News

Film Review: A Quiet Place: Day One 無聲絕境外傳：首襲日 (2024) - USA   Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   “A Quiet Place: Day One” takes us back to the early stages of the alien invasion in New York City. Written and directed by Michael Sarnoski, this prequel and spin-off in the A Quiet Place film series offers a visually immersive experience with minimal dialogue.   The film showcases humanity's struggle for survival through intense close-ups and raw emotions. While some scenes excel more than others, the bar scene stands out as Lupita Nyong'o and Joseph Quinn find...

Film Review: The Garfield Movie 加菲貓：勇闖世界 (2024) - USA Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia) “The Garfield Movie” presents a mixed bag of entertainment. The film struggles to stay true to the original comic character, deviating from Garfield's lazy and food-loving persona in favor of a Tom Cruise-inspired “Mission Impossible” cat. This departure from the core essence of Garfield may disappoint fans who were hoping for a faithful adaptation. One significant flaw lies in the film's pacing, as the middle part tends to drag, making the movie feel longer than necessary. However, it does have its redeeming...

Film Review: Long Arm of the Law (省港旗兵) (1984) - Hong Kong (2K) (Blu Ray) (88 Films)   Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   Gritty, brutal, and grippingly realistic, “Long Arm of the Law” is a masterpiece of Hong Kong crime cinema. Directed by the visionary Johnny Mak, this 1984 thriller offers a stark, documentary-style exploration of the criminal underworld, following a group of undocumented Chinese migrants as they build their own illicit empire in the shadows of the city.   Mak's assured direction is the driving force, with his camera capturing the stark urban landscapes...

Film Review: Boudica: Queen of War (2023) - UK   Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   Directed by Jesse V. Johnson, “Boudica: Queenie of War” is a British action drama that brings the legendary Celtic warrior, “Boudica”, to life. Despite budget constraints, the film impresses with convincing action sequences, showcasing Johnson's ability to effectively maximize resources. However, character development falls short, leaving the audience yearning for deeper connections. Nonetheless, the one-on-one fights and battle scenes are well-executed, capturing the intensity and power of Boudica's rebellion against the Romans.   Olga Kurylenko delivers a commendable performance as...

Film Review: Dirty Ho (爛頭何) (1979) - Hong Kong (Shawscope Volume 1) (Arrow Video) Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia) “Dirty Ho” is a Hong Kong martial arts comedy film directed by Lau Kar-leung. Starring the talented Gordon Liu and Wong Yue, the film presents a delightful blend of action and comedy, making it a highly entertaining and enjoyable ride. Gordon Liu's performance in “Dirty Ho” is a standout. Known for his martial arts prowess, Liu showcases his skills while infusing the character with a comedic touch. His portrayal is captivating, and his impeccable timing and physicality...