[TAKE OVER] HKSAR Film Top 10 Box Office (September 10, 1997)

[Wolverine]

[FLUFF OF THE WEEK] Courtesy of Ming Pao, Sing Tao Daily, Apple Daily, and
Ta Kung Pao

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2. Stanley Tong Kwai Lai first film in the West raises minor turbulence

Stanley Tong Kwai Lai's directorial debut in the West Mr. Magoo hasn't
hit the theaters yet, but it has been plagued a minor problem. The American
Association for the Blind felt the lead character is derogatory to the blind,
but Tong Kwai Lai said they are being over sensitive.
Tong Kwai Lai currently is in the U.S. working on post production for
the film. He expressed there were reports that the British Association for
the Blind was upset. In actuality it was, it was the American Association
for the Blind, but he stressed the character in the film isn't blind but
really near sighted. The association's action before further understanding
showed it was being over sensitive. Toward the association's announcement
that if the proceeds from the film is donated then there will be no problems,
he has no comment. As for why the character has this vision problem, he
explained that it signifies a meaning of life. Due to the lead character's
vision problems everything is perfect in his eyes. Because of that, he
would raise up a defense, and even the bad guys wouldn't harm him.
Tong Kwai Lai said the film will first be released in America and
Europe around Christmas then in Southeast Asia. Right now he is busy
editing. Because the previous editor couldn't accomplish the task, the
company has hired four to take his place at the same time. He joked he is
like a "popular escort", having to run between several editing room
everyday. For his next film, there is a Hollywood company which approached
him with Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh (Yeung Chi King) films. He has
seen the script for the latter but has yet decided whether to take the job
or not and also has to see Yeung Chi King's schedule. As for Jackie, a
week ago they talked over the phone. "Big Brother" hoped he can go to
Holland to shoot the trailer for Who Am I. If time allows he would give
"Big Brother" a hand.

3. Dior Cheng Yi Kin anticipates no pressure working with Maggie Cheung Man
Yuk

Wong Jing earlier revealed he is interested in investing 30 million in
November on the production of a modern version of the Louis Cha (Gum Yung)
classic The Giant Eagle and Its Companion (Sun Diu Hup Lui) titled Chiu Si
Hung Sun Diu (Beyond Time Space Holy Condor), which will star Dior Cheng Yi
Kin and Maggie Cheung Man Yuk as Yeung Gor and Siu Lung Nui respectively.
On the 11th Yi Mein said, "Actually this film has been planed for a
long time, but because they couldn't confirm the lead actress will be Maggie,
the company didn't announce the film publicly."
Years ago Yi Mein has worked with Cheung Man Yuk on Boys Are Easy (Jui
Nam Jai), but they didn't have any scenes together. Does Yi Mein feel any
pressure working with the talented Best Actress award winner?
Yi Mein said, "I have always been pretty 'loose'. There is no
pressure, but in the past the actresses I have worked with a new comers,
like (Gigi) Leung Wing Kei, (Sammi) Cheng Sau Man and (Kristy) Yeung Kung
Yu. It is indeed a hard to come by chance to work with Maggie." He hoped
working with the veteran this time there will be new chemical reactions. On
top of that, because the director is his old partner Andrew Lau Wai Keung,
so he is a little more confident.
Maggie appears to be silent and cold and was rumored to not getting
along with Leon Lai Ming when they worked together. Yi Mein said that
wouldn't affect him much, "Normally I like to play, but I meet quiet people
like Maggie. There is an advantage -- before getting in position I can
concentrate on getting in character."

4. Donnie Yen Chi Tan is wanted by the police

Because he was suspected to be involved in a fight in the early
morning hours of the 9th in Tsimshatsui, Donnie Yen Chi Tan, wanted by the
police, suddenly appeared on the afternoon of the 10th at Regent Hotel and
stressed he had nothing to do with the reported blood bath.
The fight took place at 3:00 AM of the 9th, outside a Tsimshatsui
karaoke place. Reportedly, at the time Yen Chi Tan, his girlfriend Man Yi
Man, and a group of friends was about to leave, someone requested to have
his photo taken with Man Yi Man. Yen Chi Tan, in a hurry to protect his
girlfriend, took on another gang in a street fight. When the police arrived
12 people involved were taken away and four injured men were arrested. Among
them a 19 year old Mr. Chiu expressed with blood gushing out of his head
expressed he has fought with Yen Chi Tan. Because he was no match for him,
he is seriously injured and must be hospitalized.
Because the police could not get in contact with Yen Chi Tan and Man
Yi Man, at 11PM of the 9th the police issued an internal warrant for the
couple. Yen and Man suddenly became the entertainment circle's Most Wanted.
17 hours after the warrant was issued, reporters finally received Yen Chi
Tan's response outside the Regent. Yen spiritedly stepped into the hotel
to meet with his new film Ballistic Kiss's Japanese musical director.
Yen Chi Tan admitted he indeed did appeared at the karaoke with Man
Yi Man and crew members of his new film, but stressed he wasn't involved
in the fight.
Yen said, "That night was one of my crew member's birthday, so we
went to celebrate. Ah Man and I left first, I only found out about the
fight later."
"Ah Man and I are both celebrities, why would I do such a thing! I
don't understand why it was rumored that way. I too wanted to understand
what happened, but I believe there are more injured crew members than this."
As for the warrant, Yen Chi Tan said after his meeting with the
musician, he would immediately head to the police station with his lawyer.
He said, "Perhaps because I lost my cell phone, no one can find me."
"I am not hiding. I have notified my lawyer about the entire matter,
later I will go to the police!"
"The reporters were made up, being wanted and assisting in
investigation is two different matters. Later when I find out more, I
will give a clear explanation to the media!"
When asked about how they are, Yen Chi Tan right now moved around,
"Relax! There is nothing wrong with Ah Man or me. This happened on the
night before, last night Ah Man and I went to a banquet in Repulse Bay,
proving there is nothing wrong with me!"

Yen Chi Tan divorced in 96 reportedly due to Man Yi Man
Yen Chi Tan has always been known for his martial art. When he was 2
he immigrated to the U.S. from China. At the age of 7 he began training
with his mother who established a Chinese martial art school in Boston. In
82 he won the American Wuxia championship and belongs to the same school
as Jet Li (Lee Nin Kit).
Yen Chi Tan joined the entertainment business with the movie Drunken
Tai Chi (Siu Tai Gik). His portrayal of Bruce Lee has left a deep
impression with the public. Currently he also is an honorary chair of the
Bruce Lee Fan Club.
Having been in the business for 15 years, Yen Chi Tan has always been
involved in gossip. In the beginning of 96 he and his wife divorced,
reportedly due to the involvement of the third party Man Yi Man. At the
time his wife who was separated from him filed for divorce through her
lawyer siting Yen Chi Tan committed adultery. At one time even the police
were involved, as Yen Chi Tan reportedly used force against his wife.
The friendship between Yen Chi Tan and Man Yi Man began when the pair
worked together on ATV series New Fist of Fury (Sun Jing Mo Moon).

5. Leon Lai Ming hopes to be nominated for the Best Actor award

On the night of the 11th, the premiere of Eighteen Springs (Boon Sun
Yuen) took place at the Wanchai Exhibition Center. Leslie Cheung Kwok Wing
was invited by the boss Raymond Wong Pak Ming to attend the show. Leon Lai
Ming then arrived at the premiere. Toward the sudden appearance of Leslie
Cheung Kwok Wing, he expressed he wasn't surprised because he knew Raymond
Wong Pak Ming invited "Gor Gor" to attend. He was happy that more friends
in the business could attend, at least they could give his their opinion.
Lai Ming said this film is the complete show of skill for the director Ann
Hui On Wa, so there is no commercial factor.
Some pointed out without commercial factor the film will be a great
chance for Lai Ming to win an award, since last time with Comrade, Almost a
Love Story (Tim Mut Mut), some said he only lost by a narrow margin. Lai
Ming expressed being picked as the favorite is the greatest encouragement.
He stressed if he is nominated and winns awards then of course he will be
happy, as he too hopes to become a Best Actor award winner with this film.
He humbly said, "I am very happy to have worked with director Hui On Wa.
This film is my favorite, different from the films I have made previously.
I learned alot from the experience and hopes more people can give me their
opinions about it. As for winning awards that's hard to say. I would like
to thank everyone for encouraging me."
As for the next half of the year, Lai Ming temporarily wouldn't accept
another film offer, as he would like to concentrate on preparations for his
December concert series. He wouldn't want to cheat the concert goers
due to his fatigue from making movies. In the future he plans to make at
least one film a year, but not as hectic as this year's schedule making
Killing Me Tenderly (Oi Nei Oi Doe Sat Sei Nei), God of Gamblers 3 -- The
Early Stage (Siu Nin Doe Sun) and Eighteen Springs all in one breath. He
has a few film deals in negotiation, the soonest to begin production will
be Johnnie To Kei Fung's Sat Sau Goo Si (Killer Story) which will star Lau
Ching Wan and begin shooting next year.
Other attending guests included Sandra Ng Kwan Yu, Jade Leung Jung,
and Stanley Kwan Kam Peng. One of the lead actresses, Wu Chien Lien (Ng
Sin Lin) also returned to Hong Kong to help with the promotion of the film.
She then quickly returned to Beijing to continue shooting TV series Gaing
Gong Oi Ching Sin (Lit: (Bei)Jing (Hong) Kong Love Line).
The film's director Ann Hui On Wa said after this film, she will rest
for a few weeks. Then in the beginning of October, she will head to England
to discuss her next film. However the film isn't a Westernized film, and
the film's background like its characters would be more Chinese. The genre
is even right up Ann's alley -- a metropolitan romance. However, Ann said
for now nothing is solid and there are plenty to be negotiated. She too
hoped she would have the opportunity to make this movie.

6. Raymond Wong Pak Ming's sincerity moves Leslie Cheung Kwok Wing into a
Lunar New Year film

Friendship can really turn Leslie Cheung Kwok Wing around. Originally
Gor Gor has decided that before the end of the year he would only do the Yim
Ho directed Cup Di Fei Dik Shun (Lit: A Letter for Princess Di) but in the
end he couldn't overcome his buddy Raymond Wong Pak Ming's sincere
invitation and has orally agreed to work on the Lunar New Year film 98 All's
Well Ends Well Too (98 Fa Din Hei Si).
"We are such old friends, and Pak Ming asked with such sincerity, I
gave in and took another role! As long as the script is good then that's
fine! (Would it be a cameo?) No! I wouldn't be a cameo star! Basically
I have already made an oral agreement with Pak Ming!"
"(Are you the one who have made the most Lunar New Year movies?) I
think if it isn't me than it's Jackie Chan! This is my eighth year in a
Lunar New Year movie!"
Also, after Gor Gor's calculation, the guests of his birthday party
have given a total of 180,000 which will then be donated to the Children
Cancer Fund.

7. Jade Leung Jung signs with another manager

Jade Leung Jung attended the premiere of Eighteen Springs with Annie
Wu (Ng Sun Kwan). Recently they have become coworkers.
Leung Jung expressed when her contract was up with Golden Harvest and
Media Asia earlier, she felt that because they have many artists and care
would be thin and would seek another manager. She has always noticed Ng
Sun Kwan from Taiwan and felt her manager has established her image very
successfully. Later she discovered her manager is a woman, which is even
better because it is easier to communicate between women. Thus they have
signed a two year contract. Earlier her new manager accompanied her to
promote her Taiwan series Gong Wu Kei Hup Juen.
As for work, Leung Jung expressed later she will be in an action film
which will co star Yu Rong Guong and Roy Cheung Yiu Yeung and be shot in
Hong Kong and China.

8. Snow Wolf Lake still lacks a female lead

Snow Wolf Lake from the 21st to the 27th of November will begin its
run in Singapore. Chan Suk Fun said there will be 140 people who will head
to Singapore to perform, as for the sets and props over 10 trailers weighing
a total of 150 tons will be shipped over.
Although work has already begun, the female lead Ah Shuet has yet to
be cast. Reportedly due to Nadia Chan Chung Ling's price tag she will be
cast, but then it was also reported that Jacky Cheung Hok Yau disagreed.
Chan Suk Fun replied the role still is empty. She admitted currently
there are 7 or 8 well known artists who have expressed interest through
their record companies or management agencies. On top of that, there are
new comers in training, but they still haven't decided on who will play the
role.
When askd if Chan Chung Ling is in the running for the role, Chan Suk
Fun said she couldn't reveal any names of the participants because of their
support toward Snow Wolf Lake. In the future when one of them is chosen
that doesn't mean that the other pop stars and artists didn't do a good job.
Mainly they are choosing an appropriate person.
Chan Suk Fun said she never heard and wouldn't believe Cheung Hok Yau
would deny Chan Chung Ling the role. As for Chan Chung Ling, she had no
comment but she really admired Snow Wolf Lake's sincere production.

9. Jan Lamb Hoi Fung is framed

Jan Lamb Hoi Fung and Cass Phang (Peng Ling) are a couple that even a
hurricane couldn't break up, otherwise her nickname wouldn't be "Ga So"
(daughter-in-law)!
No one would expect that for his new film Lamb Hoi Fung would have to
sell himself and ask "Ga So" to move over, as he ran into the arms of young
lady who is a cross between Joey Wong Cho Yin and Kristy Yeung Kung Yu Cathy
Tsui Chi Kei and made up gossip to at least give a name to match this fresh
face.
On the 13th the Yip Wai Shun directed film Ng Yun Ji Dai (Lit: Leading
Other's Children down the wrong path) allowed the press to visit its set to
introduce the two new comers Tsui Chi Kei and the "counterfeit Gigi Leung
Wing Kei" Bobo Leung Bo Yin. During the visit someone leaked that Lamb Hoi
Fung is interested in the pretty Kei Kei.
When asked to confirm, Lam Hoi Fung denied it and asked who told.
Mrs. Charles Heung Wa Keung walked by and said, "Yeah! Yeah! We saw them
going out."
Lam Hoi Fung could only laugh bitterly, "Thank you! Thank you! Mrs.
Heung really knows how to joke around."
He expressed he never asked Kei Kei to go out with him. Because she
is a new actress, unfamiliar with the environment and difficult to get into
the role, so he constantly joked around to lighten the mood; the other new
comer Leung Bo Yin has less scenes and he only have saw her two or three
times.
He said, "Kei Kei has a strict family. Her parents are with her on
the set. I see she has such a nice smile, I just call her by that nickname."
When asked if Lam Hoi Fung asked her out, Kei Kei said, "Sure! He
said let's go out, I said sure, but Peng Ling has to come along. He couldn't
stop laughing after that."
As the film's producer, Vincent Kok Tak Siu personally searched
appropriate casting since the film began its planning stages. During the
period he has interviewed over 100 young ladies, luckily he finally ran
into Tsui Chi Kei and Leung Bo Yin.
The film is a youth school comedy, but from the mouths of Kok Tak Siu
it becomes a silly nonsensical comedy. Certain scenes and dialogues
might seem ordinary to the outsiders, but to him they are interesting and
real. He believes this film will be different from the other school movies
and will surprise the audience.
As for new plans, Kok Tak Siu revealed he would like to make an action
comedy. Since the Hand over no one has made a film about the Special
Administrative Region police, so he currently is preparing a script for one.
Cast wise, Mr. Heung will be responsible.
Also, Sat Sau Ji Wong (Lit: Killer Wong)'s production has been very
mysteriously. However Kok Tak Siu felt having Eric Tsang Chi Wai as a
killer to match Jet Li (Lee Nin Kit) will definitely create new sparks.

10. Stephen Fung Tak Lun to play a gigolo in his new film

Stephen Fung Tak Lun will play a gigolo in his new film Chung Nam
Wan (Central South Bay). He will have an bed scene in which he is raped by
a man.
Although Stephen is a new idol on the music scene, he didn't resist
bed scenes in order to maintain his pop star image. He would sacrifice for
the art and performing in boxer shorts, quite the professional. Reportedly
Stephen's partner will be man as he would be raped by him.
Supposedly this rape scene will star either Michael Tse Tin Wa or Ken
Wong Hup Hei, or perhaps a Japanese or Taiwan actor.
First time in the lead, Stephen already faced such a great challenge.
On the 13th he said he is absolutely confident about producer Sylvia Chang
(Cheung Nga Ga) and director Yeung Fan. "I really admire them. I understand
the plot needs the scene, so I would rather accept this challenge. When I
accepted the script, I knew I wanted to do my best. So I wouldn't stop half
way because of my pop star image."
Fung Tak Lun said he would prepare psychologically before the scene.
"I hope to first communicate with my costar. That will help us getting
into our roles more. Unfortunately I still don't know who will be in the
other role."

11. Mak Dong Kit takes over for Clarence Ford (Fok Yiu Leung) and directs
Ching Yi

The Andy Lau Tak Wa starred Ching Yi (Lit: Love Loyalty) earlier
ran into a little turbulence as the director was changed without any
explanation. According to sources in Taiwan, Ching has returned to
production with Mak Dong Kit taking over the director's chair originally
occupied by Clarence Ford (Fok Yiu Leung). Producer Mak Dong Hung even
revealed for the first time that the film was made intermittently and made
Ching seriously over budget, which possibly is the reason for the directorial
change.
Lau Tak Wa flew to Taiwan after the director problem subsided.
Director Mak Dong Kit already rented space from Taipei's Universal News
Station, as Wa Jai and Kwok Jing Shung appeared in full military gear.
Toward the directorial change, Wa Jai shook his head and refused to comment.
Producer Mak Dong Hung watched the completed 2/3 of the film and felt
satisfied, but due to the inexperience of the crew, the shooting took place
intermittently and led to a serious budget problem. "Because I didn't get
the rhythm early on, the problem appeared." After the problem occurred he
will stay in Taipei for two months to supervise the production completely.

12. Hup Doe Law Bun Hong breaks into an exchange of fire in Central

The Christine Ng Wing Mei, Ken Wong Hup Hei and Almen Wong Pui Ha
starred Hup Doe Law Bun Hong (Heroic Thief Robin Hood) turned Central upside
down on the 14th! Good and evil gangs of thieves fighting over an armored
truck opened fire in the middle of the street. With the guns going off,
the bystanders ran for cover.
Although it was only a movie, it was so realistic, the police hotline
received many calls about a gun fight in the city. When the officers
arrived to investigate, they found a huge amount of bullet shells on the
ground which led to panic. After investigating, although the production
company proved it has obtained a permit, someone was suspected to go
overboard and producer Ng Kin Hung later needed to assist the police further
with the investigation.
According to producer Ng Kin Hung, the fight scene at Central, with
Alfred Cheung Kin Ting, Francis Ng Chun Yu, Ng Wing Mei, Miriam Yeung Chin
Wa, Wong Pui Ha, Wong Hup Hei and Chinese Olympic swimmer Chong Wing, has a
permit and the shooting was to begin from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Besides
gunfire there would also be light explosions. The bullets used were blanks
and the shot went rather successfully.

13. Jackie Chan is not listed on the pale bearer list

Single-handedly trained by Master Yu Jim Yuen, Sammo Hung Kam Bo,
Yuen Wa, Yuen Biao, Yuen Tai and other members of the Seven Little Fortune
respectively arrived in Los Angeles for their teacher's funeral, but
Jackie Chan still has yet to appear. In fact, Jackie's name did not appear
on the pale bearer listing or the appreciation list, reportedly because no
one knew whether Jackie will attend the funeral.
Yuen Wa revealed the pale bearer list including Yuen Biao, Hung Kam Bo,
Yuen Tai, Yuen Wa, Fan Kwan Tung and three local students of Yu Jim Yuen.
Yuen Wa explained why Jackie wasn't on the list, "We already contacted him,
but he still didn't express whether he would come or not, so we couldn't
guarantee he will come. Of course, if he makes it here in time, we will
definitely ask him to be a pale bearer."
The funeral would be held at noon of the 15th (PDT), during which
Hung Kam Bo would speak on behalf of the family and students. After the
ceremony the remains would be sent to the cemetery for the burial.

14. Ann Hui On Wa keeps Anita Mui Yim Fong's Mandarin out of Eighteen Springs

The Ann Hui On Wa directed film Eighteen Springs, just released for
two days, already has reached the 1 million mark at the box office and won
the good word of mouth from many different sides. Unfortunately Anita Mui
Yim Fong's original voice isn't on film, as out of the entire cast only her
voice was dubbed over.
Originally during shooting Eighteen Springs the entire film was shot
in Mandarin dialogue and live sound recording. Leads like Leon Lai Ming
and Wu Chien Lien (Ng Sin Lin) used their own voice, only Mui Yim Fong's
voice was dubbed professionally. Those who have seen the film all wondered
why Ah Mui's original voice, with her fluent Mandarin, wasn't used, making
the film appeared somewhat out of sync.
On the 14th, director Ann Hui On Wa explained, "Actually many movies
are dubbed, but the market for Eighteen Springs isn't just limited to Hong
Kong, so the entire film is in Mandarin. Those in Beijing couldn't clearly
understand Ah Mui's Mandarin, and we couldn't find a voice actress who
sounds like Ah Mui." Ann also stressed, although Ah Mui's Beijing Mandarin
isn't too smooth, Ah Mui is a very good actress. "Ah Mui was very helpful,
and her acting was good. It is just she couldn't speak fluent Northern
Mandarin like Lai Ming and Ng Sin Lin."
Ann disagreed that the dubbed voice is the reason that Eighteen Springs
isn't perfect.

15. Yu So Chau appeared out of retirement to send her father on his way

Hong Kong Cantonese film period action star Yu So Chau (daughter of
Yu Jim Yuen) days ago rushed to Los Angeles from San Francisco for her
father's funeral.
The 67 year old Yu So Chau initially avoided the press. "I don't
want to do any interviews. I am afraid I am old and not pretty, plus I
have retired for 30 years already, I don't want to do any interview."
But in the end Yu So Chau still mentioned her late father's past.
"I was Papa's favorite. When I was little he already taught me kung fu.
He was very strict, every time there was a mistake he would hit
fiercely, but no talent comes without a beating."
"Although my children, 3 sons and 2 daughters, and I live in San
Francisco, I asked my son to drive me to Los Angeles to visit him every
Saturday, until later when he suffered from Alzheimer's disease and
couldn't realize anyone, then I visited him every week just to call him
'papa'."
"After papa's funeral, I will immediately fly back to San Francisco
because my children only took a few days off and they all have jobs to go
back to. I will place papa's plaque in San Francisco's Ching Chung Guoon
because there besides my birth mother's, my husband's (the late opera star
Mak Ping Wing) plaque is also there. This funeral cost around US$30,000,
all of which I paid for."

16. Jackie Chan arrives in Los Angeles for his teacher's funeral

International superstar Jackie Chan finally appeared in the last
minute for his master Yu Jim Yuen's funeral ceremonies. 10 minutes before
the ceremony's end, Jackie Chan, Willie Chan Chi Keung and others suddenly
appeared outside the funeral home.
After paying his respects Jackie expressed he was late because he was
shooting Who Am I in Holland and the Yu family and friends couldn't contact
him. Finally when he received the news he immediately flew from Holland.
"I am Master Yu's god son." Jackie said.
Jackie first lighted incense and bowed in front of Yu Jim Yuen's
altar, then he accompanied by the widow of Yu Jim Yuen took a final glimpse
of his master. With Sammo Hung Kam Bo and Yuen Biao he placed a silver box
by the remains of Yu Jim Yuen. Jackie Chan originally wanted to put the box
by Yu Jim Yuen's hand. Perhaps the Yu family placed great importance on
his appearance asked him to put it by Yu Jim Yuen's head. Jackie appeared
to be somewhat upset and constantly consoled his Master's widow.
Toward his master's passing, Jackie showed obvious signs of
depression, but he felt master's passing is actually a liberation. "I
don't know if it was mean for me to say. Master's passing actually has its
good and bad. The good side is actually he was already 93 and suffering
from Parkinson's disease. He already couldn't recognized people. Passing
away is a mere liberation, not allowing the younger ones to be hindered by
him. He already has passed away for a week. Now my emotions in Los
Angeles isn't as upset as a week ago."
"If Master didn't pass away, I wouldn't leave my work behind.
Actually he isn't just my master, he also is my god father!"
"When I was little because my family was poor, the old man and the
old lady had to go to work in Australia, so I was sent to live with Master.
At the time I was just 6, as soon as I signed I signed on for several
decades. There was even official ceremonies when I became his god son.
Recently I occasionally visited him, but because he was sick, he couldn't
recognized me."
"The latest time I was yelled at by Master was 6 years ago. At the
time as soon as he saw me he loudly asked why was I smoking, what have I
become, he just kept on yelling. Finally because of that I quit smoking!"
"Before he passed I couldn't see him for a final time, as his godson
I feel I failed my duties. So no matter how rushed the shoot is in Holland,
I had to come, hopefully he will be happy in Heaven. One phrase says it
all, he is a famous teacher, only famous teacher can raise talented
students."
"I felt Master hit us for our own good. When we were little we were
very naughty. The parents nowadays spoil their children too much and is
afraid to hit their kids. With more and more temptation in the society
today, I am following the rules today thanks to years of Master's strict
treatment."
As for his impression of Yu Jim Yuen, he described it with the word
"fear".
Jackie said, now Master isn't around, Hung Kam Bo has become their
master. When he saw Hung Kam Bo he showed signs of fear and respect. When
Hung Kam Bo allowed him to enter, he entered. He didn't dare to walk in
front of Hung Kam Bo.

17. Wong Jing plans a series of 5 films

While the film industry is in a weak state, Wong Jing's BOB and
partners and Jing Art companies again announce plans to rescue the market,
as they plan to make 5 movies in the future 5 months.
On the afternoon of the 15th, Wong Jing, Manfred Wong (Man Jun) and
Andrew Lau Wai Keung met with the press on the set of Storm Warriors (Fung
Wan) in the Golden Harvest studio and announced their future plans. Besides
the earlier leaked Chiu Si Hung Sun Diu Hup Nui (Beyond Time Space Holy
Condor Heroic Couple) and Sex and Zen 3 (Yuk Po Tuen 3), they successfully
got Yu Ho Yun and Alex Fong Chung Shun to star in a category III film, and
two Japanese veteran actors Juk Ye Noi Fung and Chin Yip Jun Yut have
signed on for Young and Dangerous 5 (Goo Wat Jai).
Wong Jing said, "Yu Ho Yun's film will be a category III thriller
which will be shot in America. Besides doing nude scenes, Yu Ho Yun has
passionate scenes with Fong Chung Shun."
Andrew Lau Wai Keung revealed he will make another Young and Dangerous
in the beginning of next year. Besides Yi Mein (Dior Cheng Yi Kin), Jordan
Chan Siu Chun, Michelle Reis (Lee Ka Yun) and others, Japanese actors will
join the cast and the film will be shot in Japan.

18. Dior Cheng Yi Kin isn't afraid of being compared

On the night of the 15th, Dior Cheng Yi Kin held down the fort by
himself at the premiere of his film We're No Bad Guys (Oi Seung 100% Ying
Hung).
Dior Cheng Yi Kin will star with Maggie Cheung Man Yuk in Chiu Si Hung
Sun Diu (Lit: Beyond Time Space Holy Condor). He will play Yeung Guor, and
he isn't afraid being compared to Andy Lau Tak Wa's version of the
character since his version is one that is beyond space and time which is
different than Wa Jai's. As for Young and Dangerous 5 (Goo Wat Jai), Wong
Jing plans to team Yi Mein with a Japanese idol. When asked which Japanese
actor Yi Mein would like to work with, he surprisingly answered, "I don't
know if I can make it!"
Yi Mein explained he has a concert series next February and will spend
the next half of the year making Chiu and an album, so his schedule is jam
packed. Reporters asked if he is saying to Wong Jing he isn't going to be
in Young and Dangerous. Yi Mein explained he isn't afraid to say he isn't
going to be in it, it is just if he has other choices he hopes to try other
characters since he has already made 4 Young and Dangerous.
Does Yi Mein feel it's hard to turn down roles? He denied that,
feeling Young and Dangerous has brought him fame and fortune, but he didn't
want the films to be made too close to one another as he felt even one Young
and Dangerous film a year is too many. As for whether he would make the
fifth installment next year, Yi Mein said, "Wait until next year!" Is Yi
Mein afraid Wong Jing calling him "forgetting where he came from"? Yi Mein
smiled, "We can talk!"
Suddenly Yi Mein set Jordan Chan Siu Chun up as well, point out that
Young and Dangerous can't be without him and Siu Chun doesn't know if he
has time next year. Yi Mein said, "Actually without Chan Ho Nam (his
character in Young and Dangerous) the film will still work. (But this time
the plot gives you a son named Chan Siu Chun?) If like that the film is
without Siu Chun then I would rather not do it. (Aren't you setting Siu
Chun up?) NO, I feel the casting is very important. As long as Chan Siu
Chun is there, I am there. Without Chan Siu Chun, I wouldn't do it. We
are 'two in one'!"
As for Chan Siu Chun, he said of being "set up", "He didn't set me up.
I really appreciate Yi Kin for saying that, proving there is good chemistry
between us." As for whether he can be in Young and Dangerous 5, Chan Siu
Chun felt that will need cooperation from many sides. The always playful
Siu Chun didn't show any weakness as he turned the table on Yi Kin.
"Without Chicken it's no big deal, but without Chan Ho Nam the film wouldn't
work. The two of us aren't just good friends and brothers, we are even a
good couple!"

19. Yu Jim Yuen rests in peace

The funeral of the international superstar Jackie Chan's master Yu Jim
Yuen took place at noon of the 15th in Los Angeles. After 1 hour and 15
minutes long ceremony, Yu Jim Yuen's remains accompanied by his relatives,
students, friends and others to the cemetery. Jackie Chan was at the
funeral from beginning to end, as he even personally sent his master on his
way to the cemetery.
The funeral was hosted by Yu Jim Yuen's American student Ko Kwong Boot
and began at noon. His family and students took turns presenting incense,
flowers, fruit and bows. After a Buddhist ceremony at 12:55 PM family,
students and friends began to take their last look. Yu Jim Yuen's widow Lee
Wai Fong who was filled with tears was accompanied by family and friends to
the altar and talked about their decades of love. During this portion Yu
So Chau and Mrs. Yu were the most upset as the two couldn't hold back their
tears seeing Master Yu for the last time. Many students like Jackie Chan,
Yuen Biao, Yuen Wa, etc. silently wept.
Ng Siu Nam then spoke. He said Yu Jim Yuen originated from Beijing.
Born in 1905 September 27th, he spent his life trying to spread the message
of Beijing Opera. In 1959 he created the Chinese Art Academy in Hong Kong,
teaching his art to his students. He is publicly recognized for his
contribution to the art of Beijing Opera. He also talked about what Yu Jim
Yuen did since coming to America in 1973. When he was 80, he even wrote
about his feelings, expressing the goals he wanted to accomplish for Beijing
Opera. On the 8th he passed away at his home. He was 92.
At the grave site, the students repeated the incense presentation and
each placed rose and a cup of dirt on the coffin after seeing Yu Jim Yuen
for one final time.
As Master Yu's god son and a member of Seven Little Fortune, Jackie
Chan after discussing with the other students has initially decided to set
up a plaque in Hong Kong which will be convenient for other students to pay
their respects. Jackie said, "As for the location and other details, we
will have to wait until we have met with the other brothers then decide."
Jackie Chan originally booked a 4:00 PM flight. Because he insisted
on completing his master's ceremony he had to change his plans and returned
to Holland on the 8:00 PM flight. For his master, Jackie didn't mind at
all. He used one phrase to describe his relationship with his master, "He
is the biggest benefactor in my life."
"Seeing how grand Master's funeral is, with so many people coming to
memorialize and bury him, I feel more comforted inside. Master's family
is complete. His students are all over the world. He also passed due to
old age. He left this world without any worry or care."

* During the ceremony, Yu So Chau discovered her father was without anything
to be buried with and immediately took off her necklace and jade jewelry and
her second son's Guess watch as burial goods. Yu So Chau expressed she
didn't want father to be empty handed when he arrived in the other world.

* Due to lack of experience, Master Yu's beloved students including Sammo
Hung Kam Bo, Jackie Chan, and Yuen Biao placed the coffin in the opposite
direction at the grave site.

* Jackie Chan due to the funeral stopped work for 3 days on Who Am I which
is currently shooting in Holland, losing US$200,000.

20. Alex Fong Chung Shun doesn't want his rear to be his new film's selling
point

Alex Fong Chung Shun will star with Yu Ho Yun in DNA Fok Jai Mor Nui
(Lit: DNA replicate evil woman). According to Won gJing, Yu Ho Yun will
perform in the nude. Fong Chung Shun expressed to his knowledge he will
have bed scenes with Yu Ho Yun.
Will he need to bare his back side? He expressed he doesn't know yet.
Of course he wouldn't want to because his back side isn't his best side.
Besides DNA, he will also star in Wong Jing company's Hung Hing Sup
Sam Mui (Lit: Hung Hing 13 Sister) and Chiu Si Hung Sun Diu (Lit: Beyond
Time Space Holy Condor). Fong Chung Shun so far only agreed to star in
Hung.
His contract with manager Johnnie To Kei Fung will be up next March,
but he still hasn't talked renewal yet. He joked perhaps he is a minor
character so negotiation wouldn't take place so soon. He stressed that
he and Ah To got along fine and thanked Ah To for taking care of him for
3 years.

21. Michael Hui Koon Man would rather be a director

Michael Hui Koon Man revealed his self written and directed project
Dai Bun Chat (Lit: Big Dumb Thief) will begin production at the end of the
year at the soonest and without problems it will be released next summer.
He said due to its special effect needs in America, later he will head to
the U.S. to understand the situation further.
Hui Koon Man said it has been more than 3 years since he made a film,
but he said he can wait even longer, as he joked, "Since I still have money
to eat, I will eat from that for now!" He also joked that he has broken
his past record. As for having his heart set on Jordan Chan Siu Chun,
Michael isn't worried that the delay will affect Siu Chun's schedule, as he
can wait for an actor who is appropriate for the film. Although he did
perform in the movies during that time, he likes directing more. He
believed he wouldn't be stiff at the director's chair even though he hasn't
directed for awhile, since he constantly is coming up with concepts in his
mind, when the time is right then he would make a movie. He said his
greatest wish is to make a movie, after being seen by anyone the viewers
would say it's a new and special Hui Koo Man movie.
When asked if he would give his daughter a role, he said she has been
talented since childhood, if there is an appropriate character he would ask
her; but he felt it would be best if someone else helps her, thus proving
others' recognition of her. Hui Koon Man also said his daughter accidentally
stumbled into the business.
As for the Performance Artist Association, Hui Koon Man has already
been chair for two terms, due to club rules he couldn't exceed two terms
in the position, so after this December, there will be a new chair.

22. Next Magazine, issue , Entertainment Eye
Giant Eagle and Its Companion: New Edition

The Louis Cha (Gum Yung) classic Giant Eagle and Its Companion (Sun
Diu Hup Lui) has always been the subject filmmakers fought over.
Originally Tsui Hark planned to shoot an animated version, but Wong
Jing and Manfred Wong (Man Jun) was one step ahead, as they began to shoot
the live version.
On top of that, they will abandon the ancient background and turn it
into science fiction.
The best part is still the casting, with Dior Cheng Yi Kin playing
Yeung Gor, Maggie Cheung Man Yuk as Siu Lung Nui, and Amanda Lee Wai
Man as Lee Mok Sau.
Wong Jing said, "It will be absolutely fresher than Storm Warriors
(Fung Wan)."
The rights to Gum Yung's Giant Eagle has been purchased by the
Japanese and Wong Jing bought the film rights from the Japanese and will
invest HK$30 million on the project.
Both Cheng Yi Kin and Cheung Man Yuk have signed and Lee Wai Man also
has a great chance to play Lee Mok Sau. As for the other characters, the
casting hasn't been decided. The film will begin shooting in the middle of
October for a Lunar New Year release.
When asked to confirm, Wong Jing said, "I only can say the title will
be Chiu Si Hung Sun Diu (Beyond Time Space Holy Condor). It will be without
a time background, more sci-fi and heavy metal than Saviour of the Soul
(91 Sun Diu Hup Nui) (Andy Lau Tak Wai, Anita Mui Yim Fong). Now I can be
sure of Cheng Yi Kin and Cheung Man Yuk's characters, but I can't talk about
the other stuff." As for planning, Wong Jing only was willing to say, "I
am now writing the major scenes in the script with Man Jun (Manfred Wong).
I can say besides it not taking place in the ancient times, the rest will
be very faithful to the original because I personally really like the story.
I will focus on the novel's final third."
When the character design was discussed, Wong Jing refuses to answer
in order to keep everything confidential, "I already have a concept, but I
can talk about the particulars. If you have seen Neon Genesis Evangelion
(Famous Japanese animation) then that's pretty much it!"
Why did he use over HK$2 million to have Cheung Man Yuk return to
making commercial films? Wong Jing said, "I definitely can't say! But she
charged the full price, there was no haggling!" - Ngai Tak Sum

23. Ming Pao Daily, September 9th, 1997, Entertainment
Ann Hui On Wa's Half a Lifetime of loving Eileen Cheung Oi Ling
--Eighteen Springs hovers the gap between words and visuals

In 1975, Lai Dik Television director Cheung Chi Gok made a 40 episode
TV series Eighteen Springs (Boon Sun Yuen), starring Lee Yip and Chan Chun
Wa.
In 1983, before Ann Hui On Wa made Love in a Fallen City (King Sing Ji
Luen) she already wanted to make Eighteen Springs and cast Chow Yun Fat and
Sylvia Chang (Cheung Nga Ga)
In 1997, Hui On Wa finally made her dream come true by finishing
Eighteen Springs. The leads have gone to Leon Lai Ming and Wu Chien Lien
(Ng Sin Lin).
They were all based on Eileen Cheung Oi Ling novels but made by
different directors and 10 or 20 years in between. What has the half a
lifetime of Eighteen Springs become?

- Tang Ming Yi

Is Eighteen Springs a story you like 100%?
"Yes."
Would you consider as completing your dream of so many years?
"Yes."
Toward this film is there any place that is not satisfactory?
"Every film will have its dissatisfactory places."
Like?
"......" (After two minutes of silence she still could give an answer.)
Comparing to Love in a Fallen City?
"It was made more naturally than Love in a Fallen City."
Hui On Wa's words are like this, simply, direct, and without a bit of
waste. After she opens up, she would speak more and more, but the speed of
her speech would become faster and faster. She said she is used to fast,
even when making a movie she could only tolerate up to the fifth take.
Actually, interviewing a fast talker, within the short 30 minutes,
is already very exciting.

FAITHFUL TO THE ORIGINAL
Over a decade ago, Hui On Wa already thought about turning this Eileen
Chang classic into a film, only until now did she get her chance. Although
more than a decade have passed, she felt the emotions in Eighteen Springs,
from today's point of view, still have its attraction and wouldn't be
outdated.
She took a puff of her cigarette, made a circle out of the smoke, then
said, "The old fashion sentimental stories will still work ten years from
now. My feeling is heavier as the time passed. Basically, I didn't have
any special method to shoot the film, only turning the visuals and sets
into more folk style and not the 30's elegant Shanghai Beach background."
All this time, Hui On Wa hoped to make the film that is faithful to
the original, like moving the setting from Nanjing in the book to the
extremely frigid Suzhou, because it is difficult to find the feeling Eileen
Chang has written about in today's Nanjing and certain places in Suzhou
still has that old style flavor.
"I hope to be faithful the spirit of the original work, but I can't
on the details, like the best part, the preface, wouldn't be made at all,
unlike it is done like Red Rose, White Rose (Hung Mui Gwai Yu Bak Mui Gwai)
putting the actual words on screen; but reading a novel is still reading a
novel and movies are still movies, doing it this way will increase the
distance between the viewers and the movie." she said, biting her nails.

MADLY IN LOVE WITH EIGHTEEN SPRINGS
Would she want to ignore the box office and still make a Eighteen
Springs faithful to the original?
"Yes." (A moment of silence)
"Although I am not a fan of Eileen Chang novels, I indeed really admire
Eighteen Springs -- the only story I like by her. Of course, I also hope
the film can make money, but there is really no way to add a bit of
commercial factor into this story. Unless it's a Category III Eighteen
Springs. Ha ha......" She couldn't stop laughing, like a naughty child.
"But, I feel this subject is more like life than Love in a Fallen City.
It wouldn't deliberately return to the 30s, but it also wouldn't past today,
so it should be easier for people to accept." she added.

LAI MING OPENS UP
Remember how Hui On Wa's The Story of Woo Viet (Wu Yuet Dik Goo Si) made
Chow Yun Fat and Cora Miao (Liu Yin Yun)'s stars shone on film, just like
George Lee Chi Cheung, Ma Si Sun, David Wu Dai Wai, Maggie Cheung Man Yuk,
Josephine Siao Fong Fong and others who because of making Hui On Wa's film
have taken a level up in their career.
Who knows this time how the destiny of Eighteen Springs' Leon Lai Ming,
Wu Chien Lien (Ng Sin Lin), Anita Mui Yim Fong, Wong Lui and Annie Wu (Ng
Sun Kwan) will turn out?
She laughed lightly, "Lai Ming was my first choice. Before he made
Comrade, Almost a Love Story (Tim Mut Mut), I already chose him, he and Siu
Sin's looks are very classical."
"Actually, Wong Lui's acting is also good. He would have been also
appropriate to play Shum Sai Yun (Lai Ming's character), but I believe the
boss wouldn't have invested then! Also, Ge You's minor character is also
very cute. I in order to turn his character from the villain into a half
good half bad one added more to his role."
"Basically, each character in the film is very difficult to interpret,
especially the insides of the male and female leads which are the hardest
to get in touch with and easily can be overdone. Luckily, since Comrade,
Lai Ming seems to have opened up as his acting got better and better. If
on this year's Hong Kong Film Award he encounters weaker opponent, he should
be able to take home the Best Actor Award, but he faces Happy Together (Chun
Guong Ja Sit)'s Tony Leung Chiu Wai, oh well!" She said directly, without
reserve.

WANTS MONEY AND NOT AWARDS
Many people thought after Summer Snow (Nui Yun Sei Sup), Hui On Wa can
easily raised fund, unfortunately many bosses felt Summer Snow only used
a little over 7 million to make and weren't willing to invest more on her
next film. So she didn't gain too many advantages from winning an award.
She said indifferently, "In order to raise over 10 million to make
Eighteen Springs, I spent a lot of time. So when you asked me if I like
winning awards or a higher box office receipt, I would definitely choose
box office because that way the boss are willing to give you more money for
your next movie. The more the money, the better the film will be."
Did she have pressure? Failure?
"Every time I make a movie I treat it as my last. I did my best so
there is no regrets. I treat failures as a warning for the next film."
She summed up.

* EIGHTEEN YEARS OF FILM LOVE
At the end of the 70s, Hong Kong began a new wave trend, as a group of
new director rose. Hui On Wa solidified her position with her first film
The Secret (Fung Gip).
Then, in the beginning of the 80s Hui On Wa made The Story of Woo
Viet and Boat People (Tau Bun No Hoi). With a realistic style, she was
once considered as using Vietnam as a symbol of Hong Kong's future. This
kind of political color gradually faded in her later work.
"I also didn't understand why in the past I would make an over the top
film like Boat People." Hui On Wa said seriously.
In the films afterward, Hui On Wa already stopped playing with
technique, politics. Song of the Exile (Hat Lo Chau Hun) was even done in
an autobiographical tone, describing the relationship between her and her
step mother and showed quite a number of emotional ties and knots.
Besides enjoying to use China, Vietnam, Japan and other exotic locales
as the background, Hui On Wa's productions also have another special point:
she likes the light descriptive stories and even specializes in the
expression of the identity and value of the women of the time. Summer Snow
is the most obvious representation.
However Hui On Wa seems to love love stories that describe the male and
female leads spending half their lifetimes to seek their most beloved, only
to discover that person is right beside them, like Love in a Fallen City,
Starry is the Night (Gum Ye Sing Guong Chan Lan), and her new film Eighteen
Springs.
Hui On Wa explained, "I like to talk about destiny through the unions
and partings in this kind of love stories. This doesn't represent my view
toward love. I also don't hope my love life to be as tragic."

* Summing Up Women Fifty
Hui On Wa's family originated from Northeast Liuling. Her mother is
Japanese. Hui On Wa was raised in Hong Kong and studied British Literature
and Comparative Literature at Hong Kong University. In 1972 after earning
her degree in Literature, she went to London Film School. In 1975 she
returned to Hong Kong and became the late director King Hu (Wu Kam Chuen)'s
assistant. Later she was a writer/director at TVB.
In 79 with her first film The Secret she took home three Golden Horse
awards from Taiwan; 82's Boat People won her 5 HKFA; with 95's Summer Snow
she again won at the Berlin Film Festival, Golden Horse, HKFA and Golden
Bauhinia award.
In 18 years she made 14 movies, including The Spooky Bunch (Jong Doe
Jang), The Story of Woo Viet, Love in a Fallen Story, The Romance of Book
and Sword (Shu Gim Yun Sau Lok), Princess Frangance (Heung Heung Gong Ju),
Starry is the Night (Gum Ye Sing Guong Chan Lan), Song of the Exile (Hat
Lo Chau Hun), Zodiac Killers (Gik Doe Jui Jung), My American Grandson
(Shanghai Ga Kei), Ah Kam and other aforementioned films.

- "Cheung Oi Ling" is untouchable?
Some said because the attraction of Eileen Chang's words are too strong,
difficult to control, and easily criticized by Fans of Chang, the film
industry has a myth about "Cheung Oi Ling" being untouchable......
- Lam Chun Yu
Eileen Chang passed away in 95, discovered at her U.S. home days after,
shocking Chinese all over the world.
Among the Chinese film circle, her work has become one of the favorites
among film creators for adaptation. Hui On Wa in 1984 invited Chow Yun Fat
and Cora Miao (Liu Hin Yun) to star in Love in a Fallen City, playing Fan
Nau Yuen and Bak Lau So. When Hui On Wa released this film 13 years ago,
it became the talk of the film industry and she also became the first
director to adapt a Cheung Oi Ling novel.
Then Taiwan director Dan Hong Cheung made No Nui, starring the then
rumored liberal woman Pat Ha Man Jik.
In 1994, Hong Kong director Stanley Kwan Kam Peng moved another Cheung
Oi Ling novel Red Rose White Rose to the big screen. At the time Winston
Chao (Chiu Man Suen) played Chun Bo, Joan Chen and Veronica Yip Yuk Hing
played Red Rose and White Rose.
At the time Kwan Kam Peng also admitted Cheung Oi Ling's words are too
outstanding, some of which actually has no way to translate to visual; but
he said directly he indeed loved Cheung Oi Ling's novel too much and was
consumed by the 30's Big Shanghai atmosphere.
During the planning of Red Rose White Rose, it faced many obstacles.
No matter whether it was on the script or the casting, changes came over and
over. Kwan Kam Peng originally asked Lau Hang to write the screenplay. The
first draft because only took the spirit of the characters in the novel, the
situation wasn't ideal, the second was even worse. Later Lam Lik Wa took
over and it was smooth sailing from there.
The film was once nominated for 10 Golden Horse awards in Taiwan, as
both Yip Yuk Hing and Joan Chen were nominated for Best Actress.
In 96 Hui On Wa began planning Eighteen Springs. Just as that film
was in production, Taiwan director Hou Hsiao Hsien (Hau How Yin) also
prepared to adapt Hoi Seung Fa (Lit: Flower on Sea). Suddenly Cheung Oi
Ling's work again became the talk of the town.
Hoi Seung Fa actually isn't an 100% Cheung Oi Ling original. While she
was in the U.S., she translated this story written by Hong Chi Wan in Suzhou
dialect at the end of the 19th Century. Hoi Seung Fa is also considered
the most difficult to read and hardest to adapt among Cheung's work.
Filmmakers tirelessly adapt Cheung's work but earned major difference
of opinions between audiences and film critics, it can even be said that the
criticism never stopped.
Love in a Fallen City although teamed the perfect pair still was too
much trouble then it is worth. Criticism flew about Liu Hin Yun's
little woman image couldn't successfully interpret Bak Lau So's experience
and emotions, and about Hui On Wa not being able to come to a common ground
between her personal style and the original work, thus diminishing the
soul of the novel and losing the personal style of director.
As for Fallen City's assistant director Kwan Kam Peng's Red Rose White
Rose, the criticism grew even stronger, especially by putting the words of
the novel on screen as the exchange between scenes and even having Winston
Chao's Chun Bo reading excerpts. The film thus has words leading images and
becomes too limited by the original.
Some said because the attraction of Eileen Chang's words are
too strong, difficult to control, and easily criticized by Fans of
Chang, the film industry has a myth about "Cheung Oi Ling" being untouchable.
Whether it is touchable or not, the classics remain the same. Cheung
Oi Ling novels' effect on the world's Chinese population remains never
ending.
---
[New Films]

Eighteen Springs
Can: Boon Sun Yuen
Lit: Half Life Fate
Originally written by: Eileen Cheung Oi Ling
Director: Ann Hui On Wa
Cast: Leon Lai Ming, Anita Mui Yim Fong, Ng Sin Lin, Ge You, Annie Wu (Ng
Sun Kwan)
Rating: IIA
Length: 125 mins.

Goo Man Lo in order to make a living for her family leaves her lover Cheung
Yu Gun and becomes an escort. Later she marries investor Juk Hung Choi.
Hung Choi is tempted by the beauty of Man Lo's little sister Man Jing and
rapes her. Man Lo for the profits of herself and her family locks Man Jing
away and lies to Man Jing's boyfriend Sum Sun Yun, saying Man Jing has
already married another. Sun Yun amidst the pain and sorrow agrees to
marry a daughter of a wealthy family Sek Chui Ji. Man Jing after being
raped by Man Jing is pregnant......

Love is not a Game, but a Joke
Can: Fei Yut Boon Oi Ching Siu Shuet
Lit: Love Novel Like Flight
Producer: Stanley Kwan Kam Peng
Director, Screen writer: Yip Kam Hung
Cast: Hsu Chi (Shu Kei), Andy Lau Chi On, Christine Ng Wing Mei, Jan Lamb
Hoi Fung, Wallace Chung Hong Leung, Theresa Lee Yi Hung, Shum Yuk Mei
Rating: IIA

Three youths who studied aboard in Canada, because their dream girl Karen
said "See you again if it's in our destiny.", all return to Hong Kong,
cramp into a cheap Tsimshatsui motel, and begin a first come first serve
competition of love. The three each uses their own tricks. Eddie tries to
find his way with a fortune teller in Wong Tai Sin, only to encounter a
sweaty but sexy female bus driver; Paul asks for police woman to help;
Leslie spends the day making phone calls, but another girl approaches
Leslie......

Troublesome Night 2
Can: Yum Yeung Lo Ji Ngor Joi Nei Jor Yau
Lit: Ying Yang Road: I am By Your Side
Producer: Nam Yin
Director: Herman Yau Lai To
Cast: Louis Koo Tin Lok, Simon Lui Yu Yeung, Allen Ting Chi Chun, Amanda
Lee Wai Man, Christine Au Yeung Mui Chi, Christine Ng Wing Mei, Liz Kong Hei
Man, Lai Yiu Cheung
Rating: IIB

Radio DJs Sum Jai, Chai Siu and Cheung Fat (Long Hair) are hosts of a
popular ghost story show, but because of the show each encounters strange
events. Finally even their lives are......

Misty
Can: Mai Le Fa Gip
Lit: Mysterious Flower Robbery
Director: Kenki Saegusa (Sam Ji Kin Hei)
Cast: Yuki Amami (Tin Hoi Yau Hei), Takeshi Kaneshiro (Gum Sing Mo), Etsushi
Toyokawa (Fung Chuen Yu Si)
Rating: IIB
Length: 99 mins.

19 years ago on a foggy night, Masago witnessed her mother's murder by a
masked burglar. Although she couldn't see the masked robber's face, in
Masago's mind, he left the red lizard like birth mark. Since her mother's
murder, Masago lost only relative and grew up only with a mirror her mother
left. 19 years later, Masago falls in love with a young warrior Takehiro
and decides to head to the capital to marry. On the way, Masago's mirror is
stolen by the thief Ah Jing. Masago while chasing Ah Jing accidentally
injures her knee. Takehiro goes to help her up. The couple's passion
suddenly flares as they begin to make love in the forest. Unexpectedly,
thief king Tajormaru also passed the forest. Soon he reveals his arm
with the red lizard and pushes Masago on the ground......in the end Takehiro
is killed, but the reason he is killed leads to several different versions.

[ Info from Ryan's Movieworld, http://www.movieworld.com.hk, Netvigator,
http://www.netvigator.com, HKstar, and Webhkcorner ]

Funny Adventures
Can: Dau Ding Kei Yu Gei
Lit: Dau Ding Strange Adventures
Director: Clifton Ko Chi Sum
Cast: Xie Bing Yu (Tse Bing Yuk), Wu Jin Yin (Ng Kit Yun), Ken Sui Chiu
(Gan Sui Chiu), Hui Fan, Cheung Pui Tak
Length: 70 mins.

Naughty child from China, wanting to explore the colorful Hong Kong, leaves
his mother at the airport without notice. Unexpectedly, the kid falls into
the hands of the bad guys and faces all kind of danger. In the end, with
his smarts, he overcomes all the obstacles and reunites with his family.

Chinese Chocolate
Can: Lok Liu
Lit: Fallen Bird
Director: Chu Yin
Cast: Diana Peng Tan, Chu Yin, Wong Pak Siu, James Purcell

In 1986, two young Chinese women who don't know each other board a plane
to Canada full of hopes for the new land. Once arrived, the pair change
their names to Jesse and Camille and quickly meet up with all kinds of men.
For survival and love, they bitter struggle until the end, when fate
finally brings the two together......

Theft Under the Sun
Can: Ho Ching Koi Tin
Lit: Passion Cover Sky
Director: Cha Chuen Yi
Cast: Julian Cheung Chi Lam, Gigi Lai Chi, Michael Wong Man Tak, So Chi
Wai

During an operation with a master criminal, an undercover cop fails his
mission because he was shot by an uniform officer. His superior suspects he
has become a bad seed and refuses to allow him to rejoin the force. In order
to prove his innocence, the cop decides to follow the thief to the Sino-
Russian border on an arms struggle deal, but on the way they are chased by
Mainland police. During the escape the cop and the criminal become friends.
When they return to the Hong Kong border, the police awaits on the other
side and......

The Breakthrough
Can: Dai Juen Jit
Lit: Big Turn Around
Director: Wai Lim
Cast: Lo Kei, Foo Hok Sing, Goo Yuet, Suen Fei Foo, Suen Wai Man, Lo Hei,
Ng King
Length: IIA
Length: 150 mins.

March 18th, 1947. The Republican army occupied Yin On and the Communist
Revolution was endangered. In order to crush the Republicans they attacked
heavily two liberated regions of Hap But and San Tung, turning around the
war. Mao Tse Tung suggested to escalate the war into Republican ruled
regions. With the Lau Tang, Chan Suk, Chan Tse armies, they formed a
triangle and completely changed the strategies of both sides. Under the
extreme difficult battle environment, Lau Pak Sing and Tang Siu Ping (Deng
Xiao Ping) trusted and supported each other, leaving the danger from
themselves and hope for the other and forming a sincere and genuine
friendship during the war.

We're No Bad Guys
Can: Oi Seung 100% Ying Hung
Lit: Loving 100% Hero
Director: Wong Jing
Cast: Dior Cheng Yi Kin, Jordan Chan Siu Chun, Gigi Leung Wing Kei,
Vivian Hsu (Tsui Yeuk Suen)
---
[Yakety Yak]
The views and opinions Expressed here are purely those of the Chaffing
Editor and in no way reflect those of Hong Kong Film Top 10 Box Office,
its contributors and affiliated web sites.

I had a double stack bacon burger at Chili's in honor of Morrissey's
Central Park performance today. So I am a murderer, at least I am NOT
the last of the famous international playboy...will I get my @$$
kicked if I show up with a sausage sandwich from the San Gennaro Festival?

Things just keep getting stranger and stranger. The video store forgot
to give me the last tape of Demi God and Semi Devil 1997 (Tin Lung Bat
Bo). I am freaking four episodes away from the freaking end!
Apparently, the more PO'ed I am, the more tolerant I get. Just look:

Cause We Are So Young: I figured what the hey, I got nothing better to
do anyway. Let's watch this tape. Surprisingly I actually enjoyed
this film. Like all the other Feel 100% clones, the movie is about
three guys and their romances. Considering my situation, I was really
relating to Chuen (Leo Koo Kui Kei)'s predicament. Mark Lui Chun Yu
looks like a male version of his protege Kelly Chan Wai Lam, but acts
a little better than her first time. The cast pretty much held its
ground without any break through performance. Vincent Kok Tak Siu
continues to show signs of why he can take over Wong Jing's spot at
China Star, directing an entertaining yet not too special affair. Of
course, as usual, the most entertaining performances in the film are
by the cameo stars. I am not saying it's in the same level as Tom,
Dick, and Hairy (Fung Chun Sam Hup), but it's at least worth a rental.

Note: I just happened to like Leo Koo Kui Kei, so my opinions might
be obviously biased. Also, I am a sucker for these kind of movies,
apparently so is the trivia department.

Your Chaffing Editor.

[ The Lost Issue ]
PS. For your amusement, here are the excerpts from an issue of the Top
10 that was NEVER published. It was intended for occasions like when our
chaffing editor decides to go on vacation and our contributing editor,
Uncle Prawn, has to "take over". Have Fun.

[FEED ME] The Hong Kong Top 10 and Other Information That I Spend Hours &
Hours Translating & Typing.
[NYWTF] READ ME: Top 10

"
The Hong Kong Top 10 is *still* looking for a female partner. Applicants
need to have the ability to read/write Chinese (both Cantonese &
Mandarin), must have all their own hardware (Computer, VCR, Laser Disk
player, VCD player) and software (Word Processor, Web Browser, Leslie
Cheung CDs). Must love HK movies and be warm, friendly, intelligent,
straight and drink Red Dog Beer. Applications are still open.

1) Loletta Lee was heard to be upset with the story about the sexual
problems of another well known actress. She is now telling the press that
the story really happened to her and it was a 'grapefruit' that was removed
(and not a ping pong ball as indicated).

2) Jackie Chan's herpes problem has led him to release a complete list of
all the women he has slept with. The list will published in "Next" magazine
in 2 parts. Part 1 in the current issue goes from 1978-87 and part 2 (1987
- present) will be published in the next issue as a separate supplement.
Women listed in part 1 include the usual suspects (Anita Mui, Maggie
Cheung, Carol "DoDo' Cheng) plus some unexpected names (Loni Anderson, 2
of the 3 Soong sisters, 5 of the 7 Princesses, Agneta & Anni-Frid (from
ABBA), Nancy Reagan, Blondie, Joyce Godenzi). Rumored to be in the second
list are Gong Li, Dolly Parton, Sun Yee Farrow, Rosie O'Donnell, Vanna
White, Princess Di and RuPaul. Jackie would neither confirm or deny these
names, but when asked if Jenny McCarthy was on the second list, his comment
was "Please, I do have *some* taste !

3) NEWS FROM THE FUTURE:
Dateline March 1998. The Hong Kong Film Directors Association held a
press conference today to announce upcoming releases. Wong Jing (president
and only member) said that the following films were planned. "Old God Of
Gamblers" starring Law Kar Ying, "Fat & Sloppy God Of Gamblers"
starring Ng Man Tat, "God of Gamblers Shows His Butt" with Lau Ching
Wan, "Gay God Of Gamblers" with Leslie Cheung, "Really Ugly God Of
Gamblers" with Tsui Kam Kong (see note 2) and "My Girlfriend Is The
God Of Gamblers" with Chingmy Yau. Temporarily postponed is "The Heroic Trio
Returns" (due to casting problems - there are only 2 working actresses in
Hong Kong currently) and "God Of Ping Pong Gamblers" with Rosamund Kwan
(medical reasons).
Dateline May 1998. Currently set for Sony Pictures is "White Man
Can't Dance" the sequel to the 1995 hit. The story this time is about 2
midwestern white guys who move to an ethnically mixed neighborhood in NY to
try to break into show business. The two leads will be played by Michael
Jackson and Jackie Chan.

EDITORIAL: OK, so I watched this film that those two guys (Gene or Roger or
somebody) recommended. Well, the story seemed to be going to have the
potential in the beginning, but as the film goes on, it runs out of gas and
got real dumb
real quick. It starts off with this old guy dying in a dark room (which was
good), but then it just re-ran his *whole life* from childhood. It took
forever and when it finally came to the good parts (he's running for office
and gets caught with his mistress by the opposition) there were no bedroom
shots or anything. Even worse, this girl's supposed to be a singer, but
what does she sing - Opera ! And badly at that. Oh yeah, and it was
confusing too. After the girl opens in an opera (and stinks), the hero's
best friend writes a *good* review of her (to be a nice guy). But the hero
comes in later and writes a *bad* review and then is pissed off at his
friend. Made no sense. Also, there were hardly any action scenes. I fast
forwarded thru most of it and only found one scene where the hero throws a
lot of stuff around. Real boring! And then he dies. For some reason, they
burn a sled at the end of the film. Plus, this was filmed with all sorts of
'arty' lighting, making it hard to see some scenes. I couldn't tell if it
was the film or the really bad bootleg that I was watching, but it looked
like the color was *so* bad that it was in Black & White.

TRIVIA QUIZ: Name the film the the HK database which contains a review with
EXACTLY the following quote:

'The story seemed to be going to have the potential in the
beginning, but as the film goes on, it runs out of gas and got real dumb
real quick.'

And no cheating by looking thru the database !
"
[ Ed. Note: Next week more excerpts! ]
---
[Matt's URL]

Those Were the Days
http://www.meiah.com/thosedays/twtd.htm

Commercial Radio
http://www.crhk.com.hk

Television Broadcast Limited
http://www.tvb.com.hk

City Entertainment Magazine
http://www.webhkcorner.com/cityent/

Tai Seng's Home Page (In Chinese)
http://www.taisengentertainment.com/

[The Classified Ad]

* Hong Kong Top 10 Box Office is STILL looking for volunteers for the
assistant news editor position(s). Ability to read and translate
Chinese is a must. Ability to view Chinese on the internet,
especially the World Wide Web is required. If interested, please
send inquiries to the addresses below.

[New York Area Concerts]

--
[ Trivia of the Week ] SPOILER CITY!

Walk In
Year: 4/1997
Can: Duet Se
Man: Duo2 She4
Lit: Robbing Residence

Whose body does the officer (Dayo Wong Chi Wa) "walk in" after "walking out"
of Chicken (Danny Lee Sau Yin) for the last time?

[ Last Week's Answer ]
Young and Dangerous 4
Can: Goo Wat Jai Jin Mo But Sing
Lit: Wise Guys: No War Couldn't Be Won

When Chan Ho Nam (Dior Cheng Yi Kin) and Yun Yun (Michelle Reis [Lee Ka
Yun]) met for the second time, they were set up for a double date with
Chicken (Jordan Chan Siu Chan) and his girlfriend (Karen Joy Morris [Mok
Man Wai]). When Chan Ho Nam and Chicken were introduced to Yun Yun,
what were their names?

Peter Chan and Simon Chiu. Considering how Yi Mein looks with the hair,
he does look kinda like Peter Chan.
------------------------------------------------------------
Box office info : Variety, September 8 - September 14, 1997
The usual suspects : Jerry Chan, Internet Movie Database
Erors : ye olde chaffing editor, Uncle Prawn

For The Week ending Wednesday, September 10, 1997

Title Gross Scrns Wks Cumulative
($US) ($US)
$1 = HK$7.73

1 Those Were The Days 359,074 21 2 1,057,896
Can : Ching Chong Lan Hing Lan Dai
Lit : Special Package Trouble Brothers
d. Cho Kim Nam
Dayo Wong Chi Wa, Nat Chan Pak Cheung,
Francis Ng Chun Yu, Gallen Law Ka Leung,
Maggie Cheung Ho Yi, Hsu Chi (Shu Kei),
Joyce Chan Yin Hang, Monica Chan Fat Yung,
Teresa Mak Ka Kei
[ Summary below ]

2 Face/Off 341,413 17 4 3,499,603
d. John Woo (Ng Yu Sum)
John Travolta, Nicolas Cage

3 My Dad Is A Jerk 257,243 24 2 463,552
Can : Dui But Hei, Dor Je Nei
Lit : Sorry, Thank You
d. Joe Cheung Tung Cho
Lau Ching Wan, Lam Bo Lun,
Hsu Chi (Shu Kei), Cecilia Yip Tung
[ Summary below ]

4 Spawn 220,647 21 2 791,492
d. Mark A.Z. Dippe
Michael Jai White, John Leguizamo,
Martin Sheen, Theresa Randle

5 Breakdown 174,254 14 2 475,915
d. Jonathan Mostow
Kurt Russell, J. T. Walsh, Kathleen Quinlan

6 Men in Black 103,490 8 6 3,764,529
d. Barry Sonnefield
Tommy Lee Jones, Will Smith, Linda Fiorentino

7 Princess Mononoke 42,806 4 4 818,598
Can : Yau Ling Gung Ju
Lit : Spirit Princess
Voices: Matsuda Youji, Ishida Yuriko,
Tanaka Yuuko, Kamijou Tsunehiko
[ Summary below ]

8 Happy Together 37,364 21 1 37,364
Can : Hei Hei Bik Yun
Lit : Fortune Air Force People
d. Wong Ching Wa
Lydia Shum Din Ha, Ng Man Tat,
Max Mok Siu Chung, Linda Wong Hing Ping,
Christine Ng Wing Mei
[ Summary below ]

9 Downtown Torpedoes 34,489 3 5 1,544,295
Can : Sun Tau Dip Ying
Lit : Godly Thief Spy Shadow
d. Teddy Chan Tak Sum
Takeshi Kaneshiro (Gum Sing Mo), Jordan Chan Siu Chun,
Charlie Yeung Choi Nei, Theresa Lee Yi Hung,
Ken Wong Hap Hei, Alex Fong Chung Shun
[ Summary below ]

10 Swallowtail Butterfly 19,233 1 1 19,233
Can : Yin Mei Dip
Lit : Swallowtail Butterfly
d. Shunji Iwai (Ngam Jan Jun Yi)
Hiroshi Mikami (Sam Seung Bok Si), Chara (Cheuk Na),
Yosuke Eguchi (Gong Hau Yeung Gai), Tomoko Yamaguchi (San Hau Ji Ji),
Ayumi Ito (Yi Tung Bo), Andy Hui Chi On
[ Summary below ]

Summaries for some of the films above. Some contain SPOILERS
From Next Magazine http://www.nextmedia.com.hk/next

THOSE WERE THE DAYS
Rating: IIB

Forward director Wong Jing Wai during an award ceremony press conference
curses the early Cantonese Film period to be the Dark Ages of Hong Kong
films then argues and fights with director Wong Sing Fat. Later he returns
to the past to the set of a Cantonese film in 1967, meets a group of stars
who have yet to become stars, makes several alternative image specialty
films, attracts the admiration of actresses Man Bo Chu and Shiu Fong Fong,
and finally causes the group of actors and actresses to fight and break
up......

MY DAD IS A JERK
Rating: IIA

Lee Lap Cheung is a immature slacker who is going nowhere. His ex-wife Yip
Ting has become a powerful woman in the business world within a few years.
Cheung in a moment of anger requests Yip Ting to allow him and his son
Jason to spend some time together. Jason is an free, innocent and lovable
child. Although he is a child, he is quite righteous. Under his influence,
Cheung finally changes for the better to become someone with a true sense of
responsibility......

PRINCESS MONONOKE
Original Story, Director: Hayao Miyazaki (Gung Kei Jun)
Art Director: Kazuo Ojika (Nam Lok Wor Hung), Futami Yamamoto (San Boon Yi
Sam)
Music: Jo Hisaishi (Gau Sek Yeung)
Rating: IIA
Length: 133 mins.

In ancient Japan, humans and gods have a period of war. At the time humans
are committing all kinds of sins and angering the Forest God Shishi Gami
(Kirin Beast). So the Holy Beast decides to name White Wolf God and Wild
Boar King to be protectors and gives them holy powers to protect the lives
of the forest. One day, the Wild Boar King couldn't stand human's selfish
behavior and madly rushed into human's village, luckily Prince Ashitaka
(Flying Bird) killed him in time; but, before the Wild Boar King dies, he
places a curse on Ashitaka. The Prince returns home and asks an old witch
for ways to eliminate the curse. The only way is to get the scripture in
the West.
Ashitaka on the way earns the admiration of Eboshi Gozen who invites
him to join to the Tatara iron making group, "God Elimination Army", mainly
to fight Mononoke Hime-san (Princess Spirit) and her followers. Eboshi
Gozen and Mononoke Hime finally meet as the two swear to kill the other;
suddenly Ashitaka's curse suddenly changes and gives him power to stop their
fight. Between the two women, which side will Ashitaka end up with? Can he
also successfully eliminate the curse?

HAPPY TOGETHER
Rating: I

Gau Jung is a cheap Mainland miser. One day he and King King, a co worker
he has a crush on, travel to Hong Kong and visit his nephew Ah Ling on the
way. Ah Ling originally is a housekeeper for a wealthy family. When her
employers travel aboard, she pretends to be the owner of the house and
plays host to her uncle and King King, leading to a series of comedy......

DOWNTOWN TORPEDOES
Rating: II
Length: 90 minutes

Specialists Jackal and Cash are arrested by the British Hong Kong
government special agent Johnny and forced to trace the counterfeit
currency printing plates in order to save the possible British Pound
currency problems. Jackal and Cash meet with Titan and Phoenix and their
contact Sam as the five form a formidable team and begin action.
Unfortunately they are then swept into the war of espionage between the
British Intelligence and the Iranian Counterfeit organization......

[ Ryan's Movieworld Hong Kong ]
A.T.M is a high tech industrial espionage organization, its member are
Jackal, Cash, and Titan, who will field all kinds of industrial espionage
assignments for the organization. One day, they are all arrested by G-team,
as the mysterious go between who has never been seen turns to be a woman,
Sam. G-team superior Stanley coerce them into helping the police on a
secret mission: to steal counterfeit currency plates out of the British
intelligence agency's Hong Kong base. The four finally accept this
mission. Sam finds a national defense network expert Phoenix to help the
trio. The five collaborate and come up with a detail plan to enter the
base. Although they successful obtain the plates, they fall into Stanley's
trap......

SWALLOWTAIL BUTTERFLY
Director/Screeplay: Shunji Iwai (Ngam Jan Jun Yi)
Rating: IIB
Length: 148 mins.

The story occurs in a city called Yentown, a place formed by gold seeking
immigrants from everywhere. There gather a nameless young girl because her
mother's death comes to Yentown, a prostitute from Shanghai, Glico, the
young Shanghai god father Lau Leung Gwai, killer Mau Fau and For Fei who
has a crush on Glico......all kinds of different people are linked together
by a story of death, murder, violence, and lies......

----
HK Fluff Of The Week and Box Office | Past reports available at HK Cinema :
hkto...@ugcs.caltech.edu | http://egret0.stanford.edu/hk/reports
http://www.geocities.com/Tokyo/Towers/2038