Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Coco Lee marriage on Oct 27 2011

Singer Coco Lee will be getting married in Hong Kong this coming Thursday (Oct 27).

Not only is she busy with the preparations of her lavish wedding, Coco had even took the time to compose her own wedding march 'I just wanna marry you' and the song was recently leaked to the public.

It is said that Coco personally penned the lyrics to this song, which describes her feelings for her Canadian fiancé Bruce.

The self-composed song was meant to be a surprise gift to Bruce and Coco's happiness was evident from the line, "one love, one dream, one simple song about you & me (sic)".

The song was initially written in English; however, the singer's friends and family later felt that the song should be distributed to the media, so that other couples could also experience the same bliss and happiness in the song. The bilingual artiste heeded the advice of others and decided to pen the Chinese lyrics herself.

"The entire production process went on smoothly. Maybe because the wedding day is drawing near, so I feel that there is not enough time. Luckily, [everything] is completed and I'm satisfied [with the song]," said Coco.

The singer will also make a special music video for the song, after her wedding and a short break. This will be her first job after her marriage and the music video will not only include snippets of the couple's happy moments, but will also have photos provided by netizens.

When asked if she will continue to work after marriage, Coco emphasised that she "will" continue working because she is passionate about whatever she is doing now.

News : Golden Bell Awards

Taiwanese singer-actor Wilber Pan's Best Actor win at the Golden Bell Awards last week, surprised many. This led to much negativity from the public, including criticisms like "the judges were blind" and "on what grounds [did he win]".

However, Wilber took it in his stride and remained optimistic, causing friends to call him "the male version of Lin Chi-ling" because of his high EQ.

During an interview on Oct 23, Wilber spoke of the criticisms thrown towards him. The actor let on that during filming, he could not cry due to the lack of experience. Then, the director chided him, saying that he could only be an idol.

"I'm not afraid of being chided or tormented. This is a good thing; they motivate me towards my goal," he expressed.

Wilber added optimistically, "Those who criticised me probably never had the chance to watch Endless Love. Maybe this [win] will encourage them to watch how bad I acted in it. Maybe after they finished watching it, they'd think 'It wasn't that bad'. It's a gain for me if people watch my dramas."

In Endless Love, Wilber played a young man, who is looked down upon because of his humble origins. His character bore many similarities to his road to stardom.

"From the time I entered showbiz, I've been verbally put down. When I was a VJ, the director told me off. During Happy Campus, I was yelled at because I didn't know how to position myself. When I released my first album, people laughed and asked, 'Is the record label crazy?' During a screening for Happy Campus, reporters even asked, 'Why am I even here?' It's painful to hear that, but I've accepted it," the actor said.

Happy Campus producer Ke Yiqin, who had watched Wilber's performances over the years, came to the actor's defense, "His performance in Endless Love was natural and in character. Maybe the drama didn't stand out enough, causing many to question his acting. This doesn't mean he's not good."

Wilber had returned to Taiwan from China, and would be throwing a party to celebrate his win. The celebration is said to cost NT$200,000 (S$8,400). In addition, he will also be treating the production crew to a karaoke session.

News : YOU ARE THE APPLE OF MY EYE

Taiwan hit film YOU ARE THE APPLE OF MY EYE since its Thursday Hong Kong opening has been on a roll. In the past weekend it continued to sell out every show. In the afternoon and evening peaks some cinemas even added screens last minute and sold out every one immediately. The film not only has topped the box office daily but also broken the Hong Kong record.

According to the Motion Picture Industry Association information, YOU in its first four days including advanced screenings already accumulated HK$11,525,621, the number broke many Hong Kong box office
records including the October first opening weekend highest box office, a record that INFERNAL AFFAIRS 2 (MO GAN DOH 2) created in 2003 and maintained for eight years; it also became the highest grossing opening weekend for a Taiwan film in Hong Kong, surpassing LUST, CAUTION; the most viewers in first four days of release in Hong Kong in 2011 with 211,163 people, surpassing 3D SEX AND ZEN: EXTREME ECSTASY; 2011 first four day 2D film total box office. The situation in Macau was even more incredible, Saturday and Sunday its City Hall cinema single screen box office already reached 100,000 as the admission rate was near 100%. The line even extended past the street. Viewers had to wait over a hour to be able to buy a ticket. No wonder some fans posted on facebook, "It was even more ridiculous than going on Disneyland rides".

Currently at the 24th Tokyo International Film Festival, director Giddens Ko and leads Ko Chen-Tung and Michelle Chen heard the Hong Kong box office success and could not be more moved. Giddens Ko even expressed his exceptional excitement online. "Hong Kong and Macau scared me! I am online everyday in Tokyo and see the long lines outside cinemas everywhere. Taiwan's YOU fever seems to have reappear elsewhere, I am truly a little flattered. I must, must fly to Hong Kong again to thank everyone. You truly are very loyal!"

In addition, they attended a forum after the Tokyo Film Festival screening. Many Japanese viewers called Michelle Chen "kawaii" (cute). Michelle Chen even revealed that her next film will start production at
the end of the year but the details had to be kept confidential for now. She also said that she would like to try characters that she has not played before, like characters with personality split or character flaws.
She hoped to show everyone a different her. Speaking of Ko Chen-Tung's nude scene, Giddens Ko said that at home he would be dressed, but Ko Chen-Tung insisted on performing in the buff. Ko Chen-Tung explained, "Because I wanted to have a break through in my first film with nude scene, kiss scene and rain scene, I asked the director. This way the visuals would be more interesting." Giddens Ko joked that Japanese viewers accepted his film for two reasons: people of different cultures would laugh when they saw Ko Chen-Tung's rear but his rear "crossed all borders"; the second was true love had no border, as he shot the entire world's pursuit of love.

New Horror Film : Resident Evil - Retribution

TORONTO: Chinese actress Li Bing Bing will join the cast of the upcoming Hollywood sci-fi horror film "Resident Evil: Retribution", the fifth installment in the "Resident Evil" film series.

Hollywood actress Milla Jovovich, who plays the lead character Alice in "Resident Evil: Retribution", announced via Twitter on Tuesday that Li will play the mysterious secret agent Ada Wong in the film.

"Resident Evil: Retribution", which is directed by Jovovich's husband Paul Anderson, is expected to be released in September next year.

The "Resident Evil" films were inspired by a popular survival-horror video game series of the same name, that pits players against zombies, mutant dogs and various other abominations.

The films feature many characters from the games though their storylines differ quite significantly from that of the games.

"Resident Evil: Afterlife",the latest film in the series, grossed a whopping US$300 million (S$383 million) worldwide.

Jay Chou and Hannah Quinlivan married ?

Recently, the Taiwanese media reported that singer Jay Chou married his girlfriend Hannah Quinlivan in Europe, and that the pair had went to Japan for their honeymoon.

At an event yesterday, Jay denied the marriage rumour and expressed that if he were to get married, he will not travel overseas to register for the marriage.

The multi-hyphenate also stated that he will issue an official statement to let everyone know about the joyous news.

When he was probed on the matter again, Jay called the reports untrue and did not wish to further comment on it because he felt stupid doing so.

The 32-year-old once indicated that he hopes to marry at the age of 35. He let on that his plans have not changed, so he will only marry two years later. The singer added that he hopes to have children after his marriage.

When asked if he has anyone in mind now, Jay hesitated before replying, "I'll let you know after I think about it."

Yesterday, a netizen claimed that he was shopping at Shibuya, Japan when he met Jay, Hannah and the singer's mother. He also provided a photo of Hannah outside the Disney store in Shibuya.

To that, Hannah's management agency commented, "We will not respond to our artiste's personal life."

New film : Sleepwalker 3D (Mung Yau 3D)

The Oxide Pang Shun directed film SLEEPWALKER 3D (MUNG YAU 3D) two days ago held a world premiere at the 24th Tokyo International Film Festival. He led actors Angelica Lee Sinjie, Charlie Yeung Choi Nei, and Huo Siyan in attendance. They enjoyed the film with the media and the Japanese aduience and answered audience questions. Pang Shun even shared his dream. He revealed himself to be a toy fan. In one scene Lee Sinjie threw away a robot toy, which was from his personal collection. He joked, "I believe in real life, Sinjie would very gladly reenact this scene." Sinjie cracked up next to him.

Mainland star Li Zhonghan was asked about working with Sinjie, Huo Siyan and Charlie Yeung Choi Nei. He took the chance to express his love for Charlie. "Sinjie is the director's wife, I didn't dare to have imagine any exchange with her; I have known Siyan for many years. This time she plays a female police officer. I have never seen such a pretty police officer, but I treat her like a little sister; when Charlie disguised herself as a man, I already liked her very much. I have always had a crush on her." Li Zhonghan after the "expression" was so emotional that he was wiping away sweat with tissues. Charlie sweetly smiled in response.

Later when Charlie was asked whether she would accept Li Zhonghan, she said, "Am I silly! He is always saying that, he just like the story in THE LOVER (LEUNG JOOK)! (Is it the first time someone publicly
expresses his love for you?) It's not like that, you are always talking about that. (Every one of your "sisters" are married?) I still have (Valen Hsu) Hui Yu Wan, no matter what I am dragging her in."

Chinese Thai Pang Shun was very concerned about the flood in Thailand and about sheet metal figure. "I asked a worker to watch it over night and told him to leave with my 'collection' if something happens. Actually in the short run I won't go back to live, I can only pay attention to the disaster online!" Boss Daneil Lam Siu Ming came to celebrate Huo Siyan's birthday two days ago.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

New film : Saving General Yang

Raymond Lam Fung, Julian Cheung Chi Lam, William Chan Wai Ting, Mag Lam Yun Tung and Jade Kwan Sum Yin were among the performers at the Yan Oi charity show in Tseung Kwan O Television City. Lam Fung recently has been busy with the new film SAVING GENERAL YANG (JUNG LIT YEUNG GA JEUNG) in the Mainland. Due to the strong sand storms, he joked that his skin was smoothed out from sand.

Despite that, Lam Fung said that eveyrone had a lot of fun on the set. They set up a camp and cooked on location, but actually they asked their assistant to help. He, Wu Chun and others were only responsible for
ordering the dishes, but Wu Chun was responsible for making desserts. Lam Fung said that he ate everyday so he did not lose weight.

Chan Wai Lam revealed that he will work on a mob film, the details of which will be announced later. He said that he kept watching mob films in these few weeks to absorb acting. Did he join a gang in school? He
said that he has fought with such people. In Form four or five he saw younger students being recruited and helped, but finally the school punished him and he was a little angry.

20th Golden Rooster Hundred Flower Film Festival

Twins and Nicholas Tse Ting Fung two nights ago attended the 20th Golden Rooster Hundred Flower Film Festival Award in Hefei. Charlene Choi Cheuk Yin and Mainland star Bai Bing presented "Best Music Award" while Ting Fung presented "Best Actor".

When asked whether Twins wanted to be on the Golden Rooster Hundred Flower award stage, they said, "Of course! We would be happy with the nomination. This time we saw so many Hong Kong artists participating and we were very moved. Unfortunately favorite (Aaron) Kwok Fu Sing didn't win Best Actor." Two nights ago Twins on the red carpet were already very popular with the Mainland audience. Ah Sa was the happiest about seeing Hu Ge because they have not seen each other since working together on BUTTERFLY LOVER (LEUNG JOOK). Ah Sa was also happy about the reunion with Liu Xiaoqing.

After the awards, Twins and Ting Fung had a rare chance to run into each other and met at the hotel to celebrate. They will perform a concert and act respectively in Shanghai. Twins asked Ting Fung to attend their performance in Shanghai.

Golden Bell Awards held in taiwan

The Golden Bell Awards, held in Taiwan on Oct 21, proved to be a difficult night for model-turned-actress Sonia Sui.

Sonia might have been the most popular celebrity on the red carpet, but the media reported on her wardrobe malfunction -- where she accidentally revealed more than she should -- instead. The actress, who believed she would go home victorious, later lost the Best Actress award to fellow actress Tian Xin.

Before the night of the Golden Bell Awards, Sonia had said that she would cry, regardless of whether she won or not. The actress fought back tears and only cried during the post-party celebration.

The media were also waiting at Sonia's house. Before they could ask her anything, the actress asked, "Do you want to give me a hug?" before hugging a female reporter.

Sonia later spent the night packing her luggage for a trip to Tokyo, Japan to promote her new movie.

At 5am on Oct 22, the actress left a message for her fans on her Facebook.

"I'm sorry to disappoint you," she wrote. Sonia also apologised for her dejected tone when she was announcing the winner for the Best Actor award.

The actress who turned 31 on Oct 22, took a 7am flight to Tokyo, to attend the Tokyo Film Festival.

Throughout her flight, passengers and flight attendants cheered the actress on and wished her 'Happy birthday'.

"I'll definitely put on another good performance, so as to thank you all for your support," Sonia replied.

Sonia's boyfriend and actor Yao Yuan Hao also spoke to the media on Oct 22.

"Although Sonia didn't win this year, there'll always be another opportunity next year. We'll both get nominated [then]. You're the best, happy birthday," he said.

2011 Most Popular In Asia Award

In the evening of Oct 22, Hua Yu Satellite TV's Ten Most Popular Artistes In Asia Ceremony was held in Dalian. Asian idol artistes such as Yan Ya Lun, Zheng Yuan Chang, He Run Dong, Ji Jin-Hee, Kim Sun A, Han Chae Young and so on received the Ten Popular Artistes In Asia Award. On the other hand, Jerry Yan Cheng Xu, who hadn't made public appearances for long, as expected, received the 2011 Most Popular In Asia Award.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

New film : Tears of fallen city

Chrissie Chau Sau Na and Joe Chen Qiao-En yesterday attended a handheld video game press conference. Chen Qiao-En stated that it was the first time she saw Chrissie and admitted defeat as she was not as sexy.

When asked whether she would play video games with her boyfriend, she said that she did not have a boyfriend. She also pointed out that earlier she just represented her new film TEARS OF FALLEN CITY (KING SING JI LUEN) at the Golden Rooster Hundred Flower Film Festival. She said that the film had decent response.

She said, "This film will be released in the Mainland and Hong Kong on December 24."

Ip Man 3

Donnie Yen Chi Tan recently accepted a CNN program TALK ASIA interview and discussed his road to success, action film changes over the years and the possibility of IP MAN 3 with host Kristie Lu Stout. Chi Tan even admitted that his family was his pillar and motivation. The program will air in Hong Kong, Singapore and Taipei simultaneously.

Chi Tan since his first film at age 19 has made over 50 films. This 48 year old actor has already become one of the most prominent ace superstar in the Asian film industry, in particular his performance in IP MAN received rave reviews. Chi Tan analyzed the film's success. "Several decades ago when we watched Bruce Lee action films, they were focused on showing masculinity. Yet recently they tended to focus on gentle men who put family first. He was a very passive person, which I thought attracted many female viewers. This was also the reason that this film performed so ideally and exceeded past kung fu films." As for the possibility of IP MAN 3, Chi Tan said, "In the next two years I have to explore and thoroughly utilize every opportunity and try different characters to see how far I can go, then I may possibly consider making IP MAN 3!"

Chi Tan since age four has studied martial art with his mother, but currently he has not instructed his children. Yet when he saw his four year old son James' natural martial art talent he still could not hide his joy inside. He said, "James could punch and kick all day, I don't know where he learned it from. He never watches my movies, but he indeed has natural talent in this area. He can pretend to kick like he has been studying martial art since he was born." In order to spend more time with his family, Chi Tan decided not to make any movie for half a year. Only recently has he returned to work on movies and his schedule has already been jam packed. Chi Tan said, "I have to thank different directors and investors for giving me so many opportunities, but due to limited schedules I have to make sacrifices. Now my schedule has already been filled until the end of next year."

Chi Tan once was the action director or actor on many Hollywood films. He said that in Hollywood he coordinated the action then let the directors and photographers adjust camera positions, but this way was not too desirable. In Hong Kong, stunt coordinator would also serve as action director. He had complete control and could alone or with his team coordinate the action and put the cameras in where he thought the result would be the best. In addition, Chi Tan won Best Actor with THE LOST BLADESMAN (GUAN WONG CHEUNG) at the International Filmmaker Film Festival in Scotland.

20th China Golden Rooster Hundred Flower Film Festival

The 20th China Golden Rooster Hundred Flower Film Festival opens today in Hefei. As the festival image ambassador, Vicki Zhao Wei on the 18th afternoon appeared at a Hefei cinema for a Zhao Wei film exhibit opening ceremony. Zhao Wei revealed that after completing PAINTED SKIN 2 (WAT PEI 2) she will begin work on her debut as a director. She might star as well.

This year's film festival will have opening ceremony, new national film introduction and screening, Hong Kong and Taiwan special topic film exhibit and other activities. The 19th Chinese Golden Rooster Hundred Flower Best Actress Zhao Wei would appear twice, on the 18th for her film exhibit and on the 19th for the opening ceremony. She might perform the film festival theme song DREAMS COME TRUE.

From the nominations, this year's Golden Rooster Award competition would be fierce. Best Actress nominees included Golden Horse Best Actresses Xu Fan and Lu Liping, who have been nominated with AFTER SHOCK and CITY MONKEY respectively. Also nominated are THE PIANO IN A FACTORY's Qin Hailu, CLOSE TO ME's Yan Bingyan, MOTHER's Na Renhua, and SUI SUI QING MING's Qian Peiyi.

As for Best Actor, LOVE FOR LIFE's AIDS patient Aaron Kwok Fu Sing would compete with THE PIANO IN A FACTORY's Tokyo International Film Festival Best Actor and Shanghai International Film Festival Media Award Best Actor Wang Qianyuan and the Huabiao Award winning film SHEN ZHOU 11's Liu Zhibing, veteran actor Zhu Xu and others.

11th Global Chinese Music Awards

October 15 evening, the 11th Global Chinese Music Awards was held in Shanghai. Joey Yung, Raymond Lam, Guang Liang, Gillian Chung, Kenji Wu, Xu Song, Xue Zhi Qian, and more took to the stage to perform. Kenji Wu and Joey Yung won the Most Popular Male Singer and Most Popular Female Singer, A-Mei won Best Female Singer, Hong Kong group Twins in their tenth year took Best Media Recommendation Big Prize and Best Stage Performance Award. When being interviewed, Gillian spoke about the situation in their tenth year, saying, "Ah Sa and my thoughts have matured a lot. Until now, the communication between me and her is still the most regular." When speaking about if she has plans for a lightning wedding, she rudely said, "No, these artists having lightning weddings are not at my age, they are more aged celebrities."

Hong Kong group Twins have been around for 10 years, in one go taking Best Media Recommendation Big Prize and Best Stage Performance Award. As the representative to accept the award, Gillian said, the way Twins think since being around for 10 years has changed. "Ah Sa and I have matured a lot, our thinking has also matured a lot, the happiest is that, up until now, my communication with her is still the most regular." Rene Liu, Kelly Lin, Christine Fan, Sonija Kwok and other female celebrities all stepped into the wedding hall one after another. Talking about whether she has plans for a lightning wedding, she bluntly said, "No, these artists having lightning weddings are not at my age, they are slightly more aged celebrities." (TN: The word used, "ć—§", does not just mean 'old' in terms of age, but with a meaning of being bygone, former, dated.) The next moment, she noticed that her tongue slipped, changing what she said to, "slightly more mature celebrities." Ah Gil expressed that currently her love life follows fate with no intention to force it, "I will not conceal my marriage, if I marry I will definitely tell everyone."

News : Love Thy Neighbour

Love Thy Neighbour, the 20-episode drama series based on heartlanders of different nationalities residing on the same storey in a HDB block will be coming to an end next Monday (Oct 24).

During its run on MediaCorp's Channel 8 the past four weeks, much has been discussed about Love Thy Neighbour's scripted dialogue and representation of locals and foreigners. Despite the wide discussion on the drama, the show has been attracting a steady stream of viewers, even surpassing the one-million viewership mark on Oct 13.

According to Paul Chan, vice-president of MediaCorp Channel 8 Branding & Promotions, viewership rating for Love Thy Neighbour has already surpassed the 900,000 mark -- even before the series ends concludes on Monday. It joins the ranks of police drama series C.L.I.F, and A Tale of Two Cities starring Rui En and Joanne Peh, which are the other two dramas which have successfully attracted an average of more than 900,000 viewers during its run.

Thanks to a wide variety of drama genres this year, before the year concludes with two more shows -- The Oath and A Song to Remember -- 2011's dramas on Channel 8 have attracted an average of 870,000 viewers to date, which shows an increase in viewership, as compared to 2010's average of 859,000 viewers.

New film : SLEEPWALKER 3D (MUNG YAU 3D)

Director Oxide Pang Shun and Angelica Lee Sinjie's first film after marriage, SLEEPWALKER 3D (MUNG YAU 3D) was already their third collaboration. However this time was not about ghost but sleepwalking. Sinjie even thought that the shoot was very fun. In the film she discovered that when she woke up she was still wearing pajamas but in high heels and had mud on her hands. She suspected that she killed her missing former husband while sleepwalking.

Sinjie deeply believed that dream was a type of sixth sense or subconscious. She personally supported the latter more and thought that perhaps due to large life pressure people subconsciously hid deep inside. Thus they should properly face their fears. In the past Sinjie also kept dreaming because she accumulated too much. Once she even woke with tear marks on her face.

However she would rarely have the same dream and she never asked anyone to explain it. Some said that she should have sweet dreams now from the perfect marriage. She said, "After marriage I really haven't shed tears while dreaming, but Hubby says that I sometimes would talk in my sleep." Sinjie also pointed out that she might be too in character. After the shoot when she returned home to sleep she would see her character and perform it once more.

Sinjie this time worked with her good friend Charlie Yeung Choi Nei for the first time. They met over ten years ago when Charlie opened a studio. At the time Sinjie's manager asked her to shoot an image photo
for Sinjie. Later they started to talk over the phone. Sinjie said, "That should be the 'Girl Generation'. After the photos were shown to the film company boss I was immediately hired." However they did not have many scenes together and did not have enough fun.

Charlie suggested that they could work together next time or add another friend Gigi Leung Wing Kei to make a woman film. Speaking of Sinjie having both career and family, Charlie said that she wished Sinjie well from the heart and believed that Sinjie would be a good wife and mother. Meanwhile she was waiting for the right one, left it up to nature and would not deliberately force anything.

20th Golden Rooster Hundred Flower Film Festival

The 20th Golden Rooster Hundred Flower Film Festival Johnnie To Kei Fung exhibit opened today in Hefei. Almost 30 film workers from Hong Kong and several hundred fans attended the opening ceremony. ALL ABOUT AH LONG (AH LONG DIK GOO SI) was this exhibit's opening film. After 22 years, viewers' passion remained.

Reportedly, this exhibit mainly selected three films from the end of the 80s to the early 21st century. They were ALL ABOUT AH LONG, NEEDING YOU (GOO NAM GUA NUI) and PTU. To Kei Fung due to work could not attend. "However his thinking and pursuit are all absorbed into his films. Viewers can through his films experience his thinking and ideas." China Film Association chair Li Qiankuan said. Li Qiankun stated at the opening ceremony that the Hong Kong Film Festival has taken place several times at the Golden Rooster Hundred Flower Film Festival already and provided an exchange platform for Mainland and Hong Kong film workers. This time the Golden Rooster Hundred Flower Hong Kong Film Exhibit promoted Hong Kong film with the To Kei Fung special feature.

In addition, at the opening ceremony, the organizer presented commemorative cups to the film representatives. Li Qiankuan said that Hong Kong film exhibit will remain a part of future Golden Rooster Hundred Flower Film Festivals. He hoped to promote cooperation and exchange between Mainland Hong Kong film workers through it.

New Song : Half Dead (死去活來)

The other night, Chilam Cheung attended an event and reveals he has lost his voice from recording his new song. He said: "I spent 3 days recording the song, the record producer wanted everything overly perfect. I lost all my self-confidence because he felt I didn't do well on anything. I was just like the song name Half Dead (死去活來)."

There is hope on settling the royalty dispute between TVB and Big 4, Chilam was asked if he's worried the competition at this year's annual music awards will get too competitive? Chilam said it doesn't matter because he doesn't really care about the awards. Asked if he feels TVB really helped him? He sweet talked: "TVB helped me a lot because I shoot series and sing." However, he personally supports freelance singers because they can appear on any media outlet.

New Drama : The Ambitious Policewoman

TVB FaDan and Siu Sangs are gradually going up north (Mainland) to develop their careers, which leaves TVB in a bad situation. TVB is starting their plan to seek external assistance in order to fix the situation. In November, producer Nelson Cheung will be starting a new series The Ambitious Policewoman (TAP) (tentative). Initially, the idea was to pair Anita Yuen and Michael Tse up and they can lead the next generation of FaDans, Siu Sangs and the new blood. However, due to Anita's schedule conflicts, TVB invited Niki Chow to replace her role. Anita's policewoman role was tailored for her, but will now have to undergo great changes to fit Niki's character.

Producer Nelson Cheung said The Ambitious Policewoman is actually the police version of TVB's 2010 series Beauty Knows No Pain. The series explores how a policewoman views different perspectives and experiences of modern women in today's society.

Nelson strongly invited Anita to participate in TAP, but despite Anita's interest for the role, ultimately she was unable to make time in her schedule. Niki Chow will replace her as the female lead. Nelson said Anita and Niki's styles are completely different, so when Niki accepts the series, the script will have to go through great changes and tailor the role for Niki. As for male lead, Michael Tse, he will be busy shooting new film Laughing Gor: Potential Criminal, which means he has a tight schedule, but his chances to shoot TAP is high. When the time comes, it will sure be a difficult period for him.

Nelson said TAP is a comedy that will incorporate issues of modern women in the workforce and their lifestyles through police cases. Niki has the 'audience fate' and gives off a refreshing feeling in her appearance on TV, therefore she is qualified for the role. As far as Niki's concern, this is her first time portraying a policewoman, a stylish and cool policewoman. Her pairing with Michael Tse will be a refreshing one. Niki rises to the 'Ah Jeh' level, where she will be responsible to lead her subordinates William Chak and Matthew Ko. Their roles will also have great room for development, they are 'the second tier', hoping to leave a deep impression on audience.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Upcoming Laughing Gor : Turning Point Extreme

May Fung Mei Kei and Margie Tsang Wa Sin's program taped yesterday in Happy Valley. This episode's guests included Michael Tse Tin Wa. Coincidentally Sister May was responsible for both Tsang Wa Sin and Laughing's first TVB contract. They have known each other for years. Laughing will work on the LIVES OF OMISSION (CHIM HUNG JUI GIK) film version TURNING POINT EXTREME (CHIM JUI FAN). Earlier he posted a poster online, but yesterday he said that the poster was not real. The film however indeed will have Lam Suet, Wai Ying Hung, Lau Siu Ming and Francis Ng Chun Yu. Some claimed that "Counterfeit Fala Chen" Rebecca Zhu will play Laughing Soh in replace of Fala Chen. He said that earlier during costume fitting he did not see her. He believed that many characters have not been decided and were very mysterious.

Who would he like to be the lead actress? He joked that how could he be in charge, the film team will decide. He joked that he did not understand why the female lead had to die every time. He hoped that this time she would not. How did he see Laughing's death? He admitted that he did not want the character to be too worn out, he should stop while he was ahead. He also did not want the audience to get tired, ultimately he could not go on forever and it had to come to an end.

Alan Tam 61st birthday

On Aug 23, Hong Kong singer Alan Tam celebrated his 61st birthday. Then, it was reported that he was using the banquet to introduce his long-time 'confidante' Wendy and his son Tam Hiu Fung, as part of the family.

However, the report claimed that the birthday banquet was actually a belated wedding banquet instead. Alan's legal wife Sally Yeung decided to reclaim her title as Mrs Tam, by taking an interest in her family matters, because she did not want any misunderstanding that it was a wedding banquet, due to the number of celebrities who were at the banquet that night.

According to an insider, Sally had never asked about Alan's love life and was only in charge of his finances. She would also prepare a cheque for Wendy monthly. The rest of her free time was spent on praying and doing charity work.

It is said that Sally had begun to take control of Alan's finances and had even kept track of the singer's whereabouts. She even used Alan's mother to force her husband into submission.

Wendy might have come between Alan and Sally's relationship, but Alan still respected his wife, because she held control over his assets.

The insider continued, "Wendy thought Sally would allow Alan to marry her, now that her son's already grown up and that they've been together for many years. She was wrong. [Alan's mother] felt that the first wife should have the final say, and would not allow the two women to quarrel. It's not easy for Wendy to wed Alan, as long as his mother is still alive."

Hebe tien second solo album

S.H.E. member Hebe Tien held an autograph session to celebrate the successful release of her second solo album yesterday.

During the autograph session, the rising starlet also announced that she will be holding a large-scale concert entitled To My Love for up to 3,000 fans this coming December in Taiwan. The concert marks Hebe's first and biggest concert in her solo career.

When asked if she would invite fellow band mate Selina Jen as her guest performer for the concert, the singer expressed that she would ask Selina about it but she would only appear if her health allows it.

"I will ask her but I won't pressure her (to attend)," said Hebe.

With Selina due to tie the knot on October 31, Hebe was also asked about the bride's wedding preparations.

"There's a professional wedding planner in charge and everything should be proceeding well. Selina shared her feelings on her impending wedding with me but that's our 'sisters-talk'. It's not convenient for me to talk about it."

In response to earlier claims that she had clashed with Selina's fiancé Richard, Hebe said, "I won't be answering questions on these unfounded allegations, but if you (the media) want to continue with these speculations, I can't be bothered about it."

New taiwan hit : You are the apple of my eye

The new Taiwan hit YOU ARE THE APPLE OF MY EYE's director Giddens Ko, producer Angie Chai, actors Ko Chen-Tung and Michelle Chen yesterday arrived in Hong Kong for a three day promotion. Earlier with his personal life exposed online Ko Chen-Tung yesterday deliberately wore sunglasses and kept his distance from the media. However over 20 Ko Chen-Tung fans still waited for him at the gate. The film company also arranged for many security guards to protect him. On the way to the parking lot Ko Chen-Tung signed autographs for fans.

On the other hand, Michelle Chen stepped out of the gate and immediately waved to the media. She walked toward waiting fans, signed autographs and posed for pictures with them.

Michelle Chen said that this time in Hong Kong she will not have much time to go out. She said, "I haven't been to Hong Kong in a long time. Last time was already two years ago when I promoted the film HEAR ME. This time I hoped to have a chance to go out. The most exciting of course will be the moment of the premiere." Michelle Chen received a Golden Horse Award Best Actress nomination this year. She happily said, "This movie is very popular, I am very honored to be nominated. This is quite a surprise."

New film : Woman Knight Of the Mirror Lake

The Mainland actress Huang Yi took her new film WOMAN KNIGHT OF THE MIRROR LAKE to Shanghai Fudan University for a screening. The three teachers and students responded enthusiastically. Students surrounded Huang Yi for autographs. She said that being from Shanghai, this event was very important to her as she wanted to know young students' opinions of the film.

Many students spoke up at the event and Huang Yi responded with humor one by one. When asked about her view on marriage, she also responded and stated that she suggested her divorce first.

Huang Yi said, "I feel woman should have the right to choose marriage. When a woman feels marriage is no longer suitable for her, she should suggest separation. I want to say, I suggested the divorce first." Huang Yi encouraged students to face the inequalities between the sexes in society and continue to work hard.

“The Fierce Wife” ready to screen

Following the success at the Golden Bell with 13 nominations, the crew of TV drama “The Fierce Wife” is now ready to bring the drama to the big screen. It is said that Producer Pei-Hua Wang has invited Jerry Yan to team up with Sonia Sui . She confirmed yesterday she had a very promising conversation with Jerry Yan and is looking forward to work with proficient actor like Jerry. However, there is not a detailed plan yet . Jerry’s agency commented that the plan is possible if Jerry’s schedule permits.

Jerry Yan has been pursued by many movie production teams. Director Zero Chou is planning to team up Jerry Yan with Michelle Chen and Ivy Chen in her latest movie “Scarlet”. Jerry Yan has been waiting for a movie that can advance himself to the next level of film art as his returning debut. “Scarlet” will provide him the opportunity to get out of his familiar role of a handsome heartthrob by portraying a chivalrous pirate who encountered two geishas in an ancient setting. It is said that Jerry Yan will start martial and training prior to the start of the filming this fall. The shooting locations will be in Kinmen and Matsu. A pirate ship film set will be built in the budget of TWD100 million.

Pei-Hua Wang has kept the new movie project “The Fierce Wife” under a tight cover. She has confirmed that the initial draft is finished and the pre production phase is almost complete. She regards Jerry as a successful proficient actor. She is looking forward to work with Jerry and creating new role for him. According to Jerry’s agency, his schedule is full until early next year. “The Fierce Wife” is a very good project that Jerry would like to work on if his schedules permits.

Upcoming concert Korean girl group Wonder Girls

Korean girl group Wonder Girls will return home from the U.S. this weekend to prepare for a much-awaited performance. The band recently wrapped up shooting the made-for-TV film "Wonder Girls at the Apollo," which is slated to air next year.

An official at their agency JYP Entertainment said, "The Wonder Girls have been very busy with various commitments including the TV film. If everything goes as planned, they will arrive in Korea this weekend to get ready to meet their Korean fans again."

Competition in the local K-pop scene looks set to become heated next month as Girls' Generation, Orange Caramel and T-ara are also planning to promote their new albums.

Joey Yung Cho Yi new film

For an acting break through, music industry diva Joey Yung Cho Yi is willing to make the sacrifice for art and appear half naked in her new film. In an awkward relationship with Hu Ge in the film, Joey will receive a massage from him. Joey even turned down eight figures in jobs for "peace and quiet" so she would be able to go further in the film industry.

Joey's film characters have been few but memorable, like the CRAZY N THE CITY (SUN GAING HUP NUI)'s silly police officer and DEMI HAUNTED (WON PAK NG CHAI)'s androgynous woman. For even more break through on the silver screen, Emperor Motion Pictures tailored the new film DIVA for Joey. Yanyan Mak Hei Yan will direct. Although Joey played a diva, the film will not be easy for her at all. Joey in the new film will have to be half naked as lead actor Hu Ge will give her a massage. To diva Joey this might be an extreme challenge. Joey said, "Although the production hasn't started yet, I am already very nervous. Mentally I really have to put in an effort to prepare. Actually Hu Ge has more to prepare for than I do. He went to learn massage and told me to relax."

Was the film salary so attractive that she was willing to turn down eight figures in jobs? Joey joked, "I have always been more about the heart than the gold." Joey even "boasted" that she would deliberately lose weight for the film. "I have always been very fit, as a singer I ultimately don't want to be fat."

DIVA has already started production days ago. Producer and actor Chapman To Man Jat often posted production progress online. Co-star included Bonnie Xian (Sin Sik Lai); in the photo Hu Ge was full of confidence. Although this was his first collaboration with Joey, they got along very quickly.

TVB new series : Forensic Heroes III

TVB new series Forensic Heroes III premiered last night. The average premiere rating was 34 points and peaked at 35 points. For now, FH3 is the leader of the highest rated premiere in 2011. TVB is holding a celebration today to boost the momentum.

Lead actor Wayne Lai learned of FH3's high premiere rating and felt very happy. He believes the ratings will continue to rise, and may have a chance to reach 37 points on average. Wayne expressed if the average rating is 35 points, he will treat everyone for a meal. Earlier Wayne only had 50% confidence to get TV King depending on FH3. Asked if he has 90% confidence now? Wayne laughed: "Nope! About 80% confidence."

FH3 producer Miu Siu Ching said she felt surprised that FH3 is this year's leader of highest premiere rating. She had confidence for the series to lead with a "3" (30+ PTS), but didn't expect it to reach that hight of 35 points. She felt it's amazing and thanked audience for all the support. Miu Siu Ching is the producer for the Forensic Heroes trilogy and expressed FH3 is the highest rated among the three. Compared to the production a few years ago, this time the series was able to incorporate high tech equipment. She said Kate Tsui used real Kung Fu to do her fighting scenes and didn't use a stunts double. Earlier it was rumored she and her husband (Producer Lau Ka Ho) were planning to leave TVB to develop in China? She expressed she is currently busy with Prosperous Father and will focus on completing the production before considering other matters.

New film : LIFE WITHOUT PRINCIPLE (DUET MING GUM)

Johnnie To Kei Fung's film LIFE WITHOUT PRINCIPLE (DUET MING GUM) earlier held an advanced screening. The response was overwhelming as the cinema was sold out. Although the director did not appear at the cinema, after the screening the audience applauded for three minutes. It was rare for a Hong Kong screening.

To Kei Fung humbly said that everyone gave "too much face" when he learned about the audience reaction, but he personally liked this film very much as well. In addition he thought that the film displayed the Hong Kong economic bubble 100% as a complete satire. He hoped that this film would be a big hit in Hong Kong. As the audience's praise of Lau Ching Wan's acting, many who have seen the film thought that he absolutely had the potential to win Best Actor. Ching Wan said that he did not think too much about Best Actor. Instead when To Sir asked him to perform he would coordinate fully. At first when he took this film he only knew that he would play a mob figure. To Sir's movies often took a long time to make, thus he worried about his shape the most instead. He was afraid that he would get fatter and lose continuity during the shoot.