Thursday, December 31, 2015

Miriam Yeung - Just Right


Miriam Yeung's songs this year has mirrored my own attitudes. At the beginning of the year, she brought us "The Best Debt", a song about a lost friendship. It spoke right to my heart because of my yearning to reconnect with an old friend. Now, Miriam brings us "Just Right" (剛剛好). It has a calming melody composed by Eason Chan, with lyrics written by Lin Xi. Both of them also make an appearance in the MV.

Sometimes fate has a weird way of working things out. Things may not go your way initially, but in the end, it turns out to be "just right". Looking back, I am actually glad that things happened the way it did, even though, for the longest time, I had desperately wished for a different way. But now, I realize how content I am with my current life and it wouldn't be like this if things had happened differently. I no longer hope to change the past, instead I have learned to appreciate how the past has shaped my present. As we get ready to step into the new year, I know that I have finally, and truly, let go of the past and I am excited to move forward.

To everyone, may you find peace and happiness in 2016 and may everything turn out to be just right for you!

Sunday, December 27, 2015

Wu Xin The Monster Killer Theme Song

The theme song for TVB's broadcast of Wu Xin The Monster Killer is "Remember to Forget Me" (記住忘記我) by Alfred Hui.




Saturday, December 12, 2015

Predictions for TVB Awards 2015

Best Actor: Anthony Wong (Lord of Shanghai). I don't think anyone can argue that he wouldn't deserve the TV King title.
Winner: Anthony Wong


Best Actress: Kristal Tin & Nancy Wu (Ghost of Relativity). Could TVB really award dual TV Queens for the first time in history?
Winner: Nancy Wu


Favourite Male Character: Ruco Chan (Captain of Destiny). How do you not give an award to this handsome prince?
Winner: Ruco Chan


Favourite Female Character: Linda Chung (Limelight Years). She probably has the fan base to win this.
Winner: Kristal Tin


Best Supporting Actor: Joel Chan (Captain of Destiny). He seems to be a favourite?
Winner: Willie Wai


Best Supporting Actress: Natalie Tong (Raising the Bar). I honestly have no idea who might win this, so I'll just fill it in with my own choice. Natalie has been such a pleasure to watch in all of her roles in the past few years.
Winner: Elaine Yiu


Most Improved Actor: Tony Hung. According to the "Sandy Yu Rule", either Tony or Priscilla has to walk away with an award, right?
Winner: Tony Hung


Most Improved Actress: Grace Chan. Forget about Captain of Destiny. I think she did great in Raising the Bar.
Winner: Grace Chan


Best Series: Lord of Shanghai.
Winner: Lord of Shanghai


Best Classic Series: War of Genders. The fact that this series just finished airing in the late-night slot will probably give it an edge in the voting.
Winner: The Greed of Man


Best Theme Song: "Sail" by Fred Cheng (Captain of Destiny)
Winner: "Secret of Tears" by Jinny Ng (The Empress of China)

Best Host: Johnson Lee and Pal Sinn (Sze U Tonight)
Winner: Liza Wang, Adam Cheng, Jerry Lamb (Sunday Song Bird)

Best Variety Show and Special Programme: Sze U Tonight
Winner: Dodo Cheng

Best Informative Programme: Not Far But Away
Winner: Big Big World II


See full nomination list


Sunday, December 06, 2015

Overview - The Executioner



Kenny Wong is an executioner who has executed many people. To ensure that his saviour's daughter-in-law (Elaine Yiu) can safely give birth, he arranges for her to live at the home of Maggie Siu, a renowned mid-wife. As a result, he encounters a strange murder case and even uses his executioner's blade to save a young life. Because of this mysterious baby boy, Kenny and Maggie is embroiled into the political battle within the imperial palace. However, this pairing of a cool and a warm personality repeatedly resolve many crisis. They fall in love as they make it through adversity together. Meanwhile, Matt Yeung and Katy Kung, a young couple who grew up together in a brothel house, come to Maggie's home. They beg Kenny to accept Matt as an apprentice executioner. It turns out that Matt has an ulterior motive, which is to escape punishment from a crime. Kenny is undecided. A mysterious magician (Joel Chan) appears and causes everyone's relationships to become complicated. The identity of the baby boy is slowly revealed. At the same time, the death knell has started ringing...


Friday, December 04, 2015

Wednesday, December 02, 2015

Angel in the Making Theme Song

The theme song for Angel in the Making is sung by (surprise!) Jinny Ng, "We Are All Injured" (我們都受傷).




Sunday, November 29, 2015

Overview - Angel in the Making



A class of nurses-to-be are sent to the hospital for clinical training. Among them, Eliza Sam, Moon Lau and Jinny Ng are assigned to work in the "Ward of Hell" with registered nurse Tony Hung as their supervisor. Although Tony, whose nickname is "the God of Death", is an experienced and skilled nurse, he has a sour personality and mysterious background. Everyone at the hospital tries to keep their distance, but the kind-hearted and brave Eliza develops an inexplicable curiosity towards Tony and tries to find opportunities to understand him better. She discovers that he has a story that no one knows about. The devil instructor Tony sows discord among the trainee nurses, causing an intense conflict within the ward. The trainees must face many challenges under pressure, while also preparing for their final exams. Is Tony really an angel or devil? How will the trainees escape his clutches and learn to save themselves and others?


Friday, November 27, 2015

Marco Polo Bridge Incident


The July 7 Incident, also known as the Marco Polo Bridge Incident, marks the start of the Second Sino-Japanese War.

The Marco Polo Bridge is an eleven-arch granite bridge located near Beijing. It was an important strategic location because it was the only link between Beijing and southern regions of China. On the eastern end of the bridge is a walled town, Wanping.

The Boxer Protocol of 1901 permitted foreign nations to station guards along the railroads near Beijing. As a result, the Japanese had between 7000-15,000 troops stationed in the area in 1937.

On July 7, 1937, the Japanese army was conducting nighttime military exercises in the area. They reported that one of their soldiers were missing and requested to enter Wanping to conduct a search. The Chinese denied permission. Shots were fired (it is still not entirely clear who fired the shots).

Later, Japanese infantry tried to forcefully enter Wanping. The Chinese repelled their attacks. Both sides called for reinforcements. In the wee hours on July 8, the Japanese overtook the bridge with tanks and infantry. The Chinese tried to defend the bridge with just 100 men. On July 9, Chinese reinforcements arrived and drove the Japanese off the bridge. The two sides negotiated a ceasefire. They reached an agreement on July 11, in which the Chinese agreed to apologize for the incident and the Japanese agreed to withdraw its troops from the immediate area.

Although the ceasefire was in place, the tensions between the two sides continued to escalate. Both sides sent additional troops into the area. On July 20, the Japanese shelled Wanping. By July 27, the Chinese troops were forced to retreat. The Japanese were able to move in to surround Beijing and Tianjian. Full-scale war broke out on August 9 with the Battle of Shanghai.

This incident was mentioned in the synopsis for Lord of Shanghai, but I'm not sure which episode it actually appears in the drama.


Friday, November 20, 2015

Upcoming Movie: Return of the Cuckoo




Release Date: November 20, 2015
Cast: Julian Cheung, Charmaine Sheh, Nancy Sit, Joe Chen, Michael Tong

After more than a decade of separation, Julian Cheung and Charmaine Sheh reunite in Macau. Charmaine's husband, Steven Ma, and children have died in an accident. Looking back, Julian, who has always deeply loved her, is still silently waiting for her. The pair finally allow the feelings that they have buried in their hearts to come to fruition. At this time, Julian is diagnosed with a terminal illness and his life enters the countdown stage.


Promo #1


Promo #2


Promo #3


Promo #4


Theme Song MV:



Thursday, November 19, 2015

TVB Anniversary Awards 2015 Nomination List

It's the time of the year again for TVB to release their ridiculously long list of nominations for the Anniversary Awards and still manage screw it up in some way.

Best Actor
Evergreen Mak - Come Home Love
Johnson Lee - Officer Geomancer
Edwin Siu - Madam Cutie on Duty
Ben Wong - Raising the Bar
Him Law - Young Charioteers
Kevin Cheng - Eye in the Sky
Joe Ma - Smooth Talker
Damian Lau - Limelight Years
Moses Chan - Ghost of Relativity
Vincent Wong - Brick Slaves
Chin Ka Lok - The Fixer
Louis Cheung - Momentary Lapse of Reason
Ruco Chan - Captain of Destiny
Tony Hung - Captain of Destiny
Bosco Wong - Under the Veil
Bobby Au-Yeung - With or Without You
Anthony Wong - Lord of Shanghai
Wayne Lai - Lord of Shanghai
Kent Tong - Lord of Shanghai
Kenneth Ma - Lord of Shanghai

Best Actress
Priscilla Wong - Madam Cutie on Duty
Elaine Yiu - Raising the Bar
Grace Chan - Raising the Bar
Nancy Sit - My Spiritual Ex-Lover
Sisley Choi - Young Charioteers
Kate Tsui - Smooth Talker
Elena Kong - Smooth Talker
Liza Wang - Limelight Years
Linda Chung - Limelight Years
Kristal Tin - Ghost of Relativity
Nancy Wu - Ghost of Relativity
Selena Li - Brick Slaves
Mandy Wong - The Fixer
Myolie Wu - Every Step You Take
Tavia Yeung - Momentary Lapse of Reason
Rosina Lam - Momentary Lapse of Reason
Eliza Sam - Under the Veil
Joey Meng - With or Without You
Louisa So - Lord of Shanghai
Alice Chan - Lord of Shanghai

Favourite Male Character
Oscar Leung - Officer Geomancer
Edwin Siu - Madam Cutie on Duty
Ben Wong - Raising the Bar
Him Law - Young Charioteers
Kevin Cheng - Eye in the Sky
Damian Lau - Limelight Years
Moses Chan - Ghost of Relativity
Vincent Wong - Brick Slaves
Benjamin Yuen - The Fixer
Louis Cheung - Momentary Lapse of Reason
Matt Yeung - Momentary Lapse of Reason
Ruco Chan - Captain of Destiny
Tony Hung - Captain of Destiny
Bosco Wong - Under the Veil
Joseph Lee - Under the Veil
Bobby Au-Yeung - With or Without You
Anthony Wong - Lord of Shanghai
Wayne Lai - Lord of Shanghai
Kent Tong - Lord of Shanghai
Kenneth Ma - Lord of Shanghai

Favourite Female Character
Priscilla Wong - Madam Cutie on Duty
Mandy Wong - Madam Cutie on Duty
Stephanie Ho - Raising the Bar
Angela Tong - My Spiritual Ex-Lover
Liza Wang - Limelight Years
Linda Chung - Limelight Years
Kristal Tin - Ghost of Relativity
Nancy Wu - Ghost of Relativity
Vivien Yeo - Ghost of Relativity
Selena Li - Brick Slaves
Tavia Yeung - Momentary Lapse of Reason
Rosina Lam - Momentary Lapse of Reason
Grace Chan - Captain of Destiny
Elaine Yiu - Captain of Destiny
Eliza Sam - Under the Veil
Joey Meng - With or Without You
Jacqueline Wong - With or Without You
Louisa So - Lord of Shanghai
Alice Chan - Lord of Shanghai
Jade Leung - Lord of Shanghai

Best Supporting Actor
Owen Cheung - Come Home Love
Jerry Koo - Sour Lady
Raymond Cho - Madam Cutie on Duty
Anderson Junior - Madam Cutie on Duty
Ram Chiang - Raising the Bar
Timothy Cheng - Raising the Bar
Jason Chan - Romantic Repertoire
Tommy Wong - Smooth Talker
William Chak - Limelight Years
Jonathan Wong - Limelight Years
Eddie Kwan - Ghost of Relativity
Pierre Ngo - Ghost of Relativity
Timmy Hung - The Fixer
Lau Kong - Momentary Lapse of Reason
Hugo Wong - Momentary Lapse of Reason
Henry Lee - Captain of Destiny
Joel Chan - Captain of Destiny
Joseph Lee - Under the Veil
Vincent Wong - With or Without You
Willie Wai - Lord of Shanghai

Best Supporting Actress
Helena Law - Officer Geomancer
Rachel Kan - Madam Cutie on Duty
Natalie Tong - Raising the Bar
Stephanie Ho - Raising the Bar
Jeanie Chan - Raising the Bar
Elena Kong - Raising the Bar
Ali Lee - My Spiritual Ex-Lover
Samantha Ko - Eye in the Sky
Michelle Yim - Limelight Years
Vivien Yeo - Ghost of Relativity
Celine Ma - Ghost of Relativity
Mimi Chu - Ghost of Relativity
Tracy Chu - The Fixer
Cilla Kung - Every Step You Take
Elaine Yiu - Captain of Destiny
Kelly Fu - Captain of Destiny
Susan Tse - Captain of Destiny
Katy Kung - Under the Veil
Jacqueline Wong - With or Without You
Jade Leung - Lord of Shanghai

Most Improved Actor
William Chak, Tony Hung, James Ng, Hugo Wong, Matt Yeung, Benjamin Yuen

Most Improved Actress
Grace Chan, Tracy Chu, Rosina Lam, Ali Lee, Jacqueline Wong, Rebecca Zhu

Best Series
All TVB series aired since the last Anniversary Awards, starting with Lady Sour, up to Lord of Shanghai, including Come Home Love, but excluding The Empress of China.

Best Classic Series
Lives of Omission, Brother's Keeper, Triumph in the Skies, The Greed of Man, The Justice of Life, The Final Verdict, Time Before Time, War of Genders

Best Theme Song
Come Home Love - Walk With Love (Fred Cheng)
Lady Sour - Is That You (Ron Ng, Myolie Wu)
Officer Geomancer - Rebel (Fred Cheng)
Madam Cutie on Duty - I'll Always be Yours (Edwin Siu)
Raising the Bar - Me and You (Stephanie Ho); Person in Front (Louis Cheung, Grace Chan)
My Spritual Ex-Lover - Repay Kindness (Nancy Sit, Edwin Siu, Evergreen Mak
Young Charioteers - The Best Time (Jinny Ng)
Eye in the Sky - Truth (Alfred Hui, Hubert Wu)
Romantic Repertoire - Seamless (Anthony Lun, Joyce Koi)
Smooth Talker - Speak (Johnson Lee, Justin Lo)
The Empress of China - Queen (Joey Yung), Secret of Tears (Jinny Ng), Reckless (Linda Chung)
Limelight Years - Gorgeous Turnaround (Liza Wang), Galaxy (Liza Wang), Flashing Appearance (Liza Wang)
Wudang Rules - No Fear (C AllStar)
Master of Destiny - Rumbling Skies Moving Earth (Edwin Siu)
Ghost of Relativity - Daylight (C AllStar)
Brick Slaves - 400 Feet (Edwin Siu)
The Fixer - Maze (Alfred Hui)
Every Step You Take - Angel (Myolie Wu)
Momentary Lapse of Reason - Silent Moon (Louis Cheung)
Captain of Destiny - Sail (Fred Cheng), Next Century (Ruco Chan), A Never-Changing Heart (Linda Chung)
Under the Veil - Unique (Vincy Chan)
With or Without You - I'm Not Good Enough (Linda Chung)
Lord of Shanghai - Age of No Regrets (Alfred Hui)

Best Host
Sidewalk Scientist - Ali Lee, Kaki Leung, Jacqueline Wong, Mayanne Mak, Sammi Cheung, Roxanne Tong
Sze U Tonight - Johnson Lee, Pal Sinn
Sunday Songbird - Liza Wang, Adam Cheng, Jerry Lamb
Am I Healthy? - Lawrence Cheng, Kaki Leung, Steven Cheung
Neighbourhood Gourmet 3 - King Kong, Kitty Yuen
Good Cheap Eats 3 - Maria Cardero, Luk Ho Ming
Helen To-Kyo! - Helen To
Four Amigos Bon Voyage - Kenneth Tsang, Patrick Tse, Wu Fung, Joe Junior
Not Far But Away - Tony Hung
DoDo Goes Shopping - Carol Cheng, Priscilla Wong, Fama, Sammy Sum, Sharon Chan, Fred Cheng, Oscar Leung, Kenneth Ma

Best Variety Show and Special Programme
Sze U Tonight, Sunday Songbird, Street Sorcerers 3, Good Cheap Eats 3, Helen To-Kyo, The Million Dollar Minute, Four Amigos Bon Voyage, Miss Hong Kong Pageant 2015, DoDo Goes Shopping,
The Internet Of Things On TV, TVB Anniversary Gala

Best Informative Programme
Sidewalk Scientist, Am I Healthy?, Big Big World II, World's Greatest Parties, Not Far But Away


TVB Sales Presentation 2016

Long Time No See

Legal Strongman - Liu Kai-chi and Alex Fong return to TVB in this legal thriller.


Alex Fong is well-known inside and outside of the courtroom as an undefeated lawyer. In order to reap greater benefits, he joins Hong Kong's largest Chinese-owned firm. The reserved and introverted Liu Kai-chi is the managing partner of the firm. He faithfully fulfills his responsibilities while secretly cultivating power with an aim for the firm's highest position. With the firm's chairman position open, the two of them fight over life and death to fill the position.

Interest Level: 4.5/5. Big fan of legal thrillers. Some of the trailer sounds eerily similar to HKTV's The Election. 


Triad Leader Under the Line of Fire - Kent Cheng and Kingdom Yuen have been lured back by Producer Leung Choi-Yuen. The three of them last collaborated in King Maker.


The underworld is a battleground for gangsters... A former triad boss has stepped down and is operating a neighbourhood restaurant, but his buddies want to make a comeback! I want to sell tofu pork-belly rice, but you want me to fight again. Brotherhood in this day and age, is there still a say?

Interest Level: 2/5. Looks like a lame gangster comedy. Wished TVB could have used the star power for a harder-hitting drama.


Obligatory Police Series

K9 Cop


He is a police officer who abhors evil and protects the weak. He is a police dog who is loyal, courageous and obedient. He helps him, once a guard dog for the triads, turn over a new leaf. Human and dog become the police force's best team.

Interest Level: 2.5/5. Not the thriller type of police series. 


EU Overtime Mission


The EU's new female sergeant has discovered a portal to travel through time. She thought she could save lives, fight crime, repair her relationship and rewrite history. But history becomes more and more messed up and the situation spins out of control. In the end, how can she reverse the situation?

Interest Level: 3.5/5. Interesting twist to the time-travelling plot that TVB has used too often lately. Reminds me of the film "Edge of Tomorrow".


Misrepresented History

The Last Healer in Forbidden City - Empress Dowager Cixi was obviously a kind, loving woman, right?


The death of the Guangxu Emperor is one of China's historical mysteries. Did Cixi poison him? Was is Yuan Shiki's plot? An act of the Revolutionary Party? Or did he die from purely natural causes? Guangxu's most trusted imperial physician will unravel one of China's greatest mysteries!

Interest Level: 5/5. Excited to delve into the rich historical context of this series! 


Omg, the cast...

Love as a Predatory Affair - No, you are not looking at the variety show section.


Love is like the food chain. At the top, there are the "tall, rich, handsome" and "white, rich, beautiful" who sweep the playing field in the competition for love. At the bottom, there are the "leftover ladies", "poison males" and "poor, short, ugly" who are secretly planning a revolt! This openly secret battle is both ridiculous and hilarious, and also reflective of reality.

Interest Level: 0/5. Zip.


Fashion War - A chance to learn who all the third-tier actresses at TVB are.


A top fashion magazine editor, a god within the fashion industry, has pegged a MK girl as his successor?! The fashion industry appears to be glamorous, but behind the glamour is a dark and ugly arena that is full of schemes. To survive, everyone puts on a fake mask and has ulterior motives.

Interest Level: 1/5. Moses Chan has been so terrible lately. 


Peculiar Taste - Someone certainly had a peculiar taste in choosing the cast.


The golden lotus flower, awarded by the imperial court, is a symbol for a top restaurant. Having it equals to having money, fame and status. He is a food critic from hell who naturally possesses a golden tongue. He is a rising celebrity chef. The two of them are both rivals and friends, competing with their cooking and using taste to determine who is better.

Interest Level: 0/5. Can't decide if the cast is worse or the costumes.


TVB Ran Out of New Ideas

Brother's Keeper II - How much money do you need to give for TVB to make a series about you? Ask Ko Kei Bakery.


"When buying souvenirs in Macau, I only buy from Lo Shun Kei." Edwin Siu and Kristal Tin travel to Japan to find quality ingredients. Facing malicious attacks from their competitors, Edwin and Kristal must make choices. Will they stick to their principles? Or will they take measures to survive in the face of adversity? The challenges start once again...

Interest Level: 3/5. Ruco Chan was the main appeal in the original. 


You From Kitty Star - A spin-off with the original cast of Ghost of Relativity.


In 2015, Ghost of Relativity used brainwaves to explain the existence of ghosts. Through its witty and humorous style, the story of a love triangle between humans and a ghost became popular among the HK audience. Now, the original cast and production team of Ghost of Relativity will make a brand new comedy "You From Kitty Star". It will use a half-scientific theory to explain cat-aliens who come to Earth. Their contact with people on Earth will lead to many surprising stories.

Interest Level: 1.5/5. Ghost of Relativity was aptly named. It was good relative to the other crap series. That doesn't mean it needs a spin-off.


House of Spirits - A remake of 1980 TVB drama Don't Look Now.


Using supernatural and fantasy in a relaxed way, this series conveys how modern people are focused on their jobs and forget about the value of family. A pair of happy ghosts who love helping people lend their superpowers to help a big brother who strives to protect his younger siblings and link the family together with love. A heart-warming comedy with surprises, joy, laughter and tears.

Interest Level: 2/5. The trailer looks really stupid. 


Now I've Ran Out of Creative Category Titles

Presumed Accidents - Presumably the Lawrence Ng-Sisley Choi pairing is an accident?


An "accident" causes a father to be separated from his daughter, but through another series of "accidents", their fates are brought back together. Are "accidents" purely coincidences or a carefully arranged conspiracy?

Interest Level: 4/5. I like the dark and shady feel. 


A Fist Within Four Walls


The Kowloon Walled City in the 1950s was an unpoliced area and a source for crime. "Eight Extremities Fist" is a powerful style that forces close-range attacks which are rapid in succession and able to change quickly. Two youths who are trained in martial arts search for the truth of their father's murder, while carrying out his last wish to drive out evil from the Walled City!

Interest Level: 3.5/5. Only for Ruco Chan and Nancy Wu. Grace Wong and Moon Lau look so out of place in the trailer.


3 of Honour - A TVB-Mainland collaboration, featuring Wong Cho Lam and Linda Chung. Wong Jing is the producer, so be ready for god-awful dubbing again.


Interest Level: 1/5. We all know how Wong Jing's last production turned out to be. 


Friday, November 06, 2015

TVB Calendar 2016

Cover


January - Fashion War


February - Come Home Love


March - Blue Veins


April - Short End of the Stick


May - Presumed Accidents


June - K9 Cop


July - House of Spirits


August - Olympics Special


September - Brother's Keeper II


October - The Last Healer in Forbidden City


November - A Fist Within Four Walls


December - Variety Shows


Credits to Jolly Star.Starphoto

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

"Every Man's Heart Has a Priscilla Wong"



Recently, a netizen wrote a post entitled "Every Man's Heart Has a Priscilla Wong" (translated below):

I think every man's heart has a Priscilla Wong
A little tomboyish, a little erratic, you and her are good friends
Will eat dinner together, eat late-night snacks together, go on vacations together
But will never spark love with

You and her seem to have some inexplicable resonance
Other people will always think that you two are a couple
But in your heart, you know it is impossible
When friends ask,
You will often say "There are some good feelings, but I only treat her as a friend"

But ask your heart
You do like her a little bit
But you also know
She does not like you at all

You two enjoy this type of relationship
The closeness of boyfriend/girlfriend, but without the responsibilities of boyfriend/girlfriend

Until one day Priscilla Wong gets together with Edwin Siu
Then you realize
"Damn, I actually like that bitch Priscilla Wong"

But unfortunately, you have missed the hundredth opportunity to be with Priscilla Wong
You can only continue to be pretend to be good friends in front of everyone
Sometimes you will banter with her and she will banter with you
But you both know that really, something has changed

A rare work opportunity comes up
You can hold Priscilla Wong's hand once again

A few days later
You look at the newspaper
And see the pictures
You smile
You cry

That friend that you secret love, but know you will never have the opportunity to be with. That friend that you are willing to do anything for, but will never ask for anything in return. That friend that you hope will never leave your side, so you can be their guardian angel.

I've already had one Priscilla Wong in my heart. I hope there will not be another.


Sunday, October 25, 2015

With or Without You Theme Song

The theme song for With or Without You is "I'm Not Good Enough" (我不够好), by Linda Chung.



Theme Song MV:



Lord of Shanghai Theme Song

The theme song for Lord of Shanghai is "Age of No Regrets" (歲月無悔), by Alfred Hui,




Friday, October 23, 2015

Overview - With or Without You



Eminent Northern Song Dynasty writer, Bobby Au-Yeung, is unable to forget about his late wife and hence, turns a blind eye to his sister-in-law, Joey Meng's active pursuit of him. However, the food lover in him is eventually swayed by Joey's braised pork dish and they finally get married. Bobby thought life would be perfect after marriage, but a slew of family problems is making his head spin! On one hand, he must worry if his sister, Jacqueline Wong, is being tricked by the flirty scholar, Vincent Wong. On the other hand, he is concerned that his other sister, Harriet Yeung, is still hung up on Tyson Chak,who is now the husband of a "lioness" wife, Alice Chan. On top of that, his son does not accept Joey as his step-mother and always makes a fuss about it. Besides hi family problems, Bobby also has to deal with the politics in the imperial court. He is constantly engaging in a battle of wits against the opposing minister, Pal Sinn. Later on, Bobby is embroiled into a treasonous plot by a Liao spy (Sire Ma). Sire purposely sows discord between Bobby and Joey. Soon after, Joey goes missing...


Thursday, October 22, 2015

Overview - Lord of Shanghai



A young, red-blooded Kenneth Ma arrives on the bustling Shanghai scene alone. He soon becomes sworn brothers with small-time gangster Wayne Lai. Together, they build an empire using their fists. Kenneth’s intelligence and resourcefulness quickly earns the admiration of top triad leader Kent Tong. Kent gives Kenneth the task of seizing the opium business that he has long coveted. Relying on Wayne’s military strength, Kenneth is able to complete the mission.

Time passes quickly and a new government has taken office. The scope of the joint business between Anthony Wong (older version of Kenneth), Wayne and Kent has expanded continuously. The three of them have become Shanghai’s most powerful tycoons, but they are still feuding over the title of “#1 Tycoon”. Although Anthony’s career is thriving, he cannot win the love of famous Peking opera performer Myolie Wu. He settles for another fadan Louisa So, whom he eventually marries.

Meanwhile, dangers are lurking within the seemingly peaceful Shanghai as the Japanese plot their invasion of China. Union leader Pierre Ngo’s fight for the people deeply touches Anthony. Following the July 7 Incident, Anthony contributes his efforts and money to help his country. The present situation causes Anthony and Wayne to drift apart. Their brotherhood breaks down completely when Wayne decides to betray his country. After the war and the liberation of Shangahi, Anthony has risen from a nameless nobody to a legendary lord of Shanghai. However, he is betrayed by his closest disciple Ron Ng, who accuses him of being a traitor. Anthony is forced to leave everything behind and escape to Hong Kong, retreating to a plain life…


Wednesday, October 14, 2015

With or Without You Promo Clips

Promo #1


Promo #2


Promo #3


Promo #4


Promo #5


Promo #6


Promo #7


Promo #8


Promo #9


Promo #10


Promo #11


Promo #12


Promo #13


Promo #14


Trailer



Sunday, September 27, 2015

Overview - Under the Veil



Appearances are an illusion, reality is seen in the heart. Even if people have similar appearances, their minds can lead them to different actions and results. Through three folk tales, Under the Veil will bring out thought-provoking messages about the true meaning of life.

Hairpin Exchange
During the Song Dynasty, the Crown Prince (Stanley Cheung) suspects that one of the ministers is plotting treason. He secretly sends a spy (male Kristal Tin) to infiltrate the Liao state and collect evidence. The spy's twin sister (female Kristal) volunteers to act as her brother's double while he is away. Although they fool everyone else, the brother's wife grows suspicious. Kristal uses various methods to resolve her predicaments. At the same time, she re-encounters her ex-lover Raymond Wong, which throws her heart into upheaval. However, Raymond has suffered from amnesia after a serious illness and has forgotten everything from the past. The Crown Prince suddenly goes missing and a spirit bird (Katy Kung) delivers a message to Kristal's brother. The search for the Crown Prince is full of climactic moments. Kristal suffers a huge blow, which puts her life in danger. Raymond finally remembers everything and is heartbroken...




Justice Luk
When a flood in the capital damages the Ten Kings Temple, the scholar Wayne Lai does everything he can to save the statute of Justice Luk (Willie Wai), thereby forming a special bond with the Justice. After Wayne miraculously experiences resurrection after death, he returns home to his wife Sonija Kwok, but finds that they have nothing to say to each other. Wayne visits a brothel to drown his sorrows and meets a well-known prostitute (Sonija II), whom he instantly clicks with. Remarkably, Wayne asks the Justice to switch the heads of his wife and the prostitute. But later, Wayne finds himself missing his wife. Suddenly, a fire breaks out at the brothel and Wayne desperately tries to save his wife. He asks the Justice to switch their heads back, but runs into many difficulties...




Chasing Fish
Bosco Wong's family had fallen into financial trouble, yet the date of his arranged marriage to Eliza Sam is approaching. He travels to her home to explain the situation. Along the way, he saves a carp (Eliza II). Grateful towards her saviour, the carp secretly follows Bosco via a water route. At Eliza's house, the penniless Bosco is looked down upon and only provided with a shack to stay in. In order to get closer to Bosco, the carp transforms herself into Eliza and spends time with him at the shack. They slowly develop feelings for each other. Bosco unintentionally becomes a local hero after standing up against injustice for the villagers and Eliza suddenly shows interest in him again. Fearful that she will lose Bosco, the carp transforms herself into Eliza and causes trouble in her family. No one can differentiate between the real and fake Eliza. The carp willingly accepts heaven's test to prove her true love towards Bosco...




Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Sunday, September 20, 2015

Captain of Destiny Theme Song

The theme song for Captain of Destiny is "Sail" (揚帆), sung by Fred Cheng.



The ending theme song is "Next Century" (下世紀), by Ruco Chan.


The sub-theme song is performed by Linda Chung, named "A Never-Changing Heart" (一顆不變的心)



Tuesday, September 08, 2015

StarHub TVB Awards 2015

The annual StarHub TVB Awards are here! Voting has started and will end on October 23 (You can vote here). This year is a hard year to pick for, and that's not because there are too many good candidates. Nonetheless, here are my picks:

Favourite Actress


Can we give a dual award to Nancy Wu and Kristal Tin just for this scene?

Runner-up: I'm impressed with how natural Grace Chan was in Raising the Bar.
Least favourite: Don't even get me started on Linda Chung in Tiger Cubs II.


Favourite Actor


Ruco Chan did an exceptional job in Eye in the Sky, so I'm picking him even though he's nominated for a different series.

Runner-up: Ben Wong nailed the mannerisms of a barrister.
Least favourite: Moses Chan, for the repetitive and uninteresting roles he had this year.


Favourite Supporting Actress


I've really like Natalie Tong's subtle performances in her last few dramas.

Runner-up: Elena Kong was a rare highlight in Smooth Talker.
Least favourite: Ivana Wong over-exaggerates in almost everything I've seen her in.


Favourite Supporting Actor


Vincent Wong was solid and had great chemistry with Josie Ho in Tomorrow is Another Day.

Runner-up: Raymond Cho deserves some recognition.
Least favourite: Can't decide between expressionless Benjamin Yuen and over-the-top Oscar Leung.


Favourite Female Character


Elena Kong's character in Smooth Talker was entertaining.

Runner-up: Giselle (Grace Chan) is actually very sweet if you just ignore the sexual harassment case.
Least favourite: Madam Chung. Do I need to explain further?


Favourite Male Character


I have a good feeling about Ruco Chan's prince role in Captain of Destiny.

Runner-up: Pass.
Least favourite: Wong Cho Lam was too excessive in Come On Cousin.


Favourite Drama


Eye in the Sky, even though it could have been so much better.

Runner-up: I surprisingly liked Limelight Years. It was a soothing series to watch.
Least favourite: Watching Tiger Cubs II felt like 1.5 hours of torture every week.


Favourite On-Screen Couple


I guess Edwin Siu and Priscilla Wong did have chemistry in what little scenes I saw of them.

Runner-up: I can't even pick a second couple that I liked.
Least favourite: Joe Ma and Linda Chung?! Oh my gawddddd!


Favourite Theme Song


None of the theme songs were particularly memorable.

Runner-up: As above.
Least favourite: Fred Cheng's voice is not really suited for the style of the Officer Geomancer theme song.


Favourite Variety Show Categories
No picks for the variety show categories, but special shout-out to Not Far But Away, which gave the audience some perspective into North Korea.


Wednesday, September 02, 2015

Overview - Captain of Destiny



While chasing a thief on a speedboat, Cheung Chau police officer Grace Chan is caught in a waterspout and brought back in time to the Qing Dynasty. She meets Tony Hung, a pirate of the Red Flag Fleet, and Ruco Chan, the 11th imperial prince. Grace uses historical facts from her e-book to broker peace between the two groups. However, Lam Lok Lam, the captain of the Red Flag Fleet, and his wife Maggie Siu are suspicious of this girl who came from nowhere. Grace's ability to predict the future attracts the affections of Tony and Ruco, leading to a messy entanglement of love and friendship. Grace also meets her great-grandparents Mandy Wong and Joel Chan. The antics of this quarrelsome couple leaves Grace laughing and crying at the same time. Tony is suddenly embroiled in the power struggle at the palace, while Ruco is unwittingly being manipulated by the consorts Elaine Yiu and Susan Tse. Ruco falls victim in the palace struggle and decides to give up everything for love. He deserts the army and leaves with Kelly Fu, and later encounters the Siam pirate captain, Oceane Zhu. The waterspout reappears in the midst of a solar eclipse. While trying to help Grace, Tony is brought to the future too...


Captain of Destiny Promo Clips


Saturday, August 29, 2015

Where in the World is Tony Hung?


As a travelogue host, Tony Hung has visited many places in the world. From the war-torn Middle East to the reclusive North Korea to the southern most continent, Antarctica, Tony has been there.

Here's a look at where in the world Tony has travelled to:

Antarctica, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Brunei, China, Costa Rica, France, Gaza, Georgia, Germany, Guam (USA), Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Macau, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, North Korea, Norway, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Vietnam


Last updated: July 20, 2018.


Friday, August 21, 2015

Overview - Every Step You Take



Due to an accident, magazine photographer Myolie Wu lost both her parents and her sight. Nonetheless, for someone who loves beauty and watching television series, Myolie does not give up on herself. With the support of her boyfriend Jonathan Cheung and her guide dog, she gradually regains her self-confidence. The advertising slogan, "Love is omnipotent", becomes her personal motto and pulls her through her pain. Surprisingly, the creator of this advertisement, Moses Chan, now lives next to her. Moses's addiction to his work has caused him to lose his friends and colleagues. Even his apprentice, Elaine Yiu, has called it quits. Feeling lost, Moses decides to take a long break. He moves back to his old home and reconnects with his old friend, Evergreen Mak. Returning to a familiar place allows Moses to start anew and gives him a chance to learn more about himself. Myolie is thrown into depression again when her boyfriend falls in love with someone else. Luckily, Moses is there as her guardian angel. The two of them, with vastly different personalities, generate love sparks. Those who think they can see discover their blind spots, while those who are blind see brightness.


Every Step You Take Promo Clips


Thursday, August 20, 2015

Momentary Lapse of Reason Theme Song

Louis Cheung performs the theme song for Momentary Lapse of Reason. It is called "Silent Moon" (月無聲).



Opening MV:



Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Overview - Momentary Lapse of Reason



Louis Cheung appears to be a cop who can easily betray his own dignity and accept bribes. While investigating a human trafficking case, he meets Tavia Yeung, a woman who has taken a vow of celibacy. Tavia and her friend, Lin Xia Wei, had been kidnapped when they were young, thus, they hate human traffickers. They equally hate corrupt public servants, with the exception of Louis's colleague, Matt Yeung, whose upright and honest character catches Tavia's eye and she even falls in love with him. Louis and Matt are initially polar opposites, but after Louis's acceptance of a bribe causes the death of a witness, it starts to touch his conscience. However, at the time, the police and the underworld each had their own unbreakable, unwritten laws. Matt is demoted amidst the power struggle of businessman Lau Kong and detective Timothy Cheng. It puts his relationship with Tavia to the test. Seeing all of this, Louis's heart aches, but all he can do is stay silently by Tavia's side and secretly hope that he can make up for his past mistakes...


Momentary Lapse of Reason Promo Clips


Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Saturday, August 15, 2015

Dr. Marcus Kwok

TVB's go-to doctor... Marcus Kwok (郭田葰).

Marcus joined TVB after participating the 2009 Mr. Hong Kong contest. Prior to that, he had worked as an actual emergency room doctor in Australia. He has played in a doctor role 30 times (and counting).

32. Destination Nowhere


31. Brother's Keeper II


31. Between Love & Desire


30. Captain of Destiny (veterinarian)


29. Brick Slaves


28. The Fixer


27. Wudang Rules


26. My Spiritual Ex-Lover


25. Tiger Cubs II


24. Come On Cousin


23. Tomorrow is Another Day


22. Coffee Cat Mama


21. Bounty Lady


20. The Hippocratic Crush II


19. Will Power


Other appearances as a doctor:
18. Brother's Keeper
17. Sniper Standoff
16. Triumph in the Skies II
15. Slow Boat Home
14. Reality Check
13. Missing You
12. The Last Steep Ascent
11. Gloves Come Off
10. The Hippocratic Crush
9.   Let It Be Love
8.   Forensic Heroes III
7.   Men With No Shadows
6.   Wax and Wane
5.   Be Home for Dinner
4.   Yes Sir, Sorry Sir
3.   No Regrets
2.   Some Day
1.   The Mysteries of Love

Marcus will portray something different in the upcoming drama Trainee Angel... a nurse.