison Tongued Lawyer
    d. Jack Ng Wai Lun
    Dayo Wong Tze Wa, Tse Kwan Ho,
      Louise Wong Dan Nei, Fish Liew Chi Yu,
      Michael Wong Man Tak, Dee Ho Kai Wa, Renci Yeung Sze Wing,
      Adam Pak Tin Nam, Bowie Lam Bo Yi,
      Vincent Kok Tak Siu, Sheldon Lo (Law Hau Yung)
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 135 mins.
  Opening January 7, 14 2023 (Preview)
  Opening January 21 2023
  Teaser : https://youtu.be/JRUKWIv59Uw
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/DYJ828h8k4M

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    A simple supermodel's child abuse case becomes the battleground of justice, power, and fame. When the apex society exercises every network and resource to save itself, how will the barristers pursue justice?

[2023.02.01] FOR THE WEEK STARTING SATURDAY, JANUARY 28 2023

For the week starting Saturday, January 28 2023 (Week 4)

VIUTV CHILL CLUB CHART

  5 HEAR ME OUT
  VSing

https://youtu.be/GkAi3zhD4_A

  4 START OVER
  Can : Moot Hui Chung Loi
  Paula Au Tsz Lam

https://youtu.be/VDb2a5vsO7w

  3 HOMO SAPIENS
  Can : Yun Ah Yun
  Eason Chan Yik Shun

https://youtu.be/p8kyyGCEMCY

  2 MY POLYHYMNIA
  Can : Ngor Dik Bor Lei Hoi Nei Ah
  Kay Tse On Kay

https://youtu.be/CJ_CML6sc4E

  1 APOLLO
  Can : Ah Bor Law
  Jeremy Lee Chun Kit

https://youtu.be/O2VV7ODIGVc

[2023.02.01] A GUILTY CONSCIENCE BECOMES 9TH HIGHEST GROSSING HONG KONG FILM

Jinny Ng goes to the movies with husband Alex
courtesy of on.cc

courtesy of singtao.com

The Dayo Wong starred A GUILTY CONSCIENCE has repeatedly set new records since its release

SAY I DO TO ME's director Kiwi Chow and actress Sabrina Ng attend an audience appreciation event 

Adam Pak and Alannah Oh attend A GUILTY CONSCIENCE special screening
courtesy of mingpao.com

Adam Pak Tin Nam, Allanah Ong (Lam Siu Cham), Jinny Ng Yeuk Hei and husband Alex Ho Siu Hung, Candy Yu On On, Yuen King Tan, Sharon Kwok Sau Wan and Kong Chi Nei two nights ago attended A GUILTY CONSCIENCE (DUK SIT DAI JONG)' show business guest special screenings. The busier the 82 year old Lam Siu Cham would get the more energetic she would become, as she would start production on several films. Ng Yeuk Hei said that this year career would come first as she would not have another baby.

Pak Tin Nam said that aside from being busy with audience appreciation events recently, he also came to support his on screen "mother in law" Lam Siu Cham. He pointed out that this time from Sister Siu Cham he learned that as an actor the most necessary was have politeness and character. Speaking the film after 10 days has already passed HK$ 55 million at the box office, he praised the script as well written. At the same time he was very grateful to the Hong Kong audience for its support. He also said that if the box office would climb higher, he would try to satisfy all the viewers' requests on his live stream as a show of appreciation. Would he appear in swim wear? He joked, "This one seems to be Ah Dee (Ho Kai Wa)'s, he said he would wear swimming trunks. (Would you show off your muscles?) If that would be a live request, we will see. Actually I am happy, reaching HK$ 55 million in 10 days is very sharp. In addition the word of mouth has been great, but we still really need everyone's support." Playing the villain in the film, he also felt that as an actor he should not mind whether the role was good or bad. As long as he could get into character he was fine.

Sister Siu Cham after the special screening already flew to Canada to visit her family yesterday. "I haven't been back in 3 years, I really miss them. This time my son and daughter bought the plane ticket, I would stay for a month." Sister Siu Cham revealed that after returning to Hong Kong he would work on Johnnie To Kei Fung's new film and two Mainland films. The 82 year old said that busier the better, instead without work she would feel very tired. Her family has also been very supportive. Sister Siu Cham said, "In 2019 I won Best Supporting Actress in Canada, at the time I was 79. People asked me when I would retire, I said I would act until I would be 100."

The Lunar New Year film A GUILTY CONSCIENCE last night reached HK$ 58 million and landed in ninth place in Hong Kong film historical box office. Lead Dayo Wong Tze Wa posted, "Dresses are pulled and pants are falling, all because of you!" The Kiwi Chow Koon Wai directed SAY I DO TO ME (1 YUN FUN LAI) opened on the second Lunar New Year slot on January 26th and has made HK$ 1.9 million. Some online said that the SAY I DO TO ME was in box office trouble and started a box office pumping movement. Chow Koon Wai has been promoting hard on social media and revealed that more and more people have been booking entire shows to enjoy the film.

A GUILTY CONSCIENCE has been extremely topically. Many viewers have said that they have seen it two to three times. Speaking of many scenes being cut, like the intimate scene between Louise Wong Dan Nei and Fish Liew Chi Yu in the production special, someone has asked for a "director's cut" release.

Aside from A GUILTY CONSCIENCE's box office success, during the Lunar New Year EVERYTHING UNDER CONTROL (CHIU SUN GAING HAI GIP ONG HA) was also closed to HK$ 15 million. The Japanese animation THE FIRST SLAM DUNK passed HK$ 35 million.

The Chow Koon Wai directed SAY I DO TO ME after 4 days (January 23rd to 29th) made over HK$ 1.6 million and accumulated over HK$ 1.9 million. Some online said that SAY I DO TO ME was in box office trouble. Some restaurants in order to help with the box office gave 10% discount with the movie's ticket stubs; some stores gave away a free ticket coupon, hoping client3s would take another person to the movie.

SAY I DO TO ME has about 100 shows daily, but they have been either early or late shows. Many have said that they wanted to support the movie but said it would not be easy. Director Chow Koon Wai has been promoting hard on social media and shared that different units have booked shows. "More and more people have been booking shows to enjoy SAY I DO TO ME." In order to thank the audience for its support, Chow Koon Wai and lead actress Sabrina Ng Ping today and tomorrow would attend audience appreciation events.

[2023.02.01] SERVICES FOR VETERAN ACTOR CHEN MAN LEI BEGIN

Chen Man Lei passed away in December at age 78 from the novel coronavirus

The hall plays a montage of Chen Man Lei's family photos and his FALLEN ANGELS performance

Wong Kar Wai sends a floral arrangement
courtesy of mingpao.com

Veteran actor Chen Man Lei passed away due to the novel coronavirus on December23rd at age 78. Yesterday a Buddhist ceremony and Christian memorial services took place at the Universal Funeral Parlor. Today the funeral and the cremation ceremony would take place, and his remains would be transported to his ancestral home of Fujian for burial. Chen Man Lei participated in many films, and in 1995 with the film FALLEN ANGELS (DOR LOK TIN SI) received his Best New Performer nomination at the 15th Hong Kong Film Awards. FALLEN ANGELS' director and screenwriter Wong Kar Fai sent a floral arrangement and wrote "Always Missed". The hall also played Chen Man Lei and his family's photos and videos of his films.

Chen Man Lei's youngest daughter Chen Choi Fung said that her father two years ago was diagnosed with end stage kidney failure. At the time Father decided to use the palliative care service, without dialysis. In November last year his condition deteriorated. On December 20th he was diagnosed with novel coronavirus and passed away 3 days later. She continued, Father originally constantly commuted between the Mainland and Hong Kong. He operated a factory in the Mainland while acting in Hong Kong. Years ago after completing the film THREE HUSBANDS (SAM FU) his health started to decline. With his leg ailment he retired and settled in Hong Kong. At the final stage of his life, his 4 children were all by his side. Father originally wanted to see his grandson, who was studying in the Mainland, celebrate his 16th birthday. Otherwise he did not have any regret.

[2023.02.01] HINS CHEUNG'S NEW FILM REACHES HK$ 15 MILLION

Hins Cheung thanks Ian Chan for celebrating his birthday with him

Hins Cheung performs at a female fan's wedding.  Hana Kuk is also one of the special guests
courtesy of on.cc

Hins Cheung King Hin would turn 42 today. After fans celebrated with him at a shopping center in advance, he also celebrated with Ian Chan Cheuk Yin and several friends over dinner. Three nights ago he also performed at a female fan's wedding banquet.

Hin Jai received good news on the eve of his birthday. His Emperor Motion Picture EVERYTHING UNDER CONTROL (CHIU SUN GAING HAI GIP ONG HA) made around HK$ 15 million. Before and after the Lunar New Year he has been busy with audience appreciation event, so today he took a day off with the company for his birthday to properly enjoy Me time. Tomorrow he would resume work and continue to attend public events.

MIRROR member Ian last night held a birthday banquet last night to celebrate "Lord Hin's Birthday". Two hunks posed for a photo together and posted it on social media. Many fans left messages to wish him Happy Birthday. Hin Jai repeatedly thanked Ian's attentive arrangement. "Thank you Chairman Chan and several close friends for the birthday dinner, which has been heart warming and touching." He said that he almost wanted to cry and wished all sincere friendships would always be forever young.

In addition, Hin Jai three nights ago took time to perform at a female fan's wedding. Hin Jai responded, "Actually 3 years ago I already knew about this mission, but the wedding due to the pandemic has been rescheduled many times. This time was the first time I performed in front of so many people since I tested positive, suspended the concert series then recovered. The whole thing became very meaningful." The wedding banquet also invited Peter Tsang Pei Tat and Hana Kuk Chi Kiu as special guests and Derek Wong Kin Tung and Jacquelin Ch'ng Se Man as hosts.

[2023.01.31] CHIN KAR LOK WISHES FOR JOBS FOR EVERYONE EVERYDAY

courtesy of on.cc

The Hong Kong Stuntman Association on the Lunar 7th (28th) held a New Spring group visit. President Chin Kar Lok, two honorary presidents Eric Tsang Chi Wai and Yuen Woo Ping attended. Guests included Yuen Cheung Yan, Tsui Siu Ming, Lam Kwok Bun, Ken Low Wai Kwong, Candy Yu On On, Pai Piao, Chin Siu Ho, Chung Fat, Lam Wai, Yuen Qiu, Kam Tung, Yeung Pan Pan, Andrew Lau Wai Keung and others. Having been away from the public eye in awhile, the SHANG CHI AND THE LEGEND OF TEN RINGS star Yuen Wa also attended. He returned from Canada, kept his white beard and his shape.

President Chin Ka Lok said, "After three years of the pandemic, I am pleased that the Hong Kong film industry has begun to revive. I wish everyone to be working everyday." He even hoped to be able to discover the next generation as successors. Tsang Chi Wai said that the Association has been so united because Chin Kar Lok tirelessly made contacts everywhere. Even he was also bothered to death. After the pandemic he wished for tea every season to eat Chin Kar Lok poor. Tsang Chi Wai and Lam Kwok Bun also sponsored HK$ 100,000 each for Association charity event and operations.

The eldest member known as Fa Jai Yuen (Yeung Kwok Yuen) is already 102, but still was able to move around rapidly and joke around. He became the target of everyone's photos. Every year at the Spring banquet the Association would honor the elders for their effort and contributions to action films and set up special prizes. This year the outstanding contribution award recipients included the late John Tsui Chung Shun (Association vice president), Lau Sin Wing (Mountain Monster), Leung Tung Hau (Ba Shan) and Cheung Wing Hon. The Outstanding Action Performance Award went to Cheung Wing Cheung (Ah Fu). In addition, Association members and guests voted for their two favorite action films, CAUGHT IN TIME (CHUI BO) (action director: Johnny Tang Shui Wa) and RAGING FIRE (NO FOR) (action director, Donnie Yen Chi Tan and Kenji Tanigaki).

[2023.01.29] MABEL CHEUNG HOPES TO MY NINETEEN YEAR OLD SELF WOULD BRING HER SCHOOL A POOL

Mabel Cheung goes to her alma mater to attend her film TO MY NINETEEN YEAR OLD SELF's swear in ceremony, and promote the film's release on the 2nd

Mabel Cheung jokes that her 5 junior colleagues looked like fat birds during the shoot and now they are grown up and beautiful

Her boyfriend Alex Law passed away last year. Mabel Cheung puts herself fully into work and would not give herself too much time to think
courtesy of mingpao.com

Mabel Cheung Yuen Ting directed the documentary film TO MY NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD SELF (CUP SUP GAU SHUI DIK NGOR) for her alma mater, the Ying Wa Girl's School. From production to post production the film took 10 years and would open on February 2nd. Cheung Yuen Ting yesterday went to her alma mater to attend the film swear in ceremony. The 5 junior colleagues in the film also shared their experience. TO MY NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD SELF earlier won the Hong Kong Film Critic Society Award Best Film, the previews also won word of mouth and box office. The current take has already exceeded HK$ 6.7 million and in seventh place for now for the Lunar New Year. Cheung Yuen Ting was very grateful, as she hoped to raise money for the alma mater to build a swimming pool. She said that young people after watching the film felt that their souls have been soothed, which made her very pleased.

Cheung Yuen Ting yesterday went to her alma mater, the Ying Wa Girls' School, to attend the upcoming release TO MY NINETEEN-YEAR -OLD SELF's swear in ceremony. Before the film has been officially released, it has already won the 29th Hong Kong Film Critic Society Award for Best Film. She has been very grateful. The preview box office has already reached HK$ 6.7 million and placed 7th for now on the Lunar New Year box office. Cheung Yuen Ting said that she has never thought that a ticket for the preview would be so hard to find. When she learned that it was screened on many cinemas she felt even more scared. "At first my biggest wish is to make the movie good, to have someone to help with its distribution. Just having some people to come and watch would be enough. Now it has already exceeded expectation."

Cheung Yuen Ting said that during the shoot she never thought about making money, now that it seemingly would be able to raise money for the alma mater. She said, "The box office proceeds would go to my alma mater. If it would be able to raise enough money to build a swimming pool for the alma mater it would be good!" This is another absurd dream, because when I saw a group of junior colleagues having to come back and climb 2000 steps to be able to swim I felt very bad for them; however whether the alma mater would use the sum to build a swimming pool I don't know. The headmaster said that it would take several tens of millions and told me not to talk about the dream like a crazy person. However dreaming a little is good too."

Speaking of the 5 junior colleagues from the film having already grown into adulthood, Cheung Yuen Ting joked that when they were little they were like fat birds. Now they are much prettier, and she almost could not recognize them. Indeed she felt a lot of sentiments. However they had no interest in entering the business. "People have their own goals, I too hope that they would find their own ideals and not always follow me."

Cheung Yuen Ting said that at the previews many viewers shared their experience after the screenings. Some young people's experience left her the deepest impression. "He said that the past 10 years have been very lonely, facing so many changes in the society he felt very down. However after watching the film, he realized that actually young people of this generation all had to face the same things. He did not feel alone and his soul was soothed. At first I never thought about being so noble when I did this. If it would be able to soothe young people's souls, I would be very pleased."

Speaking of boyfriend Alex Law Kai Yui's passing last year, Cheung Yuen Ting felt saddened. "Luckily I had this documentary film. It kept me from falling into a black hole. I built a little garden next to the black hole. I just hid in the garden to cultivate and grow. Even during post screening talks and interviews, I would give my greatest effort to this documentary film. I didn't give myself too much space or time to think."

[2023.01.29] LOUIS KOO, HINS CHEUNG PLAY FORTUNE GODS AT FILM INDUSTRY SPRING BANQUETS

courtesy of on.cc

Lord Hin with over 1,000 of his fans

Hins Cheung celebrates his 42nd birthday in advance
courtesy of mingpao.com

This year many film associations held spring banquets. Two days ago the Society of Film Editors Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Film Arts Association held two separate large scale gatherings. As the Federation of Hong Kong Filmmakers' president, Louis Koo Tin Lok went to both. Despite being busy with promoting his Lunar New Year film, Hins Cheung King Hin also took the time to attend along with Gordon Lam Ka Tung, Jeffrey Ngai Chun Sun and others. The events were rather cheerful. Koo Tin Lok went all over the venues and chatted with elders like Ting Yu, making everyone very happy. He also played "Fortune God" and took HK$ 200,000 out of his own pocket for the lucky drawing. Cheung King Hin, Andrew Lau Wai Keung and others also added to the cash prize pool, bringing joy to the world!

In addition, Cheung King Hin earlier held an advanced birthday party at Kowloon Bay. Over 1,000 fans made a cake with his new record look. He quickly agreed to perform their dedication of his song CHERLAS, then he sang UNDER THE CHERRY BLOSSOM TREE with everyone. Having performed 3 concert series under the pandemic, he admitted that they had obstacles galore. However each time he started again he had support. Thus he wanted to hold a birthday event to show his appreciation.

[2023.01.28] SAY I DO TO ME STARS PROMISE SURPRISES WHEN THE FILM WOULD REACH HK$ 10 MILLION

Director Kiwi Chow feels film is art.  Providing different choices for viewers in the Lunar New Year is a win win.

Sabrina Ng and Chan Kin Long promise if the film would reach HK$ 10 million they would present surprises.  The former would appear in a bikini and the latter would "streak"

Candy Lo has recovered from surgery 
courtesy of mingpao.com

The Chapman To Man Chak invested Lunar New Year romantic comedy SAY I DO TO ME (1 YUN FUN LAI) two nights ago held its premiere in Tsim Sha Tsui. Director Kiwi Chow Koon Wai led Sabrina Ng Ping, Chan Kin Long, Candy Lo Hau Yam, Gregory Wong Chung Hiu and other actors to the event. Chow Koon Wai breathed a sigh of relief after the film was finally released. He once worried about the audience response, box office performance and whether it would pass inspection, but this was a romantic comedy and he was just being excessively concerned. With strong competition from many Lunar New Year films, he felt that film is art, providing the audience with different genres to choose from is win win. He has already completed his mission after making the movie. The box office would be beyond his control and was up to the audience and Heaven to decide. Lead actress Ng Ping gave herself 75 points, as she wanted to have even more opportunities to make even more movies.

Chow Koon Wai two nights ago appeared at the premiere. Speaking of the film being successfully released, he said that he felt relaxed and excited as he truly breathed a sigh of relief. Earlier indeed he had more concerns, like the preview reactions, box office performance and whether the investors would lose money. However by the premiere, he felt that he should change his state of mind. Since some things are beyond his control, he might as well enjoy the result and the joy of the film's birth.

Speaking of facing A GUILTY CONSCIENCE (DUK SIT DAI JONG), EVERYTHING UNDER CONTROL (CHIU SUN GAING HAI GIP ONG HA) and SAKRA (TIN LUNG BAK BO ji KIU FUNG JUEN), Chow Koon Wai said that he had no box office expectation. Ultimately factors like show numbers, audience experience and others are very hard to control. He also did not want to describe the other films as oppositions. "I of course want every movie to have good box office. I am more of an idealist. Ultimately I feel film is art, every movie would have different level of the audience. Having different genres for the audience to choose from, I feel it is a win win."

As for receiving a thousand word letter of support that said he had no regret from supporting Chow Koon Wai from To Man Chak, Chow Koon Wai said that he was touched, thanked him for support him and this movie. How would he repay him? He said, "I already repaid him by making the movie. He has been very pleased. Some things are beyond our control so we give it up to Heaven. Actually as long as people would pay attention to this movie, whether good or bad, being able to attract more viewers I would already be very moved." Has he been worried that the movie would not pass inspection? He said that he would worry at every step of the process, but now everything is in the past.  "This is a surreal romantic comedy, so I feel it was just excessive worry. (Did you run into any obstacle during cinema circuit negotiations?) This is completely beyond my control. As To Man Chak has said, if the movie would make movie he believed that more shows would be added. I am the creator, I have already completed the most important task. How would this movie keep going, it would be up to distribution, marketing, the audience and Heaven to decide."

Making her big screen debut, Ng Ping said that she was much happy than nervous as she gave her score of 75 points. She even had a little acting addiction and hoped to have more opportunities to make movies. She revealed that in the film she and Chan Kin Long would have in intimate scenes, but she did not have enough and hoped for more next time. A director himself, Chan Kin Long said, "Although the movies I direct would have fewer girls, but as long as I have a female role I would offer it to Ah Bing." Did she have any box office pressure? Ah Bing said, "I would attend more audience appreciation events, everyone after watching the movie might see me bow in appreciation." Chan Kin Long revealed that Ah Bing has promised to appear in a bikini if the box office would pass HK$ 10 million. Ah Bing said, "I was referring to photos, Chan Kin Long said that he would go streaking." Chan Kin Long joked that he did not say which body part he would bare.

Lo Hau Yam revealed that earlier she had rhinosinusitis and went to the hospital for an operation. Now she has already recovered, but at first she really was surprised. After the surgery she no longer has any issue. She said that due to the pandemic she has not made a movie in over 3 years. This time work was a lot of fun. She hoped to have more opportunities to make movies in the future. Aside from acting, she also has plans to perform a concert this year. The scale would not matter, as she hoped to be able to work in both music and movies.

[2023.01.27] EDDIE CHEUNG BOOKS A SHOW FOR SENIORS OUT OF RESPECT

Eddie Cheung feels seniors have contributed a lot to society and are worthy of respect
courtesy of on.cc

Eddie Cheung Siu Fai booked a show on the Lunar 4th to treat a group of seniors to enjoy his and Donnie Yen Chi Tan's film SAKRA (TIN LUNG BAK BO ji KIU FUNG JUEN). Before the show, many seniors asked for photos. He received praised from one of the grannies. "Fai Jai is kind and handsome, I really like him!" The seniors were so excited and happy during the fight scenes that they often applauded.

Cheung Siu Fai said that he invited the seniors to watch the movie, feeling that they have made many contributions to the society and are worthy of respect of concern. Aside from hoping to have a happy gathering during the New Spring holiday and enjoy the film entertainment, he also wanted the Hong Kong film industry to get back on track in the new year. "As life begins to resume to normal, the most important is world peace, stars to shine again, good health and for the pandemic to leave us forever."

[2023.01.27] A GUILTY CONSCIENCE TOPS THE LUNAR NEW YEAR AS DAYO WONG'S BOX OFFICE PASSES HK$ 100 MILLION IN HALF A YEAR

Dayo Wong thanks viewers in a video, saying that if the film would reach shocking box office numbers he could appear in person to thank the audience again at anytime.

 A GUILTY CONSCIENCE director Jack Ng would like to work on an all new subject film with the original team

The Donnie Yen directed and starred SAKRA has made HK$ 2.56 million in 7 days

EVERYTHING UNDER CONTROL comes in second during the Lunar New Year

Gardner Tse says that he would sing if the film would reach HK$ 100 million
courtesy of mingpao.com

The Hong Kong Box Office Co. Ltd. yesterday announced over the 2023 Lunar New Year period, from the Lunar New Year's Eve to the Lunar 3rd (January 21st to 24th) the total box office was HK$ 50.85 million. Due to the pandemic, cinemas were ordered to close over the 2021 and 2022 Lunar New Year golden periods in coordination with the government pandemic prevention policies. Thus in comparison with the 2020 Lunar New Year's HK$ 42.89 million under the early influence of the pandemic, the box office has risen 18.58%. However in comparison to the 2019 box office of the same period, HK$ 61.47 million, it has declined 17.27%.

"Tze Wa God" Dayo Wong Tze Wa again created godly "deed", as his Lunar New Year film A GUILTY CONSCIENCE (DUK SIT DAI JONG) has been the sole success. After opening on the 25th and 5 days in release it became the fastest film to pass HK$ 30 million in Hong Kong history, and the Hong Kong Lunar New Year film opening and single day box office best performer of the past 5 years as well as Wong Tze Wa film's opening champion. Along with TABLE FOR SIX (FAN HEI GUNG SUM), Wong Tze Wa's total box office in half a year passed HK$ 100 million and set a new personal record. A GUILTY CONSCIENCE's performance in the U.S. and Canada has been just as brilliant, as it became the Lunar New Year Hong Kong film box office, admission and screen number champion of the past 5 years.

Also Lunar New Year releases, Hins Cheung King Hin's EVERYTHING UNDER CONTROL and Donnie Yen Chi Tan's SAKRA (TIN LUNG BAK BO ji KIU FUNG JUEN) came in second and sixth on the cumulative box office (as of the 25th). The former made HK$ 11 million (5 days in release), while the latter made HK$ 2.56 million (7 days in release). In third was THE FIRST SLAM JUNK, the Japanese animation that made almost HK$ 30 million after 14 days in release. In fourth and fifth were AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER with HK$ 130 million and PAWS OF FURY: THE LEGEND OF HANK with almost HK$ 3 million. The Mabel Cheung Yuen Ting directed, the 29th Hong Kong Film Critic Society Award Best Film TO MY NINETEEN YEAR OLD SELF (CUP SUP GAU SHUI DIK NGOR) has not yet been officially release but has made HK$ 6.7 million in preview and landed in seventh place.

A GUILTY CONSCIENCE kept breaking records, and Wong Tze Wa felt very surprised. "Back then AGENT MR. CHAN (DONG DUK DUT GUNG) took awhile to reach several million at the box office. Now A GUILTY CONSCIENCE took in over HK$ 6 million a day, it was a shocking record. Actually I have been rather lucky to be able to break my own record, making two quality films TABLE FOR SIX (FAN HEI GUNG SUM) and A GUILTY CONSCIENCE. I hope to be able to continue to make a third good movies. I am grateful for accumulating over HK$ 100 million at the box office in half a year, thank you viewers for your support and to the behind the scene creators."

After 20 years without going to a late show, Wong Tze Wa on the Lunar New Year's Eve went to see GUILTY with friends. He said, "Friends got chest pains from watching it, because the drama was intense. The audience also quietly enjoyed it, very few went to the bathroom. I thank everyone for their focus. I hope everyone would continue to support late shows, and thank Al Pacino for making Lam Leung Shui happen. Because he doesn't know Chinese, the character fell into my hands." Wong Tze Wa said that if GUILTY would reach further shocking box office numbers, he would at anytime appear in person for audience appreciation events.

A GUILTY CONSCIENCE's director Jack Ng Wai Lun and actors Louise Wong Dan Nei, Gardner Tse Kwan Ho, Adam Pak Tin Nam and others were very excited to learn about the success of their new film. The director hoped to be able to make an all new subject film with the original team, which he believed would be a lot of fun. Tse Kwan Ho said, "I am very grateful to everyone, the more the better. If I really want to give a number, it might as well be 100 million. Then I would sing a song for all the elders." Pak Tin Nam said that if the box office would reach HK$ 90 million he would broadcast live for several hours. Then everyone could post messages and bring up their requests to all their hearts' content.

[2023.01.27] A WOUNDED HINS CHEUNG STILL ATTENDS AUDIENCE APPRECIATION EVENT

courtesy of on.cc

courtesy of singtao.com

Wong Ching Yi cannot be happier to be between Jeffrey Ngai and Hins Cheung

Actors from EVERYTHING UNDER CONTROL pose for a group photo with the audience
courtesy of mingpao.com

The Hong Kong Lunar New Year film box office has been rather hot this year. Hins Cheung King Hin lately promoted nonstop for his Lunar New Year Emperor Motion Picture EVERYTHING UNDER CONTROL (CHIU SUN GAING HAI GIP ONG HA). Last night he led Jeffrey Ngai Chun Sun, Wong Ching Yi, Kaho Hung, Cheung Ming Wai and others to an audience appreciation event at Causeway Bay and celebrated the box office surpassing HK$ 13 million. Would they head toward the goal of HK$ 20 million? Hin Jai said, "I will keep working hard, I am already very happy with this performance. It's very surprising. I am not a full time actor, some of my co-stars are rookies. We have divided into two teams, and attended over 80 audience appreciation shows." Ah Jeng and Jeffrey hoped that the box office would reach HK$ 38.88 million for a good omen. In addition, Hin Jai's arm was bandaged. He said that while cleaning up his recording studio on the Lunar 3rd a box of master tapes crushed his left arm. "The box of master tapes is over 40 pounds, inside are the original soundtrack master tapes from the film YOUNG AND DANGEROUS (GOO WAT JAI) and SHE IS A WOMAN, HE IS A MAN (GUM JI YUK YIP). It is like destiny, in July I would open up the recording studio to everyone." He also thanked Jeffrey and Tyson Yoshi for visiting him recently. Jeffrey said that he gave him a bottle of wine. Ah Jeng joked whether it was Dit Da Jow.

[2023.01.26] FOR THE WEEK ENDING SUNDAY, JANUARY 22 2023

For Sunday, January 22 2023

10 TO MY NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD SELF
    Can : Cup Sup Gau Shui Dik Ngor
    d. Mabel Cheung Yuen Ting
    Documentary
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 136 mins.
  Opening August 21 2022 at the Hong Kong International Film Festival
  Opening October 12 2022 (Preview)
  Opening December 23 2022 (Preview)
  Opening January 26 2003

[ THE 46TH HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ]
    Sparked by the demolition and reconstruction of its century old campus, Ying Wa Girls' School embarks on a project to chronicle the transformation of its students through the penetrating camera of director Mabel Cheung, its distinguished alumni. Following a group of young students since 2011, the documentary captures the trials and tribulations that go with the most turbulent decade in Hong Kong's history. An up-close and honest coming-of-age saga, with fascinating stories to tell, and personal journeys of self-discovery and realisation.

  9 THE NARROW ROAD
  Can : Jat Lo Mei Chun
  Lit : Narrow Road Miniscule Dust
    d. Lam Sum
    Louis Cheung Kai Chung, Angela Yuen Lai Lam, Patra Au, Chu Pak Hong
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 116 mins.
  Opening August 15 2022 at the Edinburgh International Film Festival
  Opening October 25th 2002 at the Hong Kong Asian Film Festival
  Opening October 29th 2022 at the Asian Pop Up Cinema
  Opening December 22nd 2022
  Site : https://www.edfilmfest.org.uk/index.php/2022/narrow-road/08-18_14-00#booking-panel
  Site : https://www.hkaff.asia/en/film/2022/detail/129

[ HONG KONG ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL ]
    In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, honest cleaning service owner Chak hits tough times as a terrible economy and a dearth of supplies threatens his business. In need of an assistant, he hires Candy, a young single mother with a penchant for stealing. The two slowly forge a bond, but the cruel realities of the pandemic loom on the horizon. Painfully timely but also tender in parts, Lam Sum's film is a poignant portrait of what happens when modern poverty is further exacerbated by an unprecedented calamity. It's a remarkably assured directorial effort enhanced by moving performances.

[ EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ]
    In the early days of the pandemic, Chak, struggling to keep his cleaning company afloat, hires single mother Candy. But as the chemistry between them develops, Candy finds it hard to abandon the survival tactics of deception she’s always needed to get by. Featuring gorgeous cinematography of night-time Hong Kong and a trio of exceptional performances, The Narrow Road is a humanist charmer, sensitive to the tough reality of lives lived with no margin for error. [15] Kate Taylor

[ SCREEN DAILY ]
    This social drama focuses on the owner of a small cleaning company who can barely make ends meet. A new hire of a young single mother helps keep his business afloat until the pandemic worsens.

  8 MAMA'S AFFAIR
  Can : Ah Ma Yau Jor Dai Yi Gor
  Lit : Ma Has Someone Else
  AKA : K Fung Bo
  Lit : K Storm
    d. Kearen Pang Sau Wai
    Teresa Mo Shun Kwan, Keung To, Jer Lau Ying Ting
  Rating : I
  Length : 127 mins.
  Opening at the Osaka Asian Film Festival 2022
  Opening July 26 2022 at the New York Asian Film Festival
  Opening August 11 2022
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/bLNcvaR-pXw

[ THE FILM CATALOGUE ]
    As MEI-FUNG, housewife and former top artiste manager, unearths a new star in CHING, she also draws jealousy from her teenage son HIN. Can a single mother find a balance between her family and her career? Is her dedication driven by love or responsibility?

[ SCREEN DAILY ]
    A former talent manager, now a single mother, discovers a new star. She has to overcome her teenage son's jealousy and find the balance between career and family.

  7 PAWS OF FURY: THE LEGEND OF HANK
    d. Chris Bailey, Mark Koetsier, Rob Minkoff
    Nickelodeon Animation
    English Voices: Michael Cera, Ricky Gervais, George Takei,
      Gabriel Iglesias, Michelle Yeoh, Samuel L. Jackson
    Cantonese Voices: Edan Lui Cheuk On,
      Stanley Yau, Shirley Chan Yan Yin

  6 SAKRA
  Can : Tin Lung Bak Bo ji Kiu Fung Juen
    d. Steve Cheng, Donnie Yen Chi Tan
    Donnie Yen Chi Tan, Yukee Chen Yuqi, Cya Liu,
      Kara Wai Ying Hung, Wu Yue, Grace Wong Kwan Hing,
      Eddie Cheung Siu Fai, Ray Lui Leung Wai
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 130 mins.
  Opening January 16 2023 in Malaysia
  Opening January 19 2023
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/9xuJkDlBWI4

[ CINEMA CITY ]
    During the Northern Song dynasty, Qiao Feng, the leader of the Beggars' Sect, was a heroic and chivalrous man who was respected by the whole martial arts world. But he was suddenly accused of being a Khitan, which made him isolated by friends and allies. Qiao Feng met Azhu the maid from Murong family on his journey to find out about his origin and enemies...

[ CINEMA ONLINE MALAYSIA ]
    Under the reign of Emperor Zhe Zong, an unlikely bond is formed between three very different men. The first is Qiao Feng, the courageous leader of the beggar clan. His clan looks up to him for always defending them, but when he is accused of being of Khitan descent and labelled a traitor, he is shunned by his fellow martial artists. The second is Duan Yu, the cheerful young prince of Dali. He avoids learning martial arts due to his hatred of conflict, and often runs away from his problems. The third man is Shaolin Monk Xu Zhu, who is a skilled martial artist torn between 2 powerful clans. As these three embark on their personal journeys of self-discovery, they find their way into each other's lives.

  5 M3GAN
    d. Gerard Johnstone
    Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, Amie Donald,
      Ronny Cheng, Brian Jordan Alvarez, Jen Van Epps,

  4 EVERYTHING UNDER CONTROL
  Can : Chiu Sun Gaing Hai Gip Ong Ha
  Lit : Under Super Crazy Armed Robbery Case
  AKA : Fei Sun Gaing Hai Gip Ong Ha
  Lit : Under Not Crazy Armed Robbery Case
  AKA : Chiu Sun Gaing Hai Gip Ong
  Lit : Super Crazy Armed Robbery Case
    d. Ying Chi Wan
    Hins Cheung King Hin, Ivana Wong Yuen Chi,
      Jeffrey Ngai Chun Sun, Kaho Hung, Michael Ning (Bak Ji),
      Bonnie Wong Ching Yi, Yau Chung Wai,
      Angus Yeung Tin Yue, Carl Ao Ieong Chun Hou (Hou Dee),
      Aaryn Cheung Ming Wai, Suey Kwok Sze
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 126 mins.
  Opening January 21 2023
  Teaser: https://youtu.be/wByEEMOrAcg

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    During a diamond heist, one of the security escorts steals the diamonds and flees. Fellow security escorts Yau Shing and Jelly are forced to help the robber track down the diamond. Tracking the diamonds, they stumble into a secluded village. While they clash with the weird villagers, the three men suspect that they are being haunted by a female ghost.

  3 AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER
    d. James Cameron
    Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana,
      Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Kate Winslet

  2 THE FIRST SLAM DUNK
    d. Takehiko Inoue, Yasuyuki Ebara
    Japanese Animation
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 124 mins.
  Opening January 12 2023

[ EMPEROR CINEMAS ]
    Slam Dunk is a shonen manga by Takehiko Inoue that was serialized in Shueisha's Weekly Shonen Jump from 1990, issue No. 42, to 1996, issue No. 27. The series, which depicts the personal growth of several high school basketball players, has sold more than 120 million copies in Japan. It has inspired numerous boys and girls to get into basketball. An anime series (that ran from October 1993 to March 1996), several video games, and other media based on the manga have also been produced. The Slam Dunk Scholarship was established in 2006 to support young basketball players in Japan. In 2018, a new, 20-volume shinsoban edition with all new cover illustrations was published, with volume divisions at each milestone in the story. An artwork compilation, PLUS / SLAM DUNK ILLUSTRATIONS 2, was released in 2020 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the series' launch.

  1 A GUILTY CONSCIENCE
  Can : Duk Sit Dai Jong
  Lit : Poison Tongued Lawyer
    d. Jack Ng Wai Lun
    Dayo Wong Tze Wa, Tse Kwan Ho,
      Louise Wong Dan Nei, Fish Liew Chi Yu,
      Michael Wong Man Tak, Dee Ho Kai Wa, Renci Yeung Sze Wing,
      Adam Pak Tin Nam, Bowie Lam Bo Yi,
      Vincent Kok Tak Siu, Sheldon Lo (Law Hau Yung)
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 135 mins.
  Opening January 7, 14 2023 (Preview)
  Opening January 21 2023
  Teaser : https://youtu.be/JRUKWIv59Uw
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/DYJ828h8k4M

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    A simple supermodel's child abuse case becomes the battleground of justice, power, and fame. When the apex society exercises every network and resource to save itself, how will the barristers pursue justice?