[2026.07.15] KUNG FU SOCCER ANNOUNCES HONG KONG RELEASE DATE

One of the KUNG FU SOCCER Hong Kong poster is "Double 8" Sisley Choi at the goal

Stephen Chow while thanking the audience runs into Jason Pai Piao (right photo) and they trade pleasantries

Sisley Choi has been promoting KUNG FU SOCCER on social network and even teaches someone online how to say "Double 8" in Cantonese

KUNG FU SOCCER after 4 days in release has accumulated 740 million yuan RMB in the mainland
courtesy of mingpao.com

The Stephen Chow Sing Chi (Sing Yeh) written and directed film KUNG FU SOCCER (GONG FU NUI JOOK) was recently released first in mainland China, earning 740 million RMB (about 850 million HKD) in 4 days and attracting 20 million viewers. The official announcement yesterday announced that the film will be released in Hong Kong and Macau on August 13th. One of the Hong Kong posters showed "Double 8" Sisley Choi Si Bui defending the goal. She has been "using her power" on social media for several days, revealing that she was covered in injuries from filming action scenes. She also taught everyone to say "Double 8" in Cantonese over a live stream. Currently in mainland China, Sing Yeh made many visits to thank the audience. At a theater in Chengdu, he met the first-generation "Kwok Ching" Jason Pai Piao in the audience. Pai Piao had nothing but praise for the film. Sing Yeh 'returned the favor' and said that he was a Pai Piao fan, as he joked, 'Finally someone......can say that I grew up watching his work."

KUNG FU SOCCER officially announced that the film will be released in Hong Kong and Macau on August 13th, and yesterday two Hong Kong teaser posters and trailers were released. One of the posters featured the back of "Double 8" Choi Si Bui guarding the goal. The main cast of Zhang Xiaofei, Dilraba Dilmurat, and Lay Zhang Yixing, along with Choi Si Bui, Louis Cheung Kai Chung, MC Jin (Auyeung Ching), Carina Lau Ka Ling, Takeru Satoh, and Jimmy O.Yang (Auyeung Man Sing) all appear in the trailer with Mandarin dialogue but no Cantonese dubbing yet. As for whether KUNG FU SOCCER will be available in Cantonese, the film company has not released any information.

Online reviews for the film have been polarizing. Some online after watching the film in he mainland blasted it, citing that the special effects in the film seemed to be created by "backwater" AI. Yet some also praised the plot as thoughtful and the casting top notch. Reportedly the Hong Kong and Macau release has been delayed in order to avoid direct confrontation with director Christopher Nolan's new film ODYSSEY and the Tom Holland starred SPIDER-MAN: REBORN.

Solely responsible for the Hong Kong poster, Choi Si Bui has been promoting the show on social media for days. She first posted that KUNG FU SOCCER would open in the mainland starting July 11st, and bought a ticket alone to watch the 9 a.m. early show. She described her happiness, she got teary eyed as she was about to enter the theater. 'I haven't seen it yet, so I don't know how it would be. I am so happy to see the earliest show. I tried to recall what I filmed last year. This secret project can finally be released. It wrapped up production last July, and I still haven't calmed down yet. Being able to make a Sing Yeh movie feels like a dream.'

Choi Si Bui uploaded several photos from her daily life during the filming of KUNG FU SOCCER, including receiving guidance from Chow Sing Chi, sitting by the sea eating rice boxes, training at the gym, and filming action scenes that left her covered in scars. Many were on her hands, and her finger injuries requiring stents and her lower back and hind legs needing physical therapy. Choi Si Bui also livestreamed to interact with people online, using both text and images to teach how to say the character name 'Double 8' in Cantonese. She jokingly asked people online, 'Do you understand?'

Currently in mainland China, Chow Sing Chi has been out with a group of actors to thank the audience for several days. At a theater in Chengdu, a Shaw Brothers graduate and the first generation "Kwok Ching" Pai Piao showed his support. Pai Piao stood up in the audience and greeted Chow Sing Chi in Cantonese: "Sing Yeh, how are you!" Chow Sing Chi waved happily and said, "Brother Biao, Brother Biao, how are you! Brother Biao is our elder. Has anyone watched the TV dramas starring him? I was a fan of his back then, yes! Finally, there is someone......who can say I grew up watching his work. I'm so grateful that you appeared here." This drew laughter from the entire audience. Pai Piao highly praised KUNG FU SOCCER, "Every female lead performs very well and gives it her all. This movie is really great, isn't it!' The entire audience responded enthusiastically. Pai Piao acted as the "promotional ambassador," encouraging the audience to attend two or three times.

In Hengzhou yesterday Sing Yeh talked about his lack of expertise in telling a story from a female perspective, so this time he had to give special thanks to the two leads Zhang Xiaofei and Dilraba. He humbly said that he received a lot of advice from them. "They would say, 'Director, girls don't talk like this', or for some action they would say, 'Director you are overthinking it, girls wouldn't be like this'. They have been greatly helpful to me." He also praised Dilraba for having a knack for action and performance. "She actually had very little time to train. Because our production progress is relatively fast, even for highly difficult stunts she would hit the mark very precisely and complete them very well. Every performance actually has been a pleasant surprise. Often I have to ask for another, but actually it is already great. However I feel that she definitely would come up with something even more special."

The "Sing Girls" have been strongly helping with the promotion as well. MERMAID's Kitty Zhang Yuqi booked private screenings to treat her employees to watch KUNG. Sing Yeh's CJ7 (CHEUNG GONG 7 HO) "son" Xu Jiao appeared at the Hengzhou stop of the tour and hid in the audience to give a thoughtful surprise to "Papa".

[2026.07.15] IRON LADY OF THE FILM INDUSTRY SHI NANSUN PASSED AWAY

Shi Nansun lived a glorious life

Tsui Hark got choked up as he bid farewell to his former wife

Brigitte Lin (left) presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Shi Nansun at last year's Hong Kong Film Awards, which now has become a memory

Shi Nansun contributed greatly to the film industry, Jackie Chan called her "Big Sister" out of respect
courtesy of on.cc

Brigitte Lin (left) posts a black and white photo with Shi Nansun to express how much she misses her

Brigitte Lin (left) presented to the Hong Kong Film Awards Lifetime Achievement Award to Shi Nansun last year

Carina Lau (left) posts a black and white photo with her husband Tony Leung Chiu Wai and Shi Nansun in remembrance

Winnie Yu (left) greatly praised Shi Nansun (right) as a the first heroine of Chinese film

Jackie Chan laments that with the passing of Shi Nansun, the film world has lost another legendary figure

Shi Nansun (center) over 20 years ago host the Commercial Radio program ON A CLEAR DAY
courtesy of mingpao.com

The death of the Chinese-language film "Gold Medal Producer" Shi Nansun has written a heavy stroke for the Hong Kong film industry. She firmly stood in the film circle for more than 40 years, produced and planned more than 60 films in her life. She was not only the mainstay of Hong Kong film production, but also an important promoter of Hong Kong films to the world. From the romantic fantasy of A CHINESE GHOST STORY (SIN NUI YAU WON) to the martial arts heroics of the ONCE UPON A TIME IN CHINA (WONG FEI HUNG) film series, then to the cop and robber classic of INFERNAL AFFAIRS (MO GAN DOH), she has laid the foundation of the golden age for Hong Kong film with a unique vision and perseverance. She fought side by side with Tsui Hark, and they were hailed as the "golden couple" in the film industry as they worked together to create countless classics. The heroic contribution of this film industry heroine would always remain in the light and shadow of the screen and become a bright memory of Hong Kong movies.

Shi Nansun passed away on July 13 at 8:51 p.m. at the Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital from multiple organ failure due to bacterial infection. She was 75. Ex-husband Tsui Hark met with the media outside the Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital at 11:30 that night. A teary eyed Tsui Hark revealed that Shi Nansun's health has not been as ideal due to immune system problems. Recently bacterial infection caused serious failure of multiple organs, but she persisted until the last moment of life and in the company of her family peacefully passed away. Tsui Hark said, "She and her family have always been grateful for everyone's concern, support and blessing. She hoped that everyone's parting with her, that kind of sadness and thought, would become a force to accept her farewell. May she rest in peace, her spirit will always be with us." When asked if Shi Nansun had any last wish, Tsui Hark did not answer, got on the vehicle and left the hospital.

Born in 1951, after graduating from Maryknoll College she briefly traveled to South Africa then went to study in the UK and earned a bachelor's degree in computer statistics. She returned to Hong Kong in the 1970s to join the media industry, working in production and administration on TVB, RTHK, CTV and RTV. With her proficiency in multiple languages and her excellent public relations skills, she quickly emerged. From the 1990s to the early 2000s, she helped several companies obtain television business licenses and develop the paid TV business.

In the 1980s the "New Wave" arose, Shi Nansun switched from TV to film, joined the Cinema City and became the only woman among the "Seven Eccentrics of Cinema City". With a keen business vision and decisiveness, she was responsible for capital scheduling, contract negotiation and global distribution and was known as the "housekeeper" in the industry. Under her promotion, Hong Kong-made films successfully entered the Asian, European and American markets and launched the golden age of Hong Kong films. In 1984, she co-founded the "Film Workshop Co., Ltd." with Tsui Hark, who led the creative side while she was responsible for administration, financing, distribution and publicity. The two collaborated closely to create a number of classics.

In the Millennium, she became vice president of Media Asia Films and produced the box office masterpiece INFERNAL AFFAIRS. She then founded Distribution Workshop that was dedicated to training new directors in Asia and promoting the work to the international community. She also served as Chair of the Board of Directors of the Bona Film Group, and produced a number of works such as OVERHEARD 2 (SIT TING FUNG WON 2), THE GREAT MAGICIAN, (TOH JEH), and the DETECTIVE DEE (DIK YUN KIT) film series.

Shi Nansun also appeared in international Film Festivals like Berlin and Cannes on behalf of Chinese-language films, serving as a member of the jury member and president, and has won many awards. In 2017 she became the first female producer to win the Gold Camera Award at the Berlin International Film Festival in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the film industry. She has also won the Udine Far East Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award and the French Art and Literary Officer's Medal. Last year, she and Tsui Hark were awarded the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards for Lifetime Achievement.

The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the HKSAR Government, Ms. Rosanna Law Shuk Pui, mourned the passing of Shi Nansun and extended her deep condolences to her family. Law Shuk Pui said that Shi Nansun dedicated her life to the film and television industry, leaving valuable memories of light and shadow for the people of Hong Kong, and she would be forever missed for her extraordinary contribution to the Hong Kong film and television industry .

From 2007 to 2015, Shi Nansun was appointed by the Government as a member of the Hong Kong Film Development Council. The Cultural, Sports and Tourism Bureau statement praised Ms. Shi for her contribution to the long-term development of the Hong Kong film industry. The statement also said that from 2013 to 2019, Shi Nansun was appointed by the Government as a member of the Hong Kong Tourism Development Council, and she provided valuable advice for the promotion of Hong Kong tourism with her extensive networking and professional planning experience in the international film industry. The statement mentioned that Shi Nansun was invited to serve as a member of the jury members and presidents of major international film festivals over the years, received many local and international awards in recognition of her international vision and excellent marketing ability, and made a significant contribution to the promotion of Hong Kong films to the international film industry.

Many friends in the circle also posted eulogy to mourn Shi Nansun. A close friend of Shi Nansun, Brigitte Lin (Lam Ching Ha) posted on the social platform a black and white life photos of them in the past and wrote, "Reluctant, reluctant, but still have to let go. As a good friend of Shi Nansun, the best reward for her was to pass on the energy of love like her." Jackie Chan shared a photo of the two on social media and wrote, "I was shocked to hear that Ms. Shi Nansun was gone, and the film world lost another legendary figure. Fortunately, no matter when you look back, behind those classic works, everyone would remember her heroics and strength of character. Big Sister, have a safe journey. I salute you, and would always miss you." Carina Lau Ka Ling posted a black-and-white photo with Tony Leung Chiu Wai and Shi Nansun on the Internet. "I am grateful to have met you in this life, and learning countless wisdom from you. You are the most respected representative of female and filmmaker of Tony and I, may you rest in peace in heaven." Donnie Yen Chi Tan expressed, "Nansun, you have burned out all your life for film, and we will meet again in the light and shadow. Only the endless nostalgia will remain." Shu Qi wrote a short tribute with "Have a safe journey."; Zhou Xun posted, "See you later. Love you." Li Bingbing said, "I was shocked to hear the bad news, as your voice and smile remained. I will always miss you! May you have a safe journey..." Song Jia also remembered, "I have the privilege to work with you in the New Talent Award jury of the Shanghai Film Festival. Every morning we got up early to watch the films, I was always a mess but I remember that you were always beautiful, exquisite and decent in front of everyone, as the chair of the jury you were humble and gentle, competent, elegant to the utmost. Sister Nansun, have a safe journey."

Winnie Yu Tsang visited Shi Nansun for several days while she was at the hospital. She posted her photo with Shi Nansun on social platforms and shared a video of her talk about YUKULELE at the Academy of Performing Arts in April. In it Shi Nansun showed her support in the audience. Yu Tsang said on the stage, "I have helped many movies with promotional packaging, I want to thank Ms. Shi Nansun for giving me the opportunity to come in contact with how to market, how to make her originally very success work even better! Nansun, thank you very much! Ms. Shi Nansun is the first heroine of Chinese film."

Mary Jean Reimer (Yung Jing Jing) recalled, "Back then Master Lau (Lau Kar Leung) caught severe pneumonia while making SEVEN SWORDS (CHUT GIM) and needed to immediately return to Hong Kong for treatment. During the process, Shi Nansun was the one who kept in contact with me, kept comforting me so I was able to get over this difficult time. I will miss you always."

Shi Nansun over 20 years hosted the Commercial Radio program ON A CLEAR DAY, Yuen Tsz Kin was the program production assistant. Yesterday on the program he shared with Michelle Lo Mik Suet his time with Shi Nansun. Yuen Tsz Kin described Shi Nansun as a "water that benefits everything without doing any harm", he was able to sense his elder's skills inside. She was gentle and clear with her directions.

Lo Mik Suet has known Shi Nansun for years and said that although she was a "foreign educated girl", she was just as great in Chinese. She seemed to have super powers as she was able to handle any and everything. She visited Shi Nansun at home once and knew that Shi would train her foreign domestic helper to cook international level cuisine. "She was both pretty and talented that people would submit to her. Her friendliness wouldn't make people afraid yet know to yield." Lo Mik Suet said Shi Nansun was very filial. When Mother Shi had dementia and would only be the most alert while playing mahjong, Shi Nansun made a schedule with her family to play mahjong with Mother. She was never absent.

Yik Shu wrote essays about Nansun in her collection. "She (Shi Nansun) is a super special effect silver screen color epic that takes years to make with heart and blood", "Anything ordinary or monotonous through her narration would immediately appear in front of your eyes vividly." Some said that Shi Nansun was whom Yik Shu based her female protagonist Chiang Nan Suen in LAST ROMANCE (LAU GUM SHUI YUET) on.

Shi Nansun's dedication was even more admirable. She already signed a consent form to donate organs for medical research. She devoted her life to the film and television industry, and once said, "Selfless contribution, without any complaints, any doubt, doing one thing well for a lifetime, I think everyone should reflect on this."

Shi Nansun's "best partner" on the road of life had to be the director Tsui Hark. In 1977 Shi Nansun met Tsui Hark at Commercial Television. During her interview she recalled that Tsui Hark was extremely thin when they first met. She said bluntly, "He's like a Vietnamese refugee." Known each other for half a century, this Hong Kong film industry "golden couple" self-organized formed the Film Workshop, made A BETTER TOMORROW (YING HUNG BOON SIK), A CHINESE GHOST STORY (SIN NUI YAU WON), the ONCE UPON A TIME IN CHINA (WONG FEI HUNG) film series, THE SWORDSMAN II (SIU NGO GONG WU II DONG FONG BUT BAI) and other classics. In 1996 the two married and did not have any children. Shi Nansun could not have been more attentive to Tsui Hark, privately even calling him "Old Master". Unfortunately this marriage that was the envy of many lasted only 18 years. Tsui Hark once publicly praised Shi Nansun as "always the best woman". Later Tsui Hark was working in the mainland long tern and geography kept the couple apart. In 2011 Tsui Hark was said to have hooked up with a female assistant 30 years his junior and in 2014 Shi Nansun finally admitted that she and Tsui Hark were divorced. She stressed that she did not have any ill word toward Tsui Hark, only said that "What happened between two people have nothing to do with the third party". Despite that, the two were always the best partner in their careers. After the divorce, Shi Nansun still served as a producer for her ex- husband's DETECTIVE DEE (DIK YUN KIT) and showed a deep relationship of professional collaboration.

Tsui Hark once said, "Of course (Shi Nansun) is a person with high administrative ability. Without her, you will feel empty." He also said that she let him see many possibilities in life. Shi Nansun said, "I really learned a lot from one person -- my ex-husband Director Tsui Hark."

Over the years Shi Nansun continued to search for new faces with potential in the film industry and has made stars such as Brigitte Lin (Lam Ching Ha), Maggie Cheung Man Yuk and Leslie Cheung Kwok Wing to the world. When Cheung Man Yuk was still working as a sales clerk in the children's clothing department of a department store, director Yonfan discovered her and recommended her. Shi Nansun recalled, "I still remember the first time she came to see me. With her rabbit buckteeth, cheerful character, not a typical beauty but has quite the aura." Shi Nansun strongly recommended her to director Dean Shek Tin, who was preparing to make the film CHASING GIRLS (JUI NUI JAI). Yet at the time Shek Tin did not think she was pretty enough and turned her down. Although Shi Nansun was angry, she was helpless. Later Cheung Man Yuk said that she wanted to participate in the Miss Hong Kong beauty pageant, Shi Nansun immediately supported and encouraged her. "Go quickly, this is a shortcut to fame." Sure enough, she was the Miss Hong Kong first runner-up. The directors finally woke up like they were dreaming, and chased Shi Nansun to find Cheung Man Yuk for films.

The late superstar Cheung Kwok Wing also regarded Shi Nansun as "Sister." Raymond Wong Pak Ming once revealed that when Cheung Kwok Wing recommended himself for A BETTTER TOMRROW but Tsui Hark rejected him. He immediately turned to Shi Nansun, and finally successfully won the classic role of "Sung Chi Kit". This respect not only stayed in words, but also showed in action -- in 1994 Cheung Kwok Wing gave the commemorative red high heels to Shi Nansun after the concert at the Hong Kong Coliseum in Hung Hom in 1994. To be able to receive such a cherished gift from Cheung Kwok Wing, it showed the important position of Shi Nansun in his heart. She only wore the gift once and then properly added it to her collection.

In addition, when Tsui Hark was preparing the film A CHINESE GHOST STORY he intended for Japanese star Akina Nakamori to play the lead role of "Lip Siu Sin". However some said that his invitation was rejected repeatedly and the casting was stuck in the muck. At the time rising star Joey Wong Cho Yin offered her services. At first Shi Nansun felt that her sunny disposition was in contrast of the female ghost image and declined her request for an audition, but Wong Cho Yin did not give up and continued to fight for the chance to audition. Finally she surprised the entire team and became an overnight success with the role. She sincerely thanked Shi Nansun.

Shi Nansun and Brigitte Lin (Lam Ching Ha) met in the 1980s, she contributed to Lam Ching Ha's development from Taiwan to Hong Kong to complete the role transformation. Later they collaborated on the filming of the martial arts film ZU: WARRIORS FROM THE MAGIC MOUNTAIN (SHOOK SHAN) and THE SWORDSMAN II (SIU NGO GONG WU II DONG FONG BUT BAI), which made them close friends who supported each other for more than half a century. They presented lifetime achievement awards to each other at film festivals.

Lam Ching Ha in her book "In Front of and Behind the Mirror" detailed her relationship with Shi Nansun. Her avant-garde character and independent image impressed her, as she revealed her side. "People who don't know Shi Nansun perhaps would feel that she is unattainable, difficult to get close to. If you enter into her inner world, you would not be able to imagine her inner tenderness and feelings -- which is exactly the opposite as her cool appearance. She has a set of unique martial arts, as long as she is in the mood she would imitate the broadcasting accent of the German, Singapore, India, the mainland and the Hong Kong flight attendants in English. Coupled with the usual action and expression of various countries, the performance is exquisite. Every time she would attract table and chair slapping laughter, and for decades it has been tried and true. This is her sacred scroll."

"Shi Nansun cared for the society and sympathized with the disadvantaged groups, participated in many public welfare activities, and also served as vice chair of the (Josephine) Siao Fong Fong founded End Child Sexual Abuse Foundation. It is easy to like a friend, respect a good friend is not very common. With Nansun it is beyond respect from me, especial when I heard that she signed the consent form and decided to donate her organs for medical research, and then turned into soil to nourish the growth of flowers and trees. She dedicated her love to Tsui Hark, her intelligence to the film industry and the general public, and would not hesitate to dedicate her body to the earth and the universe in the future."

Tsui Hark in 1980 went to the U.S. to invite Lam Ching Ha to return to Hong Kong to make ZU. When Lam Ching Ha first arrived in Hong Kong she was a stranger in a strange land, and Shi Nansun volunteered to help her negotiate many film contracts. Lam Ching Ha wrote a letter with a check to thank her. Shi Nansun only accepted the letter, returned the check and stated that she did not ask for anything in return for helping a friend. Lam Ching Ha remembered these words for over 40 years. Later when Lam Ching Ha wed Ying Lee Yuen, their witnesses were Shi Nansun and Tsui Hark.

[2026.07.15] FOR THE WEEK STARTING SATURDAY, JULY 11 2026

For the week starting Saturday, July 11 2026 (Week 28)

VIUTV CHILL CLUB CHART

  5 WAITING FOR YOU BY THE STAIRS
  Can : Lau Tai Dun Nei
  Paul Au Tsz Lam

https://youtu.be/M0WmPna3ZdUx

  4 LOVING U LEAVING U
  Can : Si Yut Luen Oi
  Frankie Chan Sui Fai

https://youtu.be/QISPhrAz9hI

  3 I WHAT MAKES A MAN
  Can : Nam Yun Jum Hor Yi
  MC Cheung Tin Fu

https://youtu.be/g1GBE8eeNyM

  2 C FOR CARINA
  Can : Yeung Lo
  CARINA Li Hei Tung

https://youtu.be/ulpNfAjWRuU

  1 DARK SIDE OF THE MOON
  Can : Yuet Leung Doi Biu Ngor
  moon tang

https://youtu.be/OFCMUwqw8Qo

[2026.07.15] VETERAN FILMMAKER SHI NANSUN PASSED AWAY AT 75

Tsui Hark (circle) expresses that Shi Nansun passed away peacefully in the company of her family and friends

Shi Nansun, Raymond Wong, Eric Tsang, Karl Maka, Dean Shek and Teddy Robin Kwan form the Cinema City Seven Eccentrics
courtesy of mingpao.com

Veteran filmmaker Shi Nansun passed away last night at Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital at the age of 75. Her ex-husband Tsui Hark, her family and friends were by her bedside when she passed. "The Film Workshop" issued a statement: "Our most respected Ms. Shi Nansun has been in poor health since 2022 due to immune system issues. In recent months, due to bacterial infections that led to multiple organ failure, she peacefully passed away at 8:51 p.m. on Monday, July 13th, 2026, at the age of 75. Her beloved family and family were by her side, accompanying her through the final chapter of her life. Information regarding the memorial and farewell service will be announced later."

Before leaving the hospital at around 11 p.m. last night, Tsui Hark as the representative spoke to the media. He mentioned that Shi Nansun's immune system began to have problems in 2022 and described her as fighting the illness with tenacious vitality. "Recently Shi Nansun's immune system has severely declined. The virus has severely infected her, causing many organ failures. She held on until the very last moment, peacefully passing away surrounded by her friends and family, bidding farewell to everyone. Shi Nansun and her family have always been grateful for everyone's attention, support, and blessings. She hoped that everyone would turn the farewell, sadness, and longing for her into a source of strength and warmth to accept her farewell, wishing her peace and that her spirit will always be with us." Did Shi Nansun have any last words? Tsui Hark did not respond, got into the car and left.

Last week, the news broke that Shi Nansun was seriously ill and hospitalized. For days the media had been waiting outside the hospital, as Tsui Hark, Brigitte Lin, Sylvia Chang, and Winnie Yu Tsang visiting her. At the time Tsui Hark told the media that he hoped everyone would respect Shi Nansun and give her time and space to rest. Last year Shi Nansun and Tsui Hark both received the Hong Kong Film Awards for Lifetime Achievement, presented by their friend of over 40 years Brigitte Lin. At that time Shi Nansun was energetic and in excellent condition. A year later when Shi Nansun attended Linda Kuk's funeral in May, she looked thin and somewhat pale. She walked slowly with the support of a cane and help from others.

In her early years Shi Nansun worked for Commercial Television and Rediffusion Television. In the early 1980s she entered the film industry and was active in the film industry for over 40 years. In 198, she became the executive director of Cinema City Film Company, forming the 'Cinema City Seven Eccentrics' alongside Karl Maka, Dean Shek Tin, Raymond Wong Pak Ming, Tsui Hark, Eric Tsang Chi Wai, and Teddy Robin Kwan. Shi Nansun excelled in administration, planning, distribution, public relations, and marketing, known for her decisive approach and unique vision; in 1984, she co-founded the Film Workshop with Tsui Hark, producing countless classic films such as 'A BETTER TOMORROW', 'PEKING OPERA BLUES', 'A CHINESE GHOST STORY', 'ONCE UPON A TIME IN CHINA', and 'THE SWORDSMAN II'. Shi Nansun also brought Hong Kong cinema to the international stage, winning multiple international awards to highlight her achievements. She and Tsui Hark were known as the "golden couple" of the film industry. They married in 1996, a relationship that lasted 18 years. After their divorce, they maintained a friendly relationship.

[2026.07.13] SEAN LAU AND NEW ACTORS INSPIRE EACH OTHER IN THEIR NEW EMPEROR MOTION PICTURE

Catherine Chau, Sean Lau and Elizabeth Tang star in the new film FOOK SAU DIK YUN, developing a love triangle

Valerie Cheung, Carina Li, and Hazel Lam play secondary school students
courtesy of mingpao.com

Adapted from the novel "MAN INSIDE THE NET", the new film FOOK SAU DIK YUN (MAN OF VENGEANCE) shot yesterday at a karaoke box, director Herman Yau Lai To and actors Sean Lau Ching Wan, Elizabeth Tang To, Catherine Chau Ka Yee attended. The Emperor boss Albert Yeung Sau Sing came to visit the set. Working for the first time with the Best Actor Lau Ching Wan, this year's Hong Kong Film Awards Best New Performer winner Tang To would play his "employer". She said that she was not nervous during rehearsing with Ching Wan. Instead she felt a sense of peace of mind. Ching Wan said that he did not particularly accommodate the new actors during his performance, thinking that the new actors were very smart. The most important thing was to inspire and communicate with each other.

Director Yau Lai To, actor Lau Ching Wan, Tang To, Chau Ka Yee, Valerie Cheung Sum Yi, Carina Li Hei Tung, Arvin Tsang Ngo Fei, Sammy Sum Chun Him, Kenneth Lai Chun and Polly Lau Yuek Bo participated in the filming of the Emperor Motion Picture FOOK SAU DIK YUN yesterday. In the film Lau Ching Wan, Tang To and Chau Ka Yee would develop a relationship triangle in the film.

Lau Ching Wan wore a trench coat and looked to be much thinner than before. He pointed out that his weight did not have any drastic swing, it was just the feeling of new look. In this film he played a private investigator Tang To employed to investigate incidents of bullying online and on campus. Recently winning the Hong Kong Film Awards for Best New Performer with GIRLFRIENDS (NUI HAI BUT PING FAN), Tang To worked with the Best Actor Lau Ching Wan for the first time and already played his "employer". Could she casually send Ching Wan on assignment at will? Tang To smiled shyly and said, "We assign each other, but I myself feel nervous for the first few days of production, but I am not nervous when I see him. I have a sense of peace of mind!"

Tang To won an award with her first film, and very soon was able to work with the Best Actor. She admitted that the role of the student's sister was a big challenge, so she had also a little anxiety and pressure. Ching Wan smiled and said that he and Tang To only met two days ago. The day before they just shot some of the scenes together. He has not yet commented on this "Best New Performer", but since the director chose her there should be no problem. He said, "She won an award with her first film. I had to make dozens of films before I was nominated!"

Ching Wan revealed that this time he no longer needed to play a detective. The role was a very materialistic, money before relationship kind of person, finally from helping to investigate the incident his personal emotions was led out. Would comedic element be added? Lau Ching Wan said, "I wouldn't deliberately try to be funny. I would follow what the director says, if necessary I would add a little humor." His and Tang To's personalities were tough and unyielding, but it would not be like the past masculine films he made. This time he would face the performance of new actors as students, he said that he did not particularly accommodate everyone, because he felt that the new actors were very smart, reacting quickly and sensibly. "So I didn't accommodate everyone. We inspire each other, mutual interaction is the most important." He would welcome everyone to chat and gladly share his experience. Tang To said that before she was in the business she ran into Lau Ching Wan on the street. Was Tang To very scared to face Best Actor Lau Ching Wan? Before Tang To was able to answer, Ching Wan already answered for her, "Hong Kong has many Best Actors, I wouldn't deliberately ask everyone for opinions, I have no opinion. I communicate through the director. Of course, we would also chat, this way we could inspire each other."

In addition, referring to Ching Wan and his wife Amy Kwok Oi Ming's recent trip to the mainland, people online praised his wife's radiant beauty. Ching Wan smiled and said, "The camera lens is the beautiful one, and the sun is shining." Did he not think his wife was so beautiful that she was shining? He smiled and said, "I am not at liberty to talk, I don't have to pay the electricity bill then!" As for the first personal concert of his friend Louis Koo Tin Lok, would he be a guest on stage? Ching Wan said that he would not. Because he did not know how to speak or sing, he did not want to mess up other people's business.

Chau Ka Yee in the film would play a teacher. She said that her role would mainly shoot with the students, so she would not have many scenes with Ching Wan and she felt sorry about that. Yet when she was not in a scene, she would stay on the set to learn from Ching Wan. For her birthday on the 23rd of this month, she would fly to Malaysia to attend a film festival on the same day. She said that she felt very happy to spend her birthday at work.

Sum Chun Hin in the film would play an arrogant lawyer and have scenes with Lau Ching Wan. He remembered that he was a special contract actor when he worked with Lau Ching Wan on POKER KING, but at that time he was just Pedestrian A who was standing behind Ching Wan and Koo Tin Lok.

Recently a "car camera" video was circulated on the Internet, and in it seemingly was a dispute between Lui Fong and the driver. Having been a rideshare driver, Sum Chun Hin also forwarded the relevant news on the Internet. He said that he mainly wanted everyone to notice that if something happened, no matter which party was right and wrong, it was not appropriate to release the film for a "public trial"; which was equivalent to revenge. This behavior would affect young people, let them mistakenly think that if they could not win an "argument", they could put the video on the Internet to let others "judge" to avenge themselves. "This way is very bad though. No wonder who is right or wrong, just let it go after the argument is over."

Speaking of his time as a driver, he believed that personal attitude was very important. Any and all parties could be a little more tolerant. When he was a driver was he gentle with his passengers? He joked that don't judge him just by his looks, actually he was very gentle at any time. When asked if he had a very unreasonable passenger, he said, "I believe in the law of attraction. What kind of attitude you have will attract what kind of people to you." He said that he would often encounter difficult guests, so he had to try to keep his mood as good as possible. Everything could be resolved.

Hazel Lam Hei Tung earlier was caught with Gareth.T (Tong Ling Shan) on the street and was thus linked in rumors. Yesterday she worked on the film FOOK SAU DIK YUN and was asked about her date. She avoided the topic, only said that she has known Tong Ling Shan for awhile and thought he was humorous. Was he her ideal type? Hazel pointed out that she never had a specific ideal type. As for future development opportunities, she said that she did not know because she has not think about it seriously. Now she would spend all her time on the script. Tong Ling Shan would perform at the Hong Kong Coliseum. She revealed that she has congratulated to him, but has not been invited to enjoy the performance. It would not take place until six months later anyway, and she has not made any plan to go to support the show.

Regarding the film FOOK SAU DIK YUN, Hazel and VIVA members Valerie Cheung Saum Yi (ValC) and Carina Li Hei Tung all would play secondary school students, they did not feel anything wrong with that. ValC said that after dyeing her hair back to black, everyone said that she became younger; as for each person wearing school uniforms for the performance, she joked that she felt like a gifted student. Elder Lau Ching Wan revealed that he also wanted to interact with young actors, among them only ValC had scenes with Ching Wan. Yet on the day of the costume fitting, they also greeted Ching Wan. At work they had the opportunity to stand on the sideline and learn. Hazel also pointed out that Ching Wan's role was very mysterious, so he really wanted to see how he performed on the set. Carina laughed and said that she did not dare to ask her elders for acting tips because she was afraid that her questions would be too dumb. ValC and Carina became actors, but the two said the girl group Viva woiuld continue to have work. They would rather sacrifice sleep time to be able to sing and make films at the same time.

[2026.07.12] KUNG FU SOCCER OPENS IN THE MAINLAND TO 230 MILLION RMB BOX OFFICE BUT POLARIZED REVIEWS

Stephen Chow thanks the audience for their support of KUNG FU SOCCER

Dilraba posts the good news of the 200 million RMB opening box office for KUNG FU SOCCER

Stephen Chow praises Dilraba's acting

Zhang Xiaofei in the film plays Team Emei captain Shuangshuang
courtesy of mingpao.com

As the team doctor Sisley Choi fills in an emergency in goal

KUNG FU SOCCER has a strong cast
courtesy of mingpao.com

The Stephen Chow Sing Chi written and directed new film KUNG FU SOCCER (GONG FU NUI JOOK) yesterday opened big in the mainland, as of 7 PM last night it exceeded 200 million MB (around HK$ 230 million). Chow Sing Chi's film release after many years has been long anticipated, but the outside reviews of KUNG FU SOCCER have been polarized. Some criticized that the idea was still from over 20 years ago, the dialogue old fashioned, special effects could not compare to his previous film KUNG FU HUSTLE (GONG FU) and internet films, and the term "hard to watch" once landed on hot search; but many online also supported the film as entertaining, praised it as Chow Sing Chi's unique style, and its Maoyan platform rating was 9.4. Chow Sing Chi yesterday thanked the audience with the cast in Tianjin. Facing the passionate audience, he sentimentally said that he worried about not doing a good enough job and failing to live up to everyone's support. He also said that he has always believed that Chinese kung fu was the best in the world, thus Team Emei in this film would definitely blow up the entire world.

The Chow Sing Chi film KUNG FU SOCCER from preparation to production has been kept confidential, only after the release date was confirmed the cast as announced. Starring Zhang Xiaofei, Dilraba and Lay Zhang Yixing, with special performance from Lau Ka Ling and Japanese star Takeru Satoh, the film also included Sisley Choi Si Bui, Louis Cheung Kai Chung, MC Jin (Auyeung Ching), former Chinese women's soccer team player Zhao Lina and Japanese dane group Avantgardey. In the story Team Emei women's soccer team fused traditional kung fu into modern soccer to compete in the women's soccer "Ultimate Invincible Cup", overcame bias and strikes against them to win the championship. The film production cost reached 380 million RMB (around HK$ 430 million); yesterday its opening box office as of 7 PM last night surpassed 200 million RMB, over 230,000 shows were scheduled with over 5.79 million viewers.

KUNG FU SOCCER was released after long anticipation and immediately triggered passionate online discussion. The reviews fell between extreme responses like "laughing from the beginning to the end" and "like lying on a bed of nails". The term "hard to watch" once reached the second most searched online. Many online commented that KUNG FU SOCCER's story was old fashioned, the comedy awkward. A lot of the entire film used green screen production computer special effects, which could not compare to KUNG FU HUSTLE (GONG FU) over 20 years ago and internet movies. Some even pointed out that the acting was superfluous, and the performance came on too strong and hard. However some supported it as entertaining, saying "Chow Sing Chi is still Chow Sing Chi" and displaying his unique nonsensical comedy style. "Chow Sing Chi's comedy would never just be absurd comedy, after explanation you would see a lot of satire and metaphors in its designs."

Away from the public eye for a long time, Chow Sing Chi yesterday along with KUNG FU SOCCER's actors Zhang Xiaofei, Dilraba, Xue Ye, Aimi and Woo Yu On thanked the auidnece in Tianjin. Facing the passionate audience, he thanked them for their support and sentimentally said, "I feel a little ashamed, sometimes I would always feel I haven't done good enough, very afraid of failing to live up to everyone's support." Chow Sing Chi talked about Chinese kung fu. "Thank you Chinese kung fu is the best in the world, this has always been my belief. So in my heart, I feel Team Emei would certainly blow up the entire world." The host told him to turn his back to the audience and then said, "We would always stand behind you." Chow Sing Chi was greatly touched.

Dilraba was said to have gained 8 catty (around 4.9 kilograms) for KUNG FU SOCCER. She clarified that she did not. "Earlier I saw a report that said 16 catty (around 9.76 kilograms). I was afraid that after two days it would become 32 catty (20 kilograms). I didn't gain weight, only in order to increase coordination between limbs, I did muscle gaining personal fitness training. Another internet rumor that her ankles were swollen, which was also false. Because if they were swollen they would not be good for the movie." Dilraba said that the team was very professional, the director's protection of the actors was very professional and appropriate. Chow Sing Chi revealed that Dilraba got tanned during the shoot. "She contributed. Her acting is truly good. In addition as a great beauty, being tanned is a very serious matter." Dilraba replied, "Great beauties still look good with a tan." As for when KUNG FU SOCCER would open in Hong Kong, so far no announcement has been made.

Chow Sing Chi's KUNG FU SOCCER opened in the mainland yesterday, while its Hong Kong release date awaited announcements. One of the reporters watched the film in Shenzhen yesterday and the following contains spoilers.

KUNG FU SOCCER's story revolved around passion, pursuit of dreams, love a friends, but with the "Hong Kong style nonsense" that Hong Kong viewers have been looking forward to. Every female character was pretty, none would made ugly. The film also saluted past films several times, and included 3 major Easter eggs to provide "Sing fans" a little comfort.

Aside from carrying Chow Sing Chi's golden label and starring Zhang Xiaofei, Dilraba and Zhang Yixing, KUNG FU SOCCER also included Carina Lau Ka Ling, Louis Cheung Kai Chung, Jimmy O Yang (Au Yeung Man Sing), MC Jin (Auyeung Ching), Japanese star Takeru Satoh and Japanese dance group Avantgarde. The cast line up was strong, which also meant that the stars had limited screen time. Lau Ka Ling played the Team Emei coach, almost every time she appeared she was playing mahjong and did not do much. In the film she was considered a spiritual leader. Cheung Kai Chung played an official in one of the games but did not have any eye catching performance; Jimmy O. Yang as a match staff member and MC Jin as the opening ceremony host could be said to be "happy to be there".

Avantgarde played the warm up guests of the finales, did not have much screen time. Takeru Satoh played the rival team coach and had many lines, mainly he sold his handsome look. Lead actresses Zhang Xiaofei and Dilraba in order to play the perfect women's soccer spirit accepted intense training. They played convincingly in the film and met their requirement in both action and acting. Zhang Yixing's performance was a surprise. Completely dropping his "idol baggage", he demonstrated his funny side. Aside from the plaza dancing, his face was swollen from Zhang Xiaofei's Iron Sand Palm and he drooled as he spoke. It became the scene with the most laughter in the entire film. New actor Xue Ye was said to be the new generation "Sing Girl" after MERMAID's Jelly Lin Yun 8 years ago. Her character used her real name and was a light on her feet reserved player. With the former child star Aimi and the goalkeeper Ni Hao, youth ruled the day.

The trio with the mainland actor responsible for comedy Angel Woo Yu On and Hong Kong representative Sisley Choi Si Bui all had their names under the "special introduction" credit. Originally Choi Si Bui was only arranged to play the team doctor with sunglasses. She would only frequently hit the wrong person and did not have the chance to play. Later she was named the second reserve goalkeeper and had to play at a critical moment. The scene in which she caught the opponent's shot with one hand was very eye catching. Seeming she was no lower in position than Xue Ye in the heart of Chow Sing Chi.

KUNG FU SOCCER did not add Chow Sing Chi's "Hong Kong style nonsense", which perhaps would disappoint some viewers. However with special effects and AI technology maturing, the soccer scenes were even more exciting and intense than SHAOLIN SOCCER and were able to bring about special technique scenes like the animation CAPTAIN TSUBASA. Chow Sing Chi's film's unique style could not be hard to see from watching the movie in detail: the film opened with the BUDDHA'S PALM music, the two female leads quoting Bruce Lee, "Be Water, My Friend", the scene in which the fat child actor was made fun of, the use of Sally Yeh's BAFFLED as background music, all of which have appeared in his previous films. In addition "Team Emei"'s jersey in the finals were the same as "Team Shaolin".

3 major Easter eggs provided surprises to "Sing fans". The KING OF COMEDY "first love" scum of the century who forced "Lau Piu Piu" Cecilia Cheung Pak Chi into prostitution, Steven Fung Min Hung with the same look reprised this classic scene with Angel Woo Yu On. Chow Sing Chi was suspected of personally performing two more scenes with his back to the camera. First he appeared as KING OF COMEDY's Wan Tin Sau, holding the classic book AN ACTOR PREPARES to teach the players acting; near the end of the film Fourth Brother "Ghost Hand" Chan Kwok Kwan, Sixth Brother Lam Tsz Chung and Fifth Brother Chow Sing Chi from SHAOLIN SOCCER appeared in the audience with their back to the camera. Chan Kwok Kwan praised "Team Emei", "They have real skills." Lam Tsz Chung immediately turned to the side and asked Chow Sing Chi, who was wearing the sneakers "Ah Mui" Vicki Zhao Wei mended for him. "Brother, what do you think?" Chow Sing Chi answered, "Then let's play them once."

[2026.07.11] TSUI HARK VISITS SHI NANSUN AGAIN AT THE HOSPITAL: "UNDER OBSERVATION, NEEDS SOME TIME."

When Tsui Hark leaves the hospital, he reveals Shi Nansun's latest condition to the media

Shi Nansun is still accepting treatment at the hospital
courtesy of mingpao.com

Veteran filmmaker Shi Nansun has recently been reported to be seriously ill and is currently receiving treatment in the hospital. Several friends from the industry visited him but did not disclose Shi Nansun's condition. The day before yesterday Shi Nansun's ex-husband Tsui Hark, Sylvia Chang, and someone suspected to be Brigitte Lin visited her in the hospital. At that time, Tsui Hark told the media that he hoped to respect Ms. Shi and give her time and space to rest.

Yesterday Tsui Hark visited the hospital again and left around 1 p.m. Wearing a baseball cap and mask, Tsui Hark looked exhausted but still paused briefly to accept media interviews. He revealed the latest updates on his ex-wife. When asked if Shi Nansun's condition was okay, he immediately nodded and said, "She is still under observation!" When asked if the situation was ideal, he said, "It will take some time." Then he left.