Friday, March 31, 2023

[2023.04.01] JER LAU FEELS LUCKY TO LEAVE THE "SALTED FISH GAME"

Jer Lau says the song's rhythm is very hard to grasp, near the end he even has to reach for the high notes
courtesy of mingpao.com

MIRROR member Jer Lau Ying Ting participated in the film OVER MY DEAD BODY (SEI SI SEI SI SEI SUP SEI) and performed the theme song SALTED FISH GAME. Working with lyricist Wyman Wong for the first time, he sang the helplessness of Hong Kong people who turned into "salted fish" in order to buy a home. In the lyrics "salted fish" referred to the modern city people who were only busy at work. While working hard to pay off their homes they often forgot their dreams. Jer said, "When I go the lyrics I felt very surprised, the 'salted fish' in the song reminded people a famous line in a (Stephen) Chow Sing Chi movie, 'If people have no dream in life, how are they any different from salted fishes'. I felt that Wyman wanted to remind the modern city people, not to continue to live in this type of condition. Like me, if you like to sing and dance then do it, don't be someone without any flesh or blood."

Jer felt that the challenge of singing this song was rather large, because the tempo was very hard to grasp. He spent about two days before he was able to catch it accurately. The song had many half steps, the last part even had to reach high notes. In the end the singing had to go very far. "It's like using the last of the strength to singing out the message of the song." The line, "all salted fish, be fresh once again" was the entire song's theme, like it wanted to wake up people who were asleep to find something that their hearts longed for. He said, "When I sang it I was really able to get into the mood. I have liked to sing since I was little, I have experienced days of being a salted fish. My first job wasn't one that I liked, at the time in order to make a living for the family and pay the mortgage, everyday I worked like a cog. Luckily in the end I ran into a competition that changed my destiny, and I finally was able to leave this 'Salted Fish Game'."

[2023.04.01] ANSON LO QUESTIONS "FAN EXODUS"

Anson Lo started out in dance, so of course dance music poses no difficulty for him

Anson Lo, Ian Chan and Edan Lui each pose with a figure

Keung To returned to Hong Kong two nights ago.  Over 50 fans welcomed him at the airport.

Anson Lo
courtesy of on.cc

courtesy of singtao.com

Anson Lo dances for a cartoon character

Edan Lui denies the goal of going to perform overseas is to attract more fans
courtesy of mingpao.com

Anson Lo and Edan Lui Cheuk On yesterday attended an event. Just returning from Japan, Anson Lo said that shooting all night in Japan was rather tough. Luckily he was able to get half a day off to shop like crazy for stress relief. Speaking of the group's rumored "fan exodus", they along with other MIRROR members in May would perform in Malaysia to attract "new fans" outside Hong Kong!

Guy group MIRROR's Anson Lo and Keung To two nights ago returned from Japan, with almost 100 fans at the airport to welcome them. Anson Lo saw fans, stopped to greet them and met heart gestures. Keung To got into his vehicle in seconds.

The next day Anson Lo, Edan and Ian appeared at a theme park event. Speaking of Anson Lo and Edan working on their film DOH YUET JEH in Japan, the former revealed that the schedule was very tight. "Most of the film would be at night, we shot from 6PM to before dawn. Going all night was tough." Luckily he had half a time out of the tight production schedule for shopping, but Edan asked, "Really half a day? Wasn't it more than half a day?" Anson Lo explained, "Earlier I had one day that wasn't as crazy, that half a day was crazier. I really bought stuff on that half a day. (How much did you spend?) I didn't count, money isn't everything. The amount wouldn't be too big." Speaking of DOH's director Steve Yuen Kim Fai being accused of plagiarism in his music video, Edan said, "I didn't directly ask him, during the shoot I didn't want to affect his mood. I saw him keep working so he was probably OK."

In addition, the two and their group mates in May will be at a concert in Malaysia, hoping to have the chance to meet with fans there and introduce MIRROR to even more people. Was it due to the recent "fan exodus" that they wanted to explore the overseas market? Anson Lo asked whether the "exodus" was real or fake. "I haven't been paying special attention to any loss." Edan said, "It's not because of that we are going to other places to bring in fans, we aren't that amazing. I wouldn't feel if I go to another place I would be able to, I am not that great."

As for fans who were upset that the May Hong Kong fan meet's fees and arrangements, were they worried that the negative news would cause the "exodus? Anson Lo admitted, "For fan meets of course the more people the better, the greater the venue the better, but we have a lot of restrictions. It's not something those in our position would be able to resolve." Edan would like to see all of the fans the most and no one would need to spend too much. "I hope in the future the company could buy a very large venue."

[2023.04.01] IAN CHAN RESPECTS JJ LIN 100% DESPITE UNFOLLOWING HIM ONLINE

Ian Chan says that he only follows on social media people he has met in person or worked with 
courtesy of on.cc

courtesy of singtao.com


Ian Chan says that he did not unfollow JJ Lin out of disrespect, just that reality and online are two different matter

Sammi Cheng grabs Ian Chan by the arm for a photo 

Sammi Cheng says that inviting the entire group of MIRROR to be her concert guest performers again would be tough

Kayan9896 does not dare to ask Ian Chan to be in her music video because she is afraid that he would steal her spotlight
courtesy of mingpao.com

Sammi Cheng Sau Man, Ian Chan Cheuk Yin, Kayan9896 (Jeannie Ng Ka Yan), Angus Yeung Tin Yue, Elly Lam Sum Yee and others two nights go attended a fashion label's pop up concept store opening ceremony. Sammi said that she would not mind the challenge of any look; as for her husband Andy Hui Chi On's return to the stage, she would be fully supportive and said that she was able to see On Jai did all his homework for this performance. Speaking of the Hong Kong Film Awards being half a month away, Sammi revealed that she still has not prepared what to wear because she had to finish the jobs on her hand first. Later she would have to fly overseas, so she would leave the task to her image designer.

Would she have time to prepare for her summer concerts? Sammi revealed that the preparation was heating up. She was considering the stage concept, the rundown and the guest list. Would she invite MIRROR to guest perform again? She said getting all 12 would probably be very hard, since each of them would be busy on their own. Looking back at the collaboration 4 years ago, it was indeed very valuable and rare. Whether colleagues or rising singers, guest presenters were all very valuable to her.

Speaking of On Jai returning to the stage for the first time after the "On Sum Incident", he would participate in the April 1st Leslie Cheung Kwok Wing memorial concert. As his wife has she given him any support? Sammi said, "Actually everyday together is mutual support. As for how to face the crowd and perform on the stage, I couldn't help. He would rely on himself, but I am able to see that he has done his homework fully for this performance."

Ian at the event ran into Sammi and Sammi even wrapped her arm around his, which made him happy like crazy. He said, "My hands are really shaking, I am really very happy. After being her concert guests years go, we haven't seen each other in a very long time. (Would you offer to be her summer concert guest?) I really want to! I would clear my schedule for that, because I am truly very grateful for the opportunity Sister Sammi gave MIRROR several years ago."

Ian spoke for the first time about what happened earlier at the JJ Lin concert. He admitted that he rehearsed but in the end it did not happen. It was a misunderstanding in communication, which was very regrettable because being a guest performer for a singer like JJ was a very rare opportunity that he looked forward to. He also felt very excited and kept preparing hard for it. However he thought that everything was fate, and he looked forward to the next time they would have the opportunity to work together. As for accusation that he stopped following JJ on social media because he was mad, he explained that he only followed people he has met in person or people he has worked with. At first he thought that they would work together so he followed him. It was a habit and no disrespect was intended. He stressed that online and reality were two different matter. In addition, fans were rumored to be upset at MIRROR's official meeting fees and quota, Ian said that he was not sure about the arrangement but thank fans for their endless love. He also blew kisses to the fans on hand. However fans reportedly were upset that the 12 were hardly ever together and an exodus has begun, Ian although has not heard the rumor either said that privately the members have all expressed hope to the company for more opportunities for the entire group to be together. They were even willing to reduce their individual events.

[2023.04.01] MIKE TSANG CLAIMS THAT HE IS NO MATCH FOR LESLIE CHEUNG

Mike Tsang likes Leslie Cheung SOMEONE WITH HEART the most
courtesy of on.cc


Mike Tsang

Andrew Yuen, Candy Cheung (Man Suet Yee)
courtesy of mingpao.com

Mike Tsang Pei Tak, Candy Cheung (Man Suet Yee), Andrew Yuen Man Kit, internationally renowned designer Alan Chan Yu-chien and choreographer Chris Choi yesterday attended the "Timeless Leslie Encounter" forum and remembered "Gor Gor" Leslie Cheung Kwok Wing on the 20th anniversary of his passing with "Gor" fans. Tsang Pei Tak performed Gor Gor's song WHO CAN RELATE and said that the first time he came in contact with Gor Gor's film was watching his film ROUGE in secondary school. At the time because he was young he only thought the color and the story were very pretty. After growing up he finally understood what Gor Gor and Sister Mui (Anita Mui Yim Fong)'s characters were thinking in the story.

When Tsang Pei Tak spoke with the media, he said that his remake of WHO CAN RELATE has had many new arrangements and an interpretation from a new angle with electronic style; remaking Gor Gor's song certainly was stressful because it was too classic. He hoped that no one would not make any comparison whether they would like it or not, mainly it was a tribute. He said that before getting into the business he has always sung Gor Gor's songs, especially his favorite SOMEONE WITH HEART, which was also a must sing song when he was a wedding singer. He continued to learn from the elders and Gor Gor's interviews that Gor Gor was a very professional person who would put 100% passion into his work, but privately he was also a fun and playful person. When everyone spoke of Gor Gor, they would always have a smile on their faces. He sensed Gor Gor's magic and charm that was able to affect those around him. He hoped that he would be able to do that as well.

Gor Gor's friend and internationally renowned designer Chan Yu-Chen in the 80s designed many album covers and promotional posters for Gor Gor. The SIDE VIEW album cover photo sample that he designed for Gor Gor was on display at Olympian City. Yesterday he even brought the STAND UP record to share with everyone. "I designed Gor Gor's image for many years, after working together many times he gradually suggested even more ideas to me. Gor Gor had great taste, a very tasteful superstar. The communication and collaboration between us have always been very pleasant, to this day I still miss his charisma."

Turning from colleagues to good friends with Gor Gor, Candy Cheung (Man Suet Yee) also spoke about her time with Gor Gor in her youth and brought a handbag that Gor Gor gave her. "I have known Gor Gor since 1978, when we worked together on THE SPIRIT OF THE SWORD (YUEN FA SAI GIM LOK). At the time a group of young people after work would go to one of their homes for a pot luck party. Occasionally they would also meet to play mahjong. How well Gor Gor treated us would always remain in my heart."

Chris Choi was Gor Gor's concert choreographer. He mentioned that Gor Gor at work was very serious and cautious, seeking perfection in each performance. He did not want to give any room for others to criticize him, but Gor Gor privately also had his tender side. "Gor Gor would remember my birthday, for three years in a row he gave the same series of crystal -- which was quite a pleasant surprise for me." Gor Gor's birthday present crystal series to Chris was also in this exhibition.

Thursday, March 30, 2023

[2023.03.31] EDAN LUI IS UPSET BY MIRROR FAN EXODUS

Edan Lui despite having a massive fan presence at his film premiere admits to fan exodus

MIRROR

Dee Ho

Keung To takes a group photo with the crew while working in Japan
courtesy of on.cc

Edan Lui admits that they have to do better and smarter

Keung To takes a photo with the crew, including Leo Ku's wife Lorraine (right), in front of Tokyo Tower
courtesy of singtao.com


Edan Lui attends the OVER MY DEAD BODY premiere as fans fill the shopping center

Teresa Mo praises Edan Lui for having a high Emotional Quotient and working very hard

Ronald Cheng would remain in Hong Kong for audience appreciation events during Easter 

Dee jokes that not many people like ERROR, so he is not afraid of a fan exodus fever

Edan Lui says that MIRROR would be in a variety program on full force
courtesy of mingpao.com

With fans seemingly all over Hong Kong, the popular guy group MIRROR has surprisingly turned into "abandoned". As the Hong Kong pandemic prevention measures eased, after 3 years of suppression the Korean stream struck Hong Kong ferociously. In addition some claimed that due to MIRROR's lack of improvement and freshness, the group recently suffered from "fan exodus" and even "MIRROR fans" selling their ware online. Edan Lui Cheuk On two nights while attending a film premiere admitted that he has personally witnessed "fan exodus". "It's a personal choice, I hope they would like me back later."

Just returned from Japan, MIRROR member Edan two nights ago attended his film OVER MY DEAD BODY (SEI SI SEI SI SEI SUP SEI)'s premiere. As expected he had a massive fan presence. As for claims that the Korean stream striking Hong Kong and causing MIRROR's popularity to decline, Edan said, "I am not sure, everyone would have more choices. Now it's time to let us know we would have to work harder. I too want to see BLACKPINK and Eric Chou, but I am very mad that I have to work and couldn't. It' s still good, everyone can more different stuff. They are very sharp, so we have to do better, perform better. (Some fans have 'backed out'?) This is their personal choice, if after a long time, they don't like us as much it's no problem. Feelings are beyond our control. If they feel we haven't worked harder enough, talented enough, then we have to work harder. If I see fans leave, indeed I would be a little upset. I can only wish that later they would like me back."

Edan admitted that he has witnessed his fan backing out. He said, "Once in awhile I would see people say they wouldn't follow me anymore. I don't know about the number, but they are very kind and benevolent, they wouldn't deliberately tell us they are backing out. (Some said that it's because MIRROR are constantly less than complete?) All 12 together has been fewer, because we have our own jobs. I hope to have a group variety program coming up. It's being planned. Everyone would have to wait a little." Earlier he and member Anson Lo Hon Ting while working in Japan shared a photo together but was blasted for taking advantage of their previous roles. He rarely struck back. He said, "I wasn't opening fire, everyone was in discussion with reason. For artists finding a balance is very hard. Peole can gauge us very easily. Artists are people too. When you see something wrong you have to learn to protect yourself, not to yell, get mad, start a war of words. I want to bring out some facts and reasons, do I need so many negative attacks?"

Also attending the premiere was ERROR member Dee Ho Kai Wa. He joked that he was not supporting Edan. "Edan isn't trendy anymore!" As for the MIRROR fan exodus fever, he said, "This is each person's freedom, if you like them you would keep liking them. If you don't then you wouldn't." (Is ERROR afraid?) I of course am not, not that many people like me to start with, now that more people like me, I have already defeated the me yesterday." Starring in OVER, Teresa Mo Shun Kwan had confidence in "sonny" Edan. She felt that MIRROR has always worked very hard. "I haven't seen this situation at all, when I come in just now, when Sonny (Edan) appeared it was like an earthquake."

The film site "Hong Kong Movie" organized 6th HONG KONG MOVIE AWARDS after the first round of voting has its nominees out of 27 qualifying Hong Kong films. The second round voting will take place from March 30th to April 12th. The results would be announced on April 13th. This year the voting was very fierce. Teresa Mo Shun Kwan with two nominations would compete with Sammi Cheng Sau Man for Best Actress. Louis Cheung Kai Chung received two nominations for Best Supporting Actor and Best Actor.

This time the Best Actress competition has been exceptionally exciting. Mo Shun Kwan with MAMA'S AFFAIR and HONG KONG FAMILY received two nominations. Changing her genre, the Best Actress favorite Cheng Sau Man was nominated for LOST LOVE's "Auntie Tin Mei". Two publicly recognized strong actresses, each wiht their unique "Ma" roles. Their performance also had their own difficulties.

Hong Kong Film Award Best Actress nominee and Hong Kong Film Critic Society Award Best Actress Cheng Sau Man received a Best Actress nomination. She sid, "I sincerely thank every vote that nominated us. We would continue to work hard, work hard on making good movies, good music, good characters."

At the Awards, Best Actor nominees included Keung To (MAMA'S AFFAIR), Edan Lui Cheuk On (CHILLI LAUGH STORY), Mak Pui Tung (THE SPARRING PARTNER), Louis Cheung Kai Chung (THE NARROW ROAD) and Dayo Wong Tze Wa (TABLE FOR SIX). Nominated for Best Supporting Actor with TABLE FOR SIX and Best Actor with THE NARROW ROAD, Cheung Kai Chung said, "Of course I am very happy, and hope that everyone would vote. Last year, Hong Kong film has had many outstanding work. I am very honored to be able to compete with other actors."

Keung To was also nominated for MAMA'S theme song RAIN OR SHINE in the new category Best Original Film Song; another MIRROR member Edan with HONG KONG FAMILY and other films was nominated for Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, Best New Actor and for the theme song ANT THAT CLIMBS THE STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN. With 5 nominations Edn became the most nominated actor this year. Last year's Best New Actor Anson Lo Hon Ting this year with HONG KONG FAMILY was nominated for Best Supporting Actor.

Best Director nominee Kearen Pang Sau Wai thanked everyone who voted this movie. "I am very happy that MAMA'S has different nominations. This year has many outstanding Hong Kong films, whether moviet tickets or votes are hard to come by. Our team cherished them very much. At the same time I hope everyone would continue to support different types of Hong Kong films."

TABLE FOR SIX also received 9 nominations, director Sunny Chan Wing Sun received Best Director and Best New Director nominations. He was happy. "The most important for a movie are viewers, so I have to give special thanks to every voter and viewer for their support. Because performing a comedy is really very hard, they have given us even more power to make even more comedies for everyone for enjoy. I hope everyone would continue to support us."

HONG KONG FAMILY also received 9 nominations. Best Director and Best New Director nominee Eric Tsang Hing Weng was happy about being nominated and thanked the MOVIE6 voters. Tsang Hing Weng said, "I am especially happy that HONG KONG FAMILY received the Best Film nomination, which is a recognition for our team production team!"

[2023.03.31] FIFTH YEAR FILM FESTIVAL AMBASSADOR AARON KWOK LOOKS TO GO OUT ON TOP

Peter Chan Charm Man and Gordon Lam

Aaron Kwok is the Hong Kong International Film Festival ambassador for the fifth year.  

Aaron Kwok, Sean Lau and Louis Koo in their new film
courtesy of on.cc

Lokman Yeung

Aaron Kwok plans to celebrate his daughter's birthday with the family

Lokman Yeung thanks Gordon Lam for his advice, from which he benefit tremendously
courtesy of mingpao.com

The 47th Hong Kong International Film Festival last night opened at the Hong Kong Cultural Center. The Soi Cheang Pou Soi directed MAD FATE (MING ONG)'s Asian premiere and the Ann Hui On Wa directed ELEGIES world premiere were the opening films.

The opening ceremony guests included MAD FATE director Cheang Pou Soi, producer Elaine Chu Suk Yee, producer and screenwriter Yau Nai Hoi, screenwriter Li Chun Fai, stars Gordon Lam Ka Tung, Lokman Yeung, Ng Wing Sze, Berg Ng Ting Yip, Peter Chan Charm Man, Bonnie Wong Man Wai, Birdy Wong Ching Yan and Pancy Chan Pui Si. ELEGY director Hui On Wa also attended the forum with the two poets in the film Wong Chan Yin and Liu Wai Tong.

Already the international film festival ambassador for a fifth year, Kwok Fu Sing said that he had many memorable experience. He felt that after this year he could retire on top, but earlier due to the pandemic the event was halted for a year and streamed online for another. With the return to a physical film festival this year, he felt that the team put in a lot of effort and was very professional. He said, "Because earlier it had no way of taking place, the team held a state of mind of doing as much as they could instead of being disillusioned. This spirit is worth commending, like being used on my own life and work concepts. Doing as much as you can, it is very close to this year's event slogan 'Never Stop'. I wish this year's film festival a successful completion!"

Sing Sing just finished a part of his world tour and returned to Hong Kong to attend the film festival opening ceremony. He said that he was very happy, because over the pandemic in the past three years, aside from the charity concert he has not performed on the stage. This year as the pandemic passed, he returned to normal and launched his world concert tour again. Earlier he went to Atlantic City, Las Vegas, Chicago and Toronto and performed four shows. Because he has not seen fans for too long, everyone was very passionate. He also revealed that later he would perform in Singapore, Malaysia and Macau. Later he would work on another film, now he has several scripts in discussion. His Hong Kong concert series will take place next year, and it will be an all new concert.

He also said that because of school, his daughters did not follow him on tour. However while performing in North America, he video chatted with his wife and daughters everyday. When he would perform in Macau in July he probably would be able to bring them. How would he celebrate Easter? He said that Easter happens to be his second daughter's birthday, "but I would have a party. Mainly it would be family fun, Papa and Mama want to give their children a happy birthday."

Sing Sing said that he would remain very busy after returning to Hong Kong, he would have to work on movie post productions, record songs, and provide his voice to a film. This time the director asked him to provide his voice personally, because Putonghua was not his strong suit and in the film his character had to speak it very fluent and colloquially, he needed to find a Putonghua instructor to instruct him. In the past he had a voice actor whose voice was very similar to his, but he did not feel well recently. Thus he agreed to the director's request. Sing Sing joked that he has become addicting to voice acting, because when he listened to his Putonghua it sounded very different. He believed that the audience would hear it and feel even more realism. Thus in the future he hoped to try to provide his own voice, which he felt was pretty fun and was a type of learning for him. Has he asked his wife Moka Fang to correct his Putonghua. He joked that his daughters' Putonghua was better than his. "My daughter even teaches me back, 'Papa, that's not how you say that.' Now after learning, I even communicate better with my daughters."

In addition, Sing Sing, Louis Koo Tin Lok and Sean Lau Ching Wan starred in THE WHITE STORM 3: HEAVEN OR HELL (SO DUK 3: YUN JOI TIN NGAI) yesterday released its 36 second teaser. The trio in the film chatted on a yacht, behind their smiles each had his own ideas.

Lam Ka Tung was asked about MAD FATE's producer Chu Suk Yee's claim that he did not consider the salary when he took the role. Ka Tung joked that it was a long time ago, so there was not much to talk about. In addition he has not participated in a Milky Way Image movie in a very long time, a good script was hard to find and after running Cheang Pou Soi, he could talk about the money later. Did he invest his salary in the film too? Ka Tung said, "I invested my heart and energy, as for whether I took a salary I would leave that for later. (Would you share in the fruit of the labor later?) It's like bicycle sharing, the most important is good word of mouth. Because the movie has many new actors and the subject is murder, and since To Sir (Johnnie To Kei Fung) asked, I couldn't refuse." However, he admitted that this production has been very tough. One of the scenes took over 30 takes. He had to scream with all his might for the performance. He screamed too much that even his voice was hoarse. In addition this character was silly and crazy, which made it even harder to play. The film would be released in April. Would he have any confidence in the box office performance? He said, "I hope viewers would like it, I really haven't worked with Milky Way Image in many years. This time can be considered a reunion, like going to Wudang Mountain to absorb the magical energy. I would work harder in my performance." He also said that not every movie could get him not to discuss money, if the production resources were poor but the script was good then he would support the film a little. With ample production resources he would take his normal rate. He has always supported film and felt that he had the responsibility to take care of newcomers.

MIRROR captain Lokman Yeung said that the film was shot in 2019 and participated in many film festival. To be able to work with Milky Way Image, Cheang Pou Soi and Lam Tung on a movie, he was very happy and took the opportunity to learn from everyone. He admitted that at first he was a little afraid of Ka Tung out of respect, as his presence was like a mountain. By the middle of the production he finally dared to ask him for advice. Lam was very willing to share with others and would correct his shortcomings.

Recently rumored to be slipping in popularity, MIRROR appeared to have a fan resignation fever. As the captain he said, "Sometimes it's because you love too deeply. I really thank fans for their love, but love has many different types. Some are love that you hold on tightly to, some you let go, sometimes you should distance yourself a little farther to see, coming out and going in sometimes are pretty fun too. (Have you been upset?) Maybe I feel fans love too much, which gets me very frustrated. This has a lot of factors, some fans love one, some love many. They also want us to have more opportunities to develop, when we have less jobs they feel bad for us. So they should let go a little. MIRROR wants to bring positive energy to everyone." As for the official fan club being accused of making poor arrangements and grabbing money, Lokman Yeung pointed out that he would see everyone's reaction. If the fan response data would be large, he would feel that they would need to make a little adjustment. However where he has been working late he had no phone reception, thus he has not paid attention to fan reaction. He also said, "If it is too money grabbing, we would reflect that to the company."

Wednesday, March 29, 2023

[2023.03.30] TERESA MO PICKS ANGELA YUEN TO WIN

Teresa Mo praises the new generation of actresses are all eye opening

Angela Yuen's performance receives good reviews
courtesy of on.cc

Sammi Cheng
courtesy of singtao.com

Anthony Wong and Sean Lau's acting skills are beyond any doubt

Louisa So and Sammi Cheng
courtesy of mingpao.com

The 41st Hong Kong Film Awards will take place on April 16th at the Hong Kong Cultural Center. The organizer, the Hong Kong Film Awards Association yesterday released the Best Actor and Best Actress nominees' photos. The 2018 Hong Kong Film Award Best Actress Teresa Mo Shun Kwan, who won with the film TOMORROW IS ANOTHER DAY, returned to the battlefield 5 years later. This time she is nominated for the Emperor Motion Picture MAMA'S AFFAIR (AH MA YAU JOR DAI YI GOR) opposite Louisa So Yuk Wa, Angela Yuen Lai Lam and the current Golden Horse Award Best Actress Sylvia Chang. In Mo Shun Kwan's eyes, several opponents are all people of substance. Even Yuen Lai Lam who is lacking in experience also gives a divine performance. She admitted that she has been paying attention to the rising new comers in film in recent years. "Girls are especially sharp. Yuen Lai Lam's acting is very natural. (Jennifer) Yu Heung Ying has variety, and can play both rebellious and very nice. (Louise) Wong Dan Nei really is very successful. (Hedwig) Tam Sin Yin too. They are all top notch, so I wouldn't have to worry about actors."

Speaking of her MAMA'S performance, Mo Shun Kwan felt that it was somewhat similar to her TOMORROW role. Both have sons and face with cheating husbands, only the two films are absolutely different in their style and handling of relationship . She said, "I feel this time is more reserved, handling wise it has been very harder. However the audience is affected even more, hence this movie is more worthy of winning an award."

Already with a Best Actress award in her hand, was she ambitious about winning this time? She made a comparison with mahjong. "I feel anyone who sits down at the mahjong table doesn't want to lose money, of course they want to win. however this time my state of mind is much more relaxed, but I believe in Yuen Lai Lam's performance. If she would win I believe I would applaud very hard."

Best Actor would be a competition between academics, THE SUNNY SIDE OF THE STREET (BAK YUT CHING CHUN)'s Anthony Wong Chau Sun, THE NARROW ROAD (JAK LO MEI CHUN)'s Louis Cheung Kai Chung, and THE SPARRING PARTNER (JING YI WUI LONG)'s double nominees Yeung Wai Lun and Mak Pui Tung -- four Academy for Performing Arts graduates, and DETECTIVE VS. SLEUTHS (SUN TAM DAI JING)'s Sean Lau Ching Wan who started at the TVB artist training class. The two time Best Actor Lau Ching Wan earlier with DETECTIVE received the Hong Kong Film Directors' Guild Best Actor and got a shot of confidence for his third Hong Kong Film Award Best Actor race.

Wong Chau Sun with THE SUNNY SIDE OF THE STREET won the Golden Horse Award Best Actor. THE NARROW ROAD 's Cheung Kai Chun won the Hong Kong Film Critic Society Best Actor. Mak Pui Tung at the 16th Asian Film Awards won Best New Performer. Yeung Wai Lun in THE SPARRING PARTNER played a murderer of both parents. His resemblance to the figure the role was based on received praises from the defense attorney of the case.

Among the Best Actress nominees, 4 were playing mothers in their roles, including MAMA'S AFFAIR's Sister Mo, LOST LOVE (LAU SHUI LOK FA)'s Sammi, THE NARROW ROAD's Yuen Lai Lam and A LIGHT NEVER GOES OUT (DUN FOR LAN SHAN)'s Sister Chang. They would battle THE SPARRING PARTNER's veteran lawyer Louisa So Yuk Wa. Sister Chang with LIGHT won the Golden Horse Award Best Actress. Sammi with LOST won the Hong Kong Film Critic Society and the Hong Kong Film Directors' Guild Best Actress.

Tuesday, March 28, 2023

[2023.03.29] FOR THE WEEK ENDING SUNDAY, MARCH 26 2023

For the week ending Sunday, March 26 2023

HIDDEN BLADE POSTER

10 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...

DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS: HONOR AMONG THIEVES POSTER

  9 DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS: HONOR AMONG THIEVES
    d. John Francis Daley, Jonathan Goldstein
    Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez, Rege-Jean Page, Justice Smith,
      Sophia Lillis, Hugh Grant, Chloe Coleman, Daisy Head

LOST LOVE POSTER

  8 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.

THE WHALE POSTER

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

CYBERHEIST POSTER

  6 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.

A GUILTY CONSCIENCE POSTER

  5 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?

EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE POSTER

  4 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.

SHAZAM! FURY OF THE GODS POSTER

  3 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

SUZUME POSTER

  2 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.


JOHN WICK CHAPTER 4 POSTER

  1 JOHN WICK CHAPTER 4
    d. Chad Stahelski
    Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Lance Reddick, Clancy Brown,
      Ian McShane, Bill Skarsgard, Donnie Yen, Hiroyuki Sanada,
      Shamier Anderson, Rina Sawayama,