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Film Review: As It Burns 白晝如焚 (2024) - Hong Kong Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia) Director LEE Po Cheung's "As It Burns" aspires to kindle intrigue, but unfortunately, it fails to deliver on its promise, resulting in a disappointing cinematic experience. This Hong Kong film suffers from a multitude of flaws, including a lackluster script, subpar acting, and questionable directing choices. The film's Achilles' heel lies in its script, which lacks cohesiveness and coherence. The narrative feels disjointed, leaving viewers disoriented and detached from the characters' journeys. The contrived dialogue fails to evoke genuine emotions or...

Film Review: Shaolin Temple (少林寺) (1976) - Hong Kong (Shawscope Volume 1) (Arrow Video) Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   “Shaolin Temple” serves as a pseudo prequel to "Five Shaolin Masters" and depicts the Shaolin monks' rebellion against the oppressive Qing dynasty. It also featured a talented Shaw Brothers cast including David Chiang, Ti Lung, and Alexander Fu Sheng. Director Chang Cheh expertly combines intense action with moments of introspection, resulting in a memorable depiction of the historical tale. The film excels in immersing viewers in the world of the “Shaolin Temple”, providing detailed depictions of...

Film Review: Five Shaolin Masters (少林五祖) (1974) - Hong Kong (Shawscope Volume 1) (Arrow Video) Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia) “Five Shaolin Masters”, also known as “5 Masters of Death”, is a 1974 Shaw Brothers kung fu film directed by the legendary Chang Cheh. With remarkable action choreography by Lau Kar Leung and Lau Kar Wing, the film brings together a stellar cast, including David Chiang, Ti Lung, Alexander Fu Sheng, Chi Kuan Chun, Meng Fei, and Wang Lung Wei. “Five Shaolin Masters” is a true gem of the martial arts genre, showcasing the prowess and...

Film Review: YOLO (熱辣滾燙) (2024) - China Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   YOLO (熱辣滾燙) is a Chinese comedy-drama film directed by Jia Ling, starring Jia Ling and Lei Jiayin, which serves as a comedic adaptation of the acclaimed 2014 Japanese film "100 Yen Love." The story revolves around Du Leying, a woman who has spent years confined to her home, but her life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters boxing coach Hao Kun. From there, Du Leying embarks on a transformative journey, facing and overcoming various challenges while discovering her strength and resilience. Jia...

Film Review: Sheriff: Narko Integriti (警長：捉內鬼) (2024) - Malaysia Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   "Sheriff: Narko Integriti," directed by Syafiq Yusof and based on a story by Yusof Haslam, is a gripping Malaysian mystery action thriller that explores the dark world of crime and corruption. Led by Zul Ariffin in the titular role, supported by Syafiq Kyle, Aaron Aziz, Elizabeth Tan, and Azira Shafinaz, the film takes viewers on a thrilling journey through contemporary Malaysia. Sheriff, a brave and determined law enforcement officer, finds himself entangled in a complex web of deceit and betrayal as...