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Film Review: Maximum Risk (1996) - USA Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   Rating: 6.5/10   In "Maximum Risk," Jean-Claude Van Damme takes on a dual role in this action-packed thriller directed by Ringo Lam, marking the beginning of a series of collaborations between the two. The narrative revolves around French detective Alain Moreau, who finds himself thrust into a web of intrigue involving Russian criminals and corrupt officials in the United States due to his uncanny resemblance to a deceased mob informant. The film, while delivering on action sequences and intricate plot twists, falls short...

Film Review: Daughter's Daughter 女兒的女兒 (2024) - Taiwan Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   Rating: 7/10 In "Daughter's Daughter," director Huang Xi delves into the intricate layers of familial relationships with a poignant narrative that unfolds gradually, much like the delicate process of thawing frozen emotions. At the heart of this Taiwanese drama lies the powerhouse performance of Sylvia Chang, whose portrayal of Jin "Ai" Aixia resonates with a depth that only a seasoned veteran can deliver. The film navigates through themes of loss, reconciliation, and the complexities of motherhood as Aixia grapples with the sudden...

Film Review: An Abandoned Team 得寵先生 (2024) - Hong Kong Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   Rating: 7.5/10   In the heartwarming tale "An Abandoned Team," directors Thomas Lee and Daniel Ho deliver a poignant exploration of family dynamics, redemption, and the profound connections between humans and animals. The film introduces us to Kai, portrayed with depth and nuance by the veteran Lawrence Cheng in a role that showcases his acting prowess. Kai's life is in disarray—struggling with retirement, a broken marriage, and a strained relationship with his daughter. However, a chance encounter with a stray...

Film Review: Kickboxer (1989) - USA Rating - 7/10   Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   "Kickboxer," a 1989 action-packed martial arts film directed by David Worth and featuring the burgeoning talents of Jean-Claude Van Damme, presents a compelling narrative interwoven with intense fight sequences that captivate from start to finish. At the core of this film is a tale of vengeance, as Van Damme's character, Kurt Sloane, embarks on a mission to avenge his brother's brutal paralysis at the hands of the ruthless kickboxing champion Tong Po, played with menacing flair by Michel Qissi. The...

  Film Review: Papa 爸爸 (2024) - Hong Kong Rating: 9/10   Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   In the somber and poignant film "Papa" (2024), director Philip Yung takes viewers on an emotionally charged journey through the shattered world of Yuen, portrayed with raw intensity by Lau Ching Wan. This Hong Kong family drama delves deep into the profound grief and turmoil that ensue after Yuen's wife and daughter fall victim to the hands of his mentally ill son. Lau Ching Wan's performance is nothing short of remarkable, as he deftly navigates the complex layers...