Category: News

  • Action Unleashed: “Ultimate Revenge” Gets the Green Light for Hong Kong Release

    The pulse-pounding action thriller “Ultimate Revenge,” directed by the visionary Terry Ng, has just been granted a Category IIB rating by the Hong Kong Office for Film, Newspaper and Article Administration (OFNAA), signaling that the film is ready to hit the screens in Hong Kong. This stamp of approval means that audiences can prepare for an adrenaline-fuelled cinematic experience that promises to redefine the action genre.

    “Ultimate Revenge” stars Hong Kong’s very own action icon, Andy On, in what is being described as one of his most physically demanding roles to date. Known for his martial arts prowess and screen presence, On’s return to the Hong Kong film scene with this movie has fans and critics alike buzzing with anticipation. The film dives deep into the world of vengeance, where On’s character, a former assassin seeking redemption, navigates through a labyrinth of betrayal and high-stakes combat.

    Director Terry Ng, who has a reputation for blending traditional Hong Kong action with modern storytelling, has crafted “Ultimate Revenge” as a tribute to the city’s rich cinematic heritage while pushing the envelope with innovative fight choreography and narrative depth. The film’s action sequences are said to pay homage to the likes of John Woo and Tsui Hark, with each scene choreographed to not only showcase physical agility but also emotional depth.

    The Category IIB rating, which is given to films suitable for viewers aged 18 and above, suggests that “Ultimate Revenge” will not shy away from the gritty, raw aspects of its story. This rating indicates that the film will feature intense action, possibly with elements of violence or themes that require a mature perspective, ensuring that the audience is in for a no-holds-barred cinematic ride.

    Hong Kong’s film industry has been eagerly awaiting this release, not just for the return of Andy On to local cinema but also for the potential of “Ultimate Revenge” to revitalize interest in home-grown action films. The movie promises to be a visual feast, with action scenes shot in some of Hong Kong’s iconic locations, adding a layer of authenticity and local flavor to the international appeal of the film.

    As the release date approaches, marketing for “Ultimate Revenge” is ramping up, with sneak peeks of the action and behind-the-scenes footage stirring excitement. Fans can expect exclusive previews, interviews with the cast and crew, and perhaps even special screenings where they can witness the action live.

    With “Ultimate Revenge,” Terry Ng and Andy On are not just delivering a film; they’re inviting audiences into a narrative that explores the essence of revenge, the quest for justice, and the human spirit’s resilience. Hong Kong’s cinemas are gearing up for what could be one of the year’s biggest action spectacles, where every punch, kick, and narrative twist is a testament to the city’s enduring legacy in the world of action cinema.

  • EarthMix Makes Triumphant Return to Hong Kong for Exclusive Fan Meeting

    Get ready, Hong Kong, because the dynamic duo from Thailand, EarthMix, is coming back to town to give their fans an unforgettable experience! Earth Pirapat and Mix Sahaphap, known for their magnetic chemistry on and off-screen, have announced they will grace Regala Skycity Hotel with their presence for a special fan meeting on March 30, 2025.

    After winning hearts worldwide with their roles in series like “A Tale of Thousand Stars” and “Moonlight Chicken,” EarthMix has cultivated a legion of fans eager for any chance to see them in person. This event marks their return to Hong Kong, following a memorable fan meet in 2024 that left fans clamoring for more.

    This fan meeting isn’t just a simple gathering; it’s set to be a night where fans can dive into the world of EarthMix. From exclusive performances to intimate Q&A sessions, attendees can look forward to a plethora of activities designed to bring fans closer to their idols. Imagine reenactments of iconic scenes from their shows, but with a twist, or perhaps a live performance that has the duo showcasing their talents in singing and dancing.

    The choice of Regala Skycity Hotel as the venue adds an extra layer of excitement. Known for its modern facilities and proximity to the Hong Kong International Airport, it’s the perfect spot for an event where fans from around the region could converge. The hotel’s spacious venues, like the Regala Grand Ballroom, promise an atmosphere where every fan can feel the energy and warmth of EarthMix’s presence.

    Tickets for this much-anticipated event are set to go on sale imminently, and as with all EarthMix events, they’re expected to sell out faster than a blink. The fan meeting promises exclusive merchandise, photo opportunities, and perhaps even some surprises that only EarthMix could deliver. Whether you’re a long-time follower or a new fan captivated by their charm, this is your chance to connect with Earth and Mix in a way that transcends the screen.

    For those who couldn’t attend their previous engagements or are new to the EarthMix phenomenon, this fan meeting is your golden ticket to an evening filled with laughter, tears, and the unique bond only shared between fans and their beloved stars. Mark your calendars, set your alarms for ticket sales, and prepare for a night where Hong Kong will once again become the backdrop for an unforgettable chapter in the EarthMix saga.

    The anticipation is building, the excitement is palpable, and Hong Kong is ready to welcome back EarthMix with open arms and hearts full of love. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of something special, where the magic of fan interaction meets the brilliance of EarthMix.

  • Stuntman Shines at the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards: A Double Nomination for Action Brilliance

    In the glitzy world of Hong Kong cinema, where every frame is a dance of danger and daring, the film “Stuntman” has leaped into the spotlight with not one, but two nominations at the prestigious 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards. This high-flying tribute to the unsung heroes of action cinema has been recognized for Best Action Choreography and Best New Director, proving that there’s more to this movie than just gravity-defying stunts.
    “Stuntman” has captured the hearts of moviegoers and critics alike with its raw portrayal of the lives behind the stunts, often risking life and limb for the perfect shot. The nominations come as a nod to the film’s meticulous choreography, where each leap, punch, and crash was executed with an intense passion for the art of action. The film’s director, making their debut on this grand stage, has been lauded for breathing new life into the genre, bringing a fresh narrative to the silver screen that pays homage to the stuntmen and women who make movie magic possible.
    The Best Action Choreography nomination highlights the breathtaking sequences that have become a hallmark of Hong Kong cinema. From the bustling streets of Hong Kong turned into a playground for high-octane chases to the intricate fight scenes that feel like a ballet of brutality, “Stuntman” showcases the skill and creativity behind every stunt.
    But the excitement doesn’t stop there. The Best New Director nomination reflects the visionary approach of the film’s helm, who managed to blend nostalgia with innovation. This director has not only captured the essence of Hong Kong’s action legacy but has also pushed the boundaries, ensuring that each scene tells a story beyond the action.
    As the awards night approaches, the buzz around “Stuntman” is palpable. Fans and cinephiles are eagerly awaiting to see if this film, which celebrates the heart and soul of Hong Kong’s action genre, will take home the coveted trophies. Will “Stuntman” soar to new heights at the Hong Kong Film Awards, or will it be a bittersweet acknowledgment of the dangers and dedication that define this unique filmmaking niche?
    With its nominations, “Stuntman” has already won in the arena of public appreciation, reminding us all of the courage, creativity, and camaraderie that thrive behind the scenes. As the film community gathers to honor the best in Hong Kong cinema, “Stuntman” stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of action cinema, where every stunt is a story, and every story deserves to be told.

  • Hong Kong Filmart’s Digital Leap: IP Platform Expansion Set to Revolutionize Entertainment Trading

    Hold onto your scripts, Hong Kong, because the city’s entertainment industry is about to take a giant leap into the future! On February 16, 2025, news broke that Hong Kong Filmart, the city’s premier film and TV market, is gearing up for a game-changing expansion of its intellectual property (IP) platform, with ambitions to create a full-fledged online marketplace that could redefine how entertainment content is traded across Asia and beyond. This isn’t just a tech upgrade—it’s a bold move to cement Hong Kong’s status as the beating heart of the region’s creative economy, and the buzz is absolutely electric.

    Filmart, long celebrated as Asia’s leading marketplace for films, TV series, animations, and more, is no stranger to innovation. But this latest initiative, spearheaded by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), is nothing short of a revolution. Picture this: a sleek, centralized digital hub where filmmakers, producers, distributors, and buyers from around the globe can browse, pitch, and trade IPs with the ease of a few clicks. It’s like the Netflix of film markets, but instead of binge-watching, you’re binge-dealing—connecting creative minds with the cash and clout to bring their visions to life. The platform, set to go live for a 10-week stretch from late February to mid-April, is designed to be more than just a virtual booth; it’s a comprehensive IP Catalogue, brimming with detailed project information, from synopses and trailers to promotional materials, all enhanced by advanced search and filtering capabilities that make finding the perfect project a breeze.

    The timing couldn’t be more perfect. With the 29th in-person edition of Filmart scheduled for March 17-20, 2025, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, this digital expansion is set to supercharge the physical event, creating a seamless hybrid experience that extends far beyond the four-day show. “This is about empowering our visitors to explore projects before, during, and after the market,” enthused Candas Yeung, associate director of the HKTDC’s service promotion department, her excitement palpable. “We’re addressing the industry’s demand for a centralized hub for IP trading, amplifying business matching opportunities, and solidifying Hong Kong’s stature as Asia’s premier IP-trading nexus.” And she’s not exaggerating—last year’s Filmart attracted over 760 exhibitors from 27 countries and more than 7,500 industry representatives, and this year’s digital boost is expected to draw even more global players into the fold.

    But what does this mean for the filmmakers, producers, and dreamers at the heart of Hong Kong’s entertainment scene? For starters, it’s a golden opportunity to showcase their work on an unprecedented scale. Imagine a scrappy indie filmmaker from Kowloon uploading their passion project to the IP Catalogue, only to have it discovered by a major streaming platform in Seoul or a distributor in Los Angeles—all before they even set foot in the convention center. The platform’s advanced features, like tailored search functions and direct connection tools, mean that exhibitors can cut through the noise and connect with the right buyers, investors, and partners, turning potential into profit. “This is a game-changer for efficiency,” Yeung added, her voice brimming with confidence. “It’s about creating a marketplace where IP trading is as smooth as streaming your favorite show.”

    The impact is already being felt. Industry veterans are buzzing about the potential for cross-border collaborations, with Hong Kong’s unique position as a gateway to China and a bridge to the West making it the perfect hub for this digital revolution. “Filmart has always been the place where East meets West,” said one insider, who’s already planning to leverage the platform to pitch a Hong Kong-Japan co-production. “But now, with this online marketplace, it’s like we’ve opened a 24/7 trading floor that never sleeps.” And it’s not just about films—TV series, animations, and even gaming IPs are set to benefit, reflecting Filmart’s evolution into a true multimedia powerhouse.

    Of course, this bold move doesn’t come without its challenges. Hong Kong’s entertainment industry has faced its share of hurdles in recent years, from declining box office receipts—down 37 percent to $3.9 million over the Lunar New Year—to the lingering effects of geopolitical tensions and a shifting market landscape. Critics argue that while the digital platform is a step forward, it must be backed by real investment in local talent and infrastructure to truly thrive. “It’s all well and good to have a shiny new platform,” cautioned one local producer, “but if we don’t nurture our filmmakers and storytellers, we risk becoming just a middleman for other markets.” Others see the expansion as a chance to reclaim Hong Kong’s cinematic glory days, with the city’s rich history of action epics, dramas, and comedies serving as a foundation for a new era of global influence.

    As the countdown to Filmart 2025 begins, the excitement is palpable. Will this IP platform expansion be the spark that reignites Hong Kong’s entertainment industry, or is it a high-stakes gamble in an increasingly competitive global market? One thing is certain: the eyes of the world are on Hong Kong, and with this digital leap, the city is poised to write its next blockbuster chapter. So, grab your virtual badge, Hong Kong, and get ready to pitch, trade, and triumph—because the future of entertainment is just a click away!

  • Louis Koo and Phillip Ng Steal the Spotlight: Best Supporting Actor Nods at Hong Kong Film Awards

    Lights, camera, action—and a double dose of star power! The Hong Kong film scene is buzzing with excitement as two of its most electrifying talents, Louis Koo and Phillip Ng, have snagged coveted nominations for Best Supporting Actor at the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards. Announced on February 14, 2025, this dazzling duo’s recognition for their jaw-dropping performances in the action-packed blockbuster Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In has set tongues wagging and anticipation soaring.

    In a city that lives and breathes cinema, the Hong Kong Film Awards are the crown jewel of the industry, and this year’s nominees are proving why the city remains a global powerhouse of storytelling. Louis Koo, the suave veteran known for his magnetic screen presence, transforms into the enigmatic Cyclone, a character as complex as he is commanding. Meanwhile, martial arts maestro Phillip Ng delivers a knockout performance as King, blending raw physicality with emotional depth that leaves audiences reeling. Both actors have long been darlings of the Hong Kong entertainment scene, but their latest roles have elevated them to new heights, earning them a well-deserved spot in the awards spotlight.

    Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In, directed by the visionary Soi Cheang, is already a frontrunner in the awards race, racking up nominations across multiple categories. Set against the gritty backdrop of Kowloon Walled City, the film is a love letter to Hong Kong’s cinematic legacy, blending high-octane action with a nostalgic nod to the city’s golden age of filmmaking. Koo’s Cyclone, a brooding figure shrouded in mystery, and Ng’s King, a fierce warrior with a heart of gold, are the beating pulse of the film, their chemistry igniting the screen in every frame.

    For Louis Koo, this nomination is yet another feather in an already illustrious cap. A household name in Hong Kong, Koo has seamlessly transitioned from heartthrob to action hero to dramatic powerhouse over the years, earning a legion of fans and critical acclaim along the way. His portrayal of Cyclone is a masterclass in restraint, with every glance and gesture dripping with gravitas. Industry insiders are already whispering that this could be Koo’s year to finally clinch the elusive Best Supporting Actor trophy, adding to his already impressive awards haul.

    Phillip Ng, on the other hand, is the dark horse of the race, but don’t let that fool you—this martial arts virtuoso is a force to be reckoned with. Known for his jaw-dropping stunts and lightning-fast moves, Ng brings an intensity to King that is nothing short of electrifying. Yet, it’s his ability to convey vulnerability beneath the bravado that has critics and fans alike singing his praises. For Ng, this nomination is a testament to his evolution as an actor, proving he’s more than just a man of action—he’s a storyteller in his own right.

    As the awards ceremony approaches, the buzz around Koo and Ng is reaching fever pitch. Will Louis Koo’s seasoned brilliance outshine the competition, or will Phillip Ng’s raw energy steal the show? One thing is certain: their performances in Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In have already cemented their status as two of Hong Kong’s brightest stars.

    The 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards promises to be a night of glitz, glamour, and nail-biting suspense, and with Koo and Ng in the running, the Best Supporting Actor category is shaping up to be one of the evening’s most thrilling showdowns. So, grab your popcorn, Hong Kong—because this is one cinematic battle you won’t want to miss!

  • Hong Kong to WTO: U.S. Tariff on Our Goods Unjust

    In a bold move that could shake up international trade relations, Hong Kong is gearing up to file a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) against the United States over a recently imposed 10% tariff on goods from Hong Kong. This action, described by Hong Kong officials as “unjust and unwarranted,” could have ripple effects across the entertainment industry and beyond.

    The tariff, which came into effect just days ago, has raised eyebrows and temperatures alike in Hong Kong’s bustling trade circles. It’s not just about the numbers on paper; it’s about the stories, the films, the music, and all the cultural exports that could now face higher costs or reduced market access in one of the world’s largest economies.

    From the gleaming screens of Hollywood to the intimate indie scenes, Hong Kong’s entertainment industry has long been a significant player on the global stage, known for its unique blend of East meets West. With this tariff, there’s a palpable fear that the cost of doing business, of sharing stories and sounds, could escalate, potentially dampening the vibrancy of cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and the U.S.

    Hong Kong’s decision to take this matter to the WTO underscores a determination to fight for its economic and cultural interests. The complaint is not just about the economic implications but also about defending the principle of free trade and the flow of cultural goods that enrich global audiences.

    The entertainment sector is particularly on edge. For filmmakers, musicians, and artists, the U.S. market represents not just profit but prestige and exposure. This tariff could mean higher costs for American distributors buying Hong Kong content or even hesitance in picking up new projects due to the added financial burden.

    The WTO complaint will likely delve into the legal intricacies of trade agreements, questioning the rationale behind the U.S. tariff. Is this a move aimed at geopolitical tensions, or is there another layer to this economic chess game? Hong Kong officials have hinted at broader geopolitical motivations, suggesting that this tariff might be less about trade and more about sending a message.

    As this story unfolds, the eyes of the world will be on Geneva, where the WTO operates, watching how this dispute might shape future trade policies, not just for Hong Kong but for international cultural exchanges. This isn’t just a trade war; it’s a cultural standoff where the stakes are the stories we tell and the music we share.

    For now, the entertainment industry in Hong Kong watches, waits, and prepares for what could be a prolonged battle, hoping that the WTO will see the light in their argument, opening up the stage for Hong Kong’s creativity to shine once more on the global scene.

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