TVB Anniversary Awards 2020 - Nomination List

The TVB Anniversary Awards 2020 will take place on January 10. Here's the nomination list:

Best Actor
Lau Dan - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold

Eddie Cheung - Of Greed and Ants

Edwin Siu - Of Greed and Ants

Ben Wong - Of Greed and Ants

Matthew Ho - The Dripping Sauce

Raymond Wong - Forensic Heroes IV

Matt Yeung - Airport Strikers

Joel Chan - Brutally Young

Shaun Tam - Brutally Young

Hubert Wu - The Exorcist's Meter 2.0

Mark Ma - Life After Death

Moses Chan - Death By Zero

Wayne Lai - Death By Zero

Owen Cheung - Al Cappuccino 

Sammy Leung - Ratman to the Rescue

Chris Lai - Go! Go! Go! Operation C9

Him Law - The Witness

Willie Wai - The Witness

Raymond Lam - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Kenneth Ma - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Michael Miu - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Benjamin Yuen - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Vincent Wong - Legal Mavericks 2020

Joey Law - Hong Kong Love Stories

Best Actress

Mandy Lam - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold

Koni Lui - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold

Joyce Tang - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold

Jeannie Chan - Of Greed and Ants

Elaine Yiu - Of Greed and Ants

Rebecca Zhu - The Dripping Sauce

Alice Chan - Forensic Heroes IV

Selena Li - Forensic Heroes IV

Roxanne Tong - Airport Strikers

Shiga Lin - Life After Death

Priscilla Wong - Life After Death

Katy Kung - Death By Zero

Ali Lee - Death By Zero

Crystal Fung - Al Cappuccino 

Samantha Ko - Al Cappuccino 

Kelly Cheung - The Witness

Mandy Wong - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Sisley Choi - Legal Mavericks 2020

Favourite Female Character

Joyce Tang - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold

Jeannie Chan - Of Greed and Ants

Elaine Yiu - Of Greed and Ants

Rebecca Zhu - The Dripping Sauce

Sharon Chan - Forensic Heroes IV

Alice Chan - Forensic Heroes IV

Selena Li - Forensic Heroes IV

Regina Ho - Airport Strikers

Gloria Tang - Airport Strikers

Vivien Yeo - Brutally Young

Zoie Tam - The Exorcist's Meter 2.0

Yoyo Chen - Life After Death

Shiga Lin - Life After Death

Priscilla Wong - Life After Death

Elena Kong - Death By Zero

Ali Lee - Death By Zero

Angel Chiang - Al Cappuccino

Crystal Fung - Al Cappuccino 

Samantha Ko - Al Cappuccino 

Winki Lai - Al Cappuccino 

Kelly Cheung - The Witness

Pinky Cheung - The Witness

Sisley Choi - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Mandy Wong - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Katy Kung - Hong Kong Love Stories

Venus Wong - Hong Kong Love Stories

Favourite Male Character

Eddie Cheung - Of Greed and Ants

Edwin Siu - Of Greed and Ants

Matthew Ho - The Dripping Sauce

James Ng - The Dripping Sauce

Raymond Wong - Forensic Heroes IV

Matt Yeung - Airport Strikers

Joel Chan - Brutally Young

Shaun Tam - Brutally Young

Hubert Wu - The Exorcist's Meter 2.0

Mark Ma - Life After Death

Moses Chan - Death By Zero

Wayne Lai - Death By Zero

Owen Cheung - Al Cappuccino 

Brian Chu - Al Cappuccino 

John Chiang - Al Cappuccino 

Vincent Wong - Al Cappuccino 

Chris Lai - Go! Go! Go! Operation C9

Him Law - The Witness

Willie Wai - The Witness

Raymond Lam - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Kenneth Ma - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Michael Miu - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Benjamin Yuen - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Paul Chun - Legal Mavericks 2020

Joey Law - Hong Kong Love Stories

Best Supporting Actor

Tony Hung - Of Greed and Ants

Hugo Ng - The Dripping Sauce

James Ng - The Dripping Sauce

Fred Cheng - Forensic Heroes IV

Jonathan Cheung - Forensic Heroes IV

Bob Cheung - Forensic Heroes IV

Carlo Ng - Airport Strikers

Hugo Wong - Airport Strikers

Ram Chiang - The Exorcist's Meter 2.0

Stephen Wong - Life After Death

Timothy Cheng - Death By Zero

Brian Tse - Death By Zero

Brian Chu - Al Cappuccino 

Jack Hui - Al Cappuccino 

John Chiang - Al Cappuccino 

Henry Lee - Al Cappuccino 

Tsui Wing - Al Cappuccino 

Kent Cheng - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Benz Hui - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Wu Fung - Legal Mavericks 2020

King Lam - Hong Kong Love Stories

Jason Pai - Hong Kong Love Stories

Best Supporting Actress

Andrea So - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold

Lenna Yeung - The Dripping Sauce

Sharon Chan - Forensic Heroes IV

Roxanne Tong - Forensic Heroes IV

Gloria Tang - Airport Strikers

Moon Lau - The Exorcist's Meter 2.0

Zoie Tam - The Exorcist's Meter 2.0

Yoyo Chen - Life After Death

Amy Fan - Death By Zero

Kamen Kong - Death By Zero

Elena Kong - Death By Zero

Helena Law - Death By Zero

Angel Chiang - Al Cappuccino

Kelly Fu - Al Cappuccino 

Winki Lai - Al Cappuccino 

Pinky Cheung - The Witness

Mayanne Mak - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Lesley Chiang - Legal Mavericks 2020

Suet Nay - Legal Mavericks 2020

Mimi Kung - Hong Kong Love Stories

Most Improved Actress

Hera Chan, Angel Chiang, Regina Ho, Kamen Kong, Iris Lam, Bella Lam, Moon Lau, Tiffany Lau, Andrea So, Gloria Tang, Joey Thye

Most Improved Actor

Brian Chu, Arnold Kwok, Patrick Lam, Joey Law, Mark Ma, Ricco Ng, James Ng, Karl Ting, Brian Tse, Telford Wong, Dickson Yu

Best TV Partnership

Kenneth Ma, Hubert Wu - The Exorcist's Meter 2.0

Priscilla Wong, Shiga Lin, Yoyo Chen - Life After Death

Moses Chan, Timothy Cheng - Death By Zero

Wayne Lai, Elena Kong - Death By Zero

Vincent Wong, Owen Cheung, Brian Chu - Al Cappuccino 

Owen Cheung, Sisley Choi - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Maria Cordero, Luk Ho Ming - Good Cheap Eats 9

Pakho Chau, Benjamin Yuen - The PakhoBen Outdoor Show

Dodo Cheng, Fama - Do Did Eat

Elena Kong, Siu Sau Heung - Lady Cook

Liza Wang, Sammy Leung, Dickson Yu - Liza's Online

Steve Lee, Helen Tam - The Ahistoric Grandpa Cooking Show

Chris Lai, Sharon Chan - Happy Dinner Together

Best Series

Come Home Love: Lo and Behold

Of Greed and Ants

The Dripping Sauce

Forensic Heroes IV

Airport Strikers

Brutally Young

The Exorcist's Meter 2.0

Life After Death

Death By Zero

On-Lie Game

Al Cappuccino 

Ratman to the Rescue

Go! Go! Go! Operation C9

The Witness

Line Walker: Bull Fight

Legal Mavericks 2020

Hong Kong Love Stories

Best Theme Song

Best Host

Luk Ho Ming, Crystal Fung, Bella Lam, Joey Thye, Maggie Wong, Leonard Cheng - Young and Restless

Mayanne Mak, Crystal Fung, Bowie Cheung, Tiffany Lau, Regina Ho, Judy Kwong, Eunice Chan, Honey Ho, Sonya Chan - Sidewalk Scientist 

Nancy Sit, Raymond Cho, Fred Cheng, Kayee Tam - Cantopop at 50

Bob Cheung, Sammi Cheung - Neighborhood Treasures (Sr. 8)

Maria Cordero, Luk Ho Ming - Good Cheap Eats 9

Pakho Chau, Benjamin Yuen - The PakhoBen Outdoor Show

Dodo Cheng, Fama - Do Did Eat

Jack Wu, Kirby Lam, Phoebe Pang - How to Buy a House

Elena Kong, Siu Sau Heung - Lady Cook

Liza Wang, Sammy Leung, Dickson Yu - Liza's Online

Tony Hung - Life on the COVID Map

Telford Wong, Danny Hung, Nicklas Lam, Enson Lau, Antonio Ng - Homegrown Flavours

Steve Lee, Helen Tam - The Ahistoric Grandpa Cooking Show

Chris Lai, Sharon Chan - Happy Dinner Together

Amigo Chiu, Sammi Cheung - Bong Bong, Amigo!

Best Non-Drama Programme

Big City Shop, All Things Girl, Kids, Think Big, Scoop, Own Sweet Home, Young and Restless, Cantopop at 50, JSG Awards Presentation 2019, 2020 Fortune Show, Arabian Days & Nights, Neighborhood Treasures, Sidewalk Scientist Coronavirus Special, Solo Road Trip, Inspiring Journeys, Hipster Tour Spain & Portugal, My Life of Living Dangerously, The PakhoBen Outdoor Show, Do Did Eat, Homemade Therapy, Breathe in the Forest, Savoury Taiwan, How to Buy a House, Lady Cook, Liza's Online, Miss Hong Kong Pageant 2020, Solo World, Life on the COVID Map, Homegrown Flavours, The Ahistoric Grandpa Cooking Show, Taiwan Fun 101, Happy Dinner Together, Bong Bong, Amigo!, Europe Drive-In, The Locked Down Chefs Go Partying, 5G Rewrites Our Stories, TVB 53rd Anniversary Gala, Big Big Shopping Nite, Triumph in the Skies Contest, The Voice 2020

My Favourite TVB Drama - Malaysia

Ratman to the Rescue

Maidens United

Of Greed and Ants

The Dripping Sauce

Forensic Heroes IV

Airport Strikers

Brutally Young

The Exorcist's Meter 2.0

Flying Tiger II

Life After Death

Death By Zero

On-Lie Game

Al Cappuccino

Go! Go! Go! Operation C9

Love of a Forgotten Century

The Witness

Line Walker; Bull Fight

Legal Mavericks 2020

Hong Kong Love Stories

Come Home Love: Lo and Behold

My Favourite TVB Actor - Malaysia

Sammy Leung - Ratman to the Rescue

Eddie Cheung - Of Greed and Ants

Edwin Siu - Of Greed and Ants

Ben Wong - Of Greed and Ants

Matthew Ho - The Dripping Sauce

Raymond Wong - Forensic Heroes IV

Matt Yeung - Airport Strikers

Shaun Tam - Brutally Young

Joel Chan - Brutally Young

Hubert Wu - The Exorcist's Meter 2.0

Bosco Wong - Flying Tiger II

Ron Ng - Flying Tiger II

Mark Ma - Life After Death

Wayne Lai - Death By Zero

Moses Chan - Death By Zero

Owen Cheung - Al Cappuccino 

Chris Lai - Go! Go! Go! Operation C9

Kevin Cheng - Love of a Forgotten Century

Him Law - The Witness

Willie Wai - The Witness

Raymond Lam - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Michael Miu - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Kenneth Ma - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Benjamin Yuen - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Vincent Wong - Legal Mavericks 2020

Joey Law - Hong Kong Love Stories

Lau Dan - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold

My Favourite TVB Actress - Malaysia

Elaine Yiu - Of Greed and Ants

Jeannie Chan - Of Greed and Ants

Rebecca Zhu - The Dripping Sauce

Selena Li - Forensic Heroes IV

Alice Chan - Forensic Heroes IV

Roxanne Tong - Airport Strikers

Priscilla Wong - Life After Death

Shiga Lin - Life After Death

Ali Lee - Death By Zero

Katy Kung - Death By Zero

Samantha Ko - Al Cappuccino 

Crystal Fung - Al Cappuccino 

Kelly Cheung - The Witness

Mandy Wong - Line Walker: Bull Fight

Sisley Choi - Legal Mavericks 2020

Koni Lui - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold

Joyce Tang - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold

Mandy Lam - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold

TVB Sales Presentation 2021

Shadow of Justice 

 

Big White Duel II 

 

Children's Hospital 

Seven Princesses 

Life Exchange Truth

Superheroes

Plan B 

Barrack O'Karma 2

Legal Mavericks 2020 

AI Rhapsody 

 

Beauty and the Boss 

 

Hong Kong Love Stories

 

The Forgotten Day

Murder Diary

 

Armed Reaction 2021

Predictions for TVB Anniversary Awards 2019

My predictions for the TVB Anniversary Awards. See nomination list here.

Best Actor: Kenneth Ma (Big White Duel)

TVB can't possible justify giving Kenneth a fourth Favourite Male Character award and promoting someone else over him. This year should finally be Kenneth's turn. Will he have a shocked face when his name is announced?


Best Actress: Kara Hui (The Defected)

Selena Li would have been the likely winner if not for her lack of a contract. Kara deserves the award in her right and would be a safe choice, since no one will dispute her acting abilities over Selena's.


Favourite Male Character: Joel Chan (Barrack O'Karma)

A consolation prize for losing out on Best Actor, which is not bad for Joel's first leading role.


Favourite Female Character: Rebecca Zhu (Wonder Women)

The conventional guess would be Selena as consolation for losing Best Actress, but TVB can be very petty about contracts. TVB has made Rebecca a blackhorse winner before, so they could make her the surprise winner of the night again.


Best Supporting Actress: Samantha Ko (Barrack O'Karma)

TVB has been steadily promoting Samantha and giving her more leading roles, so they could give her this award in a year where the competition is weak and she participated in a popular drama.


Best Supporting Actor: Matthew Ho (Big White Duel)

Matthew is a rising star and with no strong candidates in this category this year, he has a chance at grabbing this award.


Most Improved Actress: Kelly Cheung

Kelly received praise for her performance in Big White Duel and has already been promoted to lead actress in two upcoming dramas.


Most Improved Actor: Karl Ting

Karl is the latest "fresh meat" at TVB and has received a lot of exposure on variety shows.


Favourite TV Partnership: Joel Chan and Selena Li (Barrack O'Karma)

The pairing is undoubtedly very popular and they are set to film a sequel, so Selena won't go home completely empty-handed.


Best Series: Big White Duel

While Barrack O'Karma was an unexpected hit, Big White Duel still bested it in ratings and was the bigger production, which TVB tends to favor for Best Series.


Best Theme Song: Can You Hear (Kayee Tam)

This year's beneficiary of endless loop effect (also known as the "越難越愛" effect).

TVB Inventory Levels

The number of outstanding series by artist
As of January 1, 2020

Legend
Blue = airing date schedule
Yellow = filming completed (2018)
Orange = filming completed (2019)
Green = currently filming
White = unconfirmed
Italics = Shaw Brothers production

TVB Anniversary Awards 2019 - Nomination List

The TVB Anniversary Awards 2019 will take place on January 12, 2020. Here is the nomination list:

Best Actor
Philip Keung - The Defected
Ben Wong - The Defected
Benjamin Yuen - The Defected
Matt Yeung - My Commissioned Lover
Roger Kwok - Big White Duel
Kenneth Ma - Big White Duel
Edwin Siu - Our Unwinding Ethos
Owen Cheung - Justice Bao: The First Year
Shaun Tam - Justice Bao: The First Year
Raymond Cho - Girlie Days
Johnson Lee - Girlie Days
Kent Cheng - My Life as Loan Shark
Chris Lai - My Life as Loan Shark
Joel Chan - Barrack O'Karma
Hugo Ng - Finding Her Voice
Jonathan Cheung - The Man Who Kills Troubles
Vincent Wong - The Man Who Kills Troubles
Pakho Chau - Wonder Women
Raymond Wong - Wonder Women
Tony Hung - Handmaidens United

Best Actress
Adia Chan - The Ghetto-Fabulous Lady
Sisley Choi - The Defected
Kara Hui - The Defected
Grace Wong - The Defected
Samantha Ko - My Commissioned Lover
Kelly Cheung - Big White Duel
Ali Lee - Big White Duel
Natalie Tong - Big White Duel
Alice Chan - As Time Goes By
Rosina Lam - Our Unwinding Ethos
Nancy Wu - Justice Bao: The First Year
Elaine Yiu - Justice Bao: The First Year
Kristal Tin - Girlie Days
Maggie Siu - My Life as Loan Shark
Mandy Wong - My Life as Loan Shark
Selena Li - Barrack O'Karma
Sharon Chan - The Man Who Kills Troubles
Rebecca Zhu - Wonder Women
Miriam Yeung - Wonder Women
Roxanne Tong - Handmaidens United

Favourite Male Character
Kalok Chow - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Jack Hui - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Ricco Ng - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Philip Keung - The Defected
Oscar Leung - The Defected
Ben Wong - The Defected
Benjamin Yuen - The Defected
Matthew Ho - Big White Duel
Roger Kwok - Big White Duel
Kenneth Ma - Big White Duel
Joey Law - Girlie Days
Joel Chan - Barrack O'Karma
Ram Chiang - Finding Her Voice
Chung King Fai - Finding Her Voice
Hugo Ng - Finding Her Voice
Savio Tsang - Finding Her Voice
Jonathan Cheung - The Man Who Kills Troubles
Vincent Wong - The Man Who Kills Troubles
Pakho Chau - Wonder Women
Raymond Wong - Wonder Women
Tony Hung - Wonder Women

Favourite Female Character
Mandy Lam - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Koni Lui - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Joyce Tang - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Kamen Kong - The Ghetto-Fabulous Lady
Sisley Choi - The Defected
Kara Hui - The Defected
Grace Wong - The Defected
Samantha Ko - My Commissioned Lover
Kelly Cheung - Big White Duel
Ali Lee - Big White Duel
Natalie Tong - Big White Duel
Rosina Lam - Our Unwinding Ethos
Elaine Yiu - Justice Bao: The First Year
Mandy Wong - My Life as Loan Shark
Selena Li - Barrack O'Karma
Mimi Kung - Finding Her Voice
Sharon Chan - The Man Who Kills Troubles
Alice Chan - Wonder Women
Rebecca Zhu - Wonder Women
Miriam Yeung - Wonder Women

Best Supporting Actress
Andrea So - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Dada Wong - I Bet Your Pardon
Jeannie Chan - The Ghetto-Fabulous Lady
Kamen Kong - The Ghetto-Fabulous Lady
Gloria Tang - The Defected
Ashley Chu - Big White Duel
Crystal Fung - Big White Duel
Stitch Yu - As Time Goes By
Angel Chiang - Our Unwinding Ethos
Moon Lau - Our Unwinding Ethos
Kelly Fu - Justice Bao: The First Year
Katy Kung - Justice Bao: The First Year
Iris Lam - Girlie Days
Claire Yiu - Girlie Days
Candice Chiu - Barrack O'Karma
Samantha Ko - Barrack O'Karma
Zoie Tam - Barrack O'Karma
Mimi Kung - Finding Her Voice
Toby Chan - Wonder Women
Jinny Ng - Wonder Women
Maggie Yiu - Wonder Women

Best Supporting Actor
Kalok Chow - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Stanley Cheung - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Ricco Ng - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Tsui Wing - The Ghetto-Fabulous Lady
Benz Hui - The Defected
Oscar Leung - The Defected
Max Cheung - The Defected
Ram Chiang - Big White Duel
Matthew Ho - Big White Duel
John Chiang - Big White Duel
Willie Wai - Big White Duel
William Chak - As Time Goes By
James Ng - My Life as Loan Shark
Bob Cheung - Barrack O'Karma
Jazz Lam - Barrack O'Karma
Lau Kong - Barrack O'Karma
Luk Wing Kuen - Barrack O'Karma
Savio Tsang - Finding Her Voice
Eric Li - The Man Who Kills Troubles
Stephen Wong - The Man Who Kills Troubles
Tony Hung - Wonder Women
Brian Tse - Handmaidens United

Most Improved Actress
Kelly Cheung, Kamen Kong, Iris Tam, Gloria Tang, Roxanne Tong

Most Improved Actor
Owen Cheung, Kalok Chow, Joey Law, Karl Ting, Telford Wong

Favourite TV Partnership
Jimmy Au, Kim Li - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Kalok Chow, Ricco Ng - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Mandy Lam, Jack Hui - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Owen Cheung, Stanley Cheung - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Benjamin Yuen, Oscar Leung - The Defected
Kenneth Ma, Roger Kwok - Big White Duel
Joel Chan, Selena Li - Barrack O'Karma
Steve Lee, Helen Tam - The Ahistoric Grandpa Cooking Show
Luk Ho Ming, Crystal Fung, Louisa Mak - Young and Restless
Maria Cordero, Luk Ho Ming - Good Cheap Eats 8
Mayanne Mak, Edmond Hui, Joey Thye, Eric Tang - Cantoxicating
Benjamin Yuen, Matt Yeung - All Work No Pay Holidays
Judy Kwong, Kandy Wong, Maggie Wong - Yummy Hunters
Tony Hung, Priscilla Wong - Here We Go Again
Dodo Cheng, Fama - Dodo Midnight Quests

Best Series
Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
I Bet Your Pardon
My Ghetto-Fabulous Lady
The Defected
My Commissioned Lover
Big White Duel
As Time Goes By
Our Unwinding Ethos
Justice Bao: The First Year
Girlie Days
My Life as Loan Shark
Barrack O'Karma
Finding Her Voice
The Man Who Kills Troubles
Wonder Women
Handmaidens United

Best Theme Song
The Legend of Dugu - "Walk Alone" (Shiga Lin)
The Legend of Hao Lan - "Heart is Unwilling" (Hana Kuk)
I Bet Your Pardon - "Hollywood Has a Big Con Artist" (Jackson Wang)
The Ghetto-Fabulous Lady - "Secretly Love Me" (Jinny Ng), "Have Me, Will Have You" (Adia Chan)
The Defected - "Stonehearted" (Fred Cheng), "Steel Has Tears" (Hana Kuk), "I Remember" (Jinny Ng)
Come Home Love: Lo and Behold - "Happy Courier" (Lo and Behold Cast)
The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber - "Gain and Lose with a Smile" (Brian Tse), "You are the World" (Hana Kuk)
My Commissioned Lover - "Embrace Lover" (Hubert Wu)
The Family - "Lucky One" (Johnny Ku)
Big White Duel - "Choose Kindness" (Fred Cheng), "Begin Without You" (Hana Kuk), "Can You Hear" (Kayee Tam)
As Time Goes By - "Having You is Good" (Kayee Tam, Auston Lam, Alvin Ng)
Our Unwinding Ethos - "Legend" (Auston Lam)
Justice Bao: The First Year - "Bright Moon" (Joey Yung)
Girlie Days - "Youthful Times" (Daniel Chau), "Wind and Rain from that Day" (Andy Ho)
My Life as Loan Shark - "Neighbourhood Finance Man" (James Ng), "Priceless Love" (Jinny Ng)
Barrack O'Karma - "Take Care Tonight" (Kayee Tam), "Take Care Tonight"(Mandarin) (Vivian Koo)
Finding Her Voice - "Santa Lucia" (Bear Music Children's Choir), "I Will Miss Him" (Stephanie Ho), "You Are More Important Than Me" (Hugo Ng)
The Man Who Kills Troubles - "Heaven Knows" (Andy Leung, On Chan), "Cannot Afford Love" (Vincent Wong)
Legend of the Phoenix - "Flying Against the Light" (Hana Kuk)
Wonder Women - "Marry to Love" (Miriam Yeung), "Allow Love to Fly High" (Pakho Chau), "Break Up Before Dawn" (Joey Thye), "Every Love is Wrong" (Jinny Ng)
Queen Dugu - "I am Strong for Me" (Vivian Koo)
Handmaidens United - "Want to be Brave Once" (Kayee Tam)

Best Host
Steve Lee, Helen Tam - The Ahistoric Grandpa Cooking Show
Wu Fung, Sharon Chan, Fred Cheng, Kayee Tam - Cantopop at 50
Liza Wang, Sammy Leung, William So, Dickson Yu - Liza's Online
Maria Cordero, Luk Ho Ming - Good Cheap Eats
Chris Lai - A Chef and a Gentleman
Judy Kwong, Kandy Wong, Maggie Wong - Yummy Hunters
Tony Hung, Priscilla Wong - Here We Go Again
Dodo Cheng, Fama - Dodo Midnight Quests
Janis Chan - Faraway Brides
Sammy Leung, Mayanne Mak, Jinny Ng, Karl Ting - Sammy On the Go

Best Non-Drama Programme
Scoop, Cantopop at 50, Own Sweet Home, Fun Abroad, Young and Restless, eSports Central, The Ahistoric Grandpa Cooking Show, Dancing for a Reason, Feng Shui for the New Year, A Blissful Life, Cantoxicating, Homegrown Flavours, Big Big Bay, Baby Matters, Liza's Online, Midlife Classes, Good Cheap Eats, Think You Know Kansai?, Mom No Easy, Wishful Living, I Go To School By Bike, Hong Kong All You Get, Hana Kuk Special, Mom on the Run, A Chef and a Gentleman, Bazaar Carnivals, Fluffie Sarena, Do Did Eat, Holland Fun, All Work No Pay Holidays, Sir Ben Prop. Guide, Yummy Hunters, 12 Summers, Inter Inter Intergen, All Things Girl, Aged Not Old, The Guy Next Door, Here We Go Again, Faraway Brides, Inspiring Journeys, Portuguese Around the World, Do Do Midnight Quests, Sammy on the Go, JSG Awards Presentation 2018, Miss Chinese International Pageant 2019, Community Chest Charity Show 2019, Sing Hong Kong Concert, Miss Hong Kong Pageant 2019, TVB 52nd Anniversary Gala, Tung Wah Charity Gala 2019

TVB Calendar 2019

January: The Offliners


February: The Ghetto-Fabulous Lady


March: The Defected


April: Big White Duel


June: Our Unwinding Ethos


August: Finding Her Voice


October: Airport Security Unit


December: Killer

TVB Inventory Levels 2018

The number of series outstanding for each artist
As of December 27, 2018

Legend
Purple = Ancient
Green = Pre-modern
Yellow = Modern
Blue = Professional/Crime
White = Unconfirmed
Italics = Shaw Brothers production

Predictions for TVB Anniversary Awards 2018

Here are my thoughts and picks for TVB Anniversary Awards 2018. The full nomination list is here.

Best Actor


Prediction: Dicky Cheung (The Learning Curve of a Warlord)
My Pick: Dicky Cheung (The Learning Curve of a Warlord)

Yes, The Learning Curve of a Warlord hasn't aired yet. No, it doesn't matter because (1) fans will vote for who they want anyways, and (2) it's adorable that you think TVB hasn't already decided who will win. I think TVB will pull a Dayo here and give this to Dicky because there really isn't much choice. They completely snubbed Steven Ma from a nomination and Benjamin Yuen - the other hot favourite - was nominated for Another Era instead of Stealing Seconds (his winning role in Malaysia and Singapore).


Best Actress


Prediction: Mandy Wong (Threesome)
My Pick: Mandy Wong (Threesome)

Can Mandy pull a three-peat? Yes. I'm not convinced that TVB will give it to Alice Chan over Mandy, and Ali Lee is not ready for the TV Queen mantle. Plus, Mandy truly is deserving of Best Actress for an extraordinary performance in Threesome. Selena Li is a dark horse candidate and did well in Succession War, but she will have to wait at least one more year.


Favourite Male Character


Prediction: Benjamin Yuen (Stealing Seconds)
My Pick: Ruco Chan (Succession War)

The fact that Benjamin was nominated for Stealing Seconds in this category, but not in Best Actor, is all the more telling that TVB wants to give him this award and not Best Actor. If he wins, Benjamin will join Kenneth Ma and Raymond Lam as two-time winners of this award and zero-time winners of Best Actor.


Favourite Female Character


Prediction: Ali Lee (Who Wants a Baby?)
My Pick: Mandy Wong (Threesome)

Ali's character was undeniably well-liked by audiences and this would be an appropriate award for her. Mandy could take home this award too, but there isn't much marginal benefit of giving her another award on top of three TV Queen titles. Unfortunately for Alice Chan, her drama aired too early and her momentum appears to have faded.


Best Supporting Actor


Prediction: Tsui Wing (Who Wants a Baby?)
My Pick: Jonathan Cheung (Succession War)

This category is usually a toss-up among several deserving candidates. There hasn't been a two-time winner in this category, so that could knock out past winners (Louis Yuen, Willie Wai, Joel Chan, Raymond Cho). I don't really know who to pick, but if it's anyone's "turn", it should be Tsui Wing. He's been a solid supporting actor for years and it would be great if he got some recognition.


Best Supporting Actress


Prediction: Mandy Lam (Come Home Love: Lo and Behold)
My Pick: Stephanie Ho (Succession War)

If Best Supporting Actor was a struggle for me to make a pick, I'm just throwing darts for Best Supporting Actress. Mandy was a favourite last year and even made it to the top five. The competition is virtually non-existent this year, so this is her best chance to win.


Most Improved Actor


Prediction: Matthew Ho
My Pick: Matthew Ho

Matthew is riding high from his popularity from the recently aired Life on the Line. I think he will edge out Owen Cheung, who didn't have any dramas air this year.


Most Improved Actress


Prediction: Roxanne Tong
My Pick: Gloria Tang

This award should be renamed "Most Improved from Absolute Crap" for this group of nominees. Roxanne is the most established of the bunch. TVB wants to give this to Louisa Mak so badly (they even gave her a Best Actress nomination), but she's only been acting since last year, so it seems too soon to give it her. I still remember the absolutely unwatchable debut of Gloria Tang in The Ultimate Addiction. She has come a long way since then and would actually fit the definition of "Most Improved".


Favourite TV Partnership


Prediction: Matthew Ho, Joey Law, Arnold Kwok, Bob Cheung (Life on the Line)
My Pick: Edwin Siu and Raymond Cho (Two Men in a Kitchen).

My second pick to win would be Edwin and Raymond, but they already won last year and there isn't any reason why TVB needs to give a pork award to either of them. The Life on the Line "F4" was well-liked by audiences and this would give TVB a chance to promote them, like the former "S4".


Best Series


Prediction: Deep in the Realm of Conscience
My Pick: Succession War

Deep in the Realm of Conscience tied with Life on the Line for highest viewership among TVB productions, but Deep was the bigger production with the bigger cast and a "golden" producer. I think Succession War was one of the best written series this year, but it got poor ratings, so it will hardly even be considered for Best Series.


Best Theme Song


Prediction: A Hana Kuk song
My Pick: "Unique" by Miriam Yeung (Threesome)

Hana Kuk is the new Jinny Ng, so she will probably win, but I honestly can't tell which song is which. Miriam Yeung's song for Threesome was my favourite because, well, she's Miriam. And there's no denying that she is leagues above those Voice "singers". Nancy Wu's theme song for Deep in the Realm of Conscience was also on repeat a lot for me. I was impressed by how Nancy was able to carry the power of the song, considering how she's not even a singer.

TVB Anniversary Awards 2018 - Nomination List

The nomination list for TVB Anniversary Awards 2018, which will take place on December 16.

I will post my thoughts and reactions about the nomination list later. In the meantime, feel free to left a comment with your thoughts below!

Best Actor
Lau Kong - The Forgotten Valley
Raymond Wong - Apple-colada
Wayne Lai - Daddy Cool
Carlos Chan - Daddy Cool
Kenneth Ma - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Edwin Siu - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Ruco Chan - Succession War
Chris Lai - Who Wants a Baby?
Shaun Tam - The Stunt
Roger Kwok - Another Era
Benjamin Yuen - Another Era
Pakho Chau - Another Era
Joe Ma - Life on the Line
Matthew Ho - Life on the Line
Ben Wong - OMG, Your Honour
Eddie Kwan - OMG, Your Honour
Vincent Wong - Fist Fight
Matt Yeung - Fist Fight
Dicky Cheung - The Learning Curve of a Warlord
Tony Hung - The Learning Curve of a Warlord

Best Actress
Louisa So - The Forgotten Valley
Grace Chan - The Forgotten Valley
Mandy Wong - Threesome
Eliza Sam - Apple-colada
Rosina Lam - Daddy Cool
Natalie Tong - Stealing Seconds
Nancy Wu - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Alice Chan - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Selena Li - Succession War
Elaine Yiu - Succession War
Ali Lee - Who Wants a Baby?
Tavia Yeung - Another Era
Niki Chow - Another Era
Moon Lau - Life on the Line
Grace Wong - OMG, Your Honour
Louisa Mak - OMG, Your Honour
Rebecca Zhu - Fist Fight
Sisley Choi - The Learning Curve of a Warlord

Favourite Male Character
Wayne Lai - Daddy Cool
Carlos Chan - Daddy Cool
Benjamin Yuen - Stealing Seconds
Kenneth Ma - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Edwin Siu - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Ruco Chan - Succession War
Shaun Tam - Succession War
Chris Lai - Who Wants a Baby?
Pakho Chau - Another Era
Joe Ma - Life on the Line
Matthew Ho - Life on the Line
Ben Wong - OMG, Your Honour
Eddie Kwan - OMG, Your Honour
Oscar Leung - OMG, Your Honour
Hugo Wong - OMG, Your Honour
Vincent Wong - Fist Fight
Matt Yeung - Fist Fight
Hubert Wu - Wife Interrupted
Dicky Cheung - The Learning Curve of a Warlord
Tony Hung - The Learning Curve of a Warlord

Favourite Female Character
Joyce Tang - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Rebecca Zhu - The Forgotten Valley
Mandy Wong - Threesome
Grace Chan - Birth of a Hero
Crystal Fung - Apple-colada
Rosina Lam - Daddy Cool
Natalie Tong - Stealing Seconds
Nancy Wu - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Alice Chan - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Selena Li - Succession War
Elaine Yiu - Succession War
Ali Lee - Who Wants a Baby?
Samantha Ko - Who Wants a Baby?
Gloria Tang - Another Era
Kelly Cheung - Life on the Line
Grace Wong - OMG, Your Honour
Kamen Kong - Fist Fight
Moon Lau - Wife Interrupted
Sisley Choi - The Learning Curve of a Warlord

Best Supporting Actor
Jimmy Au - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Louis Yuen - The Forgotten Valley
John Chiang - Birth of a Hero
Jazz Lam - Apple-colada
Andrew Yuen - Apple-colada
Willie Wai - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Savio Tsang - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Joel Chan - Succession War
Jonathan Cheung - Succession War
Tsui Wing - Who Wants a Baby?
Wu Fung - Another Era
Karl Ting - Another Era
Joey Law - Life on the Line
Arnold Kwok - Life on the Line
Bob Cheung - Life on the Line
Oscar Leung - OMG, Your Honour
Hugo Wong - OMG, Your Honour
Jackson Lai - OMG, Your Honour
Telford Wong - Wife Interrupted
Raymond Cho - The Learning Curve of a Warlord

Best Supporting Actress
Joyce Tang - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Mandy Lam - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Zoie Tam - The Forgotten Valley
Crystal Fung - Apple-colada
Kamen Kong - Apple-colada
Elvina Kong - Daddy Cool
Jacqueline Wong - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Susan Tse - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Akina Hong - Deep in the Realm of Conscience
Stephanie Ho - Succession War
Angelina Lo - Who Wants a Baby?
Samantha Ko - Who Wants a Baby?
Gloria Tang - Another Era
Jeannie Chan - Life on the Line
Kelly Cheung - Life on the Line
Pinky Cheung - Life on the Line
Kirby Lam - OMG, Your Honour
Tiffany Lau - Fist Fight
Toby Chan - Fist Fight
Vivien Yeo - The Learning Curve of a Warlord

Most Improved Actor
Owen Cheung, Matthew Ho, Luk Ho Ming, Karl Ting, Hubert Wu

Most Improved Actress
Kelly Cheung, Crystal Fung, Louisa Mak, Gloria Tang, Roxanne Tong

Favourite TV Partnership
Jimmy Au, Kim Li - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Mandy Lam, Jack Hui - Come Home Love: Lo and Behold
Benjamin Yuen, Pakho Chau, Gloria Tang - Another Era
Matthew Ho, Joey Law, Arnold Kwok, Bob Cheung - Life on the Line
Bob Lam, Oscar Leung, Ricky Fan, Jonathan Wong, Penny Chan - Big Boys Club
Nancy Sit, Michael Lai, Sharon Chan, Jack Wu - Cantopop at 50
Luk Ho Ming, Crystal Fung, Louisa Mak - Young and Restless
Maria Cordero, Luk Ho Ming - Good Cheap Eats 7
Sisley Choi, Dickson Yu - Fantastic Myanmar
Edwin Siu, Raymond Cho - Two Men in a Kitchen

Best Series
All TVB produced series that aired this year from The Forgotten Valley to The Learning Curve of a Warlord, including Come Hone Love: Lo and Behold, Threesome, and Wife Interrupted. It does not include Flying Tiger or Mainland productions.

Best Theme Song
Come Home Love: Lo and Behold - "In My Heart" (Jacqueline Wong)
The Forgotten Valley - "Half the Sky" (Bianca Wu)
Watch Out Boss - "Finding a Reason to Leave You" (Jinny Ng)
Threesome - "Unique" (Miriam Yeung)
Birth of a Hero - "Love is Endless" (Auston Lam)
Apple-colada - "Wandering Adventures With You" (Kayee Tam)
Daddy Cool - "Defying Heaven" (Fred Cheng)
Stealing Seconds - "Most Unforgettable Day" (Hubert Wu), "Back to the Past" (Hana Kuk)
The Taxorcist Sidequel - "Flower Forest" (Kayee Tam), "Predestined" (Yeung Chiu Hoi)
Fire of Eternal Love - "Listen to Snow Weep" (Hana Kuk)
Deep in the Realm of Conscience - "No Regrets, No Qualms" (Nancy Wu), "Moths Pounce on Fire" (Hana Kuk), "Bright Moon and Ocean" (Steven Ma/Nancy Wu)
Cooking Beauties - "You are Forever Young" (Jessica Law)
Succession War - "Regretful Separation" (Ruco Chan)
Who Wants a Baby? - "Having You" (Kayee Tam)
No Love Left in Tainan - "Story that Has Not Begun" (Joey Thye)
Story of Yanxi Palace - "Impermanent Year" (Jinny Ng)
The Stunt - "Belief" (Fred Cheng), "Lonely" (Kayee Tam)
The Secret Dragon in the Abyss - "No Regrets in This Life" (Hubert Wu)
Another Era - "Utopia" (Hubert Wu), "Only Want to Be With You Again" (Hana Kuk), "Why Did You Betray Me" (Jinny Ng)
Life on the Line - "Fearless Shoulder" (Fred Cheng), "Never Spoken About" (Hana Kuk), "WIshing We Live Forever" (Hana Kuk)
OMG, Your Honour - "Rationality and Sensibility" (Hubert Wu), "Naive in Love" (Grace Wong), "Nocturne Chapter 17" (Jonathan Wong)
Fist Fight - "Extraordinary" (Vincent Wong), "Don't Be Afraid" (Hana Kuk)
Wife Interrupted - "Take Risk for Love" (Hubert Wu), "Too Hard to Begin" (Hubert Wu), "Repeat Love Once" (Alvin Ng)
The Learning Curve of a Warlord - "Utterly Fearless" (Dicky Cheung), "Honeymoon" (Dicky Cheung)

Best Host
Luk Ho Ming, Crystal Fung, Louisa Mak - Young and Restless
Jarvis Chow - Think You Know Tokyo?
Dodo Cheng, Fama - Do Did Eat
Maria Cordero, Luk Ho Ming - Good Cheap Eats 7
Edwin Siu, Bob Lam, Owen Cheung - Cooking Beauties
Edwin Siu, Raymond Cho - Two Men in a Kitchen
Sammy Leung, Mayanne Mak, Jinny Ng, Karl Ting - Sammy On The Go
Gigi Wong - Eating Well with Madam Wong 4
Janis Chan - Faraway Brides 2
Kristal Tin - Pretty Forty

Best Non-Drama Programme
Sidewalk Scientist, Fun Abroad, Cantopop at 50, Young and Restless, CNY Shopping List, Better Be Right, Miss Chinese International Pageant 2018, Feng Shui for the New Year, New Year is a Game, Through Thick and Thin, Midnight Banquets, Big Big Beauty, Homegrown Flavours, Think You Know Tokyo?, Do Did Eat, Leo Ku Special, Battle for the Exorcist's Meter, Nano Abode, The Taxorcist Sidequel, Planet Earth II, Homemade Therapy, Good Cheap Eats 7, Fantastic Myanmar, Cooking Beauties, Once Upon a Time in Tiny Hong Kong, A Father's Confession, Sir Ben Prop Guide, Scene of the Accident, Bazaar Carnivals 4, What's Up Taipei?, Big Big Channel 1st Anniversary All Star Gala, Two Men in a Kitchen, No Love Left in Tainan, Sammy On The Go, Miss Hong Kong Pageant 2018, Love Travel With High Speed Rail, Eating Well with Madam Wong 4, Neighborhood Gourmet 5, Nancy & Friends at 60, Big Big Bay, Story of Yanxi Palace Special, Faraway Brides 2, Du Du Shoryudo, Eat Well Mom, The X Factor of Joy, TVB Anniversary Gala, Pretty Forty, Roaming Siblings, Age No More

TVB Sales Presentation 2019 - Series Briefs

Wonder Women


Miriam Yeung is a fashionable “multi-functional” housewife. She lives happily with her husband. Raymond Wong. She has two good friends: the career-oriented Alice Chan and the beautiful, wealthy wife Rebecca Zhu. The three ladies have very different views on love. Raymond, who is focused in building his career, leaves for China after he is caught cheating. Divorced, Miriam raises her son on her own. She rents out part of her apartment to the tall, handsome and rich Pakho Chau. Their squabbles with each other generate a lot of laughter. Women may wither because of one man's heartlessness, but can bloom again because of another man's affection. Pakho helps Miriam establish her career. Just as she regains her self-confidence, Raymond returns, seeking to remarry. See who Miriam loves the most!

Interest level: 5/5. Do I really need to explain why? The trailer gives me the feeling of a classic Miriam movie. Can’t wait to see Miriam, Raymond and Benz Hui reunited on-screen. Not thrilled to see Jinny Ng in this, but hopefully I can just forward her scenes. AND SHE BETTER NOT SING ANY SONGS FOR THIS SERIES WITH MIRIAM HERE!


The Defected


Police inspector Benjamin Yuen is shot in the head while trying to save a colleague. He miraculously survives and earns the nickname “Iron Detective”, but the residual effects are ongoing… The person who shot Benjamin turns out to be Philip Keung, an undercover agent for Chief Superintendent Kara Hui. Kara betrayed Philip due to a power struggle with another senior officer, Shek Sau. Enraged, Philip opened fire and accidentally injured Benjamin. The shot forced Philip to become a defector, but his aspirations as a police officer never changed. Benjamin becomes a pawn in the power struggle. Luckily, he receives help from Chief Superintendent Ben Wong and vows to end the power struggle. Philip sacrifices himself to obtain evidence of Kara’s misconduct as an ultimate penance to Benjamin. Benjamin angrily accuses Kara, but the judge rules that he only had himself to blame. Defying the authority of the police force, Benjamin appeals and finally wins justice! Unfortunately, the residual effects put him on the verge of death, but he insists on investigating cases until the last day. Two “iron detectives” have no regrets about their lives.

Interest level: 4.5/5. Stellar cast and strong story. As long as TVB doesn't pull some Bullet Brain ridiculousness with being shot in the head.


Eighteen Years Later: Ultimate Confession


Eighteen years ago, on an ordinary night, a group of seven youths, including Shaun Tam, Joel Chan and Anthony Ho, get into a fight with local gangster Oman Lam. After brawling and chasing in the dark, Oman laid dead in a pool of blood. Having made a huge mistake, the group decided to bury the body and pray that no one will ever discover the secret.

Eighteen years later, they each have their own careers and lives. Suddenly, someone discovers Oman's body, digging up the secret from many years ago. CID Inspector Mandy Wong takes over the investigation and slowly unravels the truth. Mandy's father, Dominic Lam, turns out to be Oman's biological father. He vows to make the murderers bear the responsibility of their crimes. Shaun, Joel and Anthony face severe pressure. Facing the choice of their lives, will they take responsibility and admit their wrongdoing, or will they continue to hide the truth and fall into a deep, dark hole? When Shaun falls in love with Mandy, he gets caught in a complex web of relationships. Meanwhile, the real killer is hiding in the dark and eliminates all those that reveal the truth.

Interest level: 4/5. I like a nice whodunit series. 


Big White Duel


The cost of Hong Kong’s public health care system has increased exponentially year after year. It is like a ticking bomb that can explode at any time. Roger Kwok, the vice president of the leading public hospital, is determined to push for health care reform and conduct "major surgery" on the system. But his plan is questioned by his colleague, genius doctor Kenneth Ma. Kenneth is worried that if health care reform is implemented, there will be people who die because they cannot afford the medical costs. Although their differing philosophies spark a series of conflicts, they both have a benevolent heart of a doctor who wants to save lives. Along with a group of elite medical professionals, they care for each patient at the hospital, creating moving stories with their benevolent hearts and skillful execution.

Interest level: 4/5. The premise is interesting, but will need to see if TVB can pull off thoughtful commentary on health care policy.


Agent C9


After an explosion at the Hong Kong branch of a secret organization, Agent C9 (Samantha Ko) loses contact with headquarters. She marries an honest vegetable vendor, Kenneth Ma. Every day, she is busy taking care of Kenneth's troublesome, but warm family members. She enjoys four years of an ordinary, blissful life as a housewife. Unexpectedly, her former partner, Agent B3, appears and asks her to investigate the reason for the explosion at the branch, as well as to recover a nerve agent that went missing after the explosion.

Samantha begins a double-life as a housewife and a secret agent. Kenneth inadvertently learns about Samantha's identity and cannot accept it in the moment. During the cooling-off period, Kenneth realizes his feelings for Samantha and genuinely accepts her. Soon, Samantha discovers that B3 was actually the traitor that blew up the branch and is using her to find the nerve agent in order to sell it for profit. Samantha and Kenneth, who has no skills as a secret agent, work together as a couple with one heart against B3 to ensure world peace!

Interest level: 2/5. Seems like a cute drama. Samantha Ko as the leading lady gives me pause. Plot-wise, halfway through reading the synopsis, I already guessed that B3 would be the culprit in the explosion. Can TVB at least make the synopsis not so predictable?


Golden Building


By chance, Joel Chan became the security guard for Golden Building. In this building with an old physical appearance, people of all kinds, and widely-known ghost rumours, Joel encounters a cool and beautiful air stewardess, Selena Li. He is shocked to see Selena, who looks exactly like the qipao-wearing girl in his dreams! He naturally wants to get closer to Selena and learn about about his connection to her. Their relationship gradually grows.

At the same time, there are many stories happening within the building, like the weird young woman who pushes around a sealed stroller, the single mother whose son goes mysterious missing, the pretty female accountant whose sexual fortunes take a turn, the male homebody who is addicted to peeping on teenage girls, and the odd bookstore owner. Each seems unable to escape their own fate. Meanwhile, strange things keep occurring. As Joel investigates, he finds out that he and Selena did not come to this building coincidentally. They are inextricably linked to the building itself. Joel and Selena's complicated relationship today can be traced back to a love affair that happened in the building in the 1960s. Destiny guided Joel to the Golden Building...

Interest level: 1/5. Not into the supernatural genre. 


Wife Interrupted


This is a story about an ordinary person who will go through fire and water to save his beloved wife. Hubert Wu is a homebody who follows a regular routine. Every day, he goes to work, then goes home. Some people would think it is dry and dull, but Hubert and his wife, Moon Lau, are content.

On Christmas Eve, Hubert and Moon go shopping. When they step into the mall, they are kidnapped by Santa Claus and his elves! They accuse Hubert of embezzling money from them and demands that he return the money within 72 hours, or else they will kill Moon. Except Hubert did not take the money. He is scared. Who are these people and what is happening? He must find out before the deadline. The only clue he has is that the Santa Claus seems to have a connection with a youth hostel that Hubert once stayed at. Starting with his old friends from the hostel, Hubert embarks on a journey to save his wife!

Interest level: 1/5. Lame holiday special.


Neighbourhood Fortune Man


Loan-shark king Kent Chang has always used underworld tactics to run his loan-shark business and employs improper methods to collect debts. Although his wife Maggie Siu has urged him to wash his hands of the business, he is unrepentant. As Kent operates his business and collects debts, he attracts the attention of detective Chris Lai. Chris, who is righteous and abhors evil, vows to fight against evil forces.

One day, lightning strikes down from the sky and Kent is moved by the heavens. Since then, he has laid down the butcher's knife and used his fortune to give back to the community. The "Neighbourhood Fortune Man" hands out money and love. But it is hard to be a good person. Can a super bad guy suddenly turn good? This impossible task inevitably concerns the finances and grievances of the underworld and affects people from the both sides of the law, drawing the police and Interpol to participate in the fight against crime.

Interest level: 2/5. Could be good for a few laughs, but the producer isn't even trying here. The plot sounds exactly the same as his previous drama, My Dangerous Mafia Retirement Plan. Have never been particularly impressed with Kent's acting. 


Justice Bao: The First Year


During the reign of Emperor Renzong of Song, things appear to be peaceful, but there are actually many hidden internal and external threats. The Emperor appoints Shaun Tam as the magistrate of Kaifeng and grants him the power to execute someone before reporting it. Shaun and his adviser (Raymond Cho), bodyguard (Owen Cheung) and four bailiffs oversee Kaifeng and fight against corrupt officials. But the tyrannical and corrupt Henry Li creates many roadblocks to their investigations. The fierce Nancy Wu is an eloquent speaker and receives training from Raymond to become the first female lawyer of the Song Dynasty. Maid Elaine Yiu, the daughter of a coroner, is skilled in autopsies and promoted by Shaun to be Kaifeng's coroner. The two women help the seven men see through and solve strange cases.

Shaun and Elaine go through life and death situations together and have a deep relationship. Just before they get married, Shaun discovers that Elaine's real identity is a spy from the Liao Empire and is hiding a huge conspiracy. Nancy's father, KK Cheung, reveals that the Emperor is not the rightful emperor and plans to rebel! Shaun faces a very difficult problem. If the Emperor is not of imperial descent, the Song Dynasty will fall into KK's hands and become a puppet of the Liao Empire. If the Emperor is deposed, the country will lose a virtuous monarch and is bound to face disaster. Will Shaun twist the truth for the sake of society? Or will he enter the tiger's den to investigate the truth and reveal whether the rumour about the Emperor's ancestry is true or false?

Interest level: 4/5. The detective and historical aspects should be good. This is also the only ancient drama in the pipeline. 


The Solvers


A young Vincent Wong witnessed his father beat his mother to death. He grabbed a knife and avenged her. Ever since then, he followed members of the Chinese-Australian triad, learning to use horrific tactics to solve problems that even the triads couldn't resolve and becoming a fixer. During one mission, Vincent is accused of being a traitor. He fakes his own death and escapes from Australia. Travelling to Hong Kong, he becomes a high school gym teacher. He changes his name and hopes to start a new life where he can spend simple, happy days in the pure school environment. But he encounters a music teacher, Natalie Tong, who is the daughter of a triad leader. When Natalie's father retires from the triads, there is a period of unrest and Natalie is repeatedly in danger. In order to protect her, Vincent once again connects with the triads. At the same time, Vincent meets OCTB Senior Inspector Jonathan Cheung. Unexpectedly, this honourable officer ultimately goes down the path of a black cop. Who is white and who is black? In Vincent and Jonathan's ultimate faceoff, who will resolve who?

Interest level: 4.5/5. This dark synopsis practically has me salivating already. For some reason, Vincent in the trailer reminds me of Stone Sir (Felix Wong) in Gun Metal Grey. Hoping that this will be a similarly dark thriller. Glad to see Jonathan Cheung being given a meaty role. I think he is one of the most underrated young actors in TVB.


Finding Her Voice


It is said that the memory of sound is not as good as the memory of sight or touch. But for Principal Chung King Fei, the sound of a soprano from forty years ago still feels new and is always on his mind. Because of this voice, he decides to return to Hong Kong from Canada by himself, hoping to reunite with his former students.

Back then, his elementary school in Ngau Tau Kok defeated many competitors to win first place at a music competition. It was not only a meaningful award for Chung King Fei's career, but also, for some students, the only honour that they got in their lives. In the blink of an eye, the children have become average middle-aged adults. They have gone their separate ways and have been working hard for their livelihoods, giving up on their interest for singing a long time ago. With the hard work of Chung King Fei's divorced granddaughter Jacqueline Wong, her investigator friend Owen Cheung, the enthusiastic school senior Hugo Ng and his capable but always full of suspicion wife Mimi Kung, they find the former members of the choir one by one - Joe Cheng, Savio Tsang, Jimmy Au, Ram Chiang, Willie Wai and Sam Tsang. They revive the choir and shine on stage once again. Despite the brief reunion, everyone finds their second spring in life.

Interest level: 1/5. Kudos to TVB for finally putting their veteran actors in the spotlight, but it's not a very interesting drama.


Airport Security Unit


Hong Kong's Airport Security Unit (ASU) is a paramilitary special police unit. Their main responsibilities include maintaining public and aviation safety, anti-terrorism, VIP protection and crisis response. The story begins with a robbery at the airport. The suspect causes a serious traffic accident as he is escaping. Off-duty police officers Owen Cheung, Matt Yeung, Hugo Wong and Sisley Choi happen to be at the airport and join in helping people and apprehending the suspect. A year later, the four of them, from different police departments, apply to join the ASU at the same time.

Through four days and three nights of a grueling selection process, and twelve weeks of rigorous training under the strict guidance of Eddie Kwan, the four of them establish a deep friendship and successfully join the ASU. The four new members create sparks with the veteran members. The new exchange with the old and both learn from each other. While on-duty, they each encounter different stories and situations, seeing the joys and sorrows and lingering near life and death. They each reflect on their own life, leading to improvement and establishing their sense of purpose as a ASU member.

Interest level: 3.5/5. Another formulaic police procedural. TVB generally does a decent job of these, but it will all be very familiar. Okay picks for male leads, but Sisley Choi is just bad. 


Killer


Wayne Lai is targeted by someone, causing his wife to be killed and his daughter to become blind. The former "King of Assassins" becomes a downcast, low-end assassin. Meanwhile, Moses Chan is a legendary assassin with an unparalleled reputation. But behind the glory, he carries the burden of avenging his sworn brother.

Fate brings the high-end and the low-end assassin together. Wayne's enemy turns out to be the same person who killed Moses's sworn brother - Taiwanese triad leader Hung. The two of them join forces to kill Hung. Influential Hong Kong figure "Buddha" tries to recruit Moses but is rejected. He is outraged and repeatedly threatens Moses, eventually forcing Moses to kill him with the help of Wayne. One crisis has just been settled and another is raised. Several assassins have mysteriously been killed. The name "Assassin Hunter" is spreading like wildfire. The Assassin Hunter turns out to be intricately linked to Wayne. Moses vows to eliminate the Assassin Hunter, forcing him and Wayne into a life or death confrontation.

Interest level: 3/5. Very disappointed that this is a comedy. I don't think Wayne or Moses are the strongest in comedies and the topic seems unsuited as a comedy. Will still give it a try because of the cast and novel topic. 

TVB Sales Presentation 2019

Wonder Women


Big White Duel


The Defected


Killer


Eighteen Years Later: Ultimate Confession


The Solvers


Airport Security Unit


Agent C9


Neighbourhood Fortune Man


Finding Her Voice


Golden Building


Justice Bao: The First Year

Predictions for TVB Anniversary Awards 2017

Here are my predictions for the TVB Anniversary Awards, to be held on January 21. Full nomination list here.


Best Actor: Vincent Wong (Legal Mavericks)


Best Actress: Jessica Hsuan (The Unfair Lady)


Favourite Male Character: Kenneth Ma (The Exorcist's Meter)


Favourite Female Character: Moon Lau (The Exorcist's Meter)


Best Supporting Actress: Elaine Yiu (The Unholy Alliance)


Best Supporting Actor: Jimmy Au (The Unholy Alliance)


Most Improved Actor: Owen Cheung


Most Improved Actress: Jacqueline Wong


Favourite TV Partnership: Ruco Chan and Nancy Wu (The Unholy Alliance)


Best Series: Line Walker: The Prelude


Global Netizens' Favourite Series: Legal Mavericks

Best Theme Song: "Forget Myself" by Hana Kuk (Line Walker: The Prelude)

Best Host: Dodo Cheng, Fama, Kenneth Ma, Edwin Siu, Priscilla Wong (Dodo Goes Shopping 2)

Best Non-Drama Programme: Cantopop at 50