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Film Review: Customs Frontline (海關戰線) (2024) - Hong Kong / China Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia) Directed by Herman Yau, “Customs Frontline” disappoints with its poor pacing and weak script. Despite the efforts of first-time action director and star Nicholas Tse, the film suffers from a lack of character development and a ridiculous plotline. Director Herman Yau's usually efficient filmmaking is not showcased in this film. The potential chemistry between Jacky Cheung and Karena Lam is wasted, failing to recreate the magic of their previous award-winning collaboration. Francis Ng's special appearance is also underwhelming. The plot...

Film Review: Once Upon a Time in HKDSE 公開試當真 (2024) - Hong Kong Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia) “Once Upon a Time in HKDSE” is a poignant and relevant documentary that explores the profound impact of the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) examination on the lives of students. Directed by Leung Yik-ho, this film sensitively captures the struggles, dreams, and aspirations of its central characters, Hong and Hui, a former DSE taker turned filmmaker. The documentary effectively connects with its audience, provoking thoughtful conversations and raising important questions about the pressures faced by young individuals...

Film Review: Yakuza Wolf 1: Perform Murder 狼やくざ 殺しは俺がやる(1972) Japan Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia) “Yakuza Wolf” is a gripping crime drama that takes audiences on a thrilling journey into the treacherous world of the Japanese yakuza. Directed by Ryuichi Takamori and featuring a standout performance by Sonny Chiba, the film weaves together intense action, emotional depth, and carefully crafted erotic moments. The story follows a man seeking vengeance for his father's murder at the hands of the yakuza. Driven by grief and a burning desire for justice, he embarks on a dangerous mission to dismantle...

Film Review: Shaolin Wooden Men (少林木人巷) (1976) (Blu Ray) (88 Films) Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia) “Shaolin Wooden Men”, directed by Chen Chi-Hwa and starring Jackie Chan, is a 1976 Hong Kong action film that showcases Chan's extraordinary kung fu talent. Set in the post-Bruce Lee era, the movie was produced at Lo Wei's studio at Golden Harvest. With its emphasis on Chan's physical abilities and Chen's creative direction, “Shaolin Wooden Men” stands out as a remarkable martial arts film. Chen Chi-Hwa's directorial vision brings a fresh perspective to the fight sequences in the film. His...

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...