[2023.03.23] FOR THE WEEK ENDING SUNDAY, MARCH 19 2023

For the week ending Sunday, March 19 2023

10 THE WANDERING EARTH II
  AKA : THE WANDERING EARTII
    d. Frant Gwo
    Andy Lau Tak Wa, Wu JUing, Li Xuejian, Sha Yi, Ning Li,
     Wang Zhi, Zhu Yanmanzi
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 173 mins.
  Opening February 9 2023

[ CINEMA CITY ]
    The sun is about to destroyed, and humans have built huge engines on the Earth's surface to help them find a new home. However, the road out into the universe is perilous. In order to save the Earth, a group of young people once again stepped forward to begin a life and death battle.

  9 65
    d. Scott Beck, Bryan Woods
    Adam Driver, Arianna Greenblatt

  8 HIDDEN BLADE
  Can : Mo Ming
  Lit : Anonymous
    d. Cheng Er
    Tony Leung Chiu Wai, Wang Yibo, Chengpeng Dong (Dapeng),
      Zhou Xun, Eric Wang Fujian, Huang Lei
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 131 mins.
  Opening March 9 2023
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/XhWTs42DdTo

[ CINEMA CITY ]
    In the 1920s, the Chinese Communist Party begins its struggle in Shanghai, leading the covert front of the Chinese Communist Party's Special Branch, the Party strive in their deadly battle against various forces. The unsung heroes march towards victory through irreplaceable and inimitable courage and contributions. After the outbreak of the War of Resistance Against Japan, the Chinese Communist Party's Special Branch in Shanghai circles between Chongqing, Wang Puppet Government and Japanese espionage agencies. Through an intricate system of intelligence behind enemy lines, they recruit the enemy, obtain information, kill traitors, and establish a broader united front line, charging towards Yan 'an on the eve of the victory of the War of Resistance...

  7 LOST LOVE
  AKA : FOSTER LOVE
  Can : Lau Shui Lok Fa
  Lit : Flowing Water Fallen Flower
    d. Ka Sing Fung
    Sammi Cheng Sau Man, Alan Luk Chun Kwong, Hedwig Tam Sin Yin
      Sean Wong Tsz Lok, Lee Yun Wai, Phoebe Ng Chi Kiu,
      Matt Jiu Kai Lam, Chui Ka Him, Maya Tsang Yui Tung,
      Wong Tsz Hin, Gordon Lau Chiu Kin
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 95 mins.
  Opening November 13 2022 at the Hong Kong Asian Film Festival
  Opening November 28 2022 (Preview)
  Opening March 2 2023
  fb: https://www.facebook.com/LostLoveMovieOfficial/
  Site : https://www.hkaff.asia/en/film/2022/detail/130

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    Parenting means raising and nurturing children, but oftentimes children enrich and enlighten the lives of parents instead.

    Chan Tin Mei and Ho Bun’s son passed away abruptly at three years old due to a congenital heart disease. Still in pain over the loss, Mei resists having another child.

    One day, Mei finds out that they can become a foster family. Her desolate heart finds sustenance from possibly regaining the feeling of being a mother. But when she discovers the emotional scars on the children caused by their harsh realities, she starts to adjust her expectations.

    Bun's extramarital affair leads to a big fight between the couple, but it also reveals the feelings concealed in Bun's heart. Mei realizes her selfishness; she has neglected Bun's feelings and the true needs of her wards. In the end, the foster children inspire her and help the couple to redeem their relationship. Although Mei is praised for her dedication to her foster children, she knows she has been saved by the children instead.

    When the couple finally settles into a simple and happy life with their foster child, Mei suffers a heart attack. In the final stage of her life, Mei's seven foster children reappear. She seems to see her son grow in these foster children.

[ HONG KONG ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL ]
    For his project under the lauded First Feature Film Initiative programme, director Ka Sing- fung tells the heartrending journey of a woman whose life is forever changed by the children she takes in as a temporary foster carer. In a career-best performance, Sammi Cheng stars as Mei, a woman trying to get over the death of her young son through the children she welcomes into her home. Each ward offers Mei a different challenge and a newfound appreciation for the difficulties of motherhood, but when her dedication to the job causes her marriage to turn sour, Mei is forced to make a choice.

  6 THE WHALE
    d. Darren Aronofsky
    Brendan Fraser, Sadie Sink, Hong Chau

  5 EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE
    d. Dan Kwan, Daniel Scheinert
    Michelle Yeoh (Yeung Chi King), Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy Quan,
      James Hong, Jamie Lee Curtis, Harry Shum Jr.

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

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

  3 CYBERHEIST
  AKA : DISCONNECTED
  AKA : DISCONNECT'D
    Can : Duen Mong
    Lit : Broken Net
    d. Wong Hing Fan
    Aaron Kwok Fu Sing, Simon Yam Tat Wa, Gordon Lam Ka Tung,
      Patrick Tam Yiu Man, Kenny Wong Tak Bun,
      Megan Lai Ya-Yen, Tony Wu Tsz Tung, Kathy Yuen (Tong Yi),
      Michael Ning (Bak Ji), Zeno Koo Ting Hin, Wiyona Yeung Lau Ching,
      Terrence Huang (Wong Yiu Wong)
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 110 mins.
  Opening December 1 2022 in Malaysia (POSTPONED)
  Opening March 9 2023
  Teaser : https://youtu.be/E-k_F8quEWA
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/_3tDvZoQbo0

[ CINEMA ONLINE MALAYSIA ]
    Hackers release a virus onto the web and unleash a large-scale cyber attack. Fortunately, cyber security engineer and IT whiz, Cheuk Ka-Chun, uses a firewall he developed to resolve the crisis. Unbeknownst to Ka-Chun, the mastermind behind this virus is his superior, Chan Ming-Chi. As the two begin to butt heads, Ka-Chun secretly develops a rival virus and Ming-Chi plots to have Ka-Chun's wife and daughter kidnapped. As Ka-Chun panics, his new virus starts to spread across every computer in Hong Kong - threatening the entire city's future.

[ SCREEN DAILY ]
    A cyber security engineer develops a powerful AI program, but then has to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.

  2 SHAZAM! FURY OF THE GODS
    d. David F. Sandberg
    Zachary Levi, Asher Angel, Jack Dylan Grazer, Rachel Zegler,
      Adam Brody, Ross Butler, D.J. Cotrona, Grace Caroline Currey,
      Meagan Good, Lucy Liu, Djimon Hounsou, Helen Mirren,
      Faithe Herman, Ian Chen, Jovan Armand,
      Marta Milans, Cooper Andrews,
    Rizwan Manji, PJ Byrne, Diedrich Bader

  1 SUZUME
    d. Makoto Shinkai
    Japanese Animation
    Rating : I
    Length : 121 mins.
    Opening March 2 2023

[ CINEMA CITY ]
    Suzume, a 17-year-old girl who lives in a quiet town in Kyushu, meets Souta, a young man looking for a door. Following Souta, Suzume finds an old door in the mountains and reaches out her hands towards the door as if pulled by something. This opened door will bring disaster; thus, Souta must travel round to lock the door to avoid disaster. But then, a mysterious kitten turns Souta into a broken wooden chair. To catch the kitten, Suzume and Souta follow it and travel from Kyushu to Tokyo. "Doors of disaster" begin to appear across Japan simultaneously, and Suzume needs to close and lock the doors one by one to stop the disasters. Unexpectedly, a forgotten truth is waiting for her.

[2023.0323] LESLIE CHEUNG FANS SHARES ENCOUNTERS AT MEMORIAL EXHIBIT

A group of Leslie Cheung fans and a shopping center organize an exhibit for the 20th anniversary of his passing.  

Man Suet Yee shares the story of how she and Leslie Cheung went from colleagues to friends.  The exhibit displays her photos with him

Experienced fan Shirley not only shares her collection but for the story of her encounter with Leslie Cheung

Docent Ling feels that Leslie Cheung never left us.  His work never feels outdated at anytime 
courtesy of mingpao.com

April 1st would be the 20th anniversary of the superstar of a generation "Gor Gor" Leslie Cheung Kwok Wing's passing. A group of Gor fans and the Olympic shopping center organized TIMELESS LESLIE ENCOUNTER through 20 stories of "encounters" introduced Gor Gor to everyone from multiple angles, including Candy Cheung (Man Suet Yee) sharing her experience from working on television series with him, Gor Fan Shirley's memorable kiss being gladly accepted by her idol. The memorial event would take place from today to April 2nd for 11 days. Many out of print publications and collections would be on display. For two weekends in a row free "docents" would be available. At the event on the 31st, Gor Gor's friends, colleagues, experienced fans and "late Wing fans" would share their experience. Mike Tsang Pei Tat would also be on hand to perform Gor Gor's classic songs.

The venue had a 430 inch big screen that played 20 of Cheung Kwok Wing's classic work videos and the giant montage of over 3,000 "encounter with Gor Gor" photos. At the center of the event was a wall with a neon light infinity symbol. It was filled with titles of Gor Gor's most representative work as voted by Gor fans around the world. They included classic songs THE WIND RISES AGAIN, MONICA, FALLEN FOR YOU, and movies DAYS OF BEING WILD (AH FEI JING JUEN), FAREWELL MY CONCUBINE (BA WONG BIT GEI), A BETTER TOMORROW (YING HUNG BOON SIK) and others.

Also on display was a self playing piano that played 8 of Gor Gor's classic songs in a loop. The event also invited talented musicians to play to salute Cheung Kwok Wing. Visitors would be able to make donations to participate in producing the giant montage Cheung Kwok Wing instant photo wall. The event created 4 Cheung Kwok Wing classic iron on designs for fans as well.

Man Suet Yee shared her story with Gor Gor and wrote about them turning from colleagues to good friends. She and Gor Gor worked together on RTV series and would always remember her days of working with Gor Gor. Their group of young people after work was unwilling to sleep, once they went to one of their homes for a pot luck party, almost forgot where they were from all the fun they had and still went to work as usual the next day. Young people were rebellious like this.

Having followed Gor Gor for over 40 years, experienced fan Shirley was one who provided items from her collection and shared her "encounter with Gor Gor". After 20 years, she still missed him. "Gor Gor was a superstar who beyond our reach, but he was very friendly and always had others in mind. It was like we grew up together, I really missed him. 20 years ago, on the day of his passing, I was very depressed until his funeral. I went to bid farewell and watched his hearse depart. I was so heartbroken that I lost it immediately and broke down in tears. After so many years, now I would miss Gor Gor normally, spread his love and the beauty of how serious he was about things and sincerely he was toward friends."

Shirley said since she was a teenager, she was attracted to Gor Gor's handsome looks. "I treated him like a boyfriend, I really admire how he treats work, people and things, he was very kind." She looked back at the 1980s when the technology was not as advanced and her family was very strict, chasing stars was very difficult. She could only join the fan club. She was fortunate to have participate in several of Gor Gor's birthday parties, two of which she would never forget. Shirley recalled, "Once at a Central hotel ballroom, I was picked to play a game on the stage and received an autograph poster from Gor Gor. At the time I gave him a kiss, Gor Gor didn't resist and even knelt down lightly to get close to me. He gladly accepted it. In my impression he was very tall, very handsome, smelled great. At another fan club event, near the end I ran to the stage and lined up to get a photo with him. Gor Gor was very friendly, he even put his arm around my shoulder. I was very nervous, but the scene was very hard to forget." Shirley said that she was very thrifty when she was young, relying on her allowance to buy Gor Gor's poster, work, photos and newspaper clippings. So far she has collected over 100 items. On Gor Gor's birthdays and passing anniversaries, she would take them out to reminisce.

Exhibit docent Ah Ling has fallen for Gor Gor since his 1980s record FALLEN FOR YOU. She praised her idol as the total package, his film ALL'S WELL ENDS WELL (GA YAU HEI SI) was very entertaining. She too said that in that era it was very hard to come in contact with stars. She could only occasionally try her luck at the radio stations or recording studios. "I only saw Gor Gor twice, once I waited for him for a picture outside Commercial Radio. I still have that photo today. I am envious that Shirley got to kiss Gor Gor." Although Gor Gor passed away years ago, Ah Ling felt that Gor Gor never left. "He would always appear around me because normally when I go to work I would constantly listen to his songs. Gor Gor had great taste, his image was very trendy. Even now as I look back at his work and photos, I wouldn't feel he was outdated."

[2023.03.23] MUSIC VIDEO BRINGS BACK MEMORIES OF LOLETTA LEE'S FIRST ONSCREEN KISS

courtesy of on.cc

Loletta Lee Lai Chun was the lead actress in the late superstar Leslie Cheung Kwok Wing's commemorative album never before released song WHO IS THE MOST LOVED MY DEAREST music video. She said that when she heard Gor Gor's interpretation of his version, she thought that it was not as sad as the original. She was reminded of memories like her first on screen kiss and her first love. She said that when she worked with Gor Gor on the film FOR YOUR HEART ONLY (WAI NEI JUNG CHING) she was still a new actor. "He at the time couldn't be any more popular. When I saw him I was a little nervous, but actually he was very easy going. He took the initiative, came over and asked, "Are you Chun Chun?" He seemed to have given me the courage to talk to him." She admitted that at the time she was so shy that she did not dare to look at Gor Gor directly, but he did not give her any pressure. He put her at ease so they would be able to finish the shoot."

[2023.03.23] SAM HUI'S HONG KONG COLISEUM CONCERT WILL STREAM ONLINE

courtesy of on.cc

courtesy of mingpao.com

"Song God" Sam Hui Koon Kit starting April 7th will perform 7 shows at the Hong Kong Coliseum. One of the founders of the organizers Siu Chiu Shun and Lawrence Cheng Tan Shui yesterday announced that the last show would be streamed online via a live pass to over 50 cities in Southeast Asia, North America and the mainland, a simultaneous live stream with high definition video and a global sing a long would take place. Cheng Tan Shui revealed that Hui Koon Kit only had one request -- to benefit the disadvantaged in the community. Thus over 1,000 online live pass would be donated to charitable organizations.

[2023.03.22] FOR THE WEEK STARTING SATURDAY, MARCH 18 2023

For the week starting Saturday, March 18 2023 (Week 11)

VIUTV CHILL CLUB CHART

  5 AIN'T NO SMARTIES
  Can : Chung Ming Dau
  ANSONBEAN (Chan Ngai Sun)

https://youtu.be/RJgU5-z9z4o

  4 RAPHAEL THE ARCHANGEL
  Can : Ji Siu Wan Yau Nei Chui Luen
  Leung Chiu Fung

https://youtu.be/VVvsqchRcAU

  3 LITTLE LAM REAL ESTATE
  Can : Siu Lum Buk Dong Chan
  Terence Lam Ka Him

https://youtu.be/KNwmV-dUBXU

  2 THE FIRST FAN
  Can : Dai Yut Gor Mai
  Jeffrey Ngai Chun Sun

https://youtu.be/cuERt5FAvV0

  1 RAPHAEL THE ARCHANGEL
  Can : Ji Siu Wan Yau Nei Chui Luen
  Andy Leung Chiu Fung

https://youtu.be/VVvsqchRcAU

[2023.03.19] SIMON YAM WISHES FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO SET UP A NEON LIGHT STREET

Simon Yam and Henick Chou have a big age difference, but both have a special place in their hearts for neon lights
courtesy of on.cc

Henick Chou and Simon Yam attend the A LIGHT NEVER GOES OUT advanced screening
courtesy of singtao.com

courtesy of mingpao.com

Simon Yam Tat Wa, Henick Chou Hon Ning, director Anastasia Tsang Hin Ning and producer Saville Chan Sum Yiu yesterday appeared at the A LIGHT NEVER GOES OUT (DUN FOR LAN SHAN) advanced screening, and presented gifts to the neon light masters on and off camera Tong Kwok Cheung and Wu Chi Kai. Today happened to be Brother Wa's 68th birthday. The event waited until Brother Wa finished his work, and immediately brought out birthday cake to celebrate with the the birthday boy. Brother Wa after accepting the cake wished for A LIGHT NEVER GOES OUT to be a big box office hit. The director also thanked Brother Wa for contributing his birthday wish to this film. Brother Wa revealed that his personal birthday wish has all been good health, so for celebrating he would be already very happy with dinner with the family.

When Brother Wa volunteered to take this role, the pandemic was at its peak. Originally working in the Mainland, he was willing to be in quarantine for 21 days in order to participate. He even spent a week to learn to make neon lights. In the process he even got a little hurt; he said that at the most difficult period he needed to help new directors and new actors even more. In addition, because he grew up in the Wan Chai district he witnessed the beauty of the neon lights in the 60s. Back then entire streets of Wan Chai were neon lit, which was very memorable. This color could not be duplicated. Although Hong Kong no longer had neon lights, we still would be able to remember them through film and support them in spirit; thus he hoped the government would be able to set up a street in Wan Chai or Mongkok for neon lights as for landmark in Hong Kong, which would also increase the tourism element. Young Chou Hon Ning has never seen neon lights in all their glory. He said that through film he watched the real face of neon lights, praised Brother Wa as very amazing to be able to come up with an idea to preserve the art of neon lights.

[2023.03.18] WITH HONG KONG FILM REBOUND SUCCESSES, VINCENT KOK DOES NOT DARE TO DIRECT

Vincent Kok treats himself like a newcomer and create film scripts
courtesy of mingpao.com

Vincent Kok Tak Chiu yesterday shared his financial experience at a bank event at Central. He said that he has been safe with his improvement. Some friends have invested in artwork or cryptocurrency, but he has yet to dare to participate. He would rather making money from doing something solid, currently he is creating scripts. Yet with the recent Hong Kong film successes, he instead considered not directing personally. He explained that because the trend now is new directors, movies that he has directed are already considered old. He said, "Maybe I would joint direct or produce, I want to work with new directors." Speaking of his buddy Dayo Wong Tze Wa's film A GUILTY CONSCIENCE (DUK SIT DAI JONG) exceeding HK$ 100 million at the box office, he said, "I have congratulated him. It is very outrageous, over HK$ 100 million! When something so outrageous can happen, it is something to be very excited about. Very obviously the world is telling us, creativity is the most important. The traditional hit's cast and crew don't matter. I treat myself like a newcomer when I create."

[2023.03.18] MIRROR RELEASES ITS FIRST ENGLISH SINGLE AND PLANS A WORLD TOUR

Two song releases clash as Keung To ends up competing with MIRROR

Keung To fully promotes their idol's single

Allegedly Keung To rapidly removes his CHASE post to promote RUMORS 
courtesy of on.cc

MIRROR talks with the Associated Press about their music
courtesy of singtao.com

MIRROR works on the music video for their first English song

Keung To's remake of Leslie Cheung's CHASE receives mixed reviews online
courtesy of mingpao.com

Popular guy group MIRROR yesterday released its first English single RUMOURS and spoke with the Associated Press earlier. They said that the English song for MIRROR would be an important milestone. In the future they would still continue to create Cantonese songs and wish Cantonese music would become number one in Asia.

As MIRROR expands to the overseas market, its first English single RUMOURS was released yesterday (17th). The 12 earlier spoke with foreign media. Speaking of MIRROR's influence on Hong Kong's new generation, Anson Lo even revealed that MIRROR would plan to tour next year.

Ian said that unlike their earlier Cantonese hits that conveyed an image of "a bunch of kids" and their energetic side, the new track shows they have become men. Ian continued that they are not trying to particularly target any markets, but then they want to show the possibility of what a boy band from Hong Kong can bring to everyone. Speaking of the two month hiatus after the accident in their July concert last year, Edan Lui Cheuk On admitted, "We will never say that we already got through it, it was a huge lesson." Stanley Yau Tsz Chun also said that it taught them to cherish every moment.

Some have criticized them for making commercials and money more than focusing on their singing career. Anson Lo said that the group is trying to slow down its schedule to strike a better balance, the members now gather at least once or twice a month for activities such as meetings or dance lessons -- a significant change as they seldom met each other outside work in the past. Releasing the English song for MIRROR is an important milestone. Anson Lo continued that the group will monitor audiences' reactions closely but that they will no doubt continue producing music in Cantonese, even as some members might produce solo songs in Mandarin. He revealed that MIRROR also has plans to launch a worldwide tour possibly next year. Edan even said that their ambition of reviving Cantopop as Asia's number one music might sound "like daydreaming, but I think we should have that goal inside our hearts and we should try to do our best to pursue this dream."

(https://apnews.com/article/hong-kong-boy-band-mirror-canto-pop-996a380ec490c8f042ac3dfbee620b95)

RUMOURS yesterday was released on various music platforms. Its global distribution would have different marketing strategies. In the U.S. at noon on the 17th Eastern Time, they would appear on the Times Square billboard and become the first Hong Kong artists' international single promotion on the symbolic billboard of New York's Times Square.

Since the guy group MIRROR started, despite the 12 being rumored to be divided into "upper and lower tier" long ago members often talked about "Only Unity, No Division". The 12 just announced the entire group would work on the new film WE 12 (12 GWAI DOH). Yesterday they even released their first English group song RUMORS as its first shot into the world, proving that the brothers were united in breaking out of Hong Kong. Because the song would be the guy group's first international step, not only the 12 have been focused on it but also the fans have already planned a strategy and were ready to launch the 12 into the "Hong Kong BTS'.

The English group song and its music video were released yesterday at midnight and 9PM, but some MIRROR fan realized that Keung To's remake of Leslie Cheung Kwok Wing's CHASE for Universal Record's REMEMBERING LESLIE project and its music video were also available on streaming platform at the same time. In other words he was clashing with himself. Some revealed that some fan groups would only promote CHASE, and Keung To also reposted the post. Yet "for reasons unknown" it was removed rapidly and changed into a RUMOURS post to support the group song.

Although the fan clubs of the 12 continued to post RUMOURS' promotional poster, MIRROR fans still were upset at Keung Candies for promoting CHASE and blasted them for being selfish and not fully support the group song. They even accused Keung Candies of lacking "team spirit". Some claimed online that when 10 of MIRROR's members earlier attended the VIU X MakerVille press conference, each member was promoting WE 12 (12 GWAI DOH) hard, but Keung To who stood in the edge of the back row during captain Lokman, vice captain AK, Jer and others' interview kept nodding and moving around like he was sleepwalking. In the short 3 minutes he even yawned 7 times, his "soul" only returned to his body when the media finally asked him questions. In comparison Ian, Tiger, Frankie and others who have not had the opportunity to speak appeared to be much more focused.

However, some online felt that this MIRROR fan internal strife should again be blamed on ViuTV and their manager's mishap. They felt that even though Universal Record posted, they had to be notified first. They felt that the trouble only came because someone insisted on "raising MIRROR free range".

Anson Lo and Keung To both participated in Universal Record's REMEMBERING LESLIE project. The former remade Cheung Kwok Wing's THE AFFAIR while Keung To's CHASE was released yesterday. The online reviews have been polarizing. On Universal's facebook page, many Keung Candies praised the song as touching and Keung To's singing sincere, "Different interpretation, different era idols" and the like. Yet many negative reviews have appeared online, citing Keung To's singing for the lack of emotion. "Is this a salute or an insult?"

[2023.03.18] SEAN LAU, SAMMI CHENG WIN HONG KONG DIRECTORS' GUILD AWARDS

Sean Lau says that the chance of him acting with Amy Kwok would be very slim

Kay Tse wraps her arm wrapped around her husband Louis Cheung

Tsang Lok Tung, Michelle Wai

MIRROR's Tiger Yau, Frankie Chan, Lokman Yeung, Jer Lau want to catch directors' attention
courtesy of on.cc

Directors'  Guild Best Actor Sean Lau and Best Actress Sammi Cheng 

Dee Ho complains about being shown up by the well dressed MIRROR

One of the TO MY NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD SELF directors Kwok Wai Lun and producer Wong Wai accept the Best Film award
courtesy of singtao.com

Kwok Wai Lun and Wong Wai accept the Best Film Award on behalf of director Mabel Cheung

Mabel Cheung says that if she would go back in time, she would still promise the headmaster to make TO MY NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD SELF without any regret

Sahal Zaman (Lam Lok) wins Best New Actor

Joe Cheung receives the Directors' Guild honorary award 

Tiger, Frankie, Dee, Lokman and Jer want to take advantage and meet directors

courtesy of mingpao.com

"The Hong Kong Film Directors' Guild anniversary banquet and award ceremony" two nights ago took place in Tsim Sha Tsui. Derek Yee Tung Sing, Louis Koo Tin Lok, Ann Hui On Wa, Sammo Hung Kam Bo and his wife Joyce Godenzi (Go Lai Hung), Simon Yam Tat Wa, Irene Wan Bik Ha, Sean Lau Ching Wan, Louis Cheung Kai Chung, Kay Tse On Kay, Cya Liu, Chrissie Chau Sau Na, DaDa Chan Jing, Lin Minchen, Fish Liew Chi Yu, Tsang Lok Tung, Michelle Wai Nga Sze and others attended. 10 year old Pakistani amateur actor Sahal Zaman (Lam Lok) won "Best New Actor". Joe Cheung Tung Cho received the "honorary award". Sammi Cheng Sau Man with LOST LOVE (LAU SHUI LOK FA) won "Best Actress". The film DETECTIVE VS. SLEUTHS (SUN TAM DAI JIN) brought Lau Ching Wan the "Best Actor" and Wai Ka Fai the "Best Director" Awards. "Best Film" went to TO MY NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD.

Kay was asked what birthday gift she got from her husband. Ah Chung interrupted. "Everyone always set me up, actually I wrote a love song for the old lady but our position in music is very far apart. I mean well, let's see she accepts it." Kay praised her husband as thoughtful, the song was entertaining and the melody was touching.

MIRROR's captain Lokman two nights ago with members Jer, Tiger and Frankie, along with ERROR member Dee Ho Kai Wa attended the event in Tsim Sha Tsui. The MIRROR four joked that they drew straws to attend. Lokman said, "Of course we can't be without Jer, he is a Hong Kong Film Award Best New Performer nominee. Frankie has good acting skills. Tiger also has a dream to direct. Dee has HK$ 100 million box office."

With so many directors at the event, would they take the opportunity to offer their services? They said that they have already prepared for their tricks. Lokman said that he would quietly stand next to the director to strike up a conversation. Tiger, who was made fun of for dressing like a waiter, would not mind serving drinks. Jer said that he would sing on stage to get attention. Dee joked that he would pretend to be their "manager". "If 4 aren't enough we can do 8 or 12, if you need anything call me!"

Dee said that he did not know MIRROR members would attend. "I thought it was just a dinner, A GUILTY CONSCIENCE would have a table. In the end they cannot be anymore pretty in formal, while I am Wa Jai."

Ching Wan won the Directors' Guild Best Actor. When he accepted the award he joked that some said Lam Lok was his son. Then later backstage they even posed for a "father and son" photo. Said to have an enormous opportunity to win the Hong Kong Film Award Best Actor, he said, "Really? (Are you confident?) Winning an award doesn't need confidence, only making movies would need confidence. What needed to be done is already done. Everyone knows my record. (A lot of strong competition?) That's good, the film industry needs different actors. This year has more new faces, I don't mind playing with everyone." As for how he would celebrate, Ching Wan said that he would not have the time yet because today he would work on the Philip Yung Tsz Kwong directed new film BA BA (PAPA). Rarely playing a father before, he has not had much difficulty from working with children. "The story is pretty special, I would have a son who as a teenager killed the entire family. Several child actors would play this role. (Why didn't you bring your wife Amy Kwok Oi Ming?) We are used to going out alone, Mrs. Lau is used to rarely coming out, rarely entertains, and leaves me with all the work. (Doesn't she have the acting bug?) Probably not, she really enjoys her life now. I am not the one who keeps her from working. I feel a woman needs to have her own life too." Ching Wan also said that they would rarely be invited as a couple. As for his buddy Dayo Wong Tze Wa, his new film broke the HK$ 100 million mark at the box office. Ching Wan said that privately he would not frequently congratulate people, he would wish good health for them more.

Sammi won this Best Actress award for the first time. Before guest presenter Koo Tin Lok revealed the name on the stage, he already hinted that his pick would be Sammi. He joked, "If not would I be in a big heap of trouble?" When he opened the envelope, he screamed, "It really is a big heap, a big heap of victory!" The crowd cracked up. Winning her first Directors' Guild Best Actress, Sammi said that it was her first Directors' Guild banquet and she was impressed. "This award is very meaningful, because I received the recognition of professional directors' evaluation; I feel truly no one should give up at any age. Even if you question yourself in the middle, don't know what the road ahead will hold, you should hold on tight to your original intention to act. Now my mind keeps on thinking about how to improve, how to play different roles well, and no longer question myself." Sammi also thanked the director, all of the cast, and her faith, from which no matter how highs or lows in life, disheartened and disillusioned she was, she would always have the strength to support herself. Whether she would win awards or not she would be grateful. Has her Hong Kong Film Awards Best Actress confidence been increased? She admitted that she did not dare to think about that. Although occasionally this idea would pop up, she has already won the Hong Kong Film Critic Society and the Directors' Guild awards and already had a lot of recognition; in addition many directors and actors were present on this night, she would take the chance to discuss whether they would have any opportunity to work together. Anyone I haven't worked with I would want to."

TO MY NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD SELF (CUP SUP GAU SHUI DIK NGOR) caused a series of trouble. Director Mabel Cheung Yuen Ting was absent, producer Wong Wai and joint director Kwok Wai Lun accepted the award. Wong Wai said, "She (Cheung Yuen Ting) said to ask the former headmaster who started the project to forgive herself; even if she traveled back in the time and the headmaster would again ask her to make this document, she still would agree right away without any regret, and be proud of the students who had the courage to share their stories of growing up. She would also be proud of the team that over these 10 years has been dedicated to the pursuit of the ideal, without any regard for salary. She is even proud to be able to chronicle the changes of Hong Kong in these 10 years."

"During these stormy days, this award from the Directors' Guild was such a great surprise. We sensed that the film industry has people who make right choices." Wong Wai had many people she would like to thank, the most grateful that the school evaluated laws, reasons, emotions and different factors to bring this film to the world; for even more people to understand all the pain and the joy young people experienced on the journey of growing up, and for most people of Hong Kong to be able to relive the transformation Hong Kong experienced over these 10 years.

Kwok Wai Lun said that this document got into a lot of trouble and understood that how cruel reality was. The incident also brought some impact to the industry's ecology, which would hope to ]avoid this type of incident from happening again, learn how to protect the participants and performers' psychological changes, and the creators' freedom of speech and creativity. He continued and said that innocent people would not have to prove their innocence, no one has been swindled or forced into the production. He also said that for now she would not express any public comment. "In order to protect some people, inevitably some people may be emotionally upset after finding out the truth. The only one who can fix the problem is the one who created it, I wish for the school, the team, and the students to peacefully settle the matter."

Veteran filmmaker Cheung To Cho received the honorary award. He said that the director was the hardest to grasp, as they always would have their heads in the clouds. Since everyone has given him the rare recognition, he would treat directing as his lifelong work.

HONG KONG DIRECTORS GUILD AWARDS
BEST FILM: TO MY NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD SELF
BEST DIRECTOR: Wai Ka Fai (DETECTIVE VS. SLEUTHS)
NEW DIRECTOR: Ho Cheuk Tin (THE SPARRING PARTNER)
BEST ACTOR: Sean Lau Ching Wan (DETECTIVE VS.SLEUTHS)
BEST ACTRESS: Sammi Cheng Sau Man (LOST LOVE)
BEST NEW ACTOR: Sahal Zaman (Lam Lok) (THE SUNNY SIDE OF THE STREET)
HONORARY AWARD: Joe Cheung Tung Cho

[2023.03.17] TVB WILL AIR SPECIAL PROGRAMS TO REMEMBER LESLIE CHEUNG

The TVB special will feature past Leslie Cheung performances and interviews

TVB will air the restored version of ONCE UPON AN ORDINARY GIRL
courtesy of mingpao.com

April 1st this year would be the 30th anniversary of Leslie Cheung Kwok Wing. In memory of this music superstar, TVB would air a special program, films and television series in salute. From March 18th, at late night for five weekend in a row it would air the professionally restored ONCE UPON AN ORDINARY GIRL. On April 2nd it would air the high definition digitally restored SUNSET IN PARIS.

Starting on the 18th, for three weekend in a row TVB would air a Cheung Kwok Wing themed special program, including films, series, music and variety programs. For two Saturdays at 10:30 to 11 PM on TVB Jade, the program would not only air many of Gor Gor's classic hits including WIND CONTINUES TO BLOW, MONICA, LOVE OF PAST YEARS, but also Gor Gor's exciting performance in major TVB shows. Gor Gor's talented as well as energetic and lovable side would be shown. The program would also have clips of Gor Gor's past TVB interviews.

In addition, the program has also invited Gor Gor's friends, colleagues and elders like Chung King Fai, Sam Hui Koon Kit, Alan Tam Wing Lun and Loletta Lee Lai Chun to share their experience with Gor Gor.

On Sunday midnight and Monday 12:05 AM, for 5 weeks in a row his series ONCE UPON AN ORDINARY GIRL would air. The version would also be digitally restored in order to provide viewers with even better audio and visual experience.

TVB Jade on April 2nd at 10 PM would air the digitally restored music movie SUNSET IN PARIS's high definition edition. The 4K edition would air on myTV Super; J2 on March 19th and 26th at 9PM would air his films ROUGE and AS TEARS GO BY. On the night of the 20th anniversary of Gor Gor's passing, from 10:30 to 11:15 PM TVB Jade would air JADE SOLID GOLD LESLIE CHEUNG SPECIAL that would reminisce Gor Gor's classic hits one after another in a special format with the audience.

[2023.03.17] RONALD CHENG TRAINS HIS CHILDREN TO FOLLOW DISCIPLINE

Ronald Cheng praises Edan Lui for having a more precise grasp of his acting pace, which is a huge improvement

Edan Lui plays the explosive son in OVER MY DEAD BODY
courtesy of mingpao.com

Ronald Cheng Chung Kei and Edan Lui Cheuk On after CHILLI LAUGH STORY (HOP GA LAT) in the new film OVER MY DEAD BODY (SI SEI SI SEI SI SUP SEI) again played father and son. The two this time held back their comedic image, and treated each other like enemies and prevented the other was invisible. For me they still had no problem. Ronald praised Edan's grasp on controlling the pace as precise; Edan said that he already treated Ronald like Dad, so during the shoot he had no worry. In real life, Ronald said that he was both a strict and a kind father, valued communication with his children as they would talk about anything and everything; Edan felt that no matter how the family would argue, in the end they would be fine.

Ronald felt that the biggest difference from working with Edan this time was not being able to look at him while speaking. In addition whenever he spoke, Edan would talk back to him. Actually it was a lot of fun, when they achieved the results they wanted they had quite a sense of satisfaction. Edan joked that in the script he had to sass Ronald, so he was not nervous at all. In addition they have worked together on CHILLI LAUGH STORY, he already treated him like Dad so he had no worry. Instead he would make suggestions. Would they get into their mood of dispute and deliberately make no exchange on the set? They chuckled and said, "Absolutely not! We were still laughing before the cameras rolled." Edan revealed that Ronald was still telling bad jokes during rehearsal, but as soon as the production began he would be in the mood. Ronald also said that in comparison to CHILLI LAUGH STORY, this time from working with Edan he discovered another advantage: rhythm. Whether with talking, movement and hitting their marks they have done very well. "For example we shot some scenes when they weren't looking at each other, actually we were next to each other so we would see each other very easily. However Edan had no problem and was very accurate with his mark." Edan said that maybe he and Ronald were well matched, so they had chemistry.

Have they had "big blow outs" with their family in real life? Edan admitted definitely, because in front of his family he would let his realest emotion erupt the easiest. "Ultimately young people and the previous generation would have a little generation gap and different ideas, sometimes maybe our ideas are different, when our tone isn't good the more we talk the madder we get. Then it turns into an argument. (How would you fix that?) When I was little I would write 'sorry' notes and slip it between the door into my parents' room; as an adult, maybe after a day or two everyone would pretend nothing happened. The magic of family is no matter how we argue, in the end we are fine." Ronald said that when he was young, he would argue over the smallest things with his family. For example his friends' curfews were 11:30 PM but he had to leave at 10PM. If he got home late then arguments would ensue. Now he is father, he understood that children had to follow discipline training from the start. "For example now when they have school, they had to be in bed at 9:30 PM. Even if they aren't asleep they still have to be in bed and turn off the light. I know they don't like it, but at least they know there is discipline."

When asked how he would get along with his children, Ronald said that they would talk about anything and everything. "When I was little, Papa was very busy with work so we rarely talked. When I became Papa, I especially valued talking with my children and understanding what they are thinking." Ronald admitted that he was both a strict and a kind father. In politeness and responsibilities he would be stricter, but when he played he could be very crazy. "I wasn't allowed to jump on the bed at home, now when my wife isn't home I would 'fight' with the children in bed for 5 minutes. (Have the children inherited your sense of humor?) No, they are more interested in music, but they really like to listen to jokes."

Their new film OVER MY DEAD BODY talked about the mortgage issue. Has Edan had any plan of buying homes like his group mate Keung To? He said that right now he has a place to live, so for now he would not have such an idea. In addition home prices are truly too high. "I have thought about moving, hoping for the whole family to move into a bigger place. However if I buy the number really is astronomical. If you ask me I would rather rent." He said that instead of putting all the money on the home, he might as well invest it. Perhaps he might make enough from investments to cover the rent. Has Ronald already made preparation for his children, so they would not have to worry about a home in the future? He said, "No, if you want a home they would have to buy their own. (Do you feel this generation of children would have a tough time?) That would depend on what they need. If they want to buy a home, I can help them set a financial plan. Actually now I am already doing that. When they do chores at home, I would reward them. If they don't finish they lose money."

Edan in the film had to drink his sorrow. He said that was a harder scene to play because after he got drunk he had a lot of dialogue. In order to be closer to the condition, he asked the team to buy him a bottle of whiskey. However after two shots he still felt nothing. He joked, "My tolerance isn't bad, I haven't been blacked out drunk or unconscious. I never even puked from it, but normally I wouldn't drink a lot. I might be born with the tolerance." Ronald said that becoming a father he drank less, usually at celebrations or birthdays he would had one or two drinks. He even turned down friends to go drinking. Edan praised Ronald for being a family man, as he constantly talked about his children.

[2023.03.17] OVER MY DEAD BODY HOLDS ITS WORLD PREMIERE IN OSAKA

courtesy of mingpao.com

The Ho Cheuk Tin directed, Teresa Mo Shun Kwan, Ronald Cheng Chung Kei, Edan Lui Cheuk On, Jer Lau Ying Ting and Wong Yau Nam starred dark comedy film OVER MY DEAD BODY (SEI SI SEI SI SEI SUP SEI) became the 18th Osaka Asian Film Festival opening film. Two nights ago it held its world premiere in Osaka. Ho Cheuk Tin and Wong Yau Nam flew there to attend and meet with the audience.

Ho Cheuk Tin said that the audience reaction was more passionate than he expected. Actually the Japanese viewers really liked some of the comedy spots that he thought only Hong Kong viewers would understand, which he never would have guessed. In addition they truly laughed all through the entire show. He and Yau Nam were both very happy. Yau Nam after the show received many requests for autographs and photos from viewers. He said, "The live atmosphere was great, the audience was very passionate. After the show many viewers asked me and the directors for pictures and autographs. One viewer even took out my first movie's video for me to autograph and asked us to go to Japan more. I really am very happy."

[2023.03.17] RICHIE JEN SCOPES OUT "HIS" BARBECUE SHOP

As soon as Richie Jen arrives in Hong Kong, he rushes over to survey "his" barbecue shop and even treats Philp Ng and Kenny Wong to roast goose legs.
 courtesy of mingpao.com

Media Asia films used its heavyweight film TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN (GAU LUNG SING JAI: WAI SING) as the blueprint for this year's Hong Kong International Film and Television Market (FILMART) 2023 exhibit. The star store front signs have become a hot spot for photos. One of the leads Richie Jen (Yam Yin Chai) two days ago arrived in Hong Kong and rushed to the Convention Center to check out the business at the "Richie Jen barbecue restaurant" on the set. He played manager for a day and brought hot and fresh roast goose legs for his two co-stars Kenny Wong Tak Bun and Philip Ng Won Lung. The trio traversed in the narrow alleys of the set and even posed for photos at the prop mahjong tables. They also posed for photos with film producer John Chong Ching on the set.

Siu Chai praised the exhibit as very interesting. He said, "Media Asia films brought back the 70s and 80s Kowloon Walled City's environment, structures, ways of life with authenticity. The film TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN would have a lot of exciting action scenes, as well as brotherhood and many stories connecting it. I look forward to its release very much."

Siu Chai saw the barbecue shop with his name, which brought back the delicious memories of when he first came to make movies in Hong Kong. He said, "My first knowledge of the Hong Kong cuisine culture wasn't the push cart dim sum but Hong Kong's barbecue, roast pork, roast goose, roast duck and sausages. For me they are memorable Hong Kong flavors."

Siu Chai even compared cuisine cooking to the effort of film industry cast and crew. He said, "An entertaining movie is just like cooking, a good director is the chef, actors are the ingredients, workers are like seasoning and cooking temperature. Everyone worked hard to cook a rich film feast." He also joked, "When I first went from singing to making movies they were all romance, my image was great. Yet since joining Media Asia Films, I made an 180 degree turn. I played robbers, villains and serious subject characters. From BREAKING NEWS (DAI SI GEIN) to THE SNIPER (SUN CHEUNG SAU), there were very, very many. There was also TRIVISA (SHU DAI JIU FUNG). The most recent is TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN. Thank you to the company for giving me the destiny to come in contact with many good directors, good actors and persistent teams, so I would have even more understanding of film and growth."

Yesterday Siu Chai was already in Macau for two show concert series.

[2023.03.17] NICHOLAS TSE SHIELDS CYA LIU FROM EXPLOSION

Cya Liu has a lot of action scenes

Nicholas Tse carries a car door to shield Cya Liu
courtesy of on.cc

The Nicholas Tse Ting Fung and Cya Liu starred film CUSTOMS FRONTLINE (HOI GUAN JIN SIN)'s production highlight has been unveiled. Cya revealed that Ting Fung in the film had many action scenes, behind the scenes he contributed more than imagined. In one explosion scene, Ting Fung carried a car door to shield Cya as they ran. He admitted that he worried about actresses getting hurt. Because with the slightest mishap Cya's face would hit the ground. Cya said, "Because I was with him, it's safer."

Ting Fung personally performed a scene in which he caught fire. He said, "When I risk my life I can answer to the audience, and I can live up to my profession even more."