Friday, July 31, 2009

[2009.08.01] LOUIS KOO IS THE MASKED GOD OF GAMBLERS?

courtesy of takungpao.com

The film POKER KING yesterday shot in Macau Star World Hotel and Casino. Actors included Louis Koo Tin Lok, Lau Ching Wan, Jo Kuk Cho Lam. The hotel loaned a new casino area for the shoot. Goo Jai two nights ago began the shoot early in the morning. He pointed out that lately he has been constantly working overnight. Sometimes he would work over ten hours a day. Yesterday he was coughing a little. Goo Jai said that he had a sore throat because he constantly flew around and did not have time to rest. He said that although working all night was tough, it was better than working outside. In the film he played a poker expert. Would he imitate God Of Gamblers' look? He expressed in the past God of Gamblers would slick his hair back and wear a long coat, but now he would wear a hat and a medical mask.

Lau Ching Wan did not enjoy gambling. Even when he was not in a scene he would not try his luck. Earlier his wife came to visit the set and he took her around to sight see. Kuk Cho Lam and Ching Wan in the film had an awkward relationship, for now they still do not have any intimate scene. She joked perhaps under the table she would ask the director to add a little.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

[2009.07.31] SEVEN LITTLE FORTUNES 50TH ANNIVERSARY: FEW CAN RELATE, BEIJING OPERA FUTURE LOOKED MEEK

Eileen Chang once wrote, "Beijing Opera is very complex. Even the art of a few costumes is enough for you to study for a lifetime." No wonder Jackie Chan frankly states that Beijing Opera has no future in Hong Kong.

Speaking of how to spread the potential of Beijing Opera from Master Yu Jim Yuen, Jackie Chan helplessly says, "Beijing Opera used to be popular because at the time people didn't have much entertainment. Now with so many choices, who would watch Beijing Opera? Beijing Opera could sing 'How are you' for full fifteen minutes. Walking from backstage to the stage could take half a hour. Who today has the patience to watch you?"

Times Changed, Stifle National Treasure

Jackie Chan is not pouring cold water on Beijing Opera. When Beijing Opera fell to this cultural desert of Hong Kong, few could relate to it. Once assisted with the Hong Kong Beijing Opera Club Bau Yau Dip points out, Beijing Opera's development in Hong Kong faces two difficulties. "Beijing Opera, when performed poor, loses its flavor. When you listen you listen to that flavor. On stage a melody can take half a day. One note can be sung for three minutes. Outsiders who don't understand would scratch their head open!"

In today's fast food culture, the vision of Beijing Opera development seems too extravagant. Jackie Chan says, "Honestly, few truly has the vision. Times changed, no one in Hong Kong watches Beijing Opera. In the Mainland only people in their 40s or 50s would. Younger generation wouldn't be interested in learning Beijing Opera, it's too tough! After they complete their study they have no future either. I feel Beijing Opera has to change, it can't be this way for several decades."

Jackie Chan recalls a personal experience and cites that for Beijing Opera to develop it has to change. He says, "Beijing Opera background is helpful to action films but depends on the situation. Ten years ago when I made SHANGHAI NOON, I invited a Shanghai wushu team to make the movie in the U.S. They played Indians in below zero temperature and were very professional, but their gestures and concerns were still the stage type. No Indian would look at people like the veteran operas with the eyes wide open! Thus I say you can't take the Beijing Opera ways and force them into film in the same manner."

Cultivate Talent, Bloom And Blossom

Jackie Chan even cites himself as an example as he proudly says, "Like me, after completing my apprenticeship I went to study boxing, Hapkido, Taekwondo, karate, Wing Chun; speaking of which, I am somewhat lucky that back the school wasn't an authentic drama school so I got to learn Northern style, Southern style, even English. These basics were very helpful in my future development. If you ask me do I want to open a school, I dare to say that everyone who has followed Yu Jim Yuen would, but over the years, Jackie Chan stuntman association and Sammo Hung stuntman association both have cultivated talent. Take a look at today's film industry, we trained many of its people!" (39)

[2009.07.31] NICK CHEUNG PLAYS FOR BEST ACTOR SALARY

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The Wong Jing directed WONG GOK GAM YUK (MONGKOK PRISON) yesterday held a production start ceremony in Causeway Bay. Actors Nick Cheung Ka Fai, Monica Mok Siu Kei, Natalie Meng Yao, Liu Kai Chi and others attended. Paw Hee Ching who plays Ka Fai's mother did not attend. Ka Fai expressed that in the film he went to prison for 30 years in his youth for a crime that he did not commit. After release he had a personality split. Meng Yao plays a mentally deficient farm girl and Mok Siu Kei plays her sister.

Cheung Ka Fai yesterday wore a fake beard, tattoo and gold chain in a mobster look. He expressed that earlier he went to Portland Street and Shanghai Street to study the tattoo thugs' speech and mannerism for his own creative inspiration. Was he paid Best Actor salary this time? He said, "It's reasonable." Wong Jing pointed out that this time Ka Fai played from the beginning to the end as his role was very important. Did Wong Jing feel it would be an award winning film for Ka Fai? He said, "I too hope Ka Fai will have a chance." Earlier Shing Fui On reportedly was hospitalized for cancer. Wong Jing expressed that he just returned to Hong Kong and was not too certain. He only knew that he had some health issue. Earlier Ka Fai was caught visiting the hospital. At first he only said, "I visited a friend, but that friend doesn't want to say too much. He doesn't want any speculation." After reporters pressed him further he revealed that he actually visited Shing Fui On. "Because he doesn't want too much coverage. As a visitor I don't want to say too much either. I only wish he would properly rest. Last time I saw him he was very mischievous, his spirit appears to be OK. He is very tough." When asked whether Big Silly is much thinner, Wong Jing cut in, "Don't talk about that too much."

Ka Fai expressed that even though he was busy with making movies he still took time to be with his daughter, but as she grew up she would constantly behaved like a spoilt child. He joked that sometimes he would want to rip her arm off. Wong Jing said, "Actually Ka Fai really loves his daughter. Earlier when we discussed the script he asked me to go to his house. He spent time with his daughter while discussing. Sometimes he would take her to work with him." Ka Fai revealed that in the film he would have some intimate scenes with Mok Siu Kei, but they would not be anything excessive. Meng Yao yesterday looked much slimmer. She said, "In the film I play a farm girl with only the intelligence of a 6 to 8 year old child. All of my lines are in Mandarin. However I lost over ten pounds for the character because I have to play a very innocent, poor and naive feeling." She said that on camera she would try to wear little to no make up, but friends said that she was decent without make up. Would she have any sexy scene? She said, "The sunbathing on the beach scene is pretty sexy, but the hardest scene is urinating on the streets."

Mok Siu Kei expressed that earlier she and Ka Fai already worked on a bed scene. She praised Ka Fai as a gentleman and would teach her how to perform so she would be at ease. She said, "Earlier I shot a seductive scene in tube top and hot pants on the streets of Mongkok. Many people were on the streets and took pictures with their phones. Of course I wasn't at ease because it was very daring. Next time I wouldn't dare to go there."

[2009.07.31] ACCIDENT IS SELECTED FOR VENICE FILM FESTIVAL

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The Media Asia invested, Milky Way Image produced, Soi Cheang Po Shui directed and Johnnie To Kei Fung produced film ACCDIENT (YI OI) is selected for competition at this year's Venice Film Festival. Louis Koo Tin Lok and Richie Jen (Yam Yin Chai) star. To Kei Fung praises both actors' performance as outstanding. Goo Jai is currently working on a movie in Macau and is very happy to receive the news. He points out that this film took a long time to make so the selection was worth the effort. He would like to be able to attend the film festival. As for To Kei Fung's praise for his and Siu Chai's performance, Goo Jai says, "Really? I am confident but will have to see the jury taste." Siu Chai points out that this film to him is a challenge as he uses an interpretation that he has never tried before. He says that he was very involved in the shoot but it was very tough. Cheang Po Shui expressed joy over the selection and thanked boss Peter Lam Kin Ngok. He never attended a large scale film festival so he was very glad to have a chance. Because the film took almost a year of hard work, he was very pleased with the selection.

[2009.07.31] SPOILER: LOUIS KOO ACHES FROM "BENDING"

POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT! Continue at your own risk...


For photo please click
here. Courtesy of takungpao.com

Lau Ching Wan, Louis Koo Tin Lok and Daniel Wu (Ng Yin Cho) in OVERHEARD (SIT TING FUNG WON) not only had an acting duel on screen but also risked their lives in chase scenes. Each suffered during the shoot.

To coordinate with a truck chase injury scene, Goo Jai suffered the pain of "bending". The memory was still fresh on his mind. "In this scene after Ching Wan, Daniel and I accidentally overheard a financial market scandal, due to greed I invested all of my life saving and even borrowed money, got swept into the financial market storm and even became the target of a hit. Finally even my family suffered. Because my right arm and leg were broken, I had to act with both limps bent. The feeling of being 'bent' was hard to take. I was aching a little. I thought it would be no different than a fight scene, actually sometimes when you are acting in a bed it is not necessarily a good thing."

Lau Ching Wan not only had romantic scenes with Zhang Jingchu but also gunplay scenes. Not only the prop gun burnt his hand, Au Kam Tong also buried him alive. Because of this scene he had to "eat dirt". Later Ching Wan said, "In the film I became involved because of two buddies Goo Jai and Daniel, so the biggest lesson this time is 'making friends with the wrong people'."

[2009.07.31] STORM WARRIORS POSTER


Ekin Cheng, Ma Wing Sing, Aaron Kwok
courtesy of on.cc

courtesy of singtao.com

courtesy of takungpao.com

The Hong Kong Animation and Comic Book Convention opened today. The film STORM WARRIORS (FUNG WON II) will be officially released at the end of the year. With Tin Ha Publishing's 20th anniversary this year, STORM RIDERS original creator Ma Wing Sing created a hand drawn poster for STORM WARRIORS. The film company created a live person version of the hand drawn poster, 1,000 limited editions will be available at the event.

Reportedly Ma Wing Sing completed the initial draft in May. When the special poster was shot in June, Ma Wing Sing visited the set and personally observed Aaron Kwok Fu Sing and Dior Cheng Yi Kin. He praised the duo as the only choices for his Bo Gaing Wan and Nip Fung. Thus when the Pang Brothers wanted to make STORM WARRIORS he stipulated that they had to continue to play these two characters. Sing Sing and Ekin both expressed that running into each other again to play the same role ten years later was truly destiny.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

[2009.07.29] SEVEN LITTLE FORTUNES 50TH ANNIVERSARY: DRAGON IN SHALLOW WATER CHANGES NAME TO TRY ITS LUCK, DOWN IN THE DUMPS

If someone is like me, unless there are two me the world does not have a second Jackie Chan. Yet Jackie Chan has been someone else's me. He once tried his luck with the name Yuen Long but without any success. Finally he knew that in order to succeed in the film industry he had to make a name for himself.

Jackie Chan was originally named Chan Kong Sun, family name Fong Si Lung. Reportedly he was the descendant of the famous Tang Dynasty official Fang Xuanling. During the Seven Little Fortunes era, Master Yu Jim Yuen named him Yuen Lau. When eldest brother Sammo Hung Kam Bo's apprenticeship ended and gave up the name of Yuen Lung, Jackie Chan took the name to make something of it.

Years In The Business, Once Play Dead

Jackie Chan said, "When I made movies I used the name Yuen Long. I saw Hung Kam Bo didn't use it so I used it. At the time I was still young. (Corey) Yuen Kwai was assistant director under Tsui Siu Ming. Yuen Biao developed better than me. I too made POLICE WOMAN (NUI GAING CHAT) and EAGLE SHADOW FIST (DING TIN LAP DEI), but I wasn't the lead."

Back then Jackie Chan played small roles at Shaw's. Soon Bruce Lee passed away and martial art film box office was severely impacted and reduced production. His career ran into its first obstacle.

Jackie Chan recalls, "I was in the film industry for several years, from corpse, minor stuntman to lead then back to stuntman, and action director. I became less and less interested in film, so I returned to Australia to rest a little. One day, I received director Lo Wei's call to tell him to come back and make NEW FIST OF FURY (SUN JING MO MOON). Because of this film I changed my name."

After returning to Hong Kong, Lo Wei felt Yuen Lung did not sound like a good stage name and asked what kind of name Jackie Chan wanted. The brain trust after long consideration still could not come to an agreement, as they lingered on several names.

Jackie Chan says, "Siu Lung was dead so the name was unlucky, Dai Lung didn't sound good at all. I liked Zhao Zilong, but they said Zilong represented very small and turned it down. I also liked Yunlong, they said it would be hard to find. Later someone told me to use the name Sing Lung, I thought I would more likely become a bug than a dragon. At first I didn't dare to use this name but I didn't have a choice."

Snake In Eagle's Shadow, From Bug To Dragon

After changing his name, Jackie Chan almost "got his wish" and became a bug. Like being jinxed he did not have any luck at all. Jackie Chan says, "After changing to this name, I wasn't busy at all. No one saw my movies, the box office was poor. I was very disillusioned. I said I would give myself two years. If I really couldn't make it then I would return to Australia. A friend gave me ten Australian dollars to wish me success. Coincidentally, after two years, someone offered me SNAKE IN EAGLE'S SHADOW (SEH YING DIU SAU), even Lau Ka Leung praised my performance. For this film I was the lead, assistant director and stunt double of many. I was paid for the double work too and luck started to come. Since then I have used this name for thirty years, only now I realize this name sounded pretty good." (38)

[2009.07.30] FRUIT CHAN SCIENCE FICTION FILM LANDS IN VENICE


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Opening September 2, the 66th Annual Venice Film Festival will announce its selections today. The Fruit Chan Gor, Hur Jin-ho, and Cui Jian directed, so-called Mainland's first science fiction non competition film CHENGDU, I LOVE YOU will be this year's closing film, to be screened after the September 12 award ceremony. Previously Chan Gor's DURIAN DURIAN, PUBLIC TOILET and DUMPLINGS have all participated in the Venice event.

In addition, Sony Pictures Classic announced that it has landed the U.S., Canada, Latin America, Australia and New Zeland distribution rights to Zhang Yimou remake of Coen Brothers' claim to fame BLOOD SIMPLE.

[2009.07.30] OVERHEARD ACTORS DO NOT THINK ABOUT AWARDS

Daniel Wu and William Chan

Zhang Jingchu

Louis Koo and Lau Ching Wan
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courtesy of singtao.com




Michael Wong and wife Janet Ma

Anita Yuen and Christine Ng

Lau Ching Wan and wife Amy Kwok

Zhang Jingchu
courtesy of mingpao.com


courtesy of takungpao.com

Lau Ching Wan, Alex Fong Chung Shun, Daniel Wu (Ng Yin Cho), Louis Koo Tin Lok, Zhang Jingchu and Michael Wong Man Tak starred in OVERHEARD (SIT TING FUNG WON), which held a premiere two nights ago. Guest stars William Chan Wai Ting, Queenie Chu Wai Man and Sharon Lok Si Wan also attended. Aside from directors Alan Mak Siu Fai and Felix Chong Man Keung, Derek Yee Tung Sing, Fiona Sit Hoi Kei, Wilfred Lau Ho Lung, Anita Yuen Wing Yi and Bernice Liu Bik Yi attended as well. The guest raised a toast last night, the lead Lau Ching wan, Fong Chung Shun, Koo Tin Lok and Ng Yin Cho all deferred the center spot. Finally Wong Man Tak and Zhang Jingchu stood in the center.

Chan Wai Ting earlier while promoting the film with Ng Yin Cho was accused of being displeased with Daniel and supported his rumored girlfriend Angelababy to be attler than Daniel and could be a model. He immediately wanted to clarify that everything was fine. They were good friends and were only joking that day. Everyone knew that Baby would not be taller than Daniel. As for explaing to Ng Yin Cho, Chan Wai Ting praised he as a very nice elder who already exceeded being a gentleman. With his great experience, Daniel was more gracious than him.

Ng Yin Cho was asked whether he and Chan Wai Ting had any problem. He repsonded that nothing was wrong and the media made it up. He praised Chan Wai Ting for his hard work and for paying attention to others' acting, which was rare among new comers. "I didn't deliberately teach him, I just told him to relax a little. If he was too tense in his firstmovie his performance would be poor." OVERHEARDS after four days in release in the Mainland already made 30 million yuan. He expressed that he was very happy but he did not consider whether he would win any award.

Ng Yin Cho expressed that his girlfriend Lisa S. could not attend due to work, but would watch his new film later. He said that earlier she was very mad after watching SHINJUKU INCIDENT (SUN SHOOK SI GEIN). She scolded him for letting her watching a movie with such a brutal ending for him. "My girlfriend cried after watching. Mommy also doesn't want to watch my last scene." As for a couple scene with his girlfriend, he expressed that she was not too interested and in heels she was taller than him. After the interview, Ng Yin Cho and Chan Wai Ting posed for pictures without any issue.

Lau Ching Wan and his wife Amy Kwok Oi Ming attended the event. Ching Wan said that he still has not seen the entire film but was very satisfied with it. Did he feel this film can be an "award winning" film? He expressed that he did not deliberately think about winning award and said that everyone performed well in the film. He also said that he did not mind the comparison between four actors as everyone had his own specialty. He joked that he did not feel he would win and never thought about it. Ching Wan expressed that recently he has been working on his new film POKER KING in Macau. As for young model guest appearance, he joked that he did not see any and that he would pay more attention nexttime.

Koo Tin Lok was also busy with POKER in Macau. Two nights ago he took a helicopter to Hong Kong for premiere, after which he would return to work in Macau. Goo Jai knew about the film's great Mainland box office but was not worried about any comparison between the four male leads. He has worked with Ching Wan and Ng Yin Cho before so they had chemistry. Goo Jai's film FOR HIS MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE (DAI NOI MUK TAM LING LING GAU) will soon open, was he worried about competing with himself? He said that FOR will be released a week later and believed that the two different genre films would not affect each other. He also said that he did not think about winning an award with OVERHEARD, as being able to make a good fil mwas already enough.

Zhang Jingchu also was very happy about the film's Mainland performance. As for winning an award, she only said that this film was lighter than BEAST STALKER (JING YUN) and PROTEGE (MOON TOH) as the film had more romantic scenes. She praised the four male leads for their fabulous performance and hoped that each would be able to receive a nomination. Zhang Jingchu expressed that she would stay in Hong Kong for two to three days.

[2009.07.29] SANDRA NG TEACHES BARBIE HSU EXAGGERATED LAUGH


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Sandra Ng Kwan Yu and Wong Jing have not worked together in the past ten years. Recently they reunite for the film ON HIS MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE (DAI NOI MUK TAM LING LING GAU). Kwan Yu at first could not get into the role completely. Finally Brother Jing immediately "showed her the ropes" and told her to perform without too many concerns. Kwan Yu immediately returned to form as her expressions and movements were much more exaggerated than before. Finally she reached the desired result.

Barbie Hsu (Big S) was in a Wong Jing style comedy for the first time and was very nervous. Later she discovered that both Brother Jing and Kwan Yu were nice. Kwan Yu even taught her that for Wong Jing's films she must leave her sense of shame behind. Her expression had to be more exaggerated. The result indeed was right on the spot.

[2009.07.29] SHU QI SCREAMS BEFORE SHE JUMPS


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Best Actress Shu Qi with her fear of heights had to struggle with her co-star on a two stories tall cargo truck, jump from high above and hanging onto the cargo in mid air. Before the shoot Shu Qi was screaming and patting her chest to calm her nerves, but in the end the wire still injured her, she got bruised from all the bumping around and finally had to end the shoot early.

Shu Qi, Aaron Kwok Fu Sing, Collin Chou Siu Lung two nights ago worked on their new film CHUEN SING GAI BEI (CITY WIDE ALERT) in Tseung Kwan O. The team used a giant crane, cargo truck and several dozen cars. Shu Qi and Chou Siu Lung who was in special effect make up struggled on the two stories tall cargo. With her fear of heights Shu Qi was already on wires but still screamed with fright when she stepped on top of the cargo. "I am so scared! It's so high up!" Director Benny Chan Muk Sing asked both to jump from high above. Shu Qi repeatedly patted her chest and screamed for courage. She even screamed as she jumped, luckily they only needed a few takes to complete the scene.

Yet Shu Qi still could not breathe a sigh of relief because she had to shoot a hanging onto the cargo scene. Shu Qi only supported her body with her arms as her legs dangled in the air. Below several dozen cars traversed and the scene was very dangerous. However Shu Qi insisted on doing the stunt herself, even during the tests. She was very professional. She even made faces to ease the tension.

During the shoot, the wires tightly held onto Shu Qi. Her legs kept knocking against the truck, but she still insisted on completing the scene. After she got off the truck she was limping while feeling her left shoulder. The crew immediately gave her a shoulder massage while the director sent her home early.

Sing Sing also personally performed a scene in which a car ran him over. Sing Sing said about Shu Qi's injury, "This production has been pretty tough, even I got hurt! My left arm was caught in the wire, not much I could do about the bruise. My Taiwan concert is coming up, I can only keep applying ointment." Chan Muk Sing also praised Shu Qi's professionalism. "She has never jumped from so high up, and she was afraid of heights too. She didn't know (the shoot) would be like this before, she accepted it. She truly is a good actor."

[2009.07.29] OVERHEARD PLAYERS

Alan Mak Siu Fai (top), Felix Chong Man Keung
courtesy of singtao.com

On screen wearing headphones for surveillance are Lau Ching Wan, Louis Koo Tin Lok and Daniel Wu (Ng Yin Ch); off screen, as wearing headphones for playbacks are two directors -- Alan Mak Siu Fai and Felix Chong Man Keung

Text: Ben, Interview: Gum Sing, Ringo & Ben, Photo: Alan
(J: JET, C: Chong Man Keung / M: Mak Siu Fai)

Right Is Right, Wrong Is Wrong

J: What does OVERHEARD (SIT TING FUNG WON) want to express the most?

C: At first we only want to shoot a story about several cops who get into a lot of trouble due to a moment of greed. Later we discover, we want to say the most that for something we think is right initially, as soon as many people have opinions about it, we gradually believe it is wrong. The opposite is the same. The frightening part is we are already used to it, self evaluation is the best example.

M: The film mainly talks about greed and crime. Everyone may notice, every few robberies take place. Instead commercial crimes, like fixing the market and reporting false earning, are more and more common. They involve astronomical numbers. Even when found guilty, the punishment would not be too severe. Yet before their crimes are discovered, these people are still successful people in the society. In the end what is a crime? Which crime should be considered severe?

J: How do you determine right and wrong? In today's world, is there absolute right and wrong?

C: Absolute right and wrong are ideals, they may not be practical and people can only try their best. For example you should not cross the road on a red light, but when you are in a hurry you cross anyway. On many occasions we know something is wrong, but if we do not affect others we would lower our standards and do it.

M: This type of standard would change with the times. Particularly in the past ten years or five years it has become stranger and stranger.

C: When we studied the story, if we are the three protagonists in the film, would we break the law too? I definitely would! After making OVERHEARD, I have an understanding of what is moral. All along, we would only use moral on others or as a tool of judgment. Now I understand, real moral is used on myself.

Nonstop Speculation

J: Why would you choose an insider trading case as the story background?

M: We created this story in 07, when the Hang Seng Index headed for 35,000 and everyone was speculating stock. At the time a certain Kowloon Tong kindergarten was distributing enrollment forms and reporters interviews parents. One of the parents wished that after their children got into that kindergarten they could become an investment banker when they grew up, it was very frightening. Incredibly, now some people already treated stock speculation as achievement.

C: We came up with the story at the Koo Tai Place downstairs coffee shop. People who went to work there should be all telecommunication and advertising company people. I seriously eavesdropped. They never talked about work or gossip. Every table actually was talking about stock and investment strategy! That moment was quite stimulating. Greed is forever. When you see how much others make everyday, you are somewhat tempted and start to invest. Gradually you forget about your real job and start to pursue without end.

People are Working, People Are Listening

J: In your research, which are the most popular eavesdropping devices now?

C: I did the research before the shoot. The top technology at the time after the shoot ended could all be purchased on Ap Liu Street. Online there are many sites about eavesdropping and video surveillance. Adultery catching is popular in Taiwan so (the technology) was the most advanced. They even state that it is the seventh generation of the model that caught Chu Mei-Fang, it's very outrageous!

I have a few research sources. Every time I talk with him we have to go to places with people, like the park. Right away he removes the mobile phone sim card and battery, then he starts talking. Actually the currently eavesdropping technology sometimes doesn't need a machine. All you need to aim the receiver from the building across the street to the glass window. Glass curtain wall is the best. When people speak inside the building, they caused turbulence in the air that when transmitted to the glass they can be heard.

M: Eavesdropping is too easy. The more everyday an item is the better. The most common are microphone hiding light switches and electrical sockets. We asked a current police officer. The devices that he uses are so high tech that no one would believe it if they are used in a movie. He says that a needle sized device that has to be stuck on the wall only requires a receiver to be able to what everyone says next door.

Surveillance Men

J: Among the three lead actors, Lau Ching Wan's abilities are publicly recognized. When he performs does he elevate others' performance?

C: Smart actors understand very much that actors need mutual assistance. They know hot to let other people act. Ching Wan and (Tony) Leung Chiu Wai are this type of actors. Every drop of Ching Wan's acting method starts from the character, which may be the dumbest way since it takes a lot more work. In the past he mostly played heroes who are always very brave. This time I want him to play a cowardly figure. By the last scene he still is daft.

M: We of course know he is a great actor, but we didn't expect him to be so great. He would analyze the character's background, and motivation in extreme details, which is quite amazing! He knows how to, without influencing us, discuss with us, slowly study and even be willing to change character motivation, to accommodate what we asked of the performance.

J: This time Koo Tin Lok had to gain weight and dye his hair white. Why such an image?

C: At the first press conference, he grew a face full of beard and asked whether we could use it, haha. He is an actor who services the story, very willing to change his look. Only that we never thought of a suitable image until that morning when work began when I was able to find a reference. When I showed him that photo, he was surprised because that was (Benny) Chan Muk Sing, haha! Benny is a homebody who would cook in the office. He is the most capable of representing the character.

M: Koo Tin Lok's impression of cool is too strong. His bronze tan, thick hair are hard to break through. Before the shoot we were worried. After seriously talking and working together, he is the complete opposite of how I imagined him. He may be the one with pleasantly surprised me the most.

J: Ng Yin Cho is the most righteous, in the film what kind of person is he?

C: He represents the new generation that mocks the poor instead of the whore. In their world, all value system can break down into money and numbers. They are absolutely connected to material, their moral value can be relaxed at any time. I am not tailoring the story for Daniel, but since his addition he has such an effect. His image is the most handsome and innocent, but the worst words would come from his mouth.

Directors' Third Party

J: This time you are working for third time as directors. When two directors work together, what is the most obvious advantage?

M: One director has too many problems to resolve. Every decision may affect the film's quality. With another person around, it is more comfortable. The best part is the ability to mutually stimulate. Sometimes through discussion we would get a better understanding into the entire matter.

C: This is the reason that Hong Kong film professionals cannot successfully break into Hollywood. Most local film professionals are used to relying on natural talent and are reluctant to discuss. They often forget that several smart brains can serve the one plus one equals three effect.

J: (Derek) Yee Tung Sing is the producer. Did he participate in the production process and the shoot? What did he help with the most?

C: Yee Tung Sing did the job that we wanted to do the least, like looking for bosses and actors. He understood the script very well. During post production he provided a lot of great suggestions so the film maintained its original dramatic flavor.

M: Due to the sensitive subject, ultimately a story about police breaking the law, we couldn't find investors. Yee Tung Sing was familiar with the Mainland inspection so I asked him to take a look at the script. He even took the initiative and suggested helping us with the financing search. Creatively, he provided a lot of ideas, but also respected our creative freedom a lot.

J: After hits like INFERNAL AFFAIRS (MO GAN DOH) and INITIAL D (TAU MAN JI D), you still have a hard time with investors. Do you feel common ground is hard to find?

C: The world is very fair. Success this time, no matter how talented you are, does not represent the same success this time. When I finish a script, I feel very satisfied. By the time the film performs, it is already too far off. This is film's most interesting part.

M: I am more or less upset, but it has more advantage than disadvantage. At least it gives us a chance for examination and give the script a second thought. Otherwise every time is (Andy) Lau Tak Wa and Leung Chiu Wai, then ask the boss for 50 million. How much fun would that be?

[2009.07.29] DONNIE YEN IS INJURED AS GUEST ACTION DIRECTOR

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Two days ago was Donnie Yen Chi Tan's birthday. Two nights ago his wife Cissy Wang Ci Ci held a surprise birthday party in Lan Kwai Fong, Central for her husband and invited many friends like Leon Lai Ming, Wilson Yip Wai Shun, Chow Mei Fung, Lynn Xiong (Hung Doi Lam), Sandra Ng Kwan Yu and her family, Lam Ka Wah and his wife, Vincent Kuk Tak Siu, Roy Cheung Yiu Yeung, Cissy's sister Wang Yuan Yuan and others.

Lai Ming recently worked with Chi Tan on BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS (SUP YUET WAI SING). They earlier worked together on SEVEN SWORDS (CHUT GIM) and THE EMPRESS AND THE WARRIORS (GONG SAN MEI YUN). Around 10 Lai Ming came to celebrate with Chi Tan, stayed awhile and left after the cake cutting. Chi Tan personally walked Heavenly King Lai to his vehicle, but Chi Tan was limping. Recently he was injured on a shoot. Chi Tan said that Leon was busy with his concert and movie but he came anyway, so of course he had to personally see him off. Leon immediately said, "You shouldn't have, you don't need to." Chi Tan said, "He and I are very familiar, we worked together on three movies."

Chi Tan's wife helped him off his car earlier. "Earlier when I made 14 BLADES (GUM YI WAI) in the Mainland, (Peter) Chan Ho Sun asked me to be the action director for the BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS ending. I turned it down at the time because 14 BLADES was very tough. Originally Chan Ho Sun already finished that ending, but finally he talked me into shoot that ending scene again." Chi Tan said he aggravated his old wound for this film rather severely as he had to see a doctor, get acupuncture treatment and take medicine. This time he worked in the Mainland for a month and a half already and really missed his wife and children.

Would IP MAN 2's progress be hindered? He expressed hope that he would be completely recovered in a week. He would stay in Hong Kong for only a week then worked on an underwear ad in the Mainland.

[2009.07.29] SEVEN LITTLE FORTUNES 50TH ANNIVERSARY: DOUBTS OF YOUTH, PEEPING AT BATHING SI MO

Like Mainland writer Yu Hua's novel BROTHERS, Jackie Chan who was bald when he was young was like the book's Baldy Lee. He peeked at woman's body, the result of course was the inevitable Yu Jim Yuen punishment. Young Jackie Chan like Baldy Lee peeked at woman not because of lust but actually because of curiosity.

Jackie Chan claimed innocence in this matter. If it coordinated with his autobiography I AM JACKIE CHAN's description, you would have a deeper understanding of the matter. Jackie Chan wrote, "You may think we are too naive, actually not knowing anything about men and women and sex. Even at that time, most 12 year old children had certain understanding of the male and female biological structure. Yet, we didn't go to school or have time to explore. In addition, who would resolve our curiosity? Thus most doubts about men and women we could only rely on ourselves to answer."

Examining Opposite Sex, Ends In Failure
Actual practice is the hard reason. Who does not learn from failures in the matter of men and women? Only Jackie Chan's mistake was beyond wrong. He says. "I already decided to get to the bottom of the matter between men and women. That day, (Corey) Yuen Kwai and I got a few buddy brothers and plotted. We didn't let Yuen Lung or other older brothers know because they would heartlessly scoff at our folly. 'Hey, hurry and turn around.' Yuen Kwai said as he pushed forward for a clearer look. I immediately pushed him from behind. At that time Yuen Kwai already saw the face of the girl who was bathing."

Who was this girl? The answer made Jackie Chan "dare not have any thought of female for a long time after the failure of this opposite sex understanding exploration adventure".

"'God! It's Si Mo.' Yuen Kwai trembled and whispered to us. Yet Si Mo already heard the voice. In order to scare us off, she began to scream. The next day, Yuen Kwai and I trained as usual, but not because our bruises have already healed. It was because yesterday we got a spanking and training while seated hurt even more."

Blasphemy, Endless Consequences>
Women sometimes are indeed very holy, impurity against them was like blasphemy. The result was asking for trouble. Jackie Chan says, "I have tried to put the school's spirit tablets and statues on the ground and wiped them with wet cloth. It's much quicker than using a feather duster, but then for days I made mistakes in my performance: falling off the stage, hanging a pair of jeans on the banner, fake beard on fake beard that reached the ground, crushing my hand on the table. Fortunately, with the injured hand I didn't have to train."

While training could wait, fortune seldom repeats. Jackie Chan wrote in his autobiography, "After repeated mistakes, Master pushed me in front of the altar and gave me 20 lashes. That night I had a hard time finding a sleeping posture that did not touch the wound. I stared at the altar and asked, 'Now are we even?'" (37)

[2009.07.29] TRACING SHADOWS BEIJING PREMIERE


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The film TRACING SHADOWS (JUI YING) held its Beijing premiere on the 27th. An advanced screening was held in the morning. Francis Ng Chun Yu, Pace Wu (Ng Pui Chi), Xie Na, Jaycee Chan (Fong Cho Ming) and Dang ? Han gathered again. After the Beijing premiere, they will head to Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangzhou and Shenzhen on a promotional tour.

The Beijing premiere attracted many rarely seen guests like Fong Cho Ming's mother Lam Fung Giu. Reportedly Fong Cho Ming's mother was in charge of any movie that he starred in. This time Lam Fung Giu recommended him to play TRACING SHADOWS' "young landlord". That day the mother and the son saw the entire film for the first time. Other guests included many heavyweight friends. Xie Na also took time from her shoot to attend. She was very excited about her first martial art comedy film premiere, but this time she did not complain about director Ng Chun Yu's actor abuse. She even said, "I thank the director very much for giving everyone an extraordinary martial art journey."

[2009.09.29] RENMING RU TIAN PRAISES RESCUE HEROES

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On the night of the 27th, a film that celebrate the 60th anniversary of the new China, RENMING RU TIAN, held its premiere at the Henan's People Hall. Director Sun Tie and other members of the production team attended the event.

The film was a Henan Film and Television Group production, a feature film that brought the July 29 2007 rescue. A coal mine was flooded as 69 miners were trapped below. Miner formed volunteer rescue teams after 72 hours saved all 69 miners.

Monday, July 27, 2009

[2009.07.28] MICHELLE REIS RETURNS WITH BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS


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After over three years of intense production, the first New Year film of the year BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS (SUP YUET WAI SING) finally wrapped at Shanghai Studio's first 1:1 recreation of 1905 "Central" Hong Kong in history. Although the film included additions of superstars Donnie Yen Chi Tan, Wang Xueqi, Tony Leung Ka Fai, Nicholas Tse Ting Fung, Hu Jun, Eric Tsang Chi Wai, Chris Li Yuchun, Simon Yam Tat Wa, Fan Bingbing, Zhou Yun, Bateer and others, on the day of the production wrap only Michelle Reis (Lee Ka Yun) made an appearance. Even though it was obviously a ghost town, for her first film after marriage she still became the media focus.

Lee Ka Yun carried the load of the BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS wrap. She appeared in a burgundy red long dress and was very elegant. In the film, she played a woman who despite having no direct scene with beggar Leon Lai Ming influenced his life, made him stand up anew from depression and look for his courage to live. Lee Ka Yun honestly said, "When I first read the script and saw this wrap scene, I cried. She made me believe in love and even believe that love is the language that can transcend life and death." This is also the reason that Lee Ka Yun is deeply attracted to the character. Although Lee Ka Yun was reluctant to reveal whether she was "procreating" recently, she expressed that she took the role with the support of her family. She and her family got along harmoniously as each side gave the other room to develop. She would not retire from show business because of marriage.

According to director Teddy Chan Tak Sum, when the project was launched ten years ago he already had the intention for Lee Ka Yun to play this role. Later due to a variety of reasons the project was set aside and kept uncompleted. Although the script has been changing over ten years and the role of beggar kept on changing its casting, but Lee Ka Yun's character never had another choice.

Producer Peter Chan Ho Sun and director Chan Tak Sum expressed, the entire BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS production experienced countless difficulties and twists. Once it encountered a big film crisis. In the emergency, the producers invited Andrew Lau Wai Keung who was preparing a new film. Lau Wai Keung without another word dragged his luggage to Shanghai, joined the team and took over part of the production. Lau Wai Keung humorously said, "After ten years, BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS after such hardship finally started production. Of course I wish for everyone to be able to persist. How I wanted to shoot this city, finally I got the chance!"

Chan Ho Sun honestly said that although the film has already wrapped, post production work would be enormous. For the film to be released as scheduled on December 18, his mind now is filled with numerous problems of post production. Chan Ho Sun revealed that although the film was star stunned, the total star salary occupied less than 25%. It is a "healthy ratio" that would be hard to achieve even in Hollywood. 1/3 of the financing was spent on the set.

[2009.07.27] DANIEL WU EMBARRASSED WILLIAM CHAN


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Daniel Wu (Ng Yin Cho), William Chan Wai Ting, Alex Fong Chung Shun, Louis Koo Tin Lok and Lau Ching Wan two days ago attended the film OVERHEARD (SIT TING FUNG WON) photography exhibit opening ceremony. They arrived on a yacht.

Recently young models invaded the Book Fair, but Ng Yin Cho did not noticed and never discussed the subject with his model girlfriend Lisa S. Was he worried that they would take away jobs from his girlfriend? He believed that they would not because young models were not tall enough for the catwalk and different from models. Did he feel Angelababy can walk the catwalk? He asked Chan Ting Wai how tall Angelababy was and embarrassed him. Chan Ting Wai supported his rumored girlfriend and said, "Taller than you!" Ng Yin Cho then expressed that she could.

Fong Chung Shun said that the numerous young model news bored him. He joked that he would not eat ice cream and drink milk at events. He said that perhaps after becoming a father he was grumpier. He thought that young models were the most excessive when they were not writing cook book or health food book they were eating ice cream and drinking milk at the Book Fair. They were more suitable for the Food Fair. Thus he thought young models contributed to youth delinquency and were not too health. They gave people the impression that anyone who went out in a bikini could develop in show business. Although from the actor's angle to each its own, but the audience perspective it was uncomfortable. He would object to his daughter acting like that.

Goo Jai expressed that this film could be the most difficult in his film career. The worst part was he had to lose 20 pounds in three days for a car chase. The family passing scene also made him unhappy all day. Lau Ching Wan felt that the shoot was not too tough. Was he as romantic in reality as his proposal in the film? He said that he did not proposed romantically himself, only the film production required it. At home he already felt very romantic with looking at the scenery or taking walks, but not everyone could accept his romance. His old lady never praised him for it. Did they think they could win awards with this film? Goo Jai expressed that the credit of the entire film did not belong to him alone, so he never thought about awards. He would be very happy if the audience felt it was good. He expressed that he will work with Derek Yee Tung Sing on the new film CHEUNG WONG JI WONG (GUN KING OF KINGS).

Ching Wan also felt that awards were not important. He only wanted to make good Hong Kong films. Was he only making good movies? Ching Wan said, "I made less movies only because I want to spend more time with my family. I have been in the business for a long time already. I still haven't seen a lot around me clearly. Earlier after finishing MAD DETECTIVE (SUN TAM) I wanted to have time to look at the world. I don't have any plan, as long as I think it's fun then I would (make a movie). It's not to say what's good or not. (Are you in semi-retirement?) I still have to make a living, I absolutely am not in semi-retirement."

[2009.07.27] SEVEN LITTLE FORTUNES 50TH ANNIVERSARY: EIGHT HUNDRED WORD COMPLETE VERSION CONTRACTS TIGHTLY BIND DISCIPLES

In the film PAINTED FACES (CHUT SIU FOK), director Alex Law Kai Yui through Yu Jim Yuen portrayer Sammo Hung Kam Bo read dialogues about China Drama Academy contract content. The hundred words or so summarized the key points, but only until recently did Seven Little Fortune members had the chance to take a look at the 800 words actual contract. They immediately felt Master's contract negotiation abilities were actually as deep as his Beijing opera abilities.

Numerous Rules, Advantage: School

Although when each member enrolled in the China Drama Academy, they without exception had to sign a contract with the school; but over the years losses are inevitable. Now only Yuen Bo and several other students have the actual contracts. Yuen Bo says, "When we were little we didn't know, when we grew up due to a variety of reasons many brothers didn't actually see the contract content. Then for Seven Little Fortunes' 50th anniversary when everyone brought out the related material, we realized actually the contract had so many rules."

In general the sheer number of the rules already made some impatient. Yet Yu Jim Yuen set particularly many rules, like:

* monthly tuition of HK$100, food $500, room and board $20, miscellaneous cost $10, $180 total. If the student is physically unfit for study, party A (school) agrees to the former party's resignation. In case of resignation in the middle or using it as an excuse to escape, party B (student's parents) must pay all cost to party A.

* Party B cannot object to any role assignment to students. Party B has no right to interfere in or charge Party A for any performance or group performance (including performance tour abroad) that students participate in.

* Party B agrees and permits Party A to discipline the child, physically and verbally.

* Party B cannot demand any compensation from Part A for accidental student death

* Party A has the right to return Party B's child to Party B and be clear of any responsibility in times of war or riot

From today's standard, this contract already clearly expresses andhints at strict training. The school has control and all enrolled are willing participants. Yuen Biao says, "No fault for death, no right to interfere. It seems very one sided, but at the time what did we know. We never even thought of threatening to sue Master. That was Master, where would we get enough guts to!"

Opera Troupe Apprenticeship, Nine Year Agreement

Has Master Yu taken advantage of disciples, or was he only following traditions? According to one of Beijing Opera's Four Great Divas, Cheng Yanqiu, in his article OUR LEARNING PROCESS, "When I was six, I was recommended to and joined Mr. Rong Diexian's school. I wrote a seven year note, which stipulated seven years. After that I also had to help Master for a year. That would be eight years. The starting year was not included. Actually the contract was for nine years; in these few years, the instructor was responsible for everything of the student. All performance revenue belonged to the instructor. This was the standard for disciples for the opera troupe at the time." (35)

Friday, July 24, 2009

[2009.07.25] NICK CHEUNG WANTS TO BE MILLION DOLLAR BEST ACTOR

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Nick Cheung Ka Fai won Best Actor Special Mention with BEAST STALKER (JING YUN) at Korea's Puchon International Fantastic Film Festival while director Dante Lam Chiu Yin won Best Director. Yesterday Ka Fai returned from Korea and expressed joy for Lam Chiu Yin. He even called him from the scene right away. Reportedly Ka Fai attended the film festival as a special guest for his Best Actor Special Mention, he joked, "Then my position would be very peculiar? Actually award to me is not important."

Ka Fai claimed that Director Lam could not attend because he had to work on a film in Hong Kong. "At the venue I called Director Lam first hand to congratulate him, but no one answered. I had to leave the venue before someone picked up. The Old Lady instead was the latest to know." Ka Fai said that Director Lam asked him how many people were nominated. He said, "Due to the language barrier I wasn't too certain about a lot of film festival contents, but over 200 films participated. He was very happy after finding out because beating out a few films wouldn't be much of a big deal." When the event announced Ka Fai, he said, "I was afraid I heard wrong because I had to listen to the English translation. I wasn't sure until my assistant notified me. That moment was very sudden." Ka Fai won three Best Actor awards in a year. He said, "All three are important to me because each award is very valuable. This time winning with Director Lam is the rarest." As for celebrating, Ka Fai said that the boss would set up a celebration. He would take the chance to ask for a raise. He joked, "I want another million."

[2009.07.25] MICHELLE REIS JOINS BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS

The Peter Chan Ho Sun produced, Teddy Chan Tak Sum directed BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS (SUP YUET WAI SING) has entered its final stages. Donnie Yen Chi Tan, Wang Xueqi, Tony Leung Ka Fai, Nicholas Tse Ting Fung, Hu Jun, Eric Tsang Chi Wai, Chris Li Yuchun, Simon Yam Tat Wa, Fan Bingbing, Zhou Yun, Bateer, Wang Po-Chieh, and Leon Lai Ming have all appeared in the production. The final addition to the cast actually was Michelle Reis (Lee Ka Yun), who made her comeback after marriage after a long absence from the silver screen.

According to the film's promotional director Mr. Lu, Lee Ka Yun's connection to BODYGUARDS AND ASSASSINS could be traced back to ten years ago when the film was under its first preparation. At the time, Chan Ho Sun approached Lee Ka Yun but the film due to a variety of reasons was unable to be made. This time, Lee Ka Yun remained producer Chan Ho Sun and director Chan Tak Sum's first choice. "This character affected beggar's life." Mr. Lu revealed, although Lee Ka Yun's role would not have a lot of screen time it would enhance the film. "The director and the producer are both very touched that she is able to make this ten year long appointment." Reportedly, Lee Ka Yun next week will head to Shanghai for the entire film's wrap.

[2009.07.24] DONNIE YEN TAKES A BATH

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The Donnie Yen Chi Tan, Wu Chen and Qi Yuwu starred martial art film 14 BLADES (GUM YI WAI) earlier wrapped up its shoot in Yinchuan. Yesterday, the team unveiled a set of Yen Chi Tan "bathing" stills. For this scene, Chi Tan prepared for two months. Everyday he skipped lunch and persisted with his training just so that he could achieve the "developed muscle" effect that the director asked for. Chi Tan joked, "I should make time to shoot a pictorial collection." Among his recent kung fu films, Yen Chi Tan said that 14 BLADES was the one with the most fights and the most difficult fights. Aside from Vicki Zhao Wei, he and other leads Wu Chen, Kate Tsui Tsz Shan, Qi Yuwu all had scenes together as they fought from Hengdian all the time to Yinchuan. This film's action director Kuk Hin Chiu is top action director Yuen Woo Ping's disciple. His action design styles are very tough and forced Yen Chi Tan to pay extra attention every time. Halfway through the shoot he aggravated his old leg injury. To keep from hindering the schedule, Yen Chi Tan worked despite the injury and completed his scenes.

[2009.07.24] ON HIS MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE BEIJING PREMIERE

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On July 23, the Wong Jing directed comedy ON HIS MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE (DAI NOI MUK TAM LING LING GAU) held its Beijing premiere. Stars Louis Koo Tin Lok and Barbie Hsu switched gender roles in their rendition of tango.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

[2009.07.24] ZHANG JINGCHU LONGS TO MAKE A ROMANTIC FILM


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Zhang Jingchu is in another "men film". In her new film OVERHEARD (SIT TING FUNG WON) she has many scenes with Lau Ching Wan and Alex Fong Chung Shun. Although both are the silent type, when Fong Chung Shun is caught his face turns red. Jingchu even calls him cute!

Working in Hong Kong in recent years, Zhang Jingchu in her new film OVERHEARD plays a mother who is stuck between Fong Chung Shun and Lau Ching Wan. Fong Chung Shun and Lau Ching Wan have always given people the impression of cool. Jingchu says that they are easy to get along with and even reveals that Fong Chung Shun often turns red due to embarrassment.

Jingchu in the film has many emotional scenes with Fong Chung Shun. Does she feel he is very cool? She says, "No, he is very cute. Once the director joked with him and his face turned red in front of everyone. His expression was very embarrassed. I looked at him and his face turned even redder."

As for Ching Wan, Jingchu feels that he is like not of this world. On and off the set he comes and goes alone. "He has his own principals about his life in his world. (Is he hard to get along with?) No, I believe that he is very protective of his friends and wife. This is my first collaboration with Ching Wan, I feel his acting is great."

As for love, Jingchu says that she has not dated in a long time but she will not force the issue. As for suitors, she says, "Not too many, I normally don't go out. I am not the kind of girl who dates out of fear of loneliness. If it's destined, I don't have to look. Yet I really would like the chance to make a romance and play different characters."