The Asian DVD Guide

Sunday, 1/30/2005

Universe January 29 Releases
Ebola Syndrome (1996) Director: Herman Yau Cast: Anthony Wong, Law Mong, Chan Miu Ying, Ngor Chi Kwan, Wong Tsui Ling Synopsis A gangster Chick smuggled into South Africa to avoid being caught. One day, he rapes and murders a black girl who is infected with a terrible Ebola virus. He has no idea that he becomes the carrier of the disease. Later he kills his boss couple and minces their bodies into the hamburgers. To escape from arrest, he flies back to Hong Kong and continues to spread the Ebola virus... Letterboxed Cantonese (Mono), Mandarin (Mono) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-5
Jam Films 2 (2003) Director: Various Cast: Various Synopsis Hoops Men Soul A young girl taken hostage in settlement of her father's debts, and the ensuing battle between her boyfriend and his gang that come to her rescue. Clean Room In a desperate attempt to escape from reality, she locks herself up in a germ-free room. Who is the woman who appears before her? Armchair Theory How will he win her love? Will the traditional Japanese approach be effective? An instructive chronicle on how to be successful in the pursuit of true love. Fastener A boy who doesn't want to grow up drifts between fabrication and truth in pursuit of reality. Letterboxed Japanese (Stereo) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles Region 3 DVD-5
Life Is Journey (2003) Director: Seiichi Tanabe Cast: Hitomi, Seiichi Tanabe, Nene Otsuka, Kentaro Kobayashi, Mikako Ichikawa, Koen Kondo, Mikako Ichikawa, Tsugumi, Mikako Ichikawa, Yoji Tanaka Synopsis "Life Is Journey" is a compilation of four short stories. The characters all yearn to connect with others, while dwelling in their solitude. Accidental encounters and reluctant partings overlap joy and pain on a daily basis – yet no two days are alike. "Life" portrays half of a woman's life in one-scene, one-cut, nine-minute sequence. "N" is a comical take on a man abandoned by his lover. "Ya" explores the bond of female friendship as one woman consoles a brokenhearted girlfriend. "Nowhere", a man and a woman roam the streets of a foreign land in search of lost time. Letterboxed Japanese (Mono) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles Region 3 DVD-5

IVL January 25 Shaw Brothers Releases

Battle Wizard, The (1977) Director: Pao Hsueh-li Cast: Danny Lee (aka Li Hsiu-hsien), Tanny Tien Ni, Lin Chen-chi Genre: Martial Arts Synopsis Pao Hsueh-li, the trusted co-director for several of Chang Cheh's most memorable productions (including The Water Margin), here creates one of his own. A brother who loves books and a sister who loves swords must face a yellow-robed warrior, the Red Python, a sinuous snake-charmer, and a silk-masked beauty (who must kill or wed the first man to see her face) before they can bring peace to their battle-addled family in this special, cliche-smashing production. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (DD 5.1) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, behind the scenes pictures, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
Death Valley (1968) Director: Lo Wei Cast: Angela Yu Chien, Yueh Hua, Chen Hung-lieh, Lo Wei Genre: Martial Arts Synopsis Lo Wei was twenty years into his notable career when he wrote, directed, and co-starred in this tale of a murdered lord, a hired killer who unknowingly becomes friends with his intended victim, a vicious bandit chief, a kind blind woman, and a death duel which explodes into an ambush and then a slaughter. Star Yueh Hua would go on to an exceptional acting career, while Lo himself would give both Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan their "big breaks." Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (DD 5.1) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
Dream Of The Red Chamber, The (1977) Director: Li Han-hsiang Cast: Brigitte Lin Ching-hsia, Sylvia Chang, Deborah, Michelle Mei Suet Genre: Huangmei Opera Synopsis Li han-hisang's adaptation of the classic Qing Dynasty novel will take viewers to the heightened pleasures of love and the despairing depths of betrayal. Timeless beauty Brigitte Lin Ching-hsia appears as Chia Pao-yu in her first attempt at a gender-bending role, an art she will wield complete mastery over in later films. Pao-yu is in love with his cousin, Lin Tai-yu (Sylvia Chang), but his family has other marital plans for him that will leave both broken-hearted. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (Mono) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: The Savant - Li Han-hsiang The Huangmeixi Romances: Scroll Five Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, behind the scenes pictures, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
Forbidden Tales Of Two Cities (1974) Director: Li Han-hsiang Cast: Hu Chin, Tanny Tien Ni, Chen Ping, Shek Sau, Ku Feng Genre: Erotic Synopsis Li Han-hsiang, one of the most experienced and respected filmmakers in Hong Kong, wrote and directed this charming and fascinating comedy of amorous complications and modern morals in the very middle of his forty year career. The two cities are Macau, where a love quartet is the source for sexy merriment, and Hong Kong, where a gambler tells a charming woman why there are four shackles hanging from his apartment ceiling! Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (Mono) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: The Savant - Li Han-hsiang Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, behind the scenes pictures, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
How To Pick Girls Up! (1987) Director: Wong Jing Cast: Eric Tsang, Maggie Cheung, Elizabeth Lee, Chimgmy Yau, Sandra Ng, Wong Jing, Stanley Fung Genre: Comedy Synopsis Wong Jing was just a few years into his amazingly successful career when he created this romantic farce, starring himself as a hapless lover who calls the "Love Pain Killer" for help. The renowned actor Eric Tsang is wonderful as the purported pro, but it's the queenly quintet of lovely Maggie Cheung Man-yuk, sweet Elizabeth Lee, sexy Chingmy Yau Shuk-ching, sensual Ellen Chan, and hilarious Sandra Ng who truly make this a comedy to remember. Letterboxed (1.85:1) Languages: Mandarin (Mono), Cantonese (Mono) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, behind the scenes pictures, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
Lady Jade Locket (1966) Director: Yen Chuan Cast: Li Li-hua, Li Ching, Ching Miao Genre: Drama Synopsis Love knows no limits in the grand period romance, Lady Jade Locket. A young fighter inadvertently falls for the spirit of a beautiful woman, who died years earlier avenging her own father's murder. The beautiful ghost is in fact the sister of his fiancee. Experienced as an actor in many such romances, director Yen Chuan keeps the tone perfect. Plus, with period specialist Li Li-hua in the lead and the attractive and acclaimed Li Ching playing the ghost girl, he really can do no wrong. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (Mono) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
Silent Swordsman, The (1967) Director: Kao Li Cast: Chang I, Yu Hui, Shu Pei-pei, Chiao Chiao Genre: Martial Arts Synopsis Versatile director Kao Li works with scripter Yuan Chun to realize this action epic of merciless men lusting to be emperor and the patriotic secret society dedicated to stopping them. The great Chang I stars as the consummate title martial arts master who can defeat a squad of soldiers with just a fan. The lovely woman warriors Yu Hui, Shu Pei-pei, and Chiao Chiao are also on hand as undercover swordswomen and concubines who fight to the death to save their country...and themselves. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (DD 5.1) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
Spring Blossoms (1967) Director: Yueh Feng Cast: Shu Pei-pei, Lily Li, Essie Lin Chia, Yang Fang Genre: Drama Synopsis Spring Blossoms is a parable about the Chinese youth culture and what's important to the younger generation when it comes to romance. It starred a new wave of seventies, Shaw's beauties, Lily Li, Shu Pei-pei and Essie Lin-chia as single women looking for love. It's a triple-decker romantic bus ride on a road to nowhere speeding toward a low bridge. Only Lily Li became successful via her martial-arts abilities, so awesomely featured in Jackie Chan's The Young Master. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (Mono) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
Sweet Is Revenge (1967) Director: Wu Chia-hsiang Cast: Li Ching, Yueh Hua, Angela Yu Chien, Ho Fan Genre: Action Synopsis Famed actor Wu Chia-hsiang directed dramas, fantasies, romances, and this jaunty, exciting, swashbuckling tale of a Chinese Robin Hood who fought evil warlords decades ago. Yueh Hua stars -- in one of his earliest films -- as a circus acrobat who becomes "The Masked Robber" to defeat corrupt government officials. Revenge is, indeed, sweet for the protagonists in this lively adventure of fast action, close calls, and clever conceits. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (Mono) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
VCD Only
Cohabitation (1975) Director: Sun Chung Cast: Tsung Hua, Lin Chen-chi, Wang Lai Genre: Drama Synopsis Abortion, birth control, and unwed cohabitation are social issues rarely associated with 1970's Hong Kong cinema, but Cohabitation not only faces them head on but does so with insight, compassion...and sex! The movie made a star of nineteen-year-old Lin Chen-chi, who exudes the youthful spirit then infusing Hong Kong as it made the transformation from traditional Chinese strictures to an era where sex was no longer a three-letter word. Variety gave Cohabitation the thumbs up, describing it as "Contemporary and intelligent". Languages: Mandarin Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English
2005 Shaw Brothers Schedule

Friday, 1/28/2005 (Second Update)

Mei Ah February 1 Releases
Beyond Our Ken (2004) Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Cantonese, Mandarin Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles Extras: Director's commentary Secret Of "Beyond Our Ken" Footage from the film's premiere at the 2004 Tokyo International Film Festival Photo gallery Deleted scenes Outtakes DVD-9
Lovers In Paris (2004) [TV Series] Korean Chinese (Traditional) and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles

Mei Ah January 20 Releases
Three Summers (1992) Director: Lawrence Ah Mon Cast: Tony Leung Chiu Wai, Veronica Yip, Jacklyn Wu, Cherie Chan Synopsis Tony Leung please a young man with a painful history, returning from Hong Kong to his fishing village on an outlying island. His young sister Cherie Chan has befriended with a group of youngsters from the city which would come to the island every summer. She starts to experience all the joys and sorrows from others' stories, which people of her age are expected to experience. Spirited and refreshing, "Three Summers" is an ode to the fountain of youth. Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Cantonese, Mandarin Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles
Conmen In Vegas, The (1999) (Remastered) Director: Wong Jing Cast: Andy Lau, Nick Cheung, Nat Chan, Kelly Lin Synopsis King of Gamblers, King (Andy Lau), and his buddy Skinny Dragon (Nick Cheung), together with Dragon's cousin, Smarty (Nat Chan), swindle a huge amount of money out of the wicked Big Eye Man's underground casino. When the trio is about to enjoy the easy money, Man's gangs show up unexpectedly and catch Dragon. King and Smarty are taken away to meet the senior Chinese officials, who urge them to leave for Las Vegas and capture a con man named Peter Chu (Man Chi Leung)... Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Cantonese, Mandarin (DTS + Dolby Digital) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-9
Dr. Wai In The Scripture With No Words (1996) (Remastered) Director: Ching Siu Tung Cast: Jet Li, Rosamund Kwan, Takeshi Kaneshiro, Charlie Yeung Synopsis "The Scripture With No Words" had been lost for a long time. Everybody was eager to find it, even the ambitious Japanese. Dr. Wai was an antiquarian. Having seen the mysterious "Wooden Horse", lost control and killing people, he quit his job. However, being supported by his friend, Dr. Wai recovered and resumed to his work. He went to Shanghai trying to locate "The Scripture With No Words" and he discovered that it was in the possession of the leader of "Gang of Salt". And the game begin... Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Cantonese, Mandarin (DTS + Dolby Digital) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-9

Mei Ah December 22 DVD Covers/Synopsis
All For The Winner (1990) (Remastered) Director: Corey Yuen, Jeff Lau Cast: Stephen Chow, Sharla Cheung, Sandra Ng, Ng Man Tat, Paul Chun Synopsis Sing, who has supernatural power, comes from China and lives with his Uncle Tat. After knowing Sing's specialty, Tat brings him to casinos where they meet Hung and Chung, gang leaders from Hong Kong and Taiwan respectively. Sing falls for Hung's right hand Yee Mong, who is actually an undercover sent by Chung. Yee Mong's sudden disappearance make Sing lose his power before the World Champion Tournament. Luckily, Yee Mong escapes before the tournament starts. Sing, knowing Yee Mong is safe, finally wins the throne of King of Gamblers. Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Cantonese, Mandarin (DTS + Dolby Digital) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-9
Lucky Guy, The (1998) (Remastered) Director: Lee Lik Chee Cast: Stephen Chow, Sammi Cheng Synopsis "Lucky" Coffee Shop is well-known for its egg tarts and tea. Waiter Sui, named as Prince Egg Tart, attracts lots of girls but only loves Candy. He and his friends, Nam, and Fok, all have love problems. At the same time, the coffee shop may collapse since the landlord is increasing the rent tremendously. Let's see how the lucky guys of the shop can revert this situation... Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Cantonese, Mandarin (DTS + Dolby Digital) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-9
Lost And Found (1996) (Remastered) Director: Lee Chi Ngai Cast: Takeshi Kaneshiro, Michael Wong, Kelly Chen Synopsis Kelly, suffers from leukemia, encounters a sailor named Michael who comes from the North Sea of Scotland. Love comes and goes, with so many twists and turns. Their relationship seems come to an end when Kelly refuses to go to Scotland with Michael. Until Takeshi comes to her life, but this time she is trying to escape... Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Cantonese, Mandarin (DTS + Dolby Digital) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-9

Friday, 1/28/2005 (First Update)

Fortune Star Delays

Once A Thief will now be released on February 3. Aces Go Places Box Set will now be released in late February. A Chinese Ghost Story Box Set is still scheduled for March. Some information about the upcoming A Chinese Ghost Story Box Set has been posted on Universal Japan's website: http://www.universalpictures.jp/AChineseGhostStoryBox/ Universal will be releasing the box set in Japan on April 22. The DVDs will also be available individually. The Hong Kong version of the box set should be very similar to the Japanese version. The above Japanese website lists the following extras for the DVDs: A Chinese Ghost Story James Wong interview A Chinese Ghost Story 2 James Wong interview A Chinese Ghost Story 3 Yuen Bun interview

Fortune Star/IVL Release Schedule

Thursday, 1/27/2005 (Second Update)

Universe January 21 Releases
Hero Of The Beggars (1992) Director: Anthony Chan Cast: Michael Hui, Sandra Ng, Alfred Cheung, Simon Loui, Peter Lai, Michael Chan Synopsis Ma Wai was a Company Commander of the People's Liberation Army, but due to the reduction of the army, he and his comrades were forced to work in a stable. One day, his cousin came to visit him and invited them to Guangdong to “do business” together. Upon their arrival, Wai's cousin was arrested for smuggling firearms, Wai and his fellows start off their tricky business of exchanging money in the black market and selling fake medicine. In order to get rich, they decided to sneak into Hong Kong, but they haven't the slightest idea about what lies ahead... Letterboxed Cantonese (Mono), Mandarin (Mono) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-5
My Name Is Modesty (2003) Director: Scott Spiegel Cast: Alexandra Staden, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Raymond Cruz, Fred Pearson, Valentin Teodosiu, Eugenia Yuan Synopsis An orphan who leaned to survive in the cauldron of the war-torn Balkans, Modesty Blaise (Alexandra Staden) now runs a casino in Tangiers for Mr. Louche. But her boss is killed, and armed men invade the casino, taking Modesty and fellow employees hostage. Modesty plays for time by engaging the leader of the gang (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) in endless rounds of roulette, with the prizes being the liberation of hostages versus the truth of her background. Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced English (Stereo) Chinese (Traditional) and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles Region 3 DVD-5
Kaena: The Prophecy (2003) Director: Chris Delaporte Synopsis Axis, the "tree world's" life is in danger. Its sap has almost all run out and its people's efforts to implore the gods are in vain. Kaena has strange visions and she is convinced that Axis is calling her for help. Kaena, a young girl with the heart of a rebel, defines her tribe's taboos and the Grand Priest's supreme authority and sets out on a perilous journey to Axis's deepest roots. She is helped by a mysterious creature from another world. The frightening truth that Kaena uncovers at the end of her quest will change her forever. Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Cantonese (Stereo), English (Stereo) Chinese (Traditional) and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles Region 3 DVD-5

Universe January 14 Releases
Tragic Fantasy: Tiger Of Wanchai (1994) (Remastered) Director: Steven Lo, Joseph Chi Cast: Simon Yam, Chan Miu Ying, Wan Yeung Ming, Lau Ching Wan, Roy Cheung, Charine Chan Synopsis A parking ramp attendant and would-be racing star goes from working-class zero to Triad hero when his after-hours betting ring takes off. But once he's established, the paper-thin loyalties binding his syndicate together start to give way. Letterboxed Cantonese (Mono), Mandarin (Mono) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-5
Emotional Girl (1993) Director: Chan Wing Chiu Cast: Yiu Jing Ching, Ng Shet Man, Lam Wai, Cheung Kuo Chu, Julie Lee, Teddy Chen, Lam Yi Synopsis Ivy runs into her childhood friend Jean in a night club one day. Jean invites Ivy to her home where Ivy meets Jean's father. Jean's father was deeply attracted by Ivy who is young, pretty and open-minded, and Ivy also finds unique feeling in Jean's father which she has never experienced. They fall in love instantly. However, due to their different lifestyle and age differences, their relationship doesn't last long, dissatisfaction and argument caused Ivy to leave Jean's father behind... Letterboxed Cantonese (Mono), Mandarin (Mono) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-5
Tattoo (2002) Director: Robert Schwentke Cast: August Diehl, Christian Redl, Nadeshda Brennicke, Johan Leysen Synopsis The investigation of Detective Marc and Minks leads them to the burnt corpse of a young woman and to a series of murder cases, which all have one thing in common: the perp seems to dissect his (or their?) victims with a scalpel because all of them are missing large pieces of skin. During his investigation, Marc comes across Maya, the beautiful if rather reserved girlfriend of one of the victims. She too will be sucked in the maelstrom of this case, from which there seems to be no escape... Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced German (DTS), German (DD 5.1) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles Region 3 DVD-9

Edko January 18 Releases
My Little Bride (2004) Director: Kim Ho-jun Cast: Kim Rae-won, Mun Geun-yeong Synopsis Boeun is an ordinary high school girl who worries about her study and gets a crush on baseball team ace at school. One day, her grandfather orders her and Sangmin, to get married. Sangmin, who grow up with Boeun and now an university student, always makes fun of Boeun and treats her like a little sister. Although both of them object this marriage, their undercover marriage life begins and Boeun even starts dating with the team ace. It seems that everything goes smooth until Sangmin is assigned to Boeun's school as a pupil teacher... Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Korean (DTS ES), Korean (DD Surround EX), Cantonese (Stereo) Chinese (Traditional) and English subtitles Region 3 Extras: Theatrical trailer, music video, TV spot, photo gallery, and cast/crew filmographies.
Springtime In A Small Town (2002) Director: Tian Zhuangzhuang Cast: Hu Jingfan, Wu Jun, Xin Bajqing Synopsis A country town in South China. It's the spring of 1946... Liyan is the only surviving male of the Dai family but he is very ill. His wife, Yuwen, become Liyan's nursemaid: her vivacity has given way to a numbed ennui, and she cries alone in her room at night. But everything changes when an unexpected visitor arrives. The energetic Zhang Zhichen, now a qualified doctor, is Dai Liyan's old friend in college. He is amazed to find Liyan's wife, is his own childhood neighbour and his first sweetheart. On the birthday party of Liyan's younger sister, everyone gets drunk and begins to lose control... Mandarin (Stereo) Chinese (Traditional) and English subtitles Region 3 Extras: Making of, theatrical trailer, photo gallery, and cast/crew filmographies.
Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004) Director: Alexander Witt Cast: Milla Jovovich Synopsis She thought they were contained. She thought she was free. She was wrong. Milla Jovovich returns as Alice, who has been bio-genetically enhanced after a terrible sleep, find the bloodthirsty Undead, which she fought to destroy, have been unleashed on the Raccoon City. Alice rescued some uninfected people and got in touch with Dr. Ashford - the leading scientist for the Umbrella Corporation. He promise to help the group escapes the city safely - if they find his daughter. All the while, secret weapon Nemesis has been programmed to track and destroy the Undead... English (DTS ES), English (DD EX) Chinese (Traditional) Region 3 Extras: Theatrical trailer, TV spot, cast/crew filmographies, Game Over: Resident Evil Reanimated, featurettes, deleted scenes, outtakes, and poster/photo gallery.

Thursday, 1/27/2005 (First Update)

Mega Star January 26 Releases
DVD Box	Outer Box
A World Without Thieves (2004) Director: Feng Xiaogang Cast: Andy Lau, Rene Liu Synopsis Wang Bo (Andy Lau) and Wang Li (Rene Liu) should have made the perfect Bonnie and Clyde: the former a seasoned con man and master pickpocket from Hong Kong, the latter a grifter femme fatale from Taiwan. Partners in crime and passion, the couple swindle their way across China, until one fine day Li suddenly decides to call it quits, both to her egregious lifestyle and to her entanglement with Bo. It is at this crossroad in their lives and relationships that they run into Fu Gen in a train station, an encounter that will alter their fate forever. Specs Disc 1 - Film (DVD-9) Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Audio Cantonese (Dolby Digital EX) Cantonese (DTS-ES discrete 6.1) Mandarin (Dolby Digital EX) Mandarin (DTS-ES discrete 6.1) Subtitles Cantonese Version Traditional Chinese Simplified Chinese Mandarin Version Traditional Chinese Simplified Chinese English Disc 2 - Extras (DVD-5) The Story Deleted Scenes Making Of Trailer Cast & Credits Cast & Staff Listing Biography/Filmography of Producer/Director/Cast Photo Gallery (over 200 photos) More Attractions Seoul Raiders Initial D Infernal Affairs Box Set Ad Magazine

Monday, 1/24/2005

Panorama Releases From Last 4 Weeks

Wait And See (1998) Director: Shinji Shomai Cast: Koichi Sato, Yuki Saito, Junko Fuji, Keita Okada Synopsis Hiroshi Nirasaki is in his mid-thirties, the prime of life, and he works for a securities company. Hiroshi never knew his father. As a young boy his mother told him his father had died young. Perhaps it was that early loss which propelled Hiroshi into graduating from a prestigious university and taking a job in the high-flying world of stocks and shares. With a good marriage, a beautiful wife and a son, Hiroshi's life appears to be the dream of most Japanese businessmen or salarymen. One evening, on his way home from the office, Hiroshi is accosted by a raggedy man who claims to be his father. Hiroshi is obviously surprised and confused but agrees to allow the man to stay with them for a while until things are sorted out. Japanese Chinese and English subtitles
Yoshitaro Nomura Box Set The Castle Of Sand The Incident Village Of 8 Gravestones Writhing Tongue Synopsis Four films directed by Yoshitaro Nomura. Japanese Chinese and English subtitles
Keiko Matsuzaka Box Set The Sting Of Death Fall Guy Lovers Lost The Incident Bandits Vs. Samurai Squadron Synopsis Born in Tokyo in 1952, Keiko Matsuzaka's childhood was grounded in indigenous performance and she became one of the greatest actresses in 1980s. After completing the masterpieces Hana no Ran and Kataku no Hito with director Kinji Fukasaku, Keiko stopped her career due to her marriage with a maestro. Later, she ignited her career with a seductive performance in Yonfan's Colour Blossoms, one of her most recent works, which proves she is still one of the best actresses of our time. Japanese Chinese and English subtitles
Japanese Masterpieces Box Set The Idiot Street Of Love And Hope 24-Hour Playboy Harakiri Vengeance Is Mine Synopsis Five Japanese masterpieces. Japanese Chinese and English subtitles
Hana & Alice (2004) [Regular Edition] Director: Shunji Iwai Cast: Anne Suzuki, Yu Aoi, Tomohiro Kaku Synopsis Hana (Anne Suzuki) and Alice (Yu Aoi) are childhood friends. Alice is unrestrained and free-spirited. Hana is always picking up the pieces as a result of it. But there are good things that Alice brings too, like Hana's first ever crush. Following her sudden proclamation of "love at first sight", Alice decides to follow her "love", a high school student, dragging the reluctant Hana along with her. It is then that Alice recommends Hana to consider the boy's friend, Miyamoto (Tomohiro Kaku), as a possible boyfriend. Although not interested at first, Hana soon finds herself falling for him... Japanese Chinese and English subtitles
Hana & Alice (2004) [Special Edition] Director: Shunji Iwai Cast: Anne Suzuki, Yu Aoi, Tomohiro Kaku Synopsis Hana (Anne Suzuki) and Alice (Yu Aoi) are childhood friends. Alice is unrestrained and free-spirited. Hana is always picking up the pieces as a result of it. But there are good things that Alice brings too, like Hana's first ever crush. Following her sudden proclamation of "love at first sight", Alice decides to follow her "love", a high school student, dragging the reluctant Hana along with her. It is then that Alice recommends Hana to consider the boy's friend, Miyamoto (Tomohiro Kaku), as a possible boyfriend. Although not interested at first, Hana soon finds herself falling for him... Japanese Chinese and English subtitles Extras Filming Hana & Alice (65 mins) Hana & Alice Short Films (54 mins) Trailers Teaser (35 secs) Trailer (75 secs) TV Spot (15 secs)
Tora-san's Forget Me Not (1973) Director: Yoji Yamada Cast: Kiyoshi Atsumi, Chieko Baisho, Gin Maeda, Tatsuo Matsumura, Ruriko Asaoka Synopsis The eleventh instalment in the Tora-san series. Tora-san meets Lily, the nightclub singer, when he travels to Hokkaido. Like Tora-san, Lily is a vagabond who is known for her generosity and great-heartedness. The two of them become good friends instantly. When they meet up again in Tokyo, they find themselves deeply in love with each other. Lily even said that Tora-san is the man that she loves most! On the other hand, Tora-san is determined to start a new life by being a farmer, so as to exercise and elevate both his mentality and physicality... It is another heart-warming journey full of surprises. Japanese Chinese and English subtitles

Friday, 1/14/2005

Edko Releases From Last 3 Weeks
Oldboy (2003) Director: Park Chan-Wook Cast: Choi Min-Sik, Yoo Ji-Tae Synopsis One day in 1988, ordinary-man OH Dae-su, who lives with his wife and an adorable baby daughter, is kidnapped. He later wakes up to find himself in a private makeshift prison. While suffering from his debacle, Dae-su becomes shocked when he watches the news and hears that his beloved wife was brutally murdered. 2003, Dae-su is released and he determines to find out the truth. He meets Mi-do, the cook of the restaurant Dae-su has his first-meal after his imprisonment, and tells her about his 15 years in confinement. Mido cries for sympathy and promises to help him seek vengeance. As the team approaches the truth, another shocking-secret is revealing... Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Korean (DTS ES), Korean (DD Surround EX) Chinese (Traditional) and English subtitles Region 3 Extras: Theatrical trailer, behind the scenes, TV spot, photo gallery, and cast/crew filmographies.
House Of Flying Daggers (2004) (2 Disc Version) Director: Zhang Yimou Cast: Andy Lau, Takeshi Kaneshiro, Zhang Ziyi Synopsis 859AD, the incompetent Emperor and corrupted government decline the Tang Dynasty. Rebel armies are forming; among them, underground alliance 'House of Flying Daggers' is the largest and most prestigious. Feng Tian County's two local captains, Leo and Jin are ordered to capture the House leader within ten days. Captain Leo suspects that Mei, the beautiful new dancer at the Peony Pavilion is actually the daughter of the former leader, and hatches a plan to arrest her and bring her in for questioning. At the same time, Captain Jin will pretend to be a lone warrior, Wind, rescue Mei from prison, earning her trust and escorting her to the secret headquarters of the House of Flying Daggers. The plan works but on their long journey to the House, something unexpected and uncontrollable is forming... Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Mandarin (DTS ES Discrete 6.1), Cantonese (Dolby Digital EX) Chinese (Traditional) and English subtitles Region 3 Extras: Making of, site visit, storyboard, Andy Lau in dubbing studio, theatrical trailer, TV spot, music video, photo gallery, cast/crew filmographies, and gallery of costume, prop and setting.
Open Water (2003) Director: Chris Kentis Cast: Blanchard Ryan, Daniel Travis Synopsis Based on true events, OPEN WATER follows a young couple, Daniel and Susan, on an island holiday. They join other certified scuba divers and board a local dive boat for an underwater tour of the reef. Due to a series of innocent miscommunications, the couple is, after only 40 minutes or so underwater, accidentally left behind. Cold, alone and miles from land, the couple is adrift in shark-infested waters… OPEN WATER employs not a single cheesy special effect or computer generated image. Instead, actors Blanchard Ryan and Daniel Travis spent over 120 hours in the water twenty miles off shore amidst all kinds of sea life, including the real-life, honest-to-God sharks that give the film its chilling authenticity. Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced English (DTS ES), English (DD Surround EX) Chinese (Traditional) Region 3 Extras: Theatrical trailer, making of, TV spot, photo gallery, and cast/crew filmographies.

Thursday, 1/13/2005

Universe Releases From Last 3 Weeks
White Dragon, The (2004) Director: Wilson Yip Cast: Cecilia Cheung, Francis Ng, Andy On Synopsis During Ming Dynasty in a prestigious school, there was a female student called Black Phoenix whose dream is to marry a prince and to live happily ever after. One day, a cleaning lady in the school discovers chicken feathers spread over the floor, the omen right before Blindie began to kill. To stop Blindie, she fight him on the rooftop, but she lost and was critically injured. Thinking that she might soon die, the cleaning lady, the righteous "White Dragon", passed all her inner power on to Phoenix. Few months latter, chicken feathers appeared in the bedroom of Second Prince, Phoenix's dream husband... Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Cantonese (DTS 5.1), Cantonese (DD 5.1), Mandarin (DD 5.1) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles Extras: Making Of DVD-9
Ab-Normal Beauty (2004) Director: Oxide Pang Cast: 2R (Race & Rosanne), Anson Leung Synopsis Jiney is a photography student. One day on her way to school, a woman is knocked down by a car and died horribly. Jiney witnesses the accident and takes a photo of the scene. She experienced the excitement and satisfaction she never had and obsessed with photographing death. At the same time, Jiney receives a video tape which shows a girl was beaten to death. Before Jiney finds out what to do with her abnormal behavior and who sent her the weird tape, Anson, the one sent Jiney the tape, kidnap her. Will John kill Jiney or will Jiney become another John in some other days? Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Audio Cantonese (DTS 5.1) Cantonese (DD 5.1) Mandarin (DD 5.1) Cantonese [Audio Commentary by Director & Cast] Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles Extras: Making Of DVD-9
Leave Me Alone (2004) Director: Danny Pang Cast: Ekin Cheng, Charlene Choi, Dayo Wong, Jan Lamb Synopsis Man and Kit are twins who look utterly alike. When they were eight, their parents divorced. Man lived with his mother in Hong Kong while Kit migrated to Thailand with his father. One day in their late twenties, Kit goes back to Hong Kong to visit Man. They still look utterly alike and start to share their lives over the past ten years. During the talk, Kit suddenly wants to have a drive. Without saying a word, Man passes his ID and driving license to Kit. They exchange their identities again. But they don't realize that this time they may not be able to exchange their identities back. Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Cantonese (DTS 5.1), Cantonese (DD 5.1), Mandarin (DD 5.1) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles Extras: Making Of DVD-9
Rose Rose I Love You (1993) Director: Jacky Pang Cast: Tony Leung Ka Fai, Carina Lau, Kenny Bee, Simon Yam, Veronica Yip, Charine Chan Synopsis Notorious thief Mak Gay (Simon Yam) was imprisoned for the stealing of the Malaysian Star. One night, Mak escaped from the prison and reunited with his lover Pearl Chan who keeps the key to the Malaysian Star. Detective Lui Kay (Tony Leung Ka Fai) and Leung Sing Bor (Kenny Bee) was ordered to arrest Mak and to retrieve the lost gem. In order to perform their duties, Lui and Leung will use all sorts of method to get close to Pearl... Letterboxed Cantonese (Mono), Mandarin (Mono) Chinese (Traditional), English, and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-5
Kung Fu Soccer Box Set #1 (Episodes 1-16) [TV Series]    Cast: Dicky Cheung, Sandra Ng, Anthony Wong, Joey Yung, Gillian Chung, Charlene Choi, Boy'z Full Screen Cantonese (Mono), Mandarin (Mono) Chinese (Traditional) and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-5
Kung Fu Soccer Box Set #2 (Episodes 17-33) [TV Series] Cast: Dicky Cheung, Sandra Ng, Anthony Wong, Joey Yung, Gillian Chung, Charlene Choi, Boy'z Full Screen Cantonese (Mono), Mandarin (Mono) Chinese (Traditional) and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-5
Every Woman Has A Story (2003) [Stage Play] Artistic Director: To Kwok Wai Cast: Chiu Woon, Chun Yam Mi, Berthel Eva Karsin, Yu Yuk Wah Synopsis Men often claim that a woman's greatest enemy is not men, but other women. Using more than 20 kinds of female characters, e.g. a student, an office lady, an actress, a psychologist and a sex worker, "EVERY WOMAN HAS A STORY", a play full of the humour and dramatic of life, sharing with you the joy and sadness of being a woman. Full Screen Cantonese (Mono) Chinese (Traditional) and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles DVD-5
Pocket Monsters: Celebi A Timeless Encounter/Pikachu's PikaBoo (2001) Celebi A Timeless Encounter Synopsis In order to escape from a greedy Pokemon hunter, Celebi uses the last of its energy to travel through time to the present. Trying to save Celebi, Sammy also travels to the present by accident. Along with Ash, Pikachu and the rest of the gang, Sammy and Celebi encounter an enemy far more advanced than the hunter left behind in the past. This new enemy possesses a Poke Ball called a "Dark Ball", which transforms Pokemon it captures into evil and far stronger creatures. When Celebi is captured, the fate of the entire forest is threatened... Pikachu's PikaBoo Synopsis Pikachu and his friends is playing hide & seek in the huge garden while Meowth and Wobbufett are cutting the grass. After everyone is found, Larvetar throws a rock at the lawnmower and starts it up accidentally. Here goes another chase to stop the lawnmower from crashing. Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Japanese (DTS 5.1), Japanese (DD 5.1), Cantonese (Stereo) Chinese (Traditional) and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles Region 3 DVD-5
Pocket Monsters: Pocket Monster Heroes/Camp Pikachu (2002) Pocket Monster Heroes Synopsis In a magical water city of canals and mazes, Ash, Pikachu and the rest of the gang face off against a slick pair of thieves who plan to steal an awesome and dangerous jewel guarded by Latios and Latias. To save the city from total destruction, our heroes must defeat the evil duo and overcome impossible obstacles. Let's join all your favourite characters on the greatest Pokemon adventure ever! Camp Pikachu Synopsis The Pichu Brothers are taking a trip on a train back to their hometown when they fall off and get lost in the woods they were riding through. Meeting Wynaut, as well as Volbeat and Duskull along the way, can Pikachu must go rescue his friends? Letterboxed and 16x9 enhanced Japanese (DTS 5.1), Japanese (DD 5.1), Cantonese (Stereo) Chinese (Traditional) and Chinese (Simplified) subtitles Region 3 DVD-5

Wednesday, 1/12/2005

IVL January 13 Shaw Brothers Releases

DVD/VCD
Drug Addicts, The (1973) Director: David Chiang Cast: Ti Lung, Wang Chung, Louise Lee Si-kei, Paul Chin Pei Genre: Drama Synopsis Kung-fu ace David Chiang displays a unique take on the narcotics racket in his directorial debut, The Drug Addicts. Only 26-years-old and Shaw Brothers' youngest director, David brings a youthful sensibility to this drama about a drug-addicted kung-fu instructor (Ti Lung) who not only kicks the habit but smashes a drug smuggling ring as only a martial-arts superstar can. With legendary action director Chang Cheh onboard as producer, The Drug Addicts is a fast-moving exploration of an important social issue. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (Mono) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
Fugitive, The (1972) Director: Chang Tseng-chai Cast: Li Ching, Lo Lieh, Ku Feng Genre: Action Synopsis The Fugitive is a classic "good guy turned bad, turned good guy" love story, starring Shaw Brothers' most peerless villain Lo Lieh, whose life changes for the better by the innocence of his love interest played by the award winning, nicknamed "doll and acting queen," former teen idol Li Ching. It's a film that heralds the lesser of two evils motif at the expense of becoming a tragic love story leaving the audience in stunned, handkerchief topsy-turvy land. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (DD 5.1) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
Gambler’s Delight (1981) Director: Cheng Kang Cast: Danny Lee, Tsung Hua, Ai Fei, Chen Ping Genre: Action Synopsis Talented writer Cheng Kang collaborated with Li Jung-chang and the incredibly prolific Szu Tu-an to concoct this adventure in wagering also known as The King of Gambler. The Killer star Danny Lee plays a two time loser willing to give his right arm (literally) to become a winner. He lies, cheats and steals his way into to operating a plush casino, but when he incurs the wrath of a female Japanese gang leader, all bets are off! Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (Mono), Cantonese (Mono) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, behind the scenes pictures, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
King Eagle (1970) Director: Chang Cheh Cast: Li Ching, Ti Lung, Ching Miao, Chang Pei-shan, Cheng Lei Genre: Martial Arts Synopsis The cool thing about King Eagle is that we can marvel at greatness during its humble beginnings. Ti Lung's future, lone, wandering, swordsman characters can be traced to this Chang Cheh directed film. We can also witness a break out action role for Shaw Brothers' "baby and acting queen" of drama Li Ching. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (DD 5.1) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
Singing Killer, The (1970) Director: Chang Cheh Cast: David Chiang, Wang Ping, Tina Chin-fei, Ti Lung Genre: Action Synopsis "Godfather of the kung-fu film" Chang Cheh even wrote the song lyrics for this special crime thriller. David Chiang stars as a nightclub vocalist whose former criminal friends blackmail him into working with them again. In addition to such exceptional stalwarts as Ti Lung and Ku Feng, the rest of the cast includes such action actors as Chen Hsing (The Invincible Fist) and Stanley Feng Tsui-fan (Hong Kong Superman) - all under the guidance of master kung-fu choreographers Liu Chia-liang and Tang Chia. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (DD 5.1) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Elegant Trails: David Chiang Elegant Trails: Ti Lung Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, behind the scenes pictures, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
2005 Shaw Brothers Schedule

IVL December 30 Shaw Brothers Releases

DVD/VCD
Amorous Lotus Pan, The (1963) Director: Chow Sze-loke Cast: Diana Chang Chung-wen, Pai Yun, Paul Chang Chung, Hung Wie, Huang King Genre: Huangmei Opera Synopsis This was one of Chow Sze-loke's final movies after a thirty-year career. The script, by future "godfather of the kung-fu film," Chang Cheh, tells the story of a poor but beautiful girl who starts her eventful and erotic road to doom as a maid of a rich man. Diana Chang Chung-wen, comely costar of The Empress Wu, ably plays the girl who becomes the wife of a midget, the mistress of a playboy, a husband murderer, the seductress of her brother-in-law, and, ultimately, his victim as well. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (Mono) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, behind the scenes pictures, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
Assassin, The (1967) Director: Chang Cheh Cast: Jimmy Wang Yu, Chiao Chiao, Li Hsiang-chun, Tien Feng, Huang Tsung-shun Genre: Martial Arts Synopsis In the same year director/writer Chang Cheh and star Jimmy Wang Yu revolutionized Hong Kong kung-fu cinema with One-Armed Swordsman, they also collaborated on this epic of the Six Kingdoms era. Here, Yu is a two-armed swordsman who is betrayed by a jealous rival, but initially seeks a life of simple pleasures until an accidental meeting with another patriot sets him back on the road to bloody, brutal vengeance. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (DD 5.1) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: The Master: Chang Cheh Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, behind the scenes pictures, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
King Boxer, The (1972) Director: Cheng Chang-ho Cast: Lo Lieh, Wang Ping, Wang Chin-feng Genre: Martial Arts Synopsis Months before Bruce Lee burst onto the international scene with Enter the Dragon, this powerful story of tragedy, torture, redemption, and revenge premiered across America under the unforgettable title Five Fingers Of Death. It went on to become the first international martial arts movie hit and made a continent-spanning star of Lo Lieh. Now, finally, after more than thirty years, the original King Boxer takes its rightful place as the film that started it all for the Western world. Letterboxed (2.35:1) Languages: Mandarin (DD 5.1) Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English Region 3 Extras: Trailers, picture gallery, poster art, biographies/filmographies, and production notes.
VCD Only
Black Butterfly, The (1968) Director: Lo Wei Cast: Chiao Chiao, Yueh Hua, Chen Hung-lieh, Lo Wei, Tien Feng Genre: Martial Arts Synopsis The prolific, accomplished, multi-talented Lo Wei, famous for giving both Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan their "big breaks" here directs and co-stars as the "Head of Thieves" in one of his most interesting and exciting martial arts thrillers. There's hidden gold, ruthless bandits, precious jade, a drunken master beggar, a stolen royal emblem, the daunting Five Devils Rock, and even more in this exciting and surprising epic about a "Robin Hood" of the "Martial Arts World". Languages: Mandarin Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English
Temptress Of A Thousand Faces (1968) aka The Temptress With 1,000 Faces Director: Cheng Chang-ho Cast: Pat Ting Hung, Tina Chin-fei, Chen Liang, Carrie Ku Mei Genre: Drama Synopsis A mystery caper of devilish fun, Temptress Of A Thousand Faces proves a femme fatale can match any man in wickedness. A mysterious thief has been committing crimes across the city. Reversing the standard role stereotypes, it is the man here who then becomes the damsel (or dude as the case may be) in distress as the mistress of disguise starts impersonating the police woman and even fools her boyfriend. With a wonderful surprise ending, this is simple irresistible. Languages: Mandarin Subtitles: Chinese (Traditional), English
2004 Shaw Brothers Schedule