Li Linlin returns to acting after 30 years. She says she is afraid of being left behind, so she is very teachable.
courtesy of singtao.com
Away from film for more than 30 years, Li Linlin once
again "came back" to play the female lead in the movie ALL SHALL BE
WELL (CHUNG GUM YI HAU). Sister Linlin even played a rare lesbian
role, with her co-star Patra Au Ka Man she played a couple who have
been together for decades. When filming a kiss scene, Sister Linlin
even threw down her shackles and kissed hard.
SUK SUK's director Ray Yeung Yiu Hoi cast Li Linlin and Patra
Au Ka Man to play the gay couple. The story was about two people who
have lived together for decades. Unfortunately, one of them suddenly
passed way. In addition to the pain of losing her partner, the
remaining person had to face the pressure from her partner's family
over funeral arrangements and attempts to fight for inheritance.
Li Linlin has not acted for more than 30 years, how did Yeung
Yiu Hoi think of inviting her to perform? Yeung Yiu Hoi said that he
has always wanted to find an actor with a strong presence and aura to
play the role of Pat. He laughed and said that he had seen her
character in FIVE EASY PIECES, where she was independent, tomboyish,
fresh and modern; disguised as a boy she was not look too fake,
stylish yet feminine. She really felt like Pat. Thus he approached her
through John Chiang Dai Wai. Li Linlin said that after reading the
ALL script, she was also very drawn to the story. In addition the
genre was unique and brought out a positive message. Her husband
Chiang Dai Wai also encouraged her, so she agreed to perform. Acting
again after more than 30 years, Li Linlin admitted that she felt
nervous not about facing the camera, but that she was outdated. "I
was afraid that I was out, ultimately the performance methods then and
now are very different. Luckily the director would remind me, at
some spots I would have to take it easy, don't enunciate too clearly.
I've been teachable, haha."
Li Linlin and Au Ka Man had a kiss scene in the film. Li
Linlin said that the shoot was very natural and the atmosphere was
very good. "Although it was my first time working with Au Ka Man, she
was very dramatic and I really liked this woman. Originally it was
just a light kiss, but I thought it wasn't enough so I kissed her
harder with another. The shooting was originally done by a pond, but
due to the rain we moved the shoot to a pavilion. With the gray sky
it instead suited the atmosphere." Sister Linlin said that her
husband after watching the film praised it. She laughed and pointed
out that since they were both actors, they would understand that the
kiss scene was necessary for the plot. She joked, "If he feels it was
inappropriate he would be unprofessional!"
Best actor Nick Cheung Ka Fai recently brought the film
that directed and starred in, PEG O' MY HEART (SHOOK MUNG) to the
Udine Far East International Film Festival in Italy. The premiere was
well received by fans. Before leaving Udine, he, directors Herman
Yau Lai To and Sasha Chuk Chi Ngan attended a film festival symposium
and accepted interviews with European media. Someone asked him how he
felt about directing and starring himself. Cheung Ka Fai admitted that
it was very hard, but he also showed his humorous side; he joked that
since he was a "famous star", he had to arrange for himself to
perform.
Dada Chan gets into the fray from the get go with Philip Ng and Andy On
Dada works out regularly, so the action scene poses no difficulty for her courtesy of on.cc
Dada Chan Ching earlier worked overnight on a film with
two strong men Philip Ng Won Lung and Andy Tien (On Chi Kit). Despite
staying up she did not lose energy. Instead she put her acting on
display. During the fight scene shoot she "changed her face in one
second" from the kind mode instantly into a "mad woman", as she went
into a rage and fought. No wonder action director Ng Won Lung added
fight scenes for her as a "reward"!
Dada Chan Ching, Philip Ng Won Lung and Andy Tien (On
Chi Kit) earlier in Kai Tak worked on the action drama MO MING FOR
(NAMELESS FIRE). Despite two martial arts stars in the cast, Dada
stole a lot of the spotlight on the shoot that night. Because in the
scene Dada in order to help On Chi Kit, whose arms were secured by
Philip, she had to hit Philip hard with a bowling pin. The three
tested their marks before hand. Dada was afraid to hit Philip and
looked "sorry", needing Philip to tell her not to worry several times.
Then during the official shoot, the once Hong Kong Film Awards Best
Supporting Actress Dada got into character in a second. She strongly
hit Philip with a vicious look in her eyes. Then the three struggled.
Dada was thrown to the ground many times. Since she worked out
regularly, the action scene went very smoothly. In this tussle she
stole the spotlight from the two lead actors.
Dada stated that actually the action director Philip added the
scene on the spot. "In the film I get to both hit people and get hit,
but my character isn't a fighter. Only occasionally I would get into
it in some scenes." She said that because the scene was a last minute
addition, she was uncertain about a lot of the details. However she
trusted Philip 100% and was not afraid of getting hurt.
Speaking of the production, she said, "Earlier at the hospital
I had a scene that needed one straight take, I really like it. We
shot many takes because of camera angle switches. The whole shot was
around 2 minutes, it was a lot of fun but intense."
Dada kept accepting new challenges in her career, often
looking for breakthroughs. Romantically even though she has suitors,
she has not yet dated. Last year she once revealed that she would
like to freeze her eggs in the U.S.; but finally due to the complexity
of the process and the time consuming recovery period, she was worried
that her work would be affected. "Actually it isn't simple at all. I
inquired about it and it has a lot of requirements. So I would have
to consider it further. However if I would I would have to do it in
these few years. Now I have to think it through, a lot of stuff is up
in the air."
Philip this time in MO served many posts. He even took part in
its planning. As for his good friend On Chi Kit, he naturally had
endless praises. However this time actually he did not call in a
favor when inviting him, but he did so through the producer; because
he felt that even though they were close, personal and professional
should be clear cut. He felt that the most important was for the
collaboration to be pleasant. As for Dada, Ng Won Lung also
appreciated her very much. "As soon as Dada joined the team her first
scene was the film's ending. She had to run, struggle, act fully and
she was able to do them all. (She gave to have stolen the spotlight
in the scene just now!) Every actor is stealing the spotlight.
Actually this time every actor gets the full score. I of course am
the happiest!" He pointed out that this time the production has been
rather smooth. Although he once shot for over ten hours in a cramp
environment and appeared to have suffered a heat stroke, the issue
was minor. The film in 8 short days shot over 30 minutes of usable
fight scenes, which made him even happier. "Normally in the business
being able to in one day shoot two minutes of usable film was already
very talented, this time truly has broken a record!"
Raymond Lam receives a joke "most 'chok' Walled City resident" certificate courtesy of on.cc
German Cheung, Raymond Lam, Tony Wu and Philip Ng courtesy of singto.com
Philip Ng jokes that the viewer gets too much into the movie and still thinks he is his character in the film,Wong Gau
The male viewer during preparation has already launched a kick to Philip Ng. After demonstrating the "inch impact" Philp Ng shakes hands with the viewer, who pushes him down from behind.
German Cheung, Tony Wu, Philip Ng and Raymond Lam continue to attend audience appreciation events
Raymond Lam complies with viewer request for a photo courtesy of mingpao.com
Philip Ng Won Lung aside from working on his new film
also promoted the film TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN (GAU LUNG
SING JAI JI WAI SING) with Raymond Lam Fung, Terrance Lau Chun Him,
Tony Wu Tsz Tung, German Cheung Man Kit, Josev Lau (Giu Ching Fu)
and others. They braved the red storm warning and foul weather two
days ago to thank the audience for the support. Even Korean viewers
were present.
Always known for his "chok" Lam Fung received the
"Kowloon Walled City's most Chok resident" certificate. He immediately
shared the award photo online, which received comments like "That's
right that's right, the most chok is you" and "so chok do you need
to reward us with a concert?"
Viewers also presented the cartoon mask and chocolate glasses
from the film to Lam Fung, who put them on right away to entertain
everyone. He revealed, "The mahjong scene originally had no script,
not to mention that neither the director nor I knew how to play.
Luckily we had a technical director (pointing at Wu Tsz Tung).
The scene talked about the lives of the four brothers." Cheung Man
Kit said, "We chose how we appeared in that scene."
In addition, Ng Won Lung during the audience appreciation
event at the LOHAS invited a viewer to the stage to demonstrate the
"inch impact", but the middle aged man kicked him before he was ready,
when he was holding up his microphone and about to speak. Even the
book in his hand was knocked out. Then he turned around and kicked
again. They continued as Ng Won Lung pretended to punch but pushed
him in the chest one. As everyone thought the demonstration was over,
the male viewer suddenly struck Ng Won Lun with an elbow and pushed
him onto the ground. Wu Tsz Tung immediately helped him up while
Lam Fung was stunned. Lam Fung then said, "Oh, we lost. Great
great great great great, don't be so impulsive." With his high
emotional quotient Ng Won Lung held back and said, "I really don't
know Qi Gong." Later he tried to ease the tension more, "Now you
can see that I actually don't know Shenda." Many online praised Ng
Won Lun for his high EQ online afterward.
As the incident went viral online, Ng Won Lung responded that
he was fine, only because he was not prepared he was pushed over. "Very
obviously this viewer got too involved into the movie and thought I
was Wong Gau (character in the film)." He thanked everyone
for their concern, which warmed his heart very much. As of yesterday,
TWILIGHT's Hong Kong box office has already exceeded HK$ 20 million.
Released simultaneously in the mainland on May 1st, TWILIGHT's
mainland box office has reached 315 million yuan RMB and in the top
three of the mainland May Day golden week.
Ng Won Lung was undaunted by what happened as yesterday he
continued the audience appreciation tour with 6 shows from Cheung Sha
Wan to Tuen Mun. The live audience interaction and "inch impact"
demonstration segment were cancelled, as they only fielded questions
from the audience. Ng Won Lung, Lam Fung, Cheung Man Kit and Wu Tsz
Tung received audience compliments of their good performance at the
first audience appreciation show. The real life kung fu expert Ng
Won Lung said that unlike the character he did not know hard Qi Gong,
from the beginning to the end he had to tolerate. "The biggest
challenge of the character was taking a beating, but not showing the
pain." A viewer asked, "Are you fine from yesterday?" He smiled and
said, "No problem, no problem!"
A viewer asked about their most memorable scene. Lam Fung
said that at the risk of sounding lame every scene has been very
unforgettable. I had to fight from the start to the finish, has
everyone have a great time watching the movie? The longest fight
scene was the great duel, which took almost two weeks to shoot. All
the brothers were united and toughed it out, actually it wasn't easy
at all. We fought at least 16 hours a day, the longest was 22 hours
in a day. I felt it was quite a feat."
When asked about working with Koo Tin Lok this time, Lam Fung
said, "I am happy, actually I have known Boss Goo Jai for over 20
years. I was fortunate to have met this brother not long after I got
into the business, now he still teaches me a lot. After joining the
company, in recent years I have had more opportunity to participate in
big screen performance. I also hope to keep learning myself."
Lam Fung said that Goo Jai in the film interacted with every
character in the film, in particular everyone had a very difficult
time with the life and death emotions in Goo Jai's final scene.
Because of the heavy emotions, this scene also took two days to shoot.
"The greatest sentiment was that after our hard work, we are able to
show it to the audience. We truly are very grateful to the audience
for their support. I hope to have even more friends who like this
movie, only then would we have the opportunity to make the next one."
Before leaving the cinema he stopped to comply with viewers' photo
requests.
At one of the audience appreciation shows yesterday, the
4 were sked which fight scene was the most memorable, Wu Tsz Tung
joked, "Of course it was that show yesterday." The crowd broke into
laughter. Ng Won Lung then smiled and reprised that push after the
handshake with the male viewers from two nights ago with Wu Tsz Tung,
Lam Fung and Cheung Man Kit. Wu Tsz Tung stressed that they were only
joking, saying that every audience appreciation show has been very
memorable. The most important was seeing the audience having fun from
watching the movie.
Li Linlin braves the red rain warning to be on Nancy Sit's radio program courtesy of mingpao.com
Li Linlin yesterday braved the red storm warning for
Nancy Sit Ka Yin's Metro Radio program interview to promote her film
ALL SHALL BE WELL (CHUNG GUM YI HAU). Husband John Chiang Dai Wai was
her chauffeur. She said that her husband was afraid that she would
be too rushed, whenever he would have the time he would provide
transportation.
Li Linlin said that she and Sister Ka Yin have known each
other for decades, praised her for being a joy and knowing how to
cultivate an atmosphere. She also put work first, was very hard
working. "Because I really like this movie, I promote harder. I used
to be lazy in this business, I wouldn't be so smart. Only as I get
older, I feel I have the responsibility to do my best to coordinate
with the promotion." Since the film had good word of mouth and
received an award, would she make more movies? She pointed out that
good scripts were hard to come by, and her health was not what it used
to be; however with new genres she would still give it a try.
Li Linlin said that she did not know whether her family would
arrange to celebrate Mothers' Day, but her daughter hs always valued
holidays. She instead never made any special celebration. "Because I
am always free, everyday is like a holiday. On Mothers' Day the
family would probably eat together to celebrate. My son in law
(Raymond) Cho Wing Lim is great, likes to cook and cook well. Perhaps
because he frequently cooks for us, his cooking skills has improved
and he has been particularly attentive."
German Cheung, Terrance Lau, director Soi Cheang, Raymond Lam and Tony Wu shoot a video to thank the viewers courtesy of on.cc
courtesy of singtao.com
Josev Lau and Philip Ng visit over 10 cinemas for audience appreciation shows
Louis Koo hopes that domestic film professionals would systemically continue to develop and pass the torch, so the industry would have steady and quality production rate, continue to elevate the Hong Kong film creativity level and competitiveness courtesy of mingpao.com
The Hong Kong Film Awards winning director Soi Cheang
Pou Soi's new film TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN (GAU LUNG SING
JAI JI WAI SING) officially opened and rapidly passed HK$ 5 million,
with advanced screenings its total box office was HK$ 5,020,529,
broke many records and became the 2024 single day opening box office
champion, the total Hong Kong film opening day box office champion in
the past 8 years, and second place in Hong Kong film opening day box
office only behind COLD WAR 2 (HONG JIN II) in 2016.
The film in the past week held many preview shows. The
audience response was enthusiastic and raves came in like waves.
Aside the crazy comic book style action that left the audience with
endless praises, viewers also savored the brotherhood that moved them
to tears.
The film's near perfect replication of the 80s Kowloon Walled
City told a story of Hong Kong nostalgia that could not be "left
behind or held on to", both became highlight for viewers. The opening
advanced sales and same day sales figures both reflected the film's
popularity with the audience. The opening day admission reached
73,070 people, the highest admission of a Hong Kong film opening day
in the past 8 years. Many shows were all red and almost sold out.
For the opening box office rapidly exceeding HK$ 5 million,
director Cheang Pou Soi led the quartet of Raymond Lam Fung, Terrance
Lau Chun Him, Tony Wu Tsz Tung and German Cheung Man Kit and shot a
video to thank the audience for the support. Cheang Pou Soi said, "I
am very happy to learn that TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN
reached second place among the Chinese language film opening box
office." The quartet asked in unity, "TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED
IN has already opened its city gate, we hope everyone would strongly
support it."
As for actors Philip Ng Won Lung and Josev Lau (Kiu Ching Fu)
on the opening day visited over 10 cinemas in Kowloon and the New
Territories in an audience appreciation show marathon. Each time they
appeared they received the passionate applause from the audience.
Everyone declared the film as entertaining. Ng Won Lung and Kiu Ching
Fu also interacted with the audience and played games. Ng Won Lung
even demonstrated the "inch impact" for viewers to personally
experience the action up close. The response was overwhelming.
In addition, the Louis Koo Tin Lok led Federation of Hong
Kong Filmmakers yesterday announced the new screenwriting apprenticeship
project. As the Hong Kong film market suffered numerous setbacks in
recent years, small to medium sized film production companies'
resources have been tightened and had difficulties to bear the
responsibility of hiring full time screenwriting positions. At the
same time many young screenwriting talent due to the lack of stable
income have not dared to fully immerse themselves into film
creation, thus a gap has appeared and impacted the potential of
Hong Kong film's future development. The new screenwriting
apprenticeship project would be the Film Development Fund financed,
with the full support of Create Hong Kong. They hoped that through
direct salary compensation to support Hong Kong film production
companies' hiring of full time screenwriting apprentices, hence
creating an opportunity to join the business for a new generation of
creators and responding to the industry's dire need for film
screenwriters.
President Koo Tin Lok said, "Currently screenwriters mostly
could only work with different companies through offering their
services or freelance formats. They are unable to steadily create
and mesh with production team in the long run and lack actual
experience. Every year each higher education institutions' related
departments have created their shares of creators, but many
graduates or new creators who are interested in developing in the film
industry all express that they have 'no door to get into the
business through'. I hope that the 'new screenwriting apprenticeship
project' would be able to provide resources to the industry, attract
and employ this new generation that is full of passion but lacks
opportunity." The first period of the project would last 18 months,
with a maximum approval of 5 domestic film production companies'
assistance applications. Each company would be required to hire two
full time screenwriting apprentices, a total of 10 screenwriting
apprentices maximum. Each position would receive a maximum assistance
of HK$ 324,000 for the period, with each apprentice's salary no less
than HK$ 15,000. The project would provide new screenwriters with the
opportunity to practice and learn; from creating, planning to production
and execution as well as other stages, they would have the chance to
work with experienced creators, expand their horizon, understand the
film industry more and maintain their passion for creating.
Apprenticeship applicants must hold a Hong Kong permanent
residence identification card, and graduated from their university or
higher education institution for no more than 5 years. At the same
time applicants must have never work on any film as a "screenwriter"
or "joint screenwriter", whichwould ensure the project to be able to
truly cultivate new screenwriting talent.
The corner of Nicholas Tse was sliced open by an inch, luckily no scar remained
Nicholas Tse congratulates Zhang Yimou on his Golden Mulberry Award for Lifetime Achievement
Fans flock to Nicholas Tse for autographs courtesy of on.cc
courtesy of singtao.com
Zhang Yimou and Chiu Fu-Sheng
CUSTOMS FRONTLINE's screenwriter Erica Li (left), action director and star Nicholas Tse, director Herman Yau (right) with Zhang Yimou courtesy of mingpao.com
The Emperor Motion Picture CUSTOMS FRONTLINE would open
on July 5th, and good news came on the eve of its release as the film
has been invited to be the 26th Udine Far East Film Festival closing
film. Director Herman Yau Lai To, screenwriter Erica Li Man and lead
actor Nicholas Tse Ting Fung personally went to Udine, Italy to attend
the film festival and had contact with the CUSTOMS FRONTLINE world
premiere live audience up close. Ting Fung hoped that Chinese language
films would connect internationally. He also wanted to work with
Zhang Yimou.
Ting Fung's schedule has been intense, upon landing in Udine
he immediately headed to the film festival venue. The 26th Udine Far
East Film Festival Golden Mulberry Award for Lifetime Achievement
was presented before the CUSTOMS FRONTLINE world premiere.
International master class director Zhang Yimou personally accepted
the honor. Ting Fung attended the presentation with director Yau Lai
To and Li Man and gave their highest salute to director Zhang Yimou.
Ting Fung even chatted with Director Zhang and took photos, looking
forward to the opportunity of working together in the future.
Ting Fung shared the production experience from CUSTOMS
FRONTLINE. He revealed that in one scene he fell from a dozen or so
meters to the ground, the impact turned the sunglasses into a sharp
object that deeply sliced the corner of his right eye. "As soon as the
glasses sliced I was bleeding, at the time I didn't know I needed
stitches. Luckily later I recovered, otherwise I would probably have
an inch long scar here (pointing at the corner of his eye)."
CUSTOMS had many large scale scenes, some involved many giant
trailers and ships. Ting Fung stated that he was risking his life
every minute. "This time I did a lot of preparation before hand.
Because I insisted on using large actual sized material, we used a
lot of heavy equipment. Most were over 1,000 pounds or even 2 tons.
We really couldn't have any mishap! Normally when a prop table would
ram into you, you might only have bruises and scratches, but if these
heavy trailers ram into you, you might die! So I have been even more
cautious with this production than movies before. Our new team tried
the stunts many times, before shooting we already blew up 5 cars and
knocked over many trailers. Ultimately we had to be careful."
Working with Jacky Cheung Hok Yau, Ting Fung praised his
strong ability to replicate the action. He even revealed that Hok Yau
had a major breakthrough. "Over the years probably no one has seen
Hok Yau fight with a weapon. I am very happy to give him the chance
to make the breakthrough with us. I used a long staff, while he used
a short one. If we were accurate, hitting our fingers would have been
a pretty big deal. I thank him for trusting us."
CUSTOMS FRONTLINE became the 26th Udine Far East Film Festival
closing film. Many viewers descended upon the premiere venue for
advantageous positions. When CUSTOMS FRONTLINE creators Ting Fung,
director Herman Yau Lai To and Erica Li Man arrived, they caused a
stir as viewers fought for autographs. Ting Fung also responded to
every request and tried his best to please everyone; before the show
began, Ting Fung, director Yau Lai To and Li Man personally shared
their experience on the stage. Director Yau Lai To said, "I am very
glad to come to Udine again, run into some good friends and meet some
new ones. Everyone is here because of their love of film; CUSTOMS
FRONTLINE aside from the participation of the outstanding screenwriter
Li Man also has Ting Fung as the action director. This is Ting Fung's
first attempt in the film world. I am very honored to have his first
time in this post in the film I directed, CUSTOMS FRONTLINE." Li Man
said, "This is probably my third time at this film festival. CUSTOMS
FRONTLINE is not about a superhero, but a story that an ordinary
person can also demonstrate heroic action. It is an extraordinary
action film." Ting Fung said, "I am very honored to be able to come
to the CUSTOMS FRONTLINE's global premiere. Everyone would become the
first audience of this film, to be able to very truly experience this
film. I hope you would like it."
CUSTOMS FRONTLINE before its release has already garnered the
attention of international film festival, which Ting Fung admitted
felt greatly encouraged. "Of course I am happy, I very much hope for
Chinese language films to connect with the world. this time would be
a great platform and opportunity." CUSTOMS FRONTLINE has been rather
important for Ting Fung, who from planning to production has given his
all in order to achieve the perfect result. Ting Fung said, "It's the
first time I am the action director, our explosions are real
explosions. Falling from several floors above, of course I have wire
assistance but truly I still personally perform. All the methods I
use are the most traditional methods of Hong Kong action films, I
really hope in the future to introduce anew, inspire some young
people to understand and like this industry; for me, if an action film
has no danger, it isn't called an action film; but now too few young
people would work on action films!" Ting Fung had his heart set on
passing the torch of Hong Kong action film. He traveled thousands of
miles from Shanghai to Udine to bring CUSTOMS FRONTLINE to the overseas
market. Ting Fung said that this trip would be very memorable. "From
Shanghai to Udine requires almost 20 hours. We would first spend 9
hours to fly from Shanghai to Dubai, after an over 3 hour layover in
Dubai we would spend 6 and a half hours to fly to Venice. Then from
Venice we would take a half hour flight to Udine and directly begin
to work. Now I still feel a little dizzy."
Michelle Wai admits liking handsome guys courtesy of on.cc
courtesy of singtao.com
Sooyoung, Jennifer Yu and Michelle Wai are dressed in black for the event courtesy of on.cc
Korean girl group Girls' Generation's Sooyoung,
Michelle Wai Sze Nga and Jennifer Yu Heung Ying yesterday attended a
jewelry event. They were all dressed in black. Visiting Hong Kong
again after a long time, Sooyoung not only missed the fans but also
looked forward to the Hong Kong night scenery and food. She also
wanted to challenge an action film; a part of the film CUSTOMS
FRONTLINE (HOI GUAN JIN SIN), Wai Sze Nga played dumb and received
Nicholas Tse Ting Fung's attentive direction.
The Wai Sze Nga starred film CUSTOMS FRONTLINE released its
production highlight. In the video she seriously listened to the
action director Tse Ting Fung's explanation of how to hold a gun. Wai
Sze Nga praised Ting Fung as great. Not only was he dizzyingly
handsome, he was also attentive. During his performance he even
performed professionally. In one scene she watched Ting Fung punched a
wall without holding back and ended up with blood strands all over his
hand, which gave her quite a headache. She said that actually she
knew how to hold a gun, but pretended that she did not so Ting Fung
would personally teach her. "By pretending not to know I was able to
have him grabbing my hand up close. I also pretended not to be able
to hear him so I was able to lean nearly to him. However although
this time I played his girlfriend, we didn't have any intimate
scene. I hope the next time when we would work together I would be
able to add that."
Nick Cheung complies with every viewers' requests courtesy of on.cc
Nick Cheung shares his reason of making PEG O' MY HEART courtesy of singtao.com
Nick Cheung is sharply dressed for PEG O' MY HEART's world premiere courtesy of mingpao.com
The Nick Cheung Ka Fai directed and starred new film
PEG O' MY HEART (SHOOK MUNG) was invited to participated in the Udine
Far East Film Festival and held its world premiere on two nights ago.
Ka Fai dressed up for the occasion. When he arrived at the cinema
viewers welcomed him, many were mainland viewers who came to support
him in Udine. In all the excitement Ka Fai interacted with them on
the spot and posed for photos with them. The film would make its
premiere and meet viewers from around the world, but Ka Fai stated that
he was not particularly nervous. "Because I myself am not too
ambitious. This time Udine invited me to take part actually because
it was a token of respect. Since they gave it I accepted it. I really
am not too ambitious. Of course If I am able to promote the film so
more people would know about it and become interested in supporting
it, this is my greatest wish." Ka Fai also showed his humorous
nature and said that he was able to bring PEG O' MY HEART to Italy,
so I hoped it would be a good start. "As the director I brought PEG
O' MY HEART to Italy for its world premiere, which means it would be
big fortune because it's Italy (sounds like meaning big fortune).
Ultimately I hope everyone would have fun watching it."
Before the screening Ka Fai first thanked the audience in
English on the stage. He was grateful to receive the film festival's
invitation for the world premiere. In addition he also shared his
reason for making PEG O' MY HEART (SHOOK MUNG). Ka Fai pointed out
that he has always very much appreciated the 80s Hong Kong films,
many of which were horror films. He hoped through his own work to
prove to the audience of the entire world that Hong Kong was still
able to make horror films. Then the festival president Sabrina
Baracetti embraced Ka Fai on the stage and congratulated him on his new
film finally making its official debut.
After the screening, the audience applauded for two minutes
and Ka Fai was very moved. He immediately got up, put his hands
together and took a bow to thank the audience. Then viewers flocked
to the cinema lobby, surrounded Ka Fai to ask for autographs and
photos. Ka Fai was very friendly and responded to every request. He
stayed for almost half a hour to please everyone. Some European
viewers interacted with Ka Fai, praised the film for its strong style
and vicious visuals. Some praised the outstanding special effects
as the horror scenes in the film frightened them. Some film critics
also posted online to sing the praises of the actors for their
outstanding performances.
On this trip to Italy, he also took the time to visit and
have good food. During the trip he suddenly wanted to try Japanese
ramen. The thinking of the Best actor was truly unexpected!
10 18X2 BEYOND YOUTHFUL DAYS
d. Michihito Fujii
Kaya Kiyohara, Joseph Chang Hsiao-Chuan, Hsu Kuang-Han
Rating : I
Length : 124 mins.
Opening April 4 2024
[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
Jimmy goes back to his parents' house for the first time in a long
time and finds a postcard from Ami. Ami, a backpacker from Japan,
showed up at the his work place 18 years ago. Jimmy's memories of
his first love come back to him, and he sets off on his first solo
trip to Japan to face the past and look at the present. As he rides
a train listening to the songs they heard together, he heads for her
hometown. Will Jimmy be able to reunite with Ami?
9 THE MINISTRY OF UNGENTLEMANLY WARFARE
d. Guy Ritchie
Henry Cavill, Eiza Gonzalez, Alan Ritchson, Alex Pettyfer,
Hero Fiennes iffin, Babs Olusanmokun,
Henry Golding, Cary Elwes
8 GODZILLA X KONG: NEW EMPIRE
d. Adam Wingard
Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, Dan Stevens
7 KUNG FU PANDA 4
d. Mike Mitchell, Stephanie Stine
DreamWorks Animation
English Voices: Jack Black, Awkwafina, Viola Davis,
Dustin Hoffman, Bryan Cranston, James Hong, Ian McShane,
Ke Huy Quan, Ronny Chieng, Lori Tan Chinn, Seth Rogen
6 FLY ME TO THE MOON
Can : Dan Yuen Yun Cheung Gau
d. Sasha Chuk Chi Ngan
Wu Kang-Ren, Sasha Chuk Chi Ngan, Angela Yuen Lai Lam,
Tse Wing-yan, Natalie Hsu (Hui Yan Yi)
Rating : IIB
Length : 114 mins.
Opening October 23 2023 at the 36th Tokyo International Film Festival
Opening November 12 2023 at the 20th Hong Kong Asian Film Festival
Opening December 28 2023 (Preview)
Opening April 11 2024
Site : https://2023.tiff-jp.net/en/lineup/film/3602ASF01
Trailer : https://youtu.be/uXqn9tCGx4c
[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
In 1997, little sisters move to Hong Kong with their mother from
Hunan to reunite with their father. However, what awaits them is not
paradise, but poverty, identity crisis and a drug addicted father.
To survive, they become pleasers. Entering teenage, the sisters
start to resist, struggling between the family and their
self-identity in development. Then as grown-ups, they realise how
their childhood memories keep haunting their current lives. Produced
by renowned director Stanley Kwan, Sasha Chuk's first feature tells
a story of reconciliation with one's parents and oneself.
[ 36TH TOKYO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ]
A family chronicle, spanning from 1997, the year of the handover of
Hong Kong, to 2017, captures the life of a father and his daughter
for 20 years. Produced by Stanley Kwan.
5 EXHUMA
d. Jang Jae-hyng
Lee Do-hyun, Kim Go-eun, Choi Min-sik, Yoo Hai-jin
Length : 132 mins.
Opening April 11 2024
[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
In Los Angeles, the renowned shaman Hwa-rim and her protege Bong-gil
are commissioned with a hefty sum to meet the enigmatic descendants
of a household afflicted by a peculiar illness. Sensing the ominous
aura surrounding the ancestral grave, Hwa-rim urges for its
relocation. The best geomancer in the business, Sang-duk, and
mortician Young-geun, lured by the scent of money, join the team.
"You all understand...what happens if we mess with the wrong grave."
The mysterious grave, situated in an unapproachable sacred ground,
holds dark secrets. Though Sang-duk senses an ominous presence and
initially rejects the proposal, Hwa-rim’s persuasion ultimately
initiates the exhumation, leading to a journey where the team must
confront both supernatural forces and their own fears.
Those that must remain buried have surfaced.
4 HAIKYU!!: THE DUMPSTER BATTLE
d. Mitsunaka Susumu
Japanese Animation
Length : 85 mins.
Opening April 11 2024
Trailer : https://youtu.be/2k_36L-IS2E
[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
The teaser trailer glimpses the initial encounter and subsequent
development of friendship between Shoyo Hinata and Kenma Kozume,
culminating in a decisive match on the volleyball court. With Shoyo
Hinata's famous line: "Let's play a game that can't be repeated",
the stage is set for 'The Dumpster Battle"!
3 WE 12
Can : 12 Gwai Doh
Lit : 12 Strange Thieves
d. Berry Ho Kwok Man
Lokman Yeung, Anson Lo Hon Ting, Frankie Chan Sui Fai,
Alton Wong Chi Tak, Stanley Yau Sze Chun, Anson Kong Ip Sang,
Jer Lau Ying Ting, Ian Chan Cheuk Yin, Jeremy Lee Chun Kit,
Edan Lui Cheuk On, Keung To, Tiger Yau Ngo Yin,
Yeung Wai Lun, ERROR, Yoyo Kot Cheuk Yiu
Rating : IIA
Length : 97 mins.
Opening November 2023 (Experience Preview)
Opening March 28 2024
Trailer : https://youtu.be/JvVkTYYjQaE
[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
TIn the world, which is ordinary yet a little bit extraordinary,
there is an underground organization called the "The League of
Kaito". Their members silently guard the social order and peace.
Within the organization, there are 12 geniuses, each with their own
unique skills. Kaito Ian is good at planning, Kaito KT is a master
of hypnosis, Kaito Stanley is skilled in eavesdropping, Kaito A.Lo
is most adaptable, Kaito Edan is excellent in abseiling, Kaito Jer
can instantly disguise himself, Kaito Tiger knows how to read lips
from a distance, Kaito Alton is a world-class hacker, Kaito AK
masters animal telepathy, Kaito Lokman is familiar with unlocking
techniques, Kaito Frankie has the strongest sixth sense, and Kaito
Jeremy has a natural super memory and can read and memorize large
amounts of information at a glance. They are the star members of the
League of Kaito.
One day, they received instructions from Boss, to gather at
headquarters to complete an important case that will affect the
entire world. They not only need to rekindle their team spirit but
also face the top enemy of all Kaitou, security manager Johnny, who
is trying to stop them, making the mission even more difficult.
2 THE FALL GUY
d. David Leitch
Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt
1 GUNDAM SEED FREEDOM
d. Mitsuo Fukuda
Japanese Animation
Rating : IIA
Length : 124 mins.
Opening April 25 2024
Trailer : https://youtu.be/xLFdFQh8LaI
[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
In C.E.75, the fighting still continues. There are independence
movements, and aggression by Blue Cosmos... In order to calm the
situation, a global peace monitoring agency called COMPASS is
established, with Lacus as its first president. As members of
COMPASS, Kira and his comrades intervene into various regional
battles. Then a newly established nation called Foundation proposes
a joint operation against a Blue Cosmos stronghold.
Louis Koo and Aaron Kwok's duel to the death in the film has become the focus courtesy of on.cc
courtesy of singtao.com
courtesy of mingpao.com
TWILIGHT OF THE WARRIORS: WALLED IN (GAU LUNG SING JAI
JI WAI SING) opens today. Yesterday its mainland advanced screenings
have already recorded over 70 million RMB. Director Soi Cheang Pou
Soi yesterday stated that he hoped other upcoming Hong Kong film
released would all have good box office performance. He also pointed
out that each actor was very outstanding and gave special thanks to
guest star Aaron Kwok Fu Sing, who brought great impact to the film.
Sing Sing in the film guest starred as the "Killer King" who
kills without batting an eye. Kwok Fu Sign was willing to guest
star completely because of his admiration for director Cheang Pou Soi.
After Cheang Pou Soi analyzed the character setting and the story in
detail to Kwok Fu Sing, he finally with his greatest sincerity moved
him. For this shoot, Kwok Fu Sing before hand studied the character
appearance with the director many times. "Killer King" appeared in
the 70s, the costume director suggested for Kwok Fu Sing to grow the
then popular thin mustache and appear in a Chinese suit and classic
slick back hair. With a killing weapon in hand, his eyes were
ferocious and displayed the kill without batting an eye presence. In
the battle at the ancient temple of the Heavenly Queen with "Tornado",
three strong friends came to a life and death battle. Just this part
with Louis Koo Tin Lok alone took 3 days and 3 nights to shoot, as
they fought to dark. The result was very awe inspiring as both the
cast and the crew were pleased. Sing Sing said that during the shoot
he gave his full attention to every move. Because many scenes
required him to carry a sharp weapon in his fights, especially the
duel to the death with Koo Tin Lok, he had to be extremely careful
with wielding the weapon to prevent any accident.
In addition, playing Tiger Kenny Wong Tak Bun also suffered a
severe injury on his right eye in the gang war with "Killer King" and became blind. Thus Brother Tiger hated "Killer King" for the rest of
his life. Although "Killer King" did not appear often, he was quite
eye catching.
Rache Leung runs into seagulls that not only look for food but also drop "bombs" on tourists in Venice
Rachel Leung, Lawrence Kan and Jonathan Li attend many seminars courtesy of mingpao.com
Fresh out of the oven Hong Kong Film Award Best
Supporting Actress Rachel Leung Yung Ting earlier along with her IN
BROAD DAYLIGHT (BAK YUT JI HA) director Lawrence Kan Kwan Chun and the
film DUST TO DUST (DAI BAK GOR YIM YI YUN)'s director Jonathan Li Tsz
Chun attended the 26th Udine Far East Film Festival for IN BROAD
DAYLIGHT's Italian premiere and DUST TO DUST's international premiere.
They attended the opening ceremony, the screenings, media interviews
and seminars, and spared no effort in promoting Hong Kong film to the
European audience. The audience there expressed strong support and
endless enthusiasm for the two multiple Hong Kong Film Awards
nominated films.
Rachel, who stepped foot on Italy and attended the Far East
Film Festival for the first time, felt very honored to be able to
attend. IN BROAD DAYLIGHT's music score was recorded in Italy last
year, now everyone was able to return here to watch this film at the
cinema. She was truly very moved. She knew that viewers because of
their love for Hong Kong films would come from all over Europe to
participate in the film festival, which made her cherish this
opportunity even more.
Although the schedule has been intense, she still took time
to run around and explore Udine. She joked that the seagulls there
had a lot of character, as they would spray their waste to mess around
the tourists. No wonder their group would shatter in a hurry whenever
they ran into giant seagulls.
She also visited Venice with Kan Kwan Chun and Siuyea Lo Chun
Yip to enjoy a food and scenery tour outside work. On the 4 day trip
Rachel had 12 scoops of Gelato.
Despite being busy with his new film in Hong kong, Wu Kang-Jen still finds time to find good food courtesy of on.cc
Taiwan Golden Horse Awards Best Actor Wu Kang-Jen
recently has frequently appeared in Hong Kong. Busy with the new
film series COLD WAR (HONG JIN) he earlier shared his rice box photo
on social media. "I had it several days ago and I still remember it,
I think......this is probably true love, love Harry, the heavy soy
sauce flavor, the crunchy crunchy cripsy rice, the delicious preserved
meat, an egg..." Even though Hong Kong has been scorching, Wu
Kang-Jen for several days in a row chose claypot rice and seemed to
have fallen in love with it. Fans commented, "He truly has become a
Hong Konger!" "He has even learned to use trendy Hong Kong slangs!"
Raymond Lam, German Cheung, Tony Wu and Terrance Lau promote their film in the mainland courtesy of on.cc
The Raymond Lam Fung starred new film TWILIGHT OF THE
WARRIORS: WALLED IN (GAU LUNG SING JAI JI WAI SING) has held advanced
screenings in Hong Kong on the past few days and won word of mouth.
Industry insiders even made him the favorite to challenge for the
Best Actor award next year. With a shot of confidence he ambitiously
promoted. Yesterday he and his "Kowloon 4" partners Terrance Lau Chun
Him, German Cheung Man Kit and Tony Wu Tsz Tung participated in a
mainland event. Lam Fung even dropped his idol image, performed
like the Korean female star Jang Won Young and even tried to "touch
his chin with his tongue". Lau Chun Him showed some skin to attract
eyeballs and immediately became the hot topic online.
Nick Cheung would attend "Hong Kong Night" at the film festival courtesy of on.cc
Nick Cheung (center) on Hong Kong Night runs into Rachel Leung (left), Lawrence Kan (second left) and Felix Chong (right) courtesy of mingpao.com
Best Actor Nick Cheung Ka Fai two days ago arrived in
Italy to prepare for the film he directed and starred in, PEG O' MY
HEART (SHOOK MUNG)'s participation in the Udine Far East Film Festival
world premiere on April 30th. The film also starred Terrance Lau Chun
Him and Fala Chen. After KEEPER OF DARKNESS (TOR DEI KUI MOR YUN) he
has brought another one of his own films to take part in the film
festival. Ka Fai went over half the Earth, after two transfers he
finally arrived in Udine.
Ka Fai upon arrival attended the event's "Hong Kong Night" and
dined with many Hong Kong filmmakers like Felix
Chong Man Keung, Lawrence Kan Kwan Chun, Jonathan Li Tsz Chun,
Rachel Leung Yung Ting and others. They were happy to see each of
them bringing their own work to meet with overseas viewers and enjoy
this film festival journey. At the Hong Kong Night dinner, Ka Fai
again met with film festival founders Sabrina and Thomas and thanked
them for years of strong support and appreciation of Hong Kong films.
Despite the long journey, Ka Fai was more happy than tired.
Udine has left a good impression on him, and he was reminded of when
he first stepped foot onto this place that was full of European color
with the film THE BEAST STALKER (JING YUN). Before leaving he even
called the film's director Dante Lam Chiu Yin, they promised to have
to work together again and bring their new film to the film festival
again.
