From: NO TOP TEN CENTRAL Newsgroups: alt.asian-movies,soc.culture.hongkong.entertainment Subject: [TAKE OVER] HKSAR Film No Top 10 Box Office (February 21 2008) Organization: Chaffing Heart Club (TM) The following publication contains material that might be objectionable to some readers. Parental guidance and reader discretion are advised. [FLUFF OF THE WEEK] Courtesy of Ming Pao, Sing Tao Daily, Apple Daily, Oriental Daily, and Ta Kung Pao 1. THIS TOP 10 IS DEDICATED TO A. Mavis Fan Hiu Huen who celebrates her birthday on the 27th B. Maggie Siu Mei Kei who celebrates her birthday on the 27th C. Jackie Chan whose father passed away on the 26th at the age of 93. D. Jingle Ma Chor Sing who celebrates his birthday on the 26th E. Kenny Bee (Chung Chun To) who celebrates his birthday on the 23rd * (2/27/2008) The South China Morning Post and Harper's Bazaar organized Style Award 2008 took place two nights ago. Guests included Wong Kar Wai, Carina Lau Ka Ling, Shu Qi, Vindy Lee and other Asian standouts. Shu Qi arrived late and after accepting the award left in a hurry for Taiwan. She was late due to a meeting for her new film and left early for a morning job in Taiwan. In the past year Shu Qi almost has been in a half rest state. Her return to the film would be a comedy for Media Asia. She hoped that her new start in film would not be too heavy. The production would take three months. Right now she has been preparing for pre-production but she could not revealed the story, character, director and co-stars yet. * (2/27/2008) Jackie Chan's father Charlie Chan (Fong Do Lung) yesterday yesterday passed away in Hong Kong at the age of 93. Having just celebrated his 93rd birthday in December, Papa Lung lately due to poor health had to remain at the hospital for treatment. Unfortunately he endured until yesterday. Jackie Chan was working on a film in Beijing and could not send his father on his way. However his son Jaycee Chan (Fong Cho Ming), wife Lam Fung Giu and former manager Willie Chan Chi Keung were by Papa Lung's side throughout the process. Papa Lung was also named Chan Chi Ping. Claiming to be from Shandong, he fled during the Chinese civil war to Hong Kong as his compatriots introduced him and his wife to work at the U.S. Consulate in Hong Kong. He worked in the kitchen while Ma Lung worked in laundry. They had Jackie Chan and named him Chan Kong Sun. When he was 6 and a half the U.S. consulate was promoted to become the ambassador in Australia. He hired Mr. and Mrs. Chan Chi Ping to come along but not their child. Papa Lung sent Jackie Chan to Yu Jim Yuen to be a Beijing opera student. When he completed his training at 17 he changed to his stage name Chan Yuen Lung and worked on movies. Later he again changed his name to Sing Lung and rose to fame with SNAKE IN EAGLE'S SHADOW (SEH YING DIU SAU) and DRUNKEN MASTER (JUI KUEN). Later he went to Hollywood and became an international superstar. In 1982 he wed Taiwan star Lam Fung Giu and had a son named Chan Cho Ming. Later Cho Ming returned to his ancestral root and renamed himself Fong Cho Ming. Reportedly Lam Fung Giu and Cho Ming have been working on sending Papa Lung's remain to Australia to be buried with Mama Lung. Jackie Chan who has always been filial would try to Australia for the funeral. A member of the Jackie Chan Stuntman Association and one of his assistant, Ken Low Wai Kwong expressed yesterday that he only received the news yesterday. As far as he knew, Big Brother Jackie Chan's Beijing shoot has already wrapped. In other words Big Brother would have time to properly handle his father's funeral. Simon Yam Tat Wa just learned about Papa Lung's passing. Recently Lydia Shum Din Ha has left as well. He knew that everyone would be upset but they perhaps have gone to live in a quiet peace and he hoped that everyone would cherish the friends around them more. Sammo Hung Kam Bo expressed that when he was young he constantly saw Papa Lung. Because Jackie Chan was famous for being filial and Papa Lung also enjoyed a long life, he believed that the senior would have been happy. However he has not been in contact with Jackie Chan for a long time and has not consoled him because he did not know what to say. * (2/27/2008) Mandarin Film distribution company chair Raymond Wong Pak Ming today led Wilson Yip Wai Shun, Sammo Hung Kam Bo and Donnie Yen Chi Tan to Wing Chun place of original Foshan for the martial art epic YIP MUN. This film would be based on Wing Chun master of a generation Yip Mun's story. The production start still has not been confirmed. Reportedly, this film would team Yip Wai Shun with Yen Chi Tan again as the director. With his martial art background Hung Kam Bo would be the action director. Martial art star Yen Chi Tan who has been rather popular in Mainland would play Yip Mun. Wong Pak Ming expressed that many movies about Wing Chun have been made but no one has never made a movie about Wing Chun master Yip Mun. "Thus I hope through the movie to bring Yip Mun's legend to the silver screen." He also said, conceivably with the strong team the movie would be able to demonstrate the true meaning of Chinese Wing Chun. At the Foshan Yip Mun Hall, Yen Chi Tan demonstrated on the wooden men and attracted many locals to look on and take photos. The response was tremendous and his popularity was soaring. "What enormous pressure!" When asked about playing Yip Mun, Yen Chi Tan kept on repeating that phrase. He expressed, Yip Mun was a Wing Chun master of a generation and the mentor his idol Bruce Lee. This film would have many household names. Master Yip Mun's story also had historical value. He did not want to disappoint Yip Mun's family and all Wing Chun style masters. Yen Chi Tan also said, "Over several months I would have no way to completely absorb all the essence of Wing Chun. I can only rely on my own gong fu background and film technique for this movie. I would give my best effort to interpret this character's demeanor and aura." "I have been in the character of Yip Mun for several months." Yen Chi Tan expressed, he has been busier lately due to many new films. However in order to get into character sooner he also has taken time to study Wing Chun. In addition through Yip Mun's family he tried to get an understanding of his life and especially Yip Mun and Bruce Lee's relationship. He said, he has been fully prepared for the new film and was confident to play this role well. "This movie will be different from my earlier action films as I am purely an actor. The action creation and design will all be Big Brother Hung Kam Bo's responsibility." Yen Chi Tan expressed that this time he would only have to concentrate on playing this role well. As for Wong Kar Wai approaching Tony Leung Chiu Wai for the similar subject film YIP MUN, many felt that these two films would be obviously different. One would be strongly artistic and the other would be a commercial action film. Yen Chi Tan expressed, he was not afraid of comparison. Each person would have his own unique quality. Leung Chiu Wai's acting ability has been great, which he would not dare to rival. "Yet I believe the character of Yip Mun would require certain martial art abilities." * (2/26/2008) The Hong Kong Entertainment Expo ambassador for the fourth year in a row, Tony Leung Chiu Wai yesterday attended the 4th annual Hong Kong Entertainment Expo press conference with other guests like business and economic development council secretary Ma Si Hung, Raymond Chow Man Wai, Gordon Chan Ka Seung, and Ng Yu. Last year at the same time, Wai Jai was asked about Carina Lau Ka Ling and Taiwan tycoon Terry Gou's rumor. This year the media asked him about their wedding date. Wai Jai naturally was much happier but due to scheduling conflict even though they have planned to wed for years they were not able to. Luck would determine whether they would this year. Wai Jai expressed that in recent years they have had wedding plans. Although the Hong Kong film industry has been in a depression, he still has been so busy and has not have time. He joked, "This year whether I will be able to wed luck would determine. Ultimately men are no match for nature. I will announce any result to everyone." Since they have planned to wed for years, why would only in the recent year or so would they show any sign? Wai Jai joked that perhaps he has reached this age and with their parents still around the time has come to seriously consider it. He expressed that it was not as simple as having a baby. Have Ka Ling's recent rumors driven them to wed? Wai Jai stressed that age was the factor. Now they are in their forties, would they wait until their sixties? Then they would be in different shapes. Wai Jai pointed out that this year he would be just as busy at work. First he had to promote the Hong Kong Entertainment Expo. In May he would attend the Cannes Film Festival, in June he had to start Wing Chun training for Wong Kar Wai's YIP MUN JUEN (YIP MUN BIOGRAPHY). As for Wong Pak Ming's plan for another Yip Mun film, Wai Jai pointed out that their production angles. Wa Jai with LUST, CAUTION (SIK GAI) was nominated for a Asian Film Best Actor Award. He felt that competitions depended on luck and he was already happy about the nomination, which represented his performance was recognized. Wai Jai felt Lydia Shum Din Ha's passing was regrettable. She was a veteran actress who would worthy to learn from and of respect. Her spirit would remain forever. In addition, Ma Si Hung at the event expressed that Fei Jeh's passing was a loss to the entertainment industry. Fei Jeh's position would be irreplaceable. The event also had a moment of silence in memory of Fei Jeh. * (2/26/2008) The Sundream distributed THREE KINGDOMS THE RESURRECTION OF THE DRAGON (SAM GOK ji GEIN LUNG SEH GAP) will be released in April. Andy Lau Tak Wa played Zhao Zilong. With Big Brother Sammo Hung Kam Ho they played brothers amid danger. Maggie Q played Cao Cao's granddaughter Cao Ying. Maggie Q for the first time played an ancient Chinese woman, which she honestly said that this character was full of challenge. "I feel this is completely different from what I know. From playing a Chinese person, martial art level, weapon to costume, everything to me has been very fresh." Having worked with Maggie Q years ago, Wa Jai had nothing but praise for Maggie Q's effort. He said, "Maggie Q and I years ago have worked on a modern film. At the time she only needed to deliver English lines. Yet this time she had to perform in a costume film. I saw her spending a long time on practicing her Putonghua and a lot of effort on martial art and horse riding. Hopefully this film would be able to show the audience her other side." On the other hand, Wa Jai and Big Brother Hung Kam Bo have known each other for over 20 years but this was their first on screen collaboration. Wa Jai said, "Big Brother truly is like a Big Brother who gives people the impression of someone who is stable and can hold his own. In terms of martial art and horse riding, he has provided me with a lot of suggestions. I hope this collaboration would just be a start and in the future we would have even more chance to collaborate." * (2/24/2008) Stephen Fung Tak Lun yesterday worked on a short film for a commercial product. The short film will be aired on March 2 at the product's event. He cast former girlfriend Karen Mok Man Wai and Daniel Wu (Ng Yin Cho) in the leads. Yesterday they shot on location at an old style hair salon. This was Fung Tak Lun and Mok Man Wai's first collaboration since their breakup; but during the group photo Fung Tak Lun deliberately walked away. Working with Fung Tak Lun again, Karen said that they have always worked pleasantly together. She felt that Fung Tak Lun was different from before. Work was still work and they were very professional. Fung Tak Lun was also very happy that everyone would be so helpful. He felt that working together was no different. Would he have a chance to get back together? He honestly said that he would not. This collaboration was purely professional. Stephen directed TIU CHOOK HUI (DANCE OUT). Reportedly lead actor Edison Chen Koon Hei due to the photo incident would have his role removed. He felt that Edison's performance in the film was very fitting. He has already apologized and the matter should come to an end. He would insist on keeping Edison's role and hope that it would not be cut out. Yet he heard that Columbia has already issued a letter that Edison's role would be removed. Ultimately he was not an investor and he was not in charge. As for rumors that Ng Yin Cho would replace Chen Koon Hei's role, Fung Tak Lun pointed out that he already was a guest star in the film and for now has not discussed the replacement issue. This film originally was scheduled for a May 1 release but now it definitely would be postponed. He honestly said that at first he was afraid that the audience would boycott Edison and once has complained, "Come on"; but earlier Edison has already explained himself and everyone should give him a chance. * (2/23/2008) The film L FOR LOVE L FOR LIES (NGOR DIK JUI OI)'s actors Alex Fong Lik Sun, Stephy Tang Lai Yun and Taiwan actress Alice Tsang Hoi Won yesterday talked about their production experience on a RoadShow program. Even with rumored girlfriend Stephy next to him, Siu Fong praised Tsang Hoi Won as gentle and pretty. He honestly said that he felt like he has been electrocuted but she has been passive. They rarely chatted so he still could not get her phone number. He joked that he was not impatient and warmed up slowly as well. * (2/23/2008) Stephen Fung Tak Lun and Karen Mok Man Wai remained friends after their breakup. Next month he would attend a Mainland film festival and has been invited to make a ten minute short film. He invited Mok Man Wai and Daniel Wu (Ng Yin Cho) to perform. The short film would take place in the 60's and the story would travel through time. Mok Man Wai and Ng Yin Cho would perform on stage at the film festival. Why did he approach his former girlfriend for the performance? Stephen said, "Because the character has a little classical flavor and with the nostalgic jazz music I need someone who can sing and dance. She is the suitable choice." Has the experience been awkward or an omen to a reconciliation? He said, "I have already spoken about the romantic issue, I don't have to say more about our relationship. This time is purely work. Earlier we have worked together many times and we already have chemistry. I hope in the future we still would have the chance to work together." * (2/23/2008) Kelly Chen Wai Lam has started THE EMPRESS AND THE WARRIORS (GONG SAN MEI YUN) promotion. Two days ago she promoted in Taiwan and yesterday she shared the joy and pain of her first costume wuxia film. At night she was a special guest at a International Heavenly Lantern prayer ceremony. Chen Wai Lam wished for all Taiwan viewer's wishes and dreams in the new year to come true and prayed for THE EMPRESS AND THE WARRIORS' China, Hong Kong and Taiwan box office success. Chen Wai Lam happily expressed, "Watching the Heavenly Lanterns fly, I believe that THE EMPRESS AND THE WARRIORS' box office would remain hot and start another wuxia film fever in three lands on two shores." Chen Wai Lam in the film played Princess Feier who excelled in archery and horse riding. She said that half a year before production she has dropped all of her work for the strict horse riding and martial art training. Director Ching Siu Tung even personally instructed her in swords, hand to hand combat, staff and other martial art training. Although from training for the movie she suffered injuries all over she still excitedly said, "Playing a horse riding archer princess for my first costume film, the challenge was truly very difficult. Although wearing the heavy metal armor and shooting an arrow were very tough, the result was not the same." Chen Wai Lam in the film had a moving romance with the Leon Lai Ming played retired hero. They not only had a fiery bed scene but also traveled in a special bird nest Heavenly Lantern. Thus she was invited to be the special guest at the Heavenly Lantern festival and appeared with her and Lai Ming's movie theme song FLY WITH THE DREAM (CHUI MUNG YI FEI) music video. * (2/23/2008) The film PLAYBOY COPS (FA FA YING GAING) two nights ago held its premiere. Director Jingle Ma Chor Sing led the cast including Shawn Yue Man Lok, Linda Chung Ka Yun, Chen Kun, Shaun Tam Chun Yin, Wong Yau Nam and guest star Ella Koon Yun Na in attendance. The event arranged for the cast to choose their ideal lover. Chen Kun honestly said that his ideal lover would look like Chung Ka Yun. Ah Lok revealed that this year he has already worked on three films. In May he would attend the Cannes Film Festival. For Chung Ka Yun's first female lead in a film, TVB producer Lee Tim Sing two nights ago attended with a group of artists. * (2/23/2008) Louis Koo Tin Lok, Nick Cheung Ka Fai, Barbie Shui (Tsui Hei Woon) and Flora Chan Wai San yesterday worked on the Benny Chan Muk Sing directed new film BO CHI TUNG WA (KEEP IN TOUCH)'s final scene at the airport parking lot. Everyone had to rescue the hostage in the drizzle. The film company hired extras to play cops, reporters and pedestrians. The embrace scene later was Koo Tin Lok and Tsui Hei Woon's only scene together. Big S' make up yesterday had blood on her lips. She said that her embrace scene with Goo Jai was very reasonable. Instead a kiss scene would have been very strange. Big S on this trip to Hong Kong has bought over ten pairs of shoes. She joked that she has spent all of her salary. Goo Jai expressed that he and Big S had emotional scenes through the phone. Chan Wai San worked on her first film after giving birth and only guest starred for a few days. In the film she played Goo Jai's sister. She revealed that her daughter was five months old and said honestly that being a mother was not easy. She thought that their first Lunar New Year as a family of three was very special and she would like to have another child. * (2/22/2008) The 32nd Annual Hong Kong International Film Festival press conference yesterday took place at the Tsim Sha Tsui Cultural Center. This year's film festival would take place between March 17 and April 6. Eric Tsang Chi Wai has been selected this year's film festival program Filmmaker in Focus. After over 30 years in the business, Chi Wai would like to spend the 40th anniversary of his career like Lydia Shum Din Ha with a group of friends. At the press conference the Hong Kong International Film Festival Association chair Wong Ying Wai presented a certificate to Chi Wai. Chi Wai's protege director Wong Ching Po gathered past classic Chi Wai performances as a surprise gift to Chi Wai. "Filmmaker in Focus : Eric Tsang" would screen 8 movies that Chi Wai participated and starred in. His latest production trilogy WINDS OF SEPTEMBER (GAU GONG FUNG) would also be screened. Chi Wai after watching Wong Ching Po's footage joked that he thought surprise gifts were crystal and glass that he would not know where to put. He never expected it to be a film. After watching he discovered that his performance was actually very "mixed", as he has done everything from janitor to on and off screen. He said that also might be the specialty of Hong Kong. This year's Hong Kong International Film Festival opening films would be the Yoji Yamada directed, Tadanobu Asano starred KABEI - OUR MOTHER and the Taiwan film SOUL OF A DEMON (WU DIP). The closing films would be the Shu Kei and Mandrew Kwan Man Hin directed, Kate Yeung Kei starred COFFEE OR TEA and the Martin Scorsese directed SHINE A LIGHT. Other movies that would premiere at the film festival included the Ann Hui On Wa directed THE WAY WE ARE (TIN SHUI WAI DIK YUT YU YEH) and the Vincent Chui Won Shun directed LOE IS ELSEWHERE (OI CHING MAN SHUI), the stars of which, Yumiko Cheng Hei Yi, Sherman Chung Shu Man, Ken Hung Cheuk Lap, Chow Pak Ho and Tong So Kei yesterday attended the press conference. The movie was the first for both Chung Shu Man and Hung Cheuk Lap. They were very happy during the shoot. Because both were new they did not hae too much stress. Hung Cheuk Lap even gave his first on screen kiss to Cheng Hei Yi. The kiss scene had four bad takes, which Yumiko attributed to different angle shoots. Hung Cheuk Lap said that the director knew about his shyness and deliberately arranged for this scene to be shot last. During the shoot he even asked the make up artist and the hairstylist ot to stare at him, otherwise it would have been very awkward. Hung Cheuk Lap would like a sequel, but the host expressed that since the film has not been released yet he should not have too much expectation. Hui On Wa expressed that a year ago she originally wanted to make a story about the Tin Shui Wai family tragedy, but later due to issues the production was halted. Since she has already done the research, she recently used Tin Shui Wai as the backdrop again for a normal family story. She would like everyone to understand that Tin Shui Wai did not only have tragedy but also was a place to settle down. She joked that maybe later she would move to Tin Shui Wai too. * (2/22/2008) Emperor Entertainment Group held its spring banquet last night. Attendees included Joey Yung Cho Yi, Charlene Choi Cheuk Yin, Kenny Kwan Chi Bun, Jaycee Chan (Fong Cho Ming) but Gillian Chung Yun Tung and Nicholas Tse Ting Fung did not attend. Edison Chen Koon Hei has publicly apologized for the "obscene photo" fiasco and announced that he would retire from show business, which Mani Fok Man Hei expressed that she only wanted the matter to settle quickly and the company would not respond any further. Supposedly Ah Gil was kicked off the MEI LANFANG film project, which Mani denied that director Chen Kaige disliked Ah Gil. The film was delayed a month in production and Ah Gil's schedule could not coordinate. After a few days of shooting she wrapped up. The film TIU CHOOK HUI (DANCE OUT)'s director Stephen Fung Tak Lun felt that Chen Koon Hei was good in bravely admitting his mistake and the public apology was very sincere. Earlier the film was rumored to cut out Chen Koon Hei's part. He expressed that Stephen Chow Sing Chi has not met with Columbia yet but he as the director definitely would fight to keep his role. * (2/22/2008) Earlier THE EMPRESS AND THE WARRIORS (GONG SAN MEI YUN)'s director Ching Siu Tung and actor Donnie Yen Chi Tan attended the film's Beijing press event. Both expressed that working together has been quite a pleasure. Ching Siu Tung was very happy to be able to land Yen Chi Tan for the film and said that Yen Chi Tan today is not the same as Yen Chi Tan of the past. When they made NEW DRAGON INN (SUN LUNG MOON HAT JANG) over ten years ago he was a gong fu kid; today he has already become the only superstar who could rival Jet Li (Lee Nin Kit). This time he "beg" him to return to help him. Yen Chi Tan humbly expressed that he was very honored to be able to work with Ching Siu Tung. "Ching Siu Tung is an action director who I respect very much. I was able to learn many different things in working with Director Ching." Yen Chi Tan has worked with Ching Siu Tung on NEW DRAGON INN and HERO. Actually Yen Chi Tan has been injured three times in his career, two of which was with Ching Siu Tung. Although they were superficial wounds, he had to wear heavy armor for his role. Even the experienced Yen Chi Tan recalled, "Very exhausting!" Both were very confident in THE EMPRESS AND THE WARRIORS. Ching Siu Tung confidently said, "The movie that I have made wouldn't be too bad, everyone would like it." Yen Chi Tan said, "The movie that I have performed in also wouldn't be too bad, and with Ching Siu Tung as the director, everyone would like it." * (2/22/2008) Shawn Yue Man Lok has spent two months on boxing lessons and other action oriented training for SHAMO (GWUN GAI). Action director Wong Wai Leung even arranged for private karate and mixed martial art instructors for him. Everyday he trained for four hours and hence he bulked up. With his self proclaimed fear of height, Ah Lok even performed the most dangerous scene for the film. He said, "One scene was shot on the roof of a building in Thailand. I had to train to defeat Naoto Sugasawa. The director and I knew that sit up and pull up in front of the camera lacked innovation. The director suggested an attempt of pull up on the roof's metal racks. When I did them I only had two mountain climber ropes around my body. This action needed to be shot in one take because several more would tire out the arms and chill the heart. Actually I at the time really wanted to tell the director I had a fear of heights but for this movie I had to tough it out!" Earlier Yue Man Lok went to Japan for local media interviews about the film. "Although this trip was very intense with nearly 100 press interviews, meeting with the original creator Mr. Hashimoto was the rarest as we attended the press screening together." * (2/21/2008) Annie Liu (Lau Sum Yau) yesterday attended a cosmetic product press conference. Sum Yau expressed that she has been studying Japanese because her next film character would speak Japanese. Yet she could not revealed any detail about the film yet. * (2/21/2008) The Linda Chung Ka Yun, Shawn Yue Man Lok, Chen Kun and Shaun Tam Chun Yin starred PLAYBOY COPS (FA FA YING GAING) has already wrapped, but one scene was particularly bloody. In it Tam Chun Yin had to threaten Yue Man Lok to fight with Chen Kun until he saw bloody. He held Ka Yun to threaten Lok Jai and finally Ka Yun even had her finger chopped off. Originally the screenplay did not have this scene. The director added it last minute on the set. Tam Chun Yin held a broken glass bottle and cut off Ka Yun's finger. Although the glass was prop glass she still suffered injury on the back of her hand. Due to her fear of blood when she saw blood all over her hand she immediately shed tears and looked pitiful as if her finger was truly cut off. Finally this scene took nearly ten takes before the director accepted it. * (2/21/2008) The Hong Kong International Film Festival Association organized Asian Film Award would take place on March 17. This year's Asian Film Award added two honorary awards, the Asian Film Lifetime Achievement Award and the Edward Yang Memorial Asian New Talent Award that would honor film professionals with excellent contribution and performance in the industry. The Asian Film Lifetime Achievement Award winner would be the Japanese film master Yoji Yamada. Aside from the Hong Kong International Film Festival opening film KABEI - OUR MOTHER, for his classic film character Torajiro Kuruma's 40th anniversary Yoji Yamada has selected TORA-SAN 17 to be screened with the other 19 Asian Film Award nominated films at the film festival. In addition, the first Edward Yang Memorial Asian New Talent Award winner would be the new Japanese filmmaker Yuya Ishii. The event even invited director Edward Yang Tak Cheung's widow Pang Hoi Lap and son Sean Yang to attend the ceremony and present the award as encouragement. The creation of the Edward Yang Memorial Asian New Talent Award not only extended Yang Tak Cheung's selfish spirit of helping the younger generation but also further recognized Director Yang's excellent artistic achievement. The award at the same time deepened the representation and the depth of meaning of the Asian Film Award's honor of Asian film professionals. [ BLAH OF THE WEEK ] Columns, Reviews, Interviews . MING PAO DAILY, FEBRUARY 2008, FILM WORDS - SHEK KEI (http://www.cultureshot.net/seekkeiluklei) . MING PAO DAILY, FEBRUARY 2008, FILM AND TELEVISION OBSERVATIONS - KWOK HIN CHING . TA KUNG PAO, FEBRUARY 2008, WEEKLY STAR - SIU () . TA KUNG PAO, FEBRUARY 2008, LIGHT SHADOW PATH - TIN LIK . TA KUNG PAO, FEBRUARY 2008, FILM AND TELEVISION TRAVERSE - CHUI HIU . TA KUNG PAO, FEBRUARY 2008, HOTSPOT PURSUIT - CHOW YI 1. MING PAO DAILY, FEBRUARY 26 2008, FILM AND TELEVISION OBSERVATIONS A REASONABLE CRISIS MANAGEMENT Edison Chen Koon Hei has appeared in public for an explanation. Although he was a little late, the writer still felt that his crisis manager has already done decently. Anyone would know that one appearance would not possibly get everyone's forgiveness. Being too melodramatic would have just added fuel to the fire. The average comment pointed out that he stood up too late, which actually has not considered the person and his personality. Has he not explained once with an online video earlier? Everyone knew how that turned out. Anyone who thought further would know that without the female artist victim first coming out, he woud not possibly admit that he took those photos. This was the most basic consideration. The damage was already done. If he only explained for himself and ignored the others, he would be even more selfish. From the entire long and winding return trip to Hong Kong and the security level, the manager was very detailed and successful. His public comment was a much better explanation than the last video explanation. Most of that response has already responded, except it did not have a question and answer segment. If you were responsible for this crisis management, would you allow Chen Koon Hei to face media's open questions? All the apologies have already been said and the accuracy of the photos have been confirmed. At the same time the problem of copyright was raised. Although some questioned whether they were suitable for publication earlier in the press, legal action might still follow. Even if the comments were made before the widespread press publication, their ability to deter the press publication would have been limited. After the fact action must be taken. Comments leaned toward Chen Koon Hei making suitable sacrifice over the matter, which was also considered. To reduce to the lowest sacrifice and at the same time to have a clear headline on papers the next days, Hong Kong show business retirement truly was well thought out. Instead the charity work promise was a little too much, doing first then talking about it later would have been better. Some comments claimed that he only admitted that he took most of the photos and not all. The writer felt that this had nothing to do with any doctored rumors. The fact was that many doctored photos could be found online. He could not possibly said they were all his. In appreciating crisis management, abandoning personal bias first would be the best. To achieve the desired result, the person had to agree. Chen Koon Hei's performance that day exceeded expectation. - KWOK HIN CHING 2. MING PAO DAILY, FEBRUARY 25 2008, FILM AND TELEVISION OBSERVATIONS ACTION COMEDY IS NOT EASY TO MAKE WELL CJ7 (CHEUNG GONG CHUT HO) on Thursday has been in release for 22 days and made 49.65 million. Everyday it still takes over 200,000 but would have difficulty to break through 60 million. This figure has already pulled away far from ENCHANTED in the cumulative chart, even though ENCHANTED had better general word of mouth than CJ7. Last week ENCHANTED accumulated 23.91 million at the box office, a rather decent performance. Third and fourth place films did not reach 10 million. SWEENEY TODD was bloody and strange. After three weeks it only made 8.46 million. This film actually was not too suitable for the Lunar New Year, unfortunately there truly was no other choice. Jay Chou (Chow Kit Lun)'s KUNG FU DUNK (GONG FU GUOON NAM) after 15 years days only lost by a nose with 8.447 million. For a Lunar New Year Chinese entertainment film, this was not a good figure. It only had half the box office of SECRET (BUT NUNG SHUET DIK BEI MUK), the film that he directed and starred in. The Mainland response was better than Hong Kong's. Reportedly it might lead to a sequel. This one could not pass 10 million in Hong Kong. Any sequel would not be favorable. Action comedy was not easy to make well. Big stars and good action directors were not hard to find, but creativity was the most difficult segment. Everyone knew that whether Hong Kong and Mainland viewers they loved to watch comedy. Not only successful examples have been few, this genre has been made less than other genres. Some said that because viewers have different demand in comedy in the two locations, pleasing both would be hard. Yet another opinion was the 80s Hong Kong comedies were able to do so. Hong Kong felt they were entertaining and Mainland viewers had just as much fun watching them. They were also popular in Taiwan and other Asian areas. The writer felt that since the 80s Hong Kong comedy has already become localized, relying on many Cantonese synonym dialogue and exaggerating local phenomenon for comedy. The market has shrunk more and more. Aside from the then 97 shadow, the production budget also had something to do with it. In the 80s star film salary has already reached the level of madness. A comedy with many big stars would already spend 70% or more of the budget. To save, visual comedy element has been reduced and the films mainly relied on Hong Kong style dialogue and star improvisation for comedy. - KWOK HIN CHING 3. TA KUNG PAO, FEBRUARY 24 2008, LIGHT SHADOW PATH SIMPLE EXPLANATION OF THE VIDEO RENTAL LAW Taking effect on April 25, the video rental law has received criticism from the film rental industry alliance. It felt that this was the copyright owner "crushing the small business". How is actually the truth? The film industry as early as three years ago has already mentioned to the government that one of its biggest difficulties has been "small business" use of retail sale only videos for illegal rental and made video revenue dive. Thus film owners has lost 30% in this area and now only had 20% remaining. The government in order to bring balance to benefits of "small business" and film owners has examined the issue for two to three years. Now video retail stores have already reduced from 200 to 300 several years ago to several dozens. Video rental stores on the other hand have sprung to over 500. In other words video retailer numbers have dropped but illegal rental thrived. Film professionals have attempted civil lawsuits against illegal rental but discovered that the "small business" has been very agile and always ready to move to escape the law. Film companies and the government studied strategies and the authorities felt that it also had to pay attention to "small business" livelihood. Film companies without any other idea released the rental and retail video categories and were willing to permit video rental with store membership registration. They never expected "small business" to be very resistant and protested. The rental alliance felt that according to the film company plan, perhaps 80 to 90% rental stores would close their doors and would drive even more people to buy pirated goods. Piracy, illegal video rental and retail actually all are acts that erode intellectual property. In the eyes of film owners they are no different. Alliance member even cited THE WARLORDS (TAU MING JONG) as an example and claimed that the two day one night rental would cost 9. If according to the distributor suggestion the cost would have to be increased to 40 to maintain profitability. Yet rental now is illegal. The writer has already visited that film's owner. They have no authorized "small business" to rent out the retail videos and theoretically can sue members of the alliance. The alliance even pointed out that illegally downloaded films have had tremendous impact on video rental business. Like piracy, illegal download and rental are not phenomenon that film companies want to see. Thieves cannot be crying thief. Even funnier, the alliance is concerned that the new law has not set distribution's price increase upper limit. In the future distributors can decide to increase prices randomly and control whether to sell all rental inventory to the stores. In other words distributors at the same time can operate rental service and create a monopoly. Did they not say that rental store business is having a hard time? Would anyone monopolize a hard to operate business? Obviously the alliance's "small business" wants to continue the illegal rental and resists any extra copyright cost. Retail store and rental store numbers have traded off. Anyone would know that "small business" is not the victim. Hopefully legislative council members would see that. - TIN LIK 4. TA KUNG PAO, FEBRUARY 24 2008, FILM AND TELEVISION TRAVERSE FAREWELL, FEI JEH! Lydia Shum Din Ha has passed away. She has left us forever. Her clear as bell crisp laughter, perm hair, butterfly glasses and chubby figure have formed the "Happy Nut" image, from now on she could only remain in video image in the depths of our memory. We so far still have no way to accept her passing as fact because she has already merged into our lives, accompanied many people through the golden age of their lives. Her show business career, not only developed along with Hong Kong's early growth but also witnessed Hong Kong's vibrancy and stability. She not only has provided us with a lot of cheer and encouragement, but also has experienced a lot of sorrow, joy, honor and shame with everyone. In this part of Hong Kong development history, Hong Kong show business history (especially television), Fei Jeh could be said as an icon. I have had many opportunities to work with her. My most memorable impression was her professionalism and serious attitude that proved the idea of "success is not purely luck". We saw her sing and dance in front of the camera, in full control of her acting, and hosting looked easy for her, even performing highly difficult acts in major events, all of which actually were the result of her hard work. Off camera she has put a lot of time to rehearse each job and tried to be her best before coming on stage. Thus her "multiple talent" was not just a term of praise. Her "substance" absolutely was real. In comparison to many performers or young idol's work attitude today, we miss her and that previous generation superstar who lived up to her name. Anyone who has worked with would now, Fei Jeh was known for her punctuality, hard work and high demand. She herself saw smart, strong memory and "save making" as praises. She not only asked those of herself but also hoped that others (especially her partners) would as well. Of course sometimes due to a variety of reasons (especially new comers) people might not necessarily meet her demand and disappoint her, but she still did her part, encouraged, protected new comers and won young artists' respect. Of course what I admired the most was, her persistence achieved her personal performance business. Although she knew that her condition was not light she insisted on battling the disease. Over a year of struggle she has been rumored to be in crisis numerous times but she has not given up. Her words at last year's TVB anniversary was truly worthy of many young artists and young people to study. - CHUI HIU 5. TA KUNG PAO, FEBRUARY 24 2008, HOTSPOT PURSUIT GO YUN YI GO While writing in memory of Fei Jeh Lydia Shum Din Ha, all the emotions flowed into the hearts for this Happy Nut who has accompanied our growth for nearly half a century. From now on we would no longer hear her boisterous laughter, no longer see her smart hosting performance. Show business has forever lost a top talent. As Chief Executive Tsang and other celebrities and officials have said: her passing was absolutely a severe loss for Hong Kong. Looking back at Fei Jeh who cancer has bed ridden, each time she has slightly recovered she appeared in public full of spirit. Even though she looked exhausted and haggard, she still insisted on living. That drive and bravery have made us sincerely cheer for her, but at the same time made our hearts ache for her as she had to bare another round and withstand even great pain. Reportedly, Fei Jeh passed away last Tuesday (the 19th) peacefully. The moment that no one dared to face still came. We can only provide her beloved and family our condolences. She has departed human suffering to another plane. We silently wish Fei Jeh could continue her gracious embrace, for her loving and joyful spirit to endure in the world. Everyone knew about Fei Jeh's superb acting ability, filial and sincere ways. For years she has acted from rising to fame to each peak and won even more applause and support. Even though due to romantic setback she was depressed, each time before she appeared on camera she would dry her tears to maintain her quality. Who would have been able to ease the sorrow and unpleasantness behind the Happy Nut? Like every kind mother who loves her children, Fei Jeh treated Yun Yi as her heart and soul. After losing Adam Cheng Siu Chau, her daughter has even become her entire life. When her daughter wanted to quit school to perform, she used her greatest patience and made a pact with her for her to wait until after she completed her university degree before developing in show business. When she knew her days were numbered, while ailing she asked her close friend Lau Ka Cheung to give her child a helping hand, former husband Chau Jai also promised to continue to take care of their daughter. Those should be the most comforting promises among Fei Jeh's unfulfilled wishes. Yun Yi who originally should have been a happy daughter, before immigrating to Canada at the age of six still did not understand the pain of her parents' separation. She only knew that seeing Daddy all the time was not easy. In her fragile heart, "Papa" was a very attractive man. Her impression of her father at the time was not clear. I have seen her as a child mistaking a Jackie Chan sticker on a reporter's camera for "Daddy". I have also seen her with Jacky Cheung Hok Yau, with her innocent smile and two little arms around her god brother and unconsciously showed a longing for fatherly love. Seeing that only made my heart ache. Over the two years as Fei Jeh's life neared its end, Yun Yi took more time to be with her and fulfilled her natural duty as a daughter to return the favor. Even viewers who once found this chubby little girl upsetting have already gradually changed their views on her. Even more were words of support and encouragement. Yun Yi has never complained and only wished that her mother's remaining time on earth could be happy and less painful. Life is limited, the sea of art has no cliff. The filial ways flow on like a river. Fei Jeh's love and regret have already faded with the winds, but conceivably her dearest Yun Yi would not give up her favorite performance work and would attempt to start a new chapter that would belong to her. Destiny comes and goes, the ever changing life ultimately still needs dreams and wishes. - CHOW YI 6. MING PAO DAILY, FEBRUARY 22 2008, FILM AND TELEVISION OBSERVATIONS THE FIRST TIME THAT THE GOVERNMENT INVESTS IN FILMMAKING The Film Development Fund has finally successfully approved two applications and invested 5.2 million on two Hong Kong films. Since the application acceptance announcement to now, about three months have passed. In estimate these two films did not apply on the first day, so the inspection process took a reasonable amount of time. The two successful applicants were MCDULL WU TANG and FA FEI FA (FLOWER NOT FLOWER), the former was the famous local cartoon label McDull series that Hong Kong people were already very familiar with. The production cost and revenue estimate should be very clear and approval would not be hard. Famous screenwriter Ong Sai's director debut FA FEI FA has Dior Cheng Yi Kin and Karena Lam Ka Yun in its cast. Although it is not a mainstream romance, but with 4.5 million production budget, the two aforementioned stars and award winning art director and cinematographer's help the project truly was a value and had very slim chance of loss. Reportedly two out of six applicants were approved. Two were still under inspection and two were rejected. In terms of application quantity the number was considered low. The government has been willing to invest. Some harsh outside comments say that film professionals are panhandling for money to make rotten films like they are on welfare. The truth is not as these people have imagined. Film professionals have not all lined up, extended their hands and got money because the money was not easy to get at all. If profit is definite, no one would spend so much effort to apply. If they could find 2/3 of the financing, how difficult would the remaining 1/3 in the first place? The writer estimated, the biggest temptation of applying would be the film could have use an even tighter budget to complete. With the government's 1/3 investment the production quality would increase. The development fund aside from direct investment should spend money on attracting even more talent to join the film industry, including assistance on building a system that enables creators to receive better return. - KWOK HIN CHING 7. MING PAO DAILY, FEBRUARY 21 2008, FILM AND TELEVISION OBSERVATIONS TALENT AND CONTINUOUS HARD WORK: HAPPY NUT The departure of Lydia Shum Din Ha has eased the negative image that the suspected artist bed photos have brought show business. At the same time of missing her, we also miss the joyful laughter that she has brought everyone in music, film and television entertainment. Sister Fei used her show business life to prove that laughter was infectious. She often broke into laughter, that innocent laughter no matter through the silver screen or television screen could spread to viewers and make viewers laugh in agreement. Laughter may be the most lovable infection. In each media report, we could see Fei Jeh's life. She was the typical previous generation artist who succeeded amid a storm. If she only relied on her naturally chubby figure, she at most would only be able to play a small cute support role in movies. She from Mandarin films performed to Cantonese films, to the Cantonese film sunset to catching Choi Wo Ping's eyes to join Hong Kong's first nightly live variety program ENJOY YOURSELF TONIGHT and demonstrating her charisma that cheered everyone up. She did not just stayed in this successful post of hosting. She even became a singer and released records. Then, she returned to the big silver. At the peak of Hong Kong film in the 80s she became the lead actress and a popular team with Bill Tung Biu as they made the IT'S MAD MAD MAD WORLD (FU GWAI BIK YUN) film series. Her ample hosting experience made her the gold label host of big shows. One after another successful changes, Fei Jeh has shown us that being an artist did not rely on talent alone. Anyone who has worked with her knew that her acting was serious. As a host she would memorize her script absolutely before appearing on stage. She absolutely would not "improvise on talent alone". Growing up in the 60s, she spoke fluent English and could perform English language situation comedy in Singapore. Back then the educational system could not match today's. Now a graduate of a English speaking nation university might not possibly act with fluent English, not to mention anyone in Hong Kong. Last generation's artists felt that they should put in an effort and would not drum it up as a big deal. Aside from Fei Jeh's laughter, she also was a new generation artists' role model. - KWOK HIN CHING [ In Production Now/Soon ] Can : Bo Chi Tung Wa Lit : Keep In Touch d. Benny Chan Muk Sing Louis Koo Tin Lok, Barbie Shui (Tsui Hei Woon), Liu Ye, Nick Cheung Ka Fai Can : Ngor Lo Por Hai Doh Sing Lit : My Old Lady Is Gambling Saint Nick Cheung Ka Fai, Meng Yao Can : Ching Toi Lit : Moss d. Kwok Chi Kin Shawn Yue Man Lok, Sin Sik Lai, Eric Tsang Chi Wai, Liu Kai Chi, Terry Fan Siu Wong, Jan Lam Kam Lin, Shaun Tam Chun Yin, Shao Yam Yam Can : Cha Ji Nui Lit : Woman of Investigation d. Alan Mak Siu Fai Sammi Cheng Sau Man, Eason Chan Yik Shun, Richie Jen (Yam Yin Chai) Can : Si Lim Lit : Reminisce d. Wai Ka Fai Lau Ching Wan, Kelly Lin (Lam Hei LUi), Yan Qing, Jo Kuk Cho Lam Can : Giu, Won Lit : Call, Soul Grace Ip Pui Man, Carl Ng Ka Lung, Jolie Chan Yuen Kei, Raymond Wong Ho Yin, Chucky Wood Gei Lan, Kwok Hoi San Can : Ang Hong Lit : Tough Guy Anthony Wong Chau Sun, Ellen Chan Nga Lun, Liu Ye, Sun Honglei FANTASTIC WATER BABES Can : Chook Shui Fu Yung Lit : Out of Water Hibiscus d. Jeff Lau Chun Wai Gillian Chung Yun Tung, Alex Fong Lik Sun, Stephen Fung Tak Lun, Tian Liang, Eva Huang Shengyi, Official Site : www.emp.hk [ OFFICIAL SITE ] A beautiful and cocky swimmer Jill and her teammates kidnaps Alex, Hong Kong's champion swimmer, in order that he can train her to win a duel against her rival in swimming and in love. All hell breaks loose when hate at first sight inadvertently becomes something else... Can : Kit Ji Lit : Scorpion d. Joe Ma Wai Ho Sam Lee Chan Sam, Emme Wong Yee Man, Leung Siu Lung, Miki Mizuno (Shui Yeh Mei Gei), Nana Natsume (Ha Muk Noi Noi) Can : Hat Sei Nei Lit : Scare You To Death Sam Lee Chan Sam, Elanne Kong Yeuk Lam, Tommy Yuen Man On Can : Hok Hau Hak Sai Lik Lit : School Mob Power Jordan Chan Siu Chun, Lee Si Pui, Annie Man Chung Han, Lui Hoi Yun Ada Wong Chi Hom, Timmy Hung Tin Ming Can : Goo Mo Mui Ying Lit : Ancient Tomb Phantom d. Chan Kwoon Wai Chin Kar Lok, Yuen Wah, Candy Lo Hau Yam Can : SI GUONG DOI LAU DIK WA Lit : IF TIME FLOWS BACKWARD d. Mak Kai Kwong Fiona Sit Hoi Kei, Kenny Kwan Chi Bun, Yan Ng Yat Yin, Ken Wong Hap Hei, Karen Tong Bo Yu NEW PERFECT EDUCATION Can : Sun Gum Sut Pui Yuk ji Oi Dik Fu Lo Lit : New Chamber Cultivated Desire: Captive of Love d. Ng Man Lik Kaori Sakagami (Ban Seung Heung Jik) Tony Ho Wa Chiu, Vonnie Lui Hoi Yu Can : Jin Fu Lit : War Tiger Eric Tsang Chi Wai, Kristy Yang Kung Yu, Julian Cheung Chi Lam, Lam Ka Tung, Candy Yu On On, Guo Xinqi (Kwok Sam Kei), Jason Chu Wing Tong, Koey Leung Shuet Mei, Iris Wong Yat Tung, Pavarit Mongkolpisit Nahatai Lekbumrung, Yunee Can : Mo Yau 24 Siu Si Lit : Worry Free 24 Hours Chiu Chung Yu, Natalie Ng Man Yan, Simon Loui Yu Yeung, Siu Chuen Yung, Carl Ng Ka Lung, Libby Lao Kuai Ieng Can : Nui Kuen Wong Lit : Female Fist King Diana Pang Tan, Angie Cheong Wei Yee, Lai Yiu Cheung, Emi Tojo (Dung Sing Gong Mei) Mizuho Ishikawa (Shek Chuen Mei Jung Shui) --- [ NOW SHOWING ] Info from Mov3.com (http://www.mov3.com), Ryan's Hong Kong Movie DataBase (http://www.hkmdb.com), Korean Movie Database (http://www.krmdb.com), Cinema Thai (http://www.cinemathai.com), Hong Kong Entertainment News In Review (http://www.hkentreview.com), Internet Movie DataBase (http://www.imdb.com) PLAYBOY COPS Can : Fa Fa Ying Gaing Lit : Flowery Cop d. Jingle Ma Chor Sing Shawn Yue Man Lok, Linda Chung Ka Yun, Chen Kun, Wong Yau Nam, Carl Ng Ka Lung Rating : IIB Length : 99 mins. Opening February 28 2008 [ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ] An extremely brutal armed robbery case has brought two very unusual young detectives together in Hong Kong. Both men have been known not to follow the usual rules of conduct in solving crimes. Lincoln, the younger brother of the deceased, an ex-policeman in China, has sworn to find the man who has murdered his brother. While he investigates the murder on his own in Hong Kong, he meets Michael, a CID officer on suspension. Michael has often been warned against insubordination, and for pulling stunts such as using his own private helicopter to capture criminals on the run... LE GRAND CHEF d. Jeon Yoon-Soo Kim Gang-Woo, Lim Won-Hee Length : 114 mins. Opening February 28 2008 [ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ] A cook-off is held to determine the best from all the chefs in the top Korean restaurant, Woonam-jung. The winner is to inherit the restaurant. The dish that the chefs must make is the dangerous yellow swellfish sushi, a taste that is to die for. The two top chefs of the restaurant, Sung-chan and Bong-joo go head to head for the seat of the owner of Woonam-jung. But the judges who taste Sung-chan's sushi get food poisoning from his dish. Bong-joo stands behind him and flashes a complacent smile....What really went on between the two? KAIDAN d. Hideo Nakata Kikunosuke Onoe, Hitomi Kuroki, Mao Inoue, Asaka Seto Opening February 28 2008 [ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ] 250 years ago Soetsu, a humble moneylender, is murdered by Shinzaemon, a cruel samurai, and his dead body is disposed of in the Kasanegafuchi, the pool of a river where it snakes around, and where legend has it, those who sink into the water will never float to the surface again. 20 years later, in a chance encounter, Shinkichi, the handsome son of Shinzaemon, meets Toyoshiga, the daughter of Soetsu, and they fall in love. When Toyoshiga dies from a mysterious disease, Shinkichi finds that not only is he unable to avoid the mysterious fatality of the past and Toyoshiga's tenacious love for him, but he is also forced to confront the ghostly truths held by the Kasanegafuchi. [ COMING SOON ] THE SPARROW Can : Man Jeuk Lit : Cultured Bird d. Johnnie To Kei Fung Simon Yam Tat Wa, Kelly Lin (Lam Hei Lui), Lam Ka Tung, Lo Hoi Pang, Lam Suet, Kate Tsui Tsz Shan Opening February 11 2008 at the Berlin Film Festival Site : http://www.berlinale.de/en/programm/berlinale_programm/datenblatt.php?film_id=20084390 [ BERLIN FILM FESTIVAL ] "Sparrow" is a common word used in Hong Kong street slang for pickpocket. The term refers to the special dexterity needed to pluck people's wallets from their pockets...and possibly also to the necessity of having to flutter away quickly should one de discovered. Kei is one such "sparrow" -- a nd a very professional one at that. He and his three partners earn a good living from digging deep into the pockets of oblivious passers-by moving along the crowded urban canyons of Hong Kong. As far as Kei's concerned, it's all he needs to live a carefree life. Whenever hei s not going about his business he loves to ride about the city on his bicycle photographing street scenes with his Rolleiflex camera. One day the gorgeous Chun Lei comes into his sights. Kei is fascinated but behind Chun Lei's good looks lurks a mysterious past. Kei falls in love with her -- and he is not the only one. After having managed to turn the heads of his three colleagues, she reveals her true intentions. The sparrows are to steal a key that is of great importance to her. At first the task seems simple, but then another interested party appears on the scene in shape of the shy tycoon Mr. Yen...... [ GOLDEN SCREEN CINEMAS ONLINE ] They are known as the "sparrows", Hong Kong's street slang for "pickpockets". They work in groups, lifting wallets from unsuspecting tourists until one day an irresistible woman of unknown origin appears before them and requests the gang to steal a key for her. The set up begins to unravel itself when the mission completes. The pickpockets realize this exotic beauty has been slowly leading them onto a path of no return. BREATH d. Kim Ki-Duk Chang Chen, Zia, Ha Jung-Woo [ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ] On a cold winter day, after learning her husband has found a new woman, Yeon absent mindedly heads for the prison where Chen is confined. Although she does not know him personally, repeated news of his suicide attempts on TV has subconsciously grown in her mind and now is leading her to seek him. Jin has no visitors and normally would not agree to meet with a complete stranger, but hearing that it is a woman he accepts her meeting request out of curiosity. Their first meeting is as awkward as it can get. Yeon treats Jin like an old friend whereas Jin does not open up so easily. SHAMO Can : Kwun Gai Lit : Military Chicken d. Soi Cheang Po Shui Shawn Yue Man Lok, Francis Ng Chun Yu, Annie Liu (Lau Sum Yau), Dylan Kuo (Kwok Bun Chiu), Rating : IIB Length : 101 mins. Opening March 6 2008 [ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ] After killing his parents, teenaged Ryo became a target for bullying from the moment he arrived in the boys' home he was sent to. As he was being beaten to the verge of death, training officer and fellow prisoner Kenji Kurokawa stepped in and taught Ryo a harsh lesson in survival: if you want to leave prison alive, you will have to destroy all your enemies..... FATAL MOVE Can : Duet Shui d. Dennis Law Sau Yiu Sammo Hung Kam Bo, Danny Lee Sau Yin, Simon Yam Tat Wa, Maggie Siu Mei Kei, Pinky Cheung Man Chi, Jason Wu Jing, Ken Low Wai Kwong, Heung Jor, Tian Niu, Yen Wing San Opening March 6 2008 in Malaysia [ CINEMA ONLINE MALAYSIA ] In the violent world of Hong Kong's triad, one false move can be fatal. A series of unexpected misfortunes challenge gang leader and his mob, eventually leading to a bloody gangster war. The gang are moving closer to destruction as their every move backfires on them - a drug deal turns bad, a kidnap victim is murdered, and a secret mission turns into a savage shoot-out with the police. Who is the mastermind behind these evil plots? Will the gang leader be able to defy fate and survive? RULE NUMBER ONE Can : Dai Yut Gai Lit : First Sin d. Tong Wing Kin Dior Cheng Yi Kin, Shawn Yue Man Lok, Fiona Sit Hoi Kei, Stephanie Che Yuen Yuen Opening March 13 2008 in Malaysia [ CINEMA ONLINE MALAYSIA ] Rookie Sergeant Lee is assigned to the dubious-sounding Miscellaneous Affairs Department (MAD), where he is paired with Inspector Wong who explains that MAD's role is to answer to supernatural calls and its Rule #1 is that there are no ghosts; for every seemingly-inexplicable phenomenon, there is a scientific and rational explanation. MAD then begins investigating a string of bizarre teenage suicides. As Lee and Wong follow the clues, they realize that something sinister is heading their way. L FOR LOVE L FOR LIES Can : Ngor Dik Jui Oi Lit : My Most Beloved d. Yip Lim Sum Alex Fong Lik Sun, Stephy Tang Lai Yun, Miki Yeung Oi Kun, Hu Qingnan (Wu Ching Nam), Alice Tsang Hoi Won, Leila Tong Ning Opening March 13 2008 [ YAHOO! HONG KONG MOVIES ] Bo originally is an incredibly fortunate girl. She and Chun, the boyfriend who she grew up with, opens a small dessert shop after graduation. Bo has her heart set on marrying Chun after the business settles down. Bo one day runs into a long lost former classmate Kei, who has her eyes on the ambition of the good man Chun, ignores her relationship with Bo and takes him away. Poor Bo not only loses the love that she cherishes like a treasure but also the dessert shop that she has worked hard to established. She is left with the tragedy of losing both the guy and the shop. Mosquito is Bo's good friend who has a boyfriend of many years Fung. The pretty Mosquito often develops one after another short romance behind the introverted Fung's back. Mosquito loves Fung but she is certain that the faithful Fung would not leave her as she is reluctant to be someone who is with one person for a lifetime. THE EMPRESS AND THE WARRIORS Can : Gong San Mei Yun Lit : Kingdom Beauty d. Ching Siu Tung Kelly Chen Wai Lam, Donnie Yen Chi Tan, Leon Lai Ming, Guo Xiaodong, (Kau Jun Hoi) Opening March 20 2008 [ YAHOO! MOVIES HONG KONG ] Amid a war, Princess Feier whose father died in battle took over the duty of protecting her nation with General Xuefu. Later traitor Hu Ba assassinated and injured the princess, who luckily was saved by Duen Lanchuan. They fell for each other; but with trouble inside and outside how would Feier choose? WINDS OF SEPTEMBER - THE TAIWAN CHAPTER Can : Gau Gong Fung d. Lin Shu Yu Rhydian Vaughan, Chang Chieh, Wang Bo Chieh Length : 113 mins. Opening March 21 2008 at the Hong Kong International Film Festival Site : http://www.hkiff.org.hk/eng/programme/show_detail.php?fi_id=684 [ HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ] The winds of September are the wind of Hsinchu, a strong windthat visits the county and city between September and November. The film takes us back to 1996, during the time of the tragic Taiwan baseball scandal, an event that devastated many teenage boys. The story follows Yen and Tang and their gang through the last year of their high school life. From chasing girls to midnight skinny dipping to rootingfor their favorite baseball team, they do everything together. When an accident throws Yen into a coma, their world starts falling apart. A cruel reality has announced itself, can the boys grow up quickly enough to face it? WINDS OF SEPTEMBER - THE MAINLAND CHAPTER Can : Gau Gong Fung d. Han Yan Tai Junjie, Wu Xiaoliang, Liu Shuhan, Chi Jia Rating : 105 mins. Opening March 21 2008 at the Hong Kong International Film Festival Site : http://www.hkiff.org.hk/eng/programme/show_detail.php?fi_id=682 [ THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ] Some time before the return of Hong Kong's sovereignty to China, a Mainland high school stages a variety show to celebrate the occasion. One of the most brilliant openings among the many recent Chinese high school titles, it introduces the unfolding drama of rival groups of "good" and "bad" students and their "internal contradictions", and serves as a continual mental backdrop for the audience: of youth caught in a society whose founding ideology has become obsolete and absurd. WINDS OF SEPTEMBER - THE HONG KONG CHAPTER Can : Gau Gong Fung d. Heiward Mak Lam Yiu Sing, Sham Ka Kei, Anjo Leung Hiu Fung, Venus Wong Man Yik Length : 100 mins. Site : http://www.hkiff.org.hk/eng/programme/show_detail.php?fi_id=683 CITY WITHOUT BASKETBALL Can : Mo Yeh ji Sing Lit : City Without Wildness d. Lawrence Ah Mon (Lau Kwok Cheung), Scud (Wan Yu) Leung Yu Chung, Ron Heung Chi Chun, Gia Lin Yuan, Monie Tung Man Lei Length : 100 mins. Opening March 22 2008 at the Hong Kong International Film Festival Site : http://www.hkiff.org.hk/eng/programme/show_detail.php?fi_id=441 [ HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTVIAL ] Resigned to playing at a remote facility without even a spectator's stand, a local baseball team faces challenges on and off the field before the international championships. BESIEGED CITY Can : Wai Sing Lit : Surrounded City d. Lawrence Ah Mon (Lau Kwok Cheung) Tang Tak Po, Wong Hau Yan, Wong Yat Ho, Tze Lock Chiang Cho Man Rating : III Length : 96 mins. Opening March 22 2008 at the Hong Kong International Film Festival Site : http://www.hkiff.org.hk/eng/programme/show_detail.php?fi_id=425 [ HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ] A young man in coma is under arrest for murder; as his older brother delves into the past year of his brother's life, he discovers that numbness and cowardice can have murderous consequences. SNIPER Can : Sun Cheung Sau Lit : Godly Gunslingers d. Dante Lam Chiu Yin Richie Jen (Yam Yin Chai), Edison Chen Koon Hei, Huang Xiaoming Opening March 27 2008 in Malaysia [ CINEMA ONLINE MALAYSIA ] Ming is renowned as the top shooter in the police force. However things get complicated after the release of his former teammate and superb marksman Ching from prison. With only vengeance on his mind, Ching wants to take on Ming and the police, believing that they are the ones who put him in jail. When a mysterious sniper sabotages a high-security prisoner transfer and a convict escapes, Ming and his team are dispatched to profile the suspect. THE WAY WE ARE Can : Tin Shui Wai Dik Yut Yu Yeh Lit : Tin Shui Wai's Day and Night d. Ann Hui On Wa Paw Hee Ching, Chan Lai Wun, Leung Chun Lung, Idy Chan Length : 90 mins. Opening March 27 2008 at the Hong Kong International Film Festival Site : http://www.hkiff.org.hk/eng/programme/show_detail.php?fi_id=638 [ HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ] A widowed mother and her teenage son live in a Tin Shui Wai estate. She works in a supermarket and helps a colleague breaks into her new job. The boy, average in each and every way, grows into adolescence hesitantly. In passing, we find out that the mother has made big sacrifices to her family. The way we are, the way we live; an ode to the salt of the earth. LOVE IS ELSEWHERE Can : Oi Ching Man Shui Lit : Love Hail d. Vincent Chui Won Shun Yumiko Cheng Hei Yi, Sherman Chung Shu Man, Jason Chan Pak Yu, Ken Hung Cheuk Lap, Yan Ng Yat Yin, Chow Pak Ho, Length : 97 mins. Opening March 31 2008 at the Hong Kong International Film Festival Site : http://www.hkiff.org.hk/eng/programme/show_detail.php?fi_id=671 [ HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ] The story takes place in the posh Soho, the city's favorite haunt for the fashionable minded. The film begins with a young couple running a cafe and throwing in free conunseling (their real dream is to save up for schooling in Beijing), and draws into this circle a playboy houseman, his object of desire, a gallery owner, her young delivery boy admirer who wants to be a singer, and an assortment of beautiful creatures. As days turn into nights and nights into days, friends and lovers come and go; they dream of a love that ends all love. THREE KINGDOMS : RESURRECTION OF THE DRAGON Can : Sam Gok Gein Lung Seh Gap Lit : Three Kingdoms See Dragon Remove Armor d. Lee Yan Kong Andy Lau Tak Wa, Maggie Q, Sammo Hung Kam Bo, Vanness Wu (Ng Kin Ho), Ti Lung Opening April 3 2008 [ CINEMA ONLINE MALAYSIA ] His country torn asunder by civil war, Zhao, a commoner, heeds the call of duty. From the humblest of roots, he rises through the ranks on wings of courage to command an army charged with liberating the land from an evil warlord. Inspired by action, honour and a dream of unifying his divided nation, Zhao's heroism becomes a legend. But as the years pass and the throne changes hands, the war still rages on. When a newly enthroned king decides peace can only be achieved by defeating the warlords once and for all, Zhao embarks on his final and greatest campaign - a road to adventure that will crown his name in glory for all time. RUN PAPA RUN Can : Yut Gor Ho Ba Ba Lit : One Good Papa AKA : Hak Ba Ba Lit : Black Papa d. Sylvia Chang (Cheung Ngai Ga) Louis Koo Tin Lok, Rene Liu (Lau Yeuk Ying) Opening April 10 2008 Official Site : www.emp.hk [ OFFICIAL SITE ] Raised by a single mother in a crime-ridden neighborhood, Lee has risen from street punk to successful syndicate crime boss. Fast money and women have always come easily to Lee, but Lee unexpectedly falls in love with a lawyer named Mabel. When Mabel becomes pregnant, Lee panics. Determined to make the relationship the work, Mabel moves into his apartment uninvited. Mabel's persistence pays off when their child Heiyi is born - Lee's paternal instincts are awakened and he is transformed into a doting father. Desperate to protect his new family, Lee conceals the true nature of his business. His gang members undergo an image makeover and to all outward appearances Lee is now legitimate businessman. Lee is selected to be the next kingpin of the underworld, and he is torn between family and brotherhood. His relationship with the three women in his life: his mom, his wife and his daughter, changes his life perspective, and he is determined to make things right once and for all. THE FORBIDDEN KINGDOM AKA : THE J AND J PROJECT Can : Gong Fu ji Wong Lit : King of Gong Fu d. Rob Minkoff Jackie Chan, Jet Li (Lee Nin Kit), Crystal Liu Yifei, Li Bingbing Opening April 2008 RED CLIFF PART I AKA : BATTLE OF RED CLIFF Can : Chet Bik Lit : Red Cliff d. John Woo (Ng Yu Sum) Tony Leung Chiu Wai, Takeshi Kaneshiro (Gum Sing Mo), Janny Lin Chiling, Vicki Zhao Wei, Chang Chen, Zhang Fengyi, Hu Jun, You Yong Opening July 3 2008 [ CINEMA ONLINE ] In the early third century, the warlord Cao Cao and his soldiers invaded the land of Wu. The ruler of Wu, Sun Quan called on the rival warlord Liu Bei for help, but their two armies were still badly outnumbered. However, strategists Zhou Yu and Zhuge Liang see that Cao Cao's army was not used to battling at sea. With 200,000 men, Zhou Yu and Zhuge Liang defeated Cao Cao's army at the Yangtze River. RED CLIFF PART II AKA : BATTLE OF RED CLIFF Can : Chet Bik Lit : Red Cliff d. John Woo (Ng Yu Sum) Tony Leung Chiu Wai, Takeshi Kaneshiro (Gum Sing Mo), Janny Lin Chiling, Vicki Zhao Wei, Chang Chen, Zhang Fengyi, Hu Jun, You Yong Opening December 18 2008 --- [ Entertainment URL ] EMPEROR MOTION PICTURES http://www.emp.hk GOLDEN SCENE http://www.goldenscene.com SING PAO http://www.singpao.com THE HONG KONG FILM ARCHIVE http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/hkfa/ CHANG CHUN CHINA FILM FESTIVAL http://www.cc-film.com GOLDEN HARVEST http://www.goldenharvest.com STAR EAST http://www.stareastnet.com CITY ENTERTAINMENT http://www.cityentertainment.com.hk Commercial Radio http://www.crhk.com.hk Television Broadcast Limited http://www.tvb.com.hk --- [ NORTH AMERICA AREA CONCERTS ] Courtesy of our neighbors at : High Level Entertainment's Concert & Event News Center http://www.levelhigh.com http://www.geocities.com/NapaValley/1721/hlecaen.htm * RAYMOND MIU PRODUCTIONS AND TRUMP TAJ MAHAL CASINO RESORT PRESENT HACKEN LEE HARK KUN HACKEN'S CONCERT HALL 2008 DATE AND TIME : Saturday night / Sunday morning, March 23 2008 @ 1AM Sunday, March 23 2008 @ 2PM VENUE LOCATION : Mark G. Etess Arena Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort TICKET PRICCES : $118, 88, 68, 48 EXCLUSIVE BOX OFFICE LOCATION : Raymond Miu Productions 195 Canal Street, Suite 201 New York NY 10013 212.966.0800 www.rmpny.com * INTERNATIONAL ENTERTAINMENT MARKETING AND MOHEGAN SUN PRESENT SAMMI CHENG SAU MAN SHOW MI 2008 CONCERT DATE AND TIME : Saturday night / Sunday morning, March 23 2008 @ 2AM Sunday, March 23 2008 @ 1PM VENUE LOCATION : Mohegan Sun Arena Mohegan Sun 1 Mohegan Sun Boulevard Uncasville CT 06382 (860) 862-4002 TICKET PRICES : VIP$138, 108, 78, 58 TICKET OUTLET LOCATIONS : ONLINE : www.iemshowplace.com CHINATOWN 89 Bowery 212.925.1098 FLUSHING International Entertainment Marketing 135-05 40 Road 2/Fl 718.888.3113 BROOKLYN International Entertainment Marketing 5609 8th Avenue 718.437.777 EDISON 1681 Rt. 27 Suite 3 732.819.8883 BOSTON 12A Tyler Street 617.695.1989 ------------------------------------------------------------------- Box office info : What Box Office Info? The usual suspects : MOV3.COM, Internet Movie Database, Yahoo! Hong Kong Erors : ye olde chaffing editor For Monday February 25 2008 10 THE BUCKET LIST d. Rob Reiner Jack Nicholson, Morgan Freeman 9 L : CHANGE THE WORLD d. Hideo Nakata (Jung Tin Sau Fu) Kenichi Matsuyama (Chung San Yin Yat), Youki Kudoh (Gung Tung Jik Gwai) 8 CJ 7 Can : Cheung Gong 7 Ho d. Stephen Chow Sing Chi Stephen Chow Sing Chi, Xu Jiao, Kitty Zhang Yuqi, Lam Tsz Chung 7 VANTAGE POINT d. Peter Travis Dennis Quaid, Matthew Fox, Forest Whitaker, William Hurt, Sigourney Weaver 6 NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN d. Joel and Ethan Coen Tommy Lee Jones, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin 5 JUNO d. Jason Reitman Ellen Page, MichaelCera, Jennifer Garner, Jason Bateman, Allison Janney, J.K. Simmons 4 ENCHANTED d. Kevin Lima Julie Andrews, Amy Adams, James Marsden, Idina Menzel, Susan Sarandon, Patrick Dempsey 3 P.S. I LOVE YOU d. Richard LaGravenese Hilary Swank, Gerard Butler, Lisa Kudrow 2 JUMPER d. Doug Liman Hayden Christensen, Samuel L. Jackson, Rachel Bilson, Jamie Bell 1 THE MIST d. Frank Darabont Thomas Jane, Marcia Gay Harden, Laurie Holden ------ Summaries for some of the films above. Some contain SPOILERS L: CHANGE THE WORLD Rating : IIB Lenght : 129 mins. Opening February 9 2008 [ CITYLINE ] After solving the Kira case, another serious case confronts L and he has only 23 days left to solve it. A person who obtained the most horrible weapon, "Death God" says the same thing as Kira... "I am going to change the world". A boy and a girl hold the keys to solving the case and L faces a crisis of global magnitude to protect the kids. He is without his most trusted partner, Watari, and cannot rely on just his superb intellect to solve the case. What will happen to L? What will change? The 23 days are packed with turns of events even L himself cannot predict. The final countdown to the shocking events are about to begin! KUNG FU DUNK Rating : IIB Length : 99 mins. Opening February 7 2007 Official Site : http://www.emp.hk/kungfudunk [ CINEMA ONLINE MALAYSIA ] Shi-Jie, grew up in a martial arts school and is well-trained in kung-fu. With his kung-fu skills and good reflexes, Shi-Jie excels in basketball by mastering the slam dunk technique. Wang-Li, who is trying to locate Shi-Jie's real family, invites him to join the university's basketball team in hope of making some money. Shi-Jie faces new challenges while trying to blend in with the basketball team members Ting-Wei and Xiao-Lan. With the upcoming basketball championship and the appearance of Li-Li, will the team members set aside their differences and personal feelings for the love of the game? CJ7 AKA : SEVEN AKA : YANGTZE RIVER 7 Rating : IIA Length : 88 mins. Opening January 31 2008 [ YAHOO! MOVIES HONG KONG ] A down on his luck father takes his son to a broken down home as the entire family relies on his father's physical labor for a living. He also constantly picks up trash for home use. Papa has high hopes for his son to get into a star school and risks his life to pay the high tuition; the son due to his poor family background is often the subject of ridicule for teachers and students alike. Only the pretty and kind teacher Ms. Yuen never gives up on him and takes great care of him. Watching his classmates with the new technology toy dog CJ7, the envious son constantly asks Papa to get one for him. The empty pocked Papa can only bring up a plastic ball from the dump as a gift. Unexpectedly, this ball turns into a lovably alien with extraordinary abilities! The son names this new friend CJ7 and even brings it to school as his companion behind his father's back in hopes of teaching bullying classmates a lesson and resolve all difficult problems at school. ------ GLOBAL CHINESE SONG CHART For Saturday, February 23 2008 15 MAN WOMAN Can : Nam Yun Nui Yun Valen Hsu (Hui Yu Wan) 14 WHEN WE ARE 2GETHER Can : Dong Ngor Moon Jat Yut Fai Alan Luo (Law Chi Cheung) 13 FAREWELL CONCERT HALL Can : Joi Gein Yin Jau Tang Hacken Lee Hak Kun 12 I JUST LIKE YOU Can : Ngor Jau Si Hei Foon Nei Big Mouth 11 BIG HERO CHOW Can : Jau Dai Hup Jay Chou (Chow Kit Lun) 10 ZERO HOUR ZERO MINUTE Can : Ling Si Ling Fun Joey Yung Cho Yi 9 DON'T WANT TO COMPREHEND Can : But Seung Dung Dut Angela Chang (Cheung Siu Hom) 8 GIVE WARMTH IN SNOW Can : Shuet Jung Sung Luen Various Stars 7 INNOCENT Can : Mo Gu Gary Cao (Cho Gat) 6 LIGHT YEAR Can : Guong Nin Sam Lee (Lee Sing Kit) 5 LOVE SONG Fong Datong 4 YOU ARE THE PERSON I LOVE THE MOST Can : Nei Si Ngor Jui Oi Dik Yun Ivana Wong Yuen Chi 3 ACROBATICS Can : Jap Gei Janice Vidal (Wai Lan) 2 PAIN THAT BREATHES Can : Wui Fu Cup Dik Tung Jasmine Leong Jing Yu 1 EIFFEL TOWER Can : Ba Lai Teet Tap Anson Hu (Wu Yin Bun) ------ [ Yakety Yak ] The views and opinions expressed here are purely those of the writer and in no way reflect those of Hong Kong Film Top 10 Box Office, its contributors and affiliated web sites. GO AWAY Finally Edison Chen Koon Hei has returned to Hong Kong, apologized for the photos and retired from show business. Big F'N Deal. When are people going to let it go? It is especially disrespectful when it took the death of a Hong Kong entertainment legend like Lydia Shum Din Ha to quiet this rubbish down, and suddenly he decided to stick his head out of hiding and opened his yap. Perhaps Ed-is-on such a high that he has completely lost his head. Why does everyone complain about the decline of the moral fiber of society when just keep talking about it only encourages those attention starved imbeciles to keep on with these stupid postings? Your Chaffing Editor for one could not care less. Go Away. As you may have noticed, this week's articles may seem short and abrupt. Since the press seemed to care more about what everyone thought first of the suspected bed photos of celebrities then of Edison's BFD Your Chaffing Editor thought that he would not encourage any of those yutz further and activate "could not care less" edit mode. Top Ten Central has minimize coverage on all the gossips surrounding the entire Edison ordeal to begin with and now we are in full "ignore" mode. The lock down has been so tight that no one at Top Ten Central seemed to remember who invented the light bulb or who to send our electric bill to. All right, that should be enough attention to keep the whiny crybaby down for awhile. Speaking of which, Your Chaffing Editor just inadvertedly noticed the opening to Jordin Sparks' NO AIR: If I should die before I wake Its cause you took my breath away WTF, Your Chaffing Editor realizes that people get stuipd in love, but is she blaming the guy if she buys it? Hey, idiot in love, try TAKING A BREATH! Finally, a friend informed Your Chaffing Editor that out of the three movies that he has seen during the Lunar New Year in Hong Kong JUMPER was the best. When Your Chaffing Editor pointed out that the utter lack of a story killed the film, the friend proceeded to come up with the most common excuse for action films. "It's an action film." WTF, does that excuse even fly? Your Chaffing Editor is only angry at JUMPER because Doug Liman is capable of much better, especially when he can refer to A BOOK for a story if he is stumped (hopefully). Then again, Your Chaffing Editor has been coasting on the same excuse for years. "HE'S CRAZY." Jer Jer Stinks, Your Chaffing Editor Top Ten Central --- [ WHAT IS YOUR CHAFFING EDITOR LISTENING TO ] ---------------------- HK Top Ten Central hktopten@hotmail.com | http://www.geocities.com/Tokyo/Towers/2038