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Film Review: Her Story 好東西 (2024) - China Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   Rating - 9/10   In the 2024 Chinese feminist comedy-drama "Her Story", director Shao Yihui crafts a poignant narrative that delves into the lives of Wang Tiemei (portrayed by the talented Song Jia), a resilient single mother, and her daughter Wang Moli (played by Zeng Mumei), as they embark on a new chapter in their lives in Shanghai. The film beautifully captures the essence of female camaraderie and empowerment through the unlikely bond formed between Wang Tiemei and her neighbor, Xiao Ye...

Film Review: Panda Plan 熊貓計劃 (2024) - China Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)   Rating - 8/10   In "Panda Plan (2024)," Jackie Chan delivers a performance that reminds us of his classic films, blending comedy with exhilarating fight scenes that have defined his career. Directed by ZHANG Luan, this movie is a delightful mix of entertainment and emotion, though the CGI panda could use some refinement. The story follows Jackie Chan's character as he visits Noah Zoo to adopt a famous little panda named "Hu Hu." What begins as a simple visit turns into a...

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...