Wednesday, February 5, 2025

[2025.02.06] FOR THE WEEK ENDING SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2 2025

For the week ending Sunday, February 2 2025

CELLS AT WORK! MOVIE POSTER

10 CELLS AT WORK!
    d. Hideki Takeuchi
    Mei Nagano, Takeru Satoh,Koji Yamamoto,Shota Sometani,
      Wakana Matsumoto, Fukase, Riise Naka, Mana Ashida, Sadawo Abe
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 109 mins.
  Opening February 6 2025

    [ HONG KONG MOVIE 6 ]
    There are 37 trillion cells within the human body. The red blood cell who carries the oxygen, a white blood cell [neutrophil] who fights bacteria, as well as countless other cells work night and day to protect your health and your life. High school student Niko Urushizaki lives with her father Shigeru. As she is studious and conscientious about having healthy habits in her everyday life, the cells in her body always work happily. On the other hand, Shigeru's irregular lifestyle and unhealthy food intake make his body a toxic work environment for his overworked cells who can't stop complaining. They may be father and daughter, but the inside of their body is completely different. They get along well and live their eventful life happily. However, pathogens aiming to infiltrate the body are plotting their next move...

    The cells’ greatest war yet for the future of the Urushizakis is underway!

ATTACK ON TITAN: THE LAST ATTACK POSTER

  7 ATTACK ON TITAN: THE LAST ATTACK
    d. Yuichiro Hayashi
    Japanese Animation
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 145 mins.
  Opening January 16 2025

[ CINEMA CITY ]
    To protect themselves from the Titan threat, humanity built giant walls and lives in peace within them. Their 100 years of peace were destroyed by the attack of a Colossal TItan, and a boy who lost his mother, Eren Yeager, swore to eradicate the Titans and joined the Survey Corps. Through a series of literal battles of life and death, Eren earned the power to become a Titan. As he contributes to humanity's victory, he slowly gets closer to learning about the truth of the world. The time passes, and Eren, who left the walls and parted ways with his friends at the Survey Corps, carries out a terrifying plan. The "Rumbling", a plan in which one leads countless Titans to trample over the world and everything that exists upon it. Mikasa, Armin, and everyone who was left behind are now taking on the final battle to stop Eren from destroying the world.

[ CINEMA ONLINE MALAYSIA ]
    The fate of the world hangs in the balance as Eren unleashes the ultimate power of the Titans. With a burning determination to eliminate all who threaten Eldia, he leads an unstoppable army of Colossal Titans towards Marley.

THE PROSECUTOR MOVIE POSTER

  8 THE PROSECUTOR
  AKA : MISJUDGEMENT
  Can : Ng Poon
    d. Donnie Yen Chi Tan
    Donnie Yen Chi Tan, Julian Cheung Chi Lam,
      Michael Hui Koon Man, Francis Ng Chun Yu, MC Cheung Tin Fu,
      Kent Cheng Jut Si, Lau Kong, Yu Kang, Adam Pak Tin Nam,
      Locker Lam Ka Hei, Shirley Chan Yan Yi,
      Mason Fung Ho Yeung, Tommy Chu Pak Hong,
      Ray Lui Leung Wai, Mark Cheng Ho Nam, Sisley Choi Si Bui,
      Mandy Wong Chi Man, Justin Cheung Kin sing, Liza Wang Ming Chuen.
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 117 mins.
  Opening December 21 2024
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/DitF9p1tZcs

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    Based on true events. A young man is charged with drug trafficking. He pleads guilty under undue influence from his defense lawyer, in exchange for a reduced sentence. Hard-edged former cop Fok is the unconventional prosecutor assigned to the case. He becomes convinced that the conviction is unusual and decides to conduct his own investigation. Fok is forced to risk his own life and career to uncover the truth and bring the real villains to justice.

    Where the law ends, his justice begins...

[ THE FILM CATALOGUE ]
    Inspired by a true story in Hong Kong. A young man wrongfully charged with drug trafficking, pleads guilty under undue influence from his defense lawyer, letting the actual convict escaped from penalty. Fok, an unconventional prosecutor assigned to the case, firmly believes that the case is full of doubts and decides to conduct a private investigation for the young man. Fok risks his life and career to uncover the truth and bring the real culprit to justice


FOUR TRAILS MOVIE POSTER

  7 FOUR TRAILS
    d. Robin Lee
    Documentary
    Stone Tsang Siu Keung, Nikki Han, Salomon Wettstein,
      Jack Leung Chun Keung, Will Hayward, Law Kai Pong, Tom Robertshaw,
      Sarah Pemberton, Hyun Chang Chung
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 101 mins.
  Opening December 6 2024

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    At the time, they said it couldn't be done. In 2012, Andre Blumberg set off by himself, to run all four of Hong Kong's iconic ultra distance trails in just four days. 298km and over 14,500m of climbing later, one of the hardest ultra marathons in the world - the Hong Kong Four Trails Ultra Challenge - was born.

    With the 2021 edition of the challenge as the backdrop, 'Four Trails' takes you on a journey from when the concept was first was conceived to it's current format. Under 60 hours to be deemed a 'Finisher' and under 72 hours to be a ‘Survivor’, unsupported and with an ever evolving set of rules. It takes a deep dive into the famous four trails that make up the challenge and you will both laugh and cry as the astonishing stories of those who dare attempt such a feat unfold.

QUEEN OF MAHJONG MOVIE POSTER

  6 QUEEN OF MAHJONG
  Can : MA JEUK NUI WONG JUI NAM JAI
  Lit : Mahjong Queens Chase Guys
    d. Wong Jing, Patrick Kong (Yip Lim Sum)
    Samantha Ko Hoi Ning, Kenneth Ma Kwok Ming,
      Carlos Chan Ka Lok, DaDa Chan Jing,
      Sabrina Qiu Yinong, Benz Hui Siu Hung,
      Sean Man Jor Hong, Juliana Kwok Pui Man,
      Mak Ling Ling, Bob Lam Sing Bun, Ching Ho Wai,
      Kris Cheung Kam HaLee Seung Ching, Dai Yiu Ming,
      Jacky Cai Jie, Mizuki Lin Xiang
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 100 mins.
  Opening January 28 2025
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/o8ogVZXDOOI

[ CINEMA ONLINE MALAYSIA ]
    Follow the hilarious and heartwarming stories of love, family, and hidden secrets in the Long family - Village Chief Long with his three daughters and one son. With three couples navigating love and laughter in their own unique ways, their journey unfolds with unexpected twists and touching moments.

LEGENDS OF THE CONDOR HEROES: THE GALLANTS MOVIE POSTER

  5 LEGENDS OF THE CONDOR HEROES: THE GALLANTS
  Can : Seh Diu Ying Hung Juen: Hup Ji Dai Jeh
    d. Tsui Hark
    Xiao Zhan, Zhuang Dafei,
    Zhang Wenxin, Bayaertu, Alan Aruna
      Tony Leung Ka Fai, Ada Choi Siu Fun, Hu Jun, Wu Hsing-kuo
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 145 mins.
  Opening January 29 2025
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/FhWEtT3nC4s

PADDINGTON IN PERU  MOVIE POSTER

  4 PADDINGTON IN PERU
    d. Douglal Wilson
    Hugh Bonneville, Emily Mortimer, Madeleine Harris, Samuel Joslin,
      Julie Walters, Jim Broadbent, Olivia Colman, Antonio Banderas
    English Voice : Ben Whishaw,

CREATION OF GODS II: DEMON FORCE OPENS MOVIE POSTER

  3 CREATION OF GODS II: DEMON FORCE OPENS
    d. Wuershan
    Huang Bo, Yosh Yu Shi, Naernaxi (Na Shi), Luke Chen Muchi,
      Kris Phillips (Fei Xiang), Naran (Na Yan), Wu Xingguo,
      Han Pengyi, Ci Sha, Wu Yafan, Xia Yu, Senggerenqin, Ailiku,
      Zhang Yilong, Nayintai, Chen Kun
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 145 mins.
  Opening January 28 2025
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/lipOKjRHX3w

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    In the second instalment of the Fengshen Trilogy, "Creation of the Gods ?: Demon Force", the Kingdom of Xiqi falls under attack by the Shang Dynasty army. Now Jiang Ziya and Ji Fa, with the help of the Kunlun immortals, must gather civilians of the entire country to defend their homeland. The two camps are engaged in a fierce battle of magic, and the competition for the Fengshen Bang (The Investiture of the Gods) continues...

MY BEST BET MOVIE POSTER

  2 MY BEST BET
  Can : Cheung Doh Bit Yang
  Lit : Lucky Gamble Certain Victory
  AKA : DOH WOK GUM
  Lit : WAGER A WOK OF GOLD (tentative title)
    d. Andy Lo (Law Yiu Fai)
    Charlene Choi Cheuk Yin, Louis Cheung Kai Chung,
      Tommy Chu Pak Hong, Kayan Ng (Kayan9896), Stanley Yau Si Chun,
      Renci Yeung Sze Wing, Alan Yeung Wai Lun, Bowie Wu Fung,
      Kaho Hung
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 105 mins.
  Opening January 25 2025 (Preview)
  Opening January 28 2025
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/1YnJURP9U6k

[ CINEMA ONLINE MALAYSIA ]
    Wen Jing, a compulsive gambler, and Quan Shouzheng, a staunch opponent of gambling, navigate the twists and turns of their whirlwind marriage. When Wen Jing is forced back into the gambling world to save her kidnapped family members, their love and trust face the ultimate test


HIT N FUN MOVIE POSTER

  1 HIT N FUN
  Can : LUM SI KUET DAU
  Lit : LAST MINUTE DUEL
    d. Albert Mak Kai Kwong
    Louis Koo Tin Lok, Gigi Leung Wing Kei, Louise Wong Dan Nei,
      Tony Wu Tsz Tung, Chrissie Chau Sau Na, German Cheung Man Kit,
      Peter Chan Charm Man, Philip Ng Won Lung, Harriet Yeung Sze Man,
      Jozev Lau (Kiu Ching Fu), Hedy Wong Wan Ching,
      Kathy Wong Chung Yan, Henry Chan Hin Lok, Vivian Chan Wai Man,
      Celina Harto (Chan Ching Yi), Donny Wu (Ng Chi Hei)
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 108 mins.
  Opening January 28 2025
  Teaser : https://youtu.be/TW1QmH535yY

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    "CHUNG LUI SOCIETY" is a boxing gym founded by the former legendary Muay Thai champion CHUNG Lui, who is dedicated to training professional fighters. Despite the gym's struggles, he remains committed to his lifelong philosophy of never backing down from a challenge. Businesswoman Elsa discovers that her boyfriend Daniel is cheating on her with Macau's female champion, Surewin. Driven by her competitive spirit, Elsa vows to settle their score in the ring.

    Upon learning that Surewin was Lui’s former student, Elsa seeks him out to train her at his gym. There, she encounters MOK Ka Lei, who had previously clashed with her during an advertisement shoot. After leaving the entertainment industry to support her family, Ka Lei attempts to make a comeback, with the help of her friend LAM Pik Chu.

    Under the rigorous training of Lui's protégé, KO Chau, Elsa undergoes intense preparation. Although she struggles, she is inspired by her teammates and begins to realise that her motivation lies in personal growth, not just in competing against her boyfriend's new partner. On the day of the match, Elsa steps into the ring, fearless and ready to face Surewin in an ultimate showdown.

[2025.02.06] GIGI YIM SHOWS SUPPORT FOR "PAPA" PHILIP KEUNG'S NEW FILM

Gigi Yim only appears after the premiere to keep from stealing the actors' spotlight
courtesy of on.cc

The actors send their New Year blessings to the onlooking audience
courtesy of on.cc

Gigi Yim makes an appearance at the theater to support Philip Keung's new film and take a photo with Philip Keung's cardboard cut out
courtesy of singtao.com

Gigi Yim appears and instantly becomes the focus. She reveals that this is the first time she watches a Lunar New Year film premiere

Yin Ning and husband Philip Keung recall the difficulties during the production and both break down in tears

Gigi Yim supports "Papa" Philip Keung and Yin Ning's Lunar New Year and hopes it would be a big box office hit

Sam Lee, DaDa Chan and Bob Lam attend the Lunar New Year film HA HA HA HAPPY NEW YEAR premiere
courtesy of mingpao.com

Philip Keung Ho Man (Hak Gor) and his wife Yin Ning co-produced Lunar New Year film HA HA HA HAPPY NEW YEAR (HA HA HA SUN NIN HEI HEI) premiered in Kwun Tong the night before. Playing Keung Ho Man's daughter in the television drama FOREVER YOUNG AT HEART but recently suspected of under TVB suspension over contract issues, Gigi Yim Ming Hay also went to the cinema to support "Hak Pa".

Dressed in red, Gigi neither attended the premiere ceremony and nor was interviewed the night before. She went directly to the theater to take photos with "Hak Pa". Gigi later said that she was very happy to attend the premiere. The scene was very lively, and she also sent everyone her New Year blessings. "I wish everyone good health, Happy New Year, and I wish Hak Pa box office success. This is the first time I would watch a Lunar New Year movie, and I hope to properly enjoy it later." Did she immediately come to support Hak Pa as soon as he asked? Yim Ming Hay said, "That's right, this is a must!" Many viewers asked to take photos with Gigi.

In addition to the producer and the lead actor Keung Ho Man and a group of actors Sam Lee Chan Sam, DaDa Chan Jing, Bob Lam Sing Bun, etc., many friends in the circle Carlo Ng Ka Lok, Benjamin Yuen Wai Ho, Sunny Dai Yiu Ming, Mable Cho Man Po and her husband also attended to show their support. The actors flew paper airplanes with viewers. Bob even boasted that if the paper airplane released by the audience could surpass his paper airplane, he would give the other party 1,000 yuan, but when he lost he said it was for 1,000 yen.

Yin Ning and her husband Keung Ho Man appeared in red. She revealed that her husband was so nervous about the premiere that he could not sleep. "My husband put together what I am wearing, but after arriving we feel that what we wear looked like a theater uniform." Keung Ho Man joked that they were supporting the theater, so they wore theater uniforms. They hoped that even more people will enter the theater to watch the movie. What box office expectation did they have? Keung Ho Man said with a smile that he had no expectations or worries, because the audience had their own tastes. With so many Lunar New Year film releases this year, he felt that it was a good thing to have a choice and he was happy to have a full bloom. Yin Ning said that viewers could watch Louis Koo Tin Lok's HIT N FUN (LUM SI KUET DAU) for action, MY BEST BET (CHEUNG DOH BIT YANG) and QUEEN OF MAHJONG (MA JEUK NUI WONG JUI NAM JAI) for gambling, and their HA HA HA HAPPY NEW YEAR for family comedy.

Keung Ho Man revealed that he has not received his salary yet. "But it doesn't matter, I want to try different positions too." When asked if he would get two salaries, Keung Ho Man joked that he wanted to but just took one lai see. He thought that the most important thing was that the finished product was good and the audience could see their sincerity. How much would the box office have to be for them to give benefits? Keung Ho Man said frankly that with any box office success, the first thing to do was to distribute dividends to the staff. He would worry about himself later. Would he wear a pair of swimming trunks to give benefits? Keung Ho Man joked, "If you would dare to look, I would dare to put it on."

Yin Ning said that this year's total Lunar New Year film box office took quite a drop from the same period last year. With fewer and fewer cinemas, the most important thing was to be able to attract the audience to go to the theaters. She said that she was ashamed to face her husband and her heart ached for him. Because the limited production budget, most was spent on production. She was unable to provide a make up artist or transportation to her husband, as she saved wherever she could.

Keung Ho Man revealed that he invited Gigi to attend the premiere long ago and praised her for being very thoughtful. "She even said if she could help with anything just ask. Originally (Alice) Chan Wai also said that she would come, but she really has work on hand and couldn't."

Yin Ning thanked friends from everywhere for their support so she would be able to reach this step. She admitted that the 100 day production experience could be made into another movie, during the conversation she suddenly got sentimental and broke down in tears. She admitted that her and her husband felt heartache for each other, and Keung Ho Man was also moved to tears. Was he worried about Gigi's future? Keung Ho Man admitted that he has not caught up on the situation, so he has not given any advice. However whatever she would do, he would be supportive. "I don't get to worry too much, as a friend I can only chat with her a little. I haven't given her any advice, because I don't know whether my own opinion would be useful or not. I wish her well. Gigi is very nice, and has many fans who support her."

Bob recently revealed on social platforms that his 16-year-old daughter Feifei brought her boyfriend home for the first time. Bob laughed and said that he was not jealous, and even praised his daughter's boyfriend for being so well-behaved, tall and handsome. Next to him, Lee Chan Sam jokingly asked Bob, what would he do if his daughter's boyfriend looked exactly like him when he debuted in MADE IN HONG KONG? Bob said playfully, "Probably not in the mood to attend the premiere tonight."

Has Bob read the riot act to his daughter's boyfriend? He said, "I told the guy to be nice. The most important thing is to be happy. I didn't talk about too far into the future. Don't do anything weird, the most important thing is to have a sense of responsibility." He smiled and said that he was not mean to his daughter's boyfriend, but would just have a serious conversation. "I even told them to go and play, tour the home. Going to my daughter's room was fine, but don't close the door."

A father of two daughters, Lee Chan Sam was asked if he was worried about his daughters dating too early? He smiled and said, "I don't get to worry, when daughters are grown it's their world. I took my girlfriend home to meet my parents when I was fourteen or fifteen years old At the time I was very naive, going out to dinner and dating." His older daughter Lee Yuen Yuen chipped her tooth at home earlier. He said that when he saw her daughter's gum burst open and bleeding, he was very scared. However the accident actually aligned her misaligned tooth, even the tooth next to it grew.

Single, DaDa was asked if she wanted to have a child. Bob rushed to say that he could introduce guys to her, and even asked DaDa what she would want. DaDa said that she was born on the Year of the Snake, and her sign conflicte with this years. She would also have peach blossom luck again. She said, "The most important thing is to be manly, kind and single, career, height, weight does not matter. I look forward to his appearance." Would she mind having her match made? DaDa said that she has never tried it before but wanted to give it a try because after getting married she could not be matched. "If Bob has any recommendation, I wouldn't mind being matched. You only live once. Only the single has the privilege to be matched, and I can even put the experience into a role." Gold lable matchmaker Bob was asked if he introduced Nancy Wu Ting Yan's doctor boyfriend to her? He smiled but said nothing except for everyone to ask Wu Ting Yan.

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

[2025.02.05] FOR THE WEEK STARTING SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1 2025

For the week starting Saturday, February 1 2025 (Week 5)

VIUTV CHILL CLUB CHART


  5 TWENTY IS FINE
  Can : Yi Sup Wan Ho
  KOLOR

  4 ONLY I AM IRREPLACEABLE
  Can : Wai Duk Ngor Si But Hor Chui Tai
  R.O.O.T X Jaime Cheung Tin Wing

  3 ROVE WITH ME
  Can : Pui Ngor Yut Lo Man Yau
  ROVER

  2 THE LOVE BOAT
  Can : Chum Suen Kai Si Luk
  Mischa Ip Hau Lam feat JB and Phil Lam Yik Hon


  1 SEE YOU SOON, IT'S NOT A GOODBYE (TOGETHER AT LAST)
  Can : Wui Joi Gein Dik
  Jay Fung Won Him

[2025.02.05] HONG KONG FILM CRITICS SOCIETY AWARDS ACCUSED OF OVERLOOKING CO-DIRECTOR

Au Cheuk Man personally writes a letter to claim that he only served in a supporting role during the production of PAPA, Philip Yung is the only director
courtesy of mingpao.com

The 31st Hong Kong Film Critics Society Awards announced its winners earlier and led to endless controversies. After the Hong Kong Chinese language film box office record breaker THE LAST DANCE (POR. DEI Yuk) only received Recommended Film, the Society was accused of treating the film coldly. Philip Yun Tsz Kwong's Best Director Award for PAPA has also come into question, as some pointed out that Yung Tz Kwong and Au Cheuk Man co-directed PAPA but the latter was not on the list. The Hong Kong Film Critics Society recently publicly explained the relevant doubts, mentioning that Amy Chin Siu Wai, the producer of PAPA, clarified to the Society on January 2nd that the only director of PAPA was Yung Tsz Kwong from beginning to end. She hoped that the statement would be accepted in the process of the Society's awards discussion to define his performance in the film with Yung Tsz Kwong's directing techniques and personal style. At the same time, a letter written by co-director Au Cheuk-man was attached. the latter explained that he only played a supporting role during the filming process, and believed that the director of PAPA should be Yung Tsz Kwong alone; after consideration and evaluation, the Society accepted the request of the producer.

In the ballots that went to voters earlier for the Hong Kong Film Awards, the director column of PAPA were Yung Tsz Kwong and Au Cheuk Man. Some online commented that the film company should handle the division of duties and powers between the director and the executive director clearly in this regard.

[2025.02.06] SAMANTHA KO RUSHES TO THE CINEMA TO THANK THE AUDIENCE AS SOON AS SHE GETS OFF THE PLANE

Kenneth Ma, Samantha Ko and director Patrick Kong attend several audience appreciation shows for QUEEN OF MAHJONG

Kenneth Ma, Samantha Ko and director Patrick Kong interact with the audience and pose for a group photo
courtesy of mingpao.com

The Wong Jing and Patrick Kong (Yip Lim Sum) led the hilarious Lunar New Year film QUEEN OF MAHJONG (MA JEUK NUI WONG JUI NAM JAI) was now in theaters, with a box office of about HK$ 3 million. Director Yip Lim Sum and the male and female leads Kenneth Ma Kwok Ming (Ma Ming) and Samantha Ko Hoi Ning (Go Ling) appeared for the first time in the Year of the Snake a few days ago, and attended a series of audience appreciation show tickets.

Fans held up big signs and support items to congratulate QUEEN OF MAHJONG in unity on its box office hit! The three creators were even quite "spoiling fans", taking group photos with the audience one by one in the lobby of the cinema, causing the crowd to burst in the theater and flooding the theater scene with people.

For the enthusiastic response from the audience, the three main creators expressed their excitement and thanked the supporters for their support. Director Yip Lim Sum said, "I am very happy, the audience has responded well. They are so reluctant to let us go. I hope the response will be better, and we will continue to thank the audiences." Lead actress Go Ling smiled and said, "They (the audience) are so enthusiastic, I think we can thank more audiences so that we can interact more. We can 'Gung Hei Fat Choi' with the audience!" Ma Ming pointed out, "The happiest thing is seeing the audience so happy from watching, and feel that the movie brings joy to everyone in the New Year; so I feel so satisfied!"

Go Ling returned to Hong Kong from work in the United States in the morning and was very willing to join the audience appreciation team as soon as she got off the plane. Director Yip Lim Sum went to the cinema early that day to observe the audience's reaction. He said that the most important thing for a Lunar New Year film is bringing joy and emotions to the audience! The three main creators even gave an impromptu test to the audience with ultra-difficult mahjong questions, and director Yip Lim Sum said with a smile, "They all were able to answer, so sharp!" Go Ling and Ma Ming appealed to the audience to continue to enter the cinema to support the film, and Ma Ming even announced, "I hope to choose from more shows to thank the audience!"

When it comes to New Year's resolutions, the three of them all started from the movie. Director Yip Lim Sum said, "I hope more people will go to support QUEEN OF MAHJONG." Go Ling said, "+1, I hope it will be a big hit at the box office!" Ma Ming said simply and directly: "The higher the box office, the better!"

[2025.02.04] BIG S BARBIE HSU PASSED AWAY AT AGE OF 48

The news of Big S' passing has left everyone in shock

Big S' last public appearance was at a friend's wedding at the end of last month
courtesy of on.cc

Lin Chiling finds every one of her late friend's smiles memorable

Big S and F4 rose to fame with METEOR GARDEN
courtesy of on.cc

48 year old Taiwan star "Big S" Barbie Hsu passed away in Japan from flu related pneumonia

Big S had a lengthy list of past illness and even two miscarriages, but life and death no longer meant much to her

Big S worked with F4 on METEOR GARDEN, which solidified her Taiwan drama queen position

Big S and her former husband met only five times before getting married and had a son and a daughter together

Louis Koo and Big S have worked together twice, including the 2009 film ON HIS MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE
courtesy of singtao.com


Taiwan star "Big S" Barbie Hsu passed away in Japan from flu related pneumonia at age 48. The news has rocked communities and show business on both sides of the Strait. Started her career at the age of 17 in 1994, Big S worked in music, film, television and as program host and starred in movies in all three lands on both sides of the Strait. Pictured was her on the 2006 Golden Horse Award red carpet

Big S's last public appearance was on the 25th last month with her husband DJ Koo Jun-yup (right) and sister Dee Hsu (second left) at the post wedding homecoming banquet of "variety program godfather" Wang Wei-Chung's daughter Wang Ling in Taiwan

Big S and former husband Wang Xiaofei had one son and one daughter

Koo Jun-yup and Big S wed on February 8th 2022

Wang Xiaofei and Big S' marriage lasted only for 11 years, which the latter described as "2 dead 1 severely injured in ten year marriage"

Wang Xiaofei and his current wife Mandy Ma arrived in Taiwan from their holiday in Thailand. His eyes were all red and expression sorrowful

Wang Xiaofei puts his hands together and says, "Please speak well of her (Big S) more." He then gives the media a 90 degree bow

Big S and sister Little S were very close

Zhang Lan remembers her former daughter in law Big S on social media

In 2010 Big S starred with Andy Lau in FUTURE X-COP

In 2009 Big S worked with Louis Koo on ON HER MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE

Vic Chou once dated Big S and is saddened over his old flame's passing

Chen Chien-Chou says that Big S' passing left him heartbroken

Blue Lan is Big S' old flame

Big S revealed that she almost died during the birth of her younger son
courtesy of mingpao.com

Influenza A is breaking out in Japan, Taiwan, and other places. With a history of epilepsy and heart disease, Taiwanese artist Barbie Hsu (Big S) died of complication from pneumonia due to the flu during her trip to Japan. She was 48. Her family will return to her remains to Taiwan for burial after cremation yesterday, and the news of her death shocked communities and the entertainment industry on both sides of the strait. There are few deaths from influenza among adults aged 18 to 49 in Hong Kong, accounting for about 4.1% of all age groups in the current influenza season as of last Monday. Some doctors have said that influenza infection in patients with chronic diseases will increase the risk of severe illness. It is necessary to pay attention to the warning signs of pneumonia such as fever that does not go away, chest pain and thick phlegm.

The night before yesterday, some online hinted at the news of Barbie Hsu's death without naming names. South Korean media asked Big S' Korean husband Koo Jun-yup to confirmed. At the time he admitted in sorrow that the news was not fake and that he was "not very good". Artist Dee Hsu (Little S) confirmed the death of her sister through her manager yesterday morning, saying, "During the New Year, our entire family traveled to Japan. My dearest and kindest sister Barbie unfortunately left us because of pneumonia due to the flu." Little S said that she was grateful to be her sister in this life, taking care of each other and accompanying each other.

Friend Pace Wu actually was on the trip with Big S. Pace revealed that she met up with Big S' family in Tokyo from Hokkaido, but she did not expect to witness the tragedy and that this would be their final gathering. Pace was still upset when speaking to Taiwan media, tearfully saying that she was holding Little S and crying at the hospital.

Faded out of the entertainment industry in recent years, Barbie Hsu last appeared in public on the 25th of last month with her Korean husband Koo Jun-yup to attend the post wedding homecoming banquet for the "Godfather of Variety Show" Wang Wei Chung's daughter Wang Ling. Yesterday, Hong Kong, Taiwan and other performing arts circles expressed their condolences.

According to Taiwan media reports, Barbie Hsu went to Japan on the first day of the Lunar New Year (January 29th) and was already unwell before departure. On the mainland social platform red note, someone claiming to be the "S family tour guide" revealed that Hsu was already coughing and wheezing on the day of arrival. She rested at the Hakone Hotel starting on the 30th. Her condition deteriorated the next day and she was sent to the hospital and was discharged from the hospital on the same night. On February 1st she was diagnosed at a Tokyo hospital with Influenza A. In the middle of the night her condition pummeled and was rushed to the hospital. She passed away in the morning two days ago. Reportedly when Big S passed, her pair of children with her ex-husband Wang Xiaofei, her mother, husband, Little S and her husband Mike Hsu were all by her side.

Barbie Hsu debuted at the age of 17 and released a record under the name S.O.S with Dee Hsu, then the two sisters moved to the hosting industry under the name "ASOS", hosting variety shows "Guess Guess Guess" and "100% Entertainment". In 2001, she partnered with the boy group F4 on the idol drama "Meteor Garden" and rose to fame in Asia with the role of "Shan Cai" and became popular in Asia.

Barbie Hsu had two miscarriages, a history of epilepsy, and had mitral valve prolapse in her heart. The head of the Division of Infectious Diseases and chair professor of the Department of Medicine at the University of Hong Kong, Hung Fan Ngai said that if the heart condition worsens, such as mitral valve regurgitation, the risk of serious complications and death from influenza infection is greater, and heart disease, diabetes and chronic lung disease are all high-risk factors. The President of the Hong Kong Society of Infectious Diseases and Infectious Diseases, Lam Wai Shun said that epilepsy and mitral valve prolapse may not lead to weak immunity, but they are still chronic diseases and inevitably increase the risk of severe illness.

The 48-year-old Barbie Hsu (Big S)' sudden passing in Japan was tragic. She was a woman who dares to love and hate in the circle, and has been in love with Charlie "Blackie" Chen Chien-chou, Blue Lan Cheng-long, and Vic Chou Yu-min (Jai Jai). Later she experienced two dramatic marriages, marrying Wang Xiaofei in a falsh and had a pair of children. The marriage lasted for 11 years but broke up unpleasantly; after the divorce, she fell in love with Korean star Koo Jun-yup from the love seedlings the two planted more than 20 years ago. They found their love in a roundabout way, and registered their marriage in South Korea on February 8th, 2022 and again in Taiwan on March 28th 2022. In the end they could not celebrate their 3rd anniversary. Wang Xiaofei and his family were originally traveling in Thailand, but because of the death of his ex-wife he appeared in Taiwan yesterday with swollen eyes from crying, and told the media, "She is also my family."

Wang Xiaofei arrived in Taiwan from Thailand with his current wife Mandy Ma Xiaomei yesterday. He looked sad and his eyes were red and swollen. He spoke to the media at Taoyuan Airport. He put his hands together and said, "Please speak well of her (Big S) more." then gave the press a deep bow. Reporters asked if he came back to help? Wang Xiaofei shook his head with tears. Reporter asked again, "Will you go to Japan again this time after coming to Taiwan?" Wang Xiaofei said, "She is also my family." Then he got on the airport shuttle bus with his wife and left.

Wang Xiaofei from falling in love with Big S to marriage and divorce has been talked about. He was known as the "Four Youths of Beijing" back then, and met Big S at a birthday banquet in 2010. The two met 5 times and got married. Big S knew that her mother in law was in a hurry to be a grandparent, so she broke her years of vegetarian diet to coordinate. After marriage, they had a son and a daughter, but this marriage lasted for 11 years until the two parties announced their divorce in 2021. Due to cultural and personality differences they often argued. In the end Big S could not longer tolerate Wang Xiaofei's infidelity and other behavior and decided to leave. In addition to Wang Xiaofei's attacks on her ex-wife on social platforms, he even took aim at her husband Koo Jun-yup. "Can your waste of life change the mattress?" As a result, there was a farce of Big S returning the mattress. Big S once described their marriage as "two deaths and one serious injury in ten years of marriage", of which the second death was that she had two miscarriages, and the serious injury was that she further damaged her originally fragile body in order to have to children.

According to Taiwan media reports, the lawsuit between Big S and Wang Xiaofei has not yet ended. Big S has applied for enforcement of Wang Xiaofei's property of NT$7.5 million based on the original mediation transcript, and then claimed additional enforcement of living expenses and marital property, and now Big S still has more than NT$5.3 million unpaid. As Wang Xiaofei rushed to Taiwan yesterday, the issue of the distribution of hundreds of millions of inheritances between the two sides has aroused the attention of the outside world. Some online were concerned about the custody of Big S's children. Famous Taiwan lawyer Lu Chiu-yuan wrote an article on the Internet after the news of Big S's death, pointing out that according to Taiwan's civil law, after the divorce, it was originally agreed that one party would exercise guardianship, and if one of the exercising parties died, the custody of the children would be transferred to the surviving party. Therefore, the custody of the two children was handed over to Wang Xiaofei in accordance with the law. He said, "Even if you write a will, it is useless because the civil law stipulates that only the deceased parent can write a will and appoint a guardian."

As for Big S' current husband Koo Jun-yup, more than 20 years ago he went to Taiwan as a member of a guy group and fell in love with Big S at first sight. Reportedly their management companies prohibited their relationship and it ended. Barbie Hsu was devastated and pondered quitting show business. Koo Jun-yup still could not forget Big S. After Big S's divorce, Koo Jun-yup mustered up the courage to call and comfort her. They rekindled their love and decided to get married. Koo Jun-yup once showed the tattoo of love on his body, with the word Barbie Hsu's Chinese name and the Libra symbol; the right arm was engraved with an anchor pattern, on which the longitude and latitude of Taiwan were written. The anchor symbolized his safe haven, and Taiwan was his home.

Big S and Koo Jun-yup's marriage has become a hot topic. A variety show once invited a tarot card master to foretell the marriage of the two, asking if the two will grow old together? At that time, the divination master pointed out that the marriage between the two would not last 3 years. This misfortune unfortunately came true, and this video went viral on the Internet yesterday. The divination master left a message on social platforms, "Even I have chills up my spine".

Big S's family was still in Japan to handle her affairs. Yesterday Big S's mother issued a statement through her friend Wang Wei- Chung, saying that the family was also heartbroken. She said, "Because we want to take Barbie home, we must first go through many complicated processes in Japan. In order to handle these documents in the past few days, we can't return to Taiwan for the time being......" Mama Hsu talked about Big S's last wish and appealed to the media. She pointed out that Barbie has always been the most worried about reporters chasing them because it is very dangerous. Thus Mama Hsu hoped that when the family brings Big S to Taiwan, the media will not chase after them at the airport or on the road.

Barbie Hsu (Big S) joined the entertainment industry at the age of 17. She was involved in singing, variety shows, TV dramas and movies, etc., and was very popular. Her sudden death broke her friends' hearts. Many artists in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan who have worked with Big S. Louis Koo Tin Lok (Goo Jai) and Big S have collaborated on CONNECTED (BO CHI TUNG WA) and ON HIS MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE (DAI NOI MUK TAM LING LING GAU). Goo ai was shocked when he heard the news of Big S's death and said, "I am so shocked, my brains have stopped! I can't speak, I can't believe it's true! Have a safe journey!" Her CONNECTED co-star Nick Cheung Ka Fai also said, "Very regrettable and shocking, especially when she was very young. This unfortunate news makes everyone pay even attention to such a seemingly small role the flu plays, and be more careful in life! May Ms. Barbie Hsu have a safe journey." Another CONNECTED co-star Carlos Chan Ka Lok said, "It's very suddenly. In CONNECTED I played her (Big S) little brother. She was a very professional talented artist. It's very regrettable. May she have a safe journey."

Andy Lau Tak Wah worked with Big S in FUTURE X-COPS (MEI LOI GAING CHAT), and he expressed his condolences to Big S' family. "May you have a safe journey, condolences to the family!" In addition, the director of Barbie Hsu's 2012 film release MOTORWAY (CHEH SAU) Soi Cheang Pou Soi praised her as very daring. In one scene when Shawn Yue Man Lok drove the car around her, she insisted on personally performing it. She was completely able to handle Hong Kong film production on set situations like "flying paper", as her reaction was very fast.

Making Big S into a star with METEOR GARDEN, Taiwan "idol drama godmother" Angie Chai said, "I have no way to accept this is real. I love you very much. I would always remember your goodness! Forever Shan Cai!" Her onscreen love interest in the drama Jerry Yan also responded through his manager. "Thank you for meeting you. At a time when you were a child without any worry or care, she always said to treat everyday like it's the last, to thoroughly enjoy it. May this time you walk slowly, from here to another without any worry and be your time be peaceful!" Daniel Chan Hiu Tung worked with Big S in "Eternity: A Chinese Ghost Story" more than 20 years ago. He said that he was shocked and sad to lose such a good friend! Collaborated with Big S in SUMMER'S DESIRE, Huang Xiaoming also posted a message on Weibo in mourning, the news of Big S' death shocked him, left him heartbroken, and was difficult to accept. He said, "Her kindness, her righteousness, she helped me like a heroine. I have always been grateful. It is said that a truly brilliant soul would not be weathered by time, just as the foam in the sun is always colorful. May the cherry blossoms never fall on the other side of her journey, turning into the evening breeze and embracing the stars. She will always be the brave, strong, and beautiful Yin Xiamo in my heart."

From Big S' 2007 Taiwan television series CORNER WITH LOVE, other than lead actor Show Lo, three other actors Alien Huang, Chang Li-Wei and Big S all passed away. Show Lo yesterday posted an all black graphic and wrote "Have a Safe Journey".

Having dated Big S, Vic Chou expressed his sadness with the praying hands emoji when he replied to Taiwan media through his manager; Blue Lan's manager turned off his mobile phone. Charlie (Blackie) Chen Chien-Chou was also Big S's old flame. Even though the two broke up, they remained friends, and Big S had a good relationship with Blackie and his wife. After hearing the bad news, Fan Wei Chi (Fan Fan) posted an all-black background on social networks as she and Blackie both said, "Our hearts are broken. We are very, very sad. We will always remember her!" Big S's friend Janet Chia also posted on social platforms, "I'm so sad, so shocked, I can't accept it, I miss you."

Ruby Lin wrote in a story, "R.I.P, have a safe journey, I will always remember the beautiful you." Vivian Hsu also wrote, "Dear R.I.P., the cycle of goodness will continue, and love will always remain." Lin Chiling was very shocked and sad when she learned the news, and responded through her manager, "May she rest in peace in another world, have a safe journey." Big S attended the post wedding homecoming banquet of Taiwan "variety show godfather" Wang Wei-Chung's daughter Wang Ling on the 25th last month. She sat with Valen Hsu that night. Valen Hsu responded, "I really have no way to accept it, it is truly too, too sudden!"

Wang Xiaofei's mother, Zhang Lan, posted a short video yesterday morning. "Don't envy anyone, be brave and be yourself, and let your light illuminate the way forward." Her expression of personal feeling upset some online. They were upset at her promotion for herself when the news of the death of her former daughter-in-law Big S came out, and left messages to denounce her. However some also supported Zhang Lan, pointing out that Wang Xiaofei and Big S were already divorced. Zhang Lan was living a normal life.

In the midst of the controversy, Zhang Lan left a message of condolences on TikTok. "The deceased comes first, may Yue'er's mother rest in peace! Please also send my condolences to Mama Hsu! Wang Xiaofei and I, as the relatives of the children, are willing to help if there is any need in the affairs. Barbie's passing is a loss to us as well, and an even heavier blow to the children! Our priority now is to comfort and protect our two children, which is our common mission and common goal. Once again, we express our regret! May Barbie have a safe journey!"

In 2016 when giving birth to her son, Big S had a seizure and once lost heartbeat and breathing. She almost lost her life on the operating table. Big S once talked about her "open-minded view of life and death" on a show, saying, "After I gave birth, I almost couldn't come back a few times; especially after the second child, that is, I took a walk toward the gate of hell. So I began to know that my body sometimes will suddenly stop moving and not running. I began to have this habit, often I will record what I want to talk about recently, and explain some things that should be explained. Because I have that experience of death, near-death experience, I'm going to treat every day as if it's the last; but I don't feel sad or anything, because it's the only way to go and I'm going to face it properly. I think life and death are fated, and wealth is determined in heaven."

After Big S married Koo Jun-yup in 2022, metaphysician Chen Chiyi once told a fortune for Big S. "Everything is unfavorable at the moment. If she doesn't recuperate well for three to five years, it will be difficult for the luck to recover. Now she is in such a hurry to enter the next marriage, which is making matter worse for herself. At the least the marriage would change, at the worse it would harm her health luck and damage her longevity." Big S also mentioned on the show that someone told her fortune, saying that she would not live to be 50 years old. She said, "No matter what difficulties I encounter, I can go on. No matter what happens, at worst I will die. I just think the world after death is very beautiful." Now it became a prophecy for Big S.

[2025.02.04] HIT N FUN, MY BEST BET TOP LUNAR NEW YEAR BOX OFFICE

With plenty of ideas, Charlene Choi jokes that she would go to the airport to welcome visitors and promote

Louise Wong attends many audience appreciation events and even stands by the box office to talk up the movie

Samantha Ko and Kenneth Ma visits many cinemas to thank the audience
courtesy of on.cc

Tommy Chu, Alan Yeung, Charlene Choi and Louis Cheung go to the cinemas to thank the audience for their film MY BEST BET and interact with viewers

German Cheung, director Albert Mak, and Jozev Lau thank the audience at their film HIT N FUN. The 3 have prepared boxer shorts for Tony Wu to fulfill his box office promise with later

Stanley Yau receives a mouse pad of his chest muscle photo and cannot help but smile from his heart

CREATION OF THE GODS II exceeded HK$ 4.96 million and came in third during the Lunar New Year

PADDINGTON IN PERU, LEGEND OF CONDOR HEROES and QUEEN OF MAHJONG came in fourth, fifth and sixth place
courtesy of mingpao.com

After the Lunar New Year holiday, Hong Kong Box Office Limited (an organization of the Hong Kong Motion Picture Industry Association and the Hong Kong Cinemas Association) announced yesterday that during the 2025 Lunar New Year, the 5-day box office total revenue of Chinese and foreign films from Lunar New Year's Eve to the fourth day of the new year (January 28th to February 1st) was HK$ 30,603,031. Compared with HK$ 48,641,886 in the same period of the Lunar New Year in 2024, a decrease was 37.1%. The drop was greater at 59.3% when compared with 2019 before the novel coronavirus pandemic (box office in the same period in 2019, HK$ 75,195,909). The top two Lunar New Year spots were both Hong Kong films, HIT N FUN topped the list with more than HK$ 7.47 million yuan, followed by MY BEST BET with nearly HK$ 5.8 million. The mainland film CREATION OF THE GODS II received about HK$ 4.18 million and ranked third.

This year three Hong Kong-made films greeted the audience, including the Louis Koo Tin Lok, Gigi Leung Wing Kei, Louise Wong Dan Nei, Chrissie Chau Sau Na, Tony Wu Tsz Tung and others starred HIT N FUN, the Charlene Choi Cheuk Yin (Ah Sa) and Louis Cheung Kai Chung starred MY BEST BET and Kenneth Ma Kwok Ming and Samantha Ko Hoi Ning starred QUEEN OF MAHJONG.

The Hong Kong Box Office Co., Ltd. yesterday announced the five-day movie box office from Lunar New Year's Eve to the fourth day of the new year, as well as the cumulative box office of Chinese and foreign films as of February 2nd. HIT N FUN became the top Lunar New Year film with more than HK$ 8.52 million, MY BEST BET ranked second with about HK$ 7.22 million. The third place CREATION OF THE GODS II received more than HK$ 4.96 million, followed by PADDINGTON IN PERU that combined with live-action performance and animation with HK$ 3.98 million, and the Tsui Hark directed mainland film THE LEGEND OF THE CONDOR HEROES: THE GALLANTS with HK$ 3 million, and QUEEN OF MAHJONG with HK$ 2.57 million.

The Lunar New Year films HIT N FUN (LUM SI KUET DAU) and MY BEST BET (CHEUNG DOH BIT YANG) both won at the box office. The box office of HIT has exceeded HK$ 8 million since its release on the Lunar 29th before the new year (January 28th) and the day before yesterday (February 2nd); the box office of MY also exceeded HK$ 8 million from its release to yesterday (February 3rd), and even became the single-day box office champion on the fifth day of the Lunar New Year the day before yesterday.

On the fifth day of the Lunar New Year, director Albert Mak Kai Kwong, together with leading actors Louise Wong Dan Nei, Kathy Wong Chung Yan and Henry Chan Hin Lok, visited cinemas in the New Territories to meet the audience. Louise even went to the ticket office of various cinemas to greet the audience with New Year blessings. She even became her role of advertising strong woman and personally recommended good movies.

On the fourth day of the Lunar New Year (February 1st), the director, together with German Cheung Man Kit and Jozev Lau (Kiu Ching Fu), went to major cinemas in Kowloon to thank the audience. Earlier Wu Tsz Tung said that if the box office would exceed HK$ 40 million he would attend an audience appreciation event in hot pants. The trio even prepared many pairs of boxer shorts for Wu Tsz Tung to keep his promise and "pay his bill". Cheung Man Kit joked, "The shorts are for Wu Tsz Tung. In the film some idiot always wears shorts. He promised that he would wear shorts to thank the audience. Everyone knows how cold it is now. Appearing in shorts would be very strange." When asked when German would wear something low cut to fulfill his promise, German responded, "Then we will have to see when the audience will enter the theaters and see it again."

On the day of German's audience appreciation shows, another Lunar New Year film MY BEST BET's team also went to the theater to thank the audience. Since they were unable not meet, German left a challenge for his friends as encouragement. He wished both HIT N FUN and MY BEST BET success, and hoped that Hong Kong films will turn into a full bloom. "If I see you, I will definitely start a fight."

On the other hand, a group of actors from BEST has also been thanking audiences in the past few days. They even broke the tradition and appeared at the box office to canvass for votes in the form of to call on everyone to buy tickets to support Hong Kong films. Among them, Tommy Chu Pak Hong as the Chinese-Korean mixed-race Ian Suen Oppa has become the new favorite of the audience. Under the cheer of everyone at the audience appreciation show he gave an impromptu K-Pop dance performances and everyone started the wave to push the atmosphere to a climax. MIRROR member Stanley Yau Si Chun said that his eyes were wide open. Louis Cheung Kai Chung, Charlene Choi Cheuk Yin (Ah Sa) and Alan Yeung Wai Lun (Ah Lun) even dressed as the god of love Cupid, and shot the anti-gambling rubber band to the audience. The scene was funny and full of joy. Ah Lun as the jinx king of hell imitated ALL FOR THE WINNER's "Lord Hung" Paul Chun Pui and spoke with his hand around his throat, which was subtle. Stanley received gifts from many fans. When he said a mousepad with his topless photo, he could not help but smile from the heart. Cheung Kai Chung and Chu Pak Hong praised the craftsmanship as top notch.

Ah Chung said, "The ticket office itself isn't that prosperous, but after we appeared, the line coiled up like dried snake cakes and like at a flower market. Our sincerity actually has taken a step forward for Hong Kong's industry." Ah Sa conspired and said, "We have other ideas. Right now a lot of people are traveling for the Lunar New Year, so we will go to the airport to pick everyone up, campaign all the way to the airport reception hall in Chek Lap Kok. We hope that more people will return to Hong Kong to spend, go to the theater to watch the movie, and revitalize the economy!"